WSPR STAFF REPORT: 2025 April Progress Report - West Shore Regional Parks & Recreation Facilities Master Plan

MUNICIPAL OWNERS

WSPR STAFF REPORT

RECOMMENDATION:

That the West Shore Parks & Recreation Society Members receive this report for information.

BACKGROUND:

The West Shore Parks & Recreation Society members (WSPRS) approved funding for a regional parks & recreation facilities master plan that will evaluate the current state of parks & recreation facilities on the Westshore and develop a 10 to 20- year road map to address the growing sporting and recreational needs of the community.

Progress updates will be provided by the WSPRS CAO quarterly or following key project milestones.

DISCUSSION:

Phase 2, the Engagement Phase, is nearing completion, with only a few engagement opportunities remaining. A variety of methods were used to engage the Westshore community including resident and community group surveys, input workshops with the Society member councils, board of directors and staff, in-person engagement booths, interviews and targeted sessions with youth, seniors and indigenous groups (currently being scheduled).

A demographic review of the respondents shows the portion of respondents from each community correlates strongly with the population breakdown of the Westshore, as well as the ownership breakdown of the Society: Langford 50%; Colwood 22%; View Royal 9%; Metchosin 6%; Highlands 3%; and 10% from outside the Westshore. The initial review of responses indicates strong alignment between all respondent groups, as well as a high degree of satisfaction with WSPRS’ services. Furthermore, 89% of respondents indicated that sport and recreation opportunities are important to their quality of life.

The consultants indicated that members of council who wish to share feedback may still do so via WSPR staff.

The project is on schedule and the first draft of the master plan for WSPR internal review is expected in July, with a revised draft to be presented to councils in late September. The final presentations will be scheduled in late October/early November.

BUDGET IMPLICATIONS:

The approved budget for the West Shore Parks & Recreation Facilities Master Plan project is $140,000. To date, $52,788 has been incurred, which will be included in the project’s quarterly financial status report to the Society members’ financial officers.

Respectfully Submitted,

Grant Brown, Administrator