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Office of the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)
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Shane Baker - Chief Administrative Officer
The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) is appointed by and reports directly to Town Council. Based on delegated authority of Council, the CAO directs and co-ordinates the general management of business affairs of the corporation, in accordance with the by-laws, policies and plans approved by Council, to ensure the delivery of high-quality services and facilities which preserve or enhance the social, economic and physical well-being of the community. The CAO is responsible to ensure that innovative programs and services are developed and implemented to meet the ever-changing needs of the community, while ensuring fiscal responsibility. The CAO ensures that Council directives are coordinated between Town departments and relevant agencies while ensuring that the operations within the organization are conducted within the framework of the values and goals of the organization. Located at Town Hall, the Office of the CAO
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Public and Strategic Affairs
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The Public and Strategic Affairs (PSA) department provides administrative services, guidance, research and policy support to the Mayor and Members of Council, manages and coordinates political initiatives to advance the interests of the Town's residents and businesses, implements the Town's Strategic Plan, manages various corporate projects and leads internal and external strategic communications initiatives.
The PSA department is comprised of the following distinct sections:
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Strategic Initiatives
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Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
At the Town, diversity is our strength. We have the fastest-growing diverse population and value our community's many contributions. We are committed to respect, inclusion, diversity, and equity and have zero tolerance for all acts of discrimination and hate. We strive to continually lead with these values and beliefs that enable our community to develop their potential, bring their full selves to work, and engage in a place of understanding, learning, and inclusivity. Learn more about the Town’s Indigenous Community and Healing Garden, Ajax Shining Star Bursary Program, Ajax Anti-Racism Task Force and other DEI initiatives at ajax.ca/Diversity.
Business Supports
The Town engages and supports our business community. Our Business Development Team encourages business success by working with our local businesses through Business Retention & Expansion opportunities, while also assisting external businesses through the site selection process to help them establish their operations here in Ajax. Our Team provides market information on Ajax and access to government programs and resources available to businesses, crucial to helping business owners and entrepreneurs make informed decisions. They also engage our local businesses by hosting events such as our popular Ajax Business Network (ABNs) sessions, to celebrating business milestones, such as grand openings, ground breakings, and business anniversaries. In addition, our staff promotes tourism opportunities and experiences in Ajax and manages the film permits process at the Town of Ajax.
Grants and Partnerships
The Town supports our community through the Ajax Partnership Fund, an annual $250,000 stream of funding for initiatives and projects of shared strategic importance. Grants and Partnerships also engages with organizations and groups to enable unique partnerships with the Town. In addition, the Grants and Partnerships team applies on behalf of the Town for grants and other funding opportunities to extend the capacity of the Town and strengthen Ajax's long term financial stability.
Community Supports
The Town's Community Support area coordinates access to programs and services that address complex social issues such as crime, homelessness, mental health, addictions, and community wellbeing. While many of these issues fall under other levels of governments' jurisdictions, the Town seeks to be a leader in finding local, municipal solutions to support the community. The team also also works to build capacity in Town staff to better serve our residents, as well as amplifies the work being done by community organizations, including the Durham Regional Police Service.
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| Quality Management Program |
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The Quality Management Program (QMP) is composed of a number of sub-categories that support the day-to-day functions at the Town:
Document Management System (DMS) - To perform the numerous and ever-growing processes at the Town, Controlled Documents are utilized to ensure a repeatable, high-quality service delivery to the community.
Internal Reviews - Having a cross functional team performing assessments on indiscriminately selected Controlled Documents safeguards the quality of documentation and acts as a training refresher. This keeps Town staff vigilant and maintains best practices at the Town.
Lean and Continuous Improvement - By not continuously improving how staff performs and delivers services to the community, the Town runs the risk of performing tasks ineffectively. This can result in delays, rework, and decreased customer satisfaction. Through the adoption of Lean, the Town encourages staff to continually review the way they work and implement improvements via the Plan-Do-Check-Act model
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| Communications & Engagement |
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The Communications and Engagement Team supports the Town and community through external and internal communications planning and support. Staff provide public engagement opportunities, digital and web services, manage the Town's social media and creative services (brand and identity management). Additionally we coordinate media relations with our local media outlets/organizations.
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Corporate Security
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Corporate Security in the Town of Ajax plays a vital role in protecting municipal facilities, staff, residents, and information. It ensures the safety of Town buildings and public spaces through surveillance, access controls, and contracted security services. The team also supports emergency preparedness, risk assessment, and incident response while safeguarding sensitive data in partnership with IT. By maintaining a proactive and integrated approach, Corporate Security helps ensure safe, resilient operations and public trust across all Town services.
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| Government Relations and Mayor and Council Support |
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Mayor and Council administrative support and strategic advice – Staff support Mayor and Council in their day-to-day duties, including calendar, meeting and public engagement support, resident inquiries and issue research. Our team also advises Council on positions and directions that best align with Town of Ajax initiatives and values.
Government relations and external stakeholder relations – The Town is dedicated to building and maintaining positive, ongoing and mutually beneficial relationships with our government partners and external stakeholders, furthering Town priorities and looking for alignment and support opportunities. Government relations files rarely close; rather they evolve as new information is released, as policies and players change.
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| Finance |
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The Finance Department provides accounting services, financial analysis and advice to Town Council and Town Departments.
This includes guiding the short and long term financial strategies of the Corporation, coordinating budgets and forecasts for presentation to Council, levying and collecting taxes, purchasing, insurance/risk management, accounting and managing the financial assets of the Corporation.
The Finance Department is comprised of the following sections:
| Administration |
- Insurance claims and risk management
- Coordinate insurance coverage
- Maintain department personnel records
- Manage department filing system
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| Fire and Emergency Services |
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Ajax Fire and Emergency Services is a full-time department that is committed to providing the highest possible level of customer service to our residents, visitors and guests. Through our various programs for adults and children, we strive to educate all our residents on the importance of fire safety.
We operate the following three fire stations:
- Fire Headquarters Station #1: 900 Salem Road North
- Station #2: 435 Monarch Avenue
- Station #3: 40 Westney Road North
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| Corporate Services |
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Nicole Cooper - Deputy Chief Administrative Officer
The Corporate Services Department serves our customers in a friendly and professional manner. We are committed to the continual enhancement of services in order to provide the best experience and value to our residents, taxpayers and customers. Corporate Services staff embrace the role of technology as a critical tool in improving the convenient delivery of services.
The Corporate Services Department consists of these four distinct sections:
| By-law Services |
| Bylaw Services identifies issues, recommends appropriate regulatory solutions, and follows-up with positive enforcement techniques in order to protect and benefit individuals and the community. Examples include comprehensive parking and traffic regulations, property standards, noise and other nuisances, trade licensing, animal services (primarily dog and cat), and many other matters. |
| Customer Services |
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Customer Services provides coordination and oversight of the Town's Quality System and corporate customer service standards and initiatives. In addition, the section provides primary telephone reception, handles Town Hall information inquiries, issues marriage licenses and performs civil marriage ceremonies, provides Commissioner of Oaths services, receives parking ticket and other payments, and many other direct services.
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| HR Services |
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HR Services is responsible for the following:
- Employee life cycle (recruitment, onboarding, workforce planning, and forecasting)
- Labour and employee relations (collective bargaining, policies and procedures, and ensuring legal compliance of employment practices)
- Wellness, health and safety (disability management, and employee/family assistance)
- Employee learning and development, performance management and recognition
- Compensation, job evaluation, health care benefits, pension administration and attendance management
- Organizational development (change management, staffing and succession planning)
**Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), which is a Federal Government agency, which oversees the following:
- Unemployment
- Maternity / Parental Leave Benefits
- Social Insurance Numbers (SIN)
- Job Searches & Continuing Education
For more information regarding ESDC programs and services, click here.
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| Legislative Services |
| Legislative Services coordinates the Town's governance structure, such as Town Council and its Standing Committees, and various Citizen Advisory Committees, including the preparation of meeting agendas, minutes and correspondence. This section administers municipal elections, oversees the Town's records and archives, including responses to Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act inquiries, and coordinates the Town's commitment to fully accessible services. |
| Technology and Innovation Services |
| Technology and Innovation Services provides and supports business applications, technology infrastructure, network communications, telephone services, and various other technology assistance. This support enables all Town staff to provide effective public services and maintain efficient government operations through the appropriate and innovative application of information technologies. |
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| Operations & Environmental Services |
Dave Meredith - Director of Operations
The Operations and Environmental Services team is committed to delivering timely and efficient municipal services. We strive to respond proactively to the needs of our community, building relationships based on trust and respect. Our team continuously evaluates its practices to support improvement, sustainability, and environmental responsibility.
Operations and Environmental Services includes six key service areas:
| Environmental Services |
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The Ajax Parks System is open year-round for your enjoyment. To support this service, park maintenance includes:
- Litter control
- Repair of park infrastructure
- Sports field maintenance
- Forestry services
- Horticulture
The Parks Section manages approximately 800 hectares of land and maintains all pedestrian and cycling pathways. We care for all local parks and parkland within the Town of Ajax, with a focus on improving streetscapes and outdoor spaces to provide a safe and welcoming environment for residents.
Responsibilities include maintaining:
- Walkways
- Sports fields
- Playgrounds
- Splash pads
- Skate parks
- Shrub beds
- Grassed areas
We have recently expanded our naturalization program to help create self-sustaining, ecologically diverse park and open spaces. Allowing areas to regenerate naturally offers many benefits, including:
- Improved water quality
- Increased biodiversity
- Reduced emissions
- Better air quality
- Reduced need for pesticides
Our Forestry Section cares for all Town-owned trees located along streets, in parks, green spaces, natural areas, and woodlands. We aim to preserve, conserve, and manage the urban forest to enhance the quality of life for Ajax residents. The team also supports other departments and the public with streetscape design, tree preservation, and community planting projects.
The Town also leads several programs that support parks and green spaces, including:
- Adopt a Park
- Anti-Litter Campaigns
- Leash-Free Dog Areas
- Special Events
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| Operations |
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Our Operations team coordinates and provides routine maintenance services on Town-owned roads, bridges, sidewalks, walkways, and storm sewers within the Town of Ajax. This includes, but is not limited to, the following programs:
- Routine Road Maintenance – Includes sign repair, pothole patching, street sweeping, crack sealing, catch basin cleaning, and line painting.
- Winter Control – Provides snow removal on Town-owned roadways.
- Sidewalks – Provides summer maintenance to sidewalks that front Town of Ajax property, as well as sidewalks that parallel Region of Durham roads within the Town of Ajax.
- Roadway Illumination – Includes routine maintenance of streetlights on Regional and Town-owned roadways within Ajax.
- Permits – Involves the review and approval of Road Occupancy and Municipal Consent permit applications.
- Driveway Widening / Curb Cutting Program
- Fence Maintenance – Town-owned and Town-shared fences
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| Capital Projects |
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Capital Projects team is responsible for the planning, budgeting, environmental assessment, approvals, coordination and implementation of infrastructure projects in the Town of Ajax. Specific responsibilities include:
- Growth management infrastructure planning
- Project management for Municipal Class Environmental Assessments related to infrastructure projects
- Participating in the Development Charge Background Review
- Capital Budget and Long-Range Capital Forecasting for the town’s infrastructure need
- Design, Preparation of Request for Tenders, Requests for Proposals, Terms of Reference, Contract administration and inspection of projects
- Coordination with the Region of Durham and External liaison on infrastructure projects
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| Infrastructure and Asset Management |
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The Infrastructure and Asset Management section provides asset management for town assets and provides project management services to infrastructure projects supporting new construction projects as well as repair and rehabilitation projects of town's assets.
| Infrastructure |
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The Infrastructure section provides project management services for infrastructure projects, including the design and construction of new assets and the repair and rehabilitation of the Town's existing assets.
The design phase of a project involves preparing construction contract drawings and tender documents required for its execution. This stage typically includes engineering design, along with stakeholders and public consultation to finalize and support project objectives.
The construction phase is the implementation stage of a project, where physical assembly begins. It involves ensuring compliance with design specifications, adhering to safety standards, site inspections, quality control, coordination among stakeholders and timelines. This phase is essential for translating plans into functional infrastructure.
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| Asset Management |
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Asset Management section helps protect and enhance the quality of life in Ajax by making the best possible decisions regarding our assets.
As seen below, the Corporate Asset Management Plan (CAMP) divides Ajax’s municipal assets into 8 distinct service areas (bolded service areas are fully or partially the responsibility of Operations and Environmental Services):
- Transportation (Roads, Bridges, Sidewalks, Streetlights);
- Environmental (Storm Sewers, Ponds, Trees);
- Facilities (Administration Buildings, Recreation/Community Centres, Fire Halls);
- Parks, Recreation and Culture (Indoor Recreation Equipment and Outdoor Recreation);
- Fleet (Vehicles, Rolling Equipment, Fire Response);
- Library (Collections, Furniture, Public Technology);
- Information Technology (User Devices, Servers, Networking Equipment);
- Fire (Personal Protective Equipment, Rescue Equipment, Suppression Equipment).
Asset Management intends to meet the needs of the community in the most economical way.
The Town of Ajax ensures that asset management is done responsibly, making decisions based on the lowest cost over the life of an asset.
Asset Management is the roadmap to ensure our assets are maintained to maximize their life and drives the needs and priorities for replacement.
Why is Asset Management important?
Asset Management ensures asset investment decisions are made using the most accurate information and helps residents of Ajax enjoy their community.
Both the Federal and Provincial government grant programs, such as the Canada Community-Building Fund (CCBF), require that municipalities have asset management plans to be eligible for funding. Under Ontario Regulation 588/17, the Ontario government has made it law that all municipalities must have an asset management policy and plan in place and must be updated at least every five (5) years.
Documents
Ajax’s Corporate Asset Management Policy outlines the governance of responsibly managing Town owned infrastructure, incorporating levels of service, risk, climate change, economic growth, and financial capacity. It provides a framework to Town staff on how to efficiently manage municipal assets.
Ajax’s 2025 Corporate Asset Management Plan gives an overview of the Town's municipal asset health and its financial preparedness in order to meet the levels of service expectations of the community. The Corporate Asset Management Plan will be updated at least every 5 years and will align with the goals of Council.
In accordance with O. Reg. 588/17, this plan outlines the proposed levels of service for the Town's tangible capital infrastructure assets, the condition of all Town assets, and growth forecasts for the Town of Ajax. This plan forecasts the 10-year financial capital and operational needs of the Town of Ajax.
*Asset Management documents and reports prior to 2024 are available upon request. Please email infrastructure@ajax.ca for additional information.
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| Building Maintenance |
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The Building Maintenance Section provides internal services that support the Corporation by maintaining all Town facilities. These include:
- recreation centres
- fire halls
- Town Hall
- the Operations Centre
- park facilities and pavilions
The team also manages facility assets and delivers project management services for Town facility projects. This includes support for new construction, as well as repair and rehabilitation of Town buildings and assets.
The team is committed to exploring new technologies that improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
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| Fleet Services |
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Fleet Services is an internal service that manages the Town’s vehicles and equipment. The primary functions of the section include acquiring, maintaining, regulating, allotting, and retiring fleet assets to support the internal transportation needs required for meeting service delivery. Vehicles and equipment include, but are not limited to, licensed small/medium/heavy duty cars and trucks, construction equipment, off-road agricultural equipment, grounds maintenance equipment, ice conditioners, Fire apparatus, and a wide variety of specialty hand tools.
Additionally, Fleet services also oversees the vehicle and equipment asset database, including annual condition assessments, as well as maintaining a corporate fuel inventory and department parts inventory, and providing corporate vehicle and equipment training programs where needed. Fleet Services actively explores new technologies to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact where feasible.
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| Planning and Development |
Geoff Romanowski - Director of Planning & Development Services
The Planning and Development Services Team of proactive and responsive professionals will be leaders in the provision of excellence in customer service. We embrace the opportunity to build a model community for the future, one which includes thriving businesses and desirable neighbourhoods, an efficient infrastructure, safe buildings, and a distinct rural area, all complemented by a commitment to preserve our natural environment.
Planning and Development Services is responsible for the urban planning, development, building and engineering of Ajax. The Department is made up of the following sections:
Quick links
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| Recreation & Culture |
Chris Vida - Director of Recreation & Culture
Recreation & Culture is committed to providing quality programs and services, festivals & events and facilities that create opportunities to strengthen individuals, families and the community. Embracing a customer driven focus, our services are inclusive and responsive to the needs of a diverse and changing population. We work collaboratively with our community partners to develop creative approaches that maximize recreational leisure, and arts and cultural opportunities. With integrity, teamwork, innovation and excellence, we are dedicated to preserving and enhancing the quality of life and wellbeing for all residents in the Town of Ajax.
| Recreation Programs & Active Living |
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Discover a world of fun, fitness and creativity with our wide range of programs designed for all ages and abilities. Whether you're looking to stay active, learn a new skill or make new friends, we have something perfect for kids, teens and adults looking to stay active and engaged.
Explore your passions and try something new with our diverse selection of programs:
Sports: Basketball, soccer, volleyball and multi-sport programs.
Arts & Dance: Painting, drawing, music, ballet, hip-hop and more.
School Break Camps: Fun-filled day camps during school holidays with games, crafts and outdoor play.
Swimming Lessons: Dive into confidence and safety with our progressive swimming programs which include parent & tot classes, learn-to-swim levels for children and youth, adult swim lessons, Lifesaving and leadership courses. Our certified instructors create a safe and supportive environment for all skill levels.
Fitness: Stay strong, energized and connected through our fitness and wellness offerings. We offer a variety of Fitness & Health Centre membership types (one membership – three locations) or join a Group Fitness class such as Pilates, yoga, Zumba® and more. Specialized programs for older adults and accessible fitness options, seasonal wellness challenges and workshops are available.
Join a community that moves together!
Visit our Activities and Recreation Programs page for more information.
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| Culture & Events |
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Ajax is a vibrant, creative, and culturally diverse community, with a rich history and heritage. Our goal is to create innovative, exciting and accessible arts and cultural experiences for our residents and visitors. From a variety of small to large family-friendly events, to an incredible array of concerts and theatre shows, there’s something for everyone. Whether on your own or with family, friends and neighbours, have fun, make memories and explore all that Ajax has to offer! Ajax—where Culture happens!
Festivals and Events in Ajax include: Ajax Winterfest, Ajax Canada Day Celebrations, Trailfest, Summer in the Square, Movies in the Park, Ajax Spirit Walk, Pumpkinville, Ajax Santa Claus Parade, Christmas in the Village and the Ajax Family New Year’s Eve Party.
Visit our Festivals & Events page for more information.
Interested in being a Sponsor, Vendor or Performer at a Town of Ajax event? Visit our Get Involved page for more information including event dates, vendor fees and more.
St. Francis Centre for Community, Arts & Culture: Located in the heart of Pickering Village, the St. Francis Centre is Ajax’s premier destination for arts, culture and heritage. Originally constructed in 1871, and retrofitted in 2011, this designated heritage building marries historic architecture with modern design to create a state-of-the-art performance venue that features a full season of performances and events, including incredible variety shows, amazing concerts, family shows for the young and young at heart, thought-provoking film screenings and fun social events.
For more information, show dates, times and ticket information, please visit our St. Francis Centre page.
Public Art and Memorials: For more information on the many memorials, public art pieces and heritage installations throughout Ajax, visit our Public Art, Memorials and Monuments page.
Volunteer Management: The heart of Ajax is its people! Volunteer today and make a difference in our community! Volunteering is a great way to:
- Gain work experience;
- Earn volunteer hours for high school;
- Meet new people;
- Give back to your community
Visit our Volunteer page for more information
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| Facilities |
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Our recreation facilities are some of Durham's best and busiest recreation complexes! We pride ourselves on offering friendly, courteous and professional staff. We work extremely hard at meeting and exceeding our customers' expectations. Whether we are preparing one of our banquet halls for a wedding, maintaining exceptional ice in our arenas, sparkling water in our pools or supporting the many groups that use our facilities for their special events, tournaments or celebrations, we strive to ensure a positive and welcoming experience.
Visit our Rent a Facility page for more information.
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| Customer Service & Administration |
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The Customer Service & Administration section manages a variety of business functions within Recreation & Culture including:
Community Centre Customer Service Desk:
Staff provide welcoming and courteous service to our community centre patrons, taking care of all program registrations and daily entrance fees, fitness memberships, account management services, answering resident inquiries, etc.
Marketing & Promotions:
Develop and generate campaigns, promotions and promotional pieces to ensure the community is fully informed and can engage in the many programs, services, activities, festivals & events, sports, etc. offered in the Town.
Facility Booking Services:
Through our Facility Booking office, we focus on community sport development through the creation of permits and engagement with all new, emerging and established sport/activity groups to ensure opportunity, access and sustainability. We also offer facility rental opportunities for private bookings (e.g. meetings, weddings, picnics, birthdays, celebrations, etc).
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