(Report dated June 24, 1998, addressed to Etobicoke Community Council, the Acting Commissioner.)

Subject:Alderwood Memorial Park Playground, Ward: Lakeshore-Queensway

Purpose:

Respond to the request to upgrade the play equipment at Alderwood Memorial Park through our Joint Playground Cost Sharing Policy.

Source of Funds:

There are no funds available at this time.

Recommendations:

It is recommended that:

(1)Council receive this report;

(2)approve a $20,000.00 per year funding allotment in our Development and Improvement Budget for the continuation of the former City of Etobicoke Playground Upgrade Policy; and

 (3)pending approval of these funds, Alderwood Memorial Park playground upgrade be a priority for installation in 1999.

Council Reference/Background/History:

On October 30, 1995, the former Etobicoke Council approved a policy on cost sharing for upgrades to playground equipment between the City and local communities. This policy is as follows:

(1)A written indication of interest from the community group be submitted to Administration Committee.

(2)City must approve all designs and equipment must meet Canadian Standards Association guidelines.

(3)All equipment to become property of City of Etobicoke. Maintenance and liability to be assumed by the City of Etobicoke.

(4)The City of Etobicoke will pay up to a maximum of 50% of the total cost to a maximum subsidy of $10,000 per park, subject to the availability of funding.

(5)Community funds must be guaranteed prior to equipment being purchased.

(6)The City of Etobicoke will coordinate purchase and installation of all equipment.

Comments:

The former City of Etobicoke has previously funded this program through a Capital Reserve Account Number 60007. The funds in this account are now depleted after seven very successful community playground upgrades.

We currently have two formal requests before us, one from the Alderwood Memorial Park Community and one from a group representing the Marie Curtis Park Community. The Marie Curtis Park proposal is being funded through a former Metro account and, pending Council approval and community funding, may be constructed in the fall of 1998. The other formal request is that of the Alderwood Memorial Park Community which request, pending Council=s approval of funding, will be given priority for installation in the spring of 1999.

Conclusion:

Our Parks staff fully support the Alderwood Memorial Park project and pending Council approval of funds, Parks staff will assist this group in equipment selection and competitive procurement of the playground structure.

Council approval of $20,000.00 yearly funding will allow at least two communities each year to partner with the City in this very successful program. All formal requests will be handled on a first come, first basis until funding is exhausted. This program will give children the opportunity to enjoy modern and challenging play spaces.

Contact Name:

Paul G. Ronan, Director, Parks and Forestry

Toronto, Etobicoke Region

Telephone Number: 394-8505Fax: 394-8935