NEWS | REC-REATE Project – Phase Two Rod Brind’Amour Redevelopment Alternative Approval Process Results
A total of 1,813 electors (5.5%) submitted forms opposing the borrowing bylaw.
Campbell River, BC – The Strathcona Regional District (SRD) initiated an Alternative Approval Process (AAP) on July 25, 2025, seeking elector approval for Bylaw No. 607, which proposed borrowing up to $57.1 million to support the redevelopment of the Rod Brind’Amour Arena at the Strathcona Gardens Recreation Complex.
Over the two-month long process, which closed on September 22, 2025, a total of 1,813 electors (5.5%) submitted forms opposing the borrowing bylaw. Under the AAP process, elector approval is obtained if fewer than 10 percent of eligible voters—33,012 across Campbell River and Area D—submit forms in opposition.
At its October 22 meeting, the SRD Board of Directors reviewed the results and took time to reflect on the strong community response. Participation in this phase of the REC-REATE Project was significantly higher than in Phase One, and the feedback received showed a wide range of perspectives and ideas from residents.
“We’re grateful to everyone who took the time to submit the response forms,” said SRD Chair Mark Baker. “The feedback we received shows how deeply people care about Strathcona Gardens and its future. We’ve heard a mix of opinions, and we’ll be taking the time needed to carefully review our options before moving forward.”
The REC-REATE Project was created to renew and modernize the aging Strathcona Gardens Recreation Complex — a facility that has served the community for decades. The project builds on almost ten years of community engagement, planning, and design work, all focused on creating an inclusive, multi-purpose facility that supports accessibility, health, wellness, and sport for everyone.
As part of this continued careful approach, and following adoption of the borrowing bylaw, the Board of Directors has chosen to take additional time to thoughtfully consider the feedback received during the AAP process. This will help ensure the project provides the greatest long-term value for the community while balancing current and future needs for arena space.
To stay informed about this project and other SRD news, visit srd.ca, follow the SRD on social media, or subscribe for email updates on the website.
For more information about the Strathcona Gardens REC-REATE Project and to view detailed design concepts, visit RecreateSG.ca.
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MEDIA CONTACT – Dave Leitch, SRD Chief Administrative Officer (250) 830-6703 | dleitch@srd.ca