Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum
Consultation has concluded

On April 5, 2025 eligible electors from the City of Parksville, Town of Qualicum Beach and Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) Electoral Areas (EA) E, F, G and H voted no to borrowing up to $30 million to expand Ravensong Aquatic Centre.
Want to learn more?
- To see the referendum results visit: rdn.bc.ca/2025Ravensong-results.
- Register and subscribe to this project for email updates.
- Missed attending one of our information sessions? You can see the information boards that were shared at the events or watch the virtual session video.
- Check out the Background Documents that has information on the proposed expansion, referendum and more.
- Visit the project FAQ's.
- Learn more about the history of the Ravensong Aquatic Centre expansion project and how we got to referendum here.
- Ask us a question using the Q & A tab below.
On April 5, 2025 eligible electors from the City of Parksville, Town of Qualicum Beach and Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) Electoral Areas (EA) E, F, G and H voted no to borrowing up to $30 million to expand Ravensong Aquatic Centre.
Want to learn more?
- To see the referendum results visit: rdn.bc.ca/2025Ravensong-results.
- Register and subscribe to this project for email updates.
- Missed attending one of our information sessions? You can see the information boards that were shared at the events or watch the virtual session video.
- Check out the Background Documents that has information on the proposed expansion, referendum and more.
- Visit the project FAQ's.
- Learn more about the history of the Ravensong Aquatic Centre expansion project and how we got to referendum here.
- Ask us a question using the Q & A tab below.
Do you have a question about the Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion project referendum that hasn't been answered in our FAQ's?
If so, please ask us here.
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Share In reviewing the preliminary results I am hoping that you can also supply the following information: The number of eligible voters in each area; An analysis of the both the advance polls and the mail in votes as to what the breakdown of the votes in the respective areas; If this information is going to be in the Official results on the 9th I can get them then. Thank you, Rudi Widdershoven on Facebook Share In reviewing the preliminary results I am hoping that you can also supply the following information: The number of eligible voters in each area; An analysis of the both the advance polls and the mail in votes as to what the breakdown of the votes in the respective areas; If this information is going to be in the Official results on the 9th I can get them then. Thank you, Rudi Widdershoven on Twitter Share In reviewing the preliminary results I am hoping that you can also supply the following information: The number of eligible voters in each area; An analysis of the both the advance polls and the mail in votes as to what the breakdown of the votes in the respective areas; If this information is going to be in the Official results on the 9th I can get them then. Thank you, Rudi Widdershoven on Linkedin Email In reviewing the preliminary results I am hoping that you can also supply the following information: The number of eligible voters in each area; An analysis of the both the advance polls and the mail in votes as to what the breakdown of the votes in the respective areas; If this information is going to be in the Official results on the 9th I can get them then. Thank you, Rudi Widdershoven link
In reviewing the preliminary results I am hoping that you can also supply the following information: The number of eligible voters in each area; An analysis of the both the advance polls and the mail in votes as to what the breakdown of the votes in the respective areas; If this information is going to be in the Official results on the 9th I can get them then. Thank you, Rudi Widdershoven
madronarudi asked 3 months agoBelow is a breakdown of eligible electors by area (Table 1) and the breakdown of the origin of the voters for mail ballots (Table 2) for the Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum.
We are not able to provide a breakdown of the origin of the voters in the advanced polls as voted ballots were totaled together. Additionally, we are not able to provide a breakdown of 'yes' or 'no' votes by each voting area for the advanced polls and mail ballots.
Table 1
Voting Area
Total Eligible Electors (including new registrations)
Electoral Area E
6,238
Electoral Area F
6,956
Electoral Area G
7,365
Electoral Area H
3,983
Parksville
12,481
Qualicum Beach
8,355
Total 45,384 Table 2
Mail Ballot Voting (Origin of Voters)
Total
Electoral Area E
158
Electoral Area F
35
Electoral Area G
38
Electoral Area H
21
Parksville
52
Qualicum Beach
74
Total 378 -
Share Since it looks as though the funding will not be voted in for a pool expansion, alternatively can taxes be raised slightly to save the money up for the pool expansion so we can see this in the future without such a large loan? Perhaps charging the seniors for pool time could be used to save for this expansion? on Facebook Share Since it looks as though the funding will not be voted in for a pool expansion, alternatively can taxes be raised slightly to save the money up for the pool expansion so we can see this in the future without such a large loan? Perhaps charging the seniors for pool time could be used to save for this expansion? on Twitter Share Since it looks as though the funding will not be voted in for a pool expansion, alternatively can taxes be raised slightly to save the money up for the pool expansion so we can see this in the future without such a large loan? Perhaps charging the seniors for pool time could be used to save for this expansion? on Linkedin Email Since it looks as though the funding will not be voted in for a pool expansion, alternatively can taxes be raised slightly to save the money up for the pool expansion so we can see this in the future without such a large loan? Perhaps charging the seniors for pool time could be used to save for this expansion? link
Since it looks as though the funding will not be voted in for a pool expansion, alternatively can taxes be raised slightly to save the money up for the pool expansion so we can see this in the future without such a large loan? Perhaps charging the seniors for pool time could be used to save for this expansion?
kimberleywright101 asked 3 months agoThank you for your interest and suggestions. Tuesday, April 22, 2025 the RDN Board will receive the official results and provide direction for the next steps.
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Share When do we know results? on Facebook Share When do we know results? on Twitter Share When do we know results? on Linkedin Email When do we know results? link
When do we know results?
George Huml asked 3 months agoThe results have now been shared on the RDN website, social media pages and on this project page. You can view them at: rdn.bc.ca/2025Ravensong-results
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Share How best to learn what the results of the Referendum is as soon as possible? on Facebook Share How best to learn what the results of the Referendum is as soon as possible? on Twitter Share How best to learn what the results of the Referendum is as soon as possible? on Linkedin Email How best to learn what the results of the Referendum is as soon as possible? link
How best to learn what the results of the Referendum is as soon as possible?
madronarudi asked 3 months agoVotes will be counted, and preliminary results will be posted on the RDN website rdn.bc.ca/Ravensong-Referendum-Results as soon as possible after the close of voting (8 p.m.) on general voting day Saturday, April 5, 2025. They will also be added to the News and Highlights on the RDN homepage and shared on social media.
Official results will be announced by 4 p.m. on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.
We have also shared this information in the FAQ section of the project page.
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Share will there be a gym added with this expansion? i would love to be able to work out then hit the pool and sauna afterwards all in one place. it is desperately needed in the community. on Facebook Share will there be a gym added with this expansion? i would love to be able to work out then hit the pool and sauna afterwards all in one place. it is desperately needed in the community. on Twitter Share will there be a gym added with this expansion? i would love to be able to work out then hit the pool and sauna afterwards all in one place. it is desperately needed in the community. on Linkedin Email will there be a gym added with this expansion? i would love to be able to work out then hit the pool and sauna afterwards all in one place. it is desperately needed in the community. link
will there be a gym added with this expansion? i would love to be able to work out then hit the pool and sauna afterwards all in one place. it is desperately needed in the community.
Sadieruss asked 3 months agoA fitness centre addition was considered during the design planning and community engagement and was presented to the Regional District of Nanaimo Board as one of the options to be selected for the proposed facility expansion however, this option was ultimately not chosen in order to keep the project costs lower. The design that was selected does include structural aspects that would support a potential fitness centre expansion above the changeroom, administrative, lobby and multi-purpose portion of the facility for future considerations.
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Share This is a repeat of an earlier question this morning, which you can delete and instead reply to this one. Sorry for earlier typos and the missed Carbon footprint comparison you should find of interest. ------- My question below elicited a response which I appreciate. Some follow up: Tax Impact: while we see these numbers, what is not clear right now is the current (2024) tax contribution to the current facility? It might help your case to show that figure as well. The Emission abatement: My original concerns on the questions below looked at the average cost of ~$1300/tonne to get all the possible GHG emission reduction (around 325 tonne per year). I now have looked more deeply and find 94% of those reductions are at a reasonable cost ($0.8 million) for about $115/tonne after energy system operational cost reduction. This is about the rate for carbon credits or CCS and acceptable in current government "climate cost" thinking and credit accounting. This is all within my sphere of GHG consulting. However, you then plan to spend and added ~$5.5 million (the number is 5.2 or 6.2 in two different charts). This added spending will only gain another 19 tonne reduction per year (about the average annual carbon footprint of a single Canadian) and after the loan costs per year and the operational cost savings this works out to an insane ~$20,000/tonne every year. No emission tax credit (even if gained) will compensate for that. This information has been forwarded to the Town Council. Whatever the outcome of the referendum, if it is a positive one, are the sharing entities still allowed to review these kinds of cost elements? on Facebook Share This is a repeat of an earlier question this morning, which you can delete and instead reply to this one. Sorry for earlier typos and the missed Carbon footprint comparison you should find of interest. ------- My question below elicited a response which I appreciate. Some follow up: Tax Impact: while we see these numbers, what is not clear right now is the current (2024) tax contribution to the current facility? It might help your case to show that figure as well. The Emission abatement: My original concerns on the questions below looked at the average cost of ~$1300/tonne to get all the possible GHG emission reduction (around 325 tonne per year). I now have looked more deeply and find 94% of those reductions are at a reasonable cost ($0.8 million) for about $115/tonne after energy system operational cost reduction. This is about the rate for carbon credits or CCS and acceptable in current government "climate cost" thinking and credit accounting. This is all within my sphere of GHG consulting. However, you then plan to spend and added ~$5.5 million (the number is 5.2 or 6.2 in two different charts). This added spending will only gain another 19 tonne reduction per year (about the average annual carbon footprint of a single Canadian) and after the loan costs per year and the operational cost savings this works out to an insane ~$20,000/tonne every year. No emission tax credit (even if gained) will compensate for that. This information has been forwarded to the Town Council. Whatever the outcome of the referendum, if it is a positive one, are the sharing entities still allowed to review these kinds of cost elements? on Twitter Share This is a repeat of an earlier question this morning, which you can delete and instead reply to this one. Sorry for earlier typos and the missed Carbon footprint comparison you should find of interest. ------- My question below elicited a response which I appreciate. Some follow up: Tax Impact: while we see these numbers, what is not clear right now is the current (2024) tax contribution to the current facility? It might help your case to show that figure as well. The Emission abatement: My original concerns on the questions below looked at the average cost of ~$1300/tonne to get all the possible GHG emission reduction (around 325 tonne per year). I now have looked more deeply and find 94% of those reductions are at a reasonable cost ($0.8 million) for about $115/tonne after energy system operational cost reduction. This is about the rate for carbon credits or CCS and acceptable in current government "climate cost" thinking and credit accounting. This is all within my sphere of GHG consulting. However, you then plan to spend and added ~$5.5 million (the number is 5.2 or 6.2 in two different charts). This added spending will only gain another 19 tonne reduction per year (about the average annual carbon footprint of a single Canadian) and after the loan costs per year and the operational cost savings this works out to an insane ~$20,000/tonne every year. No emission tax credit (even if gained) will compensate for that. This information has been forwarded to the Town Council. Whatever the outcome of the referendum, if it is a positive one, are the sharing entities still allowed to review these kinds of cost elements? on Linkedin Email This is a repeat of an earlier question this morning, which you can delete and instead reply to this one. Sorry for earlier typos and the missed Carbon footprint comparison you should find of interest. ------- My question below elicited a response which I appreciate. Some follow up: Tax Impact: while we see these numbers, what is not clear right now is the current (2024) tax contribution to the current facility? It might help your case to show that figure as well. The Emission abatement: My original concerns on the questions below looked at the average cost of ~$1300/tonne to get all the possible GHG emission reduction (around 325 tonne per year). I now have looked more deeply and find 94% of those reductions are at a reasonable cost ($0.8 million) for about $115/tonne after energy system operational cost reduction. This is about the rate for carbon credits or CCS and acceptable in current government "climate cost" thinking and credit accounting. This is all within my sphere of GHG consulting. However, you then plan to spend and added ~$5.5 million (the number is 5.2 or 6.2 in two different charts). This added spending will only gain another 19 tonne reduction per year (about the average annual carbon footprint of a single Canadian) and after the loan costs per year and the operational cost savings this works out to an insane ~$20,000/tonne every year. No emission tax credit (even if gained) will compensate for that. This information has been forwarded to the Town Council. Whatever the outcome of the referendum, if it is a positive one, are the sharing entities still allowed to review these kinds of cost elements? link
This is a repeat of an earlier question this morning, which you can delete and instead reply to this one. Sorry for earlier typos and the missed Carbon footprint comparison you should find of interest. ------- My question below elicited a response which I appreciate. Some follow up: Tax Impact: while we see these numbers, what is not clear right now is the current (2024) tax contribution to the current facility? It might help your case to show that figure as well. The Emission abatement: My original concerns on the questions below looked at the average cost of ~$1300/tonne to get all the possible GHG emission reduction (around 325 tonne per year). I now have looked more deeply and find 94% of those reductions are at a reasonable cost ($0.8 million) for about $115/tonne after energy system operational cost reduction. This is about the rate for carbon credits or CCS and acceptable in current government "climate cost" thinking and credit accounting. This is all within my sphere of GHG consulting. However, you then plan to spend and added ~$5.5 million (the number is 5.2 or 6.2 in two different charts). This added spending will only gain another 19 tonne reduction per year (about the average annual carbon footprint of a single Canadian) and after the loan costs per year and the operational cost savings this works out to an insane ~$20,000/tonne every year. No emission tax credit (even if gained) will compensate for that. This information has been forwarded to the Town Council. Whatever the outcome of the referendum, if it is a positive one, are the sharing entities still allowed to review these kinds of cost elements?
Len Flint asked 4 months agoMy question below elicited a response which I appreciate. Some follow up: Tax Impact: while we see these numbers, what is not clear right now is the current (2024) tax contribution to the current facility?
Answer: The annual tax contribution per average household in the Town of Qualicum Beach, based on the 2024 BC Housing Assessment, for the Ravensong Aquatic Centre Service was $113.48. This information is identified in the first column on the table included with the initial question and response.
It might help your case to show that figure as well. The Emission abatement: My original concerns on the questions below looked at the average cost of ~$1300/tonne to get all the possible GHG emission reduction (around 325 tonne per year). I now have looked more deeply and find 94% of those reductions are at a reasonable cost ($0.8 million) for about $115/tonne after energy system operational cost reduction. This is about the rate for carbon credits or CCS and acceptable in current government "climate cost" thinking and credit accounting. This is all within my sphere of GHG consulting. However, you then plan to spend and added ~$5.5 million (the number is 5.2 or 6.2 in two different charts). This added spending will only gain another 19 tonne reduction per year (about the average annual carbon footprint of a single Canadian) and after the loan costs per year and the operational cost savings this works out to an insane ~$20,000/tonne every year. No emission tax credit (even if gained) will compensate for that. This information has been forwarded to the Town Council. Whatever the outcome of the referendum, if it is a positive one, are the sharing entities still allowed to review these kinds of cost elements?
Answer: Yes, the cost per tCO2e abatement is high for the last emission reductions on the project. In this case, it included the measures needed to comply with the Canadian Green Building Council (CaGBC) Zero Carbon building standard, maintaining eligibility for the Federal Green and Inclusive Community Buildings funding stream of which the RDN recently received a $7 million funding contribution from the federal government for the proposed expansion project. Emission reduction measures on the project also bring value that goes beyond basic abatement cost calculations, including local electricity generation potential, improved energy efficiency, technology demonstration, use of low impact building materials, and 25% cost contingency planning, all of which are included in the $5.49 million estimate.
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Share What do I need to bring to confirm my eligibility to vote on General Voting Day? on Facebook Share What do I need to bring to confirm my eligibility to vote on General Voting Day? on Twitter Share What do I need to bring to confirm my eligibility to vote on General Voting Day? on Linkedin Email What do I need to bring to confirm my eligibility to vote on General Voting Day? link
What do I need to bring to confirm my eligibility to vote on General Voting Day?
Barbara Peyton asked 4 months agoIf you're not on the voters list, you can register at the time of voting by completing an application form. You will be asked to provide two pieces of identification that prove who you are and where you live. One of them must have your signature on it. For a list of accepted identification please see our Resident Electors FAQ sheet or visit rdn.bc.ca/Ravensong-Referendum. There are additional requirements to register as a Non-Resident Property Elector, please see our Non-Resident Property Elector FAQ sheet.
If you are already on the voters list, identification is not required.
To find out if you are on the voters list, please call 250-390-4111.
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Share Some years ago I surveyed the water temperature in the pools from Duncan to Courtenay and discovered that the temperature of Ravensong was kept a number of degrees lower than all other pools surveyed. I DON'T however know if this is still the case. At the time I was told by Ravensong staff it was because the long distance swimmers who used the pool preferred a colder temperature. From speaking with numerous people who wish to use the pool particularly post injury, illness or surgery for rehab and/or for aqua fit classes this colder water is not well received. It can make it difficult for some individuals (and particularly seniors) to partake in programs and use the pool as it's simply too cold. Has a few degrees warmer water temperature ever been part of the discussions in this new expansion, or discussed at any other time, so that more of or our citizens can get to enjoy these facilities for which they pay taxes? Perhaps Ravensong's pool temperature could be on par with facilities both north and south of us? A few degrees temperature in a pool makes a lot of difference. Thank you. on Facebook Share Some years ago I surveyed the water temperature in the pools from Duncan to Courtenay and discovered that the temperature of Ravensong was kept a number of degrees lower than all other pools surveyed. I DON'T however know if this is still the case. At the time I was told by Ravensong staff it was because the long distance swimmers who used the pool preferred a colder temperature. From speaking with numerous people who wish to use the pool particularly post injury, illness or surgery for rehab and/or for aqua fit classes this colder water is not well received. It can make it difficult for some individuals (and particularly seniors) to partake in programs and use the pool as it's simply too cold. Has a few degrees warmer water temperature ever been part of the discussions in this new expansion, or discussed at any other time, so that more of or our citizens can get to enjoy these facilities for which they pay taxes? Perhaps Ravensong's pool temperature could be on par with facilities both north and south of us? A few degrees temperature in a pool makes a lot of difference. Thank you. on Twitter Share Some years ago I surveyed the water temperature in the pools from Duncan to Courtenay and discovered that the temperature of Ravensong was kept a number of degrees lower than all other pools surveyed. I DON'T however know if this is still the case. At the time I was told by Ravensong staff it was because the long distance swimmers who used the pool preferred a colder temperature. From speaking with numerous people who wish to use the pool particularly post injury, illness or surgery for rehab and/or for aqua fit classes this colder water is not well received. It can make it difficult for some individuals (and particularly seniors) to partake in programs and use the pool as it's simply too cold. Has a few degrees warmer water temperature ever been part of the discussions in this new expansion, or discussed at any other time, so that more of or our citizens can get to enjoy these facilities for which they pay taxes? Perhaps Ravensong's pool temperature could be on par with facilities both north and south of us? A few degrees temperature in a pool makes a lot of difference. Thank you. on Linkedin Email Some years ago I surveyed the water temperature in the pools from Duncan to Courtenay and discovered that the temperature of Ravensong was kept a number of degrees lower than all other pools surveyed. I DON'T however know if this is still the case. At the time I was told by Ravensong staff it was because the long distance swimmers who used the pool preferred a colder temperature. From speaking with numerous people who wish to use the pool particularly post injury, illness or surgery for rehab and/or for aqua fit classes this colder water is not well received. It can make it difficult for some individuals (and particularly seniors) to partake in programs and use the pool as it's simply too cold. Has a few degrees warmer water temperature ever been part of the discussions in this new expansion, or discussed at any other time, so that more of or our citizens can get to enjoy these facilities for which they pay taxes? Perhaps Ravensong's pool temperature could be on par with facilities both north and south of us? A few degrees temperature in a pool makes a lot of difference. Thank you. link
Some years ago I surveyed the water temperature in the pools from Duncan to Courtenay and discovered that the temperature of Ravensong was kept a number of degrees lower than all other pools surveyed. I DON'T however know if this is still the case. At the time I was told by Ravensong staff it was because the long distance swimmers who used the pool preferred a colder temperature. From speaking with numerous people who wish to use the pool particularly post injury, illness or surgery for rehab and/or for aqua fit classes this colder water is not well received. It can make it difficult for some individuals (and particularly seniors) to partake in programs and use the pool as it's simply too cold. Has a few degrees warmer water temperature ever been part of the discussions in this new expansion, or discussed at any other time, so that more of or our citizens can get to enjoy these facilities for which they pay taxes? Perhaps Ravensong's pool temperature could be on par with facilities both north and south of us? A few degrees temperature in a pool makes a lot of difference. Thank you.
Genelle asked 4 months agoThe B.C. Guidelines for Pool Operations are regulations set by the BC Health Department and dictate the standards for pool water temperatures in public swimming pools. The regulation requires that the temperature of the pool water must not exceed 37 degrees Celsius, except for a hot tub, which must not exceed 40 degrees Celsius. The regulation also states that the maximum allowable temperature for pools protects the public from heat stroke or other potential heat/exertion risks, especially in activities of higher exertion such as length swimming and aquafit. Ravensong Aquatic Centre is a community pool and not a competitive pool by nature and is also not used solely for competitive swimming.
The pool is utilized by several different user categories such as public swimming, length swimming, physiotherapy, swimming lessons and aquafit. To balance comfort with the provision of safety, the Ravensong Aquatic Centre current main pool temperature is maintained at 29 degrees Celsius. If the referendum passes and the facility expansion proceeds, there will be further discussion and designs regarding the pool temperatures which will be based on programming needs, mechanical efficiencies, patron comfort and safety. There would be the ability to have different pool temperatures set for the newer pool addition than the current pool tank. However, there will be consideration of the programming planned for the pool to ensure that we maintain a safe environment for all users.
If you are looking specifically for a warmer body of water while at the Ravensong Aquatic Centre, please consider using the leisure pool at the facility which is maintained at 34.5 degrees Celsius.
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Share Sorry for lengthy note. 1) The QB avg tax increase quoted in open meetings was $122 per home, or some 2.5 % of. The QB Town Council presentation gave that value rising to $310 by 2029. Even allowing for significant tax increases for other town priorities by that time, the Ravensong expansion will rise to 5% of our tax bill. Why was this not in the information sessions ? 2) The second issue is of interest to we “climate change” geeks! Current facility emissions are about 350 tonnes CO2E per year, some 2% of our QB RCI. I consult in this area and think claims of a 94% reduction may not stack up to scrutiny. The new facility power draw of some 1.8 million kWh per year translates to about 80 tonnes per year of CO2E emission not the 10 claimed. For those who might point to the use of solar panels (a sensible use of new technology) not much help there. The average life-cycle emission profile of solar panels globally is higher than the BC grid power. And if your panels are made in China, largely by coal-power…connect the dots.. 3) On the same GHG impact, the total cost of the energy upgrades will be some $5.5 million financed over 20 years. Without going over all the details it works out to ~$1,500 per tonne of CO2E abated. Quebec and California base their carbon reduction plans on emission trading and Elon Musk (OK, I don’t like him either!) sits on mountains of saleable credits at about $120-150 per tonne or 1/10th of that part of the proposed expansion costs. This is also about the same cost of sequestration. Maybe I'm missing something? Your comments appreciated. on Facebook Share Sorry for lengthy note. 1) The QB avg tax increase quoted in open meetings was $122 per home, or some 2.5 % of. The QB Town Council presentation gave that value rising to $310 by 2029. Even allowing for significant tax increases for other town priorities by that time, the Ravensong expansion will rise to 5% of our tax bill. Why was this not in the information sessions ? 2) The second issue is of interest to we “climate change” geeks! Current facility emissions are about 350 tonnes CO2E per year, some 2% of our QB RCI. I consult in this area and think claims of a 94% reduction may not stack up to scrutiny. The new facility power draw of some 1.8 million kWh per year translates to about 80 tonnes per year of CO2E emission not the 10 claimed. For those who might point to the use of solar panels (a sensible use of new technology) not much help there. The average life-cycle emission profile of solar panels globally is higher than the BC grid power. And if your panels are made in China, largely by coal-power…connect the dots.. 3) On the same GHG impact, the total cost of the energy upgrades will be some $5.5 million financed over 20 years. Without going over all the details it works out to ~$1,500 per tonne of CO2E abated. Quebec and California base their carbon reduction plans on emission trading and Elon Musk (OK, I don’t like him either!) sits on mountains of saleable credits at about $120-150 per tonne or 1/10th of that part of the proposed expansion costs. This is also about the same cost of sequestration. Maybe I'm missing something? Your comments appreciated. on Twitter Share Sorry for lengthy note. 1) The QB avg tax increase quoted in open meetings was $122 per home, or some 2.5 % of. The QB Town Council presentation gave that value rising to $310 by 2029. Even allowing for significant tax increases for other town priorities by that time, the Ravensong expansion will rise to 5% of our tax bill. Why was this not in the information sessions ? 2) The second issue is of interest to we “climate change” geeks! Current facility emissions are about 350 tonnes CO2E per year, some 2% of our QB RCI. I consult in this area and think claims of a 94% reduction may not stack up to scrutiny. The new facility power draw of some 1.8 million kWh per year translates to about 80 tonnes per year of CO2E emission not the 10 claimed. For those who might point to the use of solar panels (a sensible use of new technology) not much help there. The average life-cycle emission profile of solar panels globally is higher than the BC grid power. And if your panels are made in China, largely by coal-power…connect the dots.. 3) On the same GHG impact, the total cost of the energy upgrades will be some $5.5 million financed over 20 years. Without going over all the details it works out to ~$1,500 per tonne of CO2E abated. Quebec and California base their carbon reduction plans on emission trading and Elon Musk (OK, I don’t like him either!) sits on mountains of saleable credits at about $120-150 per tonne or 1/10th of that part of the proposed expansion costs. This is also about the same cost of sequestration. Maybe I'm missing something? Your comments appreciated. on Linkedin Email Sorry for lengthy note. 1) The QB avg tax increase quoted in open meetings was $122 per home, or some 2.5 % of. The QB Town Council presentation gave that value rising to $310 by 2029. Even allowing for significant tax increases for other town priorities by that time, the Ravensong expansion will rise to 5% of our tax bill. Why was this not in the information sessions ? 2) The second issue is of interest to we “climate change” geeks! Current facility emissions are about 350 tonnes CO2E per year, some 2% of our QB RCI. I consult in this area and think claims of a 94% reduction may not stack up to scrutiny. The new facility power draw of some 1.8 million kWh per year translates to about 80 tonnes per year of CO2E emission not the 10 claimed. For those who might point to the use of solar panels (a sensible use of new technology) not much help there. The average life-cycle emission profile of solar panels globally is higher than the BC grid power. And if your panels are made in China, largely by coal-power…connect the dots.. 3) On the same GHG impact, the total cost of the energy upgrades will be some $5.5 million financed over 20 years. Without going over all the details it works out to ~$1,500 per tonne of CO2E abated. Quebec and California base their carbon reduction plans on emission trading and Elon Musk (OK, I don’t like him either!) sits on mountains of saleable credits at about $120-150 per tonne or 1/10th of that part of the proposed expansion costs. This is also about the same cost of sequestration. Maybe I'm missing something? Your comments appreciated. link
Sorry for lengthy note. 1) The QB avg tax increase quoted in open meetings was $122 per home, or some 2.5 % of. The QB Town Council presentation gave that value rising to $310 by 2029. Even allowing for significant tax increases for other town priorities by that time, the Ravensong expansion will rise to 5% of our tax bill. Why was this not in the information sessions ? 2) The second issue is of interest to we “climate change” geeks! Current facility emissions are about 350 tonnes CO2E per year, some 2% of our QB RCI. I consult in this area and think claims of a 94% reduction may not stack up to scrutiny. The new facility power draw of some 1.8 million kWh per year translates to about 80 tonnes per year of CO2E emission not the 10 claimed. For those who might point to the use of solar panels (a sensible use of new technology) not much help there. The average life-cycle emission profile of solar panels globally is higher than the BC grid power. And if your panels are made in China, largely by coal-power…connect the dots.. 3) On the same GHG impact, the total cost of the energy upgrades will be some $5.5 million financed over 20 years. Without going over all the details it works out to ~$1,500 per tonne of CO2E abated. Quebec and California base their carbon reduction plans on emission trading and Elon Musk (OK, I don’t like him either!) sits on mountains of saleable credits at about $120-150 per tonne or 1/10th of that part of the proposed expansion costs. This is also about the same cost of sequestration. Maybe I'm missing something? Your comments appreciated.
Len Flint asked 4 months ago1) The QB avg tax increase quoted in open meetings was $122 per home, or some 2.5 % of. The QB Town Council presentation gave that value rising to $310 by 2029. Even allowing for significant tax increases for other town priorities by that time, the Ravensong expansion will rise to 5% of our tax bill. Why was this not in the information sessions ?
Correct, the annual impact per average household in the Town of Qualicum Beach, based on the 2025 BC Housing Assessment, is estimated at $122.36. Further, the following table was developed for the information sessions to represent the projected tax requisition for each participating service area which also includes the annual operating costs for the proposed facility expansion:
Participating
Area
Average 2024 Tax
Requisition
2025 Avg
Residential
Value
Projected Tax Requisition for
Ravensong Aquatic Centre Service2025
2026
2027
2028
2029
Parksville
64.83
760,678
79.11
130.84
149.09
171.15
174.20
Qualicum Beach
113.48
964,544
139.86
231.49
263.32
301.90
307.69
EA E
26.48
1,274,458
33.14
54.80
62.45
72.64
73.92
EA F
85.82
749,286
100.40
166.34
189.57
217.29
221.04
EA G
101.69
1,009,500
125.18
205.94
234.20
268.53
273.57
EA H
55.98
915,265
69.56
115.32
130.88
150.10
152.85
2) The second issue is of interest to we “climate change” geeks! Current facility emissions are about 350 tonnes CO2E per year, some 2% of our QB RCI. I consult in this area and think claims of a 94% reduction may not stack up to scrutiny. The new facility power draw of some 1.8 million kWh per year translates to about 80 tonnes per year of CO2E emission not the 10 claimed. For those who might point to the use of solar panels (a sensible use of new technology) not much help there. The average life-cycle emission profile of solar panels globally is higher than the BC grid power. And if your panels are made in China, largely by coal-power…connect the dots..
The project uses annual, industry-standard, integrated BC electricity grid emission factors to calculate the emissions from the Ravensong Expansion’s expected electricity use. We use the integrated grid emission factor because the facility will be connected to the integrated grid. These emission factors are available here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/climate-change/industry/reporting/quantify/electricity. The emission factor values range from 9.7 to 11.5 grams of carbon per kWh of electricity (or 9.7 to 11.5 tonnes of carbon per GWh electricity). The facility will use 1.8 million kWh per year (or 1.8 GWh). Multiplying the emission factor times the electricity use indicates the facility emissions will be between 17.46 tCO2e/yr and 20.7 tCO2e/yr. Even using the lifecycle grid emission factor of 14g carbon/kWh gives a maximum of 25 tCO2e/yr. A 94% reduction from 350 tCO2e/yr is ~20 tCO2e/yr, consistent with the amounts indicated in the presentation to Oceanside Services Committee and shared with the Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) Board (presentation is available here: https://www.getinvolved.rdn.ca/45563/widgets/191384/documents/141322. The project has never claimed to reduce emissions to 10 tCO2e/year.
3) On the same GHG impact, the total cost of the energy upgrades will be some $5.5 million financed over 20 years. Without going over all the details it works out to ~$1,500 per tonne of CO2E abated. Quebec and California base their carbon reduction plans on emission trading and Elon Musk (OK, I don’t like him either!) sits on mountains of saleable credits at about $120-150 per tonne or 1/10th of that part of the proposed expansion costs. This is also about the same cost of sequestration. Maybe I'm missing something? Your comments appreciated.
Yes, the cost per tCO2e abatement is high for the last emission reductions on the project, it is consistent with ‘going the last mile’ and in this case includes not only reductions for embodied emissions that would not be captured in the abatement cost calculation, but also the measures required to comply with the Canadian Green Building Council (CaGBC) Zero Carbon building standard, maintaining eligibility for the Federal Green and Inclusive Community Buildings funding stream of which the RDN recently received a $7 million funding contribution from the federal government for the proposed expansion project. Emission reduction measures on the project also bring value that goes beyond basic abatement cost calculations, including local electricity generation potential, improved energy efficiency, technology demonstration and use of low impact building materials.
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How long will the new facility be functional before needing another upgrade, so what is the “lifespan” on the new upgrade?
Erin Munroe asked 4 months agoWhile some systems and finishes will require updates or replacement over the next 20 years, the anticipated lifespan of the proposed new facility upgrade is 40 years or more before any major renovations or significant replacements would be needed.
Timeline
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October 8, 2024
Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum has finished this stageRDN Board approved Spring 2025 referendum to borrow up to thirty million ($30,000,000) for the Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion project
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October 22, 2024
Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum has finished this stageRDN Board approves the referendum question
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February 5, 2025
Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum has finished this stageReferendum date and information announced.
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February 24 - March 17, 2025
Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum has finished this stageInformation Sessions - six drop-in in-person and one virtual to learn more and ask questions
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March 26, 2025, 8 a.m. - 8p.m.
Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum has finished this stageAdvanced Voting Day
Qualicum Beach Community Hall, 644 Memorial Ave, Qualicum Beach
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April 2, 2025, 8 a.m. - 8p.m.
Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum has finished this stageAdvanced Voting Day
Qualicum Beach Community Hall, 644 Memorial Ave, Qualicum Beach
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April 3, 2025
Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum has finished this stageFinal day to request mail ballot.
To request a mail in ballot visit: rdn.bc.ca/Ravensong-Referendum
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April 5, 2025, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum has finished this stageGeneral Voting Day
To learn more about where to vote visit: rdn.bc.ca/Ravensong-Referendum
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April 9, 2025, by 4 p.m.
Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum has finished this stageOfficial results announced and can be viewed at: rdn.bc.ca/2025Ravensong-results
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April 22, 2025
Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum has finished this stageRDN Board to receive report on official results and provide direction on next steps.
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June 2025
Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum has finished this stageOceanside Services Committee and RDN Board meeting - to discuss potential next steps for the Ravensong Aquatic Centre
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Fall 2025
Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum is currently at this stageRevised designs for the Ravensong Aquatic Centre will be presented to the Oceanside Services Committee and RDN Board to receive direction on an alternative project scope that can be used to reapply to the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program to utilize the $7 million funding contribution provisionally awarded to the original facility expansion project
FAQ's
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Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum Results
- Are there breakdowns of the advanced polls and mail ballots?
- How many eligible electors are in each area ?
- What areas did the mail ballot votes come from?
- When will the referendum results be announced?
- How can we find the results of the referendum?
- What happens next?
- What if I have questions about voting on general voting day, Saturday, April 5?
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Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum
- How can I vote in the Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum?
- Who can vote in the referendum?
- What do I need to bring to confirm my eligibility to vote?
- Can I vote online?
- How many votes are needed for a referendum to pass?
- What is the Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum question?
- What is the difference between a Referendum (Assent Vote) and AAP?
- Does each participating area decide if they pay for the expansion?
- Why is there a referendum for an expansion to Ravensong Aquatic Centre?
- What happens if the referendum passes?
- What happens if the expansion referendum is not approved by electors?
- What is a Referendum (Assent Voting)?
- Will mail ballots be available?
- Will proxies be allowed?
- Who does the RDN borrow the money from?
- Who is the Municipal Finance Authority?
- When does the RDN borrow and draw funds during large scale capital projects?
- How can I receive updates?
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GICB Funding Announcement
- Will the funding contribution from the Federal Government change the question on the ballot?
- How will the funding contribution from the Federal Government affect the tax implications?
- If the referendum is not approved by electors, will the funding contribution from the Federal Government still be available?
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Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion
- What would be included in the expansion if the referendum passes?
- How was it decided what amenities to include in the expansion design?
- What is the cost of the project?
- What does the expansion mean for my taxes?
- What happens if the RDN is successful in receiving grant funding?
- What is the total cost to taxpayers of the Ravensong service including the expansion?
- When would construction start?
- How long would the expansion take to build?
- Would there be a pool closure?
- Why does the proposed expansion not include a fitness centre?
- Did you consider a pool in Parksville?
- What type of filtration system would the new pool have and would it have chlorine?
- How much larger would the new facility be?
- How is the RDN dealing with potential tariffs?
- What is the slope of the zero depth beach entry area of the leisure pool addition and what are the depths of both of the new pools?
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The current Ravensong Aquatic Centre
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Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion Referendum Information Sessions
Referendum Information
Photos
Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion History
Who's listening
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Email recparks@rdn.bc.ca -
Email recparks@rdn.bc.ca