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Report To: General Government Committee
Date of Meeting: April 13, 2026 Report Number: PUB-003-26
Authored by: Mariano Perini, Director, Public Works
Submitted By: Lee-Ann Reck, Deputy CAO, Public Services
Reviewed By: Mary-Anne Dempster, CAO
By-law Number: Resolution Number:
File Number:
Report Subject: Marie Hubbard Commemoration
Recommendation:
1.That Report PUB-003-26, and any related delegations or communications items, be
received;
2.That Council approve $12,000 to support the renaming of the Soper Creek Trail in
honour of Marie Hubbard as a commemorative recognition of her service to the
community;
3.That Council defer the commemorative deck option (estimated at approximately
$120,000) and direct staff not to proceed with any further work unless Council provides
explicit direction through a future motion;
4.That Council direct the Deputy CAO, Finance and Technology to fund the approved
option(s) from the General Municipal Reserve Fund and identify which projects need to
be cancelled; and
5.That all interested parties be advised of Council’s decision.
GG-067-26
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Report PUB-003-26
Report Overview
This report serves as an updated response to Council’s direction provided at the September
8, 2025 meeting, as detailed in Report PUB-010-25, which Council approved, requesting
staff to report back on the feasibility of renaming Soper Creek Park or Soper Creek Trail and
the cost of constructing a commemorative deck at the Visual Arts Centre, in relation to the
commemoration of Marie Hubbard, in addition to the already approved commemorative
garden.
The document addresses Council’s request for staff to assess the feasibility of renaming
either Soper Creek Park or Soper Creek Trail, as well as the potential construction of a
commemorative deck behind the Visual Arts Centre in recognition of Marie Hubbard’s
contributions.
Staff have taken corporate policies into account, along with the local community context,
historical relevance, and associated costs, to develop a recommended approach that
respectfully honours Marie Hubbard, ensures alignment with municipal guidelines, and
promotes positive outcomes for the community.
1. Background
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Report PUB-003-26
2. Discussion
2.1 Staff considered renaming Soper Creek Park but decided it would disrupt its established
identity and is contrary to Council Policy CP‑21. Instead, they evaluated renaming the
Soper Creek Trail, which better aligns with CP-21 by naming a park amenity. The trail is
more flexible for signage and improvements, connects multiple areas, and includes
newer elements. Renaming the trail is less costly and operationally simpler than
renaming the park.
2.1 Staff recognise Council’s interest in building a rear deck at the Visual Arts Centre for
outdoor events. The deck, to be named in honour of Marie Hubbard, would require
external design and construction services. The initial estimated cost is $120,000;
reducing the deck’s size or finishes could lower expenses by up to $10,000. For the
project to move forward, Building, Heritage, and Conservation Authority permits will be
needed.
2.6 This initiative is not recommended at this time due to the prohibitive costs. Staff will
continue to work with Visual Arts Clarington (VAC) to pursue alternative funding
opportunities to complete the project.
3. Financial Considerations
3.1 The estimated cost associated with renaming the Soper Creek Trail, including the
design, fabrication, and installation of new signage, is approximately $12,000.
3.2 These costs are lower and more predictable than those associated with renaming Soper
Creek Park, which would require broader signage changes and greater community
transition considerations.
3.3 While staff are not recommending proceeding with the construction of a deck. If Council
wishes to proceed, budget of a $120,000 would need to be approved. Staff would
continue to work with VAC to find alternative funding opportunities to offset the cost of
construction.
3.2 As the 2026 Budget has been adopted, any projects approved through this report would
require funding from the General Municipal Reserve Fund or be referred to a future
budget. Council should be aware that approving funds for this commemoration may
impact the delivery of planned projects in 2027 and beyond, as reserve fund resources
are limited and may require reprioritization.
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Report PUB-003-26
4. Strategic Plan
4.1 The recommendations in this report support Council’s Strategic Plan objectives related
to community pride, recognition of local leadership, and support for arts, culture, and
heritage.
5. Climate Change
5.1 Composite decking offers environmental benefits by using recycled materials and
lasting longer than pressure-treated wood. Its durability lowers greenhouse gas
emissions through fewer replacements and less maintenance, making it a more
sustainable option.
6. Concurrence
This report has been reviewed by the Deputy CAO/Treasurer who concur with the
recommendations.
7. Conclusion
It is respectfully recommended that Council approve the recommendations within this
report.
Staff Contact: Mariano Perini, Director, Public Works, 905-623-3379 x2903 or
mperini@clarignton.net.
Attachments:
Not Applicable
Interested Parties:
List of Interested Parties available from Department.
1.Dionne Powlenzuk, Executive Director, Visual Arts Centre of Clarington