Pretty straight forward Park Board meeting, Chair’s report showing all the photo ops from the Winter Games.
Firefighters were there and presented a huge cheque ( 3′x 4′ worth over $180 k) which represents the money raised from the Bright Lights Train in Stanley Park that goes to the Burnt Unit Fund.
A report on Fraserview Park upgrade concept plan. A few question from the Commissioners on the consultation process. Concept plan had good support in the community. Passed unanimously.
Plans to upgrade the Seawall around English Bay to take advantage of Federal infrastructure money.
Motion from Commissioner Woodcock directing staff to seek options to find funding to upgrade the heating system of the Bloedel conservatory. One of the issues with the Bloedel is the heating cost, if this could be reduced it would be more affordable to the organization that takes on the facility. The was some hand wringing and grandstanding about what “signals” the approval of the motion would send to other levels of government and the public, but the motion passes unanimously.
Another motion from Commissioner Barnes about establishing another committee to advise the Board on marketing and promotion. More meeting, more talk, more attempts to try increase revenue as 40% Park Board budget revenue is from concessions and parking. Any new increased revenue could be use to off set increases to fees.
Last up was an In-Camera meeting and I got the boot from the meeting. The City Manager was not there, so I think anyone was going to be hired.
Brent Granby is a community activist, family man and all-around decent human being. Currently president of the West End Residents Association, he lives with his wife and two daughters in Vancouver's West End. He enjoys cycling, cooking, fine wines and fine literature.
