Strategic Plan

After extensive public consultation, the Park Board has a new Strategic Plan for 2005-2010.

The Strategic Plan is a high level reference document that includes a mission and sets out priorities, values and direction for our organization. It helps frame policies as well as linking and informing the work plans of all our divisions and services.

In 2000, the Park Board adopted a Strategic Plan which laid out the organization's values and priorities to help us serve Vancouverites better. A review of that plan began in early 2004 to refresh it for the future. Commissioners, staff and stakeholders were asked for their ideas and input. Through this process a draft plan was developed which was reviewed further.

The new plan represents the collective ideas and vision of the Board and staff, with guidance from Park Board partners, stakeholders and the general public. While most of the everyday work we are doing today - from keeping our parks clean to providing a wide range of recreational and leisure activities - will continue, the goals and long-term vision of the organization will be guided by this document, ensuring we stay relevant, that we manage our resources wisely and that we deliver on our mission. Five clear strategic directions are laid out:

Greening the Park Board

• Integrate sustainability concepts into the design, construction and maintenance of parks
• Advance the use of green building and facility technologies
• Build on current corporate greening practices and policies
• Advocate for a healthy urban environment

Engaging People

• Develop strategies for broader participation
• Make parks and recreation universally accessible
• Advocate for wellness
• Support active living
• Promote the arts in everyday life

Working Together

• Develop and implement a public involvement process
• Advance partnership agreements
• Expand community partnerships
• Strategic alliances

Managing Resources

• Maintain fiscal responsibility
• Increase the transparency of Park Board sources, allocation and use of funds
• Develop and implement comprehensive sustainable fundraising programs with community partners, all levels of government and the not-for-profit and private sectors, including charities and foundations
• Build an organization that supports risk-taking, creativity, continual learning and innovative ideas

Meeting Future Challenges

• Plan for long-term renewal of park and recreation facilities
• Assess recreation needs
• Expand services to accommodate population growth
• Welcome the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games

The new Mission Statement is included: "Provide, preserve and advocate for parks and recreation services to benefit people, communities and the environment" along with a new slogan: "Lively and diverse by nature."

With this valuable planning tool, we can look forward to an exciting five years of continued expansion of our services, a broadening of our sustainability practices and renewal of parks and facilities.

To have a copy of the Strategic Plan mailed directly to you, please email us a request.

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