The issue: Pemberton is one of the fastest growing communities in BC and is home to one of the youngest demographics in the province. We can't overstate the need to have many diverse, accessible and affordable recreational options for the area’s residents.
The challenges: Funding, plain and simple. Everything has a price tag. I’m certain we can all list a number of recreational amenities we would love to see in the Valley, from a pool to baseball diamonds, an arena and more. Bringing together the funds in a way that is affordable for taxpayers is, without a doubt, one of the biggest hurdles to providing these services. Having said that, it is a hurdle we have cleared before and can clear again. It is paramount that we understand the ongoing operating costs of future facilities and the taxpayers’ ability to bear the burden of costs all while looking at business models that could have the ability to generate revenues.
What has been done: Over the last few years we have built the Friendship Trail and bridge and supported sustainable trail development wherever possible. We secured the recreation lands on Pemberton Farm Road East. On these lands we have built two new beautiful soccer fields and recently opened a mountain bike skills park. Next to the soccer fields, an amenities building is being built in spring 2023 that will house change rooms, a space for concession, storage etc… As you drive through town, you can see a newly constructed, full-sized outdoor basketball court across from the community centre. These projects were all made possible through funding achieved by grants, donations from community groups, amenity contributions from developers, and partnering with the Regional District all have had very little cost to the taxpayer. Finding funds this way takes considerable time and advocacy and we have proven that it works. I will continue to work in this way. Our recreation department works hard and continues to expand services at the current facilities, working hard to offer diverse and responsible recreational programming.
What’s next: First up is to secure funding to build a baseball diamond. Next up, it’s going to be time to involve the community and have a conversation about our vision for future recreation in the Valley, especially around indoor services. A pool and arena have long been on the wish list and up ‘til now they have been unaffordable for our community. Construction costs and also due to the ongoing maintenance costs of pools and arenas. As we are growing and community needs are changing it’s important that we revisit our Pemberton Recreation Master Plan from a few years ago. Together as a community we come up with a vision which includes; where to put efforts, informs what gets done next and how it's achieved. Once that vision is agreed upon, I will be committed to look in every corner and knock on every door to find funding to make that vision an affordable reality for Pemberton. Recreation is vital to a healthy community. The recreational assets and services offered need to match the growing population.
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