HomeMy WebLinkAboutApril 22, 2025 - Special CouncilSpecial Council Meeting Agenda
April 22, 2025 Electronic Meeting - 11:00 am Chair: Mayor Ashe
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Page 1.Call to Order/Roll Call
2.Disclosure of Interest
3.Delegations
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4.Matters for Consideration
4.1 Chief Administrative Officer, Report CAO 05-25 1 Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Project Update, Financial Analysis & Recommended Next Steps
Recommendation:
1.That Report CAO 05-25 regarding the Seaton Recreation Complex &Library Project be received;
2.That Council pause the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Project as it relates to the approval and further development of anyproposed design;
Special Council Meeting Agenda
April 22, 2025 Electronic Meeting - 11:00 am Chair: Mayor Ashe
For information related to accessibility requirements please contact: Council & Committee Coordinator
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3.That Council receive the findings of the public engagement processfor the design of the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library forinformation;
4.That staff provide a project update to Council, including theconsolidated base program schematic design concept, updatedfinancial information and project recommendations, in Q4, 2025instead of the previously scheduled date of June 2025, per
Recommendation 4 of Report OPS 12-24 (Resolution #523/24); and,
5.That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized totake the actions necessary to implement the recommendations in thisreport.
5.Confirmatory By-law
6.Adjournment
Report to Council
Report Number: CAO 05-25
Date: April 22, 2025
From: Marisa Carpino
Chief Administrative Officer
Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project
Project Update, Financial Analysis & Recommended Next Steps
File: A-1440
Recommendation:
1.That Report CAO 05-25 regarding the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project be
received;
2.That Council pause the Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project as it relates to the
approval and further development of any proposed design;
3.That Council receive the findings of the public engagement process for the design of the
Seaton Recreation Complex & Library for information;
4.That staff provide a project update to Council, including the consolidated base program
schematic design concept, updated financial information and project recommendations,
in Q4, 2025 instead of the previously scheduled date of June 2025, per Recommendation
4 of Report OPS 12-24 (Resolution #523/24); and,
5.That the appropriate officials of the City of Pickering be authorized to take the actions
necessary to implement the recommendations in this report.
Executive Summary: The purpose of this report is to provide a project update on the
proposed Seaton Recreation Complex & Library (SRCL) which summarizes the public
engagement process for its design and the feedback received (Attachment 1) and to seek
Council endorsement for deferring further development of the project until more clarity is
obtained regarding the potential broader economic impacts of tariffs that may be implemented
between Canada and the United States of America.
A pause of the SRCL project is a prudent financial decision, considering the volatile and
unpredictable economic climate, and is strongly supported by the City’s Treasurer. It
enables the City to manage the economic uncertainty, mitigate risks, control costs, and
potentially secure financial support from higher levels of government for SRCL. Canada is
currently in an economic trade war that creates a possible slower or negative growth scenario
and this can create inflationary cost pressures. Unfortunately, these two factors can create a
recession.
The budget for the SRCL project is estimated to be approximately $241.4 million. This dollar
amount represents a major expenditure for the City and perhaps the largest expenditure for a
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CAO 05-25 April 22, 2025
Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Page 2
single capital project in the City’s history. This large dollar amount represents a significant
financial risk to the City and therefore, the City has to be cautious and prudent in this
uncertain economic environment when considering making an investment of this significant
scale.
As authorized by Council, design of the SRCL project began in July 2024 (Resolution
#523/24), with public engagement taking place from October 1, 2024 to November 7, 2024. A
detailed description of the public engagement process and summary of its findings are
included within this report. Three options were presented for review, with the stated intention
that feedback would be collected and consolidated into a single new hybrid schematic design
concept for Council’s review and approval. The intent is to bring together all of the best ideas
generated through the engagement, while also addressing the theme of comments, concerns
and general requests. As a significant new recreation and library facility and community park
that will serve all Pickering residents, the SRCL must consider the needs of the entire
community.
Considering staff’s recommendation that the SRCL project be paused, presentation of the
resulting consolidated base program schematic design option will be recommended for
Council’s approval at a later date. Options for increases and/or reductions to the design, based
on public engagement, will also be provided at that time, along with corresponding cost
impacts.
Relationship to the Pickering Strategic Plan: The recommendations in this report respond
to the Pickering Strategic Priorities to Champion Economic Leadership & Innovation; Advocate
for an Inclusive, Welcoming, Safe & Healthy Community; Advance Innovation & Responsible
Planning to Support a Connected, Well-Serviced Community; Lead & Advocate for
Environmental Stewardship, Innovation & Resiliency; Strengthen Existing & Build New
Partnerships; and, Foster an Engaged & Informed Community.
Financial Implications: The financial information, as reflected in Table One below,
represents the best available information regarding the project cost and does not include any
additional costs associated with the possible implementation of reciprocal tariffs by the
Canadian Government. Table One project costs are in 2025 dollars.
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Table One – Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Estimated Costs (April 2025)
Development
Charge Funding
City Cost
Library $19,536,178
Library Collection 4,017,000
Library Site Development 2,616,902
Library FF&E 2,650,000 $28,820,080 $27,346,977 $1,473,103
Rink/Arena $60,968,153
Rink/Arena FF&E 1,248,300
Site Development 6,280,985 68,497,438 68,497,438
Other Rec. Areas $129,589,916
Other Rec. Areas FF&E 2,401,700
Site Development 12,087,695 144,079,311 139,795,246 4,284,065
Total Cost: $241,396,829 $167,142,223 $74,254,606
Overall Funding: 69.24% 30.76%
As the above table indicates, the expenditure ceiling for the SRCL project from a City
perspective is $241.4 million with Development Charge (DC) dollars providing 69.24 percent of
the total funding. This DC information is based on the draft DC & Community Benefit Charge
Study to be considered and approved by Council in early July 2025 or sooner.
Report CS 30-24 (Resolution #578/24) authorized the City to make a capital funding grant
application to the Green and Inclusive Community Building (GICB) Program: New Build Project
for the SRCL. The GICB funds up to 50 percent of eligible costs for new build projects that
exceed $10 million in total eligible expenses. The City submitted an application in October
2024 requesting $25 million toward this project. When a project has a DC funding component,
the grant amount is first applied to the project’s gross cost and you then apply the residual
balance to the DC funding share. Therefore, assuming that the City received the grant, from a
high level analysis perspective, the City would save $7.735 million in City share costs. The City
has received no formal response to this grant application, to date. It is staff’s intent to continue
to apply for all grant opportunities including smaller grants, where there may be an opportunity
to help fund energy efficient equipment and/or accessibility capital investments related to the
project.
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Table Two – SRCL Funding Strategy
Annual Debt
Payments
DC Debt $167,142,223 $12,484,430
Taxpayer Debt (rink/arena) 68,497,438 5,177,572
Seaton FIA RF 5,757,168 0
Total: $241,396,829 $17,662,002
Debt Funding as a Percentage of
Total Funding:
97.62%
The Seaton FIA RF refers to the Seaton Financial Impact Agreement Reserve Fund. The City
charges a fee for every unit (similar to a DC fee) built in Seaton and these dollars are collected
to be used to fund Seaton related infrastructure investments. The debt payments are based on
a 20-year amortization with a 4.20 percent interest rate. As shown in Table One, the entire cost
of two NHL sized ice pads are 100 percent taxpayer funded since the construction of the arena
is not considered a growth project as it is assumed to replace the Don Beer Arena.
SRCL Estimated Operating Costs & Residential Property Tax Impacts (City Share)
Table Three provides a high level estimate of the financial impact on the tax levy (in 2025
dollars) as it relates to the operating costs of SRCL. The draft financial strategy where possible
is to “smooth” or flat line the property tax increase over the four year period.
Table Three
SRCL 2027 to 2030 Projected Annual Levy Increases
(2025 Dollars)
2027 2028 2029 2030 Total
Seaton Arena Debt. Pmts. (taxpayer funded)
(Note 1)
1.30% 1.30% 1.30% 1.30% 5.20%
SRCL Net Operating Costs
(Note 2)
1.39% 1.39% 1.39% 1.39% 5.56%
The SRCL Estimated Naming Rights
Revenue (Note 3)
-0.22%-0.22%
Closing of Don Beer Arena Net Operating
Costs Savings
-0.60%-0.60%
Total SRCL Annual Levy Increase 2.69% 2.69% 2.47% 2.09% 9.94%
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Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Page 5
Note 1: Annual SRCL Payments are estimated to be $5,177,000.
Note 2: The SRCL Net operating costs includes Community Services ($3.08 million) and
Library ($2.47 million.) These costs are Net of all revenues.
Note 3: Preliminary estimate.
The above financial levy impacts are in addition to the preliminary estimate of a City’s base
budget levy increase of 3.5 percent plus an additional 1.0 percent for asset management. The
above model assumes that the City will close Don Beer Arena in 2030, resulting in annual
savings of $593,650 in operating costs and $19,451,248 in capital cost avoidance. The above
financial analysis also excludes the opportunity of selling the Don Beer Arena and applying
those dollars to fund new capital projects and reducing future debt financing needs. The
financial impact of SRCL operating costs, as it relates to the property tax levy, is presented
below. As a reminder, Pickering share of property taxes represents approximately 31.0 percent
of the total residential property tax bill.
Table Four
Estimated Residential Property Tax Impacts Related to SRCL Operating & Capital
Semi-Detached
Average
Assessment
$421,000
Condominium
Average
Assessment
$306,000
Single Family
Home Average
Assessment
$586,000
2025 Residential Property Taxes
(City share only)
$1,643 $1,195 $2,288
Property Tax Increase to Fund
SRCL (Capital & Operating)
$163.31 $118.74 $227.43
The property tax increase is being partially driven by the debt charges associated with the two
ice pads at SRCL.
The above analysis excludes the economic benefits of the SRCL project due to the fact that it
is difficult to quantify at this current time. The SRCL facility will be able to attract visitors from
neighbouring areas, thereby, boosting local businesses and increasing economic activity for
Pickering. In addition, this new showcase facility will enhance the attractiveness of the area,
potentially increasing property values and encouraging new developments.
SRCL & Debt Analysis
What is the Annual Payment Limit or ARL?
The Municipal Act through Regulation 403/02 permits a maximum of 25 percent of net
operating revenues to be used to fund principal and interest charges for debt. For Pickering,
the net operating revenues consists of the following major items:
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Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Page 6
• Property tax revenue
• User fees and charges
• Fines, penalties and interest on taxes
• License fees, permit fees and rent
• Gaming and casino revenues
Every year, as the budget levy increases, the City’s annual repayment limit increases, and in-
turn results in a higher ARL. Over the last seven years, the City has maintained a steady
course as it relates to debt use and has maintained its debt level below 5 percent of the
maximum allowed of 25 percent. The financial strategy of being prudent and cautious has
served the City well as it relates to its management of debt.
Financial Impact of SRCL on the City’s Long Term Financial Plan
The chart below is based on the financial information from the City’s draft DC Study and the
capital forecast that was developed as part of the 2025 Budget exercise.
Chart One: ARL Preliminary Projection (2025 to 2034)
0.00%
5.00%
10.00%
15.00%
20.00%
25.00%
30.00%
35.00%
2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034
ARL Council uideline ARL Province Draft Capital Forecast & Draft DC Study
The above graph assumes that the following capital projects are being debt financed in 2026:
Animal Shelter, Fire Station #5 and the Pickering Heritage & Community Centre (PHCC). The
steep increase from 2026-2028 reflects the SRCL project. The SRCL project is consuming a
large amount of the City’s debt capacity.
In Chart One, the slope of the line can change depending upon the following factors:
assessment growth, interest rates and actual construction costs. Higher assessment growth
translates into higher revenues that will lower the ARL percentage. As Chart One above
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Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Page 7
indicates, the City is projected to exceed the Provincial ARL limit at around 2032. As shown
above, the capital forecast (2029 - 2034) is not financially sustainable. The purpose of
presenting this financial forecast is to communicate that there are both short and medium term
concerns and that the City’s capital plan has to be reviewed and revised. Usually this means
that capital projects (2027 - 2034) will have to be either deferred, revised and/or reduced in
size to provide debt pressure relief.
For the next term of Council, the City will find itself in a “challenging financial position” from
2027 up to and including 2030 due to the consumption of debt capacity by SRCL. It is staff’s
understanding that, during the next term of council, Pickering would probably have one of the
highest debt($) per capita ratios among all the municipalities in Ontario.
The 17.5 Percent Versus 15.0 Percent ARL Guideline
The 17.5 percent ARL guideline was developed several years ago to strike a balance between
previously forecasted large debt financed capital projects and to manage the City’s debt
capacity. However, recent economic events and the corresponding uncertainty has provided
an opportunity to either re-visit or reconsider the ARL at this level.
A lower ARL provides the City with greater financial flexibility. By keeping the repayment limit
at 15 percent, the City ensures that it has more room to maneuver in case of unexpected
expenses or unanticipated uncontrollable negative economic events. This is crucial for
maintaining a healthy financial position and being able to respond to unforeseen
circumstances.
A 15 percent ARL helps in managing the City's debt more effectively. It reduces the risk of
over-leveraging and ensures that the City does not take on more debt than it can comfortably
repay. This conservative approach to debt management can prevent financial strain and
reduce pressure on future levy increases.
Given the current economic climate and potential risks, such as reciprocal tariffs and possible
recessions, a lower ARL is prudent. It minimizes the financial impact of these risks and
ensures that the City can maintain its financial commitments without overburdening its budget.
Lowering the ARL guideline to 15 percent helps mitigate financial risks associated with high
debt levels. It ensures that the City remains within a safe threshold, reducing the likelihood of
financial distress and maintaining fiscal health. In addition, by adopting a lower ARL, the City
can save on interest costs associated with higher debt levels. This can result in significant
savings over time, freeing up resources for other important initiatives. A conservative approach
to debt management can enhance community trust and confidence in the City's financial
stewardship. It demonstrates a commitment to responsible fiscal management and long-term
sustainability.
Overall, setting a 15 percent ARL is a strategic decision that balances financial prudence, risk
management, and long-term planning. It ensures that Pickering can maintain its financial
health while being prepared for future challenges and opportunities.
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Chart Two: Estimated Debt Payments & Financial Obligations (2025 to 2034)
As Chart Two above indicates, the City’s estimated annual debt charges are projected to
increase significantly from 2025 to 2034. The chart above includes taxpayer and DC debt. The
preliminary estimated debt charges for 2026 is $8.139 million. The projected debt charges for
2026 includes the Animal Shelter, PHCC and the replacement of Fire Hall #5. All of these are
critical projects that benefit the Pickering community. The projected 2030 debt charge is
estimated to be $34.685 million which represents an increase of 426 percent over the 2026
estimated debt charges. A significant percentage of the increase is attributable to SRCL.
Pickering is the guarantor of DC debt payments. If DC fees collected are insufficient, the City
must cover the shortfall. If there was a development slow down due to uncontrollable events
such as higher interest rates or a recession, that in-turn would probably cause a shortfall in DC
fees collected (the 2008 recession lasted approximately 30 months). The City would try to fund
this shortfall from existing reserves or reserve funds with the Casino Reserve being the first
source of funding to be considered (with the City being near its debt capacity limit, the City
may find it difficult to borrow on a short term basis to fund any large DC fee shortfall).
Discussion: The purpose of this report is to seek Council endorsement for deferring further
design development of the SRCL project until more clarity is obtained regarding the potential
broader economic impacts of tariffs that may be implemented between Canada and the United
States of America, as well as to summarize the public engagement process on its design and
the feedback received (see Attachment 1).
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1.Explanation of Key Recommendations
Pausing the design process results in a spending freeze until Fall 2025 when the
economic picture is clearer and a decision can be made regarding the project
(Recommendation Two). The pause strategy rationale and the supporting arguments
are presented below:
a)The ongoing tariff war between Canada and the United States may have significant
economic repercussions. The current and possible future tariffs imposed by both countries
can lead to increased costs for construction materials, particularly steel, HVAC and
aluminum, which are essential for large-scale projects like the SRCL. This could result in
higher project costs and putting additional strain on the project’s budget and more
importantly the City’s financial health.
b)A short-term pause of the SRCL project can help mitigate risks associated with the
unknown potential impacts of tariffs and other economic disruptors. This pause can be an
opportunity to gain greater clarity and predictability, reducing related risks to the City in
such a major capital investment.
c)The pause allows the City to reassess the project design and construction plans in light of
the economic environment. It provides an opportunity to explore cost-saving measures,
and potential adjustments to the project scope to ensure it aligns with the City's financial
capacity and strategic goals.
To be clear, staff will proceed with limited expenditures related to time-sensitive site
preparations, including geotechnical and hydrological studies, to ensure that the SRCL site is
transferred to the City in a suitable condition for construction without requiring extensive and
expensive re-work.
2.Impacts of Pausing the Project
Pausing the design process will delay the project schedule which has the potential to
impact the City in the following ways:
a)The SRCL project is currently at the end of the schematic design phase, with roughly
$650,000.00 spent to date. Should the project receive approval to proceed in Fall 2025,
assuming no substantial changes to the building program, it could take approximately 18-
24 months to complete design development and the production of contract documents, and
initiate the site plan approval and building permit processes, and be ready to tender for
construction. Pausing the project, at this time, will likely push the tender approval stage into
2027.
b)The Chestnut Hill Developments Recreation Complex (CHDRC) pool is nearing end of life,
requiring a full replacement of the tanks, mechanical systems, and supporting amenities.
The CHDRC provides a significant amount of aquatics programming to residents. The
SRCL will provide much needed recreation amenities to the community including an eight
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Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Page 10
lane lap pool and a separate leisure pool. The intention was for the SRCL aquatics centre
to provide a community facility to accommodate current use and reduce a disruption of
service while the CHDRC pool facility repairs take place. The Dunbarton Pool is operating
at capacity and cannot accommodate the displaced users from the CHRDC pool.
Therefore, pausing the SRCL project could result in a complete disruption of service and
aquatic programs at the CHDRC pool for up to 12 months for Pickering residents (with
no/limited opportunity to relocate them).
c)The senior levels of government are currently planning and discussing various measures to
mitigate the impact of tariffs on Canadian businesses and workers, including providing
grant programs to support municipal capital infrastructure projects that stimulate the
economy. By pausing the project, the SRCL project will no longer be considered shovel
ready, without a timely completion date, negatively impacting the City’s ability to leverage
possible financial government relief and grant programs.
d)Don Beer Arena has deferred maintenance of $19,451,248 in capital costs. The arena is at
the point in its lifecycle where it either needs to be decommissioned or revitalized. The
SRCL project provides an opportunity to replace Don Beer Arena with two new ice pads. If
the project is paused, several of the deferred maintenance repairs will need to be
completed at Don Beer Arena;
e)With escalation inflation and the cost of construction on the rise, pausing the project will
result in higher construction costs in future years.
3.SRCL Project Progress Update
Report CS 15-24 (Resolution # 514/24) approved the Recreation & Parks Ten Year Plan that
confirmed the need for a second recreation complex in Pickering. The Seaton Recreation
Complex & Library will be the first complex built since the Chestnut Hill Developments
Recreation Complex opened in 1983. The co-location of multi-purpose spaces with other
recreation, library and parks amenities is a common approach that facilitates a broad range of
localized activities, cross-programming opportunities, and economies of scale. The following
are core amenities for this facility based on the inventory of existing recreation assets and
community demand:
•an indoor aquatics centre, including a 25-metre lane rectangular pool with 6 to 8 lanes
plus a separate leisure / therapeutic pool
•a triple gymnasium that is designed to an appropriate specification including adequate
playout dimensions, ceiling heights, flooring, and support amenities
•a fitness centre including a training club with weight-training space and group fitness
studios
•multi-purpose rooms for meetings, programs, and gatherings that enable a flexible
range of community uses
•an arena with two NHL-size ice pads
•an indoor walking track
•outdoor spaces including a destination playground, skate park and more
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•a library with space needs that meet the requirements of the 2023 Pickering Public
Library Facilities Plan
•general spaces for casual activity, change rooms, washrooms, storage, office space,
etc.
Per Recommendation three of Report CS 15-24 (Resolution #514/24), the City should begin
planning to replace Don Beer Arena with two new ice pads within the Seaton community no
later than 2029.
Per Recommendation 4 of Report OPS 12-24 (Resolution #523/24), milestone financial
updates on the project will be provided every six months. The first milestone update was
submitted as Report CAO 06-24 in December 2024. Should Council pause the SRCL project,
the next project update would be presented as part of the staff report in Q4, 2025, resetting the
six month reporting cycle at that time.
4.Summary of Public Engagement on the design of SRCL
A highly successful public engagement campaign for the SRCL ran for 37 days, concluding on
November 7, 2024. The engagement campaign included the following:
•feedback from residents and other stakeholders on the three schematic design options
was received through a comprehensive five week engagement campaign (October 1 to
November 7, 2024);
•an online and paper survey was promoted city-wide and garnered 1,075 responses;
•3 public Open Houses (held October 3, 9, and 15) engaged approximately 200
participants;
•a display was set up in the lobby of the CHDRC for the duration of the campaign, and
20 community pop-ups were held at various locations throughout the City;
•a student engagement initiative was launched in collaboration with the School Boards in
order to engage youth, with 498 surveys completed by youth, representing 47 percent of
responses;
•stakeholder feedback sessions were held with sporting groups including the Pickering
Swim Club, the Ajax Pickering Minor Hockey Association, the skateboard community,
and Pickering Public Library Board, together representing 1,750 stakeholders. A total of
82 hours were spent engaging with residents through the campaign period.
A.Input on Three Design Concepts:
Three design options were presented for public input. Option #2 received the most votes for
preferred design, garnering 442 votes. Design Option #3 received 381 votes and design
Option #1 received 252 votes. A summary of feedback on design options is included in
Attachment 1.
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Some clear patterns, that spanned all design options, emerged from resident’s written
feedback and this input will advance the final consolidated schematic design, to be presented
at a later date. The summary below is based on 1,209 written responses to ‘what would you
change and/or keep in this design option and why’.
• Residents want parking to be safe, accessible and plentiful. Drop-off locations close to
the building, and parking spaces close to outdoor courts and amenities were mentioned
frequently. Parking spaces on both sides of the building was mentioned favourably.
• Pathways and walking trails around the building were mentioned often in long answer
feedback. Many respondents indicated that they plan to use the walking pathways for
recreational use, including jogging, and liked the connectivity around the building.
• Residents had various comments about the placement of amenities on the site. The
placement of pickleball away from homes from other amenities was recommended by
several respondents. Several respondents suggested that children’s outdoor amenities
be grouped together, and place the playground further away from the parking lot.
B. Desired Amenities and Features:
Residents were asked to rank which amenities they and/or their family plan to use. Feedback
from 1,075 respondents ranked the amenities in the following priority sequence:
1. Swimming Pool
2. Library
3. Fitness Centre
4. Exterior Walking Paths
5. Playground
6. Arena
7. Walking Track
8. Gymnasium
9. Splash Pad
10. Exterior Pavillion / Stage
11. Exterior Skating Trail
12. Exterior Recreation Fields
13. Exterior Basketball Court
14. Parkland Space
15. Community Gardens
16. Programs in Studios
17. Exterior Pickleball Courts
18. Skateboard Park
19. Children’s Programs
When asked, “What are you most excited to see as part of the SRCL?”, the following themes
emerged from the respondents’ written comments (from 1,075 responses).
• Residents are excited and in support of building a new recreation complex. 170
respondents provided positive comments about the City building a new facility.
• The aquatics centre was mentioned the most with 221 respondents commenting that
they are most excited about this amenity. Many comments were made about ensuring
the pools are designed to be large enough to support demand.
• The library was mentioned 188 times.
• Residents are also excited about the gymnasium and its associated indoor sports (124
mentions), outdoor skating trail (123 mentions), and arena (89 mentions).
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When asked for additional comments, from 606 responses, many respondents reinforced their
excitement for the project (76 mentions) and hoped to see the facility built quickly (32
mentions). Several respondents (16 mentions) noted that public transit access to the facility
was important to them.
C.Design Changes to the Base Program requested through Public Engagement:
Based on the analysis of 3,444 written responses, the following design changes were
requested:
•Many respondents requested that the lap pool be sized for a minimum of eight lanes,
with several respondents requesting more than eight lanes. Many respondents also
commented that the pool viewing area shown in earlier concepts was not large enough.
The base program schematic design concept now reflects an 8 lane pool. The pool was
mentioned 353 times in written comments.
•Many respondents supported the inclusion of the outdoor ice skating trail. The outdoor
ice skating trail was mentioned 203 times in written comments. The outdoor refrigerated
skating trail is an amenity that is not currently included in the base program schematic
design concept, but will be included in future cost estimates as a potential addition to
the design.
•Several respondents requested that the indoor walking track be designed to
accommodate running, including training for track sports. The track was mentioned 149
times in written comments. An indoor walking track is included in the base program
schematic design concept, but would not be suitable for competitive running. Upgrading
the walking track to a running track suitable for recreational training purposes will be
included in future cost estimates as a potential revision to the design.
•Several respondents mentioned pickleball in written comments. Some suggested lit
courts. Pickleball was mentioned 101 times in written comments. Four outdoor
dedicated and lit pickleball courts are included in the base program schematic design
concept. Pickleball will also be available indoors in the gymnasium on six courts. An
area has also been reserved on the site plan, adjacent to the base program courts, for
up to four additional courts.
•Several respondents recommended the inclusion of soccer fields in the design of
outdoor amenities. Some suggested lit fields. Soccer fields were mentioned 89 times in
written comments. A soccer pitch is not currently included in the base program
schematic design concept; however, this amenity can be added at a future date without
impacting the project. Sufficient space will be reserved for this purpose in the site plan.
•Several respondents recommended the inclusion of an additional outdoor lit basketball
court. One lit full-sized outdoor court is already included in the base program schematic
design concept. An area has been reserved on the site plan, adjacent to the base
program court, for one additional outdoor lit basketball court.
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CAO 05-25 April 22, 2025
Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Page 14
All of these comments have been reviewed and options for their inclusion in the project will be
part of future project cost estimates and presented to Council for consideration after the
proposed project pause.
D.The Recommended Consolidated Base Program Schematic Design:
Three distinct design options were prepared and circulated for feedback during the public
engagement process. Each design option included different building placement on the site,
parking, road and amenity layouts. Each design option contained different benefits and
drawbacks, with the deliberate intention of seeing which considerations garnered the stronger
support or opposition. All three design options provided identical base building programs and
site amenities arranged in different configurations.
The base building program indoor amenities include the following:
1.full service library;
2.triple gymnasium supporting basketball, pickleball, volleyball, badminton, and other sports;
3.arena with two NHL-sized ice pads;
4.walking track;
5.aquatics centre including an eight lane lap pool and separate warm water leisure tank;
6.multi-purpose program rooms and children’s program areas;
7.fitness centre with fitness studios;
8.office space; and
9.supporting spaces like program viewing, reception area, lobby, mechanical and storage are
included in the base design.
The base building program outdoor amenities include the following:
1.four pickleball courts;
2.two tennis courts;
3.destination playground;
4.splash pad;
5.community-size skateboard park;
6.one basketball court;
7.community gardens; and,
8.approximately 500 public parking spaces, including accessible spaces.
Following the completion of the public engagement process, all collected feedback was
compiled and reviewed, resulting in a consolidated hybrid of all three previous options, to be
presented in staff’s Fall report to Council.
Further changes to the base building program, based on public feedback, will be presented in
the Q4, 2025 update report. This will include potential additions and reductions to the project
scope, along with estimated cost impacts for each change.
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CAO 05-25 April 22, 2025
Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Page 15
5.Q4, 2025 Update Report:
The “Fall Report”, delivered in Q4 2025, will provide recommendations regarding the SRCL
project next steps for Council’s consideration based on further financial and economic
information.
Attachment:
1.Summary of Public Engagement for Design of SRCL Design
Prepared/Approved/Endorsed By:
Original Signed By
Stan Karwowski
Director, Finance & Treasurer
Original Signed By
Brian Duffield
Director, Operations
Original Signed By
Laura Gibbs
Director, Community Services
Original Signed By
Richard Holborn
Director, Engineering Services
Original Signed By
Jackie Flowers
CEO/Director of Public Libraries
SK:
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CAO 05-25 April 22, 2025
Subject: Seaton Recreation Complex & Library Project Page 16
Recommended for the consideration
of Pickering City Council
Original Signed By
Marisa Carpino, M.A.
Chief Administrative Officer
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Seaton Recreation
Complex & Library
Community Engagement
Synthesis
2024.12.20
Attachment #1 to Report CAO 05-25
- 17 -
22
Community Engagement
Synthesis
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Engagement Overview
Public Open Houses
•Three in-person sessions
Oct 03, Oct 09 and Oct 15 Approx. 200 participants
Online Community Survey
•from Oct 1st to Nov 11th
1,075 participants
Youth/Student Outreach
•Three Pickering Secondary Schools &
Three Elementary Schools – 498
online surveys completed (included in
survey count above)
Stakeholder Input
•Pickering Swim Club, Ajax Pickering
Minor Hockey Association, the
Skateboard Community, and the
Pickering Library Board
1,750 group members
represented
Community Pop-ups
•20 Community pop-ups over 5-week
campaign; 61 hours spent
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Overview
1.What services or features of the Seaton Recreation Complex &
Library do you and/or your family plan to use?
2.How many times a week will you and/or family utilize the facilities
at Seaton Recreation Complex & Library?
3-14. Participants were asked to comment on the following for each of
the three options. (questions 3 through 14)
•The layout of spaces inside the building
•The layout of the amenities/outdoor features located around the
building.
•Access from parking areas to the building and site amenities
•What would you change and/or keep in this design option and
why?
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Overview
15.Which concept design is your preferred option?
16.What do you like most about this option compared to others?
17.What are you most excited to see as part of the Seaton Recreation
Complex and Library?
18.Tell us about your connection to Pickering.
19.Please tell us how long you’ve lived in Pickering.
20.Please select the age category that applies to you.
21.Please select the postal code for your household.
22.Are the any additional comments you’d like to share with us?
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Question 18: Tell us about your connection to
Pickering (select all that apply)
1075 responses received.
Data collected from Oct 1-Nov 11, 2024.
955, 70%
151, 11%
32, 2%
134, 10%
98, 7%
I live in Pickering
I work in Pickering
I am a local business owner
I am a member of a community association and/or volunteer in Pickering
Other
83% of respondents live and/or work in Pickering.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Question 19: Tell us how long you’ve lived in
Pickering
1075 responses received.
Data collected from Oct 1-Nov 11, 2024.
311, 31%
257, 25%
305, 30%
146, 14%
Less than 5 years 5-10 years 11-20 years More than 20 years
The majority of respondents have either
lived in Pickering for less than 5 years
(31%) or between 11-20 years (305).
The minority of respondents have lived in
Pickering for more than 20 years.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Question 20: Please select the age category that
applies to you
1075 responses received.
Data collected from Oct 1- Nov 11, 2024.
Most respondents are 12-19 years old.
The least amount of respondents are 70+ years
old.
514, 48%
76, 7%
333, 31%
119, 11%
33, 3%
12-19 years 20-29 years 30-49 years 50-69 years 70+ years- 24 -
Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Question 21: Please select the
postal code for your household
1075 responses received.
Data collected from Oct 1-Nov 11, 2024.
39, 4%
317, 29%
163, 15%
458, 42%
7, 1%
100, 9%
L1Y L1X L1W L1V L0H Other
91% of respondents live in Pickering.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Question 2: How many times a
week will you and/or your family
utilize the facilities at Seaton
Recreation Complex and library?
1075 responses received.
Data collected from Oct 1-Nov 11, 2024.
59, 6%
105, 10%
273, 25%
390, 36%
226, 21%
22, 2%
Daily 5-6 Times a week 3-4 times a week 1-2 times a week Rarely or as needed Never
Most respondents will use the facility 1-
2 times per week.
The second largest group of
respondents will use the facility 3-4
times per week.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback Question 1: What services or features of the Seaton
Recreation Complex & Library do you and/or your
family plan to use?
886 810
660 594 585 583 547 546 529 472 454 433 432 412 402 363 319 277 268
Top 5
Low 5
The middle
*1075 responses received, data collected from Oct 1- Nov 11, 2024.
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886 810
660 594 585 583 547 546 529 472 454 433 432 412 402 363 319 277 268
Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback Question 1: What services or features of the Seaton
Recreation Complex & Library do you and/or your
family plan to use?
•Swimming Pool and Library
are top two ranked programs.
•There is a significant interest
in the indoor fitness centre
and outdoor walking
opportunities.
*1075 responses received, data collected from Oct 1- Nov 11, 2024.
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886 810
660 583 547 546
363 268
SWIMMING
POOL
LIBRARY FITNESS
CENTRE
ARENA WALKING
TRACK
GYMNASIUM PROGRAMS IN
STUDIOS
CHILDREN'S
PROGRAMS
Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback Question 1: What services or features of the Seaton
Recreation Complex & Library do you and/or your
family plan to use?
*1075 responses received; data collected from Oct 1- Nov 11, 2024.Interior Spaces
•Library and swimming pool
are ranked highest.
•Fitness Centre is the third
most popular indoor
activity.
•There is an equally
distributed interest in the
Arena, Walking Track and
Gymnasium amongst
survey respondents.
Low 3
Top 3
Middle
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594 585 529 472 454 433 432 412 402 319 277
Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback Question 1: What services or features of the Seaton
Recreation Complex & Library do you and/or your
family plan to use?
•Walking path is the highest
ranked exterior program.
•Splash pad, playground
and pavilion all rank highly.
•There is significant interest
in including an exterior
pavilion, refrigerated
skating trail and sports
fields as part of the exterior
park amenities.
Exterior Spaces
Low 4
Top 4
Middle
*1075 responses received Data collected from Oct 1- Nov 11, 2024.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Question 15: Which Concept
Design is your preferred?
252
442 381
OPTION 1 OPTION 2 OPTION 3
1075 responses received.
Data collected from Oct 1- Nov 11, 2024.
Option 2 is the most preferred option by the survey
participants largely due to…
•The organization of building program
•Integration with nature
•Abundance of walking trails
•Organic massing
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Option 1 : Site Summary
Pros
•Good street frontage, urban, good-sized civic plaza. Positive feedback on promenade.
•Amenities are located centrally, and heavy use play areas are grouped together.
•Relaxed park feel to both the building and site.
•The location of most outdoor amenities are compact and in a central location.
•Best location of skate trail, pavilion, children’s area and pickleball.
•Positive feedback on parking lot located close to pickleball courts.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Option 1 : Site Summary
Cons
•Not enough integration between the building and green space, building shape fights with
natural layout of the surrounding areas.
•Parking in back is too concentrated, too far away from facility, and detracts from overall outdoor
aesthetic.
•Parking on northeast corner is not large enough to accommodate swim and skate programs.
•Skatepark and community gardens are too isolated; tennis and pickleball courts are too far
away from washrooms.
•Not enough walking trails around the building.
•Pavilion should have more area to accommodate larger crowds.
•Concern regarding drive aisle passing by children’s splash and play area and community garden.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Option 1 : Building Summary
Pros
•Lobby is central and provides a large meeting area, good circulation and large enough to host
programs.
•Building is orderly and easy to navigate with programmatic wings in each corner.
•Good programmatic separation for acoustics and giving user groups distinct corners of the
building.
•Lots of opportunities for natural light as aquatics centre and library have multiple facades.
•Reading garden next to library is preferred.
•Adequate space for pool viewing.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Option 1 : Building Summary
Cons
•Building layout and circulation feels choppy.
•Lobby feels like an exhibition hall, not as grand as other designs; has too much unused
space on both floors.
•Lobby is too far away from gym and library.
•Design feels bland, the building does not seem relaxing.
•Gym and fitness not close enough together and gym access is poor.
•Library on the second floor is not accessible from the lobby.
•Fitness studios and fitness centres are weird shapes. Not ideal for programming.
•More than two entrances is preferred.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Option 2: Site Summary
Pros
•Parking balance and access is good; grouping of outdoor spaces is preferred as no
activities are isolated.
•Site doesn’t feel overwhelmed by parking. No parking directly in front of entrances.
•“ I love how it incorporates nature throughout and has winding paths” “nestled with
nature”, green space surrounds the building.
•“It seems like a lot of people would come walk around the area especially in
summers.”
•Layout and proximity to building for splash pad, children’s play area and
community garden is preferred. Positive feedback on location of facilities by age
group.
•“Looks welcoming...I would enjoy walking around the outskirts of the building,
through the various areas.”
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Option 2: Site Summary
Cons
•Car-centric design as front lot is highly visible from main road. No promenade.
•Pickup/drop off circle and parking area is a bit far from entrance on south side.
•Outdoor amenities seem separated. Prefer that amenities are closer together but have spatial
dividers to create privacy. Hard to watch kids if amenities are so disparate.
•Pickleball and tennis courts are too close to the pavilion (noise concerns); Pickleball is too far
from parking lots and needs dedicated parking.
•Skate trail feels enclosed by building and parking and it is too small.
•Basketball court is by main road. Not safe.
•Community garden will be in the shadow of the building. Locate in full sun.
•Less options for expansion in the future.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Option 2: Building Summary
Pros
•Central lobby is good, very inviting space with easy access to indoor amenities. Nice large
atrium. Open layout of lobby allows a view to all amenities.
•“Feels more organic and looks unique. I can see this being a peaceful retreat” “cool-looking
building”, “I love the whimsical and curved lobby layout.”
•“I like everything about this design, wouldn’t change anything”
•Natural curves and multiple hallways would allow groups and noise to be better spread out
throughout the building.
•Library feels more removed from building (more access to light and more acoustic and spatial
privacy).
•Library has the same footprint on both floors which is good for wayfinding.
•Separate wings for programs is good. Four separate entrances is preferred.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Option 2: Building Summary
Cons
•Lobby seems narrow and not as functional.
•“Everything is all over the place.”
•Curved entrances create wasted space in the lobby. Angled walls make
everything inside feel squished and claustrophobic.
•Shape of the building limits too much of the outdoor use.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Option 3: Site Summary
Pros
•Quantity, distribution and access of parking areas is good.
•Urban side is compact which leaves a lot of room for open space and natural areas.
•Site layout provides room for expansion.
•Skate trail near arena entrance and kids’ area near the basketball court is preferred.
•Pavilion is separate from high energy activities and close to parking lot.
•Area for pavilion spectator overflow for larger events is good.
•Terrace garden is a nice feature.
•Outdoor space is behind the building structure which provides the opportunity for recreational
activities (Art fest, music fest) and summertime gatherings.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Option 3: Site Summary
Cons
•Unwelcoming, old fashioned, compartmentalized, utilitarian. Layout is too
industrial.
•A bit choppy and blocked up design.
•“Least preferred option as it fronts Burkholder too much.”
•Amenities too close together on south, but too separate on the north side.
•Activities are squished into one portion of the property leaving a large open area
that is underused.
•Outdoor courts and playground are too close to the road.
•Not enough trails.
•Access to Community Gardens is not ideal.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Option 3: Building Summary
Pros
•Indoor and outdoor amenities appear streamlined and accessible, easy to navigate,
compact & efficient, functional & balanced.
•Orthogonal design would be good for wayfinding.
•Wing design gives amenities separation.
•Related amenities are close to each other.
•“It is the best use of space, both internal and external in my view.”
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Option 3: Building Summary
Cons
•“Brutally inorganic, ugly bland suburban layout”. “Layout looks boring and boxy”.
“Too structured”. Utilitarian design. Compressed and boring.
•Library does not have same footprint on both floors (not as good for wayfinding).
•Library too far away from rest of building.
•Corridor to gym feels long and isolated.
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
What are you most excited to see as part of the Seaton
Recreation Complex & Library?
•221 respondents are excited about the aquatics facility.
•‘Probably looking forward to a new and modern pool.’
•‘A beautiful new recreation space for Pickering residents. We really need another pool (more lanes the better
for swim meets, etc.)’
•188 respondents are excited about the library.
•‘I am so excited for there to be a space for the community in Seaton! Just having the building and all the
amenities will be fantastic. I am most excited about library services coming to this area. It will make it a lot
easier to access books, programs, and learning, without having to drive all the way south.’
•170 respondents are excited about a new facility.
•‘A beautiful new recreation space for Pickering residents. We really need another pool (more lanes the better
for swim meets etc.), arenas, library, splash pads, etc. An outdoor skating loop is also a great idea! As our
community grows, we need more spaces for these things.’
•‘A modern community centre that is a true gathering space for our community’
•Residents are also excited about the gymnasium and associated indoor sports (124 mentions), outdoor skating
trail (123 mentions), and the arena (89 mentions).
1,075 Written Responses
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
What would you change about the design?
•The Aquatics Centre was mentioned 353 times in written comments.
•‘Extended pool viewing area. Swimming is a spectator sport. 10 lane pool’.
•‘Make sure the pool is eight lanes’.
•‘Curious about viewing decks from the pool? Where will parents watch their children in swim lessons, practice,
and during swim meets?
Many respondents would like to see a large aquatics facility to meet the demand for swim lessons, swim meets,
aquatics programs, and community use. Many respondents asked for larger pool area ranging between eight to
ten lanes and between 25m to 50m. Many people mentioned the importance of a viewing area for the aquatics
centre. The lap pool has been sized as eight lanes and 25 metres in the base design, and a viewing area has
been included in the lobby in the base schematic design.
3,444 Written Responses
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
What would you change about the design?
•The Outdoor Skating Trail was mentioned 203 times in written comments.
•‘I’m also excited to see the skating trail, very unique feature which the community will love, especially as more
people start to learn how to skate.’
•‘I also love the ideas of the Ice Skating Trail. There is one in Richmond Hill that is shaped like an 8 unlike a
skating rink and I’d love to have a similar one closer to home’.
Many respondents would like to see the outdoor skating trail included in the park.
•The Indoor Walking Track was mentioned 149 times in written comments.
•‘Replace the walking track with a running track’.
•‘It would be great to have indoor running track for track & field athletes. It is a lack of such facilities in Durham
region considering amount of track athletes’.
•‘Please add the 400m track for running community and track community in Pickering’.
There is clear interest in upgrading the indoor walking track to a running track that can be used for track & field
sports and training. Outdoor walking trails/pathways were are mentioned often (37 mentions from 1,075
responses), with people wanting space to walk and run outdoors as well.
3,444 Written Responses
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
What would you change about the design?
•Pickleball was mentioned 101 times in written comments.
•‘We need dedicated indoor pickleball courts – huge and growing sport and appeals to all ages.’
•‘Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in North America and I would love to see more pickleball courts with
lights’.
Many respondents expressed interest in using the planned pickleball facilities, both indoor and outdoor.
Sentiment around pickleball is the more courts, the better.
•Soccer was mentioned 89 times in written comments.
•‘Add soccer turf field’.
•‘I would keep everything and add some soccer nets’.
•‘I think there should be a soccer field’.
There is clear interest in adding a lit soccer field to the park.
3,444 Written Responses
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Seaton Recreation Complex & Library
Survey Results Feedback
Do you have any additional comments?
•The Community is excited about the new recreation complex (76 mentions)
•‘This will be fantastic for my kids! Very excited for this, we desperately need more recreational facilities for our
residents’.
•Many respondents hope to see the facility built quickly (32 mentions)
•‘This facility is long, long overdue, especially for us Pickering residents, whom live north of Taunton’.
•‘Looking forward to building being built quickly’.
•Many respondents appreciated the engagement process and ability to provide input (30 mentions)
•‘Thank you for working to ensure you listen to the community’.
•‘Excited for this development and appreciate the engagement with community for design’.
•Several respondents mentioned the importance of public transit and transportation to the site (16 mentions)
•‘This is an opportunity to induce demand for most active transportation in and around the community, even if
it may not be convenient in the present, it’ll be much better for the community in the long term’.
•‘I would like to see good biking and transit connections to this facility.’
606 Written Responses
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