Hamilton will open splash pads early

THE CITY of Hamilton will open all 65 of its splash pads as soon as possible because of an early heat wave — as well as increasingly heated complaints from parents.

The city usually waits until June 11 to open any splash pads, and the majority do not start spraying water until or near the end of the school year.

But soaring temperatures in mid to late May have prompted more residents to complain about the city’s reluctance to turn on the taps — particularly given other nearby cities like Burlington and Mississauga have already opened their spray pads.

Coun. Brenda Johnson, who has pitched an extended splash pad season in the past, made a successful motion Thursday to open the spray pads now and ensure the taps turn on by the May long weekend in future.

Johnson argued Hamilton is “about a month behind” other communities and needs to recognize the realities of a changing climate. “It doesn’t reflect well on this city,” she said.

The city also received blowback online when it announced Wednesday that two councillors had put up extra cash to open splash pads in their wards — Dundas and Ancaster.

“Regardless of location, every child should have access to cooling stations/splash pads at the same time,” tweeted Owen Webb.

“All kids should have the opportunity to cool off and have fun, but in particular those in inner city areas that have less relief from the heat,” added Sarah Rietkoetter in another tweet.

Public works head Dan McKinnon

told councillors that he had “anticipated” a request for immediate splash pad relief and had already directed staff to start turning on the taps. He said all spray pads should be opened over

the coming days.

Council voted against an $87,000 budget boost last year that would have allowed splash pads across Hamilton to open in May. That decision came against

the backdrop of rare staff cuts and spiking home assessment values during a contentious budget debate. The city has also previously said the late June openings came at the request of school

boards concerned about students using splash pads during the school day.

GARY YOKOYAMA THE HAMILTON SPECTATOR Revy Milne, 3, enjoys the Village Green Park splash pad in Ancaster.

GARY YOKOYAMA THE HAMILTON SPECTATOR Three-year-old Revy Milne makes a dash through a splash pad in Ancaster, which is open early this year thanks to a move by Hamilton city council.