FAQ
Are the Hendrick Foundation parks & trails and green spaces open to the public?
Yes, all Hendrick Foundation land (which includes a variety of green spaces as well as a natural playground) is privately funded for public enjoyment.
Can we hold an event on Hendrick Foundation land?
The Foundation is always open to educational events that will benefit the community at large. Any inquiries about the use of Foundation land can be sent to info@hendrickfoundation.ca
How is Hendrick Foundation distinct from the HOAs and from the Developer?
The Hendrick Foundation is a separate, federally incorporated not-for-profit corporation (incorporated March 7,2016 under the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act) Its mission is to build, preserve, maintain and ensure public access to the parks, trails, and greenspaces under its care.
The Foundation is independent from both the HOAs and the developer. HOAs govern their own phases and common elements; the developer builds and sells. The Foundation’s role is to steward greenspaces that were originally parts of the Hendrick family farm that remain undeveloped and are not managed by an HOA or the Municipality.
At present, the Foundation leases lands from the developer and is working toward a structured plan for eventual transfer. The Foundation is funded through sales of properties.
How is Hendrick Foundation funded?
The Foundation is funded primarily through a contribution tied to home sales within the Hendrick Farm Project:1% of the sale price for all new sales and resales is paid to the Foundation to support ongoing operations. This funding model functions as an exit tax or a transfer-based contribution, payable on sales rather than on purchases.
The Board manages spending to match predictable revenues. As well multi-year financial projections are maintained and building reserves are a priority, so routine maintenance and unexpected costs can be covered.
The Foundation is also beginning to diversify its funding through grants and partnerships and has already received funds from the Municipality for specific initiatives (for example, the Monarch Way Station and last year’s wilderness training session). We expect to pursue these opportunities more actively in the coming year(s).
When will the Hendrick Foundation become owners of the Land?
The Foundation has begun preliminary discussions with the land owner and it will likely be near completion of the residential project. In our 2026 strategic objectives, we have included steps to ensure we are ready when the transfer becomes possible.
Key steps include:
Updating and executing the lease agreement with Landlab (including clarifying clauses and ensuring the Foundation can enter partnerships that benefit long-term stewardship).
Developing a Board-approved Land transfer readiness plan,with professional support so the transfer can proceed smoothly and transparently when the time comes.
How will remaining construction in the Hendrick Farm development affect Foundation grounds?
The Foundation is seeking to establish a formal coordination plan with the developer(s) to manage any construction activity that could affect access to Foundation trails, paths and features. The goal is to anticipate impacts – temporary closures, safety concerns, heavy equipment access repairs–before issues arise, rather than responding after the fact.
We will also strengthen communications so residents receive timely updates about expected disruptions, detours and restoration plans.
What are the plans for tree replacement in Hendrick Foundation Garden?
After the arborist's assessment the Board considered several paths forward for restoring tree health in the Foundation Garden. One option was a straightforward ‘like-for-like’ replanting. Instead, we saw an opportunity to consider a more thoughtful reimagining of the space with Hendrik Farm resident consultation. This multi-phased process will be launched in 2026.
Why did Hendrick Foundation decide to stop providing receptacles for the collection of animal waste?
The decision is an example of how we have been reviewing our spending with an eye to lowering discretionary spending in the long term.
Financial Sustainability and Cost Considerations
Maintaining the bins had become increasingly costly, both in terms of regular servicing and infrastructure upkeep. Maintaining this service effectively requires that the bins be examined daily and emptied frequently and comes with a cost equal to the revenue received from the sale of one single detached home. As part of our broader sustainability efforts, we aim to encourage residents to take responsibility for managing their own pet waste disposal by utilizing different solutions, such as carrying waste bags to their homes.Equity Across Park Usage
Hendrick Park is enjoyed by residents for various activities beyond dog walking. The Board seeks to allocate resources to ensure that the park remains accessible and enjoyable for all users. Paying for pet waste removal comes with an opportunity cost preventing funds from being allocated to other projects like trail maintenance.Community Responsibility
Encouraging dog owners to dispose of waste responsibly without reliance on these costly bins aligns with fostering a culture of mutual accountability. Many communities successfully adopt the practice of “leave no trace”, and we believe our residents can do the same.