Oak Bay Parks and Recreation finished 2014 under its budget by 10 per cent.
The drop-in admissions were higher than expected and there was a significant increase in after-school registrations and summer camps were well attended. The Parks division also received BCHydro ReGreen and Habitat Stewardship grants last year. The 2015 budget request is an increase of just over four per cent over last year’s budget.
The commission is part of the first budget discussions in Oak Bay when the estimates committee meets March 26 at 5:30 p.m. in council chambers, 2167 Oak Bay Ave.
Bald Eagles to play Camas Day party
The annual event to celebrate camas in Oak Bay will again feature a musical boost.
Oak Bay’s Bald Eagles are slated to entertain May 3 as the Friends of Uplands Park host the event from 1 to 4 p.m. at Cattle Point.
Bowker walkway needs upgrade
Staff will work up options and cost estimates for improvements to the Bowker Creek pathway between Oak Bay High and Hampshire Road.
The parks and recreation commission members feel the bridge is problematic for those on wheels of any form and needs to be widened to three metres for safety.
Scouts stop sailing through rec department
The Garry Oak Sea Scouts and Recreation Oak Bay are no longer in cahoots. The groups have parted ways and Oak Bay Rec has created a new relationship through B.C. Sailing Association to ensure youth sailing camps will be available this summer.
Rummage nets cash
The Monterey Recreation annual rummage sale late last month raised $8,953 for the Oak Bay Senior’s Activity Association.
Triathlon eliminated from contention
The parks and recreation commission denied a commercial triathlon application for Willows Beach in July.
The Eliminator Traithlon lost money last year but did provide a venue for a charity, the commission found, but after discussion it opted not to recommend the event be approved.
cvanreeuwyk@oakbaynews.com