The Capital Regional District is hoping an alternate approval process (AAP) can help solve two separate problems: the end of Sooke Skate Park, and the SEAPARC Recreation Centre being one of the region's largest emitters of greenhouse gases.
The CRD has begun a new AAP seeking to borrow upwards of $3 million in capital funds to replace the skate park and initiate a heat recovery project at SEAPARC rec centre.
Repair of the skate park, currently managed by SEAPARC, is “not a viable option," the CRD says. A public consultation process in 2024 led to the completion of a new skate park concept design that the CRD hopes to implement.
“The next steps in replacement will involve technical design, demolition and construction of a new skate park,” the CRD wrote in a news release.
As per the heat recovery project, the CRD found that SEAPARC is presently the second largest emitter in the region, responsible for 16 per cent of the CRD’s facility greenhouse gas emissions.
To meet climate targets for the CRD and the District of Sooke, SEAPARC has identified several projects, including the heat recovery project, in its 20-year capital plan to reduce emissions.
“The heat recovery project has been aligned with the end of life of several mechanical components, which need to be replaced through this project,” stated the CRD.
To proceed with the new projects, SEAPARC needs to achieve electoral approval to pass a new borrowing bylaw through the AAP process, allowing SEAPARC to acquire the funds.
Electors in the participating area can voice their opposition to the project by submitting an electoral response form.
SEAPARC may proceed with the projects, unless at least 10 per cent (1,826) of electors in the district of Sooke and Juan de Fuca Electoral Area indicate that they oppose the borrowing bylaw. If not approved, SEAPARC would need to obtain the assent of the electors by way of a referendum.
The deadline to submit a signed electoral response form is 4:30 p.m. on May 23.
More information on the Sooke Skate Park renewal can be found at getinvolved.crd.bc.ca
