[This transcript was generated automatically from audio using AI and hasn't been reviewed by a person -- it can contain mistakes, including plausible-sounding sentences that were never actually said. Treat it as a starting point, not a verbatim record.]

[1:27] Good afternoon, everyone.
[1:33] I would like to call this meeting of council for June 24, 2025 to order.
[1:41] Before we start the meeting, I just wanted to take a moment on behalf of the Abbotsford City Council
[1:46] and the entire city of Abbotsford to congratulate the Abbotsford Connox on winning the 2025 Calder Cup Championship.
[1:55] my
[2:02] heart rates actually come back down to normal finally, but they had an unforgettable and
[2:07] historic season and last night's victory was a moment that we will all remember and
[2:12] have the icing on the cake. Since the first buck drop in 2021, the Abbey Canucks have
[2:19] brought energy, excitement, and first-class fan experience to our community and fans across
[2:24] B.C. Advocanox fans have been cheering them on all season long, and well, I would have loved
[2:32] to have seen them win the cup on home ice on Saturday evening. There's nothing, there's
[2:39] something and nothing better than the symbolism of bringing home the American hockey league
[2:46] colder cup home to Canada where it belongs. The team uses the tagline proudly avid sport and
[2:53] And I just wanted them to know that habits were also very proud of them.
[2:58] We are looking forward to celebrating this momentous win with the community and with the
[3:02] connox when they return and I believe they just have returned earlier this afternoon.
[3:08] We are working with the connox, it's their celebration, their the lead and will be supporting.
[3:16] So I know people want to know what's going on, we're going to let them, it's their party,
[3:21] It's there day, it's there time to shine.
[3:23] So those announcements will be the forthcoming.
[3:26] But we just wanted to, again, congratulate the Habits
[3:30] for the Conox to congratulate the community
[3:32] and really a win for Canada.
[3:34] So thank you.
[3:38] With that, I will have an adoption of the agenda.
[3:42] Our call for motion for adoption of the agenda
[3:45] with item 7.1 revision.
[3:49] That's moved by Councillor Sedu, seconded by Councillor Park.
[3:52] And did I see your hand?
[3:53] Yeah, okay.
[3:54] I thought I saw something in other corner of my eye.
[3:57] All those in favor?
[3:59] The motion carries.
[4:00] And we have adoption of one set of minutes from June 17th, 2025.
[4:06] Move by Councillor Ross, seconded by Councillor Drieson,
[4:09] and any errors or omissions?
[4:11] All those in favor?
[4:13] The motion carries.
[4:16] And, oh, Councillor Schauhall had another engagement
[4:19] that she had to be to at three o'clock, but she will be here for the public hearing this evening.
[4:26] We will go right down to minutes and of course on this and I'll turn that over to staff.
[4:32] Thank you, Mr. Mayor.
[4:33] Item 6.1 to 6.4, contain two sets of committee minutes.
[4:37] Correspondence regarding the South Coast Highway Patrol Service Model
[4:41] and a clerks memorandum for Council's information.
[4:46] Is there any items there that anybody would like to speak to or pull out for a discussion?
[4:52] good to see the advocacy from the MLAs on the South Coast Highway Patrol, and much appreciate it.
[5:00] I will turn it back over to staff at the next item, please.
[5:08] Good afternoon, your worship in council.
[5:09] The next item on the agenda is 7.1, a report regarding the 2024 annual report and audited financial statements.
[5:17] It is being presented today by the General Manager of Finance and Procurement, Mr. Bissati and myself.
[5:23] I'm pleased to be here this afternoon to present the annual report in 2024 the City of
[5:29] Abbott's Ford continued to deliver to exceptional services to the community while also
[5:34] making significant progress on council strategic plan.
[5:38] I know that we cannot have achieved all this that we had today with the vision and leadership
[5:43] of council and our staff as they continue to work hard in serving our community.
[5:48] The annual report in front of you today reflects on the full compliment of services that we continue to provide to the community and includes a consolidated financial information for 2024 calendar year.
[6:03] It also provides a snapshot of the progress we have made towards achieving council strategic priorities.
[6:09] Council has provided a clear direction on how these services are to be delivered to the community
[6:14] through their strategic plan and our vision to be the cultural and economic hub of the Fraser Valley.
[6:24] The purpose of the annual report is to reflect on the previous years accomplishments, progress and financial overview.
[6:31] This report also is legislated requirement under the Community Charter Section 167 to present this information to the public.
[6:39] The annual report also looks at and incorporates Council's strategic plan, which identifies both a vision and mission for the city and the community and is built around four principles of inclusive and connected community, sustainable and safe city, vibrant and growing economy, organizational excellence and integrity.
[6:59] There are also 41 actions identified in the plan, and staff have well-advanced, and were completed, and many of the actions.
[7:09] I will now talk about some of the accomplishments under each of the four cornerstones.
[7:19] There are so many items that I can speak to each of the upcoming slides, and how we're achieving those goals.
[7:28] But I'll pick one per slide to provide...
[7:30] A little more details. So regarding the goal of increasing access to transit, in 2024, we had completed
[7:37] the construction of the Montrose Avenue Transit Exchange with funding from senior levels of government.
[7:43] This project is pivotal in helping us expand our transit service to our community along the main arterials
[7:49] and connecting our city center with neighborhoods and is in keeping with our growth patterns and land uses,
[7:55] identified in the city's official community plan.
[7:58] This project is the next step and should provide more affordable
[8:02] transportation options and getting around in the community,
[8:06] lessening our requirements on the single occupancy vehicle
[8:09] and also reducing our greenhouse gas emissions
[8:11] along with our environmentally friendly transit fleet.
[8:19] In addition, the city has launched the sports field
[8:22] in infrastructure strategy to engage the public
[8:25] to identify the needs and preferences of user groups for the sports fields and courts across
[8:32] the city. As part of the city's commitment to this initiative, we have initiated a conditional
[8:37] offer to purchase a strategic property on King Road to advance that opportunity. Council has also
[8:43] completed the arena and infrastructure strategy and are now looking at opportunities to implement
[8:49] the plan and to bring more ice sheets to our community. And we're also in the midst of developing
[8:54] the aquatic and infrastructure strategy and the Mill Lake Master Plan is also advancing through
[9:01] the engagement process and we're looking at early winds to start implementing the plan as soon
[9:06] as possible.
[9:14] And now under the principle of sustainable and safe city, it speaks to council
[9:19] wanting to keep our residents and businesses safe and addressing social issues that impact our
[9:25] community. The initial speak to is investment in community fire fighting and response. Council
[9:32] is invested in enhanced community safety through hiring additional career firefighters, staffing
[9:39] medical squad units at Hall 1 and 6, and adding a heavy rescue unit, a wild land unit, and
[9:46] a rehabilitation unit to the fire fighting repertoire of apparatus complement to better serve
[9:51] community. The fire rescue services had one of this busy
[9:55] years and responding to more than 14,000
[9:59] incidences and works closely with our Abbotsward Police Department,
[10:03] finalile teams and many, many other service providers.
[10:07] In addition, the city has made significant progress in addressing homelessness
[10:11] and signed a memorandum of understanding with the province to advance both the heart
[10:15] and heart programs through the BC government to better serve those who are experiencing
[10:21] homelessness and collaborated with the provincial partners to secure over 150 additional
[10:28] shelter spaces in the community. The heart program is about a new way to coordinate teams with
[10:34] service providers to support in-campment responses and the heart program is also critical to ensure
[10:40] additional housing and shelter projects are opened and available as soon as possible.
[10:48] Under the
[10:48] The principle of vibrant and growing economies about the city being the regional hub of creativity and innovation were talent and investment business thrives.
[10:59] This is demonstrated through the record-breaking construction values and a building permit construction values of approximately $784 million, which shows the growth of the city and the different construction projects by the private sector.
[11:15] I believe it's this success of this achieving this goal is based on the foundation of having a great
[11:22] council strategic plan, a progressive official community plan, clear zoning bylaws, master plans,
[11:29] and neighborhood plans with servicing requirements which help the developer when reviewing
[11:33] building in our community with better understanding of their performance and predictabilities.
[11:38] We're also continuing our efforts with business processes and reviews such as with our
[11:43] single-family dwelling building permits and tenant improvements, and now our Dapper Program,
[11:50] which a development approval process review, which we're going to speak about later today
[11:55] through our planning department, which is a process in order to get product in the ground
[11:59] as the sooner and faster. In addition, we have also been directed by Council to develop
[12:06] a truck parking strategy to increase commercial truck parking spaces and options and habits
[12:12] The strategy started in 2024 and was completed in early 2025 and we are now working on its implementation.
[12:20] This is being accomplished by updating the official community plan to add light industrial land use designations along Fraser Highway
[12:26] and Brad Narrowed updates to the zoning bylaw to be more permissive for truck parking opportunities
[12:32] and commencing a pilot project for select industrial streets.
[12:37] Under the principle of organizational excellence and integrity, the city's goal is that
[12:42] Abbott's Ford has a strong, fiscal discipline, consistent governance, and aligned operations.
[12:49] And under that principle, Council has secured more than 100 million in grants in 2024,
[12:54] and secured the largest single grant of $76.6 million for the enhancements at Peraltown
[13:00] Pumstation by the EC government.
[13:02] The enhancements are to help with flood proofing the pump station, making it more resilient,
[13:09] fish-friendly, back-up power source, and all of that will also help protect highway
[13:13] one and the farms and the businesses and the prairies.
[13:18] We've also started planning for the future by Council launching the Abbots Forward 2050
[13:24] Plan and update to the city's official community plan which will guide the growth of our
[13:28] city for the next 25 years.
[13:31] This project is foundational to the city just as council strategic plan is to help achieve that vision for the city
[13:38] the city expects to complete this project by the end of 2025
[13:41] and then we'll get started on the master planning for infrastructure and services for the community
[13:47] and also incorporate that information into a long term capital and operating plan and a long term financial plan including
[13:55] DCC updates as required.
[13:57] So, with that high-level overview and comprehensive list of accomplishments, I'd now like to turn the presentation over to Mr. Passatiah to speak to and about the 2024 financial report regarding the actual versus a noted expenditures and including the 2024 audit it financial statements for your consideration.
[14:20] Thanks.
[14:29] Thank you, Mr. Sparenese.
[14:31] Good afternoon, Mayor and Council.
[14:32] I'm here to present a quick overview
[14:34] of the financial result for 2024 for city of Abbasford.
[14:40] Council may recall that data report was presented
[14:42] to Council already on May 6, 2025,
[14:46] when the auditor was presented present
[14:49] and they presented the audited finding report.
[14:52] To start, the overall financial result for 2024
[14:57] were favorable results despite managed.
[15:00] IJNHU and other external factors. The city ended the year with the operating surplus of $3.7 million in
[15:07] our main fund, which is mainly property taxation. Overall, accounting surplus, which is a piece
[15:14] of surplus for the year was $66.2 million, that is mainly made up of cash and non-cash. But
[15:22] majority of this is related to cities investment in infrastructures, such as civic buildings, roads,
[15:29] sidewalks, water mains, sewer mains, parks, et cetera.
[15:34] Cities net financial asset increased slightly,
[15:37] gains slightly compared to 2023.
[15:40] We are continue to invest our funds into capital reserves.
[15:45] Another $4.4 million reduction in our long term debt as well.
[15:51] Overall, total revenue for the year was $419 million.
[15:55] And property taxation is the main source of revenue for the city,
[16:01] which is that $198 million for 2024, followed by fees and charges that represent $25% which
[16:08] is approximately $100 million. In terms of expenditures,
[16:16] total for the year was $350 million,
[16:19] that's not including amortization or depreciation for the year. Police is $232 per cent at
[16:28] $72 million in during and operations ended at $54 million, which is roughly about 17% of our overall expenditures.
[16:41] Net financial asset, they showcase the financial health of the city, many demonstrate how strong the city is in order to manage its short and long-term financial obligations.
[16:53] for the city of Avisford, net financial assets are continued to grow since 2011 and ended
[16:59] the year at $382 million. I would like to highlight for council that this girl will
[17:05] start to normalize or possibly decline, start to see a decrease in this, in the coming year
[17:11] at the city start to invest in our long term infrastructure, meaning more liquor cash or liquor
[17:18] asset will be translated or will be converted into tangible capital assets. This is completely
[17:26] a normal process and when it comes to net financial assets that's expected in the long term.
[17:35] As we go through our overall capital reserve, overall the city has approximately $314 million in
[17:41] capital reserves as of December 31st, 2024. For the general capital reserve, all funds plus
[17:49] more are already committed. As you can see on this chart, we already committed $23 million
[17:56] access of what we already have in this. And that is, for some of the council's strategic
[18:01] government, some of the major projects that city will see in the coming years. As for water, waste
[18:07] water airport, they ended the year with the health years or balances, majority of these funds
[18:13] will be allocated as for long term master plans in those areas.
[18:21] As for long term debt, for
[18:22] city of Aresford, the city ended the year at $33 million subject to other debt approval for the next
[18:30] few years, the city will pay off the remaining debt by 2032. We pay approximately 4.4 million
[18:37] dollar towards debt principle when it comes to this outstanding debt.
[18:44] To summarize the operating surplus in the main general fund was 3.7 million dollars.
[18:51] We continue to see strength in our net financial assets and developer cost charges also known
[18:59] as DCC ended the year at $150 million.
[19:02] With that, the recommendation is that comes to the approved at $20, $24 and your report.
[19:07] Myself and city manager were happy to answer any question constantly at.
[19:18] Recommendation has been moved by Councillor Loan and seconded by Councillor Drieson and any comments or questions.
[19:29] No, things look good.
[19:34] Just to on the be serves, I think we're just maybe we could give the public just a little bit of an
[19:44] glimpse into, you know, we've got 300 and just shy of 400 million in reserves, but that
[19:53] also we've identified how many moving forward we've got billions of dollars worth of assets
[20:00] that we want to build. And so when you say it's going to dip slightly on our long term financial
[20:07] plan we've got some projects that we want to move forward. Maybe we could just do a little bit
[20:11] deeper dive, just we take it for granted that people know and I think maybe people are listening
[20:17] then they just I wouldn't mind you explaining that a little bit further.
[20:21] Thank you, Mr. Mayor. In terms of our caplers are when it comes to waters or and
[20:26] airport reserves, those are, we are collecting funds based on their 20 years master plans and
[20:34] as you can see on this chart, the uncommitted funds are relatively healthy when it comes to those
[20:41] But given our infrastructure is relatively younger in those areas, those will be completed in the next 20 plus years.
[20:49] So eventually we will see a lot more investment when it comes to infrastructure for those.
[20:55] Our main fund, which is General Capital Reserve, and that is related to taxation funds.
[21:00] And that is directly related to our net financial asset, the one you're referring to as well.
[21:06] The city has a long-term plan, which will, city will see $1.9 billion of dollars being invested.
[21:14] That was based on $20-20 dollars, so that number could be upward towards $4 billion.
[21:20] That's for the new infrastructure.
[21:22] In terms of replacing over $5.7 million infrastructure, that funding we will be relying on
[21:30] general capital reserves. So, as you can see, we already were committed, but that is a multi-year
[21:35] plan. That's one reason. It does tie in with a long-term financial plan, and in our annual
[21:43] financial planning, where we actually set aside or console approved 1 percent infrastructure
[21:48] level to manage our long-term infrastructure. Hopefully, that provides some information.
[21:55] Great. Thank you. I appreciate that. Because some people say, oh, it's just a rainy day
[21:58] It's just there for you to use at will and it's not it's legislated and but there is a plan
[22:04] And so I always tell people to take a look at what the commit that is take a look at our responsibility is and then if you want to relate that to your home
[22:13] Start taking the zeros off with principles are the same so we are in a healthy spot, but that's
[22:20] That's come at a
[22:22] Discipline and focus and it may cannot deviate from that and so we do have
[22:30] But we have to always keep our eye on the fiscal discipline because we can get ourselves into some hot water, if we're not careful, and we're going to see some tightening up, especially at the federal and provincial levels, because that key night was not on the bottom line. And we're going to pay a price for that. And unfortunately we don't want to go down that path.
[22:57] And so I'd probably said more than I should.
[23:00] Politically, I could get into hot water here.
[23:04] So appreciate your guidance and your work on this.
[23:10] Councillor Gibson, thank you, Mayor.
[23:13] Could we get a bit of an elaboration on amenity cost charges?
[23:19] Please.
[23:23] Through the chair, I just to clarify, Councillor Gibson,
[23:27] is that related to overcoming a new ACC by a law which will be effective as of every first 2026?
[23:35] Yeah, that's my understanding but the report doesn't speak to them very well.
[23:41] If at all, I disagree as to how the process of initiation will come into effect for the benefit
[23:46] of our community. Through the mayor, yes, those as for the ACC,
[23:53] a manatee cost charge of those will come in play as of February 1, 2026 and any charges collected
[24:01] under those will be used for amenities, for parks, recreation and for trails for those purpose.
[24:14] I don't see any other questions, so I'll call the question. All those in favor?
[24:19] The motion carries and I'll give you a few seconds to get back to your desk
[24:36] and I will turn it over
[24:38] staff at the next item please.
[24:42] Thank you Mr. Mayor next report your worship is 7.2 to present
[24:46] cities 2024 statement of financial information also known as a Soviet report. A statement
[24:52] of financial information presentation to concern involves presenting the cities municipal
[24:57] municipalities of financial information for the year, including audited financial statement
[25:02] and schedule of employee combinations and payment to suppliers for the year. The financial
[25:08] Information Act requires every local government and B.C. to smith console approved statement
[25:13] of financial information to the Ministry of Housing and municipal affairs by June 30th of
[25:19] each year. In 2024, the number of staff with the remunition greater than 75,000 increase
[25:25] to 503 compared to 460 in 2023. That's a change of 43 employees. It needs to be highlighted
[25:33] the threshold of 75,000 for Sophie Employee Report has not changed since 2002.
[25:41] If the threshold had increased by average annual consumer price index CPI over the last
[25:46] 20 years, the new threshold would have been approximately 12,000 for 12,24,
[25:53] not 75,000, which will greatly reduce the number of employees in access of this threshold.
[25:59] As for good services purchased by the city, the Sophie reports includes a summary of payments made to our outside organizations, which total more than 25,000 for the reporting year, and it is reported on cash basis, including taxes.
[26:15] Total payment made to suppliers in 2024 were $262 million, and it includes payment made for some of the major ongoing projects.
[26:25] The statements up of financial information is consistent with the city of Aavisport's Council
[26:30] strategic plan to achieve organizational, organizational excellence and integrity.
[26:36] The information including, included in your package, provide transparency and accountability
[26:41] to the public regarding municipalities financial activity for 2024.
[26:47] With that, the recommendation is that council approved the 2024 statement of financial
[26:51] information. Staff is available to answer any question. Console may have on this report.
[26:58] The recommendations have been moved by Councillor Driesson and seconded by Councillor
[27:06] Sidhu and any comments or questions.
[27:11] I'll call the question and all those in favor and the
[27:15] motion carries. The next item, before we get to the next item, I believe Councillor
[27:20] work in as a statement.
[27:25] Yes, thank you all. I have to declare a conflict of interest on this item for
[27:30] our reasons previously stated on the record. Thank you.
[27:45] I'll have staff introduce the next item please. Next is item 7.3. This is to tell a
[27:51] communication and tenest structure application for 3, 3, 2, 0, highway 11 and the director of
[27:57] development planning will provide a brief introduction. Thank you very much. The subject plans are
[28:01] located in the Abbey Mission Highway near the intersection with Hazelwood Avenue.
[28:07] This time, the applicant has requested authorization to install a 35-meter monopole
[28:12] telecommunication antenna structure on the subject lands.
[28:16] Subject lands are impacted by the stream sites' protection by a law.
[28:20] However, the sighting of this does comply with the setback requirements of that by a law.
[28:25] The proposed design is generally a high quality and the monopole design is consistent
[28:29] with Council's policy with respect to this topic.
[28:32] City staff have no concerns in recommend the Council
[28:34] proceed as highlighted in the recommendation.
[28:39] Recommendations have been moved by Councillor SIDU
[28:42] and seconded by Councillor Trieson,
[28:44] and any comments or questions.
[28:48] All those in favor?
[28:50] The motion carries.
[28:52] And we can have Councillor Workington brought back in.
[29:28] We need some music.
[29:36] Great, I'll have staff proceed with the next item, please.
[29:39] Next item 7.4.
[29:41] This is also a telecommunications and 10-structure application for 3-0, 8-0-downs road.
[29:47] Simply glance are located in the western part of the city, north of the urban development
[29:51] boundary.
[29:52] Again, this is a proposal for a 40-meter monopole telecommunication.
[30:00] Occasion has been positioned in the southern part of the site next to a cluster of trees and the intent here is to service the urban development to the south.
[30:08] The proposed monopole design is again consistent with council policy.
[30:12] Staff have no concerns with this proposal and recommend council proceed as highlight in the recommendation.
[30:20] Recommendations by Councillor Lowell and second up by Councillor Cupson.
[30:24] Any comments or questions?
[30:27] All those in favour?
[30:29] The motion carries, nobody can accuse us of not being connected.
[30:38] Next day, don't please.
[30:39] Next year, we're excited in 7.5 regarding proposed by a lot of changes to the city's regulations for short-term rental accommodations.
[30:46] And the Director at Community Planning, Ms. Carol, will provide an introduction.
[30:52] I'm sorry to be able to clicker.
[31:00] Thank you, get afternoon.
[31:02] I'm here seeking direction regarding short-term rental accommodations.
[31:05] and I'll just start with some contacts, talk about proposed by-law amendments, next steps, and recommendation.
[31:12] So in the fall of 2023, the province passed the short-term rental accommodations act, and two of the provisions of that act that I'm highlighting here are one that short-term rentals can occur in the principal resident or an accessory dwelling unit,
[31:31] And that short-term rentals need to have a provincial registration number, subject to municipal businesses, business licenses, where they're required.
[31:42] In office for currently short-term rentals are regulated as a bed and breakfast.
[31:48] And by definition, a bed and breakfast must be located in a principal dwelling unit and is not permitted on a lot that has a secondary suite garden suite or co-chow.
[31:59] And there is a requirement to obtain a business license.
[32:05] So the issue that we're facing is that short-term rental providers and
[32:10] habits for a can to obtain a business license if they have a secondary suite.
[32:15] And the results of that is that of approximately 70 business license applications
[32:20] that the city received prior to May 1st, about 25 of them have asked
[32:25] commission their speeds, which of course is contrary to the city's housing target schools.
[32:34] So, staff are recommending some by-law amendments to remedy this situation.
[32:39] One is to remove that, remove that in breakfast and replace with short-term rental accommodation,
[32:46] and add principal residents as a definition in that context.
[32:51] We're also proposing to permit short-term rentals in a single detached dwelling or a duplex plus one accessory unit, and we're proposing that we require one additional on-site parking space for short-term rentals.
[33:09] In addition to what's already required based on the building structure.
[33:15] We're also proposing that the ad short-term rental accommodation as a permitted accessory
[33:20] use throughout single-detached and duplex zones.
[33:25] And for the business license file law, we're recommending an amendment that would require
[33:29] a business license for short-term rentals and that that application include a proof of
[33:36] principal residence, a fire safety plan, and a parking plan.
[33:41] So next steps if Council is immunable would be to prepare communication materials for staff and for the public and
[33:49] bring back by loss for consideration of adoption.
[33:54] This slide is our recommendations and I'm glad to answer any questions.
[34:02] Thank you. You made a complex issue a little easier to understand and I appreciate the work on this.
[34:11] moved by counselors to do and seconded by
[34:14] counselor Parkman and any comments or questions.
[34:19] I'd appreciate the work and the creative way to
[34:23] try and address.
[34:26] There's always unintended consequences to new legislation and
[34:29] and so to be nimble to address those things when we see a problem. I appreciate that very much.
[34:35] I'll call the question, all those in favor.
[34:38] The motion carries. Thank you. Next item, please.
[34:41] Next is item 7.6 regarding the development application process review in response to continued
[34:49] and sustained high levels of developing council-directed staff to undertake a development
[34:53] application process review similar to that undertaking for the building department.
[34:58] The city retained neels and strategies to undertake a detailed assessment and to identify
[35:02] opportunities to improve the efficiency and responsiveness of the existing development
[35:07] approval system and fine opportunities to enhance and align customer service with industry
[35:12] expectation and standards.
[35:14] The review is now complete.
[35:15] Mr. Nielsen is here today to provide an overview of his review and findings.
[35:20] In consideration of Mr. Nielsen's findings, staff have also completed an implementation plan.
[35:25] Following Mr. Nielsen's presentation, the Director of Development Planning Mr. Collins
[35:29] will outline next steps for staff with respect to implementation.
[35:32] I'll turn it over to Mr. Nielsen for his presentation.
[35:37] Thank you very much, Mr. Neil, and thank you, your worship and members of Council for
[35:41] having me here today.
[35:42] It's always nice to be in front of Ambassador Council, especially the day after the Cannot
[35:46] swing.
[35:47] So that's, you look very colorful.
[35:49] I was going to say, you make us let the little underdressed, but we're in a celebratory mood.
[35:54] Thank you.
[35:55] And well deserved.
[35:57] Your worship, I will do a very brief presentation.
[36:00] There are a number of slides where I'm going to go through them fairly quickly, then of course
[36:04] to answer any questions. Council may have. I'll talk a little bit about the purpose of the scope of the review.
[36:09] I'll talk about the approach that I took as they consulted along with my colleague,
[36:13] Shelly Hearst, the Weedook. I will talk very briefly about the courage system that's in place right now as it relates to development approval process.
[36:21] I'll talk about opportunities for change and then finally some recommendations that are made to the city.
[36:27] With respect to the purpose of scope, your worship.
[36:29] Really, it's, we started off this review to identify opportunities to strengthen the system we have in place right now for receiving examining and approving applications for development.
[36:43] The effort really reflected the commitment the atmosphere has and that you've demonstrated in different areas of service to customer service and continuous improvement.
[36:52] And it was undertaken also in a context as the Council will appreciate of significant growth in British Columbia,
[37:00] but it now is for a particular of affordability pressures and of legislative change from the provincial government as it relates to the legislative development of a process and housing regulation in British Columbia cities.
[37:14] set of specific objectives that we put into the review and that we reference several times
[37:20] against the different recommendations speeds.
[37:22] We want to ensure that we have a very fast or as fast as possible review.
[37:30] Permission to get their approval is quickly as possible. We want to make sure that we're efficient and how we use our resources. We're not creating duplication. We're filling gaps, but in an efficient way. We want to look at measuring. So what kind of data are we generating, what kind of data are we getting? So we continue to strive for continuous improvement.
[37:46] Customer experience obviously is important and everything the city does and development approvals are no exception to that. Transparency, very important for transparency for and the sense of transparency for applicants for different types of development approvals.
[37:59] to understand how decisions are being made and understand where their applications are going
[38:04] to be at any particular time in the process.
[38:07] And the filing clarity and predictability, really speaking about uncertainty there and one thing
[38:13] that the development industry and all applicants will speak to as the importance of certainty.
[38:17] In fact, several applicants will speak, I would suggest to certainty being even more important
[38:23] than speed. If we know exactly what to expect in the system and we can rely on that,
[38:27] We can tailor our process, we can deal with our consultants, our subordinates, our financing,
[38:33] we can line all that up to meet that timeline.
[38:37] The scope of the review, your worship included, processes that are focused on our range of
[38:44] applications, all the types of applications you would expect everything from rezoning, even
[38:48] official community plan changes, to development permits, development variants, permits,
[38:52] subdivision and so forth.
[38:53] And we wanted to examine the role of different city departments in the process review and
[38:59] there are two in particular that are important to examine the first planning and development services.
[39:03] It's the most important in this respect and because it is the most heavily involved in owns the system as a work.
[39:09] But also development engineering which plays a very important role as part of engineering services.
[39:14] Engineering actually facilities services.
[39:16] And so that's the other department that we looked carefully at.
[39:20] The approach and aid state work plan was followed, your worship, we had to introduce with all staff who are involved in this system.
[39:26] That was important. We looked at best practices from across British Columbia, particularly.
[39:31] We had consultation with developers and industry professionals. We met a number of times and we went with a number of different applicants and developers.
[39:38] We had consultation with two of your committees, two of the city committees.
[39:42] And we also, one point, which isn't listed on this slide, we did make a presentation of graph findings to city staff involved.
[39:48] So we consult with the city staff and that we went back to staff and shared all of our findings and answered questions.
[39:53] The current system, I won't spend any time in this year worship only to mention that it is laid out in the report in detail that reports a very long document as you'll notice.
[40:02] So we talked about the purpose of the function, why we have development approvals and what the rule of the city is in providing development approvals.
[40:09] We talk about the legislative framework that is the framework from both the provincial level, but also the framework is that exists at the local level in terms of bylaws.
[40:17] Staffing all the different staffing who are in the rules and responsibilities of staff in the two different departments,
[40:23] the approval process itself, the steps that applicants must go through as follow in order to receive their
[40:29] applicant, their approval, the technology that we use.
[40:32] In some cases, the technology changes we would like to see there that is in place today.
[40:37] Information applicants as well.
[40:39] The city generates a lot of information, a lot of guidance to applicants, which is a part of the process.
[40:44] And then finally our statistics that we collect and we do that so that we can improve our measurement we can continue to improve
[40:51] the speed of which we're providing application, applicant service and also the types of metrics that we want to
[40:58] and the KPIs that we want to identify there.
[41:02] The report lists out a number of different opportunities.
[41:05] I'm going to list these very quickly and then I'm going to jump to the recommendations because the recommendations
[41:09] are worship correspond to these opportunities and we've divided the opportunities into two parts.
[41:14] the first is for the planning to development services department and the second is for development
[41:18] engineering. Opportunities relate to development inquiry meetings. These are the meetings that
[41:24] applicants have with the city prior to submitting an application. File management, once an application
[41:32] is submitted to the city. How do we manage that file to make sure it gets to the right people at the
[41:36] right time? Application tracking. I talked earlier about transparency being very important. How do we
[41:42] track applications through the system and how do we show applicants where their application
[41:46] is at any particular time? Target time lines. Do we have specific targets that we aspire
[41:52] to that we want to reach targets about how long it's going to take us to review and
[41:58] applications and provide approvals? The development application review team is a multi-disciplinary
[42:04] team that city has in place to bring together staff from different departments to focus on
[42:09] individual application that have implications for the different departments.
[42:13] It is a best practice.
[42:15] It is something that is relatively unique to Apple's words being emulated by other places.
[42:19] We think it's an excellent thing to have in place.
[42:20] We've identified a few things that we would suggest the city consider changing to make
[42:24] an even stronger.
[42:26] Streaming applications at other point, how do we ensure that we are focusing our efforts and
[42:31] resources on those applications that Council deems to be most important?
[42:35] Review letters.
[42:36] We'll talk about review letters. They're the letters that go to the applicant once the application has received a review and they outline all of the conditions that must be met in order to receive approval.
[42:48] Delegation of authority counsel makes a number of decisions and cannot delegate authority for decision-making or certain things,
[42:54] but it can in other cases and we like to do that whenever possible in order to expedite the approval.
[43:00] A 30 of five managers, every file gets a file manager, it's important that the file manager
[43:05] understands their role in the system and has the authority to make decisions.
[43:09] Templates and Professional Alliance, how do we give guidance to applicants that they can
[43:14] give to their consultants to provide the reports that will expedite the review process.
[43:19] Technology, how do we harness technology to ensure that we move quickly through the system
[43:23] and then internal support?
[43:25] How do we support our staff to make sure that they can make decisions?
[43:28] and make sure that big information flows across tests.
[43:31] Very quickly, you're worse at development engineering.
[43:34] There are just four opportunities listed in here.
[43:36] The first talks about the role and the authority
[43:38] of the development engineering section.
[43:40] We'll talk about that.
[43:41] The second or late hits.
[43:42] Those are asks that come late and later
[43:45] that expect it in the review process.
[43:48] Development and servicing agreements
[43:49] have it for a little bit unique in this respect.
[43:51] You have two different types of agreements
[43:52] that are required of applicants.
[43:54] We'll talk about that.
[43:56] And then the quality of applications that
[43:57] comes through the system out, so important to ensure that applicants understand and are given
[44:02] the tools to be able to provide very high quality applications.
[44:06] You're worth it while both through and just touch on some of the key recommendations listed
[44:10] here.
[44:10] The report lays on all of the recommendations I've just taken extra from those and the ones
[44:14] that in my view are the most important to communicate at this point.
[44:18] We'll start first of all with the planning and development services.
[44:22] The first, as it relates to development and acquiring meetings, those meetings I mentioned
[44:26] are the ones that happened before an application is submitted.
[44:30] They right now at the city and other places where they are provided, they tend to be very
[44:35] quick affairs, they tend to be free of charge, they get stock and easily get inundated
[44:40] with responding to these, they, so it's a way to kind of clog up the system as a were.
[44:44] We're suggesting some changes to require a pre-application meeting, which is a development
[44:50] inquiry meeting that is much more than that.
[44:53] It is a very robust process that brings together key staff from...
[45:00] With the applicant, or to review concepts, I should say, with the applicant prior to an application being submitted.
[45:06] So we believe that it's a best practice that is a place in many places, and it tends to set a little bit of a higher bar so that those individuals who are thinking about applying tend not to go through a pre-application meeting until they're quite certain they wish to apply.
[45:21] One of the reasons, one of the ways that we enforce that bar is that we attach a pre-application meeting fee.
[45:26] We've suggested that be $1100, that is based on a review of the same fees across the lower
[45:32] mainland.
[45:33] It is also something that would be credited back to the applicant if they do proceed with
[45:37] in a six month period.
[45:39] Again, it's a way to try to keep from the system applications, perhaps, not robust, not
[45:46] serious enough, those kinds of things, so that the applications that are in the system are
[45:49] the ones that really provide the housing and the other kinds of developments that the community
[45:54] wishes.
[45:57] File management, we've suggested here
[45:59] that once an application is submitted, that a file is assigned to a file manager within two weeks.
[46:07] Sometimes things get a little backed up and there's a whole bunch of legitimate reasons for that backup.
[46:12] We've suggested there are some ways, however, to ensure that within two weeks it's with a file manager,
[46:17] so that we expedite that as much as possible.
[46:20] We do like the application tracking, as I mentioned, it's a way for staff to track where the
[46:26] applications are, but also more importantly, perhaps, for the applicants to understand where
[46:30] the applications are at any particular time. They do also benefit as they reduce the amount of
[46:36] time staff have to respond to inquiries from applicants. We're asking about where the applications
[46:41] are, so by putting this type of data, by putting these types of this type of information into
[46:46] online system applicants can see that quickly. Once we start to get that data, once we start
[46:52] to get that capacity in place, we can then start also to measure how long it's taking us
[46:56] in a more robust way, measure more robustly, how long it's taking us consistently to
[47:01] review and to issue applications for development, different types of permits. And that allows
[47:07] this then if we wish to start to identify and even publish target timelines so that we
[47:12] has that certainly we also make ourselves more attractive as a place in which to develop.
[47:17] So we've suggested that the city create publisher report annually on a set of timeline targets
[47:23] for milestones.
[47:26] The Development Application Review tonight I mentioned earlier as a team is a means weekly
[47:31] as a team that comes together with representatives of various departments, all of whom have
[47:35] some role to play in reviewing applications for development.
[47:38] Right now, all applications for development come to the development application review team.
[47:44] We think that's a notable in some respects, but it's a little bit overkill.
[47:47] What we're suggesting is that we streamline that a little bit so that people who are participating
[47:51] in that meeting can be a little bit more focused on those specific applications that have the potential
[47:57] to create conflicts between and among departments.
[48:00] Because the purpose of that team really is to sort out how the different departments are going
[48:04] work together and which compromises and determine how they're going to allow the development
[48:09] to proceed through the system. So it's important to get that done quickly. We can get
[48:13] it done more quickly if we focus specifically on those types of developments. Streaming applications,
[48:19] right now, Abbottford, like many municipalities has a first-in first-out system. That system
[48:25] says, in essence, when I submitted an application to you, you will look at mine in the order
[48:30] in which I submitted it. Irrespective of the magnitude of the type of development behind me or in front
[48:34] me. That is a very egalitarian approach. It is also an approach that recognizes that every
[48:41] application is important to the city. However, it is an approach that doesn't recognize
[48:46] that the reality is that not all applications are equally important to the city. Some applications
[48:51] based on council priorities, based on the need to the community, will be more importantly more
[48:56] important than others. What we are suggesting here is that we try to parse or try to pull apart
[49:02] that first-in-first-out system and we use our staff and assign staff in a way that we have a separate
[49:06] line for very simple applications to get them done and out of the systems so people are
[49:10] waiting for simple permits that we have our main applications and then we also then have a third
[49:16] line if you will for applications that can form two or pick up on specific council priorities
[49:22] and that's for council to decide it could be related to affordable housing or whatever council wishes.
[49:28] Review letters, I noted earlier that every application, every major application, gets a review
[49:32] letter through the review process.
[49:35] We want to always make sure that there's one review letter, and that means it's to make
[49:39] sure there's only one review letter, and there aren't multiple review letters that tell
[49:43] applicants the conditions they must meet is going to take a little bit of time, so we want
[49:47] to have that in place.
[49:48] We want to have a comprehensive, we want to have templates and checklists that staff can use
[49:52] applicants can use to read through the review letters, ensure that they've addressed everything
[49:58] in the review letters so that when they resubmit the information or when they submit additional
[50:02] information, the likelihood of having a very complete second submission is very strong.
[50:09] We've also been because putting together one review letter could be a little bit more time
[50:13] consuming, we've suggested that file managers use their authority to communicate in advance
[50:20] of your best letters with different applicants and to let them know the kinds of things that
[50:25] we know we're going to be coming in the review letters so that they can start to address
[50:28] them.
[50:30] Delgation Authority, we suggest that the city maximize the delegation of approval authority
[50:34] to staff, hold for development permits, minor development variants, permits, and all of
[50:38] their permits for which approval may be delegated.
[50:41] As a way simply to recognize the council, it's very important for council to hold on
[50:45] that authority and, in fact, a must hold on to the authority for resilience and other types
[50:49] of applications.
[50:50] But some types of applications, staff, you have a very qualified staff and they're able
[50:54] to look at those and understand Council's policies and how they may, that the room within
[51:00] which those policies that are acceptable and for staff then to approve those on behalf
[51:05] of the city.
[51:06] Templates and Professional Reliances, we always want to make sure that we provide guidance
[51:11] to applicants and their consultants so that the reports that come in in response to the
[51:15] requirements to see puts out are easy to go through and easy to make decisions on.
[51:21] There is a provision that municipalities have to require peer reviews of different reports
[51:29] that come in different works of consultants.
[51:32] And where the city deems that a particular report does not pass master,
[51:37] there's not kind of a registered level of standard that the city wishes it to see.
[51:41] the city can require the applicant to get a peer-reviewed
[51:45] habit peer review at the applicant's cost.
[51:48] That's not something the city's like to do regularly,
[51:51] but it's an important authority to have in place so that we can continue
[51:55] to allow things to flow through,
[51:56] without getting too hung up on a piece of work that is not
[52:00] that is not meeting the city's needs or standards.
[52:03] There was a very quickly then with respect to development engineering.
[52:07] Right now, development engineering is the very important group
[52:10] the city that will look at applications for development and will provide comments and information back
[52:17] and our link conditions back on the works and services that must be provided by the applicant in order
[52:23] to receive approval for the development. Development Engineering Technique.
[52:30] For part right now, that section is part of the broader engineering services.
[52:36] When applications come in, a present, what has been the case in, average for does not entirely
[52:42] unique in this respect, what has been the cases that applications come in, they go to development
[52:46] engineering, developing engineering, then fans out those applications to all of the other
[52:51] engineering groups, the utilities, the roads and so forth. That results in quite a bit of delay
[52:58] because of those folks, and those different groups,
[53:01] don't spend their time typically focusing
[53:02] on development applications.
[53:04] They're focused on other things,
[53:06] ensuring that the city has the worst of services in place,
[53:09] risk is managed to so forth.
[53:11] So it takes a lot of time for those referrals to come back.
[53:13] In most cases, we know those referrals aren't
[53:16] adding much value, because a lot of the stuff
[53:19] is fairly straightforward.
[53:21] There are going to be cases when developments come in
[53:23] that have particularly unique or challenging infrastructure
[53:27] applications and needs and in those cases we're going to want the development technicians and
[53:32] engineering technicians to indeed pass it on to the engineers in the different sections of engineering
[53:37] and provide and receive input back and guidance back from those engineers. So we always want to
[53:42] allow for that but a good 80% of the application should be manageable and be able to address
[53:47] to be addressed by the development engineering technicians which will cut a lot of time out of the
[53:52] system and really also emphasize and amplify the role of the development engineering team.
[53:59] So we've suggested then that the city strengthened the role of this development engineering
[54:03] section and leading and not merely coordinating the works and services review of applications.
[54:08] And we have a tool that we've laid out in the report which is a development review process protocol
[54:13] to acknowledge the authority of the development engineering section and to assign clear roles
[54:18] and limits to other groups and engineering and regional utilities.
[54:20] We said threshold in place beyond which we go to the other groups,
[54:26] shy of which we stay with development engineering.
[54:29] Late hits, we suggested that the city create a late hits policy
[54:32] to limit the imposition of additional demands on development
[54:35] performance after comprehensive letters have been issued.
[54:39] Development service in agreement,
[54:40] development and service in agreement, excuse me,
[54:43] it's very common.
[54:44] It's a big witness across municipalities that when applications come in,
[54:48] typically get a servicing agreement with the city which lays out and takes security deposits
[54:54] for the types of works of services that applicants must provide in order to proceed with their
[54:59] development. Habit for the little bit unique that it has two different agreements. One is a
[55:03] development agreement which happens as a condition of zoning and then the other is a servicing
[55:07] agreement which happens later in the subdivision building permit process. That's a little bit
[55:12] difficult in the sense that it puts towards the end of the process of the servicing agreement. The
[55:17] more robust set of requirements and at the front end it allows a later touch as a
[55:24] word. That later touch favors applicants who are more interested in selling
[55:30] their in flipping their their lots or not proceeding with development after
[55:34] they've received rezoning. We're suggesting that the city has had some review
[55:38] of this done by another technical consulting group as well on this some time ago.
[55:42] We're suggesting that we replace these two separate agreements with a simple
[55:46] service and agreement that would be done as a condition of rezoning, would move everything
[55:50] to the front end, which would add time to the front end, but would save time to the back end.
[55:54] But more importantly, we would also then ensure that the developers who are going through
[55:58] our system have met and laid out and paid their deposits on all of the service and agreement
[56:04] issues early in the process, and that would want to continue in order to recover their investment
[56:09] would quickly go to the developments they had approval in that.
[56:12] So that is the standard approach across new
[56:15] municipalities.
[56:15] We're simply suggesting that
[56:16] average food follow that approach.
[56:19] I will pass it now.
[56:20] Your worship over to Blake, who's going
[56:23] to make some comments on implementation.
[56:31] I think I would like to say thank you to Mr.
[56:33] Neilson, but there's a lot of recommendations in here.
[56:35] And potentially a lot of work moving forward.
[56:37] So thank you, Mr. Neilson.
[56:39] As councilors heard, there's a number of
[56:41] recommendations contained within this report.
[56:43] And by way of summary, there's 16 in total for
[56:46] two divisions dealing with development to add the city of Abbotsford.
[56:50] When staff reviews those opportunities that have been laid out by Mr. Nielsen, we kind of
[56:53] cluster those recommendations into three kind of categories, expanded use of technology,
[56:59] business innovation and process modernization and communications.
[57:02] The last of that is simply the tools that we use to do our job and how we can utilize those
[57:07] tools better to achieve our objectives.
[57:12] 16 recommendations is a lot and unfortunately moving from where we are today to executing
[57:17] those is going to take some time, so it's subsequent to receiving the report, the first step
[57:22] for staff was to review those recommendations with committees and others involved in development
[57:26] process to verify those outcomes on those recommendations. Staff did approach two different committees
[57:32] and the urban development institutes on group that the city of Abbott'sford hosts to review those
[57:38] recommendations with the consultant. And as a result of those, I can say that there was a general tone
[57:43] of optimism and committees and appreciation for both wanting to complete this exercise
[57:48] and the recommendations coming forward.
[57:52] Unfortunately, we won't be able to do it all at the same time.
[57:54] So, subsequent to confirming those recommendations, staff reviewed all of the recommendations,
[57:59] plus some additional opportunities that staff felt there was,
[58:03] to come up with the short-term priorities that could come out of the DAPA review.
[58:07] The slide in front of Council today is the five key outcomes that staff believe can be delivered
[58:12] in the short term, and they are anticipated to provide the greatest benefit to our customers,
[58:17] whether that's in terms of timing, information, sharing, collaboration, et cetera.
[58:23] So by way of summary, the five short term priorities is staff are recommending to council
[58:27] that we move forward with, or one, the digitization and modernization of development application
[58:31] processes. This is simply wrapping our digital processes into every single application that
[58:37] that we have at the city of Abbotsburg, and then putting that online forum where developers can
[58:41] follow their applications moving through the system.
[58:45] Number two on the list is alternative public notification.
[58:49] Number of years ago, the provincial government
[58:50] amended the legislation to allow opportunities
[58:53] beyond the newspaper to complete required statutory
[58:56] notification requirements.
[58:58] There are some hiccups in this system
[59:00] when we have multiple council meetings today,
[59:02] and in terms of our notification requirements
[59:04] in newspaper deadlines.
[59:06] So we think that there's an opportunity
[59:07] to pursue other means to achieve that objective
[59:10] that will streamline the development application process.
[59:13] Number three is Mr. Nielsen suggested
[59:15] as the delegation of minor variance permits to staff.
[59:19] There is some themes that council sees very regularly
[59:22] in terms of the variances.
[59:23] And we think there's an opportunity to recalibrate the system
[59:25] and save some procedural touch points and steps
[59:28] for developers and applicants.
[59:31] Number four is the replacement of development agreements
[59:33] with servicing agreements.
[59:34] As we heard earlier, this is a fairly unique process
[59:37] to habits heard in the lower mainland.
[59:38] And so moving to a single servicing agreement would align us with industry expectation throughout the lower me line.
[59:45] And number five, and to complete the immediate short-term priorities is reviewing the terms of reference for the development application review team.
[59:52] And that's really to institute that tearing effect or the multiple streams effect that
[1:00:00] I'd be remiss if I didn't see that project 1 is the largest and probably most complicated of those projects in the list, but there is funding support that comes from the housing capacity funding to the tune of approximately $500,000 to execute that project.
[1:00:13] That project would require external resources that we would partner with IT in order to deliver and build out that part of the project.
[1:00:22] So with that to all said, this is the recommendation for Council's consideration today.
[1:00:27] I have recommendation number one is simply receiving a report and item number two is to direct staff to proceed with the immediate short-term priorities as we've highlighted here today.
[1:00:38] Thank you.
[1:00:40] And thank you, Mr. Nielsen, for a very comprehensive report.
[1:00:43] I know what you've been working a long time on this.
[1:00:47] Do we have a mover to move by Councillor Ross and seconded by Councillor Loan and questions?
[1:00:57] Councillor Gibson?
[1:01:00] It's a pretty impressive report.
[1:01:02] A lot of very helpful information, but then the council, I have a couple of questions.
[1:01:08] The development agreement is replaced by the servicing agreement.
[1:01:14] So, what's the benefit to our development community?
[1:01:17] What will they, when that change is implemented,
[1:01:21] will it be the benefit to our development community and our citizens?
[1:01:24] Thank you for your worship, too.
[1:01:27] Thank you, Councillor.
[1:01:28] Thank you very much.
[1:01:30] There were a couple of minutes.
[1:01:32] And I should mention, just as Mr. Collins mentioned,
[1:01:34] as I mentioned earlier in my comments right now,
[1:01:36] we have both the Development Agreement and the Service Agreement.
[1:01:39] The advantage of eliminating one and simply having the service agreement and moving the service agreement to the front end of the process.
[1:01:48] The advantage for developers is, first of all, we have its industry standards, Mr. Collins mentioned, so they're used to doing that.
[1:01:55] Second is that they understand very clearly early in the process during the rezoning what the different requirements are going to be.
[1:02:02] So they have that information early, they can do their costume early.
[1:02:05] The third and two is that the building permit process, which at the time at which developers are keen to start building because they've already got their finance and place everything, that goes faster at that point because you moved it to the front end.
[1:02:21] I notice the financial services industry has one person that is their contact.
[1:02:26] So if you go into a credit bank, you'll talk to Bob. You won't be put off to somebody else.
[1:02:32] Have you, you alluded to it a little bit, but do you recommend that we do something like that where
[1:02:38] public has a personality, an actual person here, they can contact rather than a kind of an amorphous approach.
[1:02:46] And I just wonder what you think about that.
[1:02:48] Thank you very much for the question, again, through the mayor.
[1:02:51] Yes, we do that.
[1:02:52] And we already do that to some degree and we're suggesting to both of that even more.
[1:02:57] So every application will have a file manager.
[1:02:59] And that file manager is very important that that person understands their rule very clearly
[1:03:05] and their responsibilities, and also has the authority to be the sole contact point.
[1:03:12] Many cities, every city pretty much had use of that file manager system.
[1:03:15] I was first got some very good staff to play that rule.
[1:03:18] At times, there can't be depending on workload and stuff.
[1:03:21] We'll sometimes, we'll not always get the clarity would want, but we've talking with staff
[1:03:26] in talking with and in the report that we put forward and really emphasizing the role and the
[1:03:31] authority of that person to be exactly Councillor as you mentioned, that single point of
[1:03:36] contact to be able to make decisions to be able to be that conduit to others in the organization
[1:03:41] without having the applicant feel that they perhaps should be approaching others.
[1:03:48] Yes.
[1:03:51] Thank you. Councillor Cidou and then Councillor Drieson.
[1:03:54] Thank you, Mayor.
[1:03:56] I have a question for you, excuse me, Mr. Nielsen.
[1:03:58] When you mentioned the service you're grieving and moving that up,
[1:04:03] would that cause any issues for the developer as far as funding is concerned?
[1:04:08] But because now they're getting, you know, generally in third reading,
[1:04:12] PLA, again, correct me if I'm wrong, but they can go for funding.
[1:04:15] And now we're asking that up front, will that cause not issues for the developer?
[1:04:19] Thank you very much for the question for your worship.
[1:04:21] So we talked to a number of developers in the industry who favor this move because it's
[1:04:28] standard for them across the lower manland.
[1:04:31] So I don't think they'll still get the certainly they'll have from having the rezoning
[1:04:36] because they'll still have the rezoning as they get their funding.
[1:04:39] So they'll still be that certainty and they'll still make their security deposits to the city
[1:04:44] based on that.
[1:04:45] It's arguably because it is more front end they will need to get that financing earlier
[1:04:50] than they would if it's back in, that's it, even with the current system, where we have
[1:04:54] our development, our development agreements, even then we're still having to do some
[1:05:00] bonding, the facility provides some financing now.
[1:05:03] So it could be a small impact, however, we feel that we, in reaching out to the development
[1:05:09] community, that wasn't raised as a concern.
[1:05:14] And in the report, there's one of the recommendations was late hits, but again, I couldn't
[1:05:20] that's why I do apologize, but I didn't see that in the implementation.
[1:05:31] Through the meritor, Councillor Situ, so staff acknowledge that late hits can be very problematic
[1:05:36] for developers, and although the late hit policy is not on the short-term list, it is
[1:05:42] front and center and on the mind of staff while reviewing files and staff of identified several
[1:05:50] process changes to reduce the likelihood of late hits occurring. These changes are built into
[1:05:58] the existing five short-term projects, particularly in the dark review process, and as well as
[1:06:05] the transitioning from the DA to the servicing agreement.
[1:06:12] Wait, another question? Sure.
[1:06:15] I don't want just a question to staff, and I know it will short-term, medium-term, long-term,
[1:06:20] from about a year and a half, up to about three years,
[1:06:23] and what would success look like at the end
[1:06:26] of what are metrics that we potentially may be using?
[1:06:30] Through the American Council to do,
[1:06:31] thank you for that question.
[1:06:33] Well, the goal of the onset of this, of course,
[1:06:35] was to seek opportunities for efficiency
[1:06:36] and improvements to the developed application process review.
[1:06:40] Mr. Nielsen outlined the objectives of the project
[1:06:44] and each action item has those objectives associated with them.
[1:06:49] we understand what objectives we're achieving with each one of those recommendations.
[1:06:55] Those include things such as quicker turnaround and shorter timelines, or better customer experience,
[1:07:02] or greater transparency and certainty to the process.
[1:07:05] Some of those can be measured, others to a lesser degree.
[1:07:08] But we do feel that collectively, these recommendations will make a significant and noticeable improvement
[1:07:14] our development application process review. And while this report certainly is a milestone
[1:07:21] for us in this journey of process improvement, I will say that process improvement is ongoing.
[1:07:30] We need to improve and be efficient and that's based on priorities of council and priorities of the development community at that point in time.
[1:07:38] Great. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
[1:07:42] Thank you. Thank you, Mayor, and to Councillor Situy for asking the questions about late hits, because that was one of the ones I was going to also ask the other, and for Mr. Neil, for that explanation.
[1:07:53] And the other thing I had noted here was regarding strengthening the role of the development
[1:08:00] engineering department, and there was a mention of the development review process protocol
[1:08:07] agreement, but is that included, is that somewhere within the implementation summary as well?
[1:08:13] That's actually sorry, I should have been clear before he started up.
[1:08:16] Is that in there, is that just under short, the very first digitization in modern outages
[1:08:20] what you answer actually before you make assumptions?
[1:08:23] Through the merit to council.
[1:08:25] Do you see that again?
[1:08:26] Under that role and authority umbrella,
[1:08:29] there's many things that staff are looking at
[1:08:31] through each of those short-term staff.
[1:08:33] And as we work through our processes,
[1:08:35] in the digitization process, the dark review, again,
[1:08:38] is looking at what files go to,
[1:08:40] what files stay in the development engineering world,
[1:08:44] but not get referred up to engineering.
[1:08:46] So all of that kind of role in authority
[1:08:48] is built into those short-term things
[1:08:50] as well. Yes. So just to clarify, Ben, that they're built into the short terms, so you're
[1:08:57] thinking that it'll be within the eight, sorry, what is it again? 18 to 36 or on that's medium,
[1:09:03] zero to 18 months. That is how long you're thinking that will. Okay, great. Thank you. Thank you.
[1:09:10] I'll support. My question is to do with who monitors the success or not the success
[1:09:21] on the media, short-term files or the 16 recommendations, does that come under or with the
[1:09:29] file managers, bring that information back to some of the House or House had monitored?
[1:09:38] Through the mayor to Council Park, I believe the question is, how are we tracking these
[1:09:44] recommendations and implementation of these items?
[1:09:48] Yes, so Mr. Mr. Collins, it outlined the five that we see is the greatest opportunity
[1:09:53] or the quick wins or the low-hanging fruit, as you may, to achieve some opportunities.
[1:09:58] And that's done over the next zero to 18 months.
[1:10:02] So that means that that happens within this council term.
[1:10:06] And then the remaining items, which are a little more involved in ongoing or a longer term,
[1:10:12] would be something we revisit at the completion of this first round of short-term initiatives.
[1:10:17] And that would be something we'd bring to council for endorsement for implementation.
[1:10:26] If I've got an application in where six months through the process and there's changes being made,
[1:10:33] do they get made with the application from when the review is done or can they go these
[1:10:41] were the regulations you had to do for the first six months but now you're under the changes that we've identified
[1:10:49] because of whatever your sheet comes up.
[1:10:52] Yeah, through the Mayor to Council Park.
[1:10:53] And thank you for that follow-up.
[1:10:55] In some cases, these are our changes that require
[1:10:58] a by-law change or a policy change.
[1:10:59] I'll be brought to Council.
[1:11:01] And once that is adopted or endorsed by Council,
[1:11:05] it will be implemented immediately.
[1:11:07] Others are procedural changes happening within the department.
[1:11:11] And we will be looking to implement those
[1:11:14] immediately in the short term.
[1:11:15] So if it applies to an application today,
[1:11:17] And it's a procedural change.
[1:11:18] We'll look to make that change immediately.
[1:11:24] Great.
[1:11:25] Thank you.
[1:11:25] I don't see any other questions.
[1:11:27] I just wanted to comment that this work has all been on going.
[1:11:32] And we appreciate you work on this, Mr. Nielsen.
[1:11:33] Because we've also had record number of building permits
[1:11:37] and building permit values coming through the system.
[1:11:42] And I know some of these changes to some people seem overdue.
[1:11:49] but I have to say we are in full flight and so your work has been very helpful and I know that
[1:11:56] we're continually trying to improve as we go. Some of the changes that we have to make
[1:12:01] through by-laws this Mr. Neil has just brought up will happen hopefully sooner as opposed
[1:12:06] to later but just wanted to give a special thank you for the work on this but also the
[1:12:12] staff and you know for those watching you know we've got a lot going on in this community.
[1:12:18] We have a lot of things going well and we're constantly looking at improvements to try and move things forward a little quicker.
[1:12:26] And also to build the housing that is needed, but also to make sure that we have a well-functioning community that are adding also to our infrastructure and all the things that we need to go with it.
[1:12:38] So just wanted to acknowledge that that doesn't happen overnight.
[1:12:42] It doesn't happen by accident and so thank you.
[1:12:45] With that, I'll call the question, all those in favor, and the motion carries.
[1:12:52] Thank you.
[1:12:53] Next item, please.
[1:12:56] Next item, 7.7.
[1:12:57] This is a rezoning application for 32066 and 32082 Tim's Avenue and 2-8282-829.
[1:13:05] 2-838 and 2-839 Alice Street.
[1:13:09] Thank you very much.
[1:13:14] to the Center Neighborhood Planning Area.
[1:13:17] Subject Lans are located adjacent to Clearbrook Road.
[1:13:21] The proposed assembly have involved six properties
[1:13:24] and those properties are presently designated urban one
[1:13:27] mid-rise by the 2016 OCP.
[1:13:30] These parcels carry corresponding RS3 zoning
[1:13:33] and the applicant has requested rezoning these parcels
[1:13:35] to new comprehensive development zone N104.
[1:13:39] The N104 zone is largely based on the city's standard RMM
[1:13:44] multi-family apartment zone with a 6-story built form.
[1:13:49] In this instance, there are a couple of deviations that are included within the proposed
[1:13:52] CDs zone, and that includes a setback reduction from 6 meters to 5.44 meters.
[1:13:59] Staff generally have no concerns with the setback reduction in this context, given there's
[1:14:03] a 3-meter panhandle to the self, and existing substantial vegetation along the adjacent
[1:14:09] property.
[1:14:10] In addition to that, there is a deviation included within the proposed CDZone to permit a projection of 1.2 meters along the interior of a lotline.
[1:14:19] Again, this doesn't change the overall living area, but will improve the livability of outside decks and that sort of thing, so staff have no concerns with that deviation.
[1:14:29] Overall, the proposed form of characters of high quality and utilizes a contemporary style of architecture to satisfy the development permit guidelines.
[1:14:37] Staff is in receipt of a form and character development permit and should counsel favorably consider the rezoning that application will be reviewed by staff.
[1:14:48] In conjunction with the development, there are approximately 32 onsite trees that are proposed for removal.
[1:14:54] Removal and replacement will be reviewed and funded.
[1:15:00] This proposal is consistent with the official community plan and staff supports this application.
[1:15:08] Recommendations being moved by Councillor Situ and seconded by Councillor Parkman.
[1:15:14] And any comments or questions on this item?
[1:15:18] All those in favour? The motion carries.
[1:15:22] And the next item, please.
[1:15:28] Under the new rules that the province has brought in the would have been notifications that went to the
[1:15:36] community. So if you have specific questions,
[1:15:42] you can deal with, you can ask staff and
[1:15:44] we can, if you wanted to wait, we won't be too much longer and then we can, you can ask
[1:15:49] staff those specific questions. But unfortunately, this aligns with the official community
[1:15:56] plans. So, public comment was directed to work directly with staff when those notifications
[1:16:03] go out and they would have been that notification time you could have that's the time to have specific
[1:16:11] questions but there's still time to have a chat with staff on those but they do not have public
[1:16:18] hearings anymore if it aligns with the official community plan so that's the new process that
[1:16:24] they put in place I think it's been a place about a year and a half now so but staff will be here
[1:16:31] if you wanted to have a chat with them after, and it'll be probably another 5 or 10 minutes.
[1:16:38] Thanks for the next item, please.
[1:16:40] Next is item 7-28, a rezoning application for 2366 Broadway Street.
[1:16:46] Subject lands are located near the intersection of Broadway Street and Pairdenville Road.
[1:16:50] These lands are presently designated urban three info by the official community plan and carry a corresponding RS-3I zoning.
[1:16:57] This time, the applicant wishes to re-zone the parcel to RS4I, which is the city's standard
[1:17:02] duplex zone to facilitate a future duplex development on the subject property.
[1:17:07] This proposal is consistent with the OCP and staff support this application.
[1:17:15] Move that Councillor Lowen and seconded by Councillor Ross and any comments or questions on
[1:17:23] this item.
[1:17:23] I'll
[1:17:26] call the question that all those in favor and the opposed.
[1:17:31] All, was that in favor or opposed to council Gibson?
[1:17:36] In favor, okay.
[1:17:38] Thank you.
[1:17:40] Then the motion passes in next item, please.
[1:17:43] Next is item 7.9, a rezoning application for 3, 3, 4, 0, 6,
[1:17:47] Hawthorne Avenue.
[1:17:49] Subject lands are located north of King Road in south of Highway 1.
[1:17:53] site is located west of the McCallum Road interchange.
[1:17:58] Subject property was located within the U District Neighborhood Planning area, and as a result
[1:18:03] of that process, the existing Urban 3 in Philan juice designation was reaffirmed.
[1:18:09] Subject properties presently zoned RS-3I, and at this time the applicant's vision
[1:18:13] to re-zone the land to RS-7, if that is approved by Council of the applicant tends to
[1:18:18] struct and 18-lot subdivision.
[1:18:22] The site has substantial trees located on it today,
[1:18:26] and in conjunction with development approximately 132 trees
[1:18:30] are proposed for removal.
[1:18:32] A tree cutting permit is required to complete this work
[1:18:35] and through that permitting process
[1:18:37] replacement trees or cash in lieu will be secured.
[1:18:40] This proposal is consistent with the OCP
[1:18:42] and staff support this application.
[1:18:47] This has been moved by Councillor Situ and seconded by Councillor Dicep and Councillor
[1:18:57] Dicep.
[1:18:57] Councillor Dicep.
[1:18:58] Yes, thank you.
[1:18:59] Just wanted to confirm that the Kirk Avenue will still go through, well, that's still,
[1:19:04] there's no changes to that road.
[1:19:07] Your worship through the Councillor Dicep and the section of Kirk Avenue that's contained
[1:19:12] within the subject property is not dedicated today and with this application it would
[1:19:15] be dedicated and constructed.
[1:19:18] Okay, so the plan then is for it to eventually not go through. Sorry.
[1:19:24] With this application for CROD will be completed and that network will be finalized.
[1:19:28] That's sorry, that's what I meant. Yes, thank you for understanding.
[1:19:35] Great, any other comments or questions?
[1:19:38] All those in favour?
[1:19:41] Sorry, did you have a comment?
[1:19:47] I don't know if it's something I should be saying at this point.
[1:19:51] I can say just expressed that I was disappointed that there are so many trees there and almost all of them are going to go.
[1:19:58] I did read the Arborist Report, but most of the justification mainly just said that it conflicted with the building envelope, but it just, I don't know.
[1:20:09] It's easy for me to say from this.
[1:20:11] But it did look like some of them could have been safe because they could have been accommodated within the backyards, but I don't know.
[1:20:19] I'm sure staff have had those discussions but just express my disappointment that more trees
[1:20:25] could be saved here. That's an awful lot that we're losing.
[1:20:31] Hopefully the developer understands
[1:20:34] that trees and backyards might help sell the lots so hopefully hopefully there will be some
[1:20:41] some abilities there but I appreciate raising that. All those in favor and any opposed
[1:20:49] motion carries. Next item please. Next item 7.10. This is a rezoning application for
[1:20:56] 2.826 Maple Street. Subject lands are located in Central Abbotsford and located within
[1:21:03] the historic downtown neighborhood planning area. As a result of that process, the existing
[1:21:09] urban three infill land use designation was reaffirmed. Subject lands are presently zoned RS-3I
[1:21:15] And at this time, the applicant wishes to reason the parcel to RS7,
[1:21:19] if that reasoning application is approved by Council,
[1:21:22] the applicant intends to construct a two-lots subdivision.
[1:21:26] Subject lands contain 17 existing trees and eight
[1:21:29] are proposed for removal and conjunction with development
[1:21:32] with the remaining trees and the rear yard set proposed for retention.
[1:21:36] This proposal is consistent with the Official Community Plan
[1:21:38] and staff support this application.
[1:21:40] move
[1:21:44] by Councillor Gibson and seconded by Councillor Varkman and any comments or questions
[1:21:52] on the Maple Lab of you.
[1:21:55] All those in favor, in the motion carries, in the next item, please.
[1:22:00] Next is item 7.11.
[1:22:01] This is a rezoning application for 3, 2, 5, 6, 4, pure and pure road.
[1:22:06] Subject lands are located, funding, pure and pure road near the intersection with Broadway
[1:22:10] Street.
[1:22:12] subject plans are designated urban three in fill by the official community plan. This time,
[1:22:17] the applicant wishes to reason the parcel from RS-3I to RS-4I in order to accommodate
[1:22:22] a future two-plex proposal. This proposal is consistent with the OCP.
[1:22:32] We've by Councillor Lowen, and seconded by Councillor Ross, and any comments or questions on the Prudentville
[1:22:40] Roadway. All those in favour? Motion carries. Next item, please.
[1:22:48] Next is item 7.12. This is a rezoning application for 202-8-Permos Street and 3306-9-Marshall Road.
[1:22:55] Subject properties located at the intersection of Marshall Road and Primero Street.
[1:23:01] These lands are designated health campus by the 2016 official community plan, and the building
[1:23:06] that was constructed on the southern larger personal adheres to that land use designation.
[1:23:12] This time the applicant's wish to re-zone the northern personal from RS-3 to P-8 in order
[1:23:17] to accommodate a 430 meter square two-story office building.
[1:23:22] In conjunction with that map amendment, the proponent is also requesting a site-specific text
[1:23:27] amendment to the health campus zone to add a veterinary hospital as a permitted use on
[1:23:32] that property.
[1:23:35] Site-plan and council's package shows the proposed configuration that includes some surface
[1:23:39] parking and also an extension to the underground parking in order to satisfy the zoning by-law
[1:23:44] requirements.
[1:23:45] Should council favorably consider the zoning amendment, staff will be reviewing the
[1:23:49] associated form of character development permit.
[1:23:53] Overall, the architectural style is generally of a high quality and staff have no concerns
[1:23:56] with the proposal's ability to comply with the official community plan development permit guidelines.
[1:24:02] Staff support this application, the Reckman Council proceed as highlighted in the recommendation.
[1:24:10] I recommend you just move to the councilor city and set second to the councilor Cupson.
[1:24:15] Thank you.
[1:24:16] Thank you.
[1:24:18] Through the staff, through you, Mayor, how is the parking access?
[1:24:22] I think you worship through the counselor gives in accesses and is paid by a
[1:24:28] Primero street into a surface lot and through that surface lot you would have access
[1:24:32] to the underground parkade as well.
[1:24:36] When vehicles turn off Marshall under the side street to access the building, what's the
[1:24:44] magazine there in terms of the tweet?
[1:24:47] Sometimes I've seen that, where cars turn, but they're creating obstacles behind, because there's lots of cars turning off Marshall, how do we avoid any problem like that?
[1:25:01] Your worship through to Councillor Gibson. Access here was determined in the previous phase of development. It was located as far north as possible, based on the assembly that occurred.
[1:25:11] This application was reviewed by engineering, and at this point there was no concerns with that access configuration.
[1:25:19] Thank you.
[1:25:21] I don't see any other comments or questions.
[1:25:23] I'll call the question, then all those in favour, the motion carries, and next item, please.
[1:25:30] Next is item 7.13. This is a rezoning application for 2, 3, 8, 5, Pyrtonville Robe.
[1:25:36] This subject property is located in the intersection of Simpson Road and Pyrtonville Road.
[1:25:42] Subject lands are presently designated general industrial by the Official Community Plan, and have a historic zoning of A1.
[1:25:49] This time the applicant wishes to resume that to general industrial to accommodate future industrial development on this parcel.
[1:25:57] There is an access right of way that is presently registered on title of the subject lands, although the access that is evident on the air photo here does not align with that.
[1:26:06] There is a recommendation contained in the recommendation for Council to resolve this discrepancy prior to adoption.
[1:26:15] In conjunction with this application, there is a small cash and lieu recommendation to allow for future
[1:26:21] signalization of the industrial areas of the consistent with past practice and previously considered
[1:26:26] rezoning applications in this neighborhood.
[1:26:29] Overall, this application is consistent with the OCP and staff support this application subject
[1:26:33] to resolution of the conditions contained within the recommendation.
[1:26:37] I'm
[1:26:40] moved by Councillor Driesson and seconded by Councillor Workington and any comments or questions.
[1:26:50] All those in favor?
[1:26:51] The motion carries.
[1:26:53] Thank you.
[1:26:54] That was a marathon for you.
[1:26:59] And next item, please.
[1:27:02] Thank you, Mr. Mayor.
[1:27:03] Item 8.1 is by law 3633-2025, which is a development cost charge.
[1:27:08] in position by low 2021, number 3174, amendment by low 2025, number 363, this by
[1:27:16] laws ready for adoption.
[1:27:19] Adoption has been moved by Councilor Dresson and seconded by Councilor Ross and any comments
[1:27:28] all those in favor.
[1:27:30] The motion carries.
[1:27:31] Next item please.
[1:27:33] Item 8.2 is by law 36372025, which is the amenity cost charge is in position by
[1:27:39] law 2025. This by law is ready for adoption.
[1:27:44] Move my counselor Ross second up a counselor part one and this is the amenity's cost
[1:27:48] charge by law that counselor Gibson was asking about and that will be able to start
[1:27:55] collecting those next year. All those in favor, the motion carries. Next item please.
[1:28:03] Item 8.3 is by law 3634-2025, which is the Abbas Fertzoning by law 2014 number 240.
[1:28:12] Amendment by law 2025, number 3634, this by law is ready for adoption.
[1:28:18] The adoption has been looped by Councillor Nolan and seconded by Councillor Sedoux,
[1:28:23] and all those in favor, the motion carries in the next item, please.
[1:28:30] At a May point four is by law 3589-2025, which is amendment 653 to the city's zoning by law.
[1:28:37] For the properties located at 107-4, Horizon Street, 33-383, and 33-391 Hall in Avenue,
[1:28:46] 33-404, 33-414, 33-424, and 33-430, Marshall Road.
[1:28:53] This by law is ready for adoption.
[1:28:55] The options have been moved by Councillor Situ and seconded by Councillor Ross.
[1:29:03] And all those in favor, the motion carries.
[1:29:09] We will now recess the council meeting and reconvene after the public hearing, which
[1:29:14] is scheduled for 6 p.m. this evening.
[1:29:17] So if I could, I would entertain a motion to recess, move by Councillor Ross, seconded by
[1:29:23] Councillor Gibson, and all those in favour, and then the folks, the lady that had a question,
[1:29:31] you have to just want to, our staff will come and have a chat with you.
[1:29:35] Thank you, and we'll see you at six o'clock.
[1:30:00] So, good evening, and we will now convene the regular meeting of council.
[1:30:04] Can have a motion to be convened. Move by Councillor Gibson, setting up by Councillor Berkman, all those in favour?
[1:30:13] Welcome back. I'll turn it over to staff for the next item, please.
[1:30:18] Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Item 9.1 contains three motions for council's consideration. The first motion is by law 364525, which is amendment 35 to the city's official
[1:30:29] community plan by law for the property located at 3, 4, 7, 4,
[1:30:34] Gladwin Road following this evening's public hearing.
[1:30:37] This by-laws before Council for consideration of third reading.
[1:30:43] Third reading has been moved by Councillor Shawall and that has been
[1:30:46] seconded by Councillor Drieson.
[1:30:48] Did any comments or questions?
[1:30:50] This is the Gladwin Road I Riverside property on the United Church.
[1:30:58] Councillor Loan.
[1:30:59] Thank you, Mayor.
[1:31:00] Just very encouraging, I just want to make this a good general comment about this innovative way of using
[1:31:11] large institutional properties in this case specifically church properties that may be underutilized and
[1:31:19] they turning it into a social purpose such as the one that is proposed is commendable for that church community.
[1:31:26] I want to applaud them and for my understanding there are maybe a few other local churches who are in the process of moving in the same direction.
[1:31:38] So Kudos to this community for challenging this use of their property highly committed. Thank you.
[1:31:51] And I know there was some written submission, a little bit of a concern about parking
[1:31:55] her traffic and I, you know, the church is going to remain there, but it would be included
[1:32:02] in the project. So, and then it will be seniors housing. I don't think there's going to be
[1:32:11] and as our staff had indicated through the reports that there isn't going to be an unreasonable burden
[1:32:19] of extra traffic as a result of this that has basically
[1:32:23] already there. So, I do concur with your comments.
[1:32:28] This is, I think it's going to be a template for maybe
[1:32:31] others to follow because it is a unique and innovative way
[1:32:34] and a better way to utilize properties.
[1:32:38] And so, I think it's a great template for others to follow.
[1:32:43] And it was worked well in other air in a couple of other cities.
[1:32:47] So I'm looking forward to seeing this go through.
[1:32:51] So I'll call the question, all those are paper.
[1:32:54] And it passes unanimously.
[1:32:56] Thank you.
[1:32:56] And the next item, please.
[1:32:59] The second most.
[1:33:01] I caught myself a little too late there.
[1:33:03] Council work into needs to refuse for a let you.
[1:33:10] Thank you.
[1:33:10] Just a moment, Mr. Mayor, before we go,
[1:33:12] there we do still have two remaining sub items for 9.1.
[1:33:16] I'm a rest of your actually than I think, I am so sorry, yes, I will go back to you for the second and third motions.
[1:33:26] Thank you, Mr. Mayor. The second motion for Council's consideration is by a law of 364625, which is amendment 688 to the city's zoning by law for the property located at 3474 Gladwin Road.
[1:33:39] This by law is before Council for first second and third readings.
[1:33:50] The third motion for Council's consideration is by law 3661-2025, which is amendment 701 to the city's zoning by law for the property located at 3474 Gladwin Road.
[1:34:05] This by law is before Council for 1 second and third readings.
[1:34:09] Move a Councillor Bartwin, seconded by Councillor Sedu, and any further comments or questions,
[1:34:16] all those in favor, the motion carries.
[1:34:20] Thank you for being gracious.
[1:34:28] And now I will turn it over to Councillor Work and to say a statement.
[1:34:31] Yes, I'll have to step out to you or conflict as previously discussed with you.
[1:34:50] And I will now turn this back to staff for the next item, please.
[1:34:54] Thank you, Mr. Mayor.
[1:34:55] Item 9.2 contains three motions for Council's consideration.
[1:34:59] The first motion is by law 3639-2025, which is amendment 34 to the city's official
[1:35:05] community plan by law.
[1:35:06] Further properties located at 2111 and 2133 Wacom Road, following this evening's public
[1:35:14] hearing.
[1:35:15] This by law is before Council for consideration of third reading.
[1:35:20] Third reading has been moved by Councillor Shaw and seconded by
[1:35:26] Councillor Ross, and
[1:35:28] to open two comments or questions, Councillor Ross.
[1:35:32] Thank you.
[1:35:33] Yes.
[1:35:34] First of all, I just wanted to say how much I appreciate the people who spoke that clearly
[1:35:37] read the report.
[1:35:39] I always love to see that.
[1:35:42] So just in terms of the concerns of the wildlife corridor area, I get people's concerns
[1:35:48] about that pinch point and the wildlife crossing walk come.
[1:35:52] But so after that, I reread the part of the report that discussed that.
[1:35:57] I just want to pull out a couple of pieces of that that over 1,000 meters square of naturalized
[1:36:03] force will be maintained, and there will be a 2.1 rehabilitation, but just pull out some
[1:36:12] of the things that they're going to be doing.
[1:36:14] The rehabilitation includes the planning of 400 trees and shrubs, removing and existing
[1:36:20] drive way and grass lawn and replacing them with native trees and shrubs. It also includes
[1:36:28] removal of invasive plant species and wildlife savage relic salvage relocation. It will also
[1:36:35] be protected by a fence to the east so that people can't encroach into the wildlife areas.
[1:36:42] Looking at all that, it does look like we are actually creating more home in habitat for the wildlife
[1:36:50] area there and maybe I know wildlife still likes to move around, but maybe they might be less
[1:36:56] inclined to feel the need to cross the busy highway. Through this development we'll create
[1:37:02] a better home behind that for them. So I will support this.
[1:37:09] Thank you. It's Sarah.
[1:37:11] I'm a councillor reason. Yeah.
[1:37:15] I just wanted to thank those who came out as well. I appreciate
[1:37:22] status response when it comes to traffic because I also feel that having driving in that area.
[1:37:30] And the current zoning supports could support potentially even a higher level of cars in and out of driveways if they were to, for example, have another fast food restaurant or went on to that end.
[1:37:44] It does help help me to lean more towards supporting this development, knowing that this is actually the better of two options and wanting to make use of that land.
[1:37:55] And the other piece that I was just going to speak to was with regards to the school capacity because I did ask this question when this was first presented.
[1:38:05] And I know that staff didn't quite respond, but they know that elementary school and this catchment is at 68%.
[1:38:10] So I know the middle and you'll, sorry, middle and high secondary schools are over capacity, but at the elementary level there is still that capacity there and as they move up.
[1:38:21] Hopefully, we'll have see some of them with the school district and some expansions, but
[1:38:29] it's reading through the report and seeing that the school district did not flag this or
[1:38:35] indicate that they were unsupportive of it, for those reasons I think I will be supporting this
[1:38:41] application.
[1:38:44] Thank you. Councillor Parkley. Yes, I might go back to what was brought up at the lady about
[1:38:54] the speeds and the amount of traffic. I guess, I guess, I'm said before, I travel as
[1:39:05] quite frequently and if the development or at this time we don't, maybe I should go back
[1:39:13] Do you have we had any traffic counts on that area?
[1:39:19] Do you see at what point this would warrant left-turn errors?
[1:39:24] Got that intersection?
[1:39:28] Your worship?
[1:39:29] Yes, we have, and it is not warranted at this time,
[1:39:32] and it's not warranted with the addition of this development.
[1:39:37] I guess my concern is a level crossing versus the speeds that come down the hill
[1:39:44] from Mountain Drive as the lady had indicated is that all taken into consideration with when
[1:39:53] that might change for different kind of signaling,
[1:39:59] even though with this study or with
[1:40:03] the staff recommendation, this development would not, they don't have any concerns with
[1:40:09] a traffic a additional traffic part me at that intersection.
[1:40:18] A worship all the factors are considered.
[1:40:20] We do know that speed is an issue in some places in the city,
[1:40:24] and we do partner with our partners.
[1:40:26] We'll have the House for Police Department.
[1:40:29] We play a role in providing engineering solutions,
[1:40:32] but there is also the enforcement piece,
[1:40:34] and the House for Police Department do their role in enforcing
[1:40:37] speeds, including on that road there.
[1:40:45] Thank you.
[1:40:46] Councillor Gibson.
[1:40:48] Thank you, I'm especially persuaded by staff remarks that this property could be used for commercial purposes in an area that's really problematic for that.
[1:41:01] So the fact that this building appears to be very sensitive to the topography and the greenery there persuades me to endorse it tonight.
[1:41:12] Thank
[1:41:16] you.
[1:41:19] Just I want to think a couple of comments.
[1:41:22] So, well aware of the speed challenges.
[1:41:25] I travel that road every day.
[1:41:27] I am not one of the speeders.
[1:41:28] I actually go speed limit.
[1:41:30] I'm surprised how many times people pass me as if I'm standing still.
[1:41:35] But this is on the radar of the police.
[1:41:37] Excuse the pun.
[1:41:39] But the police department is on the traffic.
[1:41:42] enforcement they are putting more effort in and but it is a that is a challenge in today's society.
[1:41:49] So, but if you have concerns by all means continue to put those through to the police department,
[1:41:57] they're very responsive and if you're noticing challenges, they are responsive to those.
[1:42:04] We've got a very good traffic enforcement unit. I know there was comments made about transit and
[1:42:10] that is a bit of a challenge, there is going to be our hope and when the
[1:42:18] brewway is widened that there will be a parking ride and our hope is that
[1:42:23] that would be another stop of the freezer value express. There will be a line as we
[1:42:28] increase our transit,
[1:42:32] there would be a direct line from this area right to the
[1:42:36] historic downtown to the Montrose exchange.
[1:42:38] Unfortunately, we do require partnerships with our
[1:42:42] friends at BC Transit.
[1:42:44] And so we do have a new facility built in conjunction
[1:42:48] with the federal funding and BC Transit down on Gladys.
[1:42:53] And so we have the capacity to add more buses.
[1:42:56] We just need deeper pockets at the provincial government.
[1:43:02] So there is a plan for our transportation
[1:43:04] for our transit. It's not happening as fast as we'd like. But that's why we have a
[1:43:10] transit master plan. So please dialogue through let's talk habits for it in our
[1:43:16] official community plan process and and and feet that information in. I wish I could
[1:43:22] say transit was going to happen faster but there is a master plan in place and we are
[1:43:27] working that plan,
[1:43:30] but that is a challenge.
[1:43:32] And then hospitals, again, we're well aware, we continue to work.
[1:43:38] We know we need some capacity at that component to say,
[1:43:43] no to development is contrary to what the housing targets
[1:43:46] that the provincial government has put in place.
[1:43:49] So the provincial government has put in housing targets that we have to need.
[1:43:54] But that's the same provincial government that also funds hospitals and so we continue to have that discussion
[1:44:01] We continue to raise those concerns and that is an issue that we're well aware of
[1:44:07] But to say no to development
[1:44:11] Is not an option and so how we plan that development in in meaningful and thoughtful ways and this I believe coincides with meaningful and thoughtful
[1:44:23] ways according to our official community plan and I know this is an
[1:44:27] amendment but we're wearing the process of doing an official community plan
[1:44:31] update and so this aligns with what our vision is and the only other
[1:44:37] option is to not develop anything on this property but as you can tell people
[1:44:42] are paying you know this property is zoned to go to higher use commercial and I
[1:44:47] better imagine that the taxes you know for somebody to live there as a single
[1:44:51] family is just not in the realm of reality, so all things considered, I think.
[1:45:00] Good fit for this particular property. And I think time will prove that this is going to be a good addition to that neighborhood. So I will be supporting this.
[1:45:11] So with that, I'll call a question. All goes in favor. In the motion carries. Next item, please.
[1:45:23] Mr.
[1:45:27] Mayor, we still have two sub items to consider.
[1:45:30] Sorry, thank you.
[1:45:32] I am so glad that you are on top of it.
[1:45:35] So, next motion, please.
[1:45:39] The second motion for Council's consideration is by law 364025, which is amendment 685 to the city's zoning by law.
[1:45:47] for the properties located at 211-1 and 2133-Walkham Road.
[1:45:52] This bylaws before Council for 1 second and 3rd readings.
[1:46:09] The
[1:46:13] third motion for Council's consideration is development variance permit 2538 for
[1:46:18] properties located at 2111 and 2133 Walkham Road. Staff's recommendation is that this permit
[1:46:25] be approved in principle, subject to the conditions outlined in the report.
[1:46:33] Move by Councillor Ross, seconded by Councillor Drieson, and any comments or questions,
[1:46:39] all those in favour? The motion carries. Thank you, and now we can bring back Councillor
[1:46:45] and
[1:47:07] I will turn that back over to staff for the next item, please.
[1:47:12] Item 9.3 contains one motion for Council's consideration.
[1:47:16] The ALR exclusion and inclusion applications are now before Council for consideration.
[1:47:25] Recommendations will have a Councillor Lowen and second up a Councillor Shawl
[1:47:29] and any comments or questions? Councillor Desean.
[1:47:34] Yeah, so I have been waiting to speak about this publicly, so I just wanted to thank staff for all the hard work to get on this application and move it forward so quickly.
[1:47:47] To develop a new sports and recreation park in Abbasford is a very exciting thing for our community and to have it so close to the university and in the Utah district, I think is amazing.
[1:47:58] and puts spots as well, close to transit and major transportation routes.
[1:48:06] I echo the comments that were made from our agriculture advisory committee and staff report that the LeFever road trade-off is very much in favor of agriculture given the property locations and also the very similar classes of soils.
[1:48:20] So, I appreciate the feedback that our committee gave us, and I just also wanted to acknowledge
[1:48:27] a former and current council members who identified the special study area in the past because
[1:48:33] I know planning for this did not happen over the last few years and has been in the works
[1:48:38] for quite some time.
[1:48:39] So, I'm excited to move this forward and look and to see what comes from it.
[1:48:46] Great. Thank you for those comments. Any other comments or questions?
[1:48:54] I concur and I appreciate the people's patience.
[1:48:59] These things take time.
[1:49:02] But I do think that we are moving in the right direction.
[1:49:07] And cautiously optimistic.
[1:49:09] We will continue to put our best foot forward.
[1:49:13] And I think we've, I really appreciate the way staff have dealt with this, and I think that we're in a very good position.
[1:49:23] I think the best position we've been in a long time to be able to see this two-for-ish and so it's been a long time in the making.
[1:49:32] And with that, I will call the question, all those in favor, and it carries unanimously.
[1:49:39] Thank you.
[1:49:41] And with that, no new business that I'm aware of,
[1:49:46] and so I will entertain a motion to adjourn,
[1:49:49] Councillor Gibson, and Councillor Parkman.
[1:49:52] I can always count on that.
[1:49:53] All those in favor, and anybody opposed to adjourning?
[1:49:58] We are adjourned. Thank you.