I wish there were more things for kids to do!

I wish there were more things for kids to do! How many times have we heard this? All kinds of ideas are presented when this question comes up. We should have an arcade! Bring back the bowling alley! Community Recreation Building!

Did you know we are working on a solution right now?

I support the Sports Complex project for the city of Canby. For as long as I can remember, we have lamented about the lack of things for our youth to do in Canby. Also, my children have played baseball and soccer in Canby. I remember the condition of the fields, and how there was even a little bit of embarrassment when trying to hold tournaments. Canby would be passed over by regional tournaments due to the condition of our fields and lack of facilities. 

I do firmly believe there is a need for indoor recreation facilities as well as outdoor. Considering the NW climate, it would not make sense to exclude this. The rain season is much longer than the dry season.

Recreational facilities play a crucial role in the development and well-being of young people in small towns. Here are some reasons why they’re essential:

• Physical Health: These facilities provide safe and accessible spaces for youth to engage in physical activities. Regular exercise helps prevent obesity, improves cardiovascular health, and promotes overall physical fitness.
• Mental Health: Engaging in recreational activities can have a positive impact on mental health. It reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, and can boost self-esteem.
• Social Development: Recreational facilities offer opportunities for youth to interact with peers, develop friendships, and learn important social skills like teamwork, cooperation, and leadership.
• Community Engagement: These facilities can serve as hubs for community gatherings and events, fostering a sense of belonging and connection among residents.
• Crime Prevention: Recreational facilities can help to deter crime by providing positive alternatives for youth to spend their time.
• Educational Opportunities: Many recreational facilities offer educational programs, such as art classes, music lessons, and science experiments, which can supplement formal education and foster a love of learning.
• Economic Benefits: Recreational facilities can attract visitors to small towns, boosting local economies through tourism and spending.

Many of these reasons apply to adults too! Adult baseball, soccer and basketball leagues would be so much fun as well! We can continue to improve the livability of Canby.

Let’s make sure we find a solution that is fiscally responsible not only initially but in the total cost of ownership over the years, take into account traffic impact now and in the future, accessibility and flexibility. We can do this if we hold to our values but also keep an open mind and think outside the box.