The Town of Gravenhurst now has a Parks, Recreation, and Trails Master Plan.
Tuesday, Gravenhurst council members approved the plan, which includes short, medium, and long-term recommendations to meet the needs of the community over the next decade.
“Planning for our future is important and this document will help guide us as we go forward,” Mayor Heidi Lorenz said. “I want to thank our residents, community organizations, council members, and town staff for their input into creating the plan.”
Council, during the 2022 capital budget process, earmarked funding for the development of the plan.
Following a request for proposals process, the town hired Monteith Brown Planning Consultants to oversee the project.
The plan, of which a draft was presented to council in March, includes 73 recommendations.
“Priority and timing have been identified for each recommendation, which has a phased implementation to ensure the plan is financially achievable,” said Shawna Patterson, interim director of recreation. “Many recommendations involve creating or updating policies and practices. Several recommendations will have cost implications which we will address through the annual budget process. The plan is a living document and will be reviewed and adapted annually to remain current.”
There are five goals for council and staff to keep in mind during the implementation of the plan:
- Inclusive recreation for everyone.
- Outdoor opportunities year-round.
- A connected and engaged community.
- Healthy, green, and sustainable.
- Innovation and service excellence.
“These goals are designed to reflect the expectations shared by the community during our public consultation,” Patterson said. “In addition, staff will continue to engage with the public throughout the implementation of the recommendations where communication and input are required.”
