SUMMER 2020
Five urban walks to take this summer Page 23
Navigate the City’s permit process Pages 4-5
Our safety guide to backyard fires Pages 26-27
stjohns.ca
CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
1
City Council Mayor Danny Breen 576-8477 dbreen@stjohns.ca DannyBreenNL DannyBreenNL
Deputy Mayor Sheilagh O’Leary 576-8363 soleary@stjohns.ca sheilagholeary OLeary
Ward 1 Councillor Deanne Stapleton 576-2332 dstapleton@stjohns.ca deanneforWard1 deannestapleto2
Ward 2 Councillor Hope Jamieson 576-7144 hjamieson@stjohns.ca HopeforWard2 HopeforWard2
Ward 3 Councillor Jamie Korab 576-8643 jkorab@stjohns.ca jamiekorab.ca jamiekorab jamie.korab
Ward 4 Councillor Ian Froude 576-8217 ifroude@stjohns.ca ianfroude IanSFroude
Ward 5 Councillor Wally Collins 576-8584 wcollins@stjohns.ca
Councillor at Large Maggie Burton 576-8286 mburton@stjohns.ca mmburton maggieatlarge
Councillor at Large Dave Lane 576-8243 dlane@stjohns.ca DaveLaneStJohns.ca DaveLaneTweets DaveLaneStJohns
Councillor at Large Sandy Hickman 576-8045 shickman@stjohns.ca SandyHAtLarge sandy.hickman.18
Councillor at Large Debbie Hanlon 576-8219 dhanlon@stjohns.ca DebbieHanlon1 Debbie.Hanlon2
Information and stories about the programs and services of the City of St. John’s; produced quarterly and distributed via mail to all households in the capital city. If you do not wish to receive unaddressed mail including the City Guide, put a note on or in your mailbox stating you do not wish to receive Canada Post Neighbourhood Mail™. If you continue to receive unaddressed advertising after you have placed the note on your mailbox, submit a service ticket at canadapost.ca or call Canada Post Customer Service at 1-866-607-6301.
2
CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020
Permits............................................. 4-5 Roads and Traffic............................... 6 Waste and Recycling..................7-11 Water Conservation..................12-13
City Guide
Editor-in-Chief: Susan Bonnell Design: Scott Courage
Contents
Managing Editor: Shelley Pardy communications@stjohns.ca
Recreation...................................14-22 Five Walks to Take...........................23 Community Gardens...............24-25 Summer Fire Safety..................26-27 Ask a Vet............................................28 Engagement..................................... 31
A Message from the Mayor We are all facing what may be our greatest challenge ever. COVID-19 has changed the way the entire world operates, and our municipality is no different. Ensuring we meet the advice and requirements of public health officials has meant changes in almost every service we provide to the public, from access to public buildings and facilities to waste collection and other essential services. Our very special thanks to the essential workers – some of whom work for the City – for keeping our community safe, fed and protected during this difficult time. In developing the City Guide four times annually, our goal is to provide you with the most timely, critical and valuable information you need about City programs, services and events. Developing this summer’s Guide has been, without a doubt, our most challenging edition to date. Content for the Guide is being developed months in advance of the publication and distribution date. For this summer edition, we edited content right up to the print date of May 1 to ensure the content is as accurate as possible, however there are still many unknowns as we head toward the summer months. What level of recreation programming will we be able to offer residents this summer? Will our pools and playgrounds reopen? Will we be able to return to regular schedules for waste collection? At the time of printing, we do not know this information. Despite the uncertainty, we are continuing to prepare for the eventual release of some of the restrictions put in place to protect the public during this health crisis – and part of that preparation includes sharing registration dates and other information with you so that, when we can, we are all ready to face “the new normal.” I encourage you to stay up-to-date on City programs and services by verifying important dates and program offerings on our website; we are also updating the local media and posting on our social media platforms the most current and accurate information. Thank-you for your patience and understanding. As I have said before, while we may feel isolated and apart, we are all in this together.
Danny Breen Mayor of St. John’s
CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
3
Take out the guess work: Get a permit before you begin By Randy Carew Manager of Regulatory Services, City of St. John’s Home renovations and construction projects can be stressful enough. Getting a building permit for your project can give you peace of mind and save you headaches in the long run. The last thing you want, if you are building a shed for instance, is to find out after it’s complete that you’ve built it on an easement. Think of the stress and expense of having to move it after-the-fact! The City of St. John’s permitting process takes the guess work away. Our staff is there to help, to answer your questions and to give you the information you need to get your job done right the first time. Our staff will look over your plans before you even begin. They know the approved standards for your area, the zoning requirements and all of the ins and outs of municipal and provincial regulations that can impact your project. When you talk with our building inspectors before you start, they can do the double checking for you and put your mind at ease. Once the project is underway, our building inspectors will visit your construction site at scheduled points in
4
CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020
the project to make sure that your construction is up to code. The schedule is laid out clearly on the back of your permit; simply contact Access St. John’s (see back cover) to schedule your inspection. If you are doing the renovation yourself, our inspectors can be a valuable resource for you as questions arise. Ask us anything - we are here to troubleshoot the challenges you face along the way. An inspector is in the office from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays to help you, or call Access St. John’s (see back cover) anytime with permit questions or to book a site visit. We can be at your location in 24 to 48 hours.
What requires a permit? If you are unsure or question if you require a permit for work you plan to undertake, contact Access St. John’s (see back cover). The most common types of projects we receive permit requests for include: • adding an apartment to your home • building or changing your deck, fence or shed • building a new house or structure • demolition projects • renovating or extending your house • installing a heat pump or mini split
Obtaining a permit for your project is a win/win The City’s primary concern is that construction projects are built to standards that keep our residents and visitors safe and keep St. John’s beautiful. But we can use your permit far beyond just the approval and inspection process. Did you know that the City tracks all building and renovation permits to use as an indicator of economic prosperity and to forecast changes to our future budget requirements? Permits help us determine the growing pressures on our roads, transportation, water and utilities, and permits are also used to determine the growing value of homes in your neighbourhood. When it comes time to sell, permits can be your best friend. Not only will you know what your home is worth, but buyers will know the job has been done right, resulting in a potentially smoother, faster sale for you.
Four types of permits offered by the City of St. John’s
Building Permits… Required for all new construction, extensions, structural changes, floor layout changes, relocation of existing buildings and occupancy changes.
Repair permits… required for all repairs or renovations to existing buildings for which a building permit is not required.
Plumbing Permits…
Electrical Permits…
required for all new plumbing installations and can only be issued to a licensed and qualified plumbing contractor.
required for all electrical work, and can only be issued to a licensed and qualified electrical contractor.
CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
5
Roads & Traffic Downtown Street Cleaning Street cleaning removes dirt and debris from streets, reduces the amount of debris going into storm sewers and prevents damage to infrastructure. Scheduled street cleaning occurs until Thursday, September 24, 2020 The downtown street cleaning schedule is pre-determined for the entire season. Streets may not be cleaned on their scheduled date(s) due to parked cars, extreme weather or mechanical breakdowns. If your street is not cleaned on a scheduled date, we will clean it on the next scheduled date.
Find out when your street will be cleaned: map.stjohns.ca/ StreetClean Find out what streets are scheduled for cleaning each night. All streets are listed and shown on a map. The colours indicate if it’s both sides of your street or just one (odd or even house numbers).
Searchable street list Search by address or date so you know where and when not to park in an area. Find the list at stjohns.ca>Quick Links> Street Cleaning
Subscribe to our e-update Receive an email, including a map, on the day your street is scheduled for cleaning at stjohns. ca> Quick Links> e-updates
Not online? Call Access St. John’s at 311 or 709-754-CITY (2489) to get your street cleaning dates or request a paper copy.
6
CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020
Waste & Recycling Changes in programs due to COVID-19 Due to the COVID-19 pandemic we have adjusted or suspended several of our waste collection programs and services. Visit curbitstjohns.ca for the most up-to-date information on services including: • Curbside recycling • Yard waste • Compost information sessions • Bulk & metal • Residential Drop Off at Robin Hood Bay
Put Waste In Its Place Wondering if something is recyclable? Use ‘Put Waste In Its Place’, on our app or website. Just type the name of an item and it will tell you how to recycle or properly dispose of it - it’s that easy.
Learn your curbside waste collection schedule at curbitstjohns.ca/schedules.
Please consider signing up to receive reminders of your waste collection or alerts of any changes to it. You choose when you receive reminders and how, including by text message, email or automated phone call.
Download our app St. John’s Waste and Recycling for all the same useful information and features as our website, including the Put Waste In Its Place item search.
You can also learn your waste collection schedule and have your questions answered by contacting Access St. John’s at access@stjohns.ca or 311 or 754-CITY (2489).
CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
7
Mulch your Leaves and Grass Mulching is the earth-friendly approach to disposing of leaves and grass. It does wonders for your lawn!
Save Time, Money, and your Back No need to rake your grass clippings, buy bags, or lug the bags to the curb. By mulching-in-place you save time and money.
What else can I do with fallen leaves? Dig leaves directly into your garden to add organic matter and nutrients to the soil. Put leaf mulch on gardens and flower beds and around shrubs and trees.
Soil Enrichment Grass and leaf mulch puts nutrients back to the soil. Your lawn and garden will require less fertilizer and other additives.
Water Conservation Grass and leaf mulch helps to retain moisture in soils. When soil is covered with mulch, the mulch lowers the soil’s exposure to sun and wind which reduces evaporation.
Insulation Mulch acts like an insulating barrier from the heat in the summer, from the cold in the winter and from the wind all year round. Mulch prevents compaction and erosion of soils from wind and rain.
Weed Control Mulch can help prevent the growth of weeds. Add a thick layer - 5 to 7.5 cm (2 to 3�) - to gardens to reduce the need for herbicides.
Tax Savings No disposal fees are charged to the City for yard waste, therefore allowing for a more efficient use of your tax dollars. 8
CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020
Add 2.5 cm (1 inch) layers of leaf mulch to your composter while alternating with other materials or use a separate composter for leaves only. For a leaf composter, alternate 15 cm (6 inches) of leaf mulch with a 2.5 cm (1 inch) layer of soil or finished compost and maintain by turning it regularly and keeping it moist. Rake regular or mulched leaves into a 90 cm (3 foot) pile in the corner of your yard. If leaves are dry, dampen with water. Turn the pile a few times in spring and summer to speed up the decomposition process which can take up to 12 months.
Get Started on Backyard Composting Using compost is the best way to fertilize your garden and lawn to promote the growth of healthy plants and grass. Backyard composting lets us recycle just like nature does. In nature, nothing is wasted or thrown away. Instead insects, worms and microorganisms decompose dead plants, returning valuable nutrients back to the earth and allowing other plants to grow.
Make compost by layering brown and green materials
Whether you are new to backyard composting or a veteran composter, you can find valuable information and tips on how to properly backyard compost from the experts: Curb It St. John’s: curbitstjohns.ca/recycle/backyard-composting Multi Materials Stewardship Board: rethinkwastenl.ca/food-waste/backyard-composting
Greens (fresh & moist) fruit & vegetable scraps coffee grounds & tea bags egg shells, plant cuttings fresh cut grass
MUN Botanical Garden: mun.ca/botgarden/learn/compost.php
Browns (dry & fibrous) dry leaves, dry grass shredded paper torn up cardboard
NEVER add animal products chemicals weeds & invasive plants
Yard Waste
As of the print deadline of this Guide, the yard waste collection program is suspended. Check the status at curbitstjohns.ca or curbit@stjohns.ca.
CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
9
Curbside Recycling 1
RECYCLE IN THREE SIMPLE STEPS
Sort it
y Sort recyclables into containters and papers. y Rinse food containers and milk cartons.
PAPERS
y Remove straws from containers and wrap, plastic or Styrofoam from boxes.
Remember to rinse containers. EYE CARE
2
CONTAINERS
Bag it
y Place paper and cardboard in one see-through blue bag and containers in another.
PAPERS
3 y Put your blue bags at the curb on your recycling day.
10
CITY GUIDE | WINTER 2020
Curb it
CONTAINERS
Four Things to Recycle at the Curb Cardboard Cardboard is a valuable commodity and is in high demand in recycling markets. These days more cardboard is being generated, much of it using recycled content, because of the increase in the delivery of items from online shopping.
Put in your blue bag: Shipping boxes Shoe boxes Banker/file boxes Appliance boxes
Aluminum Aluminum is one of the more sustainable packaging choices; recycling aluminum cans uses about 95% less energy and produces 95% less greenhouse gas emissions than using all new metal.
Put in your blue bag: Pop and beer cans Aluminum foil pie plates Other aluminum food containers
Steel Steel can be recycled infinitely with no loss of quality. Two-thirds of all new steel comes from recycled steel which is used to make new cans or other steel materials like beams, automotive parts of appliances.
Put in your blue bag: Soup cans Canned tomatoes & sauces Bean tins Tuna fish cans Pet food cans
#2 HDPE High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) plastic is very strong and is in high demand by manufacturers of plastic lumber, corrosive free piping, plastic bottles and toys. HDPE plastic has the number 2 as its resin identification code; look for the triangular-arrows recycling symbol with the 2 inside it. Recycling HDPE keeps it out of the landfill where it will never break down.
Put in your blue bag: Windshield wash containers Laundry detergent bottles Household cleaning product containers Medicine & supplement bottles
CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020
11
Water Conservation Every drop of water we consume must be treated, and that costs money. We are all responsible to use water efficiently for both the environment and our pocketbooks. Since 2002 a Water Conservation Order has been in place to ensure wise water use, especially during the summer when outdoor water consumption increases. When can I use a sprinkler on my lawn? Even house number 6 to 8 a.m. 8 to 10 p.m. Tuesdays & Saturdays Odd house number 6 to 8 a.m. 8 to 10 p.m. Thursdays & Sundays
Keeping our water clean The City of St. John’s has protected watersheds to ensure a clean, safe supply to provide potable water. Our water supplies are not recreation areas, any time of year. Windsor Lake and Broad Cove River, Bay Bulls Big Pond and Petty Harbour Long Pond provide the water used by almost 200,000 people in the northeast Avalon. Help us protect the safety and quality of your drinking water, all year round. In our watershed areas, including any of the ponds or waterways in them, do not: • fish • swim • boat (canoe, inflatables, etc.)
When can I use a hose with a shut-off nozzle? You can water your garden, wash your vehicle or clean your siding or windows ANYTIME as long as you use a hose with a shut-off nozzle.
Other restricted activities within our watersheds include: • cutting wood • use of motorized vehicles
When can I water my new lawn?
• camping
Once you register with the City by calling Access St. John’s at 311 or 754-CITY (2489), you will be able to water your new lawn between 6 and 8 a.m. and 8 and 10 p.m. every day for 60 days after the installation of your new lawn.
If you walk a dog in watershed, keep them on a leash and pick up and properly dispose their waste.
12
CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020
• fires
COVID-19:
Is My Tap Water Safe to Drink? Is my tap water safe to drink? Yes, the City of St. John’s water is safe to drink. The World Health Organization (WHO) states the “presence of the COVID-19 virus has not been detected in drinkingwater supplies and based on current evidence the risk to water supplies is low.” Our treatment water processes ensure we meet the Canadian Drinking Water Quality Guidelines which includes the requirement of inactivation of viruses. Chlorine is used to disinfect our water and is extremely effective in destroying viruses. To ensure your water continues to be safe as it travels through all the underground pipes, we maintain a chlorine residual in our distribution system that is checked daily through various sample locations.
Can I get COVID-19 from my wastewater? The WHO has stated “there is no evidence to date that COVID-19 virus has been transmitted via sewerage systems, with or without wastewater treatment.” Please remember to not flush cleaning wipes down the toilet, even if the packaging claims they are ‘flushable’. Only the three P’s should go in the toilet - Pee, Poop and (toilet) Paper. Disinfecting wipes and other items should be properly disposed of in the trash, not the toilet.
These wipes and other items do not break down in sewer or septic systems and can damage your home’s internal plumbing as well as local wastewater collection systems. As a result, flushing these wipes can clog your toilet and/or create sewage backups into your home or your neighbourhood. Additionally, wipes can cause significant damage to pipes, pumps, and other wastewater treatment equipment. Sewer backups can be a threat to public health and present a challenge to our water utilities by diverting resources away from the essential work being done to treat and manage our nation’s wastewater.
Our Water Treatment Plant Operators, Water Quality Laboratory Technologists and Water Distribution Operators are monitoring our treatment process 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to ensure you have safe water to both drink and to wash your hands.
CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
13
Recreation Registration Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the uncertainty of physical distancing requirements in the coming months, the City of St. John’s summer programs may be postponed, adapted for reduced capacity or cancelled at any time. For the most current program and service offerings please visit stjohns.ca/RECconnect.
Summer Programs & Aquatics Lessons
St. John’s residents
Residents of other municipalities
7 a.m., Thursday, June 4
7 a.m., Tuesday, June 9
Registration Options Online: stjohns.ca/RECconnect In person (if permitted, check our website or email recreation@stjohns.ca) y H.G.R. Mews Community Centre, 40 Mundy Pond Road y Paul Reynolds Community Centre, 35 Carrick Drive
Open or update your RECconnect account before registration day. Call 576-8499 or online at stjohns.ca > Quick Links > RECconnect.
Wish List
Add the courses you want to your wish list for quick access on registration day.
Waitlists
Our waitlist is not prioritized. If a spot becomes available, all on the waitlist are contacted by email and the spot is filled on a first come, first served basis.
14
CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020
Program Ages To register for most programs participants must be the age listed on December 31, 2020.
Cancellation The City, at its discretion, may cancel programs at any time including but not limited to low registration and/or instructor availability.
Application deadlines for REAL and Inclusion Support: Program
Deadline
Fall Programs
July 17
Winter Programs
Nov. 17
Rent a Facility City facilities can be booked for a variety of functions including baby or bridal showers, family gatherings, community/corporate events or sports activities. Facility
Details
H.G.R. Mews Community Centre 40 Mundy Pond Road 576-8499
y Gym y Kitchen y Multi-Purpose room
Paul Reynolds Community Centre 35 Carrick Drive 576-8631
y Gym y Multi-Purpose room
Kenmount Terrace Community Centre 85 Messenger Drive 576-6112
y y y y
Southlands Community Centre 40 Teakwood Drive 364-5129
y Multi-Purpose room y Kitchen y Meeting room
Shea Heights Community Centre 130 Linegar Avenue 576-1023
y Multi-Purpose room y Kitchen
Kilbride Lions Community Centre 34 Fahey Street 368-0250
y Multi-Purpose room y Kitchen
Cabot 500 Theatre Bowring Park recreation@stjohns.ca
y Outdoor theatre accommodates 750
Rotary ‘Sunshine’ Park Chalet Thorburn Road recreation@stjohns.ca
y 24 bunk beds y Kitchen y Outdoor barbeque
Foran/Greene Room City Hall civicfunctions@stjohns.ca
y Up to 325 people, depending on seating arrangement y Kitchen
Gym Kitchen Multi-Purpose Room Meeting Room
For details on programs and services visit: stjohns.ca > Living in St. John’s > Recreation and Parks > Community Programs
Birthday Parties Swimming and Gym parties
y H.G.R. Mews Centre y Paul Reynolds Centre Costs range from $140 to $260. Call 576-8499 or 576-8631.
Gym parties y y y y
Kenmount Terrace Centre Shea Heights Centre Southlands Centre Kilbride Centre
Contact the centres for fees and availability.
Racquetball Courts
HGR Mews Community Centre Book a 40 minute session by calling 576-8499. Equipment rentals $3, with a deposit of $20 or photo ID. Cost per person Drop-in $4 5 game pass $17.50 10 game pass $30
CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
15
Inclusive Services Do you require support to participate in City of St. John’s recreation and leisure programs? To learn more about how we can help, or to learn more about any of the programs and services listed here, contact us.
Accessible Playground Equipment Accessible playgrounds are located in Bowring Park and Kenmount Terrace Community Centre.
Contact us For more information about any of these programs or services: 576-4450 inclusion@stjohns.ca
• Bannerman Park
Inclusion Support deadlines: see page 14
• Penney Crescent
Accessible swings are located in playgrounds at: • Bowring Park • Paul Reynolds Community Centre • Froude Avenue • McNiven Place • Spruce Meadows
Therapeutic Recreation Referrals Therapeutic Recreation promotes safe and supportive recreation and leisure opportunities for participants with physical, mental, social or emotional barriers. Participants may be referred by a professional or selfrefer. Attendant Pass People with disabilities who require the support of an attendant to accompany them to events may apply for an attendant pass. Adaptive Equipment Loan Program We have equipment that can assist people with disabilities to participate in recreation and leisure activities. Contact us to borrow equipment.
16
CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020
• St. Mary’s (near school) • Beothuk Street Financial Support Financial support is available for those facing financial barriers to participate in City of St. John’s Recreation Division activities. Requests for children and youth are referred to the REAL Program.
For more detail visit: stjohns.ca > Living in St. John’s > Recreation and Parks > Inclusive Services
REALize Potential The REAL program was created in 2002. It’s a non-profit program started by the City of St. John’s with individuals from various sectors working with families facing financial barriers. The need to create opportunities for all children to experience the benefits of participation and belonging was a catalyst for REAL. The City of St. John’s provides office space and staff support so that 100% of all funds raised or donated go to the cost of the program. These funds are then reinvested back into community as children and youth attend local activities. REAL’s vision is to provide opportunity for children and youth facing financial barriers to participate in recreation, music, dance, art, sports, leadership and learning programs. REAL’s mission is to break down barriers to recreation by providing registration fees, transportation and equipment to children and youth.
Donations to REAL are accepted and appreciated at any time of the year. There are several ways to make a donation and become a REAL supporter. For more information or to become a donor: 576-8684 or 4556 real@stjohns.ca stjohns.ca/real REAL Program, City of St. John’s P. O. Box 908 St. John’s, NL A1C 5M2 REAL Support deadlines: See page 14 To learn more visit: stjohns.ca > Living in St. John’s > Recreation and Parks > REAL Program
The REAL program encourages diversity amongst our participants. We accept applications from children and youth, up to age 18, of all abilities and demographics. It is important children and youth realize their potential; the REAL program aims to foster a sense of belonging, boost self-esteem, improve confidence and shine hope into the lives of our participants.
CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
17
Create great memories ® at camp with HIGH FIVE Look for the HIGH FIVE® mark of quality when choosing your child’s program.
You’ll notice the HIGH FIVE® difference when you ask your child these 5 questions Principle: A Caring Leader Tell me what you like best about your leader? Principle: Friends Did you make any friends? Principle: Play Did you have fun? What was your favourite part/activity? Principle: Mastery Did you learn to do something new or get better at something? Principle: Participation Did you feel bored? Was there always something to do?
www.HIGHFIVE.org
HIGH FIVE® is used by organizations across Canada. CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020 programs that are safe, welcoming and respectful to the individual needs of each child. It helps18 organizations deliver high quality
Splash Pads The City of St. John’s has three outdoor splash pads that are scheduled to be open July 2 to September 7: • Bowring Park • Bannerman Park • Kenmount Terrace Community Centre We practice water conservation at our splash pads and they use retreated, recirculated water. To ensure wise water use and that we aren’t unnecessarily treating water that no one has been playing in, the water features at our splash pads are set on a four-minute timer. This means they run for four minutes and then the water shuts off until you push the button to reactivate it.
Sports Facilities The City of St. John’s has outdoor sport fields and pitches typically available for rental from June to mid-October. For details or to inquire about rentals or an application form: • Email recreation@stjohns.ca • stjohns.ca > Living in St. John’s > Recreation & Parks > Recreation Facilities > Rental Information
CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
19
Swimming Indoor pools Paul Reynolds Community Centre, 35 Carrick Drive H.G.R. Mews Community Centre, 40 Mundy Pond Road
As of the print deadline of this Guide, City pools are closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Check:
Outdoor pools, (scheduled open July 2 to Aug. 30) Bowring Park Bannerman Park
Call the swim & fitness lines: • Paul Reynolds Community Centre, 576-8155 • H.G.R. Mews Community Centre, 576-8408 • Bannerman Park Pool, 576-7671
All pools have accessible pool lifts
Online stjohns.ca > Quick Links > Swim Schedules
• Bowring Park Pool, 576-7708 Email recreation@stjohns.ca Outdoor Pools
Age
Indoor Pools Drop-in
10 pass
20 pass
30 pass
2 years and under
Free
Free
n/a
Youth 3-18 & Senior 65+
Free
$3
$27.50
$50
$67.50
Adult 19+
Free
$4
$37.50
$70
$97.50
Family
Free
$3 adults, $2 children
Steam/Sauna (Mews only)
n/a
$3
n/a
Swim Descriptions
Children under 8 must be supervised by a 16+ year-old who must remain in the water at arms-length. Maximum 3 children to 1 supervisor.
Lane Swim
Everyone Welcome Swim
Leisure Swim
Choose the appropriate lane (slow, medium, fast) based on ability. Recreation space may or may not be available depending on the number of lanes in use.
Enjoy a fun-filled aquatic environment! Open to all ages. Toys and diving board available. Splash pad and slides available at PRCC.
Open to all ages. An ideal time to play or relax in the leisure pool! Toys, splash pad and slides available.
Book a swim for your day camp
Bookings begin for St. John’s groups on Wednesday, June 10, and Friday, June 12 for groups outside St. John’s, by emailing recreation@stjohns.ca Available dates: Mews & PRCC (indoor pools), June 29 to September 4 Bowring & Bannerman (outdoor pools), July 2 to August 28
10:45 to 11:30 a.m. 2 to 2:50 p.m.
20
Monday Bowring Park Bannerman Park
Tuesday Bowring Park Bannerman Park
Wednesday Bowring Park Bannerman Park
Thursday Bowring Park Bannerman Park
Friday Bowring Park Bannerman Park
Paul Reynolds Mews
Paul Reynolds Mews
Paul Reynolds Mews
Paul Reynolds Mews
Paul Reynolds Mews
CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020
Clean Water
Healthy Swimming
Please follow these easy steps for a clean and healthy pool:
1
Don’t feed your children 2 hours before swimming.
2
If your child has diarrhea, please don’t send them swimming.
3
Take your child to the bathroom before swimming.
4
Make sure your infant/toddler wears a properly fitted swim diaper and please check diapers every 30-60 minutes.
5
Shower before entering the pool and avoid swallowing pool water.
Let’s keep it clean, we’re all in this together. w w w. s t j o h n s. c a
CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
21
Fitness Dryland & aquatic fitness is for ages 16+. Wristbands must be worn by everyone in drop-in fitness sessions; receive your wristband from the front desk staff. As of the print deadline of this Guide, drop-in fitness classes are on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Check: • Call the Swim and Fitness Lines: 576-8408 (Mews) and 576-8155 (PRCC) • Online stjohns.ca > Living in St. John’s > Recreation and Parks > Fitness • Email recreation@stjohns.ca
Volunteer Junior Recreation Leader Designed to provide youth ages 14+ with a workplace educational experience mentored by one of our caring recreation practitioners. We provide fun-filled atmosphere designed to challenge youth by developing self-respect and a sense of camaraderie through team building. The next session is scheduled to take place July to August 2020. Application form: stjohns.ca > Living in St. John’s > Forms and Applications > Recreation
VOLUNTEER TODAY! Give back to your community and build relationships with others all while having fun. For more information or for a Volunteer Application contact us. 576-8630 volunteer@stjohns.ca
22
CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020
g n i eer t n olu
V@
5
urban walks to take this summer
Whether you are a visitor, a newcomer or a tried and true townie, check out these walks in our city that will get you moving and enjoying the sights and sounds of St. John’s this summer. y Bidgood Park: there are nearly 4 km of groomed accessible walking trails with a 200-metre section of wetlands boardwalk. A typical looped walk is 2 km and takes 30 minutes. The park features a dog park, picnic and rest areas as well as interpretive signage. y Mundy Pond Loop: a great trail for a lunch break stroll. This accessible 1.9 km loop will take 30 minutes and is a favourite of fitness minded folks and birdwatchers alike. It is level and well groomed. y North Head Trail: this 1.6 km challenging trail immediately descends from Signal Hill parking lot with many stairs. This hike offers rugged coastal scenery and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Narrows and St. John’s harbour. The walk is 60 minutes. Be careful of uneven terrain and narrow cliffside paths. y Rennie’s River Trail: this 3 km nature trail starts at the head of Quidi Vidi Lake and continues upstream along the Rennie’s River to end at Long Pond. The 50 minute walk takes you through beautiful St. John’s neighbourhoods and a wooded valley. y South Brook: this 1.6 km nature walk will take 30 minutes and spans the full length of Bowring Park. The walk crosses a deep gorge and is always within sight and sound of South Brook.
The Grand Concourse A network of trails from Signal Hill in the east, through the cities of St. John’s and Mount Pearl, and to Octagon Pond in Paradise in the west. The entire Grand Concourse was completed with approximately 125 kms of walkways, linkages and connecting sidewalk routes. This walkway network has received local and international attention and is considered among the finest walkway systems in Canada. Maps and trail information available at: grandconcourse.ca
CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
23
Paul Reynolds Community Garden The Paul Reynolds Community Garden began in the summer of 2018. In its second year the garden expanded to include nine additional beds and two wheelchair accessible beds, as well as fruit trees and a shared herb garden; it was a successful growing season for all our gardeners. The Paul Reynolds Community Garden has a diverse group of participants from first time
gardeners, to long-time backyard gardeners and newcomers, to St. John’s who have lifelong farming backgrounds. Once regulations around social distancing due to COVID-19 pandemic allow, we are planning to make garden space available at the Kilbride, Shea Heights, Southlands and Kenmount Terrace Community Centre’s – contact us to learn more.
These initiatives are part of the City of St. John’s Healthy City Strategy and contributes to the existing network of community gardens across St. John’s. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of St. John’s will continue to support community garden initiatives while abiding by social distancing regulations, and take all precautions, including closures if necessary, to ensure that community gardens are safe for participants.
Get involved Community gardens are important places in neighbourhoods that typically allow residents to build social connections with people of different backgrounds while growing their own food. To ensure residents still have safe spaces to grow their own food during the COVID-19 pandemic, community gardens must abide by social distancing, provide accessible places for hand washing and ask
24
CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020
gardeners to bring their own tools from home. Healthy City St. John’s is seeking volunteers to serve on a garden committee to contribute to the planning, promotion and care of the Paul Reynolds Community Garden. During the COVID-19 pandemic, committee meetings & activities will abide by social distancing regulations.
The PRCC garden committee will: • plan new additions to the community garden (garden beds, benches, pathways, etc.); • promote the community garden; and • generally care for the community garden (garden prep, weekly cleanup of tools, winterizing the garden etc.).
Meet our Community Gardeners Emad, Nidal and Haiyan were among the first to join the Paul Reynolds Community Garden when it began in 2018. “I love to garden, it gives me a feeling of home,” said Emad. “I used to garden my father’s land in Syria and I wanted to test my gardening skills with the soil and weather of Newfoundland. “Gardening is really needed in this province and it’s always good to find places, like the Paul Reynolds Community Garden, so you can take part. It’s also a good place to find others who have similar interests that you can share knowledge and skills with.” “I want to feed my family fresh vegetables and I like watching my plants grow, just like my children. I had great success growing fava beans at the Community Garden. I made lots of meals using fava beans and also gifted some to my friends,” said Nidal. Haiyan is a newcomer who lives close to the Paul Reynolds Community Centre.
“My children take swimming lessons at the Centre so it’s convenient for me to frequently visit and tend to my plot at the Community Garden. “I was not very experienced at gardening but being involved with the Community Garden has been a good start to learn more about it, for me and my kids,” said Haiyan. “We’ve successfully grown carrot, peas, green onion and tomato - our favourite are the fresh, sweet carrots. “I’ve learned a lot of gardening skills at the Paul Reynolds Community Garden. The information session was a big help to get me started and learning growing tips and tricks from other gardeners helps too.
Emad loves to garden as it reminds him of his home where he used to garden his father’s land.
“It’s a good feeling during summer to watch plants grow in your own garden plot. I think it’s a great family activity and a good education for all of us, plus we have fun and it’s wonderful that we get fresh and healthy vegetables from it.”
Starting a Community Garden
If you’d like to learn more about starting your own community garden there are several locally developed resources that can help: • Best Practices, by Food First NL. www.foodfirstnl.ca/resources • Guide for Community Gardens on City-Owned Land, by City of St. John’s at stjohns.ca > Living in St. John’s > Your City > Healthy Communities
Contact us:
healthycommunities@stjohns.ca 576-8628
Nidal wanted to test his gardening skills with the soil and weather of Newfoundland and had great success growing fava beans. CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
25
Summer Fire Safety Open Air Fires
Outdoor Fireplaces
To comply with the provincial government ban on open fires the St. John’s Regional Fire Department will not issue permits for open fires until the ban is lifted.
The provincial government ban on open fires does not extend to outdoor fireplaces. Using outdoor fireplaces such as firepits and chimineas that are purchased, installed and used according to the manufacturer’s instruction is permitted.
Contact us: Fire Prevention Division 576-3905 fireprevention@stjohns.ca sjrfd.ca @SJRFD
Use of suitable outdoor fireplaces in St. John’s is permitted if: • only seasoned wood is burned • wind speeds are not in excess of 25 km/hour • smoke does not cause an annoyance to adjacent properties Outdoor fireplaces must be: • Installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions • Located at least three meters from any building, structure or other combustible material
Be Fire Safe
• Capable of completely containing and enclosing the fire
SJRFD urge everyone to be fire safe when using grills, barbeques and firepits and to keep a hose or fire extinguisher handy.
• Equipped with a spark arrestor or a screen to prevent sparks and embers from escaping
Please ensure to fully extinguish the fire when you are finished.
26
CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020
• Placed on a firm, level surface with a non-combustible base beneath it that extends at least a half meter completely outside the perimeter of the fireplace • Always supervised by an adult with access to a fire extinguisher, bucket of water or another water source while operating
Charcoal Grilling Charcoal Grilling Charcoal Grilling If you use a starter fluid, make sure you only use
If you usestarter a starter fluid, make sure you onlyfluid use charcoal fluid. Keep charcoal starter If you use a starter fluid, make sure you only use out of charcoal fluid.and Keep charcoal fluid out of the reachstarter of children away from starter heat sources. charcoal starter fluid. Keep charcoal starter fluid out of the reach of childrenstarter and away from heat sources. Never add charcoal fluid, or any other flammable the reach of children and away from heat sources. Never add charcoal starter or any other liquids, to the fire once it is fluid, lit. Never leave theflammable barbecue Never add charcoal starter fluid, or any other flammable liquids, to the fire once it is lit. Never leave the barbecue unattended. liquids, to the fire once it is lit. Never leave the barbecue unattended. unattended. When you are finished grilling, let the coals completely cool When you are finished letcontainer the coals completely before disposing them grilling, in a metal a metalcool lid, When you are finished grilling, let the coals with completely cool beforefrom disposing them in anything a metal container with a metal lid, away the home and that can burn. before disposing them in a metal container with a metal lid, away from the home and anything that can burn. away from the home and anything that can burn.
Propane grilling Propane Grilling Propane grilling Propane grilling If you live in an apartment or condominium building, check
If youthe live in an apartment or condominium building, check with management or board to learn if barbeIf you livebuilding in an apartment or condominium building, check with the building management or board to learn if barbecues or grills are permitted, and what the provisions are for with the building management or board to learn if barbecues or grills are permitted, and what the provisions are for propane cylinder storage. cues or grills are permitted, and what the provisions are for propane cylinder storage. propane cylinder storage. Only use grills outdoors. Follow the manufacturer’s installaOnlyinstructions use grills outdoors. Follow thehave manufacturer’s installation to make sure you it in a location that Only use grills outdoors. Follow the manufacturer’s installationenough instructions to make sure you have itoverhangs, in a location that has clearance from combustible decks, tion instructions to make sure you have it in a location that has enough clearance from combustible overhangs, decks, walls, fences, etc. and always keep your grilling area clear of has enough clearance from combustible overhangs, decks, walls,and fences, and always your grilling area tree shrubetc. branches and keep leaves, or anything elseclear that of walls, fences, etc. and always keep your grilling area clear of treecatch and shrub branches and leaves, or anything else that can fire. tree and shrub branches and leaves, or anything else that can catch fire. can catch fire. the grill, clean it by removing grease or fat Before lighting Beforeup, lighting the the grill, cleantrays. it by removing grease or fat build including Before lighting the grill,catch clean it by removing grease or fat build up, including the catch trays. build up, including thelid catch trays. Always make sure the is open before lighting it, and keep Always make sureat the lid isthree openfeet before it, and children and pets least awaylighting while you lightkeep it Always make sure the lid is open before lighting it, and keep children andcooking. pets at least three feet away while you light it and during children and pets at least three feet away while you light it and during cooking. and during Never leave cooking. your grill unattended. Never leave your grill unattended. Never leave check your grill Periodically theunattended. propane tank hose for leaks. An easy Periodically check the propane tank hose forrub leaks. easy way to do this is to make a soapy water and thatAn over the Periodically check the propane tank hose for leaks. An easy way to is to make soapy water andIf rub that hose – ifdo it this is leaking thereaawill be bubbles. there is aover leakthe way to do this is to make soapy water and rub that over the hosethe – ifgrill it is isleaking there willpropane be bubbles. If there is aleak leak and lit, turn off the and grill. If the hose – if it is leaking there will be bubbles. If there is a leak and the grillthe is lit, turn off theby propane and grill.before If the leak it stops, have grill serviced a professional and the grill is lit, turn off the propane and grill. If the using leak stops, If have the grill serviced by call a professional before using it again. the leak does not stop, 911. stops, have the grill serviced by a professional before using it again. If the leak does not stop, call 911. If thegoes leak does not stop, callgrilling, 911. turn the grill and Ifagain. the flame out while you are If the goesatout while you are grilling, turn the grill gas offflame and wait least 15 minutes before re-lighting it. and Ifand If the flame goes out while you are grilling, turn the grill gas off andgas wait at least 15 minutes beforemove re-lighting it. If you smell while cooking, immediately away from gas off and wait at least 15 minutes before re-lighting it. If you smell gas while cooking, immediately move away from the and call 911. cooking, DO NOT immediately MOVE the grill. yougrill smell gas while move away from the grill and call 911. DO NOT MOVE the grill. the grill and call 911. DO NOT MOVE the grill. CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020 CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020 CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
25 27 25 25
Ask a Vet By Dr. Heather Hillier Veterinarian, City of St. John’s
I am often asked for my professional advice when it comes to pets and pet care. Here some of my most commonly asked questions about neutering.
Why do pet professionals always promote neutering a male cat? At the City’s Animal Care and Adoption Centre, we believe the number one reason to have male cats neutered is to help reduce pet overpopulation. Although your male cat can’t become pregnant, you have a responsibility to prevent him from fathering numerous unwanted litters.
Humane Services 576-6126 humaneservices@stjohns.ca @HumaneServicesStJohns
Are there any behaviours or other things that I will notice with a neutered cat?
Are there any health benefits to neutering a male cat?
Intact males have strong, foul smelling urine that is difficult to neutralize. Even if your male cat is using the litter box consistently, the urine smell will linger in the home. They are also significantly more likely to urinemark both inside and outside the home. As a bonus, neutered males are better at grooming themselves.
Neutered cats live longer, healthier lives.
Neutered cats roam and fight less.
• Mating behaviours lead to the transmission of various diseases.
Intact male cats have a strong instinct to mate, driving them to roam, defend territory and fight potential rivals.
• Intact males are four times more likely to get hit by a car. • Neutering significantly reduces or eliminates the risk of testicular and prostatic disease. Neutered cats are cleaner and smell better. Learn more about our Spay/Neuter Assistance Programs: stjohns.ca > Living in St. John’s > Animal Care and Adoption > Spaying and Neutering Your Pet
28
CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020
Are there any myths about neutering? Neutering DOES NOT: • Make your cat fat. • Change your cat’s personality. • Affect your cat’s play behaviour or drive to hunt.
Are you a newcomer to St. John’s? Looking for Employment Services?
Check out
MyNewStJohns.ca
W O N K GET TO ! S ’ N H ST. JO
US À O V Z E N APPRE SAINT-JEAN! ITRE A N N O C
City of St. John’s Welcome Centre
Continues to serve businesses, tourists and newcomers Business 576-8107 business@stjohns.ca @EconDevStJohns
Tourists 576-8106 1-844-570-2009 tourism@stjohns.ca
Newcomers immigration@stjohns.ca @StJohnsLIP
CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
29
Find us Online!
stjohns.ca engagestjohns.ca curbitstjohns.ca mynewstjohns.ca
@CityofStJohns @CurbitStJohns @AdmiralJohns @EconDevStJohns @StJohnsLIP
@CityofStJohns @CSJCityCouncil @SJRFD @HumaneServicesStJohns @KilbrideLionsCommunityCentre @SouthlandsCommunityCentre @KenmountTerraceCommunityCentre
CityofStJohns
@CityofStJohns
30
CITY GUIDE | SUMMER 2020
Let’s Talk About Sidewalk Snow Clearing There’s been a lot of public discussion about sidewalks this year, especially given the winter we’ve had. In the next few months, as part of budget planning, Council will decide on the future level of service for sidewalk snow clearing. We want your help to shape that decision. Through our public engagement efforts, we will create space for everyone to learn more about the current sidewalk snow clearing program and provide their feedback.
We want you to be part of our virtual public engagement process. Visit engagestjohns.ca, register to receive notifications so you can get a heads up when the process starts, and stay in the loop throughout the process. If you can’t participate online, call Access St. John’s at 311 or 754-CITY (2489) to find out how you can provide your feedback or email engage@stjohns.ca. We look forward to connecting with you soon on this topic.
Why create an account at engagestjohns.ca? Some people ask why they need to register at engagestjohns.ca to post their comments or actively participate in a public engagement process. The simple answer is that it helps you participate more fully in the process. Your registration means that we can stay in touch with you, keep you informed about the project, and send you updates periodically when new public engagement opportunities come up that you may be interested in.
By creating an account, you will receive the summary of what was heard during the engagement process and always receive notification of new engagement opportunities. If you have questions about the registration process, email engage@stjohns.ca
CITY GUIDE |SUMMER 2020
31
Questions? Concerns? . . . use these easy ways to reach the City • • • •
Download our app 311 St. John’s email access@stjohns.ca Submit online at stjohns.ca/contact-us Call 311 or 754-CITY (2489)