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Page 6

Alternatives and Future Changes

The parks prograin is in a state of flux as a result of several factors which may result in-
future changes ta tha Long Range Plan and budget forecasts.

1. Decisions on several new park proposals may be made with possible land
acquisition casts and, longer term, development and operating costs should any

new sites be approved.

2. The proposed Lower Mainiand Major Parks Pian may or may not establish new
ragional sites or recreation roles. This uncertainty is compounded by the
Province’s drat: Parks Plan 90 which suggests a declining provincia! role in

gation services to Greater Vancouver residents.

The idea of a Greater Vancouver Open Space Trust or Foundation Is under
consideration; its objective would be to assist open spaca acquisition Including
regional parks and couid possibly provide assistance for development of recreation

and special purpose facilities.

A concerted effort at significantly incraasing revenue from park operations will be
assessed in 1991 with a start-up effort in 1992. Kh should aim at moderating growth

in operating costs. .

These mean a variety of altarnative future outcomes are possible based on the above.
Two approaches are possible to limit operating costs resulting from the Year 2000
Development Program and rapid growth in park visitation. The development program
can be slowad ta a degree, though substantial delays and changes will impact other
GVRD and municipal commitments, outside funding support and the perceived equity
of the program. The developmem schedule reflects a best offort at achieving a fair
distribution of regional park recreation opportunities across the region.

An alternate approach is, instead, to consider basic revenue possibilities including
park entrance and paridng fees as a means If needed to continue the relatively modest
Year 2000 Program. Such action requires a great deal of consideration and public
discussion as such faes are not usual in this region although many other like ~
jurisdictions in North America do use entrance fees and service charges.