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Ms. C.Jie, resident, appeared before
Commission and spoke on several matters. Ms. Jie is a resident of North
Burnaby and wanted to express her appreciation for Willingdon Linear Park.
Ms. Jie, enjoys the connectivity of neighbourhoods that has been brought
about by the park and the walkability that has been introduced to that area. Ms.
Jie expressed concerns that some of the trees that were planted appear to be
dying and that the grass is patchy in areas.
Staff advised that there is regular
maintenance scheduled for the area and that the dead trees would be replaced
by the supplier in the near future.
Ms. Jie expressed concern that
during the spring and summer months there are not enough yard waste pick up
dates. Ms. Jie would like to see additional dates introduced during the
gardening season.
Staff advised that this falls under
the Engineering Departments scope of work and they would refer her request to
that department.
Ms. Jie, joined by resident Ms. C.
Rorosec, expressed concern regarding the lack of Aquafit instructors
and the many Aquafit classes that have been cancelled for this reason. Ms.
Jie advised that the cost of becoming an Aquafit instructor is prohibitive
for many, as instructors who want to work at the City of Burnaby must take a
number of additional courses and be certified as a Lifeguard in order to
teach Aquafit. Ms. Jie and Ms.Rorosec, would like to see the City look at
ways to create incentives for staff to take the Aquafit Instructor course.
Suggestions put forward were:
- Wage premiums
- Pay for courses
- Hire Contract Instructors who
do not need to have LifeGuard certification
Staff thanked Ms. Jie and Ms.
Rorosec for bringing the matter to the forefront. Staff advised that while
they are governed by the rules of the collective agreement, in regards to
Contract Instructors, they are aware of the shortage of staff in recreation
all over the province. Staff further advised that the Human Resources
Department has put additional resources into recruitment and they have had
several Career Fairs focused on Recreation.
Staff undertook to look at ways that
would make the Aquafit shifts more enticing to staff.
Mr. J.McNeil, resident, expressed
concern regarding the condition of the tennis courts at Central Park. The
courts are in need of resurfacing.
Staff advised that as the courts are
built on the reservoir they are subject to surface cracks and require additional
maintenance. The Central Park Courts are scheduled for maintenance in August
of this year.
Ms. K. Alkins-Jang, appeared before
Commission to provide accolades regarding the Bonsor Yoga program. The
instructors demonstrate patience and inclusiveness, offer options for
beginners through to advanced and are always willing to answer questions.
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