Parks and Recreation: Operating Overview 2020 Review and 2021 Outlook 2020 Review: The Parks and Recreation department’s operating budget was impacted by COVID-19. With Provincial Regulations ordering the closure of recreation facilities at times throughout the year, and limited indoor and outdoor capacities, facility usage and program participations were reduced. Efforts were made where possible to decrease operating expenditures and monthly budget updates were provided to the Finance Department. The portion of OMPF funding distributed to the Parks and Recreation Department has been allocated to reserves to aid in any shortfalls of the department if required. The first round of emergency funding through the Safe Restart Agreement with the federal government will also help with some of the operating pressures the Municipality of North Perth experienced related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Framework for Reopening Recreation Facilities is attached to the last page of this overview. Details within the framework are subject to change based on updated provincial restrictions. Canadian Parks and Recreation Association highlights that past crises have proven that parks and recreation are one of the first and most crucial services to return to communities. Parks and recreation play a critical role in the mental and physical health recovery of citizens and play an equally important role in community economic revival. Access to recreation facilities and programs is a fundamental service for Canadians that will usher in a return of normalcy after COVID-19, especially for children and seniors. Facilities: Indoor and outdoor facilities were ordered closed mid-March to mid-June and again at the end of December; when permitted to reopen under Phase 2 (Stage 2 on June 12; Stage 3 on July 17 for Huron Perth Region), it was under restrictions and with limited capacities. Usage reduced by: • • • •
Arenas 32.6% - restricted numbers and format of skating programs Halls 69.9% - restricted numbers affected meetings, weddings, events and galas Ball Diamonds 86.9% - restricted numbers and format of play Pavilions 90.4% - restricted numbers and protocols
Though not booked with our department, ball diamonds, parks, sports fields and playgrounds were observed to be used by families over the Summer and Fall.
