To the editor: Re: "Commissioner responds to OneCard critic, July 25.
It's important for community centre users to understand that the park board's OneCard will not be accepted at all community centre facilities on Sept. 1, despite park board advertising and recent public statements from commissioner Niki Sharma to the contrary. The fact is several communities across the city voted not to accept it until the larger issues relating to the Joint Operating Agreement are rectified through fair and transparent negotiations.
Based on the information presented to communities, OneCard appears to be part of the Park Board's continued attempt to centralize money and decisionmaking. To minimize the role of local non-profit community centre societies and our ability to respond to local community needs; all in an attempt to create "cookie cutter" recreation centres.
This most recent development doesn't change anything for individuals and families of all income levels. Community association operated programs will still be available to all - just as they always have been - at a price that all families can afford.
Since July 1, the park board has continually misled the public, saying that its rebranded flexipass (OneCard) will be used to access all facilities and programs this fall. Staff are also misleading patrons at community centres by telling people they must surrender their current passes in favour of the OneCard. Neither is true.
This is an important time for community centre programming. Fall schedules are coming out and families across the city will be looking to sign kids up for after school programs and classes; the majority of which are funded and operated by local non-profit community associations. Make sure you have the right information. Contact your local community association so you know for sure that the pass you buy will work at your community centre or to inquire about assistance programs for those with lower incomes. Robert Lockhart.
Robert Lockhart.
Kerrisdale Community Centre
