The presentation provided an overview of the history and current condition of Kin-Bruce Park from the perspective of current and former residents of the neighborhood.
The presentation noted that Kin-Bruce Park has seen minimal improvements over the past 50 years. Existing amenities include a ball diamond and playground, but many facilities, such as teeter-totters and picnic tables, have been removed through the years.
Residents suggested that the park has been subject to neglect, with efforts by local residents to grow trees facing challenges due to poor soil. Additionally, parts of the park have been used by the township for storage of outdoor materials used in the parks and for construction projects.
The presentation noted that Huron-Kinloss has not created new parks in over 50 years, despite a population increase of 36%. The residents suggest the Parkland report contained inaccurate calculations, and the amount of parkland per resident is significantly below the average compared to neighboring municipalities.
Residents expressed concerns that Kin-Bruce Park is too small to serve the growing community, especially with new developments, and that the park despite being in poor condition is used regularly. They requested that the Township commit to revitalizing the park and suggested using funds from recent developments for improvements.
The residents called for the Township to prioritize the development and revitalization of parkland to meet the needs of the community. They expressed a willingness to collaborate with the Township on these efforts.
Staff provided information to Committee of the Whole regarding the calculations within the p.lural Parks report. The consultant has informed staff that the numbers are incorrect in the final version of the report and this section of the report will be brought back to Council with the appropriate changes.
Staff confirmed that Crimson Oak parkland fees were less than $1000 per lot and that Kin-Bruce Park improvements are included within the projected 2027 capital budget. Prior to that project moving forward, engagement within the community would take place to determine what type of improvements would be brought forward for Council consideration. Committee encouraged Staff to capitalize on the enthusiasm of the residents as demonstrated within the presentation.
Committee of the Whole noted that equipment that does not meet standards is required to be removed from parkland. Committee noted that Council did not go looking for the proposed Dome project to put in parkland and reminded residents that the proponent had suggested that location for Council to consider.