UPDATE January 17: The City of Ottawa has scheduled another virtual consultation session on the proposal for a new recreation fee structure (others had filled up). It will be held over Zoom on Monday, January 29, 2024 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Register at engage.ottawa.ca/my-rec-pass .
Alayne McGregor
New city recreation fee structure proposed
The City of Ottawa is proposing a new model for recreation fees which could affect local centres.
Under this proposal, the city says, fees will no longer be based on the type of facility and will be the same for class A and B facilities. The Plant Recreation Centre is in Class A; the Jack Purcell Community Centre is in Class B. Class B fees are currently lower than Class A.
The model places activities into three categories. These would apply to drop-in admissions, multi-visit passes, and membership passes. The highest-fee category includes group fitness, aquafitness, and wave swims. Both centres offer activities in all three categories.
The city says the change is not designed to boost revenues. Discounts would still be given to children, youth, seniors, and families. Financial assistance will continue to be available for lower-income individuals and families.
Until January 31, you can fill out a survey giving your reaction to the proposal, or send in comments, at engage.ottawa.ca/my-rec-pass. Need more info? You can also send questions to activeottawaactif@ottawa.ca
Affordable housing ideas wanted
The City of Ottawa is starting a service review to improve services and save money at engage.ottawa.ca/yourideas.
If you think that’s actually possible, you can contribute “innovative ideas” on how Ottawa can become a city with affordable housing that is more liveable for all.
See engage.ottawa.ca/liveableforall
Urbanism Book Club returns Jan. 29
The Ottawa Urbanism Book Club will discuss Streetfight: Handbook for an Urban Revolution by Janette Sadik-Khan on Monday, January 29, from 6:15 to 7:45 p.m. The club will meet in Room 1 at the Sunnyside branch of the Ottawa Public Library (1049 Bank).
In February, former city councillor Mathieu Fleury will moderate the discussion of Paved Paradise by Henry Grabar (and optionally The High Cost of Free Parking by Donald Shoup). The meeting will be held on February 21 at 6:15 p.m. Location TBD.