Authorization to Release Section 42 Funds to the Dieppe Park Baseball Lighting Improvements Project - by Councillor Paula Fletcher, seconded by Councillor Frances Nunziata

Over the decades, Dieppe Park has evolved to reflect changing community needs, with additions such as sports fields, a ball diamond, playground areas, and seasonal amenities. Today, it continues to function as an important community park, supporting both organized sports and everyday use, with ongoing upgrades to improve accessibility and facilities. The baseball/softball diamond at Dieppe Park is currently rated as a 'B' diamond. The ball diamond was installed in 1950s. The ball diamond is of great significance for the surrounding community and used for youth baseball programs, adult slo-pitch leagues and permitted recreational groups. The ball diamond at Dieppe Park is currently undergoing several upgrades in spring 2026 to improve playability and drainage through a donation secured from East York Baseball. The infield will be expanded and rebuilt using new layers of sand and clay to create a more durable and better-draining surface. Crews will remove old material, reshape the field, and ensure proper grading so water drains effectively. New equipment will also be installed, including: a. a new home plate; and b. new base anchors at both 65' and 90' distances (with a double first base at 65'). The lighting at the ball diamond is old and requires upgrading. With ongoing improvements to the ball diamond, this is an opportune time to incorporate lighting upgrades as part of the Phase 2 improvements for Dieppe Park. Replacing the existing lighting with energy-efficient LED fixtures will improve illumination of the diamond and enhance the overall player experience. The lighting scope is not currently included in the Parks and Recreation capital budget or plan. This motion seeks authority to release Section 42 funds for the Dieppe Park Phase 2 project to facilitate completion of the lighting upgrades. The motion authorizes the release of $170,000 in Section 42 funds secured from various developments in Ward 14 - Toronto Danforth to the Parks and Recreation 2026 - 2035 Capital Budget and Plan for lighting improvements at Dieppe Park baseball diamond.

$20,000 from Section 42 Reserve Fund (Source Account: XR2213-4201592); b. $22,000 from Section 42 Reserve Fund (Source Account: XR2213-4201698); c. $18,000 from Section 42 Reserve Fund (Source Account: XR2213-4201789); d. $16,000 from Section 42 Reserve Fund (Source Account: XR2213-4201593); e. $25,000 from Section 42 Reserve Fund (Source Account: XR2213-4201387); f. $14,000 from Section 42 Reserve Fund (Source Account: XR2213-4201591); g. $15,000 from Section 42 Reserve Fund (Source Account: XR2213-4201518); h. $15,000 from Section 42 Reserve Fund (Source Account: XR2213-4201047); and i. $25,000 from Section 42 Reserve Fund (Source Account: XR2213-4201649).