Public engagement is a critical piece of the Aquatic Strategy. During the most recent round of public consultation in September:
- Over 300 residents attended four neighbourhood open houses.
- There were 263 responses to the neighbourhood specific surveys (available online and at the open houses).
- There were over 500 responses to the general community-wide survey.
- Over 200 residents responded to a survey for outdoor spray parks/spray decks.
The detailed (verbatim) comments from these surveys & open houses, as well as survey results will be available at www.strathcona.ca/aquaticengagement at the end of October.
Although the surveys have closed, we still welcome feedback!
Here’s how:
- The blog remains open for ongoing comments about both indoor swimming pools and outdoor spray park/deck options.
- Residents can call Recreation, Parks and Culture at 780-410-8524 or email recreation@strathcona.ca to submit feedback or ask questions.
- [Planned for 2012 pending approval] Recruiting of residents/related public committees to assist specialists in detailed designs for both indoor and outdoor aquatic options.
On October 18, 2011, Council met for a workshop about the Aquatic Strategy. This was an opportunity for Councillors to hear a compilation of resident feedback (from the open houses, surveys and online forums), as well as review the options that were presented at the open house, and provide their feedback. No decisions were made at this time.
At this point, Strathcona County staff are continuing to do follow-up work on a number of points brought up by residents. Staff will also use Council’s feedback to continue to refine the draft Aquatic Strategy recommendations.
The draft Aquatic Strategy will be presented to Council in early 2012. This will include recommendations for both indoor pool and outdoor spray park/decks locations. At this time, Council will begin the decision-making process, which includes approval for funding, then location of indoor and outdoor aquatic options.
