Parks Master Plan

Update: the Phase 2 engagement summary is now available.

Thank you for participating in the Phase 2 engagement activities for the North Saanich Parks Master Plan. The findings from the community survey, second open house, and written correspondence have been compiled into an engagement summary document. See the Phase 2 Engagement Summary here.

These findings will shape the final updates and direction for the Final Parks Master Plan, which will be presented to Council in fall 2024.

The draft of the Parks Master Plan (PMP) is now available for the public to review.

The PMP includes a vision statement, goals, objectives, park trends, best practices, and updated park analyses. It offers 40 recommendations for planning, capital improvements, partnerships, and communications.

We are now in Phase 2 of gathering public feedback on the Draft PMP to prioritize recommendations for the next ten years. The PMP will be reviewed every five years, with major projects requiring Council approval. The final plan will guide capital budgeting and include a phased implementation strategy.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

We encourage you to read the Draft Parks Master Plan and Appendix A Mapping before completing the survey.

Between May 28- July 19, you can:

• Complete the survey by July 19, 2024 at 11:59 pm.
• Prefer a printed copy? Download, print and email the completed survey to parksplan@northsaanich.ca. You can also pick up a copy at the Municipal Hall and submit to the front desk. (1620 Mills Road, North Saanich, BC V8L 5S9)

PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE

• On June 26, 2024 please join us for a Public Open House at Municipal Hall from 3:00-6:00 pm.

ABOUT THE PLAN

The PMP for North Saanich is intended to provide strategic guidance for parks policy, planning, and development, focusing on environmental protection and preserving the rural character of the community. The plan started with an assessment of the park system, resulting in a State of the Parks report and environmental desktop study.

Phase 1 of the public engagement, involving surveys and stakeholder sessions, shaped the community vision and priorities outlined in the Draft PMP. See the Parks Master Plan Phase 1 Engagement Summary Here.

BACKGROUND

The 2022 District of North Saanich Strategic Plan identified a review and update of the 2010 Parks Master Plan. In 2022 staff created a Terms of Reference and consultant scope, and engaged appropriate stakeholder in order to obtain feedback prior to issuing a Request for Proposals. The Terms of Reference and the Consultant Scope were presented to the following stakeholders:

• Community Stewardship Commission at the September 27, 2022 meeting
• Friends of North Saanich Parks via email on October 17, 2022, and at a meeting on November 3, 2022
• Friends of Dominion Brook Park via email on October 17, 2022

At each of the meetings the Terms of Reference and Consultant Scope were generally discussed, feedback received, and revisions incorporated. At the Regular Meeting of Council held on December 5, 2022, Council approved the Terms of Reference and Consultant scope and directed staff to proceed with a Request for Proposals.

At the Regular Meeting of Council held on May 15, 2023, Council authorized the award of consulting services for the Parks Master Plan to Urban Systems.

QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS?

Email: parksplan@northsaanich.ca