The Corporation of the City of Kawartha Lakes

Minutes

Parks Advisory Committee Meeting

KLPAC2025-001
-
Wolfe Street Boardroom
50 Wolfe Street, Lindsay, Ontario
Members:
  • Mayor Doug Elmslie
  • Deputy Mayor Charlie McDonald
  • Councillor Tracy Richardson
  • Elke Danziger
  • Michael McGregor
  • Kimara Molloy
  • Peter Sanderson
Accessible formats and communication supports are available upon request. The City of Kawartha Lakes is committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. Please contact [email protected] if you have an accessible accommodation request.

1.
Call to Order

 

Recording Secretary L. Donnelly called the meeting to order at 9:57 a.m. Mayor Elmslie, Deputy Mayor McDonald, Councillor Richardson, E. Danziger, M. McGregor, K. Molloy, and P. Sanderson were in attendance.

Staff Present: Director J. Johnson, Manager of Parks and Recreation R. Smith, and Recording Secretary L. Donnelly.

1.1
Appointment of Chair

 

Recording Secretary L. Donnelly made the first Call for nominations to the Chair Position.

P. Sanderson was nominated.

P. Sanderson accepted the nomination.

Recording Secretary Donnelly made a second and third call for nominations.

No nominations were put forward.

  • KLPAC-001
    Moved ByMayor Elmslie
    Seconded ByE. Danziger

    That P. Sanderson be elected Chair of the Kawartha Lakes Parks Advisory Committee.

    Carried

1.2
Appointment of Vice Chair

 

Chair Sanderson made the first Call for nominations to the Vice Chair Position.

M. McGregor was nominated.

M. McGregor accepted the nomination.

Chair Sanderson made a second and third call for nominations.

No nominations were put forward.

  • KLPAC-002
    Moved ByCouncillor Richardson
    Seconded ByDeputy Mayor McDonald

    That M. McGregor be elected Vice Chair of the Kawartha Lakes Parks Advisory Committee.

    Carried

2.
Administrative Business

 

2.1
Adoption of Agenda

 
  • KLPAC-003
    Moved ByK. Molloy
    Seconded ByMayor Elmslie

    That the agenda be amended to include item 5.5.7 Washburn Island, and adopted as amended.

2.2
Declaration of Pecuniary Interest

 

There were no declarations of pecuniary interest disclosed.

2.3
Adoption of Minutes - October 10, 2024

 
  • KLPAC-004
    Moved ByDeputy Mayor McDonald
    Seconded ByCouncillor Richardson

    That the minutes of the Parks Advisory Committee meeting held on October 10, 2024, be adopted as circulated.

    Carried

3.
Deputations/Presentations

 

There were no deputations or presentations.

4.
Correspondence

 

There was no correspondence to receive.

5.
New or Other Business

 

5.1
Annual Report to Council

 

Chair Sanderson advised that the annual Parks update report written by staff was received by Council in March.

5.2
Impact of Ice Storm

 

Manager Smith advised that Supervisor of Forestry and Horticultural, along with Director Johnson, have organized the storm debris clean up in urban areas. This is approximately fifty percent complete, and crews will be moving up to the North area this week.

All tree hazards on ball diamonds have been removed and they are ready for use.

High use parks have had all tree concerns addressed and crews will address hazards in the remaining parks starting next week.

Multiple contractors have been working on cleaning up debris and removing hazards along all trails. Many sections have reopened and work is ongoing. Staff are doing trail inspections now to ensure there are no remaining hazards and it is expected all trails will be open for National Trails Day on June 7.

The majority of our active cemeteries have reopened to the public and storm clean up is approximately eighty five percent complete.

  • KLPAC-005
    Moved ByK. Molloy
    Seconded ByE. Danziger

    That the information provided by Manager Smith outlining the ongoing clean up efforts and the impact of the ice storm be received.

    Carried

5.3
Current Park and Trail Project Updates

 

5.3.1
New Turf Specialist

 

Parks and Recreation has added a Turf Specialist who has begun working on irrigation, splash pad opening preparations, and over seeding of sports fields. The addition of this position will allow for better management, maintenance, and long term planning of our sports fields and park areas.

5.3.2
Pinewood Park, Pontypool

 

Manager Smith advised the pathway bases have been laid, dog fencing will be installed next week, and full park renovations are expected to be complete by the end of May.

5.3.3
Juniper Park, Fenelon Falls

 

Manager Smith advised that pathway bases are complete, playground components are on order, and tree planting will take place in the fall. This is a nature based sensory park that has been renovated in cooperation with a local group who have provided fundraising and grant funding to help cover the costs of it's components.

5.3.4
Centennial Park, Kirkfield

 

Site reviews are underway at Centennial Trailer Park to complete detailed designs and an action plan for required work and park improvements.

5.3.5
Memorial Park, Lindsay

 

Roadway curbing and base coat is being installed now. The City will continue to work with user groups to lessen the impact on bookings and provide a phased reopening to the park. Shelters one and two are available for use now. Shelters three and four are being replaced over the spring/summer.

5.3.6
Rainbow Bridge, Lindsay

 

Bridge restoration is complete. Although the encampment near the bridge is on private property staff are working with CKL Outreach team to support individuals living in that space. While graffiti is an ongoing challenge Parks staff are working together with Public Works to mitigate and clean up the area as needed.

5.3.7
Bobcaygeon Beach Park Boat Ramps

 

Docking has been installed for summer and boat launches are available.

5.3.8
Sylvester Park, Lindsay

 

Through a recent Council report funding for Sylvester Park was put in place and a detailed design is currently being finalized. Construction is estimated to start in spring of 2026.

5.3.9
Rivera Park, Lindsay

 

The boat launch extension has been completed and drainage concerns have been resolved. Parking changes are expected with the construction of the Colborne Street bridge project and staff will work with engineering to make adjustments as needed. The new sidewalk is fully accessible and visibility has been improved. Trail improvements are currently underway.

5.3.10
Nayoro Park, Lindsay

 

Pathways to the north are now complete. Armour stone has been installed and final restoration will follow. New stainless steel handrails will be installed soon. Roadway work to resurface and improve drainage has been awarded and is scheduled to start in July.

5.3.11
Arbor Court, Janetville

 

Staff have been working on a design concept and a 2026 budget request for park improvements will follow.

5.3.12
Logie Street Lilac Legacy Garden, Lindsay

 

Bed maintenance has begun and the gardens are doing well. With Council support we have increased forestry and horticultural staff allowing us to manage and maintain garden beds more efficiently. Logie Park now also has dedicated students for the summer season to manage ongoing maintenance within the park.

Manager Smith advised that the former Lilac Committee has disbanded. The increase of horticultural staff allows us to better support horticultural societies and manage gardens throughout CKL.

New stone steps and a rope rail will be installed on the hill area near the slide to help maintain the grass area. Accessible pathways will be available as well.

Thanks to the winter weather the skating trail was available from December through to March this year.

  • KLPAC-006
    Moved ByCouncillor Richardson
    Seconded ByE. Danziger

    That Manager Smith's updates on agenda items 5.3.1 through 5.3.12 be received.

    Carried

5.4
Status of Proposed Park Projects and Community Feedback

 

5.4.1
Ops Community Park Space

 

Staff are currently preparing an application to the Ontario Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund for the work to be done at Ops. A detailed design has been completed and will be requested in the 2027 capital budget. Commencement of project will depend on if grant funding is received.

  • KLPAC-007
    Moved ByCouncillor Richardson
    Seconded ByK. Molloy

    That Chair Sanderson provide a letter of support on behalf of the Kawartha Lakes Parks Advisory Committee for inclusion with the Ontario Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure fund application made by the Parks division.

    Carried

5.4.2
Pioneer Park, Lindsay

 

Concept designs are complete and staff are scheduled to meet with the Ministry of Environment to ensure all requirements and any concerns about building on the former landfill site are resolved. Staff are also working closely with a Monitoring and Evaluation Consultant to assist with any concerns.

5.4.3
Omemee Beach Park

 

Detailed design work is underway for fall 2025 construction. Park will see improvements to pathways and lighting, beach reconstruction, and a new canopy component. Space for a future splash pad will also be provided.

5.4.4
Jennings Creek Trail, Lindsay

 

This trail will connect development north of Wilson Fields to Angeline Street and the Victoria Rail Trail. Final design is expected end of May and will include two bridge structures allowing connections to Springdale gardens. Once design is received staff will move forward with Indigenous consultation and work with Kawartha Conservation to obtain any required permits. Construction should commence in the fall.

5.4.5
Wilson Estate Projects, Lindsay

 

In 2024 Wilson Estate provided funding support for Pioneer Park. Staff will continue to work closely with the Wilson Estate Advisory Committee for upcoming projects where Estate funding may be eligible.

5.4.6
Cameron Park Renewal

 

Facility booking received a request for use of the ball field and Cameron Park for a new men's league. This area had seen little use in recent years so staff have prepared the field, applied screenings, and prepared the park for use. This location provides a great alternative for overflow from Wilson Fields.

5.4.7
Queen's Square, Lindsay

 

There is a detailed design complete for Queen's Square and there will be a 2026 capital budget request to complete the work.

  • KLPAC-008
    Moved ByMayor Elmslie
    Seconded ByDeputy Mayor McDonald

    That Manager Smith's updates on agenda items 5.4.1 through 5.4.7 be received.

    Carried

5.5
Potential Park and Trail Projects

 

5.5.1
Dedicated Pickleball Centre

 

Staff are continuing to work with the Pickleball Association for provision of courts. Installation of four courts at the Fenelon Township Community Centre in Cambray will be included in the 2026 capital budget. Staff have advised the Association that more courts will be dependent on funding and hope that the Association can find ways to contribute.

The court space at the Little Britain Community Centre is being redone into four pickleball courts this year.

Staff are looking into models to better support pickleball players for memberships and scheduling use of pickleball courts.

5.5.2
McAlpine Beach Park, Verulam

 

Design is complete for an upgrade to this area to include new playground components, covered picnic tables, and other park enhancements. Staff are looking at better curbing and ways to direct traffic to facilitate boat and trailer parking.

5.5.3
Outdoor Artificial Rink

 

Chair Sanderson gave some background on a local community member who is working towards the installation of a covered outdoor rink in Lindsay. Discussions have taken place with local Councillors and Fleming College to look at possible locations, discuss partnerships, and investigate funding sources.

5.5.4
Purchase of Land for Future Parks

 

Manager Smith advised that staff look at all development applications from a park and trail use perspective and work with developers to provide land for park or trail use, or if no suitable land is available cash in lieu is requested to support parks close to the development and help create trail connections for residents.

Staff also provide landscape comments to development applications to ensure suitable plantings and natural areas are implemented.

5.5.5
Cricket Pitch at Optimist Park, Lindsay

 

Chair Sanderson advised that with the growth in Lindsay there is increased interest in the provision of a cricket pitch. The Optimist club is working with residents on a proposal for a pitch on the existing Optimist site. Players would like to host weekend tournaments which would bring tourists into Lindsay and be a significant economic driver for the local business.

5.5.6
Other

 

Deputy Mayor McDonald inquired about George Street Park in Lindsay as the Boys and Girls Club are interested in utilizing this space. Manager Smith advised improvements to the park are outlined in the South Lindsay Parks Master Plan and have been included in the City's long term financial plan for implementation. Changes, as outlined in the master plan, will include construction of an assembly sized soccer pitch, playground and pavilion infrastructure, and a dedicated parking area. Trail connections will be provided from Mary Street to the park.

Councillor Richardson advised she is working with developers in Bethany and has requested lots be designated parkland for the Bethany Community Park. A request has also been made to Hydro for capital funding for the build. Manager Smith would work with developers to ensure there are trail connections to the Victoria Rail Trail (VRT) and the subdivision.

Mayor Elmslie inquired about community garden requests. Manager Smith advised that staff are looking into a pilot garden on Hamilton Street with access to water and raised beds for accessibility. Councillor Richardson advised that there will be a community garden at the Pontypool Community Centre as well.

5.5.7
Washburn Island

 

Mayor Elmslie requested information about a concern he received from a resident regarding upgrades to the park on Washburn Island. Manager Smith advised this location did receive engineered wood fiber recently and the playground is inspected regularly with no deficiencies being noted. He will follow up with the area supervisor regarding the concern and about future park plans and report back to the Committee.

  • KLPAC-009
    Moved ByMayor Elmslie
    Seconded ByCouncillor Richardson

    That the information provided on agenda items 5.5.1 through 5.5.7 be received.

    Carried

5.6
Park Use Concerns

 

5.6.1
Colborne Street Reconstruction and Traffic Concerns

 

Manager Smith is working closely with engineering to ensure any impact to park areas within the Colborne Street construction are managed efficiently. While both Kent Street and Colborne Street are schedule for reconstruction this year they will be staggered to lessen traffic impacts.

5.6.2
Wilson Fields and Optimist Park Parking Expansion

 

Due to the construction on Colborne Street an area of Wilson Fields close to highway 35 will be used as a staging area for contractors. Chair Sanderson inquired about the possibility of this being a future parking site once that reconstruction is complete. Manager Smith advised that is something that will be looked at and that there will be a request in the 2027 capital budget for increased and improved parking at Wilson Fields.

5.6.3
Dogs

 

Chair Sanderson thanked staff for the installation of signage regarding scooping and keeping dogs on leash. Optimist members have noticed a significant improvement in both concerns since the signs were installed.

5.6.4
Encampments

 

Manager Smith advised that staff meet weekly with Human Service's Outreach team to help manage homelessness and encampments in park areas. The changes to the policy have had a significant impact on where encampments are located, and support for those in need.

5.6.5
Parks and Recreation Use of Surveys for Economic Development Purposes

 

Chair Sanderson commented on the benefit of using surveys at sporting events to obtain feedback from the Community. Manager Smith advised that they are currently working with By-Law and Economic Development on a program to track trail usage and staff are installing trail counters in the near future.

5.6.6
Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan, Expansionary Plan, and Parks Master Plan

 

Manager Smith advised that these documents are the guiding documents for future planning and for the inclusion of project requests in the capital budget. Staff work closing with asset management to ensure all park related items are in the long term financial plan and to determine funding sources.

  • KLPAC-010
    Moved ByDeputy Mayor McDonald
    Seconded ByM. McGregor

    That the updates provided on agenda items 5.6.1 through 5.6.6 be received.

    Carried

6.
Next Meeting

 

Next meeting will take place on July 10th, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.

7.
Adjournment

 
  • KLPAC-011
    Moved ByMayor Elmslie
    Seconded ByDeputy Mayor McDonald

    That the Parks Advisory Committee Meeting adjourn at 11:40 a.m.

    Carried
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