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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCSD-002-17 Community Services Report If this information is required in an alternate accessible format, please contact the Accessibility Coordinator at 905-623-3379 ext. 2131. Report To: General Government Committee Date of Meeting: March 6, 2017 Report Number: CSD-002-17 Resolution: File Number: By-law Number: Report Subject: Community Services - 2016 Year End Review Recommendations: 1. That Report CSD-002-17 be received for information. Municipality of Clarington Page 2 Report CSD-002-17 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 2016. 1. Recreation Services Division 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 2016. 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 and special events. 2. Aquatic Section The Municipality operates three indoor aquatic facilities (Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre, Courtice Community Complex and Newcastle & District Recreation Complex). These facilities operate 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. The Aquatic Division provides a number of part-time job opportunities, and employs approximately 75 staff, the majority of which are students (secondary and post- secondary) and young adults. These positions offer employees valuable experience in areas of customer service, working with the public, conflict resolution, and first aid/aquatic emergency response. On average, staff must complete a minimum of six certifications to be eligible for employment. Once hired, they undergo intensive training in areas such as WHMIS, health and safety, accessibility, and aquatic procedures/emergency response at each aquatic facility. Quarterly in-service training and annual/bi-annual recertification ensures all staff continue to perform at required standards. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 3 2.1 Instructional Aquatic Programs Community Services currently offers 76 hours of aquatic instructional programming each week between all three indoor pools. This includes preschool/youth/adult swimming lessons, private and semi-private swimming lessons, lifesaving, leadership, and aquafit. Additionally, the Department offers end of session/condensed advanced leadership programming which run 16 – 40 hours in length. In 2016, approximately 9,200 individuals participated in registered aquatic instructional programs. This number reflects an overall increase in the number of registrants, additional aquafit classes at the Courtice Community Complex, and a full year of operation at the Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre which included the addition of Thursday evening lessons. Aquatic Program Participant Statistics (Swimming Lessons) Pool 2014 2015 2016 Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre 217 Closed in June 2014 314 Re-opened for fall session only 1,295 Full year operation Courtice Community Complex 3,087 3,296 3,516 Newcastle & District Recreation Complex 4,027 4,343 4,384 Total Number of Users 7,331 7,953 9,195 2.2 Recreational Swimming The Department offers a wide variety of recreational 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 109 hours of swims per week. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 4 Recreational swimming remains a popular activity for all ages in the community. 2016 saw a significant increase in the number of people who visited the pools for recreational swimming. The annual number of users rose to 108,886, an increase of 14.5% over 2015. While most facilities did see an increase in users, a decrease was noted at the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex. This was anticipated as a result of the full year operation of the re-opening of both the Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre and the Jack Burger Sports Complex (Port Hope). During 2015, Newcastle & District Recreation Complex did see an increase in Port Hope residents swimming and using other amenities. Recreational Swimming Participant Statistics Pool 2014 2015 2016 Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre 6,363 Closed in June 2014 4,964 Re-opened for fall session only 15,795 Full year operation Courtice Community Complex 32,593 31,845 37,696 Newcastle & District Recreation Complex 49,623 53,719 50,140 Orono Park Pool 3,683 4,509 5,255 Total Number of Users 92,262 95,037 108,886 3. Fitness Section The Community Services Department offers fitness programs and activities at several municipal recreation facilities. The Fitness Training Facility is located within the Courtice Community Complex and is a fully equipped fitness facility. Group fitness programs are offered at the Courtice Community Complex, Newcastle & District Recreation Complex, Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre, South Courtice Arena, Garnet B. Rickard Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 5 Recreation Complex, Bowmanville Indoor Soccer facility and new in 2016 the Kendal Community Centre. All fitness programs and activities are conducted by Certified Fitness professionals. 3.1 Courtice Fitness Training Facility This facility is open weekdays, 6:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. and weekends 8:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. The Courtice Fitness Training Centre offers 33 strength machines, 35 cardio machines and a variety of free weight/functional equipment for members to utilize. The group fitness studio and the newly renovated program room provide space for 50+ fitness classes per week. Programs such as Muscle Moves, Spinning, Yoga and Zumba provide members with a wide variety of professionally led classes. The Fitness Division offers one-on-one and small group personal training with certified personal trainers. 3.2 Newcastle & District Recreation Complex Group fitness classes at the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex continue to grow in variety and popularity. The Group Fitness programs are available to the Fitness Plus members, Group Fitness members, registered participants and drop-in participants. The Fitness Division continues to see an increased demand for additional class time and variety of class types from the surrounding neighborhoods. 3.3 Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre Approximately 12 group fitness classes operate at the Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre. Fitness members are enjoying a wide variety of classes both indoor and outdoor including the Run/Walk Bootcamp, High Intensity Interval Training, Yoga and Stress Busters. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 6 Clarington’s Learn to Run 5 km program also expanded to Bowmanville in 2016. The runners meet twice weekly at the Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre and have several routes mapped out in the adjoining neighbourhoods. 3.4 Active Living Memberships The membership structure that was introduced in September 2014 continues to provide various membership types and terms so that all Clarington residents can have access to suitable Active Living membership options. The re-introduction of the Squash membership (due to the re-opening of the Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre) was well received with a continued uptake on the squash memberships. The Run Club Membership gives patrons access to all of the Fitness Training Centre amenities as well as access to all of the Municipality of Clarington’s Run Club Programs throughout the patron’s membership term. This membership type has helped to expand our Run Club programs and events. The Courtice Community Complex Fitness Training Centre has seen a large increase in usage in 2016. We not only track our membership sales, we also track patron head counts, tour and orientation requests and fitness services such as Personal Training. Year 2015 2016 Head Counts 81,034 96,865 Tours 447 765 Training 435 492 Orientations 233 265 Clarington Run Club Members – 2016 - 26km Inaugural Facility Run Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 7 3.5 Group Fitness Programs The newly renovated Program Room and Fitness Studio at the Courtice Community Complex re-opened in the spring of 2016 and welcomed the return of new and existing group fitness classes and enhanced training opportunities. Currently, the group fitness classes service all fitness membership types as well as registered and drop-in participants. The classes are run out of six Community Services Department facilities. 2016 saw the inclusion of the Bowmanville Indoor Soccer facility as the home of the new Youth Fit programming. This programming brings functional fitness opportunities for kids from 6-17 years of age. Youth Fit Program Participants 3.6 Membership Retention and Incentives Membership retention is tracked through our recreation software and hourly head counts that are invaluable to managing our peak times and equipment usage records. The Fitness Division offers programs throughout the year to keep members accountable for their own fitness and encourage membership retention. “Club 150” is a tracking program that monitors how often a member utilizes the Fitness Centre or attends one of the fitness classes at each facility. 2016 had 150 people participate. Popular seasonal events occur as well, such as Amazing Race, Race Across Canada, Recreation & Parks Month and more. Club 150 – Participants and Club winners celebrate their accomplishments. Youth Fit – Firefighter Week Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 8 3.7 Grade 5 Action Pass The Municipality of Clarington has been a partner in the Durham Region 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 and skating and runs October 1 of the year the student is in grade 5 until August 31 of the following year. With rising childhood obesity rates, this initiative was introduced to address the growing concern over the number of children leading a sedentary lifestyle and not meeting daily physical activity guidelines. 2011/2012 2012/2013 2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016 415 400 306 303 394 4. Recreation Programming Section 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. The Recreation Division employs 98 part-time recreation staff annually. The staff team is made up primarily of high school, college and university students. All recreation staff take part in seasonal training, including health and safety, WHMIS, customer service, leadership, program planning, accessibility and many other topics. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 9 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 skills that will benefit them for years to come. 4.1 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 to 16 years of age. In 2016, there were a variety of camp opportunities including; Leadership Camp, Counsellor in Training, Trip Camp, Sports Camp, Road Hockey Camp, Kinder Camp, Arts Camp, Eco Camp, Junior Chef Camp, French Camp, Dodgeball Camp, Soccer Camp, Lacrosse Camp, Ice Hockey Camp, Outdoor Adventure Camp and new additions in 2016 were Lego Camp, Dance Camp and Theatre Stars Camp. *please note 2015 had 10 weeks of camp, all others had 9 weeks Camp programs continue to accommodate as many individuals in the Municipality as possible and the Department continues to revise and diversify camp opportunities each year, achieving the underlying goal of providing quality programs at a reasonable fee. 2300 2621 2068 1798 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 2016 2015 2014 2013 Total Camp Registrations (including extended care registrations) Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 10 In the summer of 2016, Community Services employed a total of 42 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 leadership development, team building, health and safety, 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. 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 delivered playground programs for children 6 – 12 years of age. The YMCA staff provided games and activities for children 0 – 6 years of Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 11 age. The drop-in style programs offered a less structured option to our day camps for participants and caregivers. The two “Funmobiles” 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 weekly which included: Tyrone Park, Orono Park, Pearce Farm Park, Rosswell Park, Ina Brown Parkette, Solina Park, Haydon Hall, Harry Gay Park, Bons Park, Port Darlington East Beach Park, Avondale Park, Harold Longworth Park and Memorial Park. Attendance at most Mobile Playground locations was very positive, with over 2,000 people visiting the playgrounds throughout the summer. 4.2 Public Skating In 2016, Community Services had close to 12,000 participants attend our public skating programs throughout the Municipality. Facility 2014 2015 2016 South Courtice Arena 6,737 6,752 6,363 Garnet B. Rickard Complex 4,131 3,460 3,342 Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 12 Darlington Sports Complex 1,793 1,886 2,143 Total 12,661 12,098 11,848 4.3 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 Foundation 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. 2016 saw a continued increase in the number of applicants and the amount of funding distributed to the residents of Clarington. Year Number of Children Assisted Funding Distributed 2014 61 $9,588 2015 95 $16,172 2016 111 $22,125 Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 13 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 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. Year Number of Families Number of Individuals 2014 20 48 2015 25 54 2016 36 85 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. 2014 2015 2016 Total MAP participants 5 13 10 28 Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 14 5. Community Development Section 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. 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 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. 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. 5.1 Connecting with our Community Training and Development 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. Based on feedback from our community partners, staff worked with local trainers to develop an offering of workshops which addressed some training needs and also provided a forum for networking and support among the volunteer community. The following workshops were offered to the volunteer sector in 2016: • Smart Serve Certification workshops • Accounting 101 for Not-for-Profits • Board Development: Steps to Building a Better Board We are currently planning future community board development sessions which will cover topics such as board leadership and strategic planning. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 15 In November 2016, the first Community Connections Networking Event was held in an effort to bring representatives of local organizations together, find opportunities for collaboration, share information and make connections. Nineteen representatives from 17 local organizations participated in this event and 100% of those who responded to a post- event survey felt they would follow up with one or more individuals they connected with that evening. Community networking in action We are looking forward to offering this event on an annual basis in an effort to foster connections, encourage collaboration and resource sharing. Increased Communication 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. The Community Services Department continues to share information through Clarington Community Connections, an electronic newsletter, a tool that serves to streamline that share of information and helps us to better connect with our community organizations. The newsletter is sent out quarterly by email to community organizations that have an email address on file with the Department. In the fall of 2016, staff began utilizing a new distribution technology, Mail Chimp that allows us to more easily manage our mailing list and track readership through various reports. This new format also encourages sharing and posting of the newsletter by its recipients for an increased reach. This newsletter allows us to get news out quickly and better engage with our volunteer community. There are currently close to 200 recipients of the electronic newsletter, with more added at every opportunity. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 16 Clarington Community Connections e-newsletter 5.2 Special Events This past year was the first full year that corporate special events were administered by the Community Services Department. In addition to existing events already implemented through our Department, we added several other events to our lineup. For the Love of Art – Mayor’s Gala The 4th annual For the Love of Art – Mayor’s Gala happened on Saturday, February 20, 2016 at the Clarington Public Library – Bowmanville Branch. The Mayor’s Gala is an evening showcasing art and artists in Clarington through live demonstrations, musical performances and art displayed throughout the venue. The beneficiaries of the Gala, the Visual Arts Centre of Clarington and A Gift of Art Gallery, each received $22,000. Funds were raised through sponsorships, ticket sales, a silent auction and mystery gift boxes. For the Love of Art – Mayor’s Gala Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 17 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. The 2016 Clarington Sport & Leisure Fair was held on Sunday, February 28, 2016. The event coincided with an existing public skate which was offered at no charge for this day. We saw over 500 people visit close to 40 community displays throughout the afternoon. The 2017 Clarington Sport & Leisure Fair was held on Sunday, March 5, 2017 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Newcastle & District Recreation Complex. Clarington Sport & Leisure Fair Recreation and Parks Month Since 2011, the Municipality of Clarington has joined communities across Ontario to celebrate Recreation and Parks Month. It is an opportunity to increase public awareness of the value and benefits of recreation by offering low or no cost activities to our residents. The Community Services Department celebrated by visiting local parks through the Neighbourhood Family Fitness Tour, hosted in conjunction with Clarington Basketball Academy; and offered other activities such as Race Across Canada, Toonie Tuesdays and Free Fitness Fridays. In the last six years approximately 2,500 people have participated in June is Recreation and Parks Month in Clarington. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 18 June is Recreation and Parks Month – Neighbourhood Family Fitness Tour 11th Annual Clarington Mayor’s Golf Classic The 11th Annual Clarington Mayor’s Golf Classic was held on Thursday, July 7, 2016 at the Newcastle Golf and Country Club with a dinner following golf at the Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex. The event was another huge success, selling out quickly with over 150 golfers, most from our generous local business community. The 2016 beneficiary, Clarington Museums and Archives, received the net proceeds which totalled $30,000. The 12th Annual Mayor’s Golf Classic is scheduled for Thursday, July 6, 2017 with the Clarington Project of Oshawa / Clarington Community Living as the beneficiary. Clarington Mayor’s Golf Classic Clarington Blooms Clarington Blooms is an annual program celebrating its 18th year. The program recognizes the residents, businesses, churches and schools in Clarington who put time Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 19 and effort into making Clarington beautiful and is organized in cooperation with the Bowmanville and Newcastle Horticultural Societies. In 2016, over 260 gardens were nominated and in October close to 100 people attended the recognition ceremony. Clarington Blooms Clarington Sports Hall of Fame The Clarington Sports Hall of Fame has welcomed over 80 distinguished athletes, teams and builders since its inception in 2003. In 2016, we proudly welcomed five more inductees. As part of a plan to bring the Sports Hall of Fame out into the community, the Community Services Department set up a satellite display of plaques and sports memorabilia at the Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre in late 2016. These displays will be expanded to several other recreation facilities in 2017. Clarington Sports Hall of Fame Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 20 CP Holiday Train The CP Holiday Train pulled into Clarington on Monday, November 28, 2016 to a great crowd ready to enjoy the show. Through this fun, holiday themed event, three local Clarington based food banks received donations of food and money from both CP and attendees. St. Vincent de Paul, Clarington East Food Bank and the Salvation Army received $2,500.00 each from CP Rail and hundreds of pounds of food from show spectators. CP Holiday Train New Year’s Eve Family Celebration Clarington rang in the New Year at the South Courtice Arena during the 3rd annual New Year’s Eve Family Celebration. Over 500 people took part in the festivities which included public skating, an inflatable obstacle course, face painting, balloon art, carnival games, crafts and much more. We also welcomed Soper Creek Wildlife Rescue and their family of rescued animals to the event. A nominal fee was charged for public skating, but all other activities were offered to the community at no charge. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 21 New Year’s Eve Family Celebration 5.3 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, programs or activities which benefit the community. A maximum amount of $60,000.00 was available for the 2016 Community Grant Program. Each year staff invite representatives of local organizations to a community meeting to introduce the upcoming 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 2016 Community Grant meeting was held on January 13, 2016 and was attended by 21 individuals representing 17 community organizations. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 22 Community Grant Application Summary Community Grants 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Number of Applications Received 42 41 34 35 40 Dollar Amount Requested $132,406 $122,497 $102,200 $115,781 $119,874 Dollar Amount Awarded $60,000 $54,600 $56,000 $55,500 $60,000 The 2017 Community Grant Program was introduced to the community groups on January 17, 2017. The application form is available online as well as hard copy is available at various recreation facilities and the Municipal Administrative Centre. Applications were accepted until February 24, 2017 (11:59 p.m.) 5.4 Community Sponsorship Program In 2016, the Community Services Department introduced a formalized Community Event Sponsorship Program which was approved by Council and subsequently implemented in the spring for events occurring July 1 to December 31, 2016. This program allows Council to continue to support and recognize events in our community that promote engagement and foster civic pride. Through the introduction of this new program, Council supported 27 events in our community for a total of $33,500.00 in 2016. Community Event Sponsorships 2015 2016 Number of Applications Received 34 29 Dollar Amount Requested $45,565 $43,810 Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 23 Dollar Amount Awarded $34,791 $33,500 6. Older Adult Section As of January 1, 2016 the Community Services Department’s mandate was expanded to include direct recreation programming for older adults living in Clarington. Recreation programs offer great benefits for this population, which include socialization, staying engaged and active within the community. A variety of programs are currently offered ranging from registered programs, drop-in, workshops and special events. The Grand Opening of the Older Adult Activity Centre at the Courtice Community Complex took place on Saturday, April 23. Grand Opening of the Older Adult Activity Centre 6.1 Registered Programs Registered programs vary from active living classes (fitness, yoga, aquafit) to general interest classes (art, language, bridge lessons) to computer classes (iPad, laptop). Programs take place at Courtice Community Complex, Newcastle & District Recreation Complex, Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre, Bowmanville Indoor Soccer and South Courtice Arena. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 24 Registered Program/Event Participant Statistics for 2016 Active Living General Interest Computers Workshops Luncheons Special Events 643 152 184 237 328 647 6.2 Drop-in Activities Offering a range of low cost and low commitment drop-in opportunities is an important aspect of older adult programming. We have offered a wide range of drop-in activities, ranging from games such as bingo and euchre to more physically active activities like pickleball, table tennis, and biking. Drop-in Activity Statistics for 2016 Euchre Open Activity Open Jam Pickleball Table Tennis Bingo 312 726 147 1,839 141 70 Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 25 6.3 Volunteers As many older adults transition from full time work to part time work or retirement volunteering can be a way to stay involved, keep active and connected with the community. Staff are currently in the early stages of the development of a formal volunteer management program specifically geared to older adult programs and services. Currently, volunteer recruitment has been taking place to assist with specific programs and special events. Since the opening of the dedicated space in Courtice, 485 volunteer hours have been logged by 15 volunteers who have assisted in many special events and drop-in programs. The volunteer program is expected to expand in the coming years by adding more volunteer roles, responsibilities and training opportunities. 6.4 Special Events June is Seniors Month in Canada, and for the Municipality of Clarington’s Community Services Department, this was the first year providing a special event for those residents of Clarington 55+ to say thank you. On June 22, 2016, a “Celebrating Seniors Month Barbecue” was held at the Courtice Community Complex. The no-cost event featured interactive displays, live entertainment, free barbecue, and draw prizes. Over 200 people took part in this event. Special events with meals were very popular in 2016. An end of summer Corn Roast took place in August. In September, a 50’s Sock Hop was held with the Lincolnaires Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 26 performing and a delicious roast beef dinner. A Murder Mystery with spaghetti dinner was held in October. Hot luncheons were offered every two weeks, and averaged 20 people. December 21 was the Christmas Luncheon. Entertainment was provided by Adele Simmons with the ukulele players and Jeanette Vandervooren. A delicious, traditional turkey meal was served. A wonderful time was had by all. The Municipality received a grant through the Ontario Seniors Secretariat, and the Older Adults Centres Association of Ontario to host an Older Adult Information and Active Living Fair at the Courtice Community Complex. The event took place on November 5. A total of 35 exhibitors (equal mix of non-profit and for-profit) took part in the Trade show. Fitness demonstrations and educational workshops were scheduled throughout the day. Free healthy snacks and lunch were also provided, along with door prizes. A free shuttle was offered at pick up points in the rural and urban areas of Clarington. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 27 7. Facilities Division The Facilities Division is responsible for the operations and maintenance of recreation facilities managed by the Community Services Department. This includes permitting rentals for our swimming pools, arenas, indoor soccer, gymnasiums and multi-purpose rooms. The Division is also responsible for concession and vending operations at these facilities. Supporting the Manager, the Division is staffed with four Supervisors, a part time Concession Supervisor, four Lead Hands and 19 Facility Operators. We also have one full time and one part time position in our facility booking office. Additionally we employ approximately 75 part time staff in facility maintenance and concession operations. 8. Facilities Permitting Our facility booking office and staff is located at Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex and are responsible for facility permits issued by the Department for indoor recreation facilities. This includes five ice pads, one outdoor and three indoor swimming pools, gymnasiums, various meeting rooms, the outdoor lacrosse bowl and indoor soccer rentals. The majority of our facility permits are for Clarington minor sport organizations so they can deliver sports programs to their participants, primarily at the child and youth age groups. Additionally, we assist the organizations with any special events they hold, such as tournaments, shows and competitions. 8.1 2016 Hourly Ice and Floor Rental Statistics The total hours booked for 2016, although down slightly from 2015, represent a consistent demand for prime time ice during the winter season and lacrosse for the spring/summer season. Minor sport ice booking reductions reflect the cancellation of hours during the Christmas holidays and March Break. Adult hockey rental cancellations do occur at the late night hours which was the case in 2016. The speed skating decrease is due to a reduction in weekly ice requested for the 2015/16 season. Category 2014 hours 2015 hours 2016 hours Minor Hockey Boys 5,708 5,759 5,676 Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 28 Minor Hockey Girls 2,165 2,123 1,976 Figure Skating 646 596 665 Speed Skating 217 155 121 Adult Hockey 1,143 1,129 1,018 School Boards 229 218 203 Other 1,392 772 796 Lacrosse 1,190 1,143 1,072 Totals 12,690 11,895 11,527 8.2 2016 Hourly Swimming Pool Rental Statistics Swimming pool rentals saw an increase in 2016 for two reasons. The Clarington Swim Club has increased their weekly pool use in 2016, including early morning swims that had been previously cancelled. The 2015 statistics showing decreased use were partially attributed to the renovation at Alan Strike Aquatic and Squash Centre. Category 2014 hours 2015 hours 2016 hours Swim Club 511 535 596 School Boards 106 92 117 Private Rentals 106 86 116 Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 29 Totals 723 713 829 8.3 2016 Hourly Indoor Soccer/Outdoor Lacrosse Rental Statistics Youth indoor soccer usage increased in 2016 as was expected. Discussions with the Darlington Soccer Club following the 2015/16 season indicated a registration irregularity that would not occur for the 2016/17 indoor season. Lacrosse bowl rentals increased as the Clarington Minor Lacrosse Association added more activities from 2015. Category 2014 hours 2015 hours 2016 hours Youth Soccer 1,207 889 1,038 Adult Soccer 141 138 138 Private Rentals 163 102 101 Lacrosse Bowl 244 153 255 Totals 1755 1282 1532 8.4 Pay-as-You-Go and Complimentary Programming Attendance at these various activities saw an overall increase from 2015. The addition of a second weekend Parent & Tot session at South Courtice Arena is proving successful. We listened to parents who were unable to get their tots to our weekday sessions but still wanted a safe atmosphere to teach them how to skate. We will monitor the popularity and look to expand the dates/times when ice supply is available. Category 2015 attendance 2016 attendance Shinny Hockey 2,862 2,552 Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 30 Shinny 55+ 3,194 4,842 Shinny Youth 240 179 Skate 55+ (complimentary) 5,425 5,034 Parent & Tot Skate (complimentary) 6,845 7,982 Indoor Soccer Walking Program (complimentary) 6,646 4,871 Indoor Soccer Drop-in 72 207 Totals 25,284 25,667 9. Construction Project Management With the responsibility for municipal facility construction, the Department manages new build and renovation projects for the Municipality. The focus in early 2016 was the completion of the interior renovation at Courtice Community Complex. This project transformed the former banquet hall into our Older Adult Activity Centre. Additionally we converted the former leased area adjacent to the fitness centre and now have additional space to use for department programs and activities. The facility was officially re-opened on April 23. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 31 Courtice Community Complex Program Room Renovation Following the approval of a federal grant from the Canada 150 Community Infrastructure Program, staff began the task of hiring an architectural firm and working with them on the renovation design of the banquet hall at Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex. In addition to the upgrading of the hall and kitchen facilities, the design will provide a welcoming new lobby at the west parking lot entrance. This construction contract was awarded in December and work commenced early January with the demolition phase. The target date for completion is June 30 to be available for Canada’s 150th birthday celebration on July 1, 2017. Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex Community Hall Renovation Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 32 10. Energy Conservation The Community Services Department budgets approximately $1.5M annually for heat, hydro and water for our recreation facilities. Each year supervisors are tasked with the goal of managing energy usage in our facilities. Through our involvement on the Energy Management Steering Committee we work collectively with other departments to achieve maximum energy conservation. As part of our capital budget program planning, conservation ranks high when considering equipment replacement and system enhancements. Recently, we have upgraded the refrigeration systems controls at South Courtice Arena and Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex. This will provide more efficient operation of the ice pads in these facilities. In addition to reducing energy, we were also successful in receiving saveONenergy incentives that will go toward the cost of the systems. Regardless of any conservation efforts, the challenge to control the overall cost of our utility bills is hampered by the charges not directly related to usage. Global Adjustment represents the single largest cost on facility hydro bills. This charge is difficult to relate directly to energy consumption. As energy consumption remains more in our control this is what we focus on. 11. Health and Safety Workplace health and safety remains a daily priority for our supervisors and staff. The Municipality has been successful in creating a culture of safety in the workplace, with buy in at all levels. Health and safety is a key component of our annual full time and part time staff training. In 2016, staff were certified in the new WHMIS 2015 program. Training in 2016 also included hearing conservation and fit testing for hearing protection devices; Legal Awareness Level II offered by the Ontario Recreation Facilities Association; fire extinguisher training; and automatic external defibrillator (AED) training. In addition to being represented on the Joint Health and Safety Committee, supervisors work with the Health and Safety Coordinator on internal/external training as well as ongoing communication in the area of industry health and safety best practices. 12. Facilities Development Strategy With the rate of growth and the changing demographic profile of our residents a comprehensive strategy for future development of indoor recreation facilities was needed. Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 33 Staff worked throughout 2016 with Monteith Brown Planning Consultants on the Department’s Facilities Development Strategy. This Strategy’s objective is to provide both Council and staff a reference to advance an indoor recreation facility development program. In addition to looking at growth and emerging industry trends, consultation was sought from our facility use stakeholders and the general public. From this work came a number of recommendations that culminated in a report to General Government Committee this January. Following a fulsome discussion of the strategy and its recommendations, the report was referred back to staff with direction to review the facility components that were presented and to revise the implementation program, specifically with reference to the South Bowmanville location. 13. Concurrence Not Applicable 14. ConclusionThe Community Services Department is very proud of our accomplishments over the past year. Our youth and adult recreation programming continues to provide Clarington residents with a variety of opportunities that encourage a healthy lifestyle. In 2017, 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 by: Reviewed by: Joseph P. Caruana, Curry Clifford, MPA, CMO Director of Community Services Interim CAO Municipality of Clarington Report CSD-002-17 Page 34 Staff Contact: George Acorn, Facilities Manager, 905-623-3379 ext. 2503 or gacorn@clarington.net and Sharon Meredith, Manager of Recreation, 905-623-3379 ext. 2504 or smeredith@clarington.net. There are no interested parties to be notified of Council's decision. Attachments – N/A