Beaver Valley users of Trail recreation facilities can now look forward to at least five years of certainty after a new recreation agreement was announced on Wednesday.
The City of Trail and the Beaver Valley Parks and Recreation Committee reached a five-year agreement, effective Nov. 1, that ends a period of contention and uncertainty for recreation users and officials on both sides.
According to a City of Trail press release, B.V. Rec will contribute $125,000 annually to allow Beaver Valley residents to utilize Trail Parks and Recreation facilities, programs and services for the lower-tiered fees outlined in the Trail Resident Program.
“Council is very pleased to have a long-term recreation funding agreement in place that creates certainty and stability for both jurisdictions and their residents,” said City of Trail Mayor Mike Martin in the release.
B.V. Rec’s annual fee remains unchanged from the 2015 one-year agreement, which was extended by two months by mutual agreement to allow both parties to take the necessary time to work out the details that ultimately resulted in this agreement.
“We believe that all residents should have access to a healthy lifestyle through affordable and quality recreation,” says Ali Grieve, B.V. Rec Director.
“Entering into a longer term recreation agreement with our neighbours allows for continued access to some really great programming, facilities, and services. This helps to enrich the wellness experience for so many and we are thrilled to be part of it.”
The last long-term agreement between Trail and Beaver Valley ended at the beginning of 2014. Beaver Valley established a reimbursement program for its residents. Last September’s one-year deal saw Beaver Valley contribute $125,000 for the term.
“Regional collaboration continues to be a top priority for the City of Trail,” continues Martin. “We look forward to growing the relationships we’ve built with B.V. Rec and the Village Warfield as we remain committed to pursuing agreements with our other regional partners.”
The City of Trail and the Village of Warfield agreed to a 66-month recreation /library services agreement in July 2015.
Area B residents are using a reimbursement program through their district on a trial basis for 2016.
The City of Rossland and Trail failed to reach an agreement last November.
