Model of Community Governance
'An ongoing experiment in an alternate delivery of community services. Developed by the community for the community'
The unique Model of Community Governance at Parkgate was developed by the community and spearheaded by the Seymour Community Services Society (at the time a local non-profit society providing services in the area for 17 years), now known as Parkgate Community Services (May 2004). The 'Community Governance Model' adopted by Council; whereby the Society and the North Vancouver Recreation Commission operate the facility in partnership; is the first of its kind for a municipally owned facility of such size and scope of service.
The unique operating agreement combines the expertise existing within the community and the North Vancouver Recreation Commission. The agreement is beneficial to both parties and most importantly shared management allows citizens the opportunity to play an essential role in the Centre's operations and in the establishment of programs and services that directly meets community needs. Parkgate Community Services is responsible for the delivery of all programs and services (with the exception of fitness) to the community and the North Vancouver Recreation Commission is responsible for the fitness, maintenance services and core staffing of the facility.
Parkgate Community Services held a Community Governance Forum at Parkgate Community Centre on September 19, 2002. Various community services organizations, associations and community members attended the forum. From the discussions and information exchanged at this forum the following document was compiled.
Community Governance Forum.pdf