Item - 2026.EC30.13

Tracking Status

This item was considered by Economic and Community Development Committee on July 14, 2026. The Economic and Community Development Committee has referred this item to an official or other body without making a decision. Consult the text of the decision for further information on the referral.

EC30.13 - Basketball Nets at City of Toronto Parks and City Owned and Operated Facilities

Decision Type:: ACTION

Status:: Referred

Wards:: All

Committee Decision

The Economic and Community Development Committee:

1. Referred the Item EC30.13 to the General Manager, Parks and Recreation with a request to report back as part of the 2027 budget process on equipping all basketball backboards in City of Toronto-owned and operated facilities and parks with appropriate nets, and implementing a regular inspection and maintenance program to replace missing or damaged nets in a timely manner.

Origin

(June 25, 2026) Letter from Councillor Paul Ainslie

Summary

Access to fully maintained basketball courts supports recreation, community engagement, and youth activity across Toronto neighbourhoods. Many City courts currently have missing or damaged nets, reducing playability and user experience.

The practice of removing basketball nets from city parks and facilities was to be discontinued in 2019, to support and encourage recreational play across the city. Yet today many courts remain without proper nets, indicating a need for a formal request supported by City Council, with a more consistent and proactive maintenance approach.

Ensuring that all hoops are equipped with proper nets, and maintained on a consistent schedule, will improve recreational infrastructure and promote safer and more enjoyable use of public facilities.

We need to have our residents enjoying City Facilities and encourage play.

Background Information

(June 25, 2026) Letter from Councillor Paul Ainslie on Basketball Nets at City of Toronto Parks and City Owned and Operated Facilities
https://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2026/ec/bgrd/backgroundfile-288840.pdf

Motions

Motion to Refer Item moved by Councillor Alejandra Bravo (Carried)

That:

1. The Economic and Community Development Committee refer the item to the General Manager, Parks and Recreation with a request to report back as part of the 2027 budget process on equipping all basketball backboards in City of Toronto-owned and operated facilities and parks with appropriate nets, and implementing a regular inspection and maintenance program to replace missing or damaged nets in a timely manner.