Chill out, man
The board passed a resolution to ask the RDOS to transfer an additional $18,000 from the arena reserve to cover the additional costs to replace the arena’s chiller.
Recreation manager Carol Sheridan said the chiller (refrigeration plant equipment) has reached the end of its lifespan and needs replacing.
“If the chiller fails during the season, it would bring the operation to a half for a minimum of six weeks, which would be a disservice and financial disaster for the society,” she noted.
The approved 2014 budget included $50,000 for the replacement cost, however, the successful bid for the project came in at $68,000 (the lowest bid).
Sun Fun staff return
Four of five Sun Fun staff are returning for another season.
Welcome back Daylene Antunes, Cam Cia, Tim Grimard and Kiera Heinrich.
Blake Miller Yuckin is the new addition to the team that will provide lots of fun for kids this summer.
Conference beneficial
Recreation supervisor Katie Eaton and recreation manager Carol Sheridan learned a great deal during a recreation conference they attended in Kelowna last month.
Eaton said she learned about leadership, programming and health.
“I feel I’ve learned some new skills when it comes to delegation and trusting of others. We need to truly see others, trust them and empower them to be the best they can be.”
Mark your calendar
Oliver Parks and Recreation is gearing up for a number of upcoming events.
The annual junior triathalon takes place in the community park on Saturday, May 31 from 8:30-11:30 am. Volunteers are needed to help with transition, water stations and the finish line.
The Oliver Half-Ironman is coming on June 1, and the Father’s Day slo-pitch tournament happens June 14-15.
Canada Day breakfast is planned for Tuesday, July 1 from 8:30-10:30 am. Volunteers are needed to flip pancakes.
And the big one – the Oliver Sunshine Festival takes place on July 12-13. So far, there has been a good response from vendors.
Diamond overhauled
With consultation with Big League Experience and V-Line Construction, parks staff have completed an overhaul of ball diamond 4.
The infield area was re-sodded, therefore, it will be closed to the public until the end of June.
Hike and bike trail
Recreation manager Carol Sheridan met with the Ministry of Environment and regional district staff for a thorough inspection of the hike and bike trail.
The inspection covered from McAlpine bridge to Road 9, which is the portion of the dike that the RDOS has entered into an agreement with the ministry to manage (as part of the regional trail network).
Sheridan said it is unclear at this time whether Parks and Recreation will have any responsibility for the trail.
Shower time
Parks and Recreation is helping out while Loose Bay campground is without water for the time being.
It is allowing workers to use the shower facilities in the Oliver arena until the pool opens.
