Staff Report to Parks Committee: 2575 Jeanine Drive Park Proposal

BACKGROUND:

In early 2022, City of Langford Parks staff were contacted by a group of neighbours from the Mill Hill Rd, Jeanine Dr. and Lone Oak Pl. areas, advocating for the construction of a park at 2575 Jeanine Drive. Since then, staff have met with the neighbourhood group on site to consult with them regarding their wants and concerns and to inform them on budget and planning processes. The neighbourhood group wishes to be included in the planning process through various engagement opportunities. Parks staff had historically (1998) identified this land for park development; however, a neighbourhood survey revealed that a park was not wanted at that time. 2575 Jeanine Drive was dedicated to the City as parkland through the subdivision of two lots on Mill Hill Rd. prior to incorporation in 1992. The property is .4 of an acre with a large area of similar grade closer to the road frontage, and a lower wetland area towards the rear of the property.

COMMENTARY:

Parks staff have again identified the need for a playground and open grass area in the Mill Hill neighbourhood and have received ample support from the nearby residents. Staff have developed a preliminary list of features based on conversations with the neighbourhood group and believe that most features (small playground, grass open area, environmental protection area) will be attainable in this location. However, the development of a site plan and design is required before committing to park features and estimated costing. At this time, staff is asking for the endorsement of committee to proceed with preliminary research regarding costing and design before requesting budget for construction in the Parks, Recreation, and Facilities budget in 2023.

FINNACIAL IMPLICATIONS:

There are no significant financial implications at this time. Costs will be incurred in accordance with approved Parks, Recreation, and Facilities 2023 budget.

OPTIONS:

Option 1

That the committee recommend that Council direct staff to proceed with preliminary research regarding costing and design and include funding for 2575 Jeanine Drive park construction in the 2023 Parks, Recreation, and Facilities budget.

OR Option 2

That the committee make no recommendation regarding 2575 Jeanine Drive at this time.

SUBMITTED BY:

Wolfgang Schoenefuhs, Parks Planning Coordinator

Concurrence:
Yari Nielsen, Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities.
Concurrence:
Donna Petrie, Senior Manager of Business Development and Events
Concurrence:
Will Ying-udomrat, Manager of Legislative Services
Concurrence:
Matthew Baldwin, MCIP, RPP, Director of Planning and Subdivision
Concurrence:
Michelle Mahovlich, P.Eng, P.Geo, Director of Engineering and Public Works
Concurrence:
Michael Dillabaugh, CPA, CA, Director of Finance
Concurrence:
Marie Watmough, Deputy Director of Corporate Services
Concurrence:
Braden Hutchins, Director of Corporate Services
Concurrence:
Darren Kiedyk, Chief Administrative Officer