September 24, 2013 - Minutes

Date:

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Place:

Anderson Room
Richmond City Hall

Present:

Councillor Harold Steves, Chair
Councillor Ken Johnston

Councillor Linda Barnes
Councillor Evelina Halsey-Brandt
Councillor Bill McNulty

Also Present:

Councillor Linda McPhail

Call to Order:

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

MINUTES

It was moved and seconded

That the minutes of the meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Committee held on Thursday, July 18, 2013, be adopted as circulated.

CARRIED

PRESENTATION

1.

Suzanne Haines, General Manager, Gateway Theatre, and Jovanni Sy, Artistic Director, Gateway Theatre, to present Gateway 2028.

With the aid of a PowerPoint presentation (copy on file, City Clerk’s Office), Jovanni Sy, Artistic Director, Gateway Theatre, accompanied by Suzanne Haines, General Manager, Gateway Theatre, highlighted the following information regarding Gateway 2028:

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Gateway 2028 is a fifteen year artistic vision divided into three five-year phases;

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Phase 1 introduces the Gateway Pacific Series, a subscription series of Chinese-language contemporary drama, which will be launched in August 2014 with the pilot project: the Gateway to the Pacific Festival;

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beginning in the 2016-2017 Season, the Gateway to the Pacific Festival will become the Gateway Pacific Series, a four-show subscription series of Cantonese and Mandarin language productions;

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Phase 2 will introduce the Gateway Junior Series, a professional theatre series specifically tailored to young audiences which will give the children of Richmond something invaluable: a life-long love of the performing arts;

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Phase 3 introduces the Gateway Greenhouse Series, a subscription series that will foster creativity, encourage risk-taking, push the boundaries of theatrical form and content, and nourish the next generation of theatre artists and spectators; and

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the final phase will introduce the Gateway Pass which entitles a pass holder unlimited access to any play in any of the subscription series for a flat monthly fee.

A copy of “Gateway 2028 An artistic vision for the Gateway Theatre” was distributed to Committee (copy on file, City Clerk’s Office).

Committee expressed thanks and congratulations to staff and Board members on the artistic vision for the Gateway Theatre.  Discussion ensued regarding the diversity, innovation, and youth components of Gateway 2028. In reply to queries regarding the Greenhouse Series, the Gateway Pass, the capacity of the Gateway Theatre, and the Junior Series ties to the Gateway Academy for the Performing Arts, the following additional information was provided:

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the Greenhouse Series encourages new theatre makers to apply their trade in innovated ways (i.e. blurring the lines between theatre and dance or theatre and music, and the use of multi-media);

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the Gateway Pass is an exciting model removing the transactional nature of theatre going in order to encourage risk-taking, to go outside of your comfort zone and watch something you might not have gone to otherwise;

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in terms of capacity, a Facility Task Force, including Board and community members, City staff, Gateway staff, and industry professionals, has been commissioned to review the future needs on the basis of the programming;

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youth programming will be phased in through the Signature Series of performances leading to the schedule 2018 launch of the Junior Series; and

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the Junior Series will be closely aligned with the Gateway Academy for the Performing Arts incorporating holiday productions, academy productions, and purchased shows from companies across Canada providing opportunities for youth performers from both the academy and the community at large.

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

It was moved and seconded

(1)

That the presentation titled “Gateway 2028 An artistic vision for the Gateway Theatre” be received for information; and

(2)

That a presentation be made at the next meeting of Council.

CARRIED

COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT

2.

Branscombe House – future uses
(File Ref. No. 11-7000-01) (REDMS No. 3894270)

Jane Fernyhough, Director, Arts, Culture and Heritage Services, was available to answer questions.

Discussion ensued regarding (i) various uses for the upper and lower floors of the Branscombe House, (ii) the former Captain Atkinson property now owned by the City, and (iii) whether staff had considered receiving expressions of interest for proposed uses for the building.

Ms. Fernyhough advised that the exterior and lower floor renovations are nearing completion.  The upper floor work has not been completed and the grounds are currently being designed by the Parks Division.  Staff would welcome the opportunity to receive expressions of interest for the use of the building.

Dave Semple, General Manager, Community Services, advised that further research and evaluation of the former Atkinson property would be required before proceeding with any proposal.

Peter Bradley, 4300 No. 5 Road, expressed interest in presenting a proposal to lease the building from the City in order to provide a tourist rental facility furnished with period antiques.  The house would not be a bed and breakfast but a short-term rental facility for public parties, weddings, or tours.

Following discussion the following motion was introduced:

It was moved and seconded

That staff consider the feasibility of an artist in residence upon completion of the Branscombe House and obtain expressions of interest for other possible uses.

The question on the motion was not called as the Committee requested that the analysis of the artist in residence provide information regarding guidelines, expectations, and intent of the use.  It was suggested that the matter be referred to the Richmond Public Art Advisory Committee for their expertise and input for best practices regarding the artist in residence use.

Ms. Fernyhough advised that the two separate analyses (i) for the expression of interest addressing what the community proposes in terms of uses for the building, and (ii) for the artist in residence use, could be conducted concurrently.

The questions on the motion was then called and it was CARRIED.

It was moved and seconded

That the staff report titled Branscombe House – future uses, dated September 6, 2013, from the Director, Arts, Culture and Heritage Services, be received for information.

CARRIED

3.

City Wide Artefact Collections Policy
(File Ref. No.) (REDMS No. 3870503)

Connie Baxter, Supervisor, Richmond Museum and Heritage Sites, advised that the Artefact Collections Policy is complementary and compatible with the City Archives Policy; however, the functions are different.  There are standard policies and procedures related to processing collections dealing with inventory, clear ownership title, and de-accession.  As in the past, grant funding may be available should additional staff be required.

It was moved and seconded

That the City Wide Artefact Collections Policy (included as Attachment 1 in the staff report dated September 6, 2013, from the Director, Arts, Culture & Heritage Services) be adopted.

CARRIED

4.

Richmond Heritage Update 2012-2013
(File Ref. No.) (REDMS No. 3897356)

Discussion ensued regarding the Richmond Heritage Update 2012-2013 and Committee noted that in order to increase awareness within the community with regard to the heritage activities and achievements of the City, staff bring a presentation forward to a future Council meeting.

It was moved and seconded

That the Richmond Heritage Update 2012-2013 as presented in the staff report from the Director, Arts, Culture and Heritage Services dated September 5, 2013, be received for information.

CARRIED

5.

Cambie Road/Mueller Development Park – Public Consultation
(File Ref. No. 06-2345-20CMUE1) (REDMS No. 3941393 v.6)

Mike Redpath, Senior Manager, Parks, and Clarence Sihoe, Park Planner, gave a brief overview of the proposed park development.  The proposal is for a four acre passive park that is open on all four sides and includes a dog park, playground, plaza, public art element, water feature, and environmental elements.  Polygon has expressed interest, through a licensing agreement, in having a temporary sales centre on the park site.  Approval of the staff report will advance the project to the Public Hearing stage.

Discussion ensued regarding site furnishings (e.g. picnic tables, benches, and barbeque pits) similar to single-family residences being incorporated into the design and development of the park.  Committee inquired whether the concerns raised through the public consultation process, in particular, the need to slow traffic along Brown Road, the need for traffic lights, and the installation of barriers to prevent vehicular traffic entering the park, would be addressed, including the associated costs, prior to construction.

Mr. Redpath advised that Phase 1 construction of the park development which includes land form, trails, a portion of the plaza, playground, fixtures, perimeter walkway, lighting, and trees, will be borne by the developer.  The balance of the park development will be phased in under the City wide park program over the next two years.  Hard surface seating is proposed for the plaza area.  The developer will be responsible for the perimeter lighting and the land form berms which will serve as buffers.

It was moved and seconded

That the design concept for Cambie Road/Mueller Development Park, as described in Attachment 1 of the staff report, dated September 5, 2013, from the Senior Manager, Parks, be approved.

CARRIED

6.

City of Richmond 2022 Parks and Open Space Strategy
(File Ref. No. 06-2345-03) (REDMS No. 3897705 v.3)

With the aid of a PowerPoint presentation (copy on file, City Clerk’s Office), Mr. Redpath and Jamie Esko, Park Planner, presented the ten-year strategy for Parks and Open Space which provides the framework for measuring future needs and how well the City is meeting the changing trends and demographics of the community.

Discussion followed with regard to the changing demographics and the need to maintain a balance between traditional sports field/parks and the passive park development attuned to trails for walking, running, and cycling.  Committee inquired whether (i) further acquisitions would be required particularly along the watercourse, (ii) staff has held discussion with Port Metro Vancouver for park land, and (iii) staff has provided the strategy to the Richmond School Board.

Mr. Redpath advised that the changing demographics and densification are the driving the trend to more passive development.  The proposed strategy will be instrumental in maintaining a balance in park development.  The City has been acquiring land for the past 20 years as opportunities presented themselves to continue the linkage within the trail system.  Currently there are gaps in the trail system along the north end of River Road near the Hamilton community area and north of Shell Road.

Mr. Redpath confirmed that staff had discussions with Port Metro Vancouver concerning lands for the trail system.  Staff has engaged with the Richmond School Board with respect to future park development and the need for a school site in the City Centre area.

Ms. Esko advised that national trends and community survey results are reflected in the priority given to walking, running, and cycling trails.  Staff is constantly consulting with the community through various means (e.g. Richmond Community Services Advisory Committee, surveys, and direct feedback) to address the changing demographics and aging population.  School park sites are identified as neighbourhood parks in the strategy.

Dave Semple, General Manager, Community Services, advised the relationship with the Richmond School Board in terms of land acquisition has never been stronger leaving a legacy of joint school/park sites.

Further discussion ensued about innovated funding, including small community contributions, for neighbourhood improvements which may foster a greater sense of ownership of the park facility within the community.  An area of weakness in the strategy was in relation to the Blue Network for development of a trail on the water for boating, kayaking, and rafting.  Committee expressed appreciation for the strategy and were delighted that community satisfaction was high regarding the park and trail system within Richmond.

Heather Hicks, 23171 Westminster Highway, expressed concerns with the proposed rezoning of lands within the Hamilton Area Plan for a future park and the impact to residents obtaining mortgages and household improvement loans.  Pedestrian safety issues were raised with the gap in the trail system along portions of River Road.

Mr. Redpath advised that the design of the proposed park for the Hamilton area is underway.  Staff would permit similar residential reconstruction within the existing zone prior to the acquisition of the park and would provide letters of security for the financial institutions in such situations. Ms. Hicks was advised to speak with staff concerning the financial matter.

Jim Wright, 8300 Osgoode Drive, was in support of the proposed Parks and Open Space Strategy and reiterated his comments as outlined in his written submission dated September 24, 2013 (attached to and forming part of these minutes as Schedule 1).

It was moved and seconded

(1)

That the 2022 Parks and Open Space Strategy as outlined in the staff report titled City of Richmond 2022 Parks and Open Space Strategy dated June 28, 2013 from the Senior Manager, Parks be endorsed as the guide for the delivery of Parks Services; and

(2)

That the 2002 Parks and Open Space Strategy be forwarded to the Richmond School Board for their information.

CARRIED

Councillor Linda McPhail left the meeting at 5:30 p.m. and did not return.

6A.

west dike berm removal

(File Ref. No.) (REDMS No.)

The Chair raised a concern for the sea berm along the west dike with regard to the removal of the log berm at Boundary Bay by Port Metro Vancouver, with the permission of the Department of Fisheries & Oceans, in order to create a fish habitat.  The area between the Dike and the sea berm is upper marsh which is a habitat for ducks, heron, hawks, plover, coyotes and wolves.  The Chair submitted the following documentation to Committee: (i) correspondence received from Port Metro Vancouver dated August 29, 2013, and (ii) e-mail to and from Robin Silvester, President and Chief Executive Officer, Port Metro Vancouver, dated September 2, 2013 and September 5, 2013 (attached to and forming part of these minutes as Schedule 2).

In reply to a query regarding the work on the sea berm near Quilchena Golf Course, Kevin Connery, Park Planner, advised that the work is a joint effort between the City, Ducks Unlimited, and the Department of Fisheries & Oceans.  The equipment has been relocating, not removing, the logs in the marsh area in an effort to restore the salt water marsh that has been suffocated by the logs to allow carbon to be contributed to the system.  There will be monitoring and assessment of the area in order to determine how well the habitat colonizes.

At the conclusion of the discussion the following referral motion was introduced:

It was moved and seconded

That the matter be referred to staff for a report on any work being completed or proposed along the sea berm of the West Dike.

CARRIED

7.

MANAGER’S REPORT

(i)

Community Services Department Updates

Ms. Fernyhough reported that the Salmon Row production was successful with over 2100 attendees.  The Grand Prix Art event was held this past weekend in Steveston with 85 artists participating along Britannia Heritage Shipyard and Gary Point Park.  The “I Love Culture” event will be taking place this upcoming weekend.  The artist in resident program, with Richmond artist and author Nancy Lee, begins Friday night with two months of programming in collaboration between the Seniors Society and the Richmond Library and Arts Centre.  Minor Chapel Opera starts on Wednesday, October 2, 2013 with Giuseppe Verdi’s opera La Traviata.

Ted DeCrom, Manager, Parks Operations, provided an update on the trees being removed from the Kiwanis site along Minoru Boulevard and Minoru Park.  The removal of ten trees in Minoru Park, to accommodate an underground hydro line, is scheduled for September 30, 2013.  In order to facilitate a turning lane on Minoru Boulevard, two cherries trees are scheduled to be removed along Minoru Boulevard at a later date.  Signage will be erected on Wednesday, September 25, 2013.

Mr. Redpath provided an update on the upgraded batting cage at the Blundell School Park site.  The new batting cage will be longer and the height will be consistent with the height of the existing back stop.  The cage will be screened by an existing row of trees and community garden plots.  Electrical installation and improvements to the existing drainage and pathways will be completed with the upgrade.  Staff was advised to notify the neighbouring strata corporation regarding the construction work.

In reply to a query regarding the proposed paving material for the trail south of Moncton Street, Mr. Redpath reported that the trail is currently constructed using granular material.  Staff partnered with the City Information Technology Division to widen the trail and to install conduit for a high-speed fibre optic cable.  Staff has been experimenting with material and will advise Committee prior to any material being laid. Mr. Redpath noted that the associated crosswalk connections are being amended, the signal activators have been ordered, and signage, bus stop connections, massive tree planting, and wild flower seeding are underway.

Mr. Semple advised that a cement and limestone material may be used which would provide the smoothest and hardest surface for the trail. 

Mr. Redpath gave an update on the playground improvements that were tendered earlier in the year.  The school improvements were completed first in order to be ready for the fall.  The Oval West Waterfront Park will be completed in two weeks.  The Richmond Street Park playground is scheduled to be completed later in the calendar year.  The Terra Nova playground equipment has been ordered and design development continues with a May 2014 completion date.

Vern Jacques, Senior Manager, Recreation Services, introduced Sheila Porlier, Manager, Administration to Committee.  Mr. Semple advised Committee that Mr. Jacques is retiring and that this would be his last meeting before Committee.  Committee extended best wishes to Mr. Jacques.

Staff were requested to ensure that information and contacts related to corporate social responsibility be placed on the website.

ADJOURNMENT

It was moved and seconded

That the meeting adjourn (5:52 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, September 24, 2013.

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Councillor Harold Steves
Chair

Heather Howey
Committee Clerk