Penticton beginning review of park uses

Over the eight months, the City of Penticton is going to be developing a plan for the Robinson Property, also known as the Seniors’ Drop-in Centre.

Len Robson, manager of public works, said a plan for the property was one of the recommendations from the recently completed Parks and Recreation master plan, and the pressures on the six-acres made it a priority to get started, even before the parks and recreation committee is reinstated.

“This parks property is in the midst of change,” said Robson. “The Seniors’ Drop-in Centre lease expires in 2019; the horseshoe club membership is declining and half of their pitches have been returned to the city for maintenance and care. The pickle ball club would like to raise funds for four more court expansions in that area; a land swap between the school district and the City of Penticton needs to be finalized in that area; bocce players would like to add a picnic shelter to the area they use.”

Related: Pickleball already outgrowing existing courts

The area is so popular, Robson went on, that there are parking issues at times, with people parking on a vacant area next to South Main Street, which has also been eyed for parks-related projects, like a proposed community garden.

The six-acre lot was purchased by the Robinsons in 1932, then the parkland was granted to the city in 1983 for parkland and the enjoyment of the public. In 1996, the city leased a portion of the property to the Senior’s Drop-in Centre.

Coun. Judy Sentes praised both the multiple uses of the property and the way its use has evolved to meet needs over the years, saying that needed to continue in future planning.

“A few years ago we didn’t know pickle ball and now it is taking everybody by storm,” said Sentes. “I would like to have the opportunity as things change and transition that we can consider that.”

Coun. Andre Martin wanted to know how a new group wanting a piece of the park could get involved.

“My concern is that if we are looking to do something on that property that everyone has the same chance to propose something,” said Martin.

Robson said it is important to understand what the current uses and needs are before adding new items.

“What we plan to do is to integrate them in the public engagement process. That’s where we will have various community groups, including the public, jump in and tell us their ideas as well,” said Robson.

According to the proposed timeline, stakeholder workshops will take place in September and October, with the public engagement session happening in February 2019 and the recommended plan being brought back to council in April 2019.