Township of Manitouwadge Recreation, Parks and Facilities Master Plan Draft: April 6, 2021
Township of Manitouwadge Recreation, Parks and Facilities Master Plan
Contents
1.0 Introduction 2 1.1 Purpose of the Master Plan 2 1.2 Planning Process 3 2.0 Background and Community Context 6 2.1 Community Context 6 2.2 Manitouwadge Socio-Demographic Profile 8 2.3 Summary of Relevant Plans and Studies 11 2.4 Summary of Relevant Policies and By-laws 20 3.0 Programs and Events 26 3.1 Overview of Current Supply 27 3.2 What We Heard: Summary of Community Consultation 31 3.3 Assessment and Recommendations 33 4.0 Facilities 46 4.1 Overview of Current Supply and Use 46 4.2 What We Heard: Summary of Community Consultation 48 4.3 Assessment and Recommendations: New Facility Requirements 49 4.4 Assessment and Recommendations: Existing Facility Requirements 51 4.5 Assessments and Recommendations 54 5.0 Parks 67 5.1 Overview of Current Supply 67 5.2 What We Heard: Summary of Community Consultation 72 5.3 Park Assessment and Recommendations 74 5.4 Parks Policy 84
Table of Contents III 6.0 Service Delivery 90 6.1 Municipal Role and Structure in Providing Recreation Services 90 6.2 Partnerships, Collaborations and Supporting Other Providers 95 6.3 Service Planning and Evaluation 100 6.4 Policies, Procedures and Agreements 103 7.0 Implementation Strategy 114 Introduction 114 7.1 Implementation Considerations 115 7.2 Programs and Events Recommendations 117 7.3 Facilities Recommendations 120 7.4 Parks Recommendations 126 7.5 Service Delivery Recommendations 130 Appendix A: Community Consultation Summary 142 A1. Community Consultation Summary 143 A2. Highlights from Household Surveys 153 Appendix B: Programs Participation & Facilities Use 182 B1. Program Participation 183 B2. Facilities Use by User Groups 184 B3. Arena Schedule 186 Appendix C: Parks 188 C1. Community Orchard & Edible Forest Policy 189 C2. Parks Services and Memorial Program 198 C3. City of Kenora Parks By-Law 200 Appendix D: Service Delivery 218 D1. Parks and Recreation Committee 219
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D2. Committee Details/Terms of Reference 220 D3. The Corporation of the Township of Manitouwadge 223 Appendix E: Funding Opportunities 226 E1. Overview of Grant and Funding Opportunities 227
Table of Contents V List of Tables Table 2-1: Population Projections for Manitouwadge and Thunder Bay District 2021-2031 (Sources: Canada Census, Statistics Canada; Thunder Bay District projections from Ontario Ministry of Finance). Manitouwadge’s population projections calculated using average population growth rate from 1996 -2016. 8 Table 2-2: 2016 Manitouwadge Age Group Percentage (Source: 2016 Canada Census, Statistics Canada) 8 Table 2-3: 2016 Manitouwadge Age Group Percentage (Source: 2016 Canada Census, Statistics Canada) 9 Table 2-4: 2016 Thunder Bay District Age Group Percentage (Source: 2016 Canada Census, Statistics Canada) 9 Table 3-2: Recreation programs and activities available for each age group 28 Table 3-3: Township Events 29 Table 3-4: Population in Chapleau, Marathon, and Manitouwadge, 2006-2016 30 Table 3-5: Preschool programs at the EarlyON Centre 35 Table 3-6: Programs provided by the Manitouwadge Golden Age Centre 41 Table 4-1: Summary of municipal recreation facilities 47 Table 4-2: Facility Interests 49 Table 4-3: Population-based carrying costs 52 Table 4-4: User/Uses-based Carrying Costs for 2019 52 Table 4-5: 2018-2019 Curling Rink Revenues 57 Table 4-6: Revenues and Expenses of Kiwissa Ski Hill 60 Table 4-7: Net Costs and Cost Recovery 63 Table 4-8: Cost Recovery Figures 63 Table 5-1: Parks in Manitouwadge 70 Table 5-2: Total number of major park amenities in Manitouwadge 70 Table 5-3: Provision of selected municipal park amenities in comparable communities 71 Table 5-4: Proposed parks classification system 85 Table 6-5: Examples of Commemorative Tree and Bench Programs 110 Table 6-6: Curling Rink Budgeted and Actual Revenues 111
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Table 7-1: Implementation of Programs and Events Recommendations 118 Table 7-2: Implementation of Facilities Recommendations 120 Table 7-2: Implementation of Facilities Recommendations (continued) 122 Table 7-2: Implementation of Facilities Recommendations (continued) 124 Table 7-3: Implementation of Parks Recommendations 126 Table 7-3: Implementation of Parks Recommendations (continued) 128 Table 7-4: Implementation of Service Delivery Recommendations 130 Table 7-4: Implementation of Service Delivery Recommendations (continued) 132 Table 7-5: Estimated Costs for Recommended Facility Improvements 136 Table 7-6: Estimated Costs for Recommended Park Improvements 138 Table A-1: Groups invited to participate in the user group survey for the Master plan. 143 Table A-2: Results for Question 9, “Please Identify the factors that you think will contribute to stable or changing membership/participation levels in your organization over the next five years?” (N=3 Groups). 148 Table A-3: Results for Question 42, “What improvements does your organization think are necessary to facilitate your groups current or future use of parks?” (N=4 Groups). 151 Table A-4: Results for Question 16, “Please Identify the factors that you think will contribute to stable or changing attendance levels at your events over the next five years. (Please check all that apply).” (N=4 Groups). 151 Table A-5: Results for Question 59, “We are interested in your organization’s views concerning financial support for parks and recreation services development. Please indicate whether you agree or disagree with the following statements” (N=4 Groups). 152 Table A-6: Results for Question 10, “Of the facilities you or members of your household use, what are the top three most in need of improvement?” (N=71/200). 162 Table A-7: Results for Question 12, “What type(s) of facilities would you or members of your household be interested in using?” (N= 40/200). 163 Table A-8: Results for Question 17, “What activities do you engage in at these parks?” (N=159/200). 163 Table A-9: Results for Question 10, “Of the facilities you or members of your household use, what are the top three most in need of improvement?” (N= 28/95). 168 Table A-10: Results for Question 12, “What type(s) of facilities would you or members of your household be interested in using?” (N= 37/95). 170
Table of Contents VII List of Figures Figure 2-1: Manitouwadge Context Map 7 Figure 2-2: Projected Population Aging for Thunder Bay District from 2016-2031. Numbers/ Percentages may not add up due to rounding. (Sources: Canadian Census, Statistics Canada; Ontario Ministry of Finance Population Projections). 10 Figure 3-1: Results for the top three municipalities for Question 23, “In which programs or activities do you or members of your household participate in each of the municipalities?” (telephone survey) 31 Figure 3-2: Icestock Sport 38 Figure 3-3: Possible Topics for Short Duration Programs 40 Figure 4-1: Manitouwadge Community Centre - Image provided by the Township of Manitouwadge 46 Figure 4-2: Manitouwadge Curling Club - Image provided by the Township of Manitouwadge 51 Figure 4-3: Manitouwadge Arena - Image provided by the Township of Manitouwadge 54 Figure 4-4: Kiwissa Ski Hill - Image provided by the Township of Manitouwadge 61 Figure 5-1: Lions Beach - Photo provided by the Township of Manitouwadge 67 Figure 5-2: Parks and Facilities Map 68 Figure 5-3: Prospector’s Park - Image provided by the Township of Manitouwadge 72 Figure 5-4: Tobogganing Area - Image provided by the Township of Manitouwadge 73 Figure 5-5: Example of an outdoor exercise station 75 Figure 5-6: Proposed location for the outdoor education centre at Lion’s beach 77 Figure 5-7: Example of a gazebo/shade structure 77 Figure 5-8: Sharing Library at Agawa Gardens (Photographed by Reene Warren) 80 Figure 6-1: Municipal Organizational Structure for Parks and Recreation Services. *Note: one staff member rotates between the Golf Course in summer, and Ski Hill in winter. Therefore, the two positions with the asterisks are held by one individual. 91
VIII April 2021 Township of Manitouwadge Recreation, Parks and Facilities Master Plan 1.0 Introduction 1.0 Introduction 1.1 Purpose of the Master Plan The Township of Manitouwadge embarked On the demand side, the community has on a study to prepare a Recreation, Parks experienced a significant decline in population and Facilities Master Plan that will provide over the last 20 years, as its resource based the Township with long-term direction for the economy has changed and jobs have been provision of recreation and parks services to the lost. As a result, recreation facilities are able to community’s residents and visitors. accommodate more use and programming than now occurs. The Township of Manitouwadge is unique in many aspects: in its remote location, its As a forward-looking strategy to overcome abundance of natural assets, its mining origins, these challenges, the Township has a strong and its generous supply of recreation facilities. focus on economic development through The Township also faces certain challenges recreation and tourism, and in so doing, making to its provision of recreation services, namely the most of the unique assets of Manitouwadge a small and shrinking residential population to revitalize the community. This Recreation, and tax-base, an insufficient commercial and Parks and Facilities Master Plan aligns with and industrial tax base, and as a result, an over- supports other recent projects in the Township reliance on grant funding for investments in to promote recreation and tourism, and as such recreation. will play an important role in guiding the future of Manitouwadge.
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1.2 Planning Process The process to develop the plan consisted Phase 3: Needs Assessments and of four phases: Project Initiation and Background Research, Public and Stakeholder Draft Report Consultations, Needs Assessment and Draft Report, and the Final Master Plan. Phase three of the project began in December 2020, and involved completing assessments Phase 1: Project Initiation and for programs and events, facilities, parks, and service delivery based upon the information and Background Research feedback collected during phases one and two. Once a list of recommendations was finalized, Phase one of the project took place between an implementation program was developed. September 2020 and November 2020. It The full draft Master Plan was submitted to the involved completing a review of background Township for review and comment in mid-March documents and data, preparing a socio- 2021. demographic profile, compiling inventories, conducting a delivery system review, and Phase 4: Final Master Plan conducting interviews with Council and staff. Eight interviews were completed with The final phase will involve revising and finalizing Councillors and senior staff. An interim report the draft based on feedback provided by that detailed the findings from phase one was Council and staff, and was completed in April prepared and submitted to the Township in 2021. January 2021. Implications of COVID-19
Phase 2: Public and Stakeholder The entirety of the Master Plan development Consultations process took place during various phases of lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Phase two of the project began in mid- This changed the business-as-usual approach November 2020 and was completed early to planning in two major ways. The consulting February 2021. Public and stakeholder team was unable to visit Manitouwadge due consultations involved online and telephone to travel restrictions, and concerns about surveys and an online engagement page on community spread from a high case load area mymanitouwadge.com, that received 404 visits/ (the Greater Toronto Area) to a low case load views. There were three separate surveys: area (Manitouwadge). Out of an abundance a resident telephone survey, resident online of caution, the Township and consultants survey (comprising the same questions as the agreed a site visit was unadvisable, and as a telephone survey), and a user group survey for result the consulting team relied on satellite, organizations in the Township that use parks internet research, photos provided by the and facilities, and/or provide programming and Township, and many phone conversations activities. The telephone survey target totaled to gain an understanding of the ‘lay of the 200 responses, the online survey received 95 land’. Secondly, the team was unable to hold responses, and five organizations submitted in-person consultations such as open houses completed user group surveys. or face-to-face interviews. Instead, the team used telephone calls, video conferencing, online engagement tools (Bang the Table, Survey Monkey), and surveys to interact with residents and stakeholders.
1.0 Introduction 3
Township of Manitouwadge Recreation, Parks and Facilities Master Plan
Township of Manitouwadge Recreation, Parks and Facilities Master Plan 2.0 Background and Community Context
2.0 Background and Community Context 5 2.0 Background and Community Context 2.1 Community Context The Township of Manitouwadge is located in 13. Township of Schreiber Northwestern Ontario within the Thunder Bay District Census Metropolitan Area. The Thunder 14. Municipality of Shuniah 1 Bay District consists of 15 municipalities : 15. Township of Terrace Bay
1. City of Thunder Bay Thunder Bay District has a total population of 2. Municipality of Greenstone 146,048 with a total land area of 103,722.82 square kilometres. Of that total, Manitouwadge 3. Municipality of Neebing has land area of 352 square kilometres and a population of 1,937 (2016 Census of Canada). 4. Municipality of Oliver Paipoonge The closest municipalities to Manitouwadge 5. Town of Marathon are each approximately 100 kilometres away: Marathon (99 kilometres southwest, population 6. Township of Conmee of 3,273) and White River (104 kilometres southeast, population of 645), which is located 7. Township of Dorion in the Algoma District. Manitouwadge is a 8. Township of Gillies remote Northern Ontario community that is approximately 50 kilometres north of the Trans- 9. Township of Manitouwadge Canada Highway by way of Highway 614, which is the Township’s only access route. The closest 10. Township Nipigon large urban centres to Manitouwadge are the City of Thunder Bay (389 kilometres southwest, 11. Township of O’Connor population of 107,909) and Sault St. Marie (419 12. Township of Red Rock kilometres southeast, population of 73,368) (Figure 2-1). 1 Association of Ontario Municipalities. (2021). Thunder Bay District Municipalities. https://www.amo. on.ca/about-us/municipal-101/ontario-municipalities
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The settlement area of the Township of Manitouwadge comprises a mix of land uses – three residential areas joined by commercial, recreational and institutional land uses. The Township of Manitouwadge is located in the Canadian Shield, north of Lake Superior in the midst of surrounding boreal forest, and is home to Manitouwadge Lake, Little Manitouwadge Lake, Tickle Lake and Perry Lake. Manitouwadge’s natural features, including its lakes, forests and wildlife, are an integral part of its identity. The Manitouwadge Economic Development Corporation’s “Play In the Extreme” motto highlights the Township’s natural identity as many residents and visitors enjoy outdoor recreation activities such as canoeing, snowshoeing, hiking, hunting, fishing, ATVing and more.
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© © Figure 2-1: Manitouwadge Context Map
2.0 Background and Community Context 7 2.2 Manitouwadge Socio-Demographic Profile
Based upon projections using the calculated Age Category Year: 2016 % of the average growth rate from 1996 to 2016, the Total Township of Manitouwadge’s population is 2 0-4 year of age expected to be 1,681 in 2021. The population 75 3.9 of Manitouwadge is projected to decline by 13.2% within the next ten years to 1,266 by 5-9 year of age 2031. Due to the closure of mines in the area, 90 4.6 Manitouwadge experienced job losses and a 10-14 years of age decline of population since the 1990s. However, 85 4.4 the population of the Thunder Bay District is expected to increase to 155,200 by 2031 (Table 15-19 years of age 125 6.4 2-1). 20-24 years of age 85 4.4
Year Manitouwadge Thunder Bay 25-29 years of age District 95 4.9 2021 1,681 153,000 30-34 years of age 80 4.1 2026 1,459 154,800 35-39 years of age 2031 1,266 155,200 110 5.7
Table 2-1: Population Projections for Manitouwadge 40-44 years of age and Thunder Bay District 2021-2031 100 5.2 (Sources: Canada Census, Statistics Canada; Thunder Bay District projections 45-49 years of age from Ontario Ministry of Finance). 120 6.2 Manitouwadge’s population projections calculated using average population 50-54 years of age growth rate from 1996 -2016. 180 9.3
55-59 years of age 205 10.5
60-64 years of age 180 9.3
65 years of age and older 410 21.1
Total 1,940 100
Table 2-2: 2016 Manitouwadge Age Group Percentage (Source: 2016 Canada 2 Manitouwadge population projections calculated Census, Statistics Canada) by using the average population growth rate from 1996 to 2016: 14.5+13.1+22+8.5+7.9 = 66; 66/5= 13.2; Average population growth: -13.2% per year
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The population age distribution of Manitouwadge shows that a majority of the Township’s population comprises middle or older age groups, with the average and median ages of the population being 45.3 years of age and 50.3 years of age, respectively (2016 Census of Canada). The largest age group in Manitouwadge is between15 and 64 years of age, which is 65.7% of the total population (Tables 2-2 and 2-3). Age Groups % of Total Population
0-14 years of age 12.9 15-64 years of age 65.7 65 years of age and 21.1 older
Table 2-3: 2016 Manitouwadge Age Group Percentage (Source: 2016 Canada Census, Statistics Canada)
Similar to the aging population of Manitouwadge, the Thunder Bay District’s population is also comprised of a majority aging population (Table 2-4). The total population of the Thunder Bay District is expected to increase steadily over the next ten years (Figure 2-2). However, both Manitouwadge and the Thunder Bay District should expect a growing population in the age group between 15 and 64 years of age and 65 years and older age groups over the next decade, and a decline between the 0 to 14 years age group.
Age Groups % of Total Population
0-14 years of age 15 15-64 years of age 65.7 65 years of age and 19.4 older
Table 2-4: 2016 Thunder Bay District Age Group Percentage (Source: 2016 Canada Census, Statistics Canada)
2.0 Background and Community Context 9 Projected Aging Population for Thunder Bay District 2016 - 2031 60000
50000
40000
30000 Population
20000
10000
0 2016 2021 2026 2031 0-19 Years 29900 30374 30761 30481 20-44 Years 43135 48338 49520 49954 45-64 Years 44735 41582 36730 33621 65+ Years 28270 32670 37751 41175
Age 0-19 Years 20-44 Years 45-64 Years 65+ Years
Figure 2-2: Projected Population Aging for Thunder Bay District from 2016-2031. Numbers/Percentages may not add up due to rounding. (Sources: Canadian Census, Statistics Canada; Ontario Ministry of Finance Population Projections).
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2.3 Summary of Relevant Plans and Studies This section provides an overview of the relevant • Community Strategic Plan, 2017 plans and studies that were considered in developing the Parks, Recreation and Facilities • Community Centre Roof Study, 2018 Master Plan. • Community Centre Accessibility Study, 2018 Plans and Studies include: • Community Centre HVAC Study, 2018 • Township of Manitouwadge Official Plan, 1986
• Community Centre Feasibility Study, 1992 • Waterfront Development Study, 1992 • Parks, Culture and Recreation Master Plan, 1993
• All Season Outdoor Experience Complex Feasibility Study, 2002
• Corporate Strategic Plan, 2007-2011 • Needs and Gap Analysis and Marketing Study, 2013
• Municipal Service Delivery Review, 2013 • Asset Management Plan, 2013 • Community Profile, 2014 • Multi-year Accessibility Plan, 2016-2021
2.0 Background and Community Context 11 Township of Manitouwadge Official Township of Manitouwadge Plan Community Centre Feasibility Study The Official Plan was completed in 1986 The Community Centre Feasibility Study outlines the policies that guide future growth completed in 1992 evaluated the capacity to and development in Manitouwadge through a fund critical and beneficial improvements and set of guiding goals and objectives. The Plan renovations of the Community Centre. The discusses the main areas of focus and policies 1992 Study included estimates of the capital relating to growth and development in the and operating costs for multiple amenities in the Township: residential, commercial, industrial, Community Centre to help improve services to environment, recreation, energy conservation users. and physical environment. Key Considerations for the Master Plan: Key Considerations for the Master Plan: • High resident interest for an indoor pool, • The Plan acted as the framework for which led to a recommendation for a small land use planning and developing for the scale 3-lane pool (the bather load was below Township for 1986 until 2006, and has not the typical threshold for supporting a pool). been updated since • The existing multi-purpose spaces • If the division of land is required and were school gyms, church halls and the approved by the Township, the Township auditorium at the Community Centre, which may acquire up to 5% of land for park were at maximum capacity of use during purposes or cash-in-lieu if is deemed prime-time hours. unsuitable. • Residents and volunteer groups indicated • the Township must maintain current high need for an additional space. Study dedicated parkland and provide more park recommended a 3000 sq ft space. lands. • Recommendation to expand the central core • There are three types of park that are of the centre (restaurant, kitchen, curling plausible for parkland dedication for the club areas, dressing rooms, storage and Township to have as neighbourhood and office). park facilities: Neighbourhood Parks (0.5 hectare), Neighbourhood playgrounds (0.5 • The total cost for all improvement hectare), and Community Parks (1 hectare). recommendations for the Community Centre was close to $5 million with annual operating costs of approximately $200 000, which was not financially feasible at the time, so there Recommendation to implement a phased program to gradually pay for costs.
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Township of Manitouwadge Township of Manitouwadge Parks, Waterfront Study Culture & Recreation Master Plan The Waterfront Study was completed in The Parks, Culture and Recreation Plan was 1992 to outline the potential opportunities for created in 1993 to help the Township make local residents and visitors by developing the informed decisions concerning their facilities, Township’s waterfront. The possible future programs, parks and services for leisure to development of the waterfront will provide accommodate community transition in an greater recreational, cultural, and residential evolving local economy. benefits for the Township. Key Considerations for the Master Plan: Key Considerations for the Master Plan: • Greater focus on long-range planning, • Develop a Central Waterfront, public beach administration and management roles by area, public boat launch, trails system, transitioning to a management role in leisure campgrounds, improve channel access to programming, helping to coordinate support the Little Manitouwadge Lake, and create a and resources for service delivery. new housing community. • Restructure the organization of the leisure • Potential for greater business opportunities services department to be more aligned if waterfront developed through greater boat with practices of other municipalities to help and pedestrian traffic. improve implementation.
• Concern about the water quality of Lake • Revise the Township’s parkland Manitouwadge due to the nearby mining classifications and standards to encourage operations at the time, which may still be of greater use of parks. concern. • Examine ways the Township can diversify outdoor leisure space resources to meet the desire for more parkland and acquire more land to increase supply.
2.0 Background and Community Context 13 Township of Manitouwadge All Season • Recommendation to create a portable skateboard park in the Township. Outdoor Experience Complex Study • Encourage the provision of public and The Outdoor Experience Complex Study was private open spaces for recreation purposes completed in 2002 for the Township to explore to meet the level of use by Township prospective economic opportunities for outdoor residents and visitors. recreation activities and facilities. The study helps determine how to market the Township’s • All lands located in designated urban brand of outdoor recreation activities and areas to be considered as Community facilities to support a new tourism industry. Improvement Areas and discourage urban development in designated rural areas. Key Considerations for the Master Plan:
• Provided a market analysis for various recreation activities: skiing, snowboarding, Township of Manitouwadge Corporate ecotourism/adventure travel, ATV/ Strategic Plan snowmobiling, and special events. The Corporate Strategic Plan was developed as Potential to hold competitions, e.g. skiing, • a guiding document for the Township for 2007 snowmobiling, snowboarding/tubing/ until 2011. The Plan discussed the strategy that toboggan. will direct the Township’s decisions for municipal • Identified the ski hill as ‘one of the best in council, administration and residents. northwestern Ontario’ and was to act as the anchor for the new Outdoor Experience Key Considerations for the Master Plan: Complex – summer uses were to include The vision statement for the Plan outlines trails for hikers and cyclists, as well as a • the main areas of focus for the municipal venue for special events and a skateboard corporation: the building of communities that park. ensure security, affordability, inclusivity, trust, • Suggested potential partners: School health, spirit and opportunity. Boards, ski club, snowmobile club (Manitou The mission statement highlights the Sno Drifters). • importance of partnerships, accessibility and • Opportunities for motorcross/snowcross accountability to support the vision of the racing venue – Canadian Snowcross Racing municipality. Association. • The corporate values outline the principles • Festivals have the potential to draw people of the municipal government to ensure the from half a day’s drive away. Festivals in the delivery of governance and local services to region included a drag races in Terrace Bay, their workforce and residents. the Sioux Lookout Blueberry Festival, and The strategic directions of the Plan the Thunder Bay Blues Festival. • outline the goals and objectives of the • Recommendations for capital investment in municipal corporation to fulfill their role to Kiwissa Ski Hill for future use (e.g. better lifts, the community within a five year planning special event venue, picnic area, additional period. ski run for snowboarders).
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Township of Manitouwadge Municipal Township of Manitouwadge Asset Service Delivery Review Management Plan The Municipal Service Delivery Review, which The Asset Management Plan was completed was completed in 2013, provides an overview of in 2013 and provides an outline of the the potential opportunities for the Township to Township’s finances associated with existing reduce costs, improve efficiency and generate infrastructure and the potential costs for future more revenue for the delivery of municipal municipal infrastructure investments and capital services. The Township of Manitouwadge has reinvestments. There are significant costs historically been a resource-based economy, associated with maintaining infrastructure to and has experienced a significant decline in remain viable and efficient. population as mining operations left the area, which has impacted municipal costs and service Key Considerations for the Master Plan: delivery. • A decline in the condition of existing Key Considerations for the Master Plan: infrastructure highlights the need to invest funding for improvements/upgrades. • The population of Manitouwadge has decreased every year from 1991 to 2011, a • To improve the state of existing municipal 47% decrease. infrastructure, it will cost approximately $19 million over the next ten years. • Residential taxes are high and increasing, yet property values are one of the lowest • The overreliance on grant programs for compared to other municipalities. funding by the Township has resulted in inconsistent funding streams for • The costs to operate a number of facilities in infrastructure investments. the Township are high, such as the Kiwissa Ski Centre, golf course and clubhouse, and • There is a lack of support for increased the Community Centre. municipal taxes as employment and pension income earned by residents has declined • Adjust service levels and develop a new significantly over the last decade. municipal funding model to determine a more appropriate level of financial support • Recommendation to implement a new for municipal services and facilities, and to financing strategy that will protect current generate a greater cost recovery. levels of capital investment and introduce a 5-year capital levy of 2%, pursue grant programs, and use debt financing.
2.0 Background and Community Context 15 Township of Manitouwadge Needs and Township of Manitouwadge Gap Analysis and Marketing Study Community Profile The Marketing Study was completed in 2013 The Community Profile was completed in 2014. and provides an overview of the potential The profile for the Township of Manitouwadge opportunities and pressing challenges to was developed as part of its participation in investment in the Township. The focus the Nuclear Waste Management Organization’s for the Township is to find ways to attract (NWMO) Learn More Program’s Adaptative investment and grow the capacity for economic Phased Management (APM) Project, for development to the area by the creation of communities interested in hosting a nuclear investment incentives. waste site. The profile is a comprehensive document of information about the community’s Key Considerations for the Master Plan: assets, history, current conditions and future objectives of the Township. The community’s The Township emphasizes two main target assets are organized into five perspectives or sectors: secondary (mining, forestry, tourism) “lenses”: human, economic, infrastructure, and tertiary (retail and services). social, and natural environment. • The Township identifies recreation assets, a skilled workforce, and low cost housing as Key Considerations for the Master Plan: strengths; and its location, aging population, • The Township’s population has been and low volume of qualified labour as steadily declining since 1996 and primarily limitations. comprises an aging community. There are opportunities for investment in • • Community participation in recreation underutilized built areas, local entrepreneurs, activities and programs has significantly and the potential for an emerging bio-mass declined in recent years. energy sector in the North. • An inadequate supply of local • There are challenges associated with the accommodations available for visitors. loss of the mining sector and a declining forestry sector, the increasing threat of • Manitouwadge is experiencing challenges forest fires, and legislation that limits some with the progression of the tourism sector recreation activities, such as hunting and due to its relatively isolated location. trapping, which could negatively impact tourism. • Manitouwadge has a number of outdoor recreation facilities and activities to offer, • The study recommended that the Township such as parks, trails, fishing, hunting, In partnership with various organizations and trapping, which is intertwined with a or groups, develop a strategy to attract close-knit community identity, which can investment to the community, such as be positive attributes to prospective new an investment attraction program by residents and visitors to the Township. Manitouwadge Economic Development Corporation and Council.
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Township of Manitouwadge Multi-year Township of Manitouwadge Accessibility Plan Community Strategic Plan The Accessibility Plan 2016-2021 outlines the The Strategic Plan, completed in 2017, provides objectives and actions by the Township to work a framework of key actions for the Township to toward improving access and opportunities for help Manitouwadge remain appealing to current people with disabilities. The Accessibility for residents, prospective residents and visitors by Ontarians and Disabilities Act (AODA), passed building a robust community support system in 2005, aims to make Ontario fully accessible to foster opportunities. The plan outlines five by 2025, and involves establishing accessibility fundamental actions: economic development, standards for five areas: customer service, community infrastructure, cleaning up the transportation, information and communications, Township, and communications, which builds employment, and built environment. upon the Township’s vision statement in the Official Plan. Key Considerations for the Plan: Key Considerations for the Master Plan: • To ensure high quality customer service through proper training of staff and • Volunteers are important to the community volunteers. to support local activities, programs and events, such as recreation programs and • To develop and implement policies, clubs, and there is a need to build an procedures and practices on how the evolving system that supports and rewards Township will work toward achieving the dedicated volunteers in the community. Integrated Accessibility Standards. • Foster greater economic opportunities in • To ensure all people with disabilities are Manitouwadge by supporting economic given equal opportunity and accommodation programs, such as Sustainable Youth by the Township during employment Entrepreneurship Program and the NWMO recruitment processes. “Learn More” Program to build interest in the “WHY Chose Manitouwadge” campaign to • To ensure that all workplace locations are provided with emergency response encourage investment into the Township. information and accommodations that are • The need to preserve the Township’s required for all employees. assets and infrastructure by identifying infrastructure priorities concerning operation, programming, and maintenance for future use, including funding models and maintenance and replacement schedules.
• The importance of investing in the Township’s visual appearance by updating regulations and guidelines regarding property standards, zoning provisions and By-law Enforcement to help uphold community pride for Manitouwadge through maintenance and beautification.
2.0 Background and Community Context 17 • The continuation of open and transparent Township of Manitouwadge communication channels between the Township and its residents that aim to keep Community Centre Accessibility Study everyone remain connected and foster a sense of community among the various local The Community Centre Accessibility Study interests. was completed in 2018 to identify needed upgrades in the Community Centre to bring it to Township of Manitouwadge compliance with Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) standards. Community Centre Roof Study Key Considerations for the Master Plan: This study was completed in 2018 to assess the existing roof of the Community Centre. The • Key Recommendations from the study study provided the costs and recommendations included upgrades to the entrance ramp, for repairs and upgrades. door operators and hardware, curling lounge millwork, a vertical lift for the basement and Key Considerations for the Master Plan: second floor, and the washrooms.
• There were two different roofs assessed in • Estimated total direct costs (architectural, the study: the curved arena roof and the mechanical, electrical) were $341,153. two-storey roof.
• Significant problems with the curved arena roof and a recommendation to have a full roof membrane replacement, with vapour barrier and insulation, with an estimated cost of approximately $1-2 million (cost depends on energy efficiency from addition of vapour barrier and insulation), with a 20-25 year lifespan.
• The two-storey roof was nearing the end of its life cycle within a few years from the time of the study and needed to be replaced.
• There was a recommendation for a full roof replacement with insulation, which would cost approximately $669,500. An alternative option was $12,500 to just address only drainage issues, although replacement was the perferred option.
18 April 2021 Township of Manitouwadge Recreation, Parks and Facilities Master Plan
Township of Manitouwadge Community Centre HVAC Study The Community Centre HVAC Study was completed in 2018 to evaluate the building systems for heating, ventilation and air conditioning of the basement ice plant room and the main rink area within the Community Centre. The study provides information on the existing conditions of the HVAC systems and the estimated costs for operation, upgrades, and repairs. Key Considerations for the Master Plan:
• There were recommendations to upgrade the ice plant machine room to be compliant with current CSA-B52 Mechanical Refrigeration Code regulation, such as by replacing the supply and exhaust fans in arena, or the heat recovery ventilator, which will cost an estimated $33,000.
• The arena has no dehumidification units, so for the addition of an arena dehumidification system was recommended by adding either new mechanical dehumidifier units, or a desiccant wheel dehumidification unit, which would cost an estimated $188,500.
• There was also a recommendation to conduct a full energy audit of the centre, which would cost an estimated $28,000 to address deteriorating, inefficient, and poorly controlled equipment.
2.0 Background and Community Context 19 2.4 Summary of Relevant Policies and By-laws This section provides an overview of the relevant Disposal of Real Property By-law 98-14 policies and by-laws reviewed as part of the background research for this Plan: The Disposal of Real Property By-law 98-14 was implemented in 1998 to amend By-law 95-49 • Disposal of Real Property By-law 98-14 to establish procedures for the disposal of real property. • Sale and Disposition of Land Procedural Policy Key Considerations for Master Plan: Volunteer Policy and Application ADM2011- • Standard property disposal by-law per 01 • the Municipal Act: Township must declare • Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulation the property surplus, obtain at least one Policy ADM2016-01 appraisal (exemptions: if purchaser is a public body, exemptions under municipal act • Student Councillor Policy 2016-03 subsection 193(4), O. Reg 815/94), and give notice to public. • Community Revitalization Advisory Committee, By-law 2019-25 Sale and Disposition of Land • Strategic Asset Management Policy TR2019-001 Procedural Policy
Services and Charges By-law 2020-08 The Sale and Disposition of Land Procedural • Policy was implemented in 2007 as Schedule “A” to By-law 2007-43 by the Township of Manitouwadge to outline guidelines for Council to follow prior to a sale of land.
Key Considerations for the Master Plan:
• Outlines the procedure for sales and disposition of land as follows:
1. Property declared surplus
2. Appraisal of property
3. A public notice
4. Indication of interest
5. Circulation of interest
6. An indication from Council to determine the status of a possible sale
7. Prepare invitations for tender or request for quotations
20 April 2021 Township of Manitouwadge Recreation, Parks and Facilities Master Plan
Volunteer Policy and Application Integrated Accessibility Standard ADM2011-01 Regulation Policy ADM2016-01 The Volunteer Policy and Application ADM2011- The Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulation 01 was implemented in July 2011 by the Policy ADM 2016-01 was implemented in 2016 Township to provide a guideline for staff and by the Township and outlines accessibility volunteers to ensure a safe and enjoyable standards requirements for all public and private environment and learning experience for sector organizations under the Accessibility volunteers in Manitouwadge. for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005. The policy implements regulation in the areas of Key Considerations for the Master Plan: employment, information and communication and transportation for the Municipality of • Outlines responsibilities and expectations of Manitouwadge in accordance with Ontario the Township and of volunteers Regulation 191/11, which was enforced in 2011. • Outlines procedures/responsibilities for recruitment, orientation, training, safety, Key Considerations for the Master Plan: supervision and performance management. • The policy works in accordance with the regulation to meet its requirements. • Volunteers are expected to submit a resume and application stating the kind of work they • The development of a multi-year accessibility would like to do for the Township, and their plan, which will be reviewed and updated at availability. least once every five years.
• Accessible self-service kiosks. • Providing training on Ontario’s Integrated Accessibility Standards and the Ontario Human Rights Code concerning persons with disabilities to all Township employees and volunteers.
• The procurement and acquistion of goods, services or facilities that incorporate accessibility criteria,
• The availability of accessible information, communication formats, and support at fair costs.
• To ensure a fair and equal employment recruitment processes by the Township by having accommodations available for applicants and employees with disabilities.
2.0 Background and Community Context 21 Student Councillor Policy 2016-03 Community Revitalization Advisory The Student Councillor Policy 2016-03 was Committee, By-law 2019-25 implemented in September 2016 to establish The Community Revitalization Advisory a structure for appointing a non-voting student Committee, By-law 2019-25 was implemented Councillor on Council. The appointment in November 2019, and is an ad hoc Committee provides an opportunity for students to gain of Council. learning experience. Key Considerations for the Master Plan: Key Considerations for the Master Plan: Created to provide advice to Council A student Councillor may be appointed to • • on the development of the Community Manitouwadge Council from October – June Revitalization Planning Study, Community each school year. Improvement Plan and Logo Redesign • Policy lays out responsibilities of student projects. councillor. • Contains general rules for the operation of • Student may collect community service ad-hoc committee meetings. hours for their time. • Committee to work with consultants hired • Student is paired with a mentor from for the projects, host public information the Township for orientation, guidance, sessions, create annual reports to Council, coaching, etc. make recommendations to Council on priority actions, strategies, issues; act as • Student may add items to the agenda and conduit between community and Township; make presentations to Council but may not monitor and advance the progress of the move or second a motion, or participate in Community Revitalization Study. employee matters. • The structure of the Committee is as follows: one Councillor, one representative from the Economic Development Corporation, two community members with businesses in the area, one youth, one Indigenous representative, one other community member, Mayor, plus non-voting members: Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk, Economic Development Officer, planning manager, FedNor, Ministry of Energy, Northern Development & Mines, and Superior North Community Futures Development Corporation.
22 April 2021 Township of Manitouwadge Recreation, Parks and Facilities Master Plan
Strategic Asset Management Policy Services and Charges By-Law 2020-08 TR2019-001 The Services and Charges By-law 2020-08 was implemented to create a framework to establish The Strategic Asset Management Policy fees for certain licenses, permits, certificates TR2019-001 was implemented in December and for various services. 2019 to certify support for the asset management program by Council and establish Key Considerations for the Master Plan: leadership and commitment. • Outlines prices for recreation facilities in Key Considerations for the Master Plan: Manitouwadge.
• Alignment to Community Strategic Plan • Kiwissa Ski Centre: has memberships, daily Key Priority “Community infrastructure” rates, and package rates. Also offers hill and – Compared to other similar sized chalet rentals. communities, Manitouwadge has a significant amount of assets and • All prices increased for 2020, but made infrastructure to manage, and much of it changes to student (previously ages 11 needs improving/replacing. to 22, now 15+) and children (previously ages 10 and under, now 14 and under) age • Staff responsible: Council, Executive Lead ranges broader. (CAO/Clerk-Treasurer), Management Team, Departmental Staff. • Golf course: same as above. Also has golf cart rentals and trail fees for privately owned • Key principles from Infrastructure for Jobs carts, BBQ rental, clubhouse rental, and and Prosperity Act 2015. tournament fees.
• Capitalization threshold for playgrounds: • Oasis pool: group and private lesson fees, $50,000. aqua-size program fee, a variety of family swim passes (for summer, monthly, weekly, daily etc.), pool rental (different prices for private vs non-profit). Prices for swim passes went up significantly in 2020 (16 – 50%).
• Various rental fees: Auditorium, two meeting rooms, arena (winter and summer), Curling Club lounge.
• Lease agreements with the Curling Club, fitness facility, and Northern Trails Ski Club.
2.0 Background and Community Context 23