The Capital Regional District (CRD) is launching an Alternative Approval Process (AAP) in order to update the SEAPARC Recreation Centre and build a brand new Sooke Skate Park.
The AAP will seek elector approval to borrow $3,150,000 in capital funds to complete both projects.
In regards to the Sooke Skate Park, the CRD has determined the current amenity is at its end of life and needs to be replaced, as repairing the existing skate park is not a financially viable option.
Replacing the current Sooke Skate Park has been in the works for a while now with public consultation taking place in 2024.
This led to the completion of a skate park concept design, and the project’s next steps will involve technical design, demolition and construction of a new skate park.
In regards to the SEAPARC Recreation Centre, the CRD has determined that the facility is the District’s second largest emissions emitter.
The CRD says this rec centre accounts for around 16% of all of the region’s greenhouse gas emissions.
In order to meet their climate targets, one of the many projects identified in SEAPARC’s 20-year capital plan to reduce emissions is the heat recovery project the CRD now seeks approval to borrow money for.
The heat recovery project will see several mechanical components replaced with greener technology.
How the AAP works is that residents in the area can fill out elector response forms. Unless 10% of electors in the District of Sooke and Juan de Fuca Electoral Area reject the borrowing of funds, then the projects will proceed.
The CRD says that 10% of electors in these areas equates to 1,826 individuals.
If the borrowing is not approved through the AAP, a referendum will take place before proceeding with these two projects.
The deadline for submitting signed elector response forms for both projects is 4:30 p.m. on May 23rd.
Those who can’t mail the form in, can drop it off at 625 Fisgard Street, Victoria, during regular business hours, or by scanning a legible, signed copy and emailing it to the CRD.
Copies of the elector response form can be found on the CRD’s SEAPARC.
