Date:

Tuesday, May 29, 2007

Place:

Anderson Room
Richmond City Hall

Present:

Councillor Linda Barnes, Chair
Councillor Sue Halsey-Brandt, Vice-Chair
Councillor Cynthia Chen (4:02 p.m.)

Councillor Bill McNulty
Councillor Harold Steves

Mayor Malcolm Brodie

Call to Order:

The Chair called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m.

MINUTES

1.

It was moved and seconded

That the minutes of the meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Committee held on Tuesday, April 24, 2007, be adopted as circulated.

CARRIED

NEXT COMMITTEE MEETING DATE

2.

Tuesday, June 26, 2007 (tentative date) at 4:00 p.m. in the Anderson Room.

CARRIED

PARKS, RECREATION AND CULTURAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT

3.

Referral Arising from the November 28, 2006 Submission from Richmond Arenas Community Association

(Report:  April 11, 2007, File No.:  03-1000-10-022, Xr: 0060-20-RACA1) (REDMS No. 2155017)

Kate Sparrow, Director, Recreation & Cultural Services responded to queries about the City’s operating agreement with the Richmond Arenas Community Association (RACA), providing the following information:

§   

a fixed fee to be paid back to the City is negotiated with RACA on an annual basis;

§   

the annual fixed fee amount is based on a review of the Richmond Ice Centre’s trends for the previous year including the facility’s usage and programs;

§   

the City and RACA each receive 50% of any revenues generated above the negotiated annual fixed fee;

§   

City staff meet with RACA on a monthly basis to identify improvements, and in many cases funding for improvements is supplied by both the City and RACA;

§   

maintenance costs are funded by the City, and capital improvements are negotiated and funded jointly by the City and RACA;

§   

sources of revenue for RACA include Stanley’s Bar and Grill, ice rentals, public skating, and concessions;

§   

as a result of a financial review process currently underway, a new formula for calculation of fees paid by RACA may be established.

Frank Claassen, 4348 Craigflower Drive, Chairperson for the Richmond Arena Community Association, referred to retained surplus funds, the history of payments made to the City, and the current operating agreement between RACA and the City.

Mr. Claassen indicated that RACA’s total capital expenditure in the previous two years was approximately $240,000. He highlighted several expenditures including purchases of tables, rink dividers, vending machines, steel boxes for security, ice edgers, and hockey nets; maintenance and repair of windows, doors, sliding board room, and walls; a height increase to the glass in the ice centre; a donation to the City of $7000 for the purchase of defibrillators as part of the City’s pilot project; and approval of $150,000 for a complete renovation to the kitchen of Stanley’s Bar and Grill.

Mr. Claassen stated that as a result of leasing the arena facility instead of purchasing it, the lease expenditure charged to the arena’s budget is creating pressure and inflation. If it was a capital lease, the interest would not be charged to the arena’s budget. He felt that the current accounting method skews and increases the cost of recreation programs, and indicated that an amortization charge in lieu of the lease charges would be acceptable.

Mr. Claassen also spoke about lease escalation clauses, repairs to the aging ice centre building, and other programs that are not subject to lease charges. He concluded by stating that programming costs of the arenas should not include the lease charge, and that removal of the lease charge would result in a reduction of City contributions.

Discussion ensued amongst Committee members and staff regarding implications of removing the lease from the arena’s budget, and the feasibility of creating a new formula including factors to be taken into consideration when creating the formula.

As a result of the discussion, the following referral motion was introduced:

It was moved and seconded

(1)

That staff provide a complete break down of the arena’s budget as a whole with details outlining the overall impact of:

(a)

removing the lease from the City’s Arena’s budget;

(b)

charging the lease to the City’s Capital budget; and

(c)

freezing the Richmond Arenas Community  Association’s operating fee.

(2)

That before the arena’s next annual budget is set, staff provide acceptable and legitimate alternative options for dealing with the lease, taking into consideration history and fairness to the Richmond Arenas Community  Association and other associations.

CARRIED

4.

Residency Requirements

(Report:  May 11, 2007, File No.:  11-7000-00-Vol 01) (REDMS No. 2221806)

It was moved and seconded

That a 60/40 ratio of Richmond residents/others for any public Richmond organization wanting to book recreation or sport facilities from the City be maintained, as outlined in the City of Richmond’s Policy 8701.

CARRIED

5.

True Sport Community Award Fund Allocation

(Report:  May 10, 2007, File No.:  03-1085-01-Vol 01) (REDMS No. 2230707)

It was moved and seconded

(1)

That the $5,000 True Sport Community Award grant be given to the Richmond Sports Council to be used to establish a Richmond KidSport™ Chapter to assist financially disadvantaged youth in the community to play sports.

(2)

That staff report back to the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Committee in one year’s time with an update on allocation and adequacy of funds for the Richmond Kidsport Program .

The question on the motion was not called, as in response to a question about promotion of this program amongst youth, advice was given by staff that other communities with kids sports chapters have raised awareness through recreational centres, schools, Ministry of Community and Social Services and advertising.

The question on the motion was then called, and it was CARRIED.

6.

Museum & Heritage Strategy

(Report:  May 1, 2007, File No.: 11-7000-03 ) (REDMS No. 2226834)

Jane Fernyhough, Manager of Heritage and Cultural Services introduced Consultants, Don Luxton and Janet Leduc from Donald Luxton and Associates.

Mr. Luxton spoke about Richmond’s growth and development, unique historical and heritage sites, and the City’s potential to become the prime museum and heritage destination in the Lower Mainland.

With the aid of a PowerPoint Presentation (on file, City Clerk’s Office), Mr. Luxton and Ms. Leduc highlighted several aspects of the Museum and Heritage Strategy including: the purpose and vision of the Museum and Heritage Strategy; Richmond’s current situation and organization; challenges facing museum services and Heritage conservation; and detailed objectives and recommended actions required to achieve the Strategy’s six goals.

Discussion ensued about how to reflect several of Richmond’s sites, private collections, schools, and the airport in the Museum and Heritage Strategy. Mr. Luxton indicated that the Strategy is designed to allow ongoing additions of new sites and experiences as they unfold. He then explained how the proposed museum would not only exhibit Richmond’s past, present and future, but also provide a dynamic and interactive space to consult the public about the City’s future.

In answer to a question about an implementation plan for the strategy, and size requirements for a new museum, staff advised that if the Strategy is approved by Council, the next step is to do a feasibility study addressing recommended size range, staffing requirements, and other challenges. Once started, the feasibility study will take several months to complete.

Jack Wong, Vice Chair of the Richmond Museum Society spoke in support of the Museum and Heritage Strategy, and shared two beliefs: that successful communities know when to change and need to have the ability to make that change; and secondly, he spoke about vision, stating that physically you cannot go where your mind has not been.

Graham Turnbull, Chair of the Richmond Heritage Commission, and Steveston Historical Society spoke in favour of the Museum and Heritage Strategy, and expressed his satisfaction about the Strategy’s content. He then suggested that the proposed museum be developed at the site where both  Richmond’s first gun club, and first City Hall were located.

Tracey Lakeman, Executive Director of Tourism Richmond expressed Tourism Richmond’s excitement about the Strategy, and spoke about how the Strategy presents opportunities for the community. Ms. Lakeman concluded by commenting that locating museums in one general area is beneficial and accessible to tours.

Loren Slye, Director of the Gulf of Georgia Cannery spoke in favour of the Museum and Heritage Strategy, feeling that it is necessary for the community. Mr. Slye spoke about the possibility of a museum of flight, and suggested 30 acres of land available on Sea Island as a possible location for development of a museum.

It was moved and seconded

(1)

That the Richmond Museum & Heritage Strategy consisting of vision, goals & objectives, dated May 2007, be endorsed as the guide for developing the Museum & Heritage sector in the City;

(2)

That an Implementation Plan be developed in consultation with Stakeholders; and,

(3)

That a feasibility study be carried out for a potential new Richmond Museum.

CARRIED

7.

Steveston Museum & Post Office

(Report:  May 3, 2007, File No.: 11-7141-01, xr: 01-0060-20-SHIS1 ) (REDMS No. 2227752)

It was moved and seconded

That the report regarding the Steveston Museum and Post Office (dated May 3, 2007, from the Director of Recreation and Cultural Services, and the Manager of Heritage and Cultural Services) be received for information.

The question on the motion was not called, as reference was made to an outstanding referral to the Planning Committee which could impact the Steveston Museum and Post Office site. It was suggested that no action be taken until a decision has been made regarding the outstanding referral.

Graham Turnbull, Chair of the Steveston Historical Society, expressed great concerns regarding Canada Post’s proposed changes to the Steveston Museum building, feeling that the Steveston Historical Society is not in a position to accommodate the changes. Mr. Turnbull stated that replacing Canada Post with Tourism Richmond could provide a viable option for retaining the building as a museum.

It was noted that the building was originally acquired by a neighbourhood improvement program, to operate the post office and museum, at which time, the post office was mandatory.

Discussion ensued about viable options for the museum building, the feasibility of the City operating the post office, and whether the Steveston Historical Society has the legal ability to make a decision to remove the post office from the building.

During the discussion several points were raised, including the following:

§   

Canada Post’s intention is to open a viable full service post office with postal boxes; having the City operate such a post office in the museum building would negate the museum exhibit;

§   

the Steveston Museum and Historical Society has not reached a formal decision, but will hold a meeting for members to vote on this issue;

§   

there is a long standing agreement between the City and the Steveston Historical Society for operation of the museum building;

§   

Canada Post has expressed concern regarding closure of the post office during the lunch hour;

§   

Canada Post is proposing extension of the current hours of operations;

§   

whether a City staff member could be placed to operate the post office during lunch breaks and after hours;

§   

if the Society’s contract with Canada Post is severed, and the post office is replaced by Tourism Richmond, the City would have the contract with Tourism Richmond, not the society.

Edith Turner, 3411 Chatham street, expressed concerns about the changes proposed by Canada Post, feeling that they would be extensive, expensive, and highly unachievable. Ms. Turner stated that Canada Post has the right to shut the post office down on their own accord, in which case the Society would not be able to continue operations, and the museum would fold.

Loren Slye, 11911 3^rd Ave referred to a previous conflict involving Canada Post and the Steveston Historical Society, which had resulted in favour of the Society. He urged Society members to re-examine the issue of maintaining the post office prior to voting, and encouraged the City to engage in strong negotiations with Canada Post. Mr. Slye concluded by suggesting that Steveston Community Centre staff be sent to the post office to provide coverage during lunch breaks.

Tracey Lakeman, Executive Director of Tourism Richmond indicated that as part of Tourism Richmond’s commitment to the preservation of Steveston’s heritage, they have purchased approximately $10,000 in bulk postage from the Steveston Museum and Post Office in the previous year. She felt having the Steveston Historical Society operating the museum in combination with Tourism Richmond would enhance the visitor experience, increase walk in Heritage tours and elevate Heritage in Steveston.

Councillor Steves spoke about preserving a post office within the museum building as a tourist attraction similar to Peggy’s Cove, and selling post cards, collectors stamps, and other merchandise to enhance the tourist experience.

Discussion ensued, and Ms. Lakeman expressed interest in operating a post office similar to Peggy’s Cove, and visitor’s centre within the Steveston Museum. Possible hours of operation would be year round; seven days a week; 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. during busy summer months; 10:00 am – 4:00 p.m. during winter months.

As a result of the discussion, it was agreed that the motion on the floor be amended to add the following as Part (2) “That staff liaise with the Steveston Historic Society to explore the most viable options for the Steveston Heritage Museum Building”

The question on the motion was not called, as further discussion took place regarding Tourism Richmond being a viable possibility however, it was agreed that a commitment not be made at this time, and that City staff and the Steveston Historical Society continue negotiations.

Further discussion took place about options for the museum, and the possible cancellation of the June 2007 promotion of a new postal outlet at the Super Grocer store in Steveston.

As a result of the discussion, the following referral motion was introduced:

It was moved and seconded

(1)

That staff meet with the owner of the Steveston Grocery Store to confirm it will be Canada Post’s new location for a post office in Steveston; and

(2)

That staff meet with Tourism Richmond to explore viable options for the Steveston Museum building and to speak to Councillor Steves about acquiring Heritage stamps and post cards.

CARRIED

The question was then called on the following amended motion,

“(1)

That the report regarding the Steveston Museum and Post Office (dated May 3, 2007, from the Director of Recreation and Cultural Services, and the Manager of Heritage and Cultural Services) be received for information;

(2)

That staff liaise with the Steveston Historic Society to explore the most viable options for the Steveston Heritage Museum Building”,

and it was CARRIED.

8.

Steveston Interurban (Tram) location

(Report:  May 10, 2007, File No.:  10-6510-05-Vol 01) (REDMS No. 2234365)

Jane Fernyhough, circulated the Location Evaluation Criteria (Schedule 1), which outlined the 16 criteria used in determining possible locations for the Tram.

Discussion ensued with Committee members expressing their views in support or against the possible locations. Many issues were discussed including security of the tram, staffing abilities, critical massing, size and ownership of the lane behind the Steveston Hotel, and the feasibility of operating the tram from the Britannia site and the Steveston Park site.

In answer to a question, Suzanne Greening advised that the Britannia Heritage Shipyard Historic Zone (NE corner) was recommended as the first choice location for the tram because of the site’s staffing ability, programming, events, and concerts, and critical massing.

Mayor Malcolm Brodie left the meeting at 6:55 p.m., and did not return.

Dave Fairweather, a resident of Steveston spoke against locating the Tram at the Britannia Heritage Shipyard site, feeling that the tram is not compatible, and would compromise the integrity of the historical site. He felt that the logical location is the corner of No. 1 Road and Moncton Street. He questioned if a public input process is planned or has taken place, and asked if any significant work has been done on the Tram. Mr. Fairweather also stated that the Britannia site does not have enough staff to take on responsibility for the Tram.

In answer to Mr. Fairweather’s inquires, staff advised that due to resources and location, no significant work has taken place on the Tram; and that an open house for public input is not part of the regular process for this type of project.

A discussion took place about the Steveston and No. 1 Road site, and Mike Redpath, Manager of Parks, Programs, Planning & Design advised that the site is limited for space due to the construction of the Steveston water park.

Bob Butterworth, a Steveston resident and member of the Britannia Heritage Shipyard Advisory Board felt that if refurbished, the Tram should remain stationary in its current location. He also advised the Committee that the Britannia Heritage Shipyard Advisory Board has not had an opportunity to discuss this issue.

Graham Turnbull, member of the Britannia Heritage Shipyard Advisory Board, spoke against locating the Tram at the Britannia Heritage Shipyard site. He also expressed frustration, stating that the City keeps adding artefacts to the Britannia site, and as a result, the completion date has been delayed. Mr. Turnbull referred to a five year plan for the Britannia Heritage Shipyard site that he felt was not being kept up, and stated that there is an insufficient number of staff and volunteers at the site. He concluded by expressing his view that the Steveston and No. 1 Road station is the best site for locating the Tram.

In answer to a question, staff clarified that the Britannia Heritage Shipyard Advisory Board provides advice on development and restoration of the entire site, and the Britannia Heritage Shipyard Society has limited itself to restoring the historic boats.

With respect to the Tram, staff advised that the City would construct the building, work on the restoration of the tram, and recruit volunteers and contractors. The City staff member overseeing this project is Bryan Klassen.

Councillor Chen left the meeting at 7:19 p.m.

Loren Slye, 11911 3^rd Ave spoke in support of locating the Tram behind the Gulf of Georgia Cannery and the hotel lane. He advised the Committee of an easement at the Gulf of Georgia Cannery, and suggested that as part of a static display, the barn at the Cannery could be made available for the Tram. He felt that locating the Tram at the Steveston Park site would interfere with the operations, and would be too close to a children’s play area.

Councillor Chen returned to the meeting at 7:21 p.m.

It was moved and seconded

That staff further investigate the options to move the Tram to the Lane between the Steveston Hotel and Gulf of Georgia Cannery. 

The question on the motion was not called, as further discussion ensued about having staff provide the Committee with more detailed information about the evaluation criteria, including comments and weight in terms of security, room for restoration, critical massing, and Heritage features for each of the top four locations listed in the report.

Further discussion took place about the Gulf of Georgia Cannery site being a federal government site, and the question of whether the federal government or the City would supply funding to restore and move the Tram to the Gulf of Georgia Cannery site was raised.

As a result of the discussion, the motion was WITHDRAWN.

The following referral motion was then introduced:

It was moved and seconded

That staff report back to the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Committee regarding the location of the Steveston Tram providing weighted evaluations in terms of criteria for the following four sites:

(1)

Britannia Heritage Shipyard Historic Zone (NE corner);

(2)

Steveston Park and No. 1 Road;

(3)

The lane between the Steveston Hotel and Gulf of Georgia Cannery; and

(4)

Garry Point Park.

CARRIED

9.

MANAGER’S REPORT

Mike Redpath reported that the Official Community Opening and Ribbon Cutting of the Steveston water park is taking place on Saturday, June 16, 2007 at 11:00 a.m.

Jane Fernyhough reported on the following two items:

The No. 5 Road Highway to Heaven has been short listed as one of the seven wonders of Canada, and is being featured on CBC’s The National.

The Chamber of Commerce Business Arts Committee, did an impact study on Arts and Heritage, and has received an ArtsNow grant of $20,000 to complete  cultural mapping and economic impact studies.

ADJOURNMENT

It was moved and seconded

That the meeting adjourn (7:41 p.m.).

CARRIED

Certified a true and correct copy of the Minutes of the meeting of the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services Committee of the Council of the City of Richmond held on Tuesday, May 29, 2007.

_________________________________

_________________________________

Councillor Linda Barnes
Chair

Shanan Dhaliwal
Committee Clerk