RECREATION MASTER PLAN
TABER, AB
2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Executive Summary ....................................................................................................................................................1
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................................5
Recreation Services ....................................................................................................................................................5
Purpose and Scope......................................................................................................................................................5
Process …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6
Current Recreation Facilities ………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 8
Demographics
Taber …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 10
Alberta ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………... 11
Recreational Trends – Provincial ………………………………………………………………………………………………..12
Community Engagements
Workshop # 1 ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….22
User Group Survey ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….24
Household Survey # 1 ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………24
Workshop # 2 …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 29
Household Survey # 2 ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….... 30
Recreation Priorities ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………44
Appendices …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….47
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Town of Taber’s Strategic Plan states “we strive to create the conditions for success in a familyoriented environment, with our spirit of community reflected in all we do.” It also contains the
following strategic initiative: “To improve the quality of life for Town residents and, following a
Recreation Master Plan, invest in the Town’s recreation facilities and opportunities.”
In 2015, the Town began the process to prepare a Recreation Master Plan. The previous plan had been
completed in 1985. Council asked that the Recreation Master Plan be prepared by Town
Administration without the aid of a consultant, and a process involving stakeholder consultations
and two community surveys was utilized. It was also decided to focus on recreation facilities rather
than programs in the master plan because of resource limitations and the understanding that capital
expenditure decisions are typically larger and more permanent than programming decisions.
The Town of Taber Recreation Master Plan 2016 discusses the process involved and the results in
depth. It should be consulted for detailed information about recreational interests and desires in
Taber. For a simple look at the priorities identified during the process, the summary below provides
an overview.
Recreation Priorities Summary
The following lists recreation facilities in order of their ranking according to the data gathered in
Household Survey #2. The bullet points under each facility are also listed in the priority given by the
survey participants. (For a full list of comments please see appendix E.)
1.
2.
3.
Upgrade Walking Trails
• extend it
• lighting
• finish it
• exercise stations added at various points
• add washrooms
• water fountain
• add poop bags
• add more garbage bins
• maps “you are here”
• interconnection with other park facilities
Indoor Walking Track
• include in Fieldhouse
• incorporate into the arena
• make it user friendly for all ages
Upgrade Swimming Pool
• online registration
• leisure pool slide
• family slide
• climbing wall
• large inflatable toys
• better toys
1
4.
Create a Bike Path System
• interconnected to parks and other points of interest
• separate from the walking path/sidewalks
• bike racks placed in strategic places
• incorporate into streets
5. Upgrade Auditorium
• update the interior appearance
• upgrade audio system
• improve bathrooms
• more bathrooms for big events
• upgrade walls
• take court lines off the floor
• more hand driers in the bathrooms
• improve parking
6. Upgrade Playgrounds
• more activities for all ages
• bathrooms
• upgrade equipment
• picnic tables
• more equipment
7. Upgrade Large Ice
• new sound system
• more stand heaters
• upgrade seating area
• protective white netting for better viewing
• improve dressing rooms
• improve ice surface
• new score clock
8. Indoor Fieldhouse
• indoor walking track included
• fitness centre included
• multi-sport indoor fields/courts included
• indoor play structure included
• climbing wall included
9. Upgrade Small Ice
• heat for seating area
• make into a full ice surface
• improve seating
• increase seating
• improve ice surface
• add a sound system
• wheelchair accessible
• time clock at ice level
10. Fitness Centre
• include with field house/ indoor walking track
• studio space for rent to offer yoga, boot camps and other fitness classes
• close to or connected to pool
2
11. Amphitheatre
• design it for concerts in the park
• permanent stage for Cornfest
• sound booth on the side
• build a basic stage structure
• relocate and enlarge the existing stage
12. Upgrade Dog Park
• trees/shade areas to sit
• water supply for drinking
• washrooms
• lighting
• shelter area
• double gated entry
• identification sign
• water supply for irrigation
• agility track improvements
13. Climbing Wall
• add to an existing facility (pool/auditorium)
• equipment rental available
• large wall requiring climbing gear/training
• smaller bouldering wall (requires no equipment)
• separate climbing facility
• provide lessons
14. Upgrade Ken McDonald Ball Diamonds
• washroom facilities
• trees/shade
• concession
• finish 4th diamond
• lighted diamond
• wheelchair accessible
15. Mountain Bike Trails
• create and maintain a trail system near MD Park
• signs indicating trails, distances, and current location along the trail
• connect to walking and biking trails in town
• parking area for unloading and loading
16. Upgrade Track & Field Oval
• washroom facilities
• trees/shade
• rubberize track surface
• more spectator seating
• improve middle field surface
• add outdoor fitness equipment
3
CONCLUSION
Through the course of this process, we have learned that the challenge in today’s world is keeping
up with the trends and demands of our community. We undertook this process in an effort to
determine the priorities for recreation based on the perspective of the users, and the information
obtained from this process will guide the Town in the future. It will be used to assign priorities and
budgets, as well as to identify areas requiring further research.
The Town of Taber wishes to thank everyone that was involved with providing feedback at the
workshops and on the surveys.
4
INTRODUCTION
1.1 RECREATION SERVICES
Recreation has been defined as an “activity done for enjoyment when not working” (Oxford
Dictionary) and as “all those things that a person or group chooses to do in order to make their
leisure time more interesting, more enjoyable and more personally satisfying” (National
Recreation Statement)
There are many benefits to recreation which include:
- Improved health and wellbeing,
- Balanced human development,
- Enhanced quality of life,
- Reduction in self-destructive and anti-social behavior,
- Building strong families and healthy communities,
- Reduction in health care and social service calls,
- Economic stimulation and activity, and
-
Improved environmental wellbeing.
Regardless of age, gender, or income levels, recreation has the potential to deliver many benefits.
1.2 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
The last Recreation Master Plan for the Town of Taber was completed in 1985. Since then many
changes have occurred in the community. As the community has grown over the years there has
been an increased awareness of the need to be sustainable while still meeting the growing
demand for new trends and emergent activities as well as meeting higher expectations for facility
design and services.
The vision of the Town of Taber’s Strategic Plan states “we strive to create the conditions for
success in a family-oriented environment, with our spirit of community reflected in all we do”.
One of the specific goals stemming from this vision is to “create and promote recreational
opportunities and facilities that are regionally recognized in all seasons”. This updated plan will
assist in fulfilling this vision by identifying how the town is currently achieving these goals.
Further, it will assess the community’s desired direction for future recreational opportunities.
It is the responsibility of the Town of Taber to effectively plan for the future. This will involve
difficult decisions regarding how we allocate and expend our fiscal resources. It is the Town’s
responsibility to ensure resources are expended in a manner that derives the greatest good for
Taber’s residents and the community.
This Recreation Master Plan was compiled to assist decision makers, stakeholders and the
general public to understand the identified needs and priorities related to recreation in our
community.
5
1.3 PROCESS
In 2015, the Town Administration began the process of developing a Recreation Master Plan. As
directed by Council, this was done in-house using staff resources. With limited resources and
experience, this was a learning process for all involved. New insight was gained as each area was
completed and new knowledge and insight helped to direct and identify the nest steps. We were
fortunate to have a temporary staff expert in Bradon Valgardson, who has a Master’s Degree in
Statistics, which greatly enhanced the quality of our final product.
Facility
Inventory
Demographics
& Trends
Recreation
Planning
Workshop #1
& User Group
Survey
Household Survey #1
Recreation Planning Workshop #2
A detailed list of all the Town’s facilities.
A detailed list of Town programs and services.
Demographics of the community and trends in
recreation usage.
Session with the main Recreation user and interest
groups in the community
PowerPoint – Description of our assets
Interactive Session – what are our strengths?
Interactive session – what are our shortfalls?
Interactive session – what does the
community need?
Interactive session – What is being planned
by groups?
User Group Survey conducted in association with
workshop #1
A municipal and area survey with a variety of
questions
requesting
information on what
recreational activities the public believes are most
important as well as similar questions from the
workshop discussions.
Plan Development
Second session with main recreation user and
interest groups in the community.
Review of first household survey results
Breakdown of results from 1st survey into
more detailed vision of outcomes
Second survey designed to assess specific facility
development desires among a stratified random
sample of community members.
Administration develops a draft plan to be reviewed
by Recreation Board.
Open House
Town holds an open house to check the draft plan
with the public for acceptance.
Finalize Plan
Draft Recreation Master Plan presented to Council
for approval.
Household Survey #2
6
7
Current Recreational Facilities
The following is a list of all the recreation facilities located in the community.
TOWN OWNED LEASE FACILITIES:
•
•
Arts & Crafts Centre
Curling Rink
•
•
•
Fitness Centre – Bodymasters Gym (private)
Golf Course
Indoor Archery
•
•
Legion Park Campground
Legion Youth Centre
•
Taber Gymnastics Fitness Club (private)
COMMUNITY CENTRE COMPLEX:
•
Aquafun Centre Indoor Swimming Pool
•
•
Auditorium/Stage/Kitchen
Main Ice Arena
•
•
Meeting Rooms
Small Ice Arena
OUTDOOR FACILITIES:
•
Ball Diamonds
- Central School (2)
- Confederation Park (2)
- Taber Christian School (1)
- LT Westlake School (2)
•
•
Ken McDonald Memorial Sports Complex
- Ball Diamonds (3)
- Playground/RV Area
- Soccer Pitch (2)
- Soccer/Football/Rugby Field with Lights (1)
Mini Soccer Facility (8 fields)
•
•
Soccer – St. Mary’s School Pitch
Tennis Courts
•
•
•
Taber Skatepark
Taber Spraypark
Track and Field Facility
•
Walking Trail System
8
PARKS, PLAYGROUNDS AND GREEN SPACES:
•
Cenotaph Park
•
•
•
Confederation Park
Cornstalk Park
Ernest Meyer Memorial Park
•
•
Grounds of Administration Building
Grounds of Police Station
•
•
Heritage Estates Park
Kinsmen Park
•
•
•
Kiwanis Park
Lions Park
Majestic Park
•
•
McGrath Estates
Old Rodeo Grounds Park
•
•
Park Place Park
Park 75
•
•
•
Prairie Lakes Park
Sunrise Park
Wailen Park
•
•
Westview Park
55 Ave Boulevard
9
Demographics of Taber
The most recent census (2016) for the Town of Taber indicates the total population is 8,380. This
represents an increase of 3.3 percent over the past 5 years (population of 8,104 in 2011) and an increase
of 9.4 percent over last decade (population of 7,591 in 2006). The figure below depicts the age and
sex of Taber residents which was obtained from the 2016 census. As shown the largest group of Taber
residents are females over the age of 75. The largest age group of males is age five through nine. The
second largest female age group is the zero to four years old. The smallest age group for both males
and females are those who fall in the 70 to 74 years of age category.
AGE
Town of Taber: Age-Sex Distribution, 2015
75+ yrs.
70-74 yrs.
Males
65-69 yrs.
Females
60-64 yrs.
55-59 yrs.
50-54 yrs.
45-49 yrs.
40-44 yrs.
35-39 yrs.
30-34 yrs.
25-29 yrs
20-24 yrs
15-19 yrs.
10-14 yrs.
5-9 yrs.
0-4 yrs.
350 300 250 200 150 100
50
0
50
100 150 200 250 300 350
Number of Citizens
For comparison purposes, population graphs have been provided 0n the next page, for both
Taber and the Province of Alberta.
When comparing the graphs, it shows that Taber has a younger population (0-19 years old) than
Alberta as a whole. Also, the baby boom and baby boom echo are less obvious in Taber’s population.
This likely because Taber has not been as effected by the immigration of young adults (25-35 years
old) as compared to Alberta as a whole.
10
Town of Taber
% according to age and sex
75+
70-74
65-70
60-64
55-59
50-54
45-49
40-44
35-39
30-34
25-29
20-24
15-19
ten-14
five-nine
0-4
5
4
3
2
1
females
0
1
2
3
4
5
2
3
4
5
males
Alberta
% according to age and sex
75+
70-74
65-70
60-64
55-59
50-54
45-49
40-44
35-39
30-34
25-29
20-24
15-19
ten-14
five-nine
0-4
5
4
3
2
1
% female- AB
0
1
% male- AB
11
RECREATIONAL TRENDS
(Source – Foundations for Action – Enhancing the Quality of Life in Alberta)
Listed below are a variety of trends that pertain to the Province of Alberta. The source for this
information comes from Alberta Recreation and Parks Association – Foundations for Action –
Enhancing Quality of Life in Alberta. The trends listed play a big role in the project “Vision 2015”.
This project is designed to change the way municipalities and stakeholders view recreation in the
province with set goals to effect change. These are larger level trends, prepared at the provincial level,
but many of these trends are evident and applicable to Taber as a community. This is evidenced in
feedback from our users and in the workshop comments. In order to be effective, we have to change
the way we think and carry out actions.
DEMOGRAPHIC TRENDS
Growing and increasingly diverse, Alberta needs recreations and parks services that are
affordable, culturally sensitive, welcoming and appealing to a wide range of ages. At present,
some who could benefit most from these essential services are poorly served.
1.
Young yet aging. An influx of young workers has made Alberta the youngest province
in Canada. But our average age is climbing as child/youth cohorts shrink and many baby
boomers enter retirement. By 2050, more than a quarter of Albertans will be 65 plus.
Implications: Expect school closures and lower registration in children’s programs
coupled with rising demand among older adults for leisure services previously associated
with middle age.
2.
Canada’s fastest growing province. Every year since the turn of the century, Alberta
has posted the nation’s strongest population growth.
Implications: Communities are experiencing more demand for services and greater
pressure on natural capital.
3.
Growing aboriginal population. One in every 20 Albertans is aboriginal: nearly half
are under age 20. More than three quarters live off the reserve. Earning lower than
average income, they struggle with lifestyle-related health issues.
Implications: It is crucial to ensure that Aboriginal peoples have access to effective and
culturally sensitive wellness initiatives, recreation programs, services and facilities.
4.
Increasing diversity. Nine out of every ten visible minority Albertans live in Calgary
or Edmonton but smaller, rural communities are home to newcomers, seniors, singles
and others who may be at risk for isolation.
Implications: There is a growing need to address language barriers, educate staff about
cultural sensitivity and match programs and services to increasingly diverse interests.
12
5.
Rural to urban shift. Many rural communities are losing youth and shrinking in size
as urban centres grapple with expansion.
Implications: Both urban and rural communities are struggling. Urban growth rarely
pays for itself in property tax income, while loss of businesses and jobs makes it hard for
smaller centres to sustain the services and amenities needed and desired by residents.
6.
Shallower roots. People are putting down less permanent geographical roots and
forming international communities of interest. But they seek “people places” that are
alive and active as well as attractive places that invite creativity, celebrate diversity and
nurture growth.
Implications: Communities cannot settle for mediocrity, sprawl, intolerance, disparity,
exclusivity, and environmental degradation. To thrive, they need inviting people places,
parks and streetscapes that offer authentic cultural and recreational experiences.
ECONOMIC TRENDS
Whether measured in dollars or in human benefit, the significance of recreation and parks
is escalating as the Alberta economy shifts from resource extraction to knowledge-based
enterprises. Besides fueling creativity, active leisure pursuits have the potential to save
health dollars and build bridges between citizens who otherwise would not benefit from
knowing each other.
1.
A shifting economy. Alberta can expect moderate growth coupled with lower than
normal unemployment until conventional oil and natural gas sources significantly
decline. In-migration of workers will continue, although slower than last decade.
Success will depend on our ability to grow a value added knowledge-based, green
economy.
Implications: Potential exists for increased investment in recreation, parks, and other
leisure services, particularly those that clearly enhance health and wellness, improve
quality of life, add economic value and steward the environment.
2.
Shifting wealth. People older than 50 hold more than half of North America’s wealth,
although the shift of wealth to the elderly is tempered in Alberta by young urban
professionals and resource workers. The older cohort is no longer least able to pay for
services, yet seniors continue to receive the deepest discounts in many cases.
Implications: While remaining vigilant and sensitive to the needs of low-income
seniors, it is important to support younger Albertans who are less able to afford
recreation and parks services.
13
3.
Growing gap between rich and poor. Personal bankruptcy and credit card debt are
higher in Alberta than the national average, and many individuals face financial pressure.
Evidence of lost human potential is stark. More than 80% of low income Albertans
report chronic conditions, compared to about 55% of upper income Albertans.
Implications: As the field’s preventive and remedial capacities become more widely
understood, recreation and parks will be challenged to offer strategic leadership and
effective solutions. In that light, it’s crucial to address the fact that increasing reliance
on fees for programs and services impacts affordability and accessibility.
4.
Recreation and parks gaining significance. In recent years, recreation and parks has
tended to be seen as a frill and thus secondary (even tertiary) to other services. Now
there is a promising shift, at least in rhetoric, to triple-bottom line public planning that
places social/cultural and environmental goals alongside economics. Even in purely
economic terms, recreation injects more than $2.2 billion into Alberta’s GDP and creates
22 000 FTEs of direct employment, and is growing. Private recreation enterprises are
likely growing faster than public ones, but parks remain primarily public.
Implications: Economic stature and acute need enhance the field’s ability to advocat e
for expanded investment. What better time for recreation and parks to shoulder its
historic role as an agent of wellbeing and quality of life.
14
ENVIRONMENTAL TRENDS
Dramatic evidence that we are reaching a tipping point in our abuse of the environment is
tapping a groundswell of citizen action. Governments, corporations and recreation and
parks leaders lag behind at a time when environmental leadership is utterly crucial.
1.
Climate change is proving real. Although the cause is still debated, average global
temperature is expected to climb five to eight degrees this century. Already we are
seeing accelerated glacial melting, threatened ecosystems and exaggerated swings in
weather.
Implications: Climate disruption will dictate many operational changes including
dramatic reductions in resource use. Extreme weather events will directly impact the
field. Outdoor interpretive programs offer excellent venues for helping citizens
understand the significance of climate change.
2.
Looming water scarcity. Water is already a pivotal environmental issue, especially in
southern Alberta. Demand continues to rise even as water supply dwindles due to
retreating glaciers and reduced snow pack.
Implications: Local governments must play a lead role in ensuring that water is used
wisely by individuals as well as public and private institutions. Necessary strategies
include improved watershed management, drought resistant plantings, automated lowuse irrigation and low-flush toilets. Aquatic facilities, in particular, will need to rethink
how they operate. The provincial Water for Life Strategy deserves careful attention by
all involved.
3.
Growing sense of stewardship. With climate change a front-burner issue, grassroots
concern about our environment is combusting into action on many fronts, from local
food and community garden movements to land use trusts to watershed advocacy.
Implications: Already challenged by drought and other extreme weather events,
recreation and parks must prepare for even more significant shifts, modeling foresight
and stewardship.
4.
Designing with Nature. Sprawling suburbs enclosed by security fences have consumed
vast tracts of land while turning the car into a necessity. Belatedly, communities are
realizing the wisdom of design that invites mixed uses, walking, biking and other active,
environmentally friendly transportation. We are also learning to build in ways that
produce rather than consume energy.
Implications: Recreation and parks must advocate community design that invites
active living and transportation, and governments must make sustainable, healthy
design the norm rather than the exception.
15
BEHAVIORAL TRENDS
Epidemic obesity and other chronic illnesses due to sedentary living up the ante for
recreation and parks, which holds the expertise to pull people into healthier lifestyles. The
field must respond to key trends, including a shift to less structured short-term leisure and
volunteer experiences.
1.
Epidemic obesity and inactivity. Canadian children are 40% less active than 30 years
ago, and childhood obesity has tripled. More than half of Canadian adults say they are
overweight (35%) or obese (16%). Although the number of Albertans who are regularly
active rose to 54% in 2005, up from 26% in 1981, nearly half are still not active enough
for health benefits. Older Canadians are even less active, at a time in life when activity
is integral to managing chronic disease.
Implications: Coordinated action by recreation, health, education and families is
urgently needed to translate awareness about the health benefits of physical activity into
positive behavior change. Recreation and parks is well positioned to facilitate the shift
through active lifestyle coaching and concentrated attention to physical literacy from an
early age.
2.
Leisure snatched on the go. Most Albertans say they value leisure time more than
work, yet many are challenged to integrate leisure into their lives. Feeling rushed, they
do leisure in small chunks, often multi-tasking.
Implications: Recreation and parks can serve genuine needs by providing islands of
calm amid the hubbub of life. Programs need to be flexibly packaged, with fewer long
courses and more short workshops. It’s crucial to minimize or eliminate waiting times
and to reduce any feeling of being rushed. Quality assurance is also increasingly
important.
3.
Clear shift away from structured activities. Many Albertans seek individualized,
informal pursuits (walking, gardening, crafts, hobbies, bicycling) that can be done at
flexible times near or at home. Only a third sign up for organized sport, a sharp decline
from earlier decades.
Implications: A concerted shift is needed from facility-based programming to trails,
passive parks, needs-based drop-in programs and other flexible offerings that are fun
and “for life”.
4.
Episodic volunteerism. Although Alberta is still ahead of the pack in volunteerism,
today’s volunteers are less numerous and more apt to want shorter stints than in the
past. Retiring baby boomers offer an excellent pool of talent that could help address
volunteer gaps and burnout.
Implications: Tasks must be sliced into smaller segments, which increases the number
of volunteers needed. Seniors can help fill gaps, but must be recruited and support ed
well.
16
RECREATION PROGRAMMING AND DELIVERY TRENDS
Given the importance of physical activity and play at all ages, it is essential to rebuild capacity
and ensure excellence in community recreation and sport programs and services.
1.
Ensuring quality programming. Children need quality play to develop into healthy
adults who are assets in their communities. Yet children are dropping out of sport
programs, and less than one in five adults in a national 2002 survey said they were
confident that community sports are promoting positive values and building character.
Implications: Specific strategies to ensure the quality of children’s recreation activities
are essential, to get serious about children’s “creative play”.
2.
Rebuilding community sport. Despite commitments made to community sport in
the 2002 Canadian Sport Policy and 2003 Alberta Sport Plan, governments continue to
focus more on high-performance sport than on grassroots and developmental programs.
Recent restraint has further fractured the system as communities attempt to deliver
more and become more accountable with fewer resources.
Implications: With the onus for grassroots program development remaining at the
local level, it is essential to unite and reorient the energy of local sports organizations,
community, city and school boards. A similar challenge faces the nonprofit sport
community supporting high performance athletes.
ORGANIZATIONAL AND LEADERSHIP TRENDS
Recreation and parks has always worked closely with other sport, culture and youth serving
organizations. Now the circle is expanding to include health, social services, justice,
education, the corporate sector and community service agencies. Forging partnerships
demands expanded skills at the very time when recreation and parks is losing many leaders
to retirement.
1.
Partnering across quality of life fields. In some municipalities, recreation and parks
have been integrated into larger community services departments that may also include
libraries and other services. Traditional joint-use agreements with education are
expanding to include planning and programming to address youth inactivity and other
community needs. Reaching across departments, the field works with police on public
safety and youth initiatives: with planning and engineering on greenways and active
transportation.
Implications:
Shared roles and increased accountability demand dramaticall y
expanded skills, both to deliver recreation and parks services and to advocate for the
fields’ capacity to deliver increasingly important upstream benefits.
2.
Public-private partnerships. Across Alberta, public-private partners construct new
facilities, private operators run public facilities and public services are contracted out.
To be successful, those partnerships need strong and comprehensive agreements,
improved accountability and excellent communication.
17
Implications: Forging and evaluating public/private partnerships requires contract
management competencies that have not been traditional in the field. Relevant training
is essential to improve partnership outcomes and to ensure public policy outcomes are
achieved.
3.
Embracing new technology.
Recreation and parks benefits from numerous
technologies, including bar-coded entry systems, web-based program registration,
improved facility security, GIS mapping and voice-activated PDAs. Used well, those
technologies manage and track information, model alternative courses of action,
expedite customer service and improve education and awareness.
Implications: New technology and communications would be embraced and used to
optimize key programs and services without replacing personal interaction.
4.
Fluid work. Employee loyalty has shifted from the organization to the team. Younger
workers expect to participate in decision making and are more apt to choose selfemployment, part-time work, flexible schedules and team-based projects whose goals
match their own.
Implications: Frequent shifts in staffing will occur, and there will be increased weekday
use of facilities and open spaces especially casual drop-in use.
5.
Leadership and staffing gaps. Baby boomers hired during the rapid expansion of the
‘70s are approaching retirement at a time when leadership and knowledge capital are
already eroded due to the cutbacks and bottom-line management of the’90s. An even
more significant gap is opening at the entry level, both in recreation and parks and in
non-profit society management.
Implications: The future of the field demands focused attention to recruitment,
training and succession planning.
6.
Liability, insurance, injury. Insurance costs are rising, as are community and legal
expectations that recreation programs be safe. Yet volunteer recreation and parks
organizations have limited capacity to develop risk management programs and pay high
insurance rates. Injuries do occur, especially in the more extreme sports that attract
youth. Nor is injury the only risk, particularly for those with an overwhelming urge to
win.
Implications: Issues such as liability, illegal use of drugs, over-training and eating
disorders need united research and response. Risk management should not be a
constraint to active citizen participation in recreation activities.
18
INFRASTRUCTURE TRENDS
Wild swings in funding for local recreation infrastructure have left Alberta with an inventory
of aging, single-use facilities plus a handful of newer multiplexes that heavily depend on user
fees to balance budgets. As a result, many Albertans lack access to inviting facilities while
others stay away because they cannot afford the fees.
1.
Aging infrastructure. Funding for Alberta’s community recreation infrastructure
dropped sharply in the 1990s, and remains much lower than in prior decades. Much of
that infrastructure is entering the last quarter of its viable life and suffering from
insufficient capital maintenance. Analysis of more than 130 facilities by ARPA and
partners found many older facilities with envelope, code, mechanical and slab problems.
Multipurpose centres built in the 1980s are in better shape but need work, particularly
the aquatics components. Few communities have undertaken proper lifecycle capital
maintenance.
Implications: Besides being a significant drain on municipal budgets, many facilities
are ill-suited to today’s mix of recreation interests and pose health, safety and access
concerns. Upgrading Alberta’s pools, arenas and curling rinks would cost at least $314
million, with replacement cost as high as $1.7 billion. Communities also must commit
to lifecycle planning and management of their facilities.
2.
Bilateral commitment to renewal. In August 2005, the Federal/Provincial/Territori al
Ministers Responsible for Sport, Recreation and Physical Activity identified sport and
recreation infrastructure as their top priority and committed to a bilateral strategy for
renewal, with municipalities responsible for operation and maintenance funds.
Reinvestment, to date, has included Alberta’s two-year Major Community Facilities
Grant Program and eligibility as fundable elements in other capital grant programs.
Implications: Continued advocacy is needed for ongoing capital funding that is tied to
lifecycle planning. Upgrades and new recreation facilities must be environmentally
sound and should consider integrating related services that augment health and
wellness.
3.
Serving multiple sectors. Interest is growing in multi-service centres that meet a
broad range of quality of life needs. This one-stop approach not only suits multiple
interests but increases the likelihood that diverse community members will build
rapport.
Implications: It’s essential for recreation and parks to work with residents and with
other Quality of Life fields to create facilities that suit emerging patterns and encourag e
more people to be active and engaged in community life.
19
HEALTH PROMOTION AND WELLNESS TRENDS
No single discipline has the resources to mobilize individuals, let alone entire communities,
to dramatically increase their physical activity. Nor can we rely on mass media alone to
promote good health. People need consistent, relevant messages and models that reach
them where they live, work and play.
1.
Collaborative health promotion. Increasingly, local, provincial, national and
international organizations are teaming up on integrated initiatives grounded in
determinants of health. ARPA can play a key role by connecting recreation and parks
staff with nutritionists, doctors and other health professionals who are responsible for
promoting physical activity but may not have the expertise or resources to give concrete
recommendations. The field can also help to identify the recreation interest of specific
segments of the market. Although recreation and parks has done effective work in
confirming its wide ranging benefits, those have not been communicated in a way that
engages other sectors.
Implications: Recreation and parks must put energy into demonstrating the crucial
contributions it can make to a community based health and wellness model.
2.
Plethora of messages. Increased focus on physical activity as a key to population
health has resulted in multiple and sometimes conflicting messages. Recommen ded
physical activity levels vary from one disease to another, and nutrition information can
be equally confusing. Yet the groundswell of promotion does open opportunities for
action. Concern about obesity, for example, is spurring support for increased physical
activity in communities, schools and workplaces.
Implications: All fields must work across boundaries to capitalize on communication
opportunities and avoid confusing citizens with conflicting messages.
GOVERNMENT AND GOVERNANCE TRENDS
There is a marked shift from top-down government to shared governance, both to stretch
public dollars and in the hope of developing social capital as people work together.
Governments are increasingly apt to speak of social and economic policy as inter-related and
equally in need of investment, although actions do not always match those words.
1.
Shift to shared governance.
Public services and goods increasingly involve
partnerships and citizen engagement.
Implications: Shared governance provides new opportunities to demonstrate the
upstream benefits of recreation and parks. It also demands new skills, including
facilitation and collaborative leadership, especially at the local community level.
2.
Sharply diminished provincial leadership and funding. Provincial government
funding of recreation and culture declined more than 40% in recent decades even as
more responsibilities devolved to local governments. Fully 95% of municipal recreation
20
and parks expenditures now come from local revenues, prompting a 90% increase in
user fees over a decade.
Implications: Cost has replaced time constraints as a leading barrier to participation.
Recreation and parks must seek funding from the corporate sector while aggressivel y
advocating for inter-ministry/public sector investments.
3.
Softening of the “fiscal agenda”? The fiscal restraint, cutting of the 1990s has given
way to a more balanced approach that recognizes local needs. Alberta’s rural
development strategy, for example, commits to supporting programs, youth leadershi p
and infrastructure with the hope of revitalizing rural communities.
Implications: Funding may be available for services that improve quality of life, but
outcomes must be clearly demonstrated. The recreation and parks field will need to
engage directly with agencies and departments responsible for rural development.
4.
Municipalities emerging as a major force. Both federal and provincial governments
are increasingly apt to treat local governments as significant players rather than merely
“children of the province”.
Implications: The time is ripe for communities to advocate for the capacity and senior
level government support to ensure that citizens receive full access to essential
recreation and parks services.
21
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENTS
WORKSHOP #1 (SEE APPENDIX A)
A primary interest in the development of this plan was to include the key stakeholders and members
of the community. The first workshop to explore the Town’s recreation needs was held on January
28, 2015 at the Community Centre. An invitation was given to every known user group to send a
maximum of two delegates to represent the group’s interests and to discuss recreation facilities and
services in Taber. In total, 28 members of the community attended representing 17 different sport
organizations.
The workshop was broken into 3 components in order to gain a greater understanding of the
direction stakeholder’s desired recreation in Taber to progress. Listed below is a summary of
responses received.
1. EXISTING FACILITIES
a. Strengths
•
Facilities are well used and affordable
•
•
•
Central locations
Certain facilities have capacity to host large events such as the Auditorium
Adequate parking
•
•
Top notch facilities for a community this size
Well maintained facilities considering the aging infrastructure
b. Shortfalls
•
•
Not enough facility space available to use or rent (i.e., Ice)
Insufficient marketing/promotion
•
Lack facilities for new trends (indoor walking path, indoor soccer, BMX, and
fitness programs)
•
•
Insufficient seating (bleachers on soccer fields/small ice)
Aging Infrastructure
•
•
Poor sound systems
Need to complete existing facilities that have been built
22
2. PROGRAMS/SERVICES
a. Strengths
•
•
•
Good programs for seniors
Awesome volunteers
Friendly/helpful staff
•
•
Broad range of services available
Good communication from Town to user groups
•
Free/Sponsored programs and events in place (i.e., walking, swims, skating,
Canada Day, Cornfest)
•
Good marketing & promotion
b. Shortfalls
•
•
•
Few programs with low commitment/cost requirements
No online registration process
Lack of coaches/officials
•
•
Lack of volunteers due to burnout
Inadequate updates on Town website
•
•
Town is reactive rather than proactive
Need more programs to accommodate demands
3. WISH LIST
Participants were asked to identify their top 3 items they would like to see enhanced or
built in the community with regards to recreation. The results are listed below.
Multi Use Facility (21 responses)
Second full size Ice Surface (12 responses)
Expanding Walking Trails (10)
Finish the 4th Ball Diamond at KMMSC (9)
Auditorium Upgrade (7)
Agri-plex Warm-Up Arena (4)
Repair existing Facilities (3)
Dog Park Lights (2)
Indoor Walking Track (2)
23
USER GROUP SURVEY
All known user groups in Taber and area were sent a User Group Survey. Only 5 surveys were
returned and two of those five were incomplete. Due to the lack of information received, we were
unable gather any viable information from this area.
HOUSEHOLD SURVEY #1 (SEE APPENDIX C)
1. General
The workshop was designed for stakeholder groups to identify recreational needs and interests.
To obtain the opinion of the general public, a survey was developed, in house, and sent out to
residents using Canada Post. The survey went out to all households with a postal address in Taber.
Of those who returned surveys, 96% indicated they were Town of Taber residents, 3% were from
the MD of Taber and 1% from the Village of Barnwell.
40% of the surveys returned indicated that they were family households, 31% were from senior
households, 24% were from adult only households and 5% were unknown.
2. Communication
The survey results showed that the method the residents most used to learn about recreation
facilities as well as the programs and services available in Taber at this time is word of mouth, by
a large margin. This was followed by The Town of Taber Website. The Leisure Guide came in
third, followed closely by monthly facility schedules. Cornhusk Chronicles ranked 5th, followed
by posters and lastly Facebook.
When asked what method the residents would prefer to use, The Town of Taber Website was
ranked as number one, followed very closely by word of mouth. Monthly facility schedules
ranked 3rd, Cornhusk chronicles 4th, Facebook 5th, Leisure guide 6th and lastly, posters.
3. Barriers to Participation
When asked if they felt that the members of their household were able to participate in
recreational activities as often as they would like, 68% said yes while 32% said no.
The highest barrier to participation indicated was due to the desired program not being offered
at a convenient time (17%). Other significant barriers included; residents unaware of recreational
opportunities (16%), the desired program not offered in Taber (15%), lack of time (14%) and not
affordable (12%).
57% of participants indicated that they leave Taber for recreational opportunities. 73% of those
that leave Taber do so because the facility, program or service is not available in Taber. (See
appendix C for full list of comments).
24
4. Satisfaction of Recreational Opportunities
When asked about the overall satisfaction with the range of recreational opportunities (facilities,
programs and services) in Taber, 29.5% of participants are very satisfied, 53% are somewhat
satisfied while only 8% are somewhat unsatisfied and 3% are very unsatisfied.
25
5. Types of Activities Residents Enjoy
Participation
Ball Hockey (3)
Rugby (5)
0.3%
0.5%
Skateboarding (8)
0.8%
Racquetball (9)
0.9%
Football (10)
1.0%
Figure Skating (12)
1.3%
Tennis (17)
1.8%
Mt. Biking (18)
1.9%
Volleyball (19)
2.0%
Slow Pitch (23)
Weight Training (30)
2.4%
3.0%
Running (33)
3.5%
Public Skating (34)
3.6%
Basketball (34)
3.6%
Baseball (34)
3.6%
Soccer (40)
4.7%
Hockey (47)
5%
General Play (52)
5.5%
Fitness Classes (57)
6%
Golf (65)
7%
Bike Riding (100)
Swimming (131)
Walking (161)
11%
14%
17%
The highest percentage of participation comes from activities that do not require specialized skills
or equipment, as well as being activities generally enjoyed by all ages and skill levels (walking, bike
riding, and swimming). Many of these activities are also unstructured and can be participated in
individually at times that are convenient for the participant.
26
6. Facility Enhancement and Development
Participants of the survey were asked to rank the facilities they would like to see upgraded or
enhanced from 1-5 (with 1 being the most important). Below is a summary of the top nine.
According to # of times chosen
Arena – Large Ice
Arena – Small Ice
Community Center Auditorium
Golf Course
Off Leash Dog Park
Pedestrian Trail
Playgrounds
Swimming Pool
Track & Field Oval
1st
28
23
24
2nd
20
17
15
3rd
11
11
17
4th
12
12
18
5th
6
7
4
6
14
56
5
16
1
5
8
31
19
14
3
8
5
24
12
18
2
2
12
8
9
13
7
7
6
9
9
16
9
Total
77
70
78
28
45
128
54
77
22
Looking at what participants chose as their first priority, pedestrian trails where very highly ranked
as well as in the total of participants choices (adding all choices from 1-5 together), while other
choices vary throughout the rankings and total.
When asked what new facility development would be supported by ranking choices 1-5 (with 1
being the most important) the following 7 potential projects were ranked the highest.
According to # of times chosen
Amphitheatre
Bike Paths
Climbing Wall
Fitness Centre
Indoor Field House
Indoor Walking Track
Mountain Bike Trails
1st
13
49
10
13
33
36
6
2nd
7
28
12
33
16
33
7
3r d
11
21
20
16
11
22
10
4th
14
13
18
14
6
13
7
5th
12
11
14
6
8
13
13
Total
57
122
74
82
74
117
43
This also showed a preference for recreation that is age and skill neutral with bike paths and indoor
walking track ranked as the top two. The ranking according to 1st choices compared to all choices
added together stays the same for bike paths (ranked highest) and indoor walking track (ranked 2nd),
but varies slightly for all other choices.
27
7. What now?
It was determined that while this survey gave us some very good information, such as priorities for
enhancement, it also uncovered more questions. What type of enhancement are residents wanting
when they reference the large ice arena or the swimming pool, for example? What is the vision and
scope of the new recreation facilities that were indicated as top priorities?
The information gathered from this survey was used to develop a second workshop as well as a second
household survey to clarify and help give more specific direction for the future of recreation in Taber.
28
WORKSHOP #2 (SEE APPENDIX B)
The second workshop was held June 23, 2015 with 15 members of the community in attendance
representing 10 different sport organizations. The attendance number was down from the previous
meeting by 13 participants.
The workshop was broken into 3 components to get a more detailed discussion. Listed below is a
summary of the meeting.
1.
2.
3.
Review of Workshop #1
Summary review of Household Survey #1 (see Appendix D)
Participant Input – in the first household survey participants indicated which facilities they
would like to see upgraded or built, but there were no opportunities to provide detailed
information as to specific enhancements respondents desired. Based on the responses from
the first survey, signs were placed on the wall that indicated the facilities of interest. Those
in attendance were provided with sticky notes on which they could write three specific items
they wanted to see addressed under each sign. These sticky notes were then placed under
the sign corresponding with the appropriate facility. The summary of those answers are
provided in Appendix B.
29
HOUSEHOLD SURVEY #2 (SEE APPENDIX E)
After analyzing the first household survey, it was determined that further detail was required as to
the specific improvements that participants referred to. The results of the first survey were then
discussed at the second workshop where more detailed suggestions were obtained. This provided a
better understanding of the “wants” of the community. From there, a second survey was developed
which allowed for residents to provide more detailed information regarding facility development and
enhancement. This survey was developed with the assistance of an employee with a Master’s Degree
in Statistics and an expertise in the area of surveying, hence the more expert manner of the second
survey results.
A total of 800 Town of Taber residents were selected to participate in household survey #2 using a
stratified random sampling technique. This technique was used in an attempt to obtain responses
from residents that accurately represented the age demographics of the Town of Taber. A random
sampling technique was used in order to 1) decrease the number of residents the survey needed to
be distributed to as well as 2) increase the likelihood of obtaining a sample that accuratel y
represented the Town of Taber. The primary benefit of reducing the number of survey instruments
distributed is the reduction in total expense. The use of random sampling aids in obtaining a
representative sample of the town while minimizing the number of residents that need to be
surveyed.
A 2015 census of Taber collected certain demographic information. The age demographic from this
census was used in order to stratify (categorize) the random sample in an attempt to balance the age
of those who responded to the survey instrument, as it was predicted that a higher number of older
residents would respond to the instrument compared to younger respondents. This prediction was
based on the response rate of household survey #1. The Town of Taber was broken into four major
strata (categories or sections) which included those areas of town which had a population that
consisted of mostly 1) young, 2) medium young, 3) medium old and 4) senior residents.
From these 800 surveys, 137 were returned representing a response rate of 17 percent. While this
response rate is less than desirable it should be considered that the entire town had already been
solicited to participate in a very similar survey only a few months prior. Selected participants may
have thought this survey was the same as household survey #1 or that they had already contributed
enough of their time to the master plan. As this response rate is low, it is important to take caution
when interpreting results as it may not adequately represent the residents within the town.
In order to increase the response rate, household survey #2 was mailed to selected residents a second
time. The advantage of sending the survey out multiple times to the same individuals is that it not
only increases response rate, but also increases the representativeness of the sample. This also
provided a second chance for those who may have initially passed up on the survey to realize this
was a distinct survey from household survey #1.
Respondents were categorized based on their family type. As shown in Table 1, seniors (43.1%) were
the largest group to respond to the survey. The senior category consisted of those who were 60 years
or older with no children or children who had graduated high school. Older families (22.3%) were
the next largest group to respond and consisted of those families who had most of their children in
middle school, high school, or higher. Medium aged families (7.7%) consisted of those families who
30
had most children that were elementary to high school age. Younger Families (8.5%) consisted of
mostly children who were not yet school age or in elementary school. Married adults (5.4%) were
those who were married, but had no children. The last category was single adults (13.1%) which
consisted of adults who were not married and did not have children.
TABLE 1: FREQUENCY OF FAMILY TYPE
Family Type
Frequency
Valid Percent
Senior
56
43.1
Older Family
29
22.3
Medium Aged Family
10
7.7
Younger Family
11
8.5
Married Adult
17
5.4
Single Adult
7
13.1
*Percent add up to 100.1 due to rounding to the nearest
tenth
FACILITY ENHANCEMENT:
Results from household survey #2 indicate that there is an overall attitude of support among Town
of Taber residents toward upgrading current facilities. The only facility that did not have a majority
of respondents who reported support for facility enhancement is the dog park (34.9%) (Table 2). The
dog park also had the highest level of unsupportive attitudes at 13.2 percent with the majority of
respondents reported neutral attitudes (51.9%) towards the enhancement of the dog park. The
facilities with the greatest disparities between supportive and unsupportive attitudes were the Pool
and the Walking Trails. The pool had 77.4 percent of respondents in favor of enhancement with only
3.0 percent of respondents reporting unsupportive attitudes. There were 80.5 percent of respondent s
who indicated support for upgrading the walking trails whereas less than one percent of respondent s
were unsupportive of this type of enhancement.
TABLE 2: LE VE L OF S U P P ORT FOR U P GRADING CU RRE NT FACILITIE S
Large Ice
Frequency
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
Ball Diamonds
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
Dog Park
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
Pool
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
Walking Trails
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
76
51
8
Valid
Percent
56.3
37.8
5.9
72
54
7
54.1
40.6
5.3
45
67
17
34.9
51.9
13.2
103
26
4
77.4
19.5
3.0
107
25
1
80.5
18.8
0.8
Small Ice
Frequency
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
Auditorium
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
Playgrounds
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
Track
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
70
57
6
Valid
Percent
56.3
37.8
5.9
96
36
3
71.1
26.7
2.2
98
31
3
74.2
23.5
2.3
68
58
7
51.1
43.6
5.3
31
More in depth analyses (Chi-square analysis) revealed that families of all ages (young, medium, and
old) were in greater favor of upgrading the small ice when compared to single adults, married adults,
and seniors (χ2 = 20.19, p = .03). For playgrounds it was found that married adults and all family ages
tended to support playground development to a greater extent than single adults and seniors (χ2 =
19.22, p = .04). In addition, analyses revealed that older families were most likely to be supportive of
walking trails when compared to all other family types (χ2 = 16.78, p = .08 which is approaching
significance). For all other facilities, there were no statistically significant differences found between
the levels of support which each family type indicated.
SPECIFIC ENHANCEMENT SUGGESTIONS:
In order to assist future recreation planners understand what is most important to town residents,
specific questions were asked about each facility. Respondents were allowed to select up to three
enhancement types. Graphs are provided that display the percent of votes which each enhancement
type received. In addition to enhancement types that were provided in the survey, the questions
allowed for open ended responses. The responses to the open ended portion of the questions are
provided below the corresponding graph. Responses are left in original format with only minor
spelling corrections made.
FIGURE 1
Large Ice
Total Votes - 253
23.7
25
20
Valid 15
Percent 10
14.2
14.2
13
11.5
10.7
5.9
5
4.3
2.3
0
Type of Improvement
Large Ice. Suggestions for enhancement of the large ice that came from the open ended responses
were as follows: “2nd large ice”, “build new double surface ice arena”, “walkways from the locker
rooms right to the players’ benches”, and “leave it alone reduce TAXES!!”.
32
FIGU RE 2
Small Ice
30
25
20
Valid
15
Percent
10
5
0
27.8
Total Votes 14.3
12.7
9.8
8.6
6.9
5.7
3.3
2.4
0.8
Type of Improvement
Small Ice. Additional suggestions included: “No upgrades until town is out of debt”, “Tear it down”,
“Year round ice”, “Leave it alone, reduce Taxes”, and “The small ice is a joke. It’s cold, no seating, the
layout is bad. It needs to be tore down and rebuilt!!!”.
FIGU RE 3
Ball Diamonds - Ken McDonald
Total Votes - 246
30
25
20
Valid
15
Percent
10
5
0
26
22
13.4
10.6
10.1
8.9
6.1
2.8
Type of Improvement
33
Ball Diamonds. Additional suggestions for enhancement include: “I think the diamonds at
Confederation Park need some improvement. Being on a mixed ball team, playing downtown is much
nicer than going down to Ken McDonald.”, “Pave the driveways”, “no upgrades!”, “Good for now”,
“Remove diamond on the 48th Ave. Parking/viewing is crowded. The diamond on the bend is
dangerous for children on a narrow grass strip.”, “leave it alone reduce TAXES!!”
FIGU RE 4
Community Center Auditorium
Total Voter - 276
25
20
Valid 15
Percent 10
5
0
22.8
22.5
14.9
9.8
7.2
11.2
4
3.2
2.5
1.8
Type of Improvement
Community Centre Auditorium. Additional suggestions include: “no upgrades!”, “In favor of
Theatre Etc. Complex Enlargement”, “Need wheelchair ramps by the stairs. Need to be by the stairs
not opposite wall”, “Leave it alone reduce TAXES!!”, “We like this for walking in the winter. Very
suitable now.”
34
FIGU RE 5
Dog Park
Total Voters - 217
40
35
30
25
Valid
20
Percent 15
10
5
0
37
14.7 12.9
11.1
7.4
4.6
3.7
2.8
2.3
2.3
0.9
Type of Improvement
Dog Park. Additional suggestions include: “no upgrades!”, “too far from town and the existing parks”,
“consider citizens 1st let dog owners be more responsible – no interest – this was a waste of money!”
FIGU RE 6
Playgrounds
Total Votes - 274
25
20
Valid 15
Percent 10
5
0
21.8
18.2
17.2
14.6
13.9
11.7
2.5
Type of Improvement
35
Playgrounds. Additional suggestions include: “BATHROOMS!”, “Outdoor fitness equipment for
adults (use for free!)”, “More seating”, “More leaf trees for protection from the sun especially around
the spray park.”, “leave it alone reduce Taxes!!”, “possibly more checking at night for those who abuse
the parks”, “Finish what was started & seems to have been abandoned.”
Respondents were asked which park they desired to see enhanced/improved (Table 3). The top
responses included Confederation park (11 votes), all parks (6 votes), Spray park (3 votes), and
Centennial (3 votes).
TABLE 3: PARKS RESIDENTS DESIRED TO BE UPGRADED
Park Name
Confederation
All Parks
Spray Park
Centennial
South side Spray Park
Skate Park
Lions Park
Train Park by Lutheran Church
Westview Park
Sunrise Crescent Playground in S.E. Taber
Public playground on south side
Park 75
Votes
11
6
3
3
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
FIGU RE 7
Swimming Pool
Total Votes - 284
20
15
Valid
10
Percent
5
18
14.1
13.7
15.5
10.2
7.7
4.6
2.5
0
Type of Improvement
36
Swimming Pool. Additional suggestions for Pool enhancement include: “provide
equipment to assist wheelchair-bound patrons accessibility to the dressing rooms,
bathrooms and the pool itself”, “additional change rooms (x2)”, “Maintain what is a
good facility”, “more family change stalls”, “I use the pool all the time and it is good
as is.”, “there should be special times for folks who wear cloths”, “seating”, “make
sure maintain operation of pool. Love to swim.”, “Turn into a big leisure pool like
Med. Hat has. Larger taller diving board.”, “reduce fees”, “leave it alone reduce
TAXES!!”
FIGU RE 8
Track and Field Oval
Total Votes - 227
35
30
25
Valid 20
Percent 15
10
5
0
30.8
21.6
18.5
12.8
10.6
4
1.8
Type of Improvement
Track and Field Oval. Additional suggestions for track and field oval enhancement include:
“Perhaps investigate the addition of outdoor fitness equipment to promote healthy living”, “no
upgrades!”, “not interested”, “leave it alone reduce TAXES!!”
FACILITY DEVELOPMENT:
According to respondents of household survey #2, bike paths was the most supported (69.2%)
category for new facility development followed by the development of an indoor walking track
(57.7%). The facility that was least supported by Town of Taber residents was the development of a
climbing wall with only 34.6 percent of respondents reporting supportive attitudes and 15.8 percent
of residents reporting unsupportive attitudes.
37
TABLE 4: FACILITY DEVELOPMENT
Facility Type
Amphitheatre
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
Climbing Wall
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
Indoor Fieldhouse
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
Mountain Bike Trails
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
Frequency
Valid
Percent
67
44
24
49.6
32.6
17.8
46
66
21
34.6
49.6
15.8
56
60
16
42.4
45.5
12.1
58
57
18
43.6
41.6
13.1
Facility Type
Bike Paths
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
Fitness Centre
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
Indoor Walking Track
Supportive
Neutral
Unsupportive
Frequency
Valid
Percent
92
36
5
69.2
27.1
3.8
68
48
17
51.1
36.1
12.8
79
40
11
57.7
29.2
8.0
Statistical analyses were performed to determine which family types were most supportive of certain
types of new facility development. It was found that there were no statistical differences between the
family type and which new facility development plans they supported or were unsupportive of. While
it may seem that seniors would be most supportive of an indoor walking track, this was not found to
be the case (χ2 = 8.71, p = .56). This means that all other family types (such as single adults, young
families, old families, etc.) were just as supportive of indoor walking tracks as seniors. This was the
case for all new facility development plans.
38
SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT QUESTIONS:
Survey participants were also asked questions regarding their perceptions regarding future facility
development. These questions were designed to better assess what features were most important to
residents in regards to specific facilities. The results of these questions are described and depicted
below.
FIGU RE 9
Amphitheatre
Total Votes - 207
35
30
25
Valid 20
Percent 15
10
5
0
32.4
22.7
12.1
11.1
8.7
7.2
5.8
Type of Improvement
Amphitheatre in Confederation Park. Additional suggestions for an amphitheater include: “More
shade for attendees?”, “The town should not consider any unnecessary spending until our debt is
paid and essential infrastructure is properly maintained and in good repair”, “We do not think an
amphitheater will be utilized as well as the other new recreation facilities proposed.”, “gets used once
a year. Do we really need a larger permanent one?”, “More picnic tables and more music concerts”,
“Use for watching movies in the summer like a drive in.”, Season is too short to justify this facility”,
“and there is already an unused outdoor stage at the MD Park. We do not need another unused stage
in confederation park.”, “Do not change”, “Stop finding stupid stuff to spend money on”, “Good as is”,
“Don’t need it.”
39
FIGU RE 10
Bike Paths
Total Votes - 223
35
30
25
Valid
Percent
20
15
29.1
29.1
20.2
20.2
13.9
13.5
10
5
0
Type of Improvement
Bike Paths. Additional suggestions for bike paths include: “Garbage cans, lighting, markers for
distance.”, “No upgrades!” Several areas of Taber have large boulevards (over 6 feet wide) and very
wide streets. Bike paths could use some of this wasted space.”, “Bike paths now are appropriate for
size of town’s population. Bike riders and walkers can share!”, “Trash cans. Bike symbol indicating
use painted on path.”, “This is a make work project for
The
company
should not be allowed to bid.”, “More distance”.
40
FIGU RE 11
Climbing Wall
Total Votes - 197
50
45
40
35
Valid 30
25
Percent 20
15
10
5
0
47.2
12.6
11.7
10.2
7.6
6.8
6.1
Type of Improvement
Climbing Wall. Additional suggestions for climbing wall include: “Perhaps could be coordinated
with the Swimming Facility for all year use. Has it been investigated a similar facility as Raymon d
Pool where a variety of centres/activity centres to encourage family day use and family outings…”,
“No spending!”, “Talk to the Lethbridge university about theirs”, “Put in the fieldhouse”, Family
friendly place where you can take small children for activities too.”, “no real idea, but it would be
good fun for younger folks”, “provide lessons”, “climbing wall also could use a roller skating facility.”,
“not needed at this time”, “Leave this to private business to implement.”, “A climbing area that
requires no equipment”, “Waste of money!”.
41
FIGU RE 12
Indoor Fieldhouse
Total Votes - 250
25
20
15
Valid
Percent 10
23.2
20.4
17.2
14.8
10.8
10
3.6
5
0
Types of Improvement
Indoor Fieldhouse. Other ideas respondents suggested for indoor Fieldhouse include: “Best idea”,
“None. We are too old.”, “multi-sport fields and courts too”, “Probably most expensive new rec facility,
but also would easily be most used new facility. I realize it’s a huge financial commitment so build it
in stages. Build it with multi-sport fields/courts and walking track with the ability to add fitness
centre, play structures and climbing wall.”, “Fitness Centre could be here to”, “Indoor soccer. Ball
hockey, lacrosse, any other indoor sport”, enough fitness centres in Taber”, “Waste of money!”, “I
think if you’re building something like this, build another rink attached to it!! We need more ice!!!”
42
FIGU RE 13
Mountain Bike Trails
Total Votes - 204
45
40.7
40
35
30
Valid 25
Percent 20
15
18.1
15.7
11.8
11.8
10
2
5
0
Create
Signs trails near Distance,
M.D. Park location,
trails
Parking Connected
area
to walking
trails
Other
No
Opinion
Type of Improvement
Mountain Bike Trails. Additional suggestions for mountain bike paths include: “Do not connect to
walking path”, “There are already existing trails through the garbage dump that just need
maintaining or just add to the existing. Could also include a jump park or a pump track”, “M.D. Park
area would be ideal”, “Waste of money!”
Fitness Centre. While no specific suggestions were provided to respondents for new fitness centre
development, there were 31 participants who provided their own suggestions. The following is a
summary of the main ideas. To see all suggestions see appendix E. One of the most cited concerns
from respondents was to let private businesses in town take care of fitness and that the town should
not compete with these businesses. Other suggestions included providing a facility that would offer
yoga, dance, and Zumba classes. It was also suggested to have a facility that could operate all through
the day to be able to serve various demographics. There were several comments desiring a senior
friendly fitness centers. Finally, it was suggested to have basketball, badminton, and volleyball courts
in a fitness centre.
Indoor Walking Track. As with the fitness centre, there were no specific suggestions provided for
respondents to vote on. However, there were 18 respondents who made suggestions for an indoor
walking track. A summary of the basic ideas is listed (see appendix E for all comments). Respondent s
suggested that an indoor walking track could go in a fieldhouse. Suggestion for location of the
walking track included outside the large ice with a rubber track, have covered side walk areas, the
auditorium, and the gymnastics building
43
RECREATION PRIORITIES:
In order to assess which recreation projects would be most salient to Town of Taber residents,
household survey # 2 included a question which asked respondents to select the five projects their
household felt should be made a priority (Figure 14).
The top five recreation projects according to the sample of Taber residents were:
1) upgrade/enhance the walking trails (10.8% of total votes),
2) construct an indoor walking track (10.2%),
3) upgrade/enhance the swimming pool (9.6%),
4) create a bike path system (9.1%), and
5) upgrade/enhance the community centre auditorium (9.1%).
FIGU RE 14
Recreation Priorities
Total Votes - 481
12
10
8
Valid
6
Percent
4
2
0
Facility Type
44
45
FUNDING:
The sample of Town of Taber residents were also asked what types of funding they would support to
allow for the enhancement of current facilities or for the creation of new facilities. Types of funding
were divided into four groups; increased property taxes, increased user fees, combination of
increased taxes and user fees, and additional funding. The results show that the majority of
respondents (41.2%) were in favor of increasing both property taxes and user fees in order to provide
funding for facility enhancement or development. With more in depth investigation, it was also
found that, in general, all family types favored funding consisting of a combination of property tax
increase and increase in user fees (χ2 = 12.41, p = .65). In other words single adults, married adults,
seniors, young, medium, and older families were all generally in favor of funding. The source of
funding that was most supported was a combination of property taxes and user fees (41.2%).
Following a combination of funding strategies, residents indicated that they were in favor of
increased user fees only (32.1%), followed by a an attitude that fees or taxes should not be increased
in order to fund these projects (22.1%), with the smallest level of support being for increasing
property taxes (4.6%).
FIGU RE 15
Source of Funding
4.6%
22.1%
32.1%
Property Taxes
User Fees
Combination
None
41.2%
CONCLUSION:
In general, the data from Household Survey #2 indicates that there is a high level of support among
Town of Taber residents for the enhancement and development of recreational facilities. Further, the
majority of residents (77.9%) would be willing to increase user fees, property taxes, or a combination
of both in order to provide necessary funding for enhancement and development. Town of Taber
residents appear to be most supportive of development/enhancement of walking trails both indoor
and out.
The Town of Taber wishes to thank everyone that was involved with providing feedback at
the workshops and on the surveys.
46
APPENDIX A – MINUTES OF WORKSHOP # 1
47
Minutes of Recreation Master Plan Workshop – January 28, 2015
Attendees
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Organization
Graham Abela
Greg Price
Pat Pyne
Dustin Putzer
Sherry Crombez
Jody Ginther
Tamara Miyanaga
Sharla Kane
Gail Merritt
Leanne Friesen
Suzanne Peters
Billie Jo Ferguson
Kayla Nelson
Heidi Hofer
Diane Sparks
Nancy Murphy
Bruce Warkentin
Kim Hutzel
Jessica Cline
Kevin Brandics
Wendy Millo
Tara Coney
Mandy Simmons
Garrett Simmons
Merrill Harris
TCAPS
Taber Times
Citizen at large
Taber Football
Taber Exhibtion
Taber Fading Sons
Track/Ace Place
Gymnastics (TGFC)
Merritt T.K.D.
Taber Mixed Slow Pitch
Taber Minor Ball
Run club/CPT
Figure Skating Club
Figure Skating Club
Taber Minor Hockey
Taber Minor Hockey
TCAPS
Taber Vipers Swim Club
Taber Exhibition
Taber Minor Hockey
Taber Soccer
Gymnastics (TGFC)
Track & Field
Taber Football Assocation
MD of Taber
Town Council
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Councillor Prokop
Recreation Board
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Luke Wyna
Danielle Hansen
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
January 28, 2015
Page 1
Facilitators
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Rob Cressman
Aline Holmen
Greg Birch
Scribe
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Lori Farough
First Topic: Strengths of existing facilities
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Facilities are well used
Cost to use facilities is reasonable
Availability of facilities is good
There are private rental opportunities
Indoor facilities are centrally located
Well maintained considering aging infrastructure
We have top-notch facilities for a community this size
Can host large events/tournaments
Football field is top notch in southern Alberta
Aesthetics very nice – trees & grass
Positive feedback re: facility and cleanliness from out of town users
Good past planning re: facility locations
Facilities attract non-residents to Taber (skate board park, spray park)
Arena /Community Centre are together is a great benefit for all aspects of an event i.e.
auditorium/arena/meeting rooms for tournaments
Visitors from cities comment positively about Taber’s facility
Staff is available to respond to skating club’s needs
Adequate parking
Adequate lighting
Seniors facility
MD support for new facility development i.e. KMMSC
Second Topic: Shortfalls of facilities in Taber
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•
Insufficient facilities to use/rent
Better marketing/promoting facilities & services
2nd full size ice surface is needed
New hockey/ice facility at another site recommended
It’s hard to accommodate large ice events with only one regulation size ice arena (TFSC)
Can’t accommodate hockey tournaments for all age groups
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
January 28, 2015
Page 2
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Glass – small ice
Seating – small ice – not enough
Old facility arenas
4th ball diamond at KMMSC – if you build it they will come
Agriplex too limited to host large events – stables
Taber needs an indoor field house
- dry sports facility
- indoor track
- indoor multi-use facilities i.e. Lethbridge, Red Deer
- indoor courts beyond those at schools
- indoor soccer facility
- large conference centre
- lacrosse facility
Speed Skating oval
Zumba, yoga, fitness facility
Caution to not compete with existing private sports facilities
Stop piece mealing separate facilities
Need a master plan to foster/accommodate more needs
Look at P-3 models
Pedal biking – mountain/bmx bike park
Disc golf facility – ideally at MD Park
Need shaded areas at KMMSC
Washroom/Concession at KMMSC ball diamond area
Quad ball diamonds needed at KMMSC would reduce the need/use on school diamonds
Taber Christian School ball diamond is inadequate
Signage along highways through Taber to promote feature recreation facilities
Beach volleyball court in community park is inadequately maintained
Don’t eliminate beach volley ball court in Taber
Bleachers at football field – not enough
Determine use/needs for community centre auditorium
Update soccer fields drainage – oval – St. Pat’s Soccer-Agriplex
Update arena sound system
Third Topic: Strengths of Existing Programs
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Good Seniors programs/services
Volunteers are great!!
Southern Alberta Summer Games
Broad range of services; all ages
Responsive and friendly staff
Good Communication to the user-groups
Where volunteers are unavailable the Town has filled the gap
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
January 28, 2015
Page 3
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Community Registration coordination – saves money for each group – saves time for those
registering in multiple programs
Programs available at reasonable cost
User group fees cost less due to Town costs
Free programs – sponsored i.e. Free skating
Cornfest is free to attend
Canada Day is a free event
Good marketing/promotion
Town’s awareness to support financially important community event i.e. Tsunami Relief –
Food Bank events or operation
Fourth Topic: Shortfalls in Programs/Services
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No monitoring of non-paying users for fields
Recreational hockey programs that have less commitment/cost
Training for volunteers involved in operating sports groups
Boards/executives – lack of people/training
Lack of Coaches
Lack of Officials
Volunteer burnout
Better publicized recreation facilities on web/internet
Need more updates to website
Access to swim lessons; demand exceeds supply
Online Swim lesson registration system
Community online recreation program registration ran and maintained by the Town of
Taber
Some debate about online registration program
Direct link to sports association online registration
Expedite more walking path construction
Pedestrian trail to MD Park
Follow-up and progress on Vision/Master Plan to community/residents
Need a regional plan
Some segment/part of ratepayers are not supportive of tax increases to support new/more
recreation facilities
Lack of ice practices/games
We have been reactive in nature rather than proactive since the last recreation master
plan in 1985
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
January 28, 2015
Page 4
Individual Task Assigned: Each person to pick their top 3 items they would like see
enhanced/built.
Results:
Multi-use facility
2nd Ice Surface/More ice
Walking Trail
KMMSC 4th Ball Diamond
Auditorium Upgrade
Agriplex Warm Up Arena
Repair Existing Facilities
Dog Park Lights
Indoor Walking Track
21
12
10
9
7
4
3
2
2
An opportunity was provided for the individual groups in attendance to share
upcoming plans:
1. Dry Sports Facility
G. Abela presented on behalf of the planned dry sports complex
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Indoor soccer
Children/adults
A multi-use facility
Minimal operating costs
Accommodate regional needs
Walking track
Large conference centre – weddings, concerts etc.
Rugby, football, etc.
Sprung design
Investor willing to fund construction up front w/ repayment by the Town over a number of
years
2 full-time staff required to operate
Potential partner w/ performing arts centre
Agriplex
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To host larger rodeos, roping events, etc.
Considering a secondary/separate building on their site
Could meet Emergency Operation Centre needs
Group training class within a multi-sport facility
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
January 28, 2015
Page 5
Gymnastics/Fitness Club
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New facility scheduled to open February 23, 2015
In-ground trampoline, etc.
Open gym time
5400 square feet
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
January 28, 2015
Page 6
APPENDIX B: MINUTES OF WORKSHOP # 2
48
Minutes of Recreation Master Plan Workshop – June 23, 2015
Attendees
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Organization
Graham Abela
Pat Pyne
Angel Svennes
Jody Ginther
Sharla Kane
Leanne Friesen
Suzanne Peters
Kayla Nelson
Heidi Hofer
Nancy Murphy
TCAPS & TADSA
WHAM! Volleyball
Taber Off-leash dog park
Taber Fading Sons
Gymnastics (TGFC)
Taber Mixed Slow Pitch/Minor Ball
Taber Minor Ball/Taber Golden Suns/Mixed
Figure Skating Club
Figure Skating Club
Taber Minor Hockey/Soccer
Town Council
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Mayor Henk de Vlieger
Councillor Prokop
Councillor Popadynetz
Recreation Board
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Luke Wyna
Danielle Hansen
Facilitators
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Greg Birch
Aline Holmen
Marnie Mouland
Trent Smith
Scribe
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Lori Farough
Introductions and Objectives:
G. Birch opened the workshop at 6:30 PM and introduced the Town of Taber team of
facilitators. The Councillors and Recreation Board members in attendance were introduced.
He described each facilitator’s role with the Town of Taber and then explained their role for
the evening’s workshop.
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
June 23, 2015
Page 1
Mr. Birch also described the agenda for the evening ahead:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Review of workshop #1
Survey results
Participant input
Participant selections
Mr. Birch explained that because there is no Recreation Master Plan in place, there is no
planning or process for building new recreation facilities. Items come before Council in a
random way and recreation services has no plan because there is no Recreation Master Plan.
The new Recreation Master Plan is being created in-house so implementation may be slower
than expected.
Review of Process:
Step #1: We got you to tell us what you thought was needed.
Step #2: We undertook a survey of the community (casual people with interest who are paying
for recreation with taxes). Surveys were available at the pool, the administration office and
the Town of Taber website.
Step #3: We return to the stakeholder group and we investigate how do we move forward?
Administration and the Recreation Board will work toward putting the info gathered into a
document. This is the last public consultation before writing the Recreation Master Plan. The
Rec Master Plan will be approved by Council before it is made public.
Review of Recreation Master Plan Workshop #1
A. Holmen opened up this part of the workshop by expressing the need to fill a vacancy on
the Recreation Board and explained where applications can be obtained. She indicated there
were a lot more attendees at the Recreation Master Plan Workshop #1 and expressed her
thanks for their attendance to the group of people assembled.
Recreation Master Plan Workshop #1 was discussed.
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Strengths and weaknesses of existing facilities and feedback was received.
Strengths and weaknesses of existing programs/services were reviewed in depth.
Some of the weaknesses mentioned caused immediate changes; others fit the long
term plan.
Creation of a wish list of areas that the group felt should be built or updated.
During Workshop #1 there were updates from the Dry Sports Facility group, the Agriplex and
the Taber Gymnastics Fitness Club.
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
June 23, 2015
Page 2
Survey Results Review
A. Holmen and M. Mouland then presented the results from the first household survey:
Which facilities would you like to see upgraded or enhanced (please rank your top 5
with 1 being the most important):
The results are rated in order of preference below:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Pedestrian Trail
Community Centre Auditorium
Swimming Pool and Large Ice Arena (tied)
Small Ice Arena
Playgrounds
Off-Leash Dog Park
Golf Course
Track & Field Oval
What new facility development would you support (please rank your top 5 with 1
being the most important):
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Bike Paths
Indoor Walking Track
Fitness Centre
Climbing Wall and Indoor Field House (tied)
Amphitheatre
Mountain Bike Trails
A. Holmen further described the household survey indicating it asked where you live, ages of
people in the household, and how people learn about Town of Taber Recreation Programs;
she then spoke about researching Recreation Master Plans from other communities.
A. Holmen then discussed the satisfaction level of participants in the section “Taber
Recreational Opportunities” and then reviewed the list of activities and the level of
participation. Walking, Swimming and Bike Riding were the highest ranked activities.
M. Mouland mentioned that you have no way of knowing how many people would use a
climbing wall if it was located in Taber. People who may not typically travel to use a climbing
wall might use one if it was located in Taber.
The question of how the activities were chosen came up and A. Holmen described that the
Recreation Master Plan Committee attempted to think of absolutely everything that’s out there
for people to do in recreation.
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
June 23, 2015
Page 3
M. Mouland spoke to the fact that people are quite satisfied with what exists now and many
people commented on the need to finish what we already have in existence (i.e. pedestrian
trail). Upgrading existing facilities ranked highest in the question regarding where the Town
of Taber should place the most emphasis.
Discussion occurred related to the statement of ensuring that community needs for recreation
are met and how to financially achieve these recreation needs.
It was noted that BMX trails did not make the top 5 list.
G. Birch stated that what was not captured in the survey was “what exactly did people mean
when they suggested upgrades?”. That question is yet to be asked and will be in the second
survey to be distributed.
Participant Input re: Upgrades, Enhancements and New Facilities (sticky notes)
Small sticky notes and 3 black dots were handed out to each attendee. Participants were
asked to add one comment on each sticky note and include any amount of sticky notes related
to particular interests. Then lastly they were requested to place the 3 black dots on the
individual sticky notes that were indicative of where money should be spent to achieve a
concept of enhancements by priority.
The following results were gathered:
Fitness Centre
• Put in indoor complex
• training facility for martial arts with equipment for combat (competition)
Amphitheatre
• outdoor area large enough to host plays, bands with power/dressing rooms
• Ontario place amphitheatre is what it would look like
• build sound engineer booth on the side
• paint
• Expand size of stage
KMMSC 4th ball
• finish 4th diamond (x3)
• need concession to include food, drink, alcohol sales (x2)
• washroom facilities " not outhouses"
• finish developing by diamonds "trees, pathway"
• concession/washroom by diamonds (x2)
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
June 23, 2015
Page 4
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lighted Diamond
wheel chair accessibility (x3)
trees and shade
Swimming Pool
• upper viewing area
• put in sixth lane (x2)
• little kids' slide (x2)
• seating for observation of lap pool
• upgrade to online registration
• make viewing area larger
Walking Trails
• water fountain
• lighting (x3)
• weed the bench areas
• poop bags and more garbage bins
• interconnection with other park facilities
• finish it (x2)
• exercise stations at various points (x2)
• finish trail out of town (x2)
• extend it (x4)
• add washrooms
• make a bike path
• maps "you are here"
Track & Field Oval
• spectator seating
• enclosed washrooms “not outhouses" ( x2)
• shade areas
Dog Park
• water supply x3 (for drinking and irrigation)
• washrooms
• agility track improvements
• clean up the gopher holes
• identifier sign
• lights (x2)
• shaded area to sit (x2)
• trees (x3)
• Shelters
• double gated entry
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
June 23, 2015
Page 5
Golf Course
• new furnishings "lounge tables/chairs"
• improve driving range (x2)
Small Arena
• better seating (x8)
• make bigger/full size arena (x3)
• heat for stands (x2)
• time clock at ice level
• some sort of sound system (x2)
• cooling system upgrade so we can have ice longer into spring
• paint interior
• improve the feel of the ice surface
• boards and spectator area upgrades
• get rid of it
Large Ice
• new sound system (x8)
• more stand heaters (x2)
• more dressing rooms (x2)
• upgrade seating for room/comfort (x4)
• upgrade/add bathrooms
• 2nd large ice surface (x3)
• retractable netting for viewing
• add ref dressing room
• add girls change room
• new score clock
• protective white netting (change from black)
Mountain Bike Trails
• set trails by md
• signs with "you are here"
• loading and unloading area
• rental of mountain bikes
• create bridges/hills like Pincher Creek
Bike Path
• not roadway or sidewalks as part of path
• bike racks
• bike rentals
• create a place for just bikes, rollerblades and scooters
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
June 23, 2015
Page 6
Climbing Walls
• equipment rentals
• incorporate in auditorium or pool
• like University of Lethbridge (x2)
Agriplex
• make safe warm-up facility for riders
• information access "for all rec groups"
Indoor Field House
• walking track (x3)
• soccer (x2)
• baseball/softball friendly (x2)
• lacrosse (x2)
• volleyball courts (x2)
• concert venue
• senior friendly
• rugby
• multiuse (x3)
• Indoor play structure, fitness centre, indoor track, field for indoor sport all in one
• flag ship for community
• indoor tennis and badminton
• ball hockey
• rollerblade
Indoor Walking Track
• hours/availability
• (walking track, fieldhouse, fitness centre) could be combined (x2)
• surface friendly
Playgrounds
• more activities/upgrades
• safe to use
• more equipment at Centennial Park (x3)
• make Centennial Park a central playground as now there is a lot of traffic of people there more
regularly
• add bathrooms
• add picnic tables
• add more trees for shade for picnics
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
June 23, 2015
Page 7
Auditorium
• drop ceiling
• create second level at the back
• remove lines on floor it looks cluttered
• upgrade audio (x4)
• improve parking (paint lines)
• fix the bathrooms
• access to the other set of washroom when events are larger (x2)
• modernization (x4)
• improve aesthetics
• upgrade walls (x2)
• washrooms air driers and paper towel (x2)
• carpets updated
• better flooring
• paint job
• What will community centre's primary function be? When that is answered, can decide on
upgrades.
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
June 23, 2015
Page 8
APPENDIX C: RESULTS OF HOUSEHOLD SURVEY # 1
49
Town of Taber Recreation Master Plan Household Survey
1. Are you a resident of (please pick one):
Number of participants: 223
214 (96.0%): Town of Taber
7 (3.1%): MD of Taber
- (0.0%): Town of Vauxhall
2 (0.9%): Village of Barnwell
- (0.0%): Other
Number of par ticipants: 224
2. Please indicate how many members of your household, including yourself, fit the following
age categories:
1
2
3
4
5
Number of
Respondents
0-2 years
78% (15)
21% (4)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
19
3-5 years
80% (21)
15% (4)
0% (0)
0% (0)
3% (1)
26
6-12 years
56% (34)
35% (21)
8% (5)
0% (0)
0% (0)
60
13-17 years
74% (29)
17% (7)
7% (3)
0% (0)
0% (0)
39
18-29 years
62% (28)
37% (17)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
45
30-44 years
44% (33)
54% (41)
1% (1)
0% (0)
0% (0)
75
45-59 years
51% (45)
48% (42)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
87
60 + years
45% (36)
55% (44)
0% (0)
0% (0)
0% (0)
80
Number of Respondents
Number of par ticipants: 224
431
3. Through what methods have you learned about recreation facilities, programs and services in
Taber (check all that apply)?
Number of par ticipants: 212
Have Used Prefer to Use
∑
%
∑
%
Town Website
91x 42.92 53x
25.00
Facebook
46x 21.70 37x
17.45
Posters
72x 33.96 23x
10.85
Leisure Guide
82x 38.68 34x
16.04
Cornhusk Chronicles
76x 35.85 40x
18.87
Monthly Facility Schedules
80x 37.74 44x
20.75
Word of Mouth
146x 68.87 50x
23.58
4. The Town of Taber provides a variety of facilities and spaces used by residents, community
groups and organizations for programs, social and sporting events, meetings and leisure
activities. Please indicate how often you or your family have used each of the following in the
last 12 months.
Number of par ticipants: 234
1-10 times per year 11-20 times per year 21 + times per year Did not use
∑
%
∑
%
64x
27.35
28x
11.97
66x
28.21
70x 29.91
Archers & Bow hunters - Indoor Range
5x
2.14
1x
0.43
1x
0.43
205x 87.61
Arena - Large Ice
47x
20.09
14x
5.98
36x
15.38
128x 54.70
Arena - Small Ice
45x
19.23
7x
2.99
18x
7.69
147x 62.82
Arts & Crafts Building
21x
8.97
-
-
2x
0.85
192x 82.05
Beach Volleyball Court (56Ave & 43 St)
12x
5.13
2x
0.85
-
-
201x 85.90
Community Centre - Auditorium
143x
61.11
11x
4.70
6x
2.56
64x 27.35
Community Centre - Meeting Rooms
71x
30.34
5x
2.14
1x
0.43
139x 59.40
Curling Rink
25x
10.68
9x
3.85
11x
4.70
168x 71.79
Football field (Ken McDonald Sport complex)
20x
8.55
12x
5.13
7x
2.99
180x 76.92
Golf Course
48x
20.51
11x
4.70
33x
14.10
131x 55.98
Legion Park Campground
61x
26.07
1x
0.43
1x
0.43
154x 65.81
Legion Youth Centre
31x
13.25
-
-
1x
0.43
182x 77.78
Mini Soccer Pitches (St. Pat`s School Area)
13x
5.56
15x
6.41
16x
6.84
171x 73.08
Motocross Track
4x
1.71
3x
1.28
2x
0.85
207x 88.46
Off Leash Dog Park
28x
11.97
7x
2.99
15x
6.41
167x 71.37
Outdoor Basketball Courts (Park 75, Majestic)
19x
8.12
3x
1.28
3x
1.28
189x 80.77
Parks & Playgrounds
85x
36.32
37x
15.81
54x
23.08
47x 20.09
Parkside Manor Senior Centre
38x
16.24
2x
0.85
5x
2.14
172x 73.50
Pedestrian Trails
50x
21.37
41x
17.52
86x
36.75
47x 20.09
Rugby Field (Ken McDonald Memorial Sport Complex)
14x
5.98
3x
1.28
2x
0.85
193x 82.48
Skateboard Park
32x
13.68
10x
4.27
11x
4.70
166x 70.94
Spray Park
65x
27.78
31x
13.25
10x
4.27
115x 49.15
Soccer Pitch - Ken McDonald Memorial Sport Complex
12x
5.13
7x
2.99
12x
5.13
183x 78.21
Soccer pitch - St Mary`s School
11x
4.70
5x
2.14
5x
2.14
192x 82.05
Tennis Courts
28x
11.97
-
-
1x
0.43
184x 78.63
Track and Field Oval
36x
15.38
18x
7.69
15x
6.41
144x 61.54
Aquafun Centre
∑
%
∑
%
5. Please list any other facility or space you or your family used that is not listed in the
above question.
Number of par ticipants: 25
Other (please specify)
-
gymnastics Centre (11-20), Cardio kicks (21+), Taekwondo (21+)
MD Campground
baseball Diamonds
Badminton - D.A.
Ken McDonald Ball diamonds, Confederation Ball diamonds
baseball diamonds - Ken McDonald and Confed.
Park Gazebo
Taber Night Hawks Flying Club
Ball diamonds
Church - Yoga, Library - Games night & Photo club
Baseball Fields
RC Flying field
Rodeo
Softball - KMMSC & Admin Bldg.
Baseball Diamonds
Agriplex
Ken McDonald- Baseball
BASEBALL PARK
Old Trout Pond
KMMSC - baseball
Geocaching/Camping MD
Ball diamonds
Agriplex
Slow-pitch Diamonds - Confed & KMMSC
Bowling Alley
-
11-20 times/year
11-20 times / year
1-10 times per year for both
21+ times/year
1-10
21+ times? Year
21+
11-20
21+
21+ per year
1-10
1-10 each
11-20
Did not use
1-10 times/year
11-20
21+
1-10
21+
1-10
21+
21+
21+
Number of times
6. Overall, do you feel that members of your household are able to participate in recreational
activities using facilities in Taber as often as you would like?
Number of participants: 224
152 (67.9%): yes
72 (32.1%): no
7. If no, what prevents someone in your household from participating in recreational
opportunities utilizing Taber facilities? (Choose all that apply)
Number of participants: 89
27 (30.3%): Lack of time
31 (34.8%): Unaware of
opportunities
23 (25.8%): Not affordable
2 (2.2%): No transportation
28 (31.5%): Desired
program not offered
32 (36.0%): Program not at
convenient time
13 (14.6%): No
interest/motivation
15 (16.9%): Health limitations
19 (21.3%): Other
Answer(s) from “other”:
-
Racquetball
Lack of child care @ facility
Kids don't live here
Swimming lessons not available (line-ups too long for registration)
As seniors we would swim more often but feel we can't afford it
swimming lessons (whale) not offered last two registrations or it scheduled during school
limited availability
No winter sport other than hockey - curling in Taber
No facility
would love to be a part of Taber arts and Crafts but don't know how to do so.
More senior fitness classes
difficulty in registering for swim lessons
Access and Parking, However its looks like we are trying to fix that problem
N/A
Can't take kids swimming Saturday evening. It is closed!!
no proper advertising
not enough options for swimming lessons available swim lessons are not working parent friendly
Swim times are limited
We are Disabled x2
8. Do you or members of your household leave Taber for recreation opportunities?
Number of participants: 228
129 (56.6%): yes
99 (43.4%): no
9. If yes, what activities do these include?
Number of participants: 126
- Skiing, hiking, Bicycle Riding
- To take swimming courses not offered in Taber.
- Lethbridge indoor soccer
- Ball hockey, indoor soccer
- Golf
- play golf, watch hockey (grandkids)
- camping
- Travel: Coach, Air, Cruise
- Higher level swimming courses. Climbing. Hiking. Camping. Canoeing. Fitness classes
- We golf at other locations for variety
- golfing, walking paths, mini golf, Frisbee golf
- Golf
Swimming (hot springs)
- pools, lakes, spray parks
- tournaments
- Mini-soccer (indoor)
- golf
- Golf
- Golf
- Theatre
Hiking (Mountains)
- Equestrian - Dressage
- swimming lessons
- Wall climbing, Family day activities @ UofL, Museum, Zoo, indoor playground
- Golf
- camping
- baseball
- Swimming and considering Brooks or Lethbridge for lessons
- Camping
- watching sports, hiking
- camping
- Walking Helen Schuler - Kids to soccer indoor
- Soccer (Adult)
- baseball
- school sports events
- volleyball, hiking, camping, boating, movies, live theatre
- plays, concerts, cattle shows
- swimming
- Hockey and summer skating
- hiking and walking
- volleyball, outdoor pool, hockey programs
- ski
- Walking paths i.e. Henderson Lake
- golf
- Spray park/skating
- parks, Lacrosse, swim lessons
- billiards, games night, camping, horseshoes
- indoor soccer, Raymond pool
- baseball-Vauxhall, Brooks-hockey
- walking, biking, climbing wall, cooking classes
- Soccer - Winter
- spray parks, outdoor pools, indoor play structures
- Skiing - Soccer
- camping, quading, larger spray park in Nobleford and nicer playground in Barnwell
- Hiking skiing Soccer (indoor)
- hiking
- Indoor Soccer
- Wall climbing, mini golf
- softball
- swimming, bowling, movies
- Swimming, boating, trails
- geocaching, bike trails in Med Hat, Performing Arts shows, Town tours
- dance
- Indoor Golf, Hockey during April-Aug
- We attend the CASA program (Arts) in Lethbridge
- parks
- golf
- Hockey Camps, Spring Basketball
- camping, shopping
- Indoor basketball - university of Lethbridge courts
- small ball in Barnwell, camping, hiking, horseback riding
- Mountain Parks, Lake parks, river parks
- Walking/hiking/running on indoor track
- But seriously considering dance classes in the city.
- swimming, camping, parks
- fishing & hunting
- basketball, golf, hockey
- REC Hockey league Coaldale
- Outdoor swimming
- baseball teams, swim @ larger centers
- martial arts training, golf, swimming, lakes
- Camping in the mountains, Calgary Zoo, Calaway Park, Royal Tyrell Museum.
- Waterskiing, fishing & Lake Lounging @ Chin Reservoir
- Dance, swimming if we can't get in in Taber
- Swimming, Hockey, Motor biking
- camping
- camping, fishing
- Nature like Waterton PARK
- golfing
- Just To Watch Grandchildren Compete
- indoor club volleyball, swimming
- Camping
- holidays, movies
- camping, outdoor activities, quading, skiing
- swim meets, spray parks
- mini golf, horse Racing, Stock-car racing, movies, go carts, bowling
- Camping, fishing
- indoor soccer
- Hiking
- Golf
- Lethbridge Senior Bowling (Bowl in Taber twice a week, also)
- CURLING BONSPIELS, HOCKEY TOURNAMENTS, SLOWPITCH
- Frisbee golf, Kayaking, fishing,
- Medicine Hat Leisure Centre, movies
- Trail running
- to go swimming in Med Hat b/c Taber rules are ridiculous
- Camping, Boating
- Outdoor pool, more Ice times,
- For hockey & outdoor pool/waterslides, skate parks, public skating
- hockey, horse activities, hiking
- CAMPING, TRAILS, MUSEUMS, BASICALLY HIKING TRAILS
- Indoors sports - vball during winter months, skiing quading, camping, shopping
- Mini Golf, Movies
- Swimming lessons, Summer Skating
- Indoor soccer/Judo/Swimming
- Golf, Baseball
- Mountain biking, Skiing
- Hockey and movies live entertainment
- Horseback Riding/Soccer/Paintball
- Skiing, Hiking, biking, coulees
- Indoor Soccer Facility in Lethbridge
- Hiking (Waterton), Theatre (Med Hat, Rosebud), Symphony (Lethbridge), Art Galleries (Various Locations)
- Outdoor pool Raymond, indoor soccer
- Indoor soccer
- Outdoor swimming
- Hockey - No female team
- Camping
- Rodeo, Kayaking, canoeing, hiking, camping
10. If yes, why do you or members of your household participate in recreational activities outside of Taber?
Number of participants: 123
C los er to w ork /s c hool
3 (2.4%): Closer to
work/school
13 (10.6%): Closer to other
C los er to other ac tiv ities/s hopping
F ac ility , program or s erv ic e not av ailable in T aber
activities/shopping
M ore affordable
Other
0
20
40
90 (73.2%): Facility, program or service not available in Taber
16 (13.0%): More affordable
48 (39.0%): Other
Answer(s) from “other”:
-
Holidays
grandkids play hockey out of town
change od scenery
golfing in Taber is more expensive than a lot of outlying areas
Holiday
Higher Quality Facilities
More variety/change
swimming lesson times are very limited and not flexible at all for parents who work
simply to get out of town
work in Lethbridge, large baseball league there
not enough swim lessons available
We go to full service campgrounds
Kids in Lethbridge
would very much like arts facility up & running or theatre
visiting area
change of scenery
variety
ICE Time to Expensive!!!!!!
closer to social group
We love Taber pool but the Raymond pool is so fun in
the summer.
- Available teams-their locations
- nicer paths - more scenery
- friends play in Lethbridge
- Medicine Hat , Lethbridge, Missoula have great bike trail systems
- better quality instruction/more competitive
- No ice in Taber
- variety
- No indoor running track/more walking trails in parks & wooded areas
- Very Well organized, semi competitive, better and less ice time vs TABER MINOR HOCKEY
- We like being outside in the summer.
- variety
- variety
- As Above
- no club team in Taber, lack of coaching
- Mountains
- Same as above except bowling. Taber is always closed.
- Park facilities very dirty, and not accessible on Sunday due to large gatherings
- No indoor complex available
- Other golf courses offer senior discounts or affordable deals included in your green fees
- Not enough senior to make another league
- WE CURL& PLAY HOCKEY AND BALL ON TABER TEAMS THAT PARTICIPATE IN OUT OF TOWN EVENTS
- Better facilities
- No outdoor pool in Taber, public skating outside of Taber. Ice time is not available.
- out of town hockey games, no horse clubs or activities available or offered, no activities available
- more options available or better times
- Prenatal Yoga
- No outdoor pool or indoor soccer here
- Indoor soccer
60
80
100
11. Overall, how satisfied are you with the range of recreational opportunities (facilities, programs &
services) in Taber?
Number of participants: 227
67 (29.5%): Very Satisfied
121 (53.3%): Somewhat
Satisfied
18 (7.9%): Somewhat
Unsatisfied
6 (2.6%): Very Unsatisfied
15 (6.6%): Other
Answer(s) from “other”:
- never know what is going on
- never used them
- the last round of swimming lessons only offered one possibility for my daughter. ONE!!!
- we never use them
- need good quading trails
- MORE BIG ICE!
- There has to be a better way to manage swimming lesson sign up, or offer more classes.
- lack of performing arts facility
- can not used due to health
- Need Indoor Soccer
- Doesn't really bother me
- INCAPABLE
- My humble opinion is Taber and it's merchants do not seem to know how to attract people to want to come to use what they have to
offer! A lot like town council - higher taxes are not going to attract anyone!!
- would love an indoor walking track! or more hours available at civic centre.
- Would be nice to have a lacrosse program
12.
What Types of activities do you and members of your household most enjoy (select 5):
Participation
Ball Hockey (3)
Rugby (5)
0.3%
Series 1
0.5%
Skateboarding (8)
0.8%
Racquetball (9)
0.9%
Football (10)
1.0%
Figure Skating (12)
1.3%
Tennis (17)
1.8%
Mt. Biking (18)
1.9%
Volleyball (19)
2.0%
Slow Pitch (23)
Weight Training (30)
2.4%
3.0%
Running (33)
3.5%
Public Skating (34)
3.6%
Basketball (34)
3.6%
Baseball (34)
3.6%
Soccer (40)
4.7%
Hockey (47)
5%
General Play (52)
5.5%
Fitness Classes (57)
6%
Golf (65)
Bike Riding (100)
Swimming (131)
Walking (161)
230 participants
7%
11%
14%
17%
13. Which facilities would you like to see upgraded or enhanced (please rank your top 5
with 1 being the most important): 1st Choice
Number of participants: 190
28 (14.7%): Arena - Large Ice
23 (12.1%): Arena - small Ice
3 (1.6%): Baseball Diamonds
- Confederation Park
T rac k and F ield Ov al: 0.53%
Sw im m ing Pool: 8.42%
Arena - Large Ic e: 14.74%
3 (1.6%): Baseball Diamonds
- Ken McDonald memorial
Sport Complex
S/F /R F ields - Ken M cD onald: 3.16%
Spray park : 0.53%
Play grounds (s pec ify): 2.63%
24 (12.6%): Community
Arena - s m all Ic e: 12.11%
Centre - Auditorium
Bas eball D iam onds - C onfederation Park:
4 (2.1%): Curling Rink
Pedes trian trails : 29.47%
6 (3.2%): Golf Course
14 (7.4%): Off Leash Dog
Park
56 (29.5%): Pedestrian trails
5 (2.6%): Playgrounds
(specify)
1 (0.5%): Spray park
6 (3.2%):
Soccer/Football/Rugby
Fields - Ken McDonald
Memorial Sports Complex
16 (8.4%): Swimming Pool
1 (0.5%): Track and Field
Oval
Bas eball D iam onds - Ken M cDonald m em ori
C om m unity C entre - Auditorium : 12.63%
Off Leas h D og Park: 7.37%
C urling R ink : 2.11%
Golf C ours e: 3.16%
2nd choice
Number of participants: 166
20 (12.0%): Arena - Large Ice
17 (10.2%): Arena - Small Ice
4 (2.4%): Baseball Diamonds
- Confederation Park
6 (3.6%): Baseball Diamonds
- Ken McDonald Memorial
Sports Complex
15 (9.0%): Community
Centre - Auditorium
7 (4.2%): Community Centre
- Meeting Rooms
6 (3.6%): Curling Rink
5 (3.0%): Golf Course
8 (4.8%): Off Leash Dog Park
31 (18.7%): Pedestrian Trails
19 (11.4%): Playgrounds
(specify)
6 (3.6%): Spray Park
5 (3.0%): Soccer/Football/
rugby Fields - Ken McDonald
Memorial Sport Complex
14 (8.4%): Swimming Pool
3 (1.8%): Track and Field
3rd Choice
Number of participants: 141
11 (7.8%): Arena - Large Ice
11 (7.8%): Arena - Small Ice
8 (5.7%): Baseball Diamonds
- Confederation Park
T rac k and F ield: 1.42%
T ennis C ourts : 1.42%
Sw im m ing Pool: 12.77%
Arena - Large Ic e: 7.80%
2 (1.4%): Baseball Diamonds
- Ken McDonald Memorial
S/F /R F ields - Ken McD onald: 3.55%
Arena - Sm all Ic e: 7.80%
Sports Complex
17 (12.1%): Community
Centre - Auditorium
4 (2.8%): Community Centre
Bas eball D iam onds – C onfed. Park:5.6%
Spray Park : 2.13%
Sk ateboard Park : 0.71%
Play grounds (s pec ify): 8.51%
C om m unity C entre - Auditorium : 12.06%
- Meeting Rooms
8 (5.7%): Curling Rink
8 (5.7%): Golf Course
5 (3.5%): Off Leash Dog Park
24 (17.0%): Pedestrian Trails
12 (8.5%): Playgrounds
(specify)
1 (0.7%): Skateboard Park
3 (2.1%): Spray Park
5 (3.5%): Soccer/Football/
rugby Fields - Ken McDonald
Memorial Sport Complex
18 (12.8%): Swimming Pool
2 (1.4%): Tennis Courts
2 (1.4%): Track and Field
Bas eball D iam onds - Ken M cDonald: 1.4%
C om m unity C entre - M eeting R ooms : 2.84%
Pedes trian T rails : 17.02%
Off Leas h D og Park: 3.55%
C urling R ink : 5.67%
Golf C ours e: 5.67%
4th Choice
Number of participants: 119
12 (10.1%): Arena - Large Ice
12 (10.1%): Arena - Small Ice
4 (3.4%): Baseball Diamonds
- Confederation Park
4 (3.4%): Baseball Diamonds
- Ken McDonald Memorial
Sports Complex
18 (15.1%): Community
Centre - Auditorium
2 (1.7%): Community Centre
- Meeting Rooms
2 (1.7%): Curling Rink
2 (1.7%): Golf Course
12 (10.1%): Off Leash Dog
Park
8 (6.7%): Pedestrian Trails
9 (7.6%): Playgrounds
(specify)
1 (0.8%): Skateboard Park
3 (2.5%): Spray Park
5 (4.2%): Soccer/Football/
rugby Fields - Ken McDonald
Memorial Sport Complex
13 (10.9%): Swimming Pool
5 (4.2%): Tennis Courts
7 (5.9%): Track and Field
5th Choice
Number of participants: 105
6 (5.7%): Arena - Large Ice
7 (6.7%): Arena - Small Ice
5 (4.8%): Baseball Diamonds
- Confederation Park
11 (10.5%): Community
Centre - Auditorium
4 (3.8%): Community Centre
- Meeting Rooms
2 (1.9%): Curling Rink
7 (6.7%): Golf Course
6 (5.7%): Off Leash Dog Park
9 (8.6%): Pedestrian Trails
9 (8.6%): Playgrounds
(specify)
2 (1.9%): Skateboard Park
6 (5.7%): Spray Park
2 (1.9%): Soccer/Football/
rugby Fields - Ken McDonald
Memorial Sport Complex
16 (15.2%): Swimming Pool
4 (3.8%): Tennis Courts
9 (8.6%): Track and Field
Other (please specify):
Number of participants: 83
- More equipment on Playground in Heritage subdivision. It is used by a broad age group of children
- Auditorium need paint job, new sound system
- I feel facilities are sufficient for Taber's needs.
- Community Centre Sound System
Pedestrian Trails More of them
- downtown park
- Maintain what you have
- Better Park Confederation
Like Henderson in Lethbridge
- Not Sure
- badminton Courts
- Racquetball Centre
- Lighting
- Playgrounds - All
- Cycling Paths
Playgrounds - Play Equipment
- Build a Theatre
Playgrounds - Central
- Centennial - equipment and
trees Trails- trees and benches
- None of the above
- racquetball court
- Playground - Confederation Park
- Dressing room facilities at the arena in general
- none
- 1,2,3,4,5 - please hurry along the gun range!
- Indoor Sports facility i.e. - Soccer
- None of the above are suitable for my use.
- Washrooms at baseball diamonds - Ken McDonald
- Upgrade & maintain playground equipment
- upgrade the bowling ally
- Bowling Ally
- Theatre completed or new facility for Taber productions
- GAZEBO AT Park Enclosed on sides And bAck
- Volleyball courts on 56 Ave
- Swimming Pool (lessons)
Track & Field Oval (benches)
- we need to apply for provincial money to build a sport complex with new pool facilities 2 large ice surfaces, some courts etc.
Similar to Lacombe.
- Playgrounds - confederation park
- All seem pretty good to me
- Arts and Crafts Centre
- Let's look after what we have and keep them in top notch condition!
- Are pedestrian trails also bicycle trails?
- Spray PARK NEEDS pool!!!
- campgrounds picnic facilities
- Playgrounds - Confederation Park
Spray Park - more trees
- playground - fix broken equipment
- Playgrounds - Confederation Park
- golf course path and streets around 50th
- Personally think we have good overall recreational opportunities for all ages.
- pedestrian trails - add in some challenging trails
Playground - Park 75: equipment not suitable for the very young
- N/A - Don't use any of these facilities
- Join our trails up!
- Rodeo Grounds
- Would love to see trees @ dog park & lights so we can use more in the Winter.
- Playgrounds - Confederation Park
Swimming Pool - more adult swim classes
a room in community centre to meet for a cossee or visit or crib game
- indoor basketball court
- #1 - Performing arts facility
playground - Centennial
Park
- Indoor soccer facility
- Please fix and maintain sidewalks
- Multiplex - More under 1 roof/same area.
- Indoor Soccer/running track (Centennial Place in Sherwood PARK)
- Playgrounds - Put in baby swings
- playgrounds - Centennial, Park 75
- I can't think of any
- Present facilities are adequate
- Dog waste bags should be available on all walking trails (golf course/Ken McDonald) and at the Dog Park.
More garbage cans should be installed on the trails.
- They seem fine to me.
- #1 - Cross Country Motorcycle trails in dump area.
#2 - Trout Pond beach area and for fishing and set up for camping
- Cannot Answer. Unaware
- Nothing - already developed spray park
- Need lights on walking trails!!!!!
- Playground- on 43rd
- Arena seating is small and cramped.. To small for any motocross or monster truck rallys or Concerts.
- DONT USE - NO OPINION
- Parks with lakes (large lakes)
- Playgrounds - beside town building
The small ice really needs HELP! no seating for parents or guests when hockey games are in place! No Heat!
- the entire Civic Centre
- Playgrounds - More rubber turf
- 4. Walking Trail (Walking trail finished)
- Playgrounds - Confederation Park
- Spray Park - bathroom facility
Playground - use of recyclable, swings rubber playground flooring, upgrades
- Something for horse people. Taber AgriPlex is a joke!! It is NOT a proper Equestrian Facility. It is dangerous to board horses
there. The barn needs serious upgrades. That place is dangerous!
- 2. Indoor courts to play volleyball, basketball, soccer etc.
- Playground - new equipment, more play structures. The top of my list would also include the spray park and swimming pool-but
not for upgrades and enhancements but to ensure they stay maintained to be as wonderful as they already are!
- Single track trails for mountain biking
- Agriplex included please
- Arena - Large Ice - has terrible sound system
- Pedestrian Trails- (more) Walking trail to MD Park & Walmart area. Playgrounds - one by TOT office
14. What new facility development would you support (please rank your top 5 with 1 being the
most important): 1st Choice
Number of participants: 188
13 (6.9%): Amphitheatre
8 (4.3%): Basketball Courts
(indoor)
2 (1.1%): Basketball Courts
(outdoor)
4 (2.1%): Beach Volleyball
Courts (outdoor)
49 (26.1%): Bike Paths
10 (5.3%): Climbing Wall
13 (6.9%): Fitness Centre
6 (3.2%): Mountain Bike
Trails
33 (17.6%): Indoor Field
House (Soccer, etc.)
5 (2.7%): Outdoor fitness
Equipment
5 (2.7%): Racquetball Courts
4 (2.1%): Volleyball Courts
(indoor)
36 (19.1%): Walking Track
(indoor)
2nd Choice
Number of participants: 168
7 (4.2%): Amphitheatre
4 (2.4%): Basketball Courts
(indoor)
Am phitheatre: 4.17%
5 (3.0%): Basketball courts
Bas k etball C ourts (indoor): 2.38%
(outdoor)
Bas k etball c ourts (outdoor): 2.98%
Beac h Volley ball C ourts (outdoor): 1.19%
2 (1.2%): Beach Volleyball
W alk ing T rac k (indoor): 19.64%
Courts (outdoor)
28 (16.7%): Bike Paths
Volley ball C ourts (indoor): 2.98%
Bik e Paths : 16.67%
Squas h C ourts : 1.19%
7 (4.2%): BMX Park
R ac quetball C ourts : 2.98%
Outdoor F itnes s Equipm ent: 1.19%
12 (7.1%): Climbing Wall
BM X Park : 4.17%
Indoor F ield H ous e (Soc cer etc.): 9.52%
C lim bing W all: 7.14%
33 (19.6%): Fitness Centre
7 (4.2%): Mountain Bike
Trails
16 (9.5%): Indoor Field House
(Soccer etc.)
2 (1.2%): Outdoor Fitness
Equipment
5 (3.0%): Racquetball Courts
2 (1.2%): Squash Courts
5 (3.0%): Volleyball Courts
(indoor)
33 (19.6%): Walking Track
(indoor)
M ountain Bik e T rails : 4.17%
F itnes s C entre: 19.64%
3rd choice
Number of participants: 137
11 (8.0%): Amphitheatre
2 (1.5%): Basketball Courts
(indoor)
Am phitheatre: 8.03%
Bas k etball C ourts (indoor): 1.46%
2 (1.5%): Basketball courts
Bas k etball c ourts (outdoor): 1.46%
(outdoor)
1 (0.7%): Beach Volleyball
Courts (outdoor)
21 (15.3%): Bike Paths
3 (2.2%): BMX Park
Beac h Volley ball C ourts (outdoor): 0.73%
W alk ing T rac k (indoor): 16.06%
Volley ball C ourts (indoor): 1.46%
Squas h C ourts : 2.92%
Bik e Paths : 15.33%
R ac quetball C ourts : 2.92%
Outdoor F itnes s Equipm ent: 5.84%
BM X Park : 2.19%
20 (14.6%): Climbing Wall
Indoor F ield H ous e (Soc cer etc.): 8.03%
C lim bing W all: 14.60%
16 (11.7%): Fitness Centre
M ountain Bik e T rails : 7.30%
10 (7.3%): Mountain Bike
Trails
11 (8.0%): Indoor Field House
(Soccer etc.)
8 (5.8%): Outdoor Fitness
Equipment
4 (2.9%): Racquetball Courts
4 (2.9%): Squash Courts
2 (1.5%): Volleyball Courts
(indoor)
22 (16.1%): Walking Track
(indoor)
F itnes s C entre: 11.68%
4th Choice
Number of participants: 118
14 (11.9%): Amphitheatre
4 (3.4%): Basketball Courts
(indoor)
2 (1.7%): Basketball courts
(outdoor)
4 (3.4%): Beach Volleyball
Courts (outdoor)
13 (11.0%): Bike Paths
7 (5.9%): BMX Park
18 (15.3%): Climbing Wall
14 (11.9%): Fitness Centre
7 (5.9%): Mountain Bike
Trails
6 (5.1%): Indoor Field House
(Soccer etc.)
8 (6.8%): Outdoor Fitness
Equipment
4 (3.4%): Racquetball Courts
2 (1.7%): Squash Courts
2 (1.7%): Volleyball Courts
(indoor)
13 (11.0%): Walking Track
(indoor)
5th Choice
Number of participants: 109
12 (11.0%): Amphitheatre
2 (1.8%): Basketball Courts
(indoor)
3 (2.8%): Basketball courts
(outdoor)
2 (1.8%): Beach Volleyball
Courts (outdoor)
11 (10.1%): Bike Paths
3 (2.8%): BMX Park
14 (12.8%): Climbing Wall
6 (5.5%): Fitness Centre
13 (11.9%): Mountain Bike
Trails
8 (7.3%): Indoor Field House
(Soccer etc.)
5 (4.6%): Outdoor Fitness
Equipment
7 (6.4%): Racquetball Courts
3 (2.8%): Squash Courts
7 (6.4%): Volleyball Courts
(indoor)
13 (11.9%): Walking Track
(indoor)
Other (please specify):
Number of participants: 45
- There isn't a place to support the arts. That is what is now lacking in Taber, a theater for the community to use.
- None right now.
- Outdoor Playground (like playground at Henderson Park)
- None
- None
- none
- Indoor field house and walking track indoor combine
- Theatre
- outdoor swimming pool
- 1. Indoor Prayground like in leisure centers in Edmonton. This is a lifesaver to moms of young children during long
winters.
- None of the above
- theatre
- walking paths
- Theatre for Taber Players
- Indoor play equipment
- Not aware of any needs!
- more challenging walking/running trails
- N/A
- 3. Hockey Rinks (more!) of them
- Taber does not use what they have.
- There are enough fitness facilities in Taber
- none
- Performing arts facility is #1
- Bike Paths/Walking
- Would definitely like to see more walking/ running paths
- I ONLY MARKED THE ONES WE WOULD USE
- #1 - Another large arena
- A multiuse facility would be able to offer all of these plus racquetball, squash, climbing wall.....
- 3. Performing Arts Theatre
- #4 - More playground equipment at existing parks
- #3 - walking / running trails
- Keep up with what we already have.
- #1 - Cross Country Motorcycle trails in dump area.
#2 - Trout Pond beach area and for fishing and set up for camping
- these Items Seem To B Increasingly Popular With Children
- would love to have a place to rollerblade year round
- In Door movie theatre, go carts, race tracks
- BASEBALL FINISH IT.
- 1. Ice arena
- Indoor rink, outdoor pool
- 5. Proper Agri Plex
- Fitness Centre (Low Cost Options)
- 1. New large ice facility
- What is an amphitheater?
- My most important would be path to Walmart. Dangerous now!
- Lacrosse
15. In your opinion which of the following should the Town of Taber place the most emphasis on?
Number of participants: 219
56 (25.6%): Maintaining
existing recreation facilities
as is
86 (39.3%): Upgrading
existing recreational
facilities
53 (24.2%): Constructing new
recreational facilities
24 (11.0%): Development of
new recreational programs
16. To ensure that community needs for recreation are met, would you support an increase to any
of the following:
Number of participants: 230
10 (4.3%): Property Taxes
70 (30.4%): User Fees
90 (39.1%): Combination of
Property Taxes / User Fees
60
(26.1%): None
17.Overall, how satisfied are you with the availability of recreation services currently offered in
Taber?
Number of participants: 227
49 (21.6%): Very Satisfied
134 (59.0%): Satisfied
17 (7.5%): Unsatisfied
27 (11.9%): Other
Answer(s) from ‘other’ field:
- There are a lot of recreation facilities for a small town
- would really like to see development of walking/biking trails
- Envious of other towns. Sure would be nice to have an indoor facility
- Building new facilities will be necessary for the years to come. Make sure these facilities benefit the majority of the citizens,
with the focus on practicality, not looks.
- Too Expensive
- We moved here from Edmonton last year, so it's a big adjustment
- We love Taber and as our kids age we will have more opportunity to partake in various activities. We love to shoot & climb
though!
- Swimming lesson availability
- We have lived in many towns the size of Taber and Taber's recreation services are second to none. Very proud of what our town
offers.
- the addition of question
#10 items would make me very satisfied
- I don't use any of the facilities but I've never heard any complaints from those I know who do use them
- Completion of the walking path to the river would be nice.
- Would love to see more classes offered - spin class, learn to dance classes, yoga
& aquafit at better times.
- They are ok but the TAX ratio to available facilities is to low. High taxes in relation to other nearby towns.
- I would like to see a larger variety of fitness classes available. Particularly for Adults and Tots.
- Taber has a diverse range of recreation facilities, for a community our size.
- Only my opinion but It Seems We Have Lots To Offer
- somewhat satisfied
- Satisfied for the things we have. Disappointed in the types of thing we have
- For a town this size, we have ample facilities available for use.
- Somewhat unsatisfied
- Satisfied with the opportunities dissatisfied with the service provided at facilities.
- We need another Large Ice arena, and more Classes for swim lessons.
- no variety and there is nothing for teenagers; except school sports. Really nothing for Adults either.
- More indoor walking opportunities in evening at civic centre.
- A lot of projects/improvements have been for outdoor activities however we have 8 months of cold weather where citizens
require more indoor recreational facilities therefore we go to Lethbridge or somewhere else.
- Don’t forget the agriplex and/or Trout Pond
18. Please provide any further comments regarding recreation facilities, programs or services in
the Town of Taber.
Number of participants: 87
- The part that seems to be missing is lack of bicycle features. What about: Mountain Bike Trails in the area west of town (Town
owned land).
A pump track or BMX type bike park at Ken McDonald, just north of the entrance.
More Bike racks down town.
- Would like to see a multiuse facility for indoor soccer etc.
- We use the dog park on a daily basis and would like to see upgrades out there.
- 2 way gate
- shade
- water
- holes filled in
We would like to see the walking trails expanded
Mountain Bike trails would be great!
- Everything costs too much, especially when you are a senior on a limited amount of money.
- The Town of Taber could look at finding cost effective ways of reducing costs to run some facilities (swimming pool, ice arenas).
Are there new methods to heating or cooling, lighting theses facilities (energy efficient technology? Sometimes new technology is
expensive at first, but pays in the long run. There are also some simple ways of reducing costs - turn lights off when the facility is
empty all day. Yes, I have been to the arena - it is absolutely empty -yet all the lights are on - doesn't make sense.
Why does the pool need to spend money every year on maintenance? How about every other year? We need to spend our
taxpayers' money as wisely as we can. Seems to be a lot of money wasted - why did we need doors leading to the viewing area?
Really not necessary!
- But again no mention of support of the arts. We are sadly lacking in a community of this size. Such a facility would be greatly
utilized by those not so involved in sports but in the arts. The turn out by students in our public school system when a play is
announced should be an indication of the interest and the needs for some kind of permanent theatre facility in our community,
- I would like to see more paths for walking/running/biking around town.
- 1. Town could really use a new Playground centrally located. Centennial Park area. Equipment and surface like parks in
Henderson Lake. Not at a school.
2. Small ice upgrade . At a minimum seating if possible large ice surface.
- Would like to see sponsorship revenue used to offset rising recreation costs.
- Would like Saturday fitness swim longer & earlier
- I feel very satisfied with existing recreational facilities and programs/services provided by the Town of Taber.
The recreational sites are beautiful and well maintained.
- Would like to see a place for indoor sports. Badminton would go over well. We could have all sorts of events.
Medicine Hat has an Academy in the newer area. One half is High school the other is a fitness centre. It has a walking path high
up surrounding the courts etc.
- Walking/running tracks need lighting for the large part of the year
- We need more things for youth to keep them out of trouble.
- Focus on Arts
Develop a Teepee ring site!
A trail to the MD Park with trees, benches and a view point
Trees, up keep and develop trails in off leash dog park
- Quad Trails
- Synchronized swimming would be a nice addition to Aquafun Centre.
- Westview Estates is major need of a playground. There are so many kids living in this area with nonplayground closer than St.
Pat's School.
Confederation Park ball diamonds have had extremely hard infields. Would also be nice if they had sheltered dugouts. Ken
McDonald is much nicer for ball.
- Recreation opportunities keep residents in town. Without top quality programs people will travel the 50km to Lethbridge to
satisfy their need. and do their shopping and other business when they are there.
- My biggest issue is the swimming lesson program. I grew up in Brooks and swimming lessons were a part of our school phys. ed
program. That was almost 40 years ago and they are still doing it that way to this day. Every year I have a problem getting my
kids into the proper level in Taber. This is frustrating and I am considering taking them to another town as I've heard others do
that as well. Also, (this is a Taber Minor Hockey issue, but could be run by the town) my kids used to be involved in Pond
Hockey, which was terribly coordinated (not coordinated at all). Now that it has been cancelled, we just rent the ice, and play
shinny. I wish the town would run a proper pond/rec hockey league (i.e. like Coaldale) that would have nothing to do with Taber
Minor Hockey.
- I would like to see improved sidewalk paths so a person can walk throughout Taber without having to walk on the road or risk
stumbling an cracked and broke concrete.
I do not feel the town has the population base to support all the existing facilities.
As our population ages we should be providing infrastructure that promoted wellness in everyone. Walking is the cheapest and
easiest form of recreation, yet we are all driving a few blocks to pick up groceries or supplies because walking is too unsafe.
I think that until we provide the best in basic services, we should not be thinking of any new projects.
- Love the new spray park. Can watch the kids play there from my balcony at Signature Point
- I think Taber has enough sport facilities and it is time to concentrate on cultural facilities
- Indoor winter activities. Nothing for kids to do in Winter Time.
- PLEASE Construct A FIELD House!
- Our wants should not exceed our ability to support them. Needs should be more important.
- It's a small town. It won't have everything, but there ia a fair amount to do and choose from.
- Everyone I talk to complains about lack of swimming lessons availability or having to line up at 6/7 am outside the Aquafun
Centre. Indoor soccer centre would generate it's own income from user fees, tournaments etc.
- Would like to see an indoor track to use when icy and super windy and bitter cold.
I do not use the walking paths as I am afraid of dogs that people do not keep on a leash.
I walk daily
- TABER HAS VERY NICE RECREATION FACILITIES. IT IS TOO BAD THAT THESE FACILITIES ARE BEING ABUSED INSTEAD OF BEING
USED. IF THE BYLAW PERSONNEL COULD STOP THESE FACILITIES FROM BEING ABUSED, THESE FACILITIES WOULD BE USED BY THE
PEOPLE WHO RESPECT WHAT THE TOWN OFFERS.
- I think an indoor field house would be great interest to the people of Taber & area. A building on north side of R.R. street would
be a good spot. Lacrosse seems to be catching on.
- Incentives and promotions should be encouraged to get more people involved and active with what we do have.
- Proud of the facilities in Taber. A little updating may be in order. As for adding more facilities - "how much is too much".
Children need to play, they do not need expensive buildings to do so. Would like rules for the walking paths. Is it a bike path &
roller blading path also? Do pedestrians need to scatter when a bike or roller bladder comes roaring up behind you? Should have
a list of rules.
- Would like cost of ICE TO Go down & Turn on the HEATERS for figure skating not just Hockey
- I'd like to see more value for my tax dollar. It's good to keep our kids occupied but we should also be considering all citizens.
What about families where the kids are grown or those that don't have kids-very little here to motivate those folks to be part of
the community. I feel council & administration have forgotten we rely on them to make good decisions for our community both
fiscally & concerning our quality of life. I'm not convinced that always happens in the current environment. Thank you
- I think we have great facilities here in Taber. I do find with my young kids our winters are long and it is sometimes hard for them
to get their exercise. If a dry sport facility/ gym for basketball or volleyball would be good. If during the day it could be used by
adults and tots and give them some space to run.
Our new spray park and gymnastic facility are amazing!
e need more swimming lesson. Too many kids are not taking swim lessons because of the crazy registration and not enough
classes.
- We need more indoor activities as it is cold most of the year.
maybe some kind of community kitchen for cooking classes for younger kids or a music facility
A theatre for drama that kids can be involved in too.
- Must have online registration. You should not need to line up at 6am for swimming lessons.
- I think if there was some where for people to take their quads with a good mud pit it would be very popular!
- There needs to be indoor recreational opportunities for people who enjoy them. A facility with an indoor track, soccer fields &
open gym would benefit the community. We do not need another fitness center.
- expand running trails
make some more challenging
- Taber has a lot of old empty buildings. Why build more? When my home sells I will only be too glad to leave Taber. You tax my
property to the point that I can't afford groceries anymore. I costs more to live here than in a city. How dare you send me a
survey asking me if I want to up my property tax so that you can build some more useless buildings!
- Too Many Chiefs, Pretty soon we will have one department head for each worker, which in turn cost way more money, and not
as much gets done.
- Would like to see:
1) Connect bike trails- the bits and pieces we have are essentially useless. Can't safely walk/bike/rollerblade from the Aquafun
Centre to Ken McDonald for example. And why does the trail go down the northside of the graveyard? To connect to MD? This
should have done when it actually goes to MD.
2) Lights (more lights) are needed along bike trails
3) Connections to Walmart - An accident waiting to happen with vehicles vs. pedestrians
- I am in support of a new multi-use facility (the one that a group is proposing in Taber currently)
- A walking path/ sidewalk needs to be put in place in front of Fitch Tire etc. to Walmart. There are constantly people walking on
the road there.
Dog park needs better upkeep. Too many holes.
Auditorium / swimming pool / arena parking lot needs new lines painted with directions arrows as well.
Year round bathroom facilities around golf course for walkers
- Need more stores, shopping
- I would like to see the water bill go down. Other towns don't pay such high rates
- Would like to see a facility that would have a number of different venues under one roof. Build for the future-Not patch work
here and there.
- Indoor basketball courts and if possible I would like pick-up ball and possibly a tournament in the summer for all ages
- Combination of Property Taxes/User Fees - but not on a percentage base of current taxes but a fee on all taxes.
- Technically, I suppose, performing arts/theatre may not be considered recreation, but in actual fact it is, This is the one facility
that Taber desperately needs!
- Hockey teams need more ice time so they don't have to travel out of town to practice.
- More than once my children have gone else where because of not enough room in swimming lessons
Town programs during the summer are also quite pricy considering the care they are given.
- We are not always aware of the programs available. We try to use the recreation facilities as often as we can and do enjoy what
Taber has to offer. Thank you.
- More variety would be great. We are a very diversified community and it would be nice to offer something for everyone.
Facilities are mostly well kept for their age, however they are all aging rapidly. Auditorium definitely need an overhaul. Would
be nice to offer a facility that could facilitate more adult recreation (rec. volleyball, basketball, badminton etc.)
A walking path to Walmart area would be well used.
- I feel there needs to be more programs geared towards the 13-17 age range.
- I think the Town of Taber has enough recreation facilities. I just think it is not necessary to get any more.
- Please invest more funding in the maintenance & modernization of existing recreation facilities, so they may not deteriorate to
the state some have, such as Community Centre (arenas, auditorium etc). Keep adding to the pedestrian trail, in accordance
with the original trail concept plan. Require Developers to do this work within development agreements.
- Given the size of our town we have a lot of facilities already. Lethbridge is only 25 min. away which is not that much different
than if you lived in Calgary and had to drive somewhere.
New facilities draw new users and can help attract more people to the town, but you have to have the right people to promote
runs, programs, maintain facilities and programing in order to keep people interested and that can be a bigger challenge than
building the new facility.
- Taber property taxes have gone up substantially over the last 5 years. Where is the money going?
- We are very pleased with the senior facilities in Taber.
- Some sort of indoor play centre for children would be wonderful to have in town.
A good place to go and play inside when weather does not permit enjoyable outside play. I feel this would be well used by
families of this and surrounding community.
- Taber has many rec and sport facilities. A balance should always be made of user pay to taxpayer subsidies and support to
afford all recreational opportunities.
No where in the survey is there a possible meeting/ gathering area for large groups of youth???
- Only 1 thing for seniors was mentioned. Maybe more activities and programs for seniors.
- extend pool hours on Saturday nights
lights on walking path
- Save your money and fix the roads in this town. Bring more business to Taber instead of driving them away. Fix road to
Cemetery. This will be a ghost town some day. Finally...what’s the point of this survey when you don't listen to the people of
this town anyway. If you don't like what we say, your going to go and do what you want anyway. Like your garbage survey.
People said NO, but your still trying to bring in curbside pickup.
- Maintenance is the biggest part that should be looked at. I have attended functions at the arena's and needed to talk to a Town
Employee, but couldn’t see or identify one, as all they were all wearing was normal street clothes. The spray park & skateboard
park were constructed in the wrong area. Both should be situated close to the entrance of Centennial Park so visitors could see
that we have them, and also graffiti would be to a minimum as it isn't tucked into a corner.
- We really need to see upgrades to the arena! The small ice is not appropriate & does not accommodate visitors! Our poor guests
visiting for hockey from surrounding communities groan when placed in small arena. 90% of the time there is no heat & 100% of
the time no seating.
- We believe various yoga programs should be offered for all levels
- As a family we are mostly satisfied with recreation facilities, programs, and opportunities in Taber (especially given the small
size of our town), however, one area that is lacking (and that we use the most) is our trail system. We really need the trail to
extend to the MD Park and along 64th ave. This trail system could be used by everyone in the community, not just a specific
group (walkers, runners, young, old, physical limitations, biking, etc.).
- the facilities in Taber have been neglected for much too long. The auditorium complex is in a state of disrepair and the swim
lessons offered are in need of a revamp as well. It is about time Taber paid attention to these needs.
- Need to clean trails and walk ways in winter for walking and not wreck lawn/equip/sidewalk while doing it. Slow down & do it
right. Need to provide better service @ swimming pool. We are not allowed to have fun. Every other pool has way less rules and
everyone is safe and has fun. we go to Med Hat pools often for this reason. Get a slide for kiddie pool! toys (Med Hat has 100
toys) & let parents go down waterslide w kids (more safe) Med Hat allows this! And have online reg for swimming like Taber
gymnastics. thank you!
- Large Rink needs to have more public skating times. Change room/bathroom @ spray park. Outdoor Pool/waterslide. Speaker
sound system in Large rink needs to be improved. Heater's in large & small rink need to be upgraded. Mores seating in small rink.
More swimming lessons times to be added to the schedule.
- It Time To look AT a RETROfit of ARENA's
- Why do people have to travel out of town for Family Day activities? Canada Day Activities? I think the employees of the Town of
Taber should be more involved in the Community and plan these activities. Why is there no activities for teenagers? Why do
people have to go out of town to have their kids involved in activities that the Town of Taber is too lazy to do. Vauxhall and
Coaldale have excellent events. What is wrong with Taber?!?
- It is hard to entice new families to move here with the lack of indoor facilities/shopping as an employer. All of our children’s
extra sport activities required us to travel out of town as Taber does not have the proper facilities. The only racquetball/squash
facilities the town did have was sold and turned into a school/Ace place. It would be nice to have a place where residence can
go play vball, basketball, soccer, squash, walk or general fitness activities. This would also attract tournaments/special events
& bring in more $ for hotels/stores/restaurants.
- More grass/nice grass for dog park
- Existing facilities are great, just need to be upgraded and maintained. Our arena needs new sound system, better heating and
small ice needs upgrades or even better a new large ice. Outdoor parks are great! Spray park is wonderful and would like to see
it maintained to stay that way, as well as the pool. The indoor complex that is being talked about would be a wonderful addition
for everyone!
- I'm 89 years old and don't use them often.
- I feel that building a new facility is not fiscally responsible. At a time when our provincial government is also making cut backs
why would the town put money toward this? Our tax payers money would be better spent maintaining our facility(s) that we
currently have and possibly upgrading so that they remain useful and high quality. Keeping well maintained current facilities
will continue to attract sporting events such as tournaments, competitions and swim meets.
- The town of Taber needs a wider variety of sports facilities & programs offered
- Single track cross country mountain bike trails would be wonderful. Especially along the river and coulees.
- I am shocked actually how well kept up the skate park is. In other towns it is often an eyesore but in ours it is getting used
and respected by many. Also, the spray park has had a tremendous impact on the young and parents in this town. It has
received way more support that I would have guessed.
- Why is the agriplex not included? Beautiful Trout Pond, why is it not utilized?
- In the next 10-15 years, Capital expenditures for safety, security and ease of access, will be your due diligence. Maintain will
require money, but Qualified and educated man power is a priority, your plan must reflect these realities. My Taxes should
never be seen as the answer.
- I believe it's important to maintain current facilities such as soccer baseball. I am still disappointed at the loss of so many ball
diamonds. Need a path out to Walmart. Pedestrians & bikers on that service road is dangerous.
APPENDIX D: SURVEY #1 SUMMARY
50
Town of Taber Recreation Master Plan Household Survey Summary
Based on 224 surveys returned
Are you a resident of (please pick one):
96.0%: Town of Taber
3.1%: MD of Taber
0.9%: Village of Barnwell
0.0%: Town of Vauxhall
0.0%: Other
The 224 surveys returned indicated that they were completed by:
89 surveys or 40%: Family Households (Senior/ Adult and children)
70 surveys or 31%: Senior Only Households (60+ years)
55 surveys or 24%: Adult Only Households (18-59 years)
10 surveys or 5%: Unknown
Through what methods have you learned about recreation facilities, programs and services in Taber?
(# of times each option was chosen )
Have Used
Prefer to Use
146x Word of Mouth
53x Town Website
91x Town Website
50x Word of Mouth
82x Leisure Guide
44x Monthly Facility Schedules
80x Monthly Facility Schedule
40x Cornhusk Chronicles
76x Cornhusk Chronicles
37x Facebook
72x Posters
34x Leisure Guide
46x Facebook
23x Posters
Overall, how satisfied are you with the range of recreational opportunities (facilities,
programs & services) in Taber?
Taber Recreational Opportunities
Very Satisfied
Somewhat Satisfied
Somewhat Unsatisfied
Very Unsatisfied
Other
0.00%
10.00%
20.00%
30.00%
40.00%
50.00%
What Types of activities do you and members of your household most enjoy:
(Maximum of 5 votes per survey)
Participation
Ball Hockey (3)
Rugby (5)
0.3%
0.5%
Skateboarding (8)
0.8%
Racquetball (9)
0.9%
Football (10)
1.0%
Figure Skating (12)
1.3%
Tennis (17)
1.8%
Mt. Biking (18)
1.9%
Volleyball (19)
2.0%
Slow Pitch (23)
Weight Training (30)
2.4%
3.0%
Running (33)
3.5%
Public Skating (34)
3.6%
Basketball (34)
3.6%
Baseball (34)
3.6%
Soccer (40)
4.7%
Hockey (47)
5%
General Play (52)
5.5%
Fitness Classes (57)
6%
Golf (65)
Bike Riding (100)
Swimming (131)
Walking (161)
7%
11%
14%
17%
60.00%
Which facilities would you like to see upgraded or enhanced (please rank your top 5 with 1 being the
most important):
According to # of times chosen
Arena – Large Ice
Arena – Small Ice
Community Center - Auditorium
Golf Course
Off Leash Dog Park
Pedestrian Trail
Playgrounds
Swimming Pool
Track & Field Oval
1st
28
23
24
6
14
56
5
16
1
2nd
20
17
15
5
8
31
19
14
3
3rd
11
11
17
8
5
24
12
18
2
4th
12
12
18
2
12
8
9
13
7
5th
6
7
4
7
6
9
9
16
9
Total
77
70
78
28
45
128
54
77
22
What new facility development would you support (please rank your top 5 with 1 being the
most important):
According to # of times chosen
Amphitheatre
Bike Paths
Climbing Wall
Fitness Centre
Indoor Field House
Indoor Walking Track
Mountain Bike Trails
1st
13
49
10
13
33
36
6
2nd
7
28
12
33
16
33
7
3r d
11
21
20
16
11
22
10
4th
14
13
18
14
6
13
7
5th
12
11
14
6
8
13
13
Total
57
122
74
82
74
117
43
In your opinion which of the following should the Town of Taber place the most emphasis on?
Development of New Programs
Construct New Facilities
Maintaining Existing Facilities As Is
Upgrading Existing Facilities
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
To ensure that community needs for recreation are met, would you support an increase to any of the
following:
Property Taxes
None
User Fees
Combination of User Fees & Property Taxes
0%
5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45%
APPENDIX E: RESULTS OF HOUSEHOLD SURVEY #2
51
Town of Taber Recreation Master Plan Household Survey #2 Results
Please indicate which category best fits your current household.
Number of participants: 130
56 (43.1%): Senior (60+)
29 (22.3%): Older Family
(most children in middleschool, highschool or higher)
Married Adult 5.4%
Single Adult 13.1%
10 (7.7%): Medium Aged Family
(children range from elementary to high school)
Senior 43.1%
Younger Family 8.5%
11 (8.5%): Younger Family
(most children not yet school age or in elementary school)
Medium Aged Family 7.7%
17 (13.1%): Single Adult (no children)
7 (5.4%): Married Adult (no children)
Older Family 22.3%
Which of the following would you support to provide funding for facility enhancement or
development?
Number of participants: 131
6 (4.6%): increased property taxes
42 (32.1%): increased user fees
54 (41.2%): combination of increased property taxes/user
fees
29 (22.1%): none
1|Page
Prior research has indicated the following facilities to be areas of most interest. Please
indicate your level of support for each.
Upgrade/Enhancement of EXISTING FACILITIES:
Number of participants: 135
very
somewhat
somewhat
very
no
supportive supportive supportive neutral unsupportive unsupportive unsupportive opinion
(1)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
%
%
%
∑
∑
∑
±
∑
Arena - Large Ice
34x 25.19 30x 22.22 12x 8.89 24x 17.78
3x
2.22
2x
1.48
3x
2.22 27x 20.00 3.63 2.58
Arena - Small Ice
32x 24.06 26x 19.55 12x 9.02 29x 21.80
2x
1.50
1x
0.75
3x
2.26 28x 21.05 3.74 2.58
Ball Diamonds - Ken McDo… 12x 9.02 34x 25.56 26x 19.55 23x 17.29
3x
2.26
2x
2x
1.50 31x 23.31 4.05 2.45
Community Centre - Audi… 34x 25.19 46x 34.07 16x 11.85 11x 8.15
1x
0.74
1x
1x
0.74 25x 18.52 3.23 2.50
Off Leash Dog Park
11x 8.53 16x 12.40 18x 13.95 31x 24.03
3x
2.33
7x
7x
5.43 36x 27.91 4.77 2.46
Playgrounds
32x 24.24 45x 34.09 21x 15.91 9x 6.82
2x
1.52
1x
0.76 22x 16.67 3.14 2.40
Swimming pool
43x 32.33 44x 33.08 16x 12.03 7x 5.26
2x
1.50
1x
0.75
1x
0.75 19x 14.29 2.87 2.35
Track and field oval
17x 12.78 22x 16.54 29x 21.80 27x 20.30
2x
1.50
2x
1.50
3x
2.26 31x 23.31 4.11 2.46
Walking trails
65x 48.87 31x 23.31 11x 8.27 10x 7.52
1x
0.75 15x 11.28 2.46 2.22
5.43
Existing Facilities
60.00%
50.00%
40.00%
30.00%
20.00%
10.00%
0.00%
Arena- Large Arena- Small
Ball
Ice
Ice
BiamondsKMMSC
2|Page
Community
Centre
Auditorium
Off Leash
Dog Park
Playgrounds Swimming
Pool
Track and Walking Path
Field Oval
very supportive
supportive
somewhat supportive
neutral
somewhat unsupportive
unsupportive
very unsupportive
no opinion
To what extent would you support possible NEW FACILITY DEVELOPMENT in the following
areas:
Number of participants: 135
very
somewhat
somewhat
very
no
supportive supportive supportive neutral unsupportive unsupportive unsupportive opinion
(1)
(5)
(6)
(7)
(8)
%
%
%
∑
∑
∑
∑
±
Amphitheatre/Outdoor St… 13x 9.63 22x 16.30 32x 23.70 22x 16.30
4x
2.96
9x
6.67
11x
8.15 22x 16.30 4.21 2.32
Bike Paths
37x 27.82 41x 30.83 14x 10.53 16x 12.03
1x
0.75
3x
2.26
1x
0.75 20x 15.04 3.12 2.38
Climbing Wall
16x 12.03 17x 12.78 13x 9.77 41x 30.83
3x
2.26
11x
8.27
7x
5.26 25x 18.80 4.38 2.33
Fitness Centre
21x 15.79 27x 20.30 20x 15.04 26x 19.55
4x
3.01
7x
5.26
6x
4.51 22x 16.54 3.90 2.39
Indoor Fieldhouse
20x 15.15 17x 12.88 19x 14.39 32x 24.24
4x
3.03
6x
4.55
6x
4.55 28x 21.21 4.25 2.45
Indoor Walking Track
34x 26.15 29x 22.31 16x 12.31 26x 20.00
2x
1.54
5x
3.85
4x
3.08 14x 10.77 3.26 2.24
Mountain Bike Trails
13x 9.77 23x 17.29 22x 16.54 33x 24.81
4x
3.01
7x
5.26
7x
5.26 24x 18.05 4.21 2.31
New Facility Development
35.00%
30.00%
25.00%
20.00%
15.00%
10.00%
5.00%
0.00%
Amphitheatre
3|Page
Bike Paths
Climbing Wall
Fitness Centre
Indoor Fieldhouse Indoor Walking
Track
very supportive
supportive
somewhat supportive
neutral
somewhat unsupportive
unsupportive
very unsupportiv
no opinion
Mountain Bike
Trails
Priorities for upgrading/enhancing each of the following existing facilities:
Arena - Large Ice
no opinion
Number of participants: 137
upgrade seating area
60 (43.8%): no opinion
33 (24.1%): upgrade seating area
improve ice surface
15 (10.9%): improve ice surface
more stand heaters
36 (26.3%): more stand heaters
27 (19.7%): improve dressing rooms
improve dressing rooms
new score clock
11 (8.0%): new score clock
29 (21.2%): protective white netting for better viewing
protective white netting
36 (26.3%): new sound system
new sound system
6 (4.4%): Other
other
Answer(s) from the additional field:
- Really not familiar enough with the facility to provide
informed opinion... However recognize the importance of
maintaining such facilities to entice families to our
community.
- 2nd large ice
- build new double surface ice arena
- walkways from the locker rooms right to the players' benches
- leave it alone reduce TAXES!!
Arena – Small Ice
68 (50.4%): no opinion
31 (23.0%): make into full ice surface
14 (10.4%): wheelchair accessible
21 (15.6%): improve ice surface
17 (12.6%): add sound system
2 (1.5%): time clock at ice level
35 (25.9%): heat for seating area
27 (20.0%): improve seating
24 (17.8%): increase seating
6 (4.4%): Other
Answer(s) from the additional field:
- Really not familiar enough with the facility to provide
informed opinion... However recognize the importance of
maintaining such facilities to entice families to our
community.
- no upgrades till town is out of debt!
- Tear it down
- year round ice available for rent
- leave it alone reduce TAXES!!
- The small ice is a joke. Its cold, no seating, the layout is
bad. It needs to be torn down and rebuilt!!!
4|Page
no opinion
make into a full
ice surface
wheelchair
accessible
improve ice
surface
add sound
system
time clock at
ice level
heat for seating
area
improve seating
increase seating
other
(see comments)
Ball Diamonds –
Ken McDonald Memorial Sport Complex
64 (46.7%): no opinion
no opinion
54 (39.4%): washroom facilities
22 (16.1%): lighted diamond
26 (19.0%): concession
15 (10.9%): wheelchair accessible
33 (24.1%): trees/shade
25 (18.2%): finish 4th diamond
7 (5.1%): Other
Answer(s) from the additional field:
- I think the diamonds at Confederation Park need some
improvement. Being on a mixed ball team, playing
downtown is much nicer than going down to Ken
McDonald.
- Really not familiar enough with the facility to provide
informed opinion... However recognize the importance
of maintaining such facilities to entice families to our
community.
- Pave the driveways
- Remove diamond on the 48th Ave. Parking/viewing is
crowded. The diamond on the bend is dangerous for
children on a narrow grass strip.
- leave it alone reduce TAXES!!
washroom
facilities
lighted
diamond
concession
wheelchair
accessible
trees/
shade
finish 4th
diamond
other(see
Comments)
Community Centre Auditorium
31 (23.0%): no opinion
no opinion
41 (30.4%): improve bathrooms
improve
bathrooms
63 (46.7%): update interior appearance
27 (20.0%): more bathrooms for big events
7 (5.2%): improve parking
11 (8.1%): take court lines off the floor
20 (14.8%): upgrade walls
9 (6.7%): more hand driers for bathrooms
62 (45.9%): upgrade audio system
5 (3.7%): Other
Answer(s) from the additional field:
- no upgrades!
- In favor of Theatre Etc. Complex Enlargement
- Need wheelchair ramps by the stairs. Need to be by the
stairs not opposite wall
- leave it alone reduce TAXES!!
- We like this for walking in the winter. Very suitable now.
5|Page
update interior
appearance
more bathrooms
for big events
improve parking
take court lines
off the floor
upgrade walls
more hand driers
in the bathroom
upgrade audio
system
other (see comments)
Off Leash Dog Park
81 (60.4%): no opinion
24 (17.9%): washrooms
no opinion
16 (11.9%): lighting
washrooms
10 (7.5%): shelter area
lighting
8 (6.0%): double gated entry
shelter area
32 (23.9%): trees/shaded area to sit
2 (1.5%): agility track improvements
6 (4.5%): identification sign
28 (20.9%): water supply for drinking
5 (3.7%): water supply for irrigation
5 (3.7%): Other
Answer(s) from the additional field:
-
no upgrades!
too far from town and the existing parks
Consider citizens 1st let dog owners be more responsible
no interest
this was a waste of money!
double gated
entry
trees/shaded
area to sit
agility track
improvements
identification
sign
water supply for
drinking
water supply for
irrigation
other –
(see comments)
Playgrounds
38 (27.7%): no opinion
50 (36.5%): bathrooms
47 (34.3%): upgrade equipment
no opinion
bathrooms
40 (29.2%): picnic tables
60 (43.8%): more activities for all ages
32 (23.4%): more equipment
upgrade
equipment
picnic tables
7 (5.1%): Other
Answer(s) from the additional field:
- BATHROOMS!
- Outdoor fitness equipment for adults (use for free!)
- more seating
- More leaf trees for protection from
the sun especially around the sprat
park.
- leave it alone reduce TAXES!!
- possibly more checking at night for
those who abuse the parks
- Finish what was started & seems to have been abandoned
6|Page
more activities
for all ages
more
equipment
other(see comments)
Please indicate which playground(s)
- Any
- All
playgrounds
of them.
- Confederation
Park, M.D. Campground, Westlake Elementary School
- Just
ensure that all playground equipment is updated... appropriate for a variety of age groups.
Possibly investigate the potential of an outdoor fitness area / equipment near walking paths... tracks... etc.
- Confederation
- Confederation
Park
- Spray
park area and skate board park needs more shade and seating area.
- Lions
park
- All
playgrounds
- All
- Train
park by Lutheran church, Purple spray park on south side and Dr. Harman school.... not sure if qualifies because
it’s a school
- Confederation
Park
- confederation
- the
one by the town office
- Centennial
Park
- Centennial
Park - Upgrade equipment! More equipment!
- spray
park
- Spray
park
- Little
spray park on the south side, Westlake. Castle looking one.
- confederation
- Would
- 56
be nice if there was a playground in Westview Estates area. Lots of young children in that area would benefit.
Ave & 43 St playground signs should be installed to identify the playground
- Park
75 has a terrible playground. Nice park with nothing kids like to play on.
- All
playgrounds
- St.
Pats
- Confederation
Park
Public playground on south side
- Confederation
- Confederation
Park
- All
- Confederat
ion Lions
Park
Southside Spray Park
- confederation
- Sunrise
7|Page
Crescent Playground in S.E. Taber
Swimming Pool
44 (32.6%): no opinion
40 (29.6%): leisure pool kids slide
no opinion
7 (5.2%): better toys
29 (21.5%): add a climbing wall
39 (28.9%): add a larger family slide (where parents
can assist)
leisure pool kids slide
better toys
51 (37.8%): online registration for swimming lessons
22 (16.3%): large inflatable toys (i.e. obstacle course)
add a climbing wall
13 (9.6%): Other
Answer(s) from the additional field:
- Provide equipment to assist wheelchair-bound patrons
accessibility to the dressing rooms, bathrooms and the
pool itself
- additional change rooms
- maintain what is a good facility
- more family change stalls
- I use the pool all the time and it is good as is.
- More change rooms presently lacking people are using
bathrooms as change rooms.
- there should be special times for folks who wear cloths
- seating
- more seating
- make sure maintain operation of pool. Love to swim.
- Turn into a big leisure pool like Med. Hat has larger,
taller diving board.
- reduce fees
- leave it alone reduce TAXES!!
add larger family slide
online swim lesson
registration
large inflatable toys
other – (see comments)
Track and Field Oval
70 (51.1%): no opinion
49 (35.8%): washrooms facilities
42 (30.7%): trees/shade
29 (21.2%): rubberize track surface
9 (6.6%): improve middle field surface
24 (17.5%): more spectator seating
4 (2.9%): Other
Answer(s) from the additional field:
- Perhaps investigate the addition of outdoor fitness
equipment to promote healthy living.
- no upgrades!
- not interested
- leave it alone reduce TAXES!!
8|Page
no opinion
washroom
facilities
trees/shade
rubberize
track surface
improve
middle field
surface
more spectator
seating
other- (see
comments)
The following have been identified as high interest areas for possible NEW RECREATION FACILITIES.
Amphitheatre/Outdoor Stage in Confederation Park
Number of participants: 130
67 (51.5%): no opinion
23 (17.7%): sound booth on the side
no opinion
25 (19.2%): permanent stage for Cornfest
18 (13.8%): build a new BASIC stage structure
sound booth on
the side
47 (36.2%): design it for concerts in the park
15 (11.5%): relocate and enlarge the existing stage
permanent stage for
Cornfest
build a new basic
stage structure
design it for concerts
in the park
relocate and enlarge
the existing stage
Other Ideas for Amphitheatre/Outdoor Stage
- More
shade for attendees?
- The
town should not consider any unnecessary spending until our debt is paid and essential infrastructure is properly
maintained and in good repair.
- We
not think an amphitheater will be utilized as well as the other new recreation facilities proposed.
- gets
used once a year. Do we really need a larger permanent one?
- More
- Use
picnic tables and more music concerts
for watching movies in the summer like a drive in.
- Season
- There
is to short to justify this facility
is already an unused outdoor stage at the MD park. We do not need another unused stage in confederation
park.
- Do
not change
- Stop
finding stupid stuff to spend money on
- Good
as is.
- Don't
need it.
9|Page
Bike Paths
45 (34.4%): no opinion
no opinion
45 (34.4%): separate from the walking path/sidewalks
31 (23.7%): bike racks placed in strategic places
65 (49.6%): interconnected to parks and other points of
separate from the walking
path/sidewalks
interest
30 (22.9%): incorporate into streets
bike racks placed in
strategic places
interconnected to parks
and other points of interest
incorporate into streets
Other ideas for Bike Paths
- Garbage
- No
cans, lighting, markers for distance.
upgrades!
- Several
areas of Taber have large boulevards (over 6 feet wide) and very wide streets. Bike paths could use some of this
wasted space.
- Bike
paths now are appropriate for size of towns population. Bike riders and walkers can share!
- Trash
- This
cans. Bike symbol indicating use painted on path.
is a make work project for
- More
distance
10 | P a g e
The
company should not be allowed to bid.
Climbing Wall
93 (69.9%): no opinion
no opinion
20 (15.0%): large wall requiring climbing gear/training
15 (11.3%): smaller bouldering wall
23 (17.3%): equipment rental available
9 (6.8%): separate climbing facility
25 (18.8%): added to an existing facility (pool/auditorium)
large wall requiring
climbing gear/training
small bouldering wall
equipment rental
available
separate climbing
facility
added to an existing
facility
Other ideas about a Climbing Wall
- Perhaps
could be coordinated with the Swimming Facility for all year use. Has it been investigated a similar facility as
Raymond Pool where a variety of centres / activity centres to encourage family day use and family outings...
- No
spending!
- Talk
- Put
to the lethbridge university about theirs
in the fieldhouse
- Family
- no
friendly place where you can take small children for activities too.
real idea, but it would be good fun for younger folks
- provide
lessons
- climbing
- not
needed at this time
- Leave
-A
wall also could use a roller skating facility.
this to private business to implement.
climbing area that requires no equipment
- Waste
of money!
11 | P a g e
Fitness Centre
Past research has indicated that interest in a fitness Centre is high. We are searching for ideas to
accommodate a fitness Centre if an indoor field house is not built. Please list any ideas you may
have below.
- An
all-weather walking track that seniors could use would be very beneficial. As Taber has a wide demographic
range, it would be most advantageous to have all our residents involved in physical activities, that way the
population would be healthier.
- It
is my opinion that a fitness centre should be left to commercial operators to own and operate and it is not a
town responsibility.
- Try
to adjoin all in one house would be great. Make the small ice into big ice with walking path, good sound
system, up to date hockey change rooms. Open up in off hockey/skating season for lacrosse, indoor soccer,
parties, weddings etc. Two arenas adjoined with a field house adjoining with pool museum and other rooms of
conference, meetings.
- More
yoga classes or fitness in general of all kinds all through out the day for different jobs
- Taber
already has fitness centres. Why should the taxpayers pay for another?
- rooms
for fitness classes (i.e. bootcamps, yoga, etc.) also rooms/programs for children (i.e. programs for preschool aged children such as tiny tumblers, basic sports skills)
- Indoor
- We
walking Track, weight room, exercise equipment etc.
have three fitness centre businesses in town. Don't compete and build another one.
- Close
to or connected to the pool.
- Exercise
- Build
- Why
equipment, spare for dance classes (please offer)
an indoor fieldhouse.
compete with business already in place
- Make
it senior friendly, so seniors feel comfortable using it also. There are lots of seniors who like to keep in
shape.
- Wheelchair
- Should
- Have
accessible centralized location affordable
have more info on use and then you may get more takers, especially the older folk.
climbing wall in fitness facility.
- Indoor
track, studio for classes i.e.: yoga cardio equipment. Instruction.
- There
are already several fitness centres or gyms in town. I believe money would be better spent on an indoor field house
with the option of adding a fitness centre in the future. If there is a high level of people saying they'd like a fitness
centre, have them make a financial commitment. Just because people say they'd like to have one doesn't mean they'll use
it.
- Let's
not compete with already existing fitness centres.
- Courts
for volleyball/basketball/badminton etc. Climbing wall could be a part of this? Indoor walking/running track?
Place for the yoga/zumba people to rent if they want to.
- There
are enough private fitness centres in Taber.
- Private
business should handle fitness centre needs.
- Free
public fitness area, maybe outside?
- Gym
membership packages ex. gym, pool, family activities Options: include classes such as women only, children, families
Provide/encourage a place where it is comfortable to work out.
Provide programs/classes focused on overweight children, teens, adults provide a variety of different body workouts
throughout the day.
Large areas that are divided/separated to allow private/comfortable atmosphere
- studio
space for fitness classes/renting indoor walking path good locker room/bathrooms/showers
- Indoor
field house would allow more activities for kids.
-A
community fitness facility has a different feel that private facilities and seems to do a better job at taking into account
the variety of ages etc. in the community that might want to use it.
89 (100.0%): no opinion
12 | P a g e
no
opinion
Indoor Fieldhouse
51 (38.9%): no opinion
no opinion
27 (20.6%): indoor play structures included
43 (32.8%): fitness centre included
58 (44.3%): indoor walking track included
25 (19.1%): climbing wall included
37 (28.2%): multi-sport indoor
fields/courts included
indoor play
structure included
fitness centre
included
indoor walking track
included
climbing wall
included
multi-sport indoor
field/courts
included
Other ideas for Indoor Fieldhouse
- Best
idea
- None.
We are too old.
- multi-sport
- Probably
fields and courts too
most expensive new rec facility, but also would easily be most used new facility. I realize its a huge financial commitment
so build it in stages. Build it with multi-sport fields/courts and walking track with the ability to add fitness centre, play structures
and climbing wall.
- Fitness
- Indoor
centre could be here to
soccer. ball hockey, lacrosse, any other indoor sport
- Enough
- Waste
-I
fitness centres in Taber
of money!
think if you're building something like this, build another rink attached to it!! We need more ice!!!
13 | P a g e
Mountain Bike Trails
83 (62.4%): no opinion
no opinion
24 (18.0%): parking area for unloading and loading
32 (24.1%): signs indicating trails, distances and current
location along trail
24 (18.0%): connected to walking/bike trails in town
37 (27.8%): create and maintain a trail system near MD Park
parking area for
unloading and loading
signs indicating trails,
distances and current
location along the trail
connect to walking/bike
trails I town
create and maintain a
trail system near MD
Park
0
15
30
45
60
70
Other Ideas for Mountain Bike Trails
- Do
not connect to walking path.
- There
are already existing trails through the garbage dump that just need maintaining or just add to the existing. Could also
include a jump park or a pump track
- MD
Park area would be ideal
Past research has indicated that interest in an Indoor Walking Track is very high. We are searching for
ideas to accommodate an Indoor Walking Track if an indoor fieldhouse is not built. Please list any ideas
you may have below.
-I
think this would be a really nice idea, but I'm not sure where it could go.
- Very
- You
- At
much in favor or an indoor walking track but don't have any real ideas sorry!
have no facility to accommodate this. Build the fieldhouse.
fieldhouse
- Again
make it accessible to seniors
- I'm
in agreement to an indoor walking track, but where - I can't say. So it has to be in a new building with other activities in it
also.
-I
would like to see it included in an existing structure.
- Outside
- Build
the ice surface boards of the large ice. Rubber track.
it with indoor field house or not at all.
- Accommodate
- Existing
young and old
community gym suffices
- Don't
have any constructive ideas, just think nit would go over very well in Taber. Have rules about children being with an
adult etc.
- lots
-A
of indoor walking tracks are utilized in arenas. i.e.: Carstairs, Alberta
covered sidewalk section for winter use and enclosed - possibly between schools so students needing to walk to a different
school to catch a bus could also use
- open
up auditorium for walking-utilize rink space/ice surface for oval path use gymnastics building
you for letting people use the civic centre for winter walking.
- Thank
-A
good idea... It should be a large enough multipurpose facility to justify the cost.
Indoor Walking Track
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81 (100.0%): no opinion
no
opinion
Please choose UP TO FIVE recreation projects your household feels The Town of Taber should make
a priority.
Number of participants: 124
34 (27.4%): Upgrade/enhance the Arena- Large Ice
Upgrade/enhance Arena – Large Ice
32 (25.8%): Upgrade/enhance the Arena -Small Ice
Upgrade/enhance Arena- Small Ice
23 (18.5%): Construct an Amphitheatre/Outdoor Stage in
Construct Amphitheatre/Outdoor
Stage in Confederation Park
Confederation Park
44 (35.5%): Create a Bike Path System
11 (8.9%): Upgrade/enhance the Ball diamonds at Ken
McDonald Memorial Sport Complex
17 (13.7%): Construct a Climbing Wall/Facility
44 (35.5%): Upgrade/enhance the Community Centre
Auditorium
25 (20.2%): Construct a Fitness Centre
33 (26.6%): Construct an Indoor Fieldhouse
49 (39.5%): Construct an Indoor Walking Track
11 (8.9%): Create a Mountain Bike trail System
18 (14.5%): Upgrade/enhance the Off Leash Dog Park
Create a Bike Path System
Upgrade/enhance Ball DiamondsKMSC
Construct a Climbing Wall/Facility
Upgrade/enhance Community Centre
Auditorium
Construct a Fitness Centre
Construct an Indoor Fieldhouse
Construct an Indoor Walking Track
Create a Mountain Bike Trail System
Upgrade/enhance Off Leash Dog Park
Upgrade/enhance Playgrounds
37 (29.8%): Upgrade/enhance Playgrounds
46 (37.1%): Upgrade/enhance the Swimming Pool
5 (4.0%): Upgrade/enhance the Track & Field Oval
52 (41.9%): Upgrade/enhance the Walking Trails
15 | P a g e
Upgrade/enhance Swimming Pool
Upgrade enhance Track & Field Oval
Upgrade/enhance Walking trails
APPENDIX F: RECREATION MASTER PLAN OPEN HOUSE
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Recreation Master Plan Workshop – The Reveal
Minutes, March 2, 2016
Attendees
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•
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Organization
Graham Abela
Leanne Friesen
Ray Sheen
Garth Mouland
Mark Garner
Sid Tams
TCAPS
Taber Mixed Slow Pitch/Minor Ball
Citizen
Citizen
Chamber of Commerce/Cornfest
Citizen
Town Council
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Mayor Henk de Vlieger
Councillor Prokop
Councillor Strojwas
Councillor Sparks
Councillor Popadynetz
Recreation Board
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Luke Wyna
Danielle Hansen
Facilitators
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Greg Birch
Aline Holmen
Marnie Mouland
Scribe
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Lori Farough
Introductions and Objectives:
G. Birch opened the workshop at 7:08 PM and introduced the Town of Taber team of
facilitators. Mr. Birch provided information on the background of the Recreation Master Plan
process to date stating that the last official Recreation Master Plan document was compiled
in 1985.
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
March 2, 2016
Page 1
Mr. Birch reported that the Town of Taber’s Strategic Plan outlines the need for a new
Recreation Master Plan in one of its strategic initiatives: “to improve the quality of life for Town
residents and, following a Recreation Master Plan, invest in the Town’s recreation facilities
and opportunities.” Based on that, Council had asked that a Recreation Master Plan be put in
place to set priorities when it comes to decisions and funding. It will offer Council a blueprint
to accomplishing goals in recreation for the Town of Taber.
Council had asked for a new Recreation Master Plan to be developed in house and this had
now been done. He reviewed the tasks completed to date including a facility inventory, 2
workshops, a user-group survey, and a household survey. He said the process had evolved
as the in-house team learned along the way. Mr. Birch asked that attendees make sure they
review a copy of the executive summary available at the sign-in table which forms a part of
these minutes. Mr. Birch then introduced A. Holmen to provide a review of the process.
Review of Process:
Ms. Holmen explained that the process to date has been completed in-house. Council made
a request to the Recreation Board and to Administration for a new Recreation Master Plan.
The objective is to prioritize Council spending in areas of recreation.
A. Holmen stated that the process began with an inventory of facilities and programs that are
currently in use. Together with user group representatives at the first workshop and through
the first survey the project team reviewed existing general positives of facilities and programs
currently offered, and also explored where facilities and programs might be enhanced. It was
discovered after the first survey process that some key details were missing because of the
way some of the questions were worded, a second workshop was held and a more detailed
second survey was taken. The second survey was a targeted survey of specific demographics
sent to a smaller group of people.
A. Holmen also said that with the results of the information gathered in the workshops and
through the surveys conducted together with the Recreation Board, Administration is now
ready to complete a draft Recreation Master Plan to be taken to Council for their approval.
Review of the Results
M. Mouland made a short reference to the workshops but said she would focus on the two
surveys. She then provided a quick overview of the first survey. The survey asked what types
of recreational activities people participated in, their level of satisfaction with what is currently
available, whether or not people left town for recreational opportunities and, if so, why. It also
asked what priorities the citizens of Taber and area have for recreation facility enhancement
and development.
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
March 2, 2016
Page 2
After assessing the first survey results it was decided that further detail was required as to the
specific improvements that participants noted and give a better understanding of the “wants”
of the community. A second survey was designed to assess specific facility development
desires among a random sample of community members. A limited number of surveys were
conducted to minimize cost and to get a more detailed look into particular demographics
based on the Town’s 2015 census. Despite that effort, Ms. Mouland said that the responses
had an over representation of seniors and that should be recognized when using the results.
Ms. Mouland discussed the Executive Summary that was provided and the related outcomes.
Discussion
The following topics were discussed by those in attendance:
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•
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Existing sponsorship program
Local fundraising efforts seem very successful
Recreation Board looking into raising funds to lower user-costs
Questions on how the statistics were tabulated
Older generation more willing to pay with higher taxes/user fees, younger generation
is unable to make that commitment
The entire community and all of the user groups were given the same opportunity to
respond
The Recreation Master Plan should also include successes
There is a need for the Town of Taber and local service clubs to work together as
partners when raising funds
The Recreation Master Plan is viewed as a prioritized shopping list for elected officials
when it comes to facilities and programs for recreation
Finalize Plan
G. Birch expressed that this is the final Open House to review the draft plan process and
summarize the results with the public. Mr. Birch thanked the participants for their valued
assistance throughout this process and explained that the Recreation Master Plan should be
prepared to take to Council for their Regular Meeting of March 29, 2016. Once approved this
document should be a living breathing document which can be updated more often and
changed yearly as needs change in the community.
The Recreation Master Plan Workshop Reveal Meeting was adjourned at 8:27 PM
Recreation Master Plan Workshop
March 2, 2016
Page 3
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Special thanks to those who have helped in the process of creating this
document and plan:
Bradon Valgardson
Aline Holmen
Marnie Mouland
Greg Birch
Meghan Brennan
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