2025 Budget - Recreation and Park Services

Recreation and Park Services Division in Peterborough is at the heart of the city's commitment to providing vibrant recreational opportunities for its residents. With a comprehensive array of facilities and outdoor spaces under its purview, the division plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for community members of all ages, with each aspect of the division's operations geared towards fostering active living, community engagement, and inclusive participation.

Highlights

At the core of the Recreation and Park Services Division's mandate is the operation of numerous complex and non-complex facilities. Among these venues are the Healthy Planet Arena, Kinsmen Civic Centre, Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre, and the Peterborough Memorial Centre. In 2025 the division's portfolio expands with the addition of the new Miskin Law Community Centre, providing increased access to recreational activities in the city. Complementing these larger facilities are smaller-scale operations such as the Peterborough Marina and the Quaker Foods City Square, each contributing uniquely to the recreational landscape.

In addition to its indoor facilities, the Recreation and Park Services Division oversees a vast network of outdoor spaces that showcase the natural beauty of Peterborough. With over 110 seasonal parks, wading pools, splash pads, and marina, these outdoor spaces provide access for residents and visitors alike. Notable among these outdoor destinations are Beavermead Beach and Rogers Cove.

The division's commitment to promoting active living extends beyond facility management to encompass a diverse array of recreational programs and services. Annually, over 1,800 recreational programs cater to the interests and needs of over 10,000 participants, spanning all age groups and interests. Furthermore, the division boasts partnerships with more than 120 sport and community user groups, facilitating collaboration and community-building through shared recreational experiences.

As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance services and respond to evolving community needs, the Recreation and Park Services Division has embarked on several new initiatives in 2025. Central to these efforts is the integration of Park Services into the division, a move aimed at streamlining responses to user groups, park users, and permitting activities. The inauguration of the Miskin Law Community Centre marks a significant milestone, offering year-round ice plant operation and multi-functional spaces to accommodate diverse recreational pursuits.

Ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of its operations, the division's budget allocations reflect a strategic approach to resource management. Increased funding for activities related to Canada Day celebrations underscores the city's commitment to fostering community cohesion and civic pride. Moreover, adjustments to wages for non-union part-time staff demonstrate a proactive stance in compliance with provincial minimum wage regulations, ensuring fair compensation for essential front-line workers.

The Recreation and Park Services Division, in collaboration with Arts and Culture and Strategic Communication Divisions will be developing the overall approach the city will be taking in relation to Tourism Services. The focus in 2025 will be on developing strong partnerships with local organizations and tourism entities and enhancing existing community events through support and promotion.

Interactive Budget

Explore the City's budget using the interactive OpenBook feature, including expenses by department and division as well as a breakdown of what a typical residential property taxpayer pays per $100,000 of assessment.

• Expenses page - Recreation and Parks Services in OpenBook

The full budget information is available in the Draft 2025 Budget book.