The District of Sechelt is updating its parks master plan, and wants to hear from residents.
“It’s a big update,” said Aaron Thompson, community planner. “We’re in the first stage right now, identifying what we have and what we’ve done and getting feedback on how to move forward.”
Parks supervisor Perry Schmitt said the district already has a sense of one of the big priorities for people. “Connecting trails, connecting neighbourhood to neighbourhood, more recreational trails, more nature-type parks… We have an aging population as well, so we’re going to see a lot more demand for user-friendly trails.”
Schmitt and Thompson say there are also some priorities from the previous plan that will carry over, such as the search for a site for a dedicated dog park and completing Mission Point Park as the waterfront properties become available.
One change in the decade since the last plan was completed is the attention to issues around climate change. Thomson said that will be reflected in the new plan.
“When we’re planning for beachfront parks, which take a lot of resources – especially financial resources if we’re trying to acquire land – that could be at risk from future oceanic flooding. Changes in climate patterns, like an abnormally dry summer, could put a strain on our parks.”
Another change has been in how governments get community feedback on initiatives like the parks master plan. Communications manager Connie Jordison said they’ll be making more use of social media tools to connect with people as well as the big open house set for Nov. 16 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Seaside Centre.
Schmitt said, when it comes to parks, residents are eager to offer ideas because they have a real sense of ownership.
“I’m expecting that we’re going to have a really good turnout,” he said.
