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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCSD-001-15 Clarington Community Services Report If this information is required in an alternate accessible format, please contact the Municipal Clerk at 905-623-3379 ext. 2102. Report To: General Purpose and Administration Committee Date of Meeting: February 23, 2015 Report Number: CSD-001-15 Resolution: GP4 - File Number: N/A By-law Number: Report Subject: Community Services — 2014 Year End Review Recommendations: 1. That Report CSD-001-15 be received for information. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 2 Report Overview The Community Services Department is responsible for planning, implementing and evaluating municipal recreation, leisure programs and facilities. This report provides Council with an overview of the activities associated with the Department's Recreation Services and Facilities Divisions during 2014. 1 . Recreation Services Division 1.1 There are many opportunities to participate in recreation activities in Clarington through a wide range of programs and services offered directly by the Municipality for residents of all ages. In addition, the number of volunteer and not-for-profit community organizations that provided valued and needed programming, activities and events continued to expand in 2014. 1.2 This section provides a snapshot of the activities offered throughout the year directly by the Recreation Services Division as well as provide an update on Community Development activities. 2. Aquatic Section 2.1 The Municipality operates three indoor aquatic facilities (Clarington Fitness Centre, Courtice Community Complex and Newcastle & District Recreation Complex). These facilities are operated seven days a week and offer a wide variety of both recreational swimming and aquatic instructional programs for the community. In addition, during the summer months there is also a seasonal outdoor pool (Orono Park Pool) which operates daily for recreational swimming. 2.2 On June 20, 2014, the Clarington Fitness Centre closed its doors to undergo an exciting renovation. 2.3 As a result of the temporary closure, the number of part-time aquatic staff employed was reduced to 60. Traditionally, the Municipality of Clarington aquatics division employs 70-75 part-time students (high school, college and university) and young adults. When the facility re-opens, the Municipality will be hiring and training additional staff to bring its staffing component back to full complement. 2.4 In addition to their numerous qualifications, new hires undergo extensive training (approximately 20 hours) at all indoor facilities prior to working their first shift. Staff are required to attend on-going training every three months. Pre-summer training includes an annual Lifeguard Competition, where staff are placed in teams and compete through various events, giving them an opportunity to showcase their lifeguarding and first aid skills. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 3 2.5 While only part-time, these positions offer students valuable experience in areas of customer service, working with the public, and dealing with difficult situations, including first aid and aquatic emergencies. 2.6 Instructional Aquatic Programs Community Services currently offers 70 hours of aquatic instructional programming each week between our three indoor pools, when at full complement. The Department offers a large variety of programming, including preschool/youth/adult swimming lessons, private and semi-private swimming lessons, lifesaving, leadership, first aid and aquafit. In 2014, 7,237 individuals participated in aquatic instructional programs. Aquatic Program Participant Statistics Pool 2012 2013 2014 123 Clarington Fitness Centre 622 672 Closed in June 2014 Courtice Community Complex 3,018 3,125 3,087 Newcastle & District 3,220 3,599 4,027 Recreation Complex Total Number of Users 6,860 7,396 7,237 2.7 Recreational Swimming The Department offers a wide variety of swims at its indoor facilities, including Adult, Lane, Adult/Lane, Public, and Public/Lane. Combined at all three indoor facilities, the Municipality offers an average of 102 hours of swims per week. To lessen the impact of the recent closure of the Clarington Fitness Centre and promote a smooth transition for all users (members and the general public), a number of changes were made to the existing pool schedules at the Courtice Community Complex and the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex. These included expansion of existing early morning swims and the addition of swims. Additions have been well received by users. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 4 Recreational swimming remains a popular activity for all ages. In 2014, over 92,000 people visited a pool for recreational swimming. While usage fluctuates year to year, and pool to pool, 2014 does show a small decrease in visits. Staff believe this is a reflection of two factors. Visits to the Orono Park Pool in summer months are largely dependent on weather. With cooler temperatures this past summer, the number of visits at Orono Park Pool decreased. Second, while many swimmers did choose to utilize the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex when the Clarington Fitness Centre closed for renovations, it would seem we did not capture all of the swimmers. Lack of transportation could have affected residents of Bowmanville, or those who did choose to travel to a neighbouring pool many not have swam as frequently as they had in the past, if they felt it was not as convenient. Staff believe these numbers will increase once the Clarington Fitness Centre reopens late spring/early summer. Recreational Swimming Participant Statistics Pool 2012 2013 2014 6,363 Clarington Fitness Centre 13,025 12,891 Closed in June 2014 Courtice Community 31,880 33,580 32,593 Complex Newcastle & District 42,745 45,547 49,623 Recreation Complex Orono Park Pool 4,017 4,481 3,683 Total Number of Users 91,667 96,499 92,262 2.8 School Board Swimming Lessons Since September 1997, the Community Services Department has offered a customized program for the Boards of Education within Clarington. The Municipality reserves one-hour time periods from mid-September to mid- June for school use. These time periods are programmed during the slower daytime hours, primarily afternoons. Participating schools designate swimming for certain grades, typically grades 3 and 4. The 2013-2014 school year saw nine local schools participate, serving a total of 523 children. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 5 Partnerships such as this target residents who may not normally be reached through municipal swimming lessons due to shift work, irregular schedules or financial limitations not allowing families to attend evening and weekend classes. This program increases children's exposure to water safety education and lifesaving skills. 3. Fitness Section 3.1 The Community Services Department is pleased to offer fitness programs and activities at various municipal recreation facilities. The main fitness facility in Clarington is located within the Courtice Community Complex. The Courtice Fitness Training Facility is a fully functional fitness and training facility. Satellite programs are also offered in the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex, Clarington Fitness Centre, South Courtice Arena and Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex. These fitness programs and activities are conducted by 9 certified Fitness Trainers and 22 certified Fitness Instructors. 3.2 Courtice Fitness Training Facility acility This facility is open weekdays, 6:00 AM-10:00 PM and weekends 8:00 AM-9:00 PM. The Courtice Fitness Training Facility has a large fitness training floor with a variety of cardio and strength equipment as well as a separate group fitness studio where we offer programs such as Spinning, Yoga and Zumba, among others. We offer one-on-one and small group personal training with certified personal trainers. The Clarington Run Club (housed at the Courtice Fitness Centre) has continued to expand since its inception in 2009. The club services approximately 100 runners a year. Some of our runners have gone on to run and train in races all over the world. 3.3 Newcastle & District Recreation Complex Group fitness classes are offered at the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex most weekday mornings, some evenings and Saturdays throughout the year. The group fitness program is available to members, registered participants and drop-ins. We are pleased to offer a range of programming to suit a variety of fitness needs. 2014 brought additional classes with varied styles to Newcastle & District Recreation Complex. Early evening yoga classes were added due to valuable customer feedback and good registration numbers. 3.4 Fitness Memberships Operating under the new membership model for a full calendar year allowed the public to fully embrace the changes and choose the membership type and term that best suited their fitness needs. The Fitness Plus option saw 600 active members in 2014. Fitness Basic added an additional 1,400 members. Revenues increased and surpassed the 2014 budget. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 6 Promotional memberships that allow Clarington residents to purchase 10 ticket passes during the months of June and December at a reduced rate saw an increase of 304 passes sold in 2014. These passes are a great opportunity for someone who has been thinking about trying something new to do so for a reduced cost and are very popular for students home over the holiday times of Christmas and summer. 3.5 Group Fitness Programs Group Fitness Programs are now offered at five recreation facilities, with the recent introduction of classes at Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex. The fitness division is now better able to meet the group fitness needs of participants throughout Clarington. Classes are scheduled 52 weeks out of the year and only break for holiday weekends and statutory holidays. Between the five facilities the fitness division runs up to 75 classes a week. Attendance is tracked several ways, including through our recreation software and Instructor headcounts to ensure that all classes are being utilized effectively. In 2014, we added post-natal programming at Newcastle & District Recreation Complex and continue to work with the local high schools to introduce Zumba, Teen Weight Training and Tabata (Interval Training) to the Physical Education classes. The Group Fitness program has approximately 400 active members and 10 ticket holders, utilizing the classes. 3.6 Membership Retention and Incentives Membership retention is tracked through recreation software and is encouraged by keeping equipment current and in good working order. The fitness division also offers monthly initiatives to keep members interested and motivated. The "Club 100" is a tracking program that monitors how often a member utilizes the Fitness Centre or attends one of the fitness classes at each facility. 2014 had over 50 people utilize the Fitness Centre at least 100 times within the year, with the top three patrons recording 333, 253 and 249 daily visits out of a possible 355 days respectively. For 2015, this retention program will focus on tracking minutes of activity as opposed to patron visits to the Fitness Centre. The program will be called Club 150. Current Fitness Centre members receive a reminder letter a month prior to their membership expiration date. This letter serves as reminder to renew and offers a month extension on the purchase of a Fitness Plus Annual membership. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 7 3.7 Grade 5 Action Pass The Municipality of Clarington has been a partner in the Durham Grade 5 Action Pass program, which was introduced in 2008 to all grade 5 students in Durham Region. The pass provides free drop-in access to students for public swimming, skating and drop-in basketball, and runs October 1St of the year the student is in grade 5 until August 31St of the following year. This pass was introduced to address the growing concern over the number of sedentary, obese children in our society. We continue to see a consistent uptake of this opportunity. Number of Grade 5 Action Passes Activated 2011/2012 2012/2013 2013/2014 2014/2015 YTD) 415 400 306 303 4. Recreation Section 4.1 The Community Services Department offers recreation programs and camps at various municipal recreation facilities, local schools and park locations throughout Clarington. The recreation programs service all age groups. Residents have options for registered programs, weekly drop-ins, pay-as-you-play and free programs. 4.2 The recreation section employs 98 part-time recreation staff annually. The staff team is primarily made up of high school, college and university students. All recreation staff take part in seasonal training, including health and safety, WHMIS, customer service, leadership development, program planning, accessibility and many other topics. 4.3 Many of the employees within the recreation section are first time job seekers. The Municipality has the opportunity to assist these young adults in gaining and developing life skills that will benefit them for years to come. 4.4 Summer Camps For a number of years, the Community Services Department has offered summer camp programs to our residents. These camps serve a wide range of children and youth from 4 - 16 years of age. In 2014, there were a variety of camp opportunities including; Leadership Camp, Counsellor in Training, Trip Camp, Sports Camp, Kinder Camp, Arts Camp, Eco Camp, Junior Chef Camp, French Camp, Dodgeball Camp, Soccer Camp, Lacrosse Camp, Hockey Camp and Outdoor Adventure Camp. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 8 Total Camp Registration (including extended care registrations) 2012 L 2013 2014 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 Registrants Camp programs continue to accommodate as many individuals in the Municipality as possible and the Department continues to revise and improve the camp program each year, achieving the underlying goal of providing quality programs at a reasonable fee. In the summer of 2014, Community Services employed a total of 37 students as camp supervisors and counsellors. They brought a wide range of knowledge, experience, leadership and enthusiasm to the team. All staff received over 40 hours of pre-camp training in areas such as leadership development, team building, recognizing child abuse, customer service, program planning, behaviour management, conflict resolution, risk management and administrative responsibilities. They were also required to be certified in the High 5 Principles of Healthy Child Development, Standard First Aid and CPR "C" as well as providing an acceptable Criminal Background Check. The Community Services partnered with the YMCA Early Years staff to continue in delivering a comprehensive Mobile Playground program to the community each week of the summer. YMCA Early Years and Community Services each committed one van and two staff. The Community Services staff travelled together, delivering playground programs for children 6 to 12 years of age. The YMCA staff worked together, providing games and activities for children 0 — 6 years of age. The drop-in style programs offered a less structured option to our day camps for participants and caregivers. The two "Funmobiles" each visited different locations every day and delivered games, activities and crafts appropriate to the participants. No pre-registration is required and often parents/caregivers would come to the park and socialize as their children participated. The Mobile Playgrounds rotated through many different parks Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 9 weekly during the summer which included: Tyrone Park, Orono Park, Guildwood Park, Pearce Farm Park, Roswell Park, Ina Brown Parkette, Solina Park and Haydon Hall. Attendance at most Mobile Playground locations was very positive, with over 2,000 people visiting the playgrounds throughout the summer. 4.5 Public Skating In 2014, Community Services had over 12,000 participants attend our public skating programs throughout the Municipality. Scheduling changes made in the fall of 2012, continue to have a positive impact on attendance numbers as we experienced an increase of over 1,400 people from the previous year. Public Skating Numbers by Year and Facility Facility 2012 2013 2014 South Courtice Arena 6,359 6,500 6,737 Garnet B. Rickard Complex 2,370 3,244 4,131 Darlington Sports Centre 1,242 1,475 1,793 Total 9,971 11,219 12,661 4.6 New Year's Eve 2014 For the first time the Community Services Department hosted a New Year's Eve Celebration on December 31, 2014, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex, which was open to all ages. Family friendly activities included public skating with a DJ, a balloon artist, face painting, children's arts and crafts, a photo booth and party favours. Recreational skating took place from 6:00 PM — 7:10 PM and 7:30 PM to 8:40 PM. Wristbands were sold in advance for a nominal fee of: $1.00 Youth (3-17 years) and Seniors (65 years +), $2.00 Adults, Children under 3 years, were free. This event was well received by all in attendance. Over 350 people attended this first-time event. For 2015, with budget approval, we hope to expand this event to a larger scale that could accommodate more people and with additional activities. 4.7 Summer Job Subsidy Program The Summer Jobs Service is a student job subsidy program created by the Province of Ontario and is facilitated in Durham Region through the John Howard Society. This is the ninth year that the Community Services Department has facilitated the program on behalf of the Municipality. The program provides up to Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 10 a $2.00 per hour wage subsidy to employers who employ students for the summer. This program is designed to help eligible youth prepare for employment, gain employment experience and stay in school. The Summer Jobs Service program is targeted to students aged 15 - 24 years (up to 29 for a person with a disability) who are currently attending school and plan to return to school in the fall. It should be noted that eligibility does not guarantee the employer will receive $2.00 per hour per student as the total funds are distributed by formula to the participating employers. The 2014 subsidy that the Municipality received was $16,916. Municipal departments do not budget for this revenue as the program is not guaranteed from year to year. The funds are recognized in a miscellaneous revenue account specific to each department. 4.8 Financial Assistance Program The Community Services Department is committed to increasing access and participation in recreation activities among Clarington residents. The Canadian Tire Jumpstart program was created by Canadian Tire Foundations for Families, and works in partnership with the Community Services Department. The program's goal is to provide financially disadvantaged children 4 to 18 years of age with the opportunity to participate in sports and recreation activities. 2014 saw a continued increase in the number of applicants and the amount of funding distributed to the residents of Clarington. Canadian Tire Jumpstart Statistics Year Number of Children Funding Distributed Assisted 2012 24 $3,245 2013 46 $7,129 2014 61 $9,588 In addition, the Municipality of Clarington directly offers two financial assistance programs: Financial Assistance Program (FAP) - Individuals or families currently receiving Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support Program Income Support can apply for financial assistance of up to a maximum of 50% of the program/membership registration fee. The chart below identifies the number of families and individuals who received financial assistance with registration fees over the past three years. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 11 Financial Assistance Program Statistics Year Number of Families Number of Individuals 2012 29 58 2013 21 44 2014 20 48 Membership Access Program (MAP) - The Membership Access Program strives to increase recreation opportunities for individuals with a permanent disability. Clarington residents who meet the age criteria for facility memberships and who have a permanent disability are eligible for the Membership Access Program which provides a reduced fee for facility memberships. As this program relates to a permanent disability, once an individual is confirmed eligible this program remains available to them indefinitely; there is no re-application process. Membership Access Program Statistics Year Number of Individuals 2012 7 2013 9 2014 5 5. Community Development Section 5.1 Community Development seeks to empower individuals and groups of people by providing them with the skills they need to effect change in their own communities. Everyone can take part in the issues that affect their lives. It starts from the principle that within any community there is a wealth of knowledge and experience which, if used in creative ways, can be channeled into collective action to achieve the communities' desired goals. 5.2 Through Community Development, we work alongside people in our community, build relationships with organizations and identify common concerns. We attempt to create opportunities for the community to learn new skills and, by enabling people to act together, help to foster social inclusion and equality. 5.3 Volunteers have a real impact in our community. They lead local boards, sports organizations and plan events. Volunteers are often the glue that holds a community together and make our community a better place. Local activities Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 12 bring people together to build a stronger community. They allow everyone to have a say in shaping the community. Through volunteering, everyone has a voice. 5.4 Staff are committed to enhancing the relationship with community partners by creating an environment of encouragement, facilitation and learning which would help to ensure that the volunteer experience is fulfilling and productive. 5.5 Based on feedback from our community partners, staff worked with local trainers to develop a series of community development events which would address some training needs and also provide a forum for networking and support among the volunteer community. The following workshops were offered to the volunteer sector in 2014: • Smart Serve Certification (2 workshops) • Getting Ready for the Ontario Not for Profit Corporations Act (ONCA) (webinar) • Accounting 101 for Not-for-Profits 5.6 Clarington Sport & Leisure Fair The Clarington Sport & Leisure Fair is an annual event, with a host of community displays offered free of charge to local community groups and sport and leisure providers. Community groups are offered display space to promote their programs and services and accept registrations for their various sport and leisure activities. The general public is invited to drop in and learn about the wealth of recreation and leisure opportunities available for them and their families, view demonstrations, participate in a free family skate as well as enjoy pizza courtesy of Boston Pizza — Bowmanville. The 2014 Clarington Sport & Leisure Fair was held on Sunday, March 2, 2014. In an effort to increase participation at the event, the event date was changed to a Sunday afternoon and coincided with an existing public skate which was offered at no charge for this day. The scheduling and marketing changes implemented for the 2014 event did substantially increase attendance, and we saw close to 500 people visit over 30 community displays throughout the afternoon. We are hoping to build on this success in 2015, with the Clarington Sport & Leisure Fair on Sunday, March 1, 2015, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex. 5.7 Clarington Sports Hall of Fame The Clarington Sports Hall of Fame is an opportunity to recognize the contributions made by local athletes, teams and builders to the sporting community in Clarington. The Clarington Sports Hall of Fame continues to be a memorable event for the local sports community, thanks to the support of Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 13 sponsors Ontario Power Generation and St. Mary's Cement. Nominations are received throughout the year; each spring the Selection Committee (comprised of volunteers) meet to review the nominations from the current year as well as any on file, and select up to six inductees for that year. This past October, the 12th annual induction ceremony was held and a gala event was held for close to 200 inductees, their families and friends. Guests had the opportunity to reconnect and reminisce while enjoying a delicious catered meal and entertainment provided by Henry "Gizmo" Williams, a Canadian Football League Hall of Fame member. Since the first induction ceremony in 2003, 65 athletes, teams or builders have been inducted into the Clarington Sports Hall of Fame. In 2014, we welcomed: • Ray Bester, Builder • Gail Johnson, Builder • Heather LeVon (Geboers), Athlete • Frank Mohun, Honourary • Harry "Dutch" Osborne, Athlete • Greg George Vey, Athlete 5.8 Community Events June is Recreation and Parks Month Each June, hundreds of communities across Ontario celebrate Recreation and Parks Month. The goal of Recreation and Parks Month is to increase public awareness of the value and benefits of recreation for individuals, families, neighbourhoods and communities and offer low or no cost activities to the residents. It is an opportunity to celebrate the success of recreation and parks in contributing to the quality of life in our communities across Ontario. The Neighbourhood Family Fitness Tour visited seven local parks in 2014 with over 125 parents and children participating in activities lead by Community Services Department staff that encouraged families to get active together. By encouraging activities such as running, jumping and throwing, children have an opportunity to develop fundamental movement skills, a term known as "physical literacy". Since its introduction in 2012, this activity has attracted over 400 people, however, is dependent on fair weather and is currently under evaluation for 2015. Other activities offered to celebrate June is Recreation and Parks Month in 2014 included: • Race Across Canada Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 14 • Toonie Tuesdays • Free Fitness Fridays • Colouring Contest Overall, the activities offered to the community seem to continue to attract participation, hopefully from those residents who may not already be accessing our recreation services. Since 2011, over 1,550 people have participated in June is Recreation and Parks Month in Clarington. Sports Day in Canada RBC Sports Day in Canada, presented by ParticipACTION, CBC and True Sport, was held in 2014 on Saturday, November 29 in communities from coast to coast to coast. This national celebration of sport, from grassroots to high-performance, is an opportunity for all Canadians to celebrate the power of sport, build community and national spirit and facilitate healthy, active living. For more information please visit www.cbcsports.ca/sportsday. In 2014, the Community Services Department, along with various community partners, celebrated Sports Day in Canada with a fun community event. The event was held at the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex on Saturday, November 29 from 1:30-4:30 PM. We had a variety of free activities for all ages: • 3 on 3 basketball tournament with Clarington Basketball Academy • Pickleball with the Clarington Older Adult Association • Let's Dance! with Newcastle Family Connection • Sports Themed Arts & Crafts with A Gift of Art • Sports Skills & Drills with Community Services Fitness Staff • Face Painting with Community Services Recreation Staff • FREE Public Swim from 2-4 PM with donation of non-perishable food item The event attracted close to 200 attendees, which was up significantly from the 75 who attended in 2013. An attraction this year was the 3 on 3 basketball tournament which brought people in for a specific activity. In addition to the community partners who were running activity stations, Firehouse Youth and Brimacombe also set up display booths on site. The public swim, which was free with a non-perishable food donation, collected two large boxes and $78.25, which was delivered to the Clarington East Food Bank in Newcastle on December 2. By all accounts this event was a success and shows promise of growing in attendance in 2015. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 15 5.9 Clarington Older Adult Association (COAA) Clarington Older Adult Strategy In February 2014, the Older Adult Strategy Terms of Reference, which were developed by the Community Services Department in consultation with the Clarington Older Adult Centre Board, were approved by Council. The Terms of Reference provided a framework for the consultant for the development of an Older Adult Strategy and will address current challenges such as facility space, and will look forward to the future to address the impact on programming and facilities of the anticipated growth of the older adult demographic in Clarington. A Steering Committee was formed and consists of representation from: • Community Services Department • Clarington Older Adult Centre Board (Staff, Board and General Membership) • Regional Municipality of Durham, Social Services • General Public The Steering Committee continues to meet with the consultants and a report with recommendations is anticipated to be presented to Council in the first quarter of 2015. Older Adult Partnership Programs In 2009, the Department entered into a partnership agreement with the Clarington Older Adult Centre Board to provide opportunities for older adult recreation programming in facilities throughout Clarington with or without a COAA membership. In 2014, the programming offerings both in Courtice and Newcastle by the COAA in partnership with the Community Services Department increased significantly as awareness of the program opportunities and demand for service has increased. A variety of programs, based on the interests of the participants, were offered at the Courtice Community Complex, including options such as Working with Fondant, Pen & Ink and various computer courses. In total, over 1,000 participants enjoyed programming opportunities in Courtice. The programming in Newcastle & District Recreation Complex is growing to meet the demands of older adults in the community. Pickleball has been and continues to be a very popular activity for the older adults in Newcastle. In addition to Pickleball, the COAA in partnership with the Community Services Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 16 Department, has offered fitness classes, computer workshops and over 1,300 participants enjoyed programming opportunities in Newcastle. 5.10 Clarington Community Connections e-Newsletter From funding opportunities to new legislation, a lot of information becomes available from many different sources that is applicable to the community organizations who offer programs and services in our community. In October 2014, the Community Services Department launched Clarington Community Connections, an electronic newsletter, as a tool to streamline the sharing of this information and to better connect with our community organizations. This e-newsletter provides an opportunity for information and resources to be shared with community organizations in a timely manner through one convenient document. The newsletter is sent out quarterly by email to community organizations that have an email address on file with the Department. In addition to better connection, this newsletter also allows the Municipality to get news out quickly and better engage our volunteer community. 5.11 Community Grant Program The Community Grant Program was established many years ago with the intent to provide Council with a vehicle to acknowledge and support the efforts of our local volunteer community and not-for-profit agencies that provide services, events or projects which benefit the community. A maximum amount of$60,000 was available for the 2014 Community Grant Program. Each year, staff have invited organizations to a community meeting to introduce the upcoming grant program and to brief applicants on any changes or revisions to the grant program while walking them through the application process. This meeting also provides an opportunity for staff to address any specific questions or concerns applicants may have with their specific application. The 2014 Community Grant meeting was held on January 16, 2014, and was attended by 27 individuals representing 18 community organizations. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 17 Community Grant Application Summary Community 2011 2012 2013 2014 Grants Number of Applications 44 42 41 34 Received Dollar Amount $129,154 $132,406 $122,497 $102,200 Requested Dollar Amount $60,000 $60,000 $54,600 $56,000 Awarded The 2015 Community Grant Program was introduced to community groups on January 14, 2015. The application form is available online as well as hard copy. Applications will be accepted until February 27, 2015. 6. Facilities Division 6.1 The Facilities Division is responsible for the operations and maintenance of recreation facilities managed by the Community Services Department. This includes permitting of arenas, swimming pools, indoor soccer and multi-purpose rooms. The Division is also responsible for concessions, pro shops, vending operations, as well as managing Clarington facility construction projects. This overview is intended to provide Council with an update on the activities and highlights of the Facilities Division for 2014. 6.2 Supporting the Facilities Manager, the Division is staffed by four Facilities Supervisors. The Supervisors share the management of our seven indoor facilities including concession and vending functions in all facilities. Along with the 24 full time unionized staff, the Division requires approximately 80 part-time staff to help operate the facilities. 7. Facilities Permitting 7.1 Our facilities booking office is responsible for the facility permits issued by the Department on an annual basis. These permits include all rentals for our major sport users in the arena, pool and indoor field facilities, and the annual facility rental contracts for all major ice, indoor field and pool users. The majority of facility usage is permitted to Clarington based minor sport users. 7.2 In 2014, minor hockey and figure skating rentals were generally consistent with the previous year. We did experience an increase in power skating ice rentals Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 18 with expanded programs at March Break and Christmas. Additional summer hockey camps were permitted in 2014 at South Courtice Arena where we maintain one ice pad for the full twelve months. 2014 hourly ice and floor rental statistics are as follows: Category 2012 (hours) 2013 (hours) 2014 (hours) Minor Hockey — Boys 5,865 5,706 5,708 Minor Hockey — Girls 2,129 2,131 2,165 Figure Skating 706 623 646 Speed Skating 224 265 217 Adult Hockey 1,359 1,124 1,143 School Boards 208 206 229 Other (Power Skating / Hockey Camps, Private Ice / Floor 350 853 1,392 Rentals) Lacrosse / Ball Hockey (Dry Pad) 1,472 1,315 1,190 Total 12,313 12,223 12,690 7.3 The closing of the Clarington Fitness Centre at the end of June had an impact on swimming pool rental hours for 2014. Since the closing, the Clarington Swim Club has operated a modified program utilizing available space at the other two swimming pools. The closure also reduced the number of rental spaces available to school boards to run their swimming programs. 2014 hourly swimming pool rental statistics are as follows: Category 2012 (hours) 2013 (hours) 2014 (hours) Swim Club 763 578 511 School Boards 118 128 106 Other 112 90 106 Total 993 796 723 Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 19 7.4 Although indoor field rental hours remained generally consistent for the Darlington Soccer Club's youth and adult programs, there was an increase in Private and School Board bookings on the indoor field for 2014. A ball hockey league also increased rental hours for the lacrosse bowl. 2014 hourly indoor soccer/outdoor lacrosse rental statistics are as follows: Category 2012 (hours) 2013 (hours) 2014 (hours) Youth Soccer 1,055 1,133 1,207 Adult Soccer 195 153 141 Other (Private/School 115 99 163 Board) Youth and Adult 151 174 244 Lacrosse Bowl Total 1,516 1,559 1,755 7.5 Pay-as-You-Go and Complimentary Programming In addition to private and community group rentals, the Department provides a variety of public programs to residents in our facilities. This includes pay-as-you- go and complimentary programs. Starting in September 2014, responding to the feedback from our residents, a Sunday morning Parent & Tot skate was started at South Courtice Arena. This provides parents who are not able to attend our numerous weekday sessions an opportunity to get on the ice with their tots to develop their skating skills and have some fun. Although overall attendance dropped in 2014, this additional weekend date is being well received by residents and attendance data for 2015 should reflect this. The attendance for our Ticket Ice program, which provides additional on ice practice primarily for figure skaters, continues to be a challenge and is somewhat related to the decline in figure skating rental hours. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 20 2014 attendance statistics are as follows: Category 2013 2014 Attendance Attendance Shinny Hockey 1,582 2,099 Shinny 55+ 3,677 3,123 Youth Shinny 367 415 Ticket Ice 402 250 Skate 55+ (complimentary) 5,304 5,323 Parent & Tot Skate 7,174 6,546 (complimentary) Indoor Soccer Walking Program 6,756 7,044 (complimentary) Indoor Soccer Drop-in Soccer 263 250 Total 25,525 25,050 8. Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) Program 8.1 Community Services remains responsible for the administration of the Cardiac Safe program for all seven of our indoor recreation facilities. The annual program support and training is provided by Central East Pre-hospital Care Program (CEPCP) and the costs associated with this program are provided in the Department's annual operating budget. In addition to the annual training, program support includes medical oversight, equipment technical support and incident support. 8.2 In fall 2014, we held certification sessions with approximately 75 staff members attending this five hour program. In order to provide a broad range of certified staff, full time and part-time, facilities operations and administration staff are provided this training. 8.3 In addition to providing new staff the required training on the program, the annual certification also provides an opportunity to all existing staff to stay current on guidelines and become more comfortable using a defibrillator. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 21 9. Facility Accessibility Program 9.1 A significant focus of the renovation at the Clarington Fitness Centre was to address the accessibility challenges a facility of this age has. This facility, when re-opened in 2015, will see power assisted front entrance doors, a fully accessible family change room, accessible public washrooms including an accessible washroom in the front lobby, the installation of an elevator to the second floor and other improvements designed to create a more barrier-free experience for our residents. 9.2 In 2014, as in prior years, accessibility improvements were completed in various facilities. In response to the challenges patrons with hearing impairments face, the fire alarm systems at the Garnet B. Rickard and Courtice Community complexes were retrofitted with combination strobe light and horn alarms to provide both audio and visual alerts in the case of an emergency. The doors to the family change room at Courtice Complex were made wider and equipped with power door operators this past fall. 9.3 The plan for 2015, includes the installation of power operated sliding door units at the front entrance to Courtice Complex, additional water wheel chairs for our pool facilities and the installation of a patron transfer lift in the accessible change room at the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex. This will improve the ability for patrons to change and transfer into water wheel chairs to take part in our aquatic services. 10. Construction Project Management 10.1 With the responsibility for municipal facility construction, the Department continues to manage both new build and renovation projects on behalf of the Municipality. Our involvement on the Newcastle Fire Hall was reduced with the opening of the hall earlier in 2014. Staff continue to work with Fire & Emergency Services to fully complete outstanding deficiencies and address warranty items. 10.2 In 2014, the Department undertook two larger renovation projects in addition to the annual capital improvement program. The largest project is the ongoing renovation to the Clarington Fitness Centre, which started this past summer. At the end of 2014, the renovation was progressing well with the anticipated re- opening of the facility as the Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre in late spring/early summer. 10.3 In the fall, we also commenced the expansion of the mechanical and ice resurfacing room at the Darlington Sports Centre. This much needed project will enhance the safety of our staff working in the facility and provide them adequate space and improved workplace safety. This work is also progressing and is expected to be completed in March 2015. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 22 10.4 Facilities staff are included on the Courtice Library Expansion team and will manage the construction, on behalf of the Clarington Public Library and the Municipality, which is scheduled to commence later in February. 10.5 At the request of Council, staff has been formulating options for additional satellite program space for the Clarington Older Adult Association at the Courtice Complex. The proposed renovation will address older adult needs as well as expanding Community Services program needs. This project has been included in our 2015 capital budget submission and if approved will commence following the library branch expansion project. 11 . Energy Conservation 11.1 The Department continues to support the energy conservation efforts of the Municipality and facilities management staff are directly involved with the Energy Management Committee. George Acorn is the Chair, and Ken Ferguson a Committee Member. 11.2 In 2014, the lighting on both ice pads at South Courtice Arena was changed from traditional metal halide to more efficient T-5 fluorescent units. This has drastically improved the lighting levels on the ice surfaces at the same time as using less energy. In addition the lighting in the Courtice Complex fitness facility was replaced with energy efficient LED light fixtures. Both of these projects received rebates from the saveONenergy retrofit program. 11.3 The Department continues to work closely with Veridian Connections on the energy incentive application for the ongoing renovation at the Clarington Fitness Centre. With the mechanical system and lighting improvements included in the renovation the facility will see greater energy efficiency. These improvements should result in an additional saveONenergy rebate. 12. Health and Safety 12.1 Workplace health and safety continued to be a high priority in 2014. In addition to the monthly workplace inspections completed by the Joint Health and Safety Committee, Department staff continued to perform monthly supervisory inspections at our recreation facilities. In addition, the divisional managers inspect the workplaces semi-annually with the Director performing annual inspections. 12.2 The division continues to work closely with the Health & Safety Coordinator on our workplace safety training programs. Currently, our full time facilities' staff attend two one-day training sessions in November and April each year. These sessions provide an opportunity to update staff on operating procedures, emergency responses and other current industry information. We have recently Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-001-15 Page 23 brought in the Public Sector Health and Safety Association (PSHSA) to provide staff training and certification in various areas of workplace health and safety. 12.3 Workplace health and safety has become ingrained in our day to day operations and remains a topic for discussion on meeting agendas at all levels within the department. 13. Concurrence Not Applicable 14. Conclusion 14.1 The Community Services Department is very proud of our accomplishments over the past year. Our state of the art recreation facilities offer a safe and attractive environment for all our residents to enjoy. 14.2 Our youth and adult recreation programming continues to provide Clarington residents with a variety of opportunities that encourage a healthy lifestyle. 14.3 In 2015, the Department will continue to identify areas of potential development and growth, ensuring quality recreational opportunities for our growing and diverse population. 15. Strategic Plan Application The recommendations contained in this report conform to the Strategic Plan. Submitted bye Reviewed by-. JosSh P. Caruana, Franklin Wu, Director of Community Services Chief Administrative Officer Staff Contact: Sharon Meredith, Manager of Recreation, 905-623-3379 ext. 2504 or smeredith(a),clarington.net and George Acorn, Facilities Manager, 905-623-3379 ext. 2503 or gacorn(-clarington.net There are no interested parties to be notified of Council's decision. JPC/SM/WG