TOWNSHIP OF ESQUIMALT STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: July 13, 2026 Report No. P&R-26-008
TO: Committee of the Whole
FROM: Robbie Young, Manager of Parks
SUBJECT: Gatherwell Sauna Pilot Program - Partnership Proposal for Esquimalt Gorge Park
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
That the Committee of the Whole recommends that Council direct staff to enter into a one-year trial agreement with Gatherwell for mobile sauna operations at Esquimalt Gorge Park and upon completion of the trial, return to Council for further direction.
Body
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Gatherwell, a BC-based sauna operator, has proposed a trial partnership to operate mobile saunas at Esquimalt Gorge Park during the winter months. This would activate park space in the winter season, test a partnership model, and generate municipal revenue with minimal financial risk to the Township. Gatherwell has a successful pilot at Ambleside Beach in West Vancouver (launched December 2025) and has generated positive early results; staff have completed analysis of risk and recommend a structured one-year trial.
BACKGROUND:
Parks and open spaces enrich the well-being of residents and visitors. The use of saunas contributes to health and wellness. Esquimalt Parks and Recreation currently operates a sauna in our recreation centre as it delivers health and[SK1][RY2] social benefits to our residents. Sauna use is associated with a range of health benefits, including improved cardiovascular function, stress reduction, and post-exercise recovery. In addition, the sauna functions as an important social amenity, providing residents with opportunities for informal interaction, connection, and inclusion-key objectives aligned with municipal recreation and public health goals.
When this potential partnership was originally proposed, staff reviewed existing models in the region. This information was presented to the Environmental Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee (EPRAC) in April 2026. Response from EPRAC was ge...
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