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Good morning, everyone. Thank you for being here this morning.

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I would like to open this meeting, and I would

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like to acknowledge that we are gathered today. On the

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traditional ancestral unseated territory, the Celex Okanagan people. This meeting

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is open to the public and all representation to council

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form, part of a public record and a live audio

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video feed is being broadcasted and recorded on Kelo. Kelowna.

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Ca. May I now pass this over to the city

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manager, please? Thanks very much, your worship. And good morning,

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council. I'm pleased to present council with today's. Preliminary 2026

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budget, which is our funding roadmap to building the city

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of the future vision that we all share. Given that

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this is the last budget of the year term. It's

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kind of logically focused on delivering on all of your

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stated priorities and making investments in those essential services and

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infrastructure that are going to improve the lives for all

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of our citizens. Notably, today's budget makes fairly significant strides

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towards those goals that you have set out. For us

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while keeping our taxes. Competitive, stable, and certainly in line

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with the commitments that we've made to you throughout the

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entire term. As all of you know, this year's budget

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is part of a multi year. Financial cycle. With every

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funding decision focusing on community needs as defined in many

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of those plans and strategies that council has approved over

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the last three years and beyond. And from that perspective,

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there should be no surprises in this budget for council

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or for the public as you weighed through it today.

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It's simply the culmination of your collective decisions throughout the

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entire year and throughout the term and this budget truly,

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I think, reflects those decisions and your direction back to

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us. All of your six council priorities, and the 25

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action items that are in that document serve as our

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compass throughout the year and throughout the term. Particularly when

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we're building and amending our budgets, developing the strategies that

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we bring to you. And when determinations are made. On

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resource allocation or reallocation like we do many times throughout

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the year. Your direction makes sure that every dollar we

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spend or every new dollar we spend works towards tackling.

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Those biggest challenges that the communities told you about and

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that make up your priorities. Our budget also ensures that.

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We are building a very carefully planned future. As municipality,

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we try and take the view or the long game,

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and to that end, our budget. Supports the. Well developed

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plans and strategies like the official community plan. The ten

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year capital plan that you recently endorsed. Our fight of

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year financial plan and a whole host of master plans,

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some of which have been updated by you under this

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term. In the budget, you're going to recognize that the

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top community priorities, like community safety, transportation, have received the

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greatest attention and the greatest share of the budget increase.

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We're adding resources. For police fire bylaw to enhance public

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safety. We're accelerating the construction of roads. Bridges, sidewalks, multimodal

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transportation. And bike lanes to improve mobility for everybody in

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our community. And we've also earmarked new funding for transit

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operations and traffic safety, which we've talked quite a bit

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about. This term. At the same time, we're moving ahead

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with some transformational projects that are going to leave a

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real legacy in our community related to parks in many

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new neighborhoods distributed across the city. And building modern recreation

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facilities in sports fields through the. Building stronger colonial initiative.

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Well, much of the 26 budget looks to the future.

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Of course, we always have to look after today as

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well, to keep the city running smoothly. Road repairs, snow

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removal, upkeep of parks and boulevards, enhancements to traffic safety.

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We know, these are all escalating, and we have to

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keep up with that. Escalating. Budget if we want to

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keep our city safe, clean, and a strong place for

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people to move. To and do business that proactive maintenance.

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And I dare say our award winning asset management program

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are two ways we take care of our infrastructure behind

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the scenes. To ensure that services continue uninterrupted and that

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those assets get their full lifecycle. Inside the city. We're

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also modernizing how we do business, focusing on digital transformation

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and operational efficiencies. Now, I think we all know. That

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the city of Colon is recognized as a fairly high

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performing organization amongst our peers, and we're now really laser

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focused on automation, cybersecurity and improving customer service at every

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touch point. And to this end, for council's knowledge, we

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have added additional emphasis in 26 and beyond. On improving

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the customer experience. It has become one of our corporate

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priorities for the next few years. These internal investments are

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certainly going to make it a lot easier for residents

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to access our services. And ensure CD operations are efficient

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and effective. We also recognize that some of our costs,

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like policing transit, construction materials are all rising and well

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beyond our control. However, thanks to careful planning, strong investments,

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and a focus on partnerships and own source revenues, We're

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able to absorb many of these pressures with minimal impact

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on taxations. In fact, the cost to operate our city

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for 2026 will go up by somewhere in the range

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of 11%. While we're only proposing to increase property taxes

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by 4.47%, this means we can continue to deliver the

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essential services and your prior. Priorities around community safety, mobility

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and quality of life without putting that added burden on

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our citizens. And despite seeing a continual reduction in our

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reliance on taxation over the last number of years, we've

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gone from 25% tax reliance down to 20% tax reliance.

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We're continuing to pursue all those external funding opportunities, such

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as partnerships and grants, to further reduce the reliance on

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taxation. Across all of our service areas. Our funding decisions

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prioritize cost efficiency. High quality service and that meaningful impact

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on the community. And finally, your worship, before I turn

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the meeting over to you, I'd like to acknowledge. That

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the enviable financial position that we find ourselves in compared

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to many of our peers. Does not happen by chance.

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It's a result of the culture of fiscal responsibility and

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innovation that's embedded in our organization to make it possible.

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It's the people that are going to be in this

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room throughout today. Those that are out there on the

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front lines. Certainly my senior leadership team and of course,

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our incredible financial management group that make it all happen.

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So I hope today is an enjoyable discussion with council

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and that you see the decisions and direction that you've

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given. Reflected in the budget document that we're presenting. Thank

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you, worship. It's all yours. Thank you. And just a

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word from myself. On behalf of myself and on behalf

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of council. We recognize the work that needs to be

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done. By our city manager. By all senior leadership, by

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all department heads, and the commitment that is made all

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the way through. The organization with regards to all the

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different staffing levels. And this is, as we have said

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a few times, we've put it into a process. Where

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it goes through and is before us numerous times throughout

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the year. To help secure the direction of exactly what

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we're looking at trying to accomplish today. And. That is

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done because. Of the strong finance team that Mr. Sass

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runs. His whole team and the organization itself with regards

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to trying to meet the demands of the priorities that

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we set forward. So. It's going to be an interesting

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day. We are very looking forward to it. But before

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we start, we just wanted to thank all of those

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involved. In discussions with Mr. Sass. This day has comparisons

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to the Great cup, the Stanley bowl, the Stanley cup,

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the Super bowl. So all of those highlights. So I

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think it's only appropriate that we just thank them for

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everyone, for all the work that they've done and all

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the commitment that they've made to bring this forward to

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us today. And as I pass this over to the

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city clerk, let's kick. This off. Thank you, your worship.

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The general manager of corporate services will provide an overview

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of the 2026 financial plan, and then staff will go

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through each of the service areas. Thank you, your worship.

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Just a few slides for me this morning, and then

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you won't. Have to listen to me anymore. I know

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it's been a lot, but one of my favorite things

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about this time of year is the intensity of the

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communication that we get around budget. Time. And so we

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get more engagement, more feedback, more questions. From the community,

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the media council, the public, our colleagues in this week

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than we do in the other 51 weeks of the

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year, and so it's really important to me. And the

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rest of the finance team that we hear those questions

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and comments and are able to come back and provide

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some real time information to help address what we're hearing

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out in the community. So to that end, I have.

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A few new slides just to show to hopefully address

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some of the questions and comments that we're hearing from

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council and the public and so on. So this is

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exactly the slide that Mr. Gilchrist alluded to around. The

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total spend or service delivery in our budget as compared

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to the amount of taxation that's. Funding it. And so

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the blue bar there is the total budget. The red

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bar is the tax and the green bar there is

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the percent that is tax funded, so you'll see. That

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in 2022, we were north of 25% for the. 2026

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proposed budget we're just over 20% in terms of the

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overall service delivery. That's proposed to be funded by taxation.

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This slide. As you know, this time of year, the

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tax rates for our comparator communities come out very, very

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quickly. And so this is just an updated slide that

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we showed. Actually, I believe on Monday. This is our

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two year tax rate compared against our comparator groups. But

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more importantly, The team has very, very quickly put together

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this slide, and this shows the cumulative impact of the

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tax rates over the council term. Now, what is notably

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missing from this is West Kelowna. West Kelowna is just

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shy of 32%. I believe so would be in between

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New Westminster and mission, but this slide shows. Exactly what

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it is that we're trying to do year by year.

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There is a great deal of volatility in the tax

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rates. And our comparators, again are much more volatile than

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we are. And so there was a lot of, there

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was a lot of questions around Vancouver's 0% tax rate.

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And what we're doing here is predictable, stable increases. That.

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Pay dividends, so to speak, over time. And what you

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can see here is we've. Come in exactly between 3.7

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and 4.5% over this five year period and we remain

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the lowest over that period. So in any given year,

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a lot of things happen, but what we're really striving

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for is that long term financial planning and that's. What

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the financial planning team again. Was recognized for this year

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through the GFOA Budget Award is that we take that

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long. Term view and over time, This is good news

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for our community. Another slide that we've looked at in

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the prior year, which, again, is very dynamic because this

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data has not actually come out yet for 2025, but

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this shows our budgeted ftes per thousand population. Now, this

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one's a little bit different because the various municipalities as

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you know, offer various different services. And so what I'd

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say kelo. Kelowna in the middle of the pack, recognizing

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that we operate our own airport. None of our comparator

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municipalities operate their own airport, as well as the fact

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that. We run our own utilities, so our lower mainland

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comparators would not show. Metro Vancouver regional districts. Ftes, which

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run the commercial part of the utilities, where we handle

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that ourselves. So we're also the regional hub, whereas many

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of our comparator municipalities are. One of 22 relatively equally

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sized municipalities, whereas the city of Kelowna, we're a bit

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of a hub for the surrounding communities. So overall, this,

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to me, shows a lot of responsibility. I think the

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city of Kelowna, like I said, we offer more services

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broadly than many. Of our comparators. We're right around the

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middle of the pack on the FTE. Mark, and very

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much on the low end. Of the dollar mark and

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the tax mark. So with that said, this is just

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responding again to some of the feedback and comments that

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we've heard out in the ether, and with that said,

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unless there's any questions or comments, I'm happy to pass

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it over to Mel and we'll get underway. Mr. Sass.

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Thank you, counsel. Do we have any questions? Of Mr.

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Sass before we begin. Seeing none. Thank you. And once

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again, I just want to thank you for your work

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alongside your team's work and bringing this forward to us

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today. So thank you, Joe. So I'm going to start

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today with a quick summary of how today will run.

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So we're going to start the day with the airport,

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which is on page 77 of your budget volume, and

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we'll follow the order of the book, ending with enabling

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services at the end of the day. Each service area

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presentation will start with an introduction of the service area,

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including performance measures, accomplishments, and improvements. I'll then summarize the

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expenditure budget being requested and the recommended funding strategy. Then

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we will go through the budget request for 2026. We

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will start with the priority one operating request. Then we

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will look at the priority one capital. Request, and then

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we will look at priority two requests, if there are

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any. Council is invited to ask questions at any time

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throughout the day, and you are also welcome to make

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a motion to star budget requests, and what that will

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00:15:36,798 --> 00:15:38,638
do is have them be brought back. At the end

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00:15:38,638 --> 00:15:41,678
of the day, after deliberation of all other service areas

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00:15:41,678 --> 00:15:46,846
is complete. We have senior leadership staff and various other

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00:15:46,846 --> 00:15:49,686
staff members available throughout the day in council to answer

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00:15:49,686 --> 00:15:52,646
any questions that you may have on any of the

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00:15:52,646 --> 00:15:56,566
budget requests, and we also have staff listening. In the

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00:15:56,566 --> 00:16:01,643
back and available to do research if required. So this

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00:16:01,643 --> 00:16:08,403
budget recommends a 2026 taxation demand of $213.4 million, which

248
00:16:08,403 --> 00:16:15,559
is a 4.47% increase over 2025. The chart on the

249
00:16:15,559 --> 00:16:17,759
screen and the handout that you should have at your

250
00:16:17,759 --> 00:16:21,519
seat has a summary of different dollar changes and the

251
00:16:21,519 --> 00:16:26,946
taxation demand. With the associated impact to the taxation percent

252
00:16:26,946 --> 00:16:31,010
change. Before we start, I'll just want to walk through

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00:16:31,010 --> 00:16:34,850
a couple budget funds that are being recommended for use

254
00:16:34,850 --> 00:16:37,570
is part of this plan. We'll start with the public

255
00:16:37,570 --> 00:16:42,730
safety levy. So the 2026 public safety levy is 1%

256
00:16:42,730 --> 00:16:52,319
of the 2025 taxation demand, or 2 million. $42,700. This

257
00:16:52,319 --> 00:16:58,159
is recommended to fund four additional firefighters, three RCMP members,

258
00:16:58,159 --> 00:17:02,359
one police services financial analyst and two by law enforcement

259
00:17:02,359 --> 00:17:08,299
officers. This will total 900,800 in 2026. And then be

260
00:17:08,299 --> 00:17:15,059
annualized in 2027. Ongoing the remaining 2026 balance of $1.14

261
00:17:15,059 --> 00:17:18,565
million. Is further recommended to be used as part of

262
00:17:18,565 --> 00:17:22,725
this budget to help fund the RCMP contract. Cost increase

263
00:17:22,725 --> 00:17:28,798
associated with maintaining our current RCMP complement. The second budget

264
00:17:28,798 --> 00:17:32,678
item is the council priority funds. So this plan included

265
00:17:32,678 --> 00:17:38,238
a recommended budget of $500,000 for 2026 to support council

266
00:17:38,238 --> 00:17:44,478
initiatives from this 500,000 250,000. Is being recommended to fund

267
00:17:44,478 --> 00:17:51,767
the sport and community. Events activation request and $100,000 for

268
00:17:51,767 --> 00:17:57,967
the enhanced business improvements area services request. This leaves $150,000.

269
00:17:59,597 --> 00:18:04,397
Unallocated and is available for additional requests in 2026 or

270
00:18:04,397 --> 00:18:07,397
to be used as a funding source today to bring

271
00:18:07,397 --> 00:18:12,659
forward other budget requests in the budget volume. You'll find

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00:18:12,659 --> 00:18:17,779
this $150,000 as a budget request titled council initiatives under

273
00:18:17,779 --> 00:18:23,659
the governance and leadership service Area Council also has $185,000

274
00:18:23,659 --> 00:18:27,539
remaining in the council strategic reserve and this is available

275
00:18:27,539 --> 00:18:31,824
for one time purposes. So now I will welcome the

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00:18:31,824 --> 00:18:36,224
acting director of Airport Finance and corporate services, parthartpartel. And

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we'll start with the airport. Thank you. Thank you. Good

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00:18:40,588 --> 00:18:46,580
morning, parse. Good morning, your worship. The airport is a

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00:18:46,580 --> 00:18:51,300
widow and rapidly growing aviation and transportation hub serving communities

280
00:18:51,300 --> 00:18:54,460
within the Okanagan Valley by being an economic engine for

281
00:18:54,460 --> 00:18:58,060
the region and providing high quality facilities in a safe

282
00:18:58,060 --> 00:19:02,540
and costeffective manner. Currently, the airport offers more than 60

283
00:19:02,540 --> 00:19:05,940
daily nonstop flights to 21 year round and seasonal destina.

284
00:19:05,506 --> 00:19:10,756
Destinations with eight airlines. Looking first at our key accomplishments

285
00:19:10,756 --> 00:19:14,676
for 2025. We are on track for another record year

286
00:19:14,676 --> 00:19:18,916
with annual passengers expected to exceed 2.3 million, which represents

287
00:19:18,916 --> 00:19:22,116
a growth of more than 9%. Over our previous all

288
00:19:22,116 --> 00:19:25,596
time high of 2.1 million passengers, which we reached last

289
00:19:25,596 --> 00:19:31,621
year. This. Passenger growth has been driven by enhanced air

290
00:19:31,621 --> 00:19:35,061
service, including up to four times daily service to Toronto.

291
00:19:36,768 --> 00:19:39,728
This includes service with Porter Airlines in Utah, which we

292
00:19:39,728 --> 00:19:43,133
welcomed in the spring of this year. Enhanced connectivity within

293
00:19:43,133 --> 00:19:46,693
the region, such as through the recently added Cranbrook service

294
00:19:46,693 --> 00:19:50,133
through Pacific coastal airlines and improved service to the sun

295
00:19:50,133 --> 00:19:55,293
destinations. Overall, the airport's 2025 seat capacity has seen an

296
00:19:55,293 --> 00:19:59,601
increase of more than 16%. 2025 has also been a

297
00:19:59,601 --> 00:20:03,441
very busy construction year for the airport. We have completed

298
00:20:03,441 --> 00:20:07,995
the construction of the operations and emergency services building. A

299
00:20:07,995 --> 00:20:10,275
multiyear project which has been completed on time and on

300
00:20:10,275 --> 00:20:14,560
budget. The airport also continues to make significant progress with

301
00:20:14,560 --> 00:20:17,960
the construction of the airport terminal building expansion, which is

302
00:20:17,960 --> 00:20:22,160
slated to open in Q one of 2026. This project

303
00:20:22,160 --> 00:20:24,960
is expected to be completed on budget and ahead of

304
00:20:24,960 --> 00:20:29,640
the original timeline. Finally, construction work is underway on the

305
00:20:29,640 --> 00:20:32,438
airport hotel in Parcade. As well as on the. Expansion

306
00:20:32,438 --> 00:20:37,603
of the campus childcare facility. With regards to continuous improvements,

307
00:20:37,603 --> 00:20:41,723
the airport continues to renew terminal building infrastructure, including both

308
00:20:41,723 --> 00:20:45,443
lifecycle replacements as well as upgrades to critical assets, in

309
00:20:45,443 --> 00:20:48,603
addition to ensuring that assets are well maintained to maximize

310
00:20:48,603 --> 00:20:54,112
their useful lives. Airport also continues to purchase airsite equipment

311
00:20:54,112 --> 00:20:57,832
as required. This includes additions to our fleet to keep

312
00:20:57,832 --> 00:21:01,140
up with our significant growth. A good example of this

313
00:21:01,140 --> 00:21:03,980
is our recent purchase of a third aircraft rescue and

314
00:21:03,980 --> 00:21:07,860
firefighting vehicle. Which was purchased because our growth require that

315
00:21:07,860 --> 00:21:11,020
we be able to provide a category seven emergency response.

316
00:21:11,020 --> 00:21:15,236
Rather than a category six response. Looking next at our

317
00:21:15,236 --> 00:21:20,689
performance measures. The airport's performance measures are based on the

318
00:21:20,689 --> 00:21:24,489
key strategic goals within the airport strategic plan one of

319
00:21:24,489 --> 00:21:28,969
these strategic objectives is regional economic development. As the largest

320
00:21:28,969 --> 00:21:32,689
municipality owned airport in Canada, the 9th busiest nationally and

321
00:21:32,689 --> 00:21:35,569
the second busiest in BC. The airport strives to be

322
00:21:35,569 --> 00:21:39,017
a key driver. Of economic growth within the region. In

323
00:21:39,017 --> 00:21:42,297
this regard, the airport has seen strong year over year

324
00:21:42,297 --> 00:21:46,497
passenger volume growth with a 9% growth expected this year

325
00:21:46,497 --> 00:21:49,577
and a further growth of over 6% expected in 2026.

326
00:21:51,220 --> 00:21:54,740
As for accountable leadership, the airport was able to achieve

327
00:21:54,740 --> 00:21:58,868
airport carbon accreditation level three this year. A significant milestone,

328
00:21:58,868 --> 00:22:01,308
which was reached one year ahead of target, as our

329
00:22:01,308 --> 00:22:04,668
goal was to be at level three. In 2026, the

330
00:22:04,668 --> 00:22:09,868
airport continues to implement initiatives and projects around sustainability and

331
00:22:09,868 --> 00:22:13,188
climate action. In line with the airport's overall objectives of

332
00:22:13,188 --> 00:22:17,588
being carbon neutral by 2030 and net zero by 2040.

333
00:22:17,588 --> 00:22:22,301
This concludes my. Comment of worship. Paris. Thank you. So

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00:22:22,301 --> 00:22:28,421
the airport service area makes up $113.1 million of the

335
00:22:28,421 --> 00:22:37,532
total city's 1 billion. $50,000 budget. And is operated under

336
00:22:37,532 --> 00:22:42,104
seven cost centers. This area is predominantly funded from fees

337
00:22:42,104 --> 00:22:46,586
and charges. And also includes the funding recommendation of transfers

338
00:22:46,586 --> 00:22:52,526
from reserves and other revenues and grant funding. The 2025

339
00:22:52,526 --> 00:23:01,987
revised budget. Totaled $168,000,000. After the annualization of previously

340
00:23:01,987 --> 00:23:10,229
approved budget items. We are starting 2026. With the $74,572,000.

341
00:23:11,857 --> 00:23:14,497
In order for the service area to maintain current service

342
00:23:14,497 --> 00:23:22,268
levels, an additional $12,140,000 is being requested. And to enhance

343
00:23:22,268 --> 00:23:29,877
service levels, an additional $26,348,000 is requested. This area has

344
00:23:29,877 --> 00:23:34,874
three operating requests. Excuse me.

345
00:23:42,275 --> 00:23:49,675
The first one being additional revenue of $5.9 million. Ongoing.

346
00:23:49,675 --> 00:23:57,228
This is coming. From. Covers grant funding that was previously

347
00:23:57,228 --> 00:24:01,061
in budget. As well as be contributed to reserve for

348
00:24:01,061 --> 00:24:06,883
future years. The second request is for $1.8 million in

349
00:24:06,883 --> 00:24:13,683
2026 and then $1.6 million ongoing, funded from reserves and

350
00:24:13,683 --> 00:24:17,821
other revenues. And the final one being the airport strategic

351
00:24:17,821 --> 00:24:24,621
enhancements at $124,000 in 2026. And 242,000 ongoing, funded from

352
00:24:24,621 --> 00:24:34,277
reserves. This area's capital. Request for 2026. Completely match. The

353
00:24:34,277 --> 00:24:38,197
council approved ten year capital plan. Does council have any

354
00:24:38,197 --> 00:24:41,877
questions on any of the airport operating or capital requests.

355
00:24:43,615 --> 00:24:47,401
Councilor Lovegrove, you have a question? I apologize. I was

356
00:24:47,401 --> 00:24:49,241
left behind because you'd mentioned you were going to start

357
00:24:49,241 --> 00:24:51,121
with the airport. But then you actually went into reserve

358
00:24:51,121 --> 00:24:54,121
funds, and I had a question about the reserve fund.

359
00:24:54,121 --> 00:24:56,881
If you were touching on them. If that's okay, your

360
00:24:56,881 --> 00:25:01,415
worship. I'm happy to answer questions right now. Or we

361
00:25:01,415 --> 00:25:04,415
can talk about them when the individual requests come up.

362
00:25:04,415 --> 00:25:07,135
It's actually about the airport reserve fund, and it's actually

363
00:25:07,135 --> 00:25:09,415
a general question. I have no problem with us being

364
00:25:09,415 --> 00:25:16,022
proposed, but the reserves for future. I want to make

365
00:25:16,022 --> 00:25:19,342
sure I was reading this right. Under the projected balance,

366
00:25:19,342 --> 00:25:24,586
2025. Am I right that that shows a 14 million

367
00:25:24,586 --> 00:25:34,446
deficit carryover to 2026? Operations.

368
00:25:35,714 --> 00:25:42,369
Your worship. That chart in the financial plan. Makes the

369
00:25:42,369 --> 00:25:48,009
assumption that everything will be spent in 2025, but most

370
00:25:48,009 --> 00:25:51,129
likely it will be carried over into the 2026 budget

371
00:25:51,129 --> 00:25:54,838
year. So the balance will not fall into a zero

372
00:25:54,838 --> 00:25:58,718
balance. Okay. So it's shown here on page 42 as

373
00:25:58,718 --> 00:26:03,558
negative 14.418. And you're just saying that's basically. Bookkeeping. In

374
00:26:03,558 --> 00:26:07,438
practical sense, we're fine. Yes, you're welcome. And thanks for

375
00:26:07,438 --> 00:26:12,121
that. And then as our funding, our borrowing funds come

376
00:26:12,121 --> 00:26:16,441
online that we've just recently went to council, for they

377
00:26:16,441 --> 00:26:19,481
will be contributed to that reserve, and then it'll be

378
00:26:19,481 --> 00:26:22,121
put back into a positive balance. Okay, thank you. And

379
00:26:22,121 --> 00:26:25,321
just. Second question, Councilor Lovegrove. 1 second, I believe. Part

380
00:26:25,321 --> 00:26:27,281
is going to touch upon that first before you go

381
00:26:27,281 --> 00:26:32,327
to the second question. Your worship. We have two broad

382
00:26:32,327 --> 00:26:34,767
categories of reserves. One is aif, one is non eif.

383
00:26:36,228 --> 00:26:38,028
And so over the last several years, we had built

384
00:26:38,028 --> 00:26:40,788
up our EIF reserve balance for the purposes of carrying

385
00:26:40,788 --> 00:26:42,708
out what we are doing at this time, which is

386
00:26:42,708 --> 00:26:45,068
the expansion of the ATB and that's why we have

387
00:26:45,068 --> 00:26:50,371
drawn that reserve down. Going forward. As we have new

388
00:26:50,371 --> 00:26:53,131
facilities come online with the additional revenues and fees and

389
00:26:53,131 --> 00:26:56,651
charges that reserve balance. Will again start to build up

390
00:26:56,651 --> 00:27:00,790
and set us up for future capital projects. Exactly what

391
00:27:00,790 --> 00:27:04,830
I saw coming in projected contributions for 2026. So I

392
00:27:04,830 --> 00:27:07,750
appreciated that, and I was hoping that the answer you

393
00:27:07,750 --> 00:27:09,630
just gave was the answer. And so thank you for

394
00:27:09,630 --> 00:27:13,537
that. The other question I have. Was on the airport

395
00:27:13,537 --> 00:27:16,617
improvement fee for the operating request. It shows a dashed

396
00:27:16,617 --> 00:27:18,657
line, but I think you had mentioned just verbally as

397
00:27:18,657 --> 00:27:22,017
you were speaking to it is a 5.6 million. Revenue

398
00:27:22,017 --> 00:27:30,043
for 2026. You'll worship.

399
00:27:33,673 --> 00:27:38,833
Our expected revenue for AIF next year is around $35,000,000.35.

400
00:27:38,833 --> 00:27:42,233
Okay, Mr. 30. Okay, thank you. Councilor Cannon, do you

401
00:27:42,233 --> 00:27:44,553
have questions? Yeah, thanks, your worship. And I just wanted

402
00:27:44,553 --> 00:27:48,513
to, first of all, say thanks. Congratulations. Your recent award

403
00:27:48,513 --> 00:27:51,913
for the airport for your. Continued to lead in the

404
00:27:51,913 --> 00:27:56,397
environmental initiatives and. I think it's incumbent to reinforce the

405
00:27:56,397 --> 00:27:59,837
value of the airport from an economic perspective. I believe

406
00:27:59,837 --> 00:28:05,175
it's about a 1.2% taxation impact. We garner from about

407
00:28:05,175 --> 00:28:07,095
two and a half million dollars that you contribute to

408
00:28:07,095 --> 00:28:09,535
the city general reserves. We thank you. Just had a

409
00:28:09,535 --> 00:28:14,055
specific question. It's not addressed. In the budget. But I

410
00:28:14,055 --> 00:28:16,855
wonder if there's any operational or capital budget implications as

411
00:28:16,855 --> 00:28:19,855
a result of the third party cybersecurity incident that took

412
00:28:19,855 --> 00:28:24,217
place at the airport back in October. Morning, Philip. Morning,

413
00:28:24,217 --> 00:28:33,903
worship. Your worship through the councilor cannon. Yes. There will

414
00:28:33,903 --> 00:28:37,703
be some additional operating costs in regards to that I

415
00:28:37,703 --> 00:28:39,823
obviously can't get into the details of it. But what

416
00:28:39,823 --> 00:28:42,583
I can tell you is that the corrective action plan

417
00:28:42,583 --> 00:28:45,823
shows a number of items that are being addressed not

418
00:28:45,823 --> 00:28:48,703
just at our airport but across Canada, but those items

419
00:28:48,703 --> 00:28:51,223
are easily covered off in the existing budget, your worship.

420
00:28:52,732 --> 00:29:01,624
Thank you. Thank you. We will now move into community,

421
00:29:01,624 --> 00:29:05,704
safety and bylaw. Just before we start there, I just

422
00:29:05,704 --> 00:29:10,624
want. To thank Mr. Samadar and all of the team

423
00:29:10,624 --> 00:29:13,986
that are here. For the operational success of what they

424
00:29:13,986 --> 00:29:17,800
do in running the airport. From behalf of the community,

425
00:29:17,800 --> 00:29:20,560
we do truly appreciate it and thank you for being

426
00:29:20,560 --> 00:29:22,720
here today. This presentation and thank you for what you

427
00:29:22,720 --> 00:29:27,512
do in the success in running the airport. Thank you,

428
00:29:27,512 --> 00:29:31,432
your worship. So we will welcome 1 second. Councilor Lovegrove.

429
00:29:31,432 --> 00:29:35,272
Just 1 second, please. Before you leave, Councilor Lovegrove, please.

430
00:29:35,272 --> 00:29:43,085
Thanks for worship. Councilor Wolverich, my apologies. No worries. I

431
00:29:43,085 --> 00:29:44,325
just wanted to thank the team of the airport as

432
00:29:44,325 --> 00:29:47,645
well. And I think what's important that obviously gets lumped

433
00:29:47,645 --> 00:29:50,525
into our core budget. Here is the amount that is

434
00:29:50,525 --> 00:29:53,325
spent on the airport that has no taxation demand, and

435
00:29:53,325 --> 00:29:58,100
most of it is actually. Federally regulated for aviation. And

436
00:29:58,100 --> 00:29:59,660
I think when we look through our binder, we question

437
00:29:59,660 --> 00:30:02,540
certain items, but it does need to be acknowledged that

438
00:30:02,540 --> 00:30:06,580
the upgrades that are requested are generally regulated federally, and

439
00:30:06,580 --> 00:30:08,540
that's unique. To the city of Clonan with no taxation

440
00:30:08,540 --> 00:30:11,060
demand. So thank you to the YLW. Team for all

441
00:30:11,060 --> 00:30:13,580
the great work you do. Thanks for worship. Thank you,

442
00:30:13,580 --> 00:30:15,820
Councilwich. Thank you. Very much. My apologies on missing that

443
00:30:15,820 --> 00:30:19,073
on the light. Thank you very much. All right. Thank

444
00:30:19,073 --> 00:30:21,593
you. Your worship will now move to community, safety and

445
00:30:21,593 --> 00:30:25,873
bylaw and welcome the general Manager of People and Protective

446
00:30:25,873 --> 00:30:32,921
Services, Mr. Stew Leatherdale. Good morning, sue. Good morning. Your

447
00:30:32,921 --> 00:30:36,335
worship and council. So we're going to get into community

448
00:30:36,335 --> 00:30:40,615
safety and bylaw services first. The key objective of these

449
00:30:40,615 --> 00:30:45,304
groups. Are to maintain community standards as well as to

450
00:30:45,304 --> 00:30:48,464
preserve and enhance safety. And, of course, a sense of

451
00:30:48,464 --> 00:30:53,824
safety in our community. Bylaw services upholds community bylaw standards

452
00:30:53,824 --> 00:30:58,264
through a delicate balance of education and enforcement, and the

453
00:30:58,264 --> 00:31:01,824
branch consists of three different teams. Our general duty by

454
00:31:01,824 --> 00:31:05,767
law officer. Officers, our encampment response unit, and our newly

455
00:31:05,767 --> 00:31:12,501
formed informing investigative services team. The. Community Safety Services Branch

456
00:31:12,501 --> 00:31:17,581
focuses more on crime prevention and crime reduction initiatives and

457
00:31:17,581 --> 00:31:21,311
working on that sense of safety. A couple of key

458
00:31:21,311 --> 00:31:24,511
accomplishments that I'd like to highlight. Include the community safety

459
00:31:24,511 --> 00:31:28,111
plan. Again, which completed six and other six actions and

460
00:31:28,111 --> 00:31:33,191
initiated nine this year. In total, 18 separate actions are

461
00:31:33,191 --> 00:31:37,431
now on target to conclude before the five year strategic

462
00:31:37,431 --> 00:31:43,624
plan. Sunsets next year. One of those community safety plan

463
00:31:43,624 --> 00:31:47,578
initiatives, of course, is the recently announced. Two year crisis

464
00:31:47,578 --> 00:31:53,538
response community led initiative for addressing mental health in the

465
00:31:53,538 --> 00:31:58,178
community and assisting the RCMP that launched just recently here

466
00:31:58,178 --> 00:32:03,405
with our partner, the canadian mental health association. Of course,

467
00:32:03,405 --> 00:32:06,205
the marriage task force on crime reduction had a number

468
00:32:06,205 --> 00:32:10,805
of successes, including the completion of the chronic offender advocacy

469
00:32:10,805 --> 00:32:15,045
paper, which included calls to action both federally and provincially,

470
00:32:15,045 --> 00:32:20,245
on criminal justice reform. Finally, our teams reimagine and restructured

471
00:32:20,245 --> 00:32:25,180
our outdoor sheltering management strateg. Strategies with safety and security

472
00:32:25,180 --> 00:32:29,340
in mind for city staff, for people sheltering outside, and

473
00:32:29,340 --> 00:32:33,994
for the surrounding community. The new strategy is showing some

474
00:32:33,994 --> 00:32:39,634
really amazing successes at transitioning people from outdoors into housing

475
00:32:39,634 --> 00:32:42,754
in fact, this year, over 60 people have moved from

476
00:32:42,754 --> 00:32:49,742
our designated site. Sheltering outside. Into other housing options and

477
00:32:49,742 --> 00:32:53,580
shelters around the city. In the coming year, Bylaw will

478
00:32:53,580 --> 00:32:57,340
finalize the implementation of their investigative services team. This is

479
00:32:57,340 --> 00:33:01,780
a team of officers who tackle the most complex files,

480
00:33:01,780 --> 00:33:06,300
including property and agricultural files, often in collaboration. With many

481
00:33:06,300 --> 00:33:13,455
other city departments and other external agencies. Our new records

482
00:33:13,455 --> 00:33:17,015
management system will be implemented as well for bylaw in

483
00:33:17,015 --> 00:33:22,135
2026, which is expected to improve service and create a

484
00:33:22,135 --> 00:33:25,855
new level of reporting and file management capability that is

485
00:33:25,855 --> 00:33:30,147
quite long overdue for the branch. And we'll continue to

486
00:33:30,147 --> 00:33:33,547
build on the bylaw officer training Academy to formalize a

487
00:33:33,547 --> 00:33:36,907
higher standard of training for our bylaw officers. The training

488
00:33:36,907 --> 00:33:43,387
is designed to reinforce consistent, credible, and professional service delivery

489
00:33:43,387 --> 00:33:47,806
across. The community. Take a look at a few of

490
00:33:47,806 --> 00:33:53,269
the performance measures for. The services performance measure number two.

491
00:33:54,919 --> 00:33:57,319
Al Khan Tan which is the number of general duty

492
00:33:57,319 --> 00:34:02,040
and encampment response service request. This measure helps us to

493
00:34:02,040 --> 00:34:05,560
follow both the increased increase in demand as well as

494
00:34:05,560 --> 00:34:09,760
the shifting nature of work for bylaw services. General duty

495
00:34:09,760 --> 00:34:13,800
files typically require just a single officer to attend, whereas

496
00:34:13,800 --> 00:34:17,440
encampment response files require at least two and often many,

497
00:34:17,440 --> 00:34:21,621
many more bylaw officers to work on those files. This

498
00:34:21,621 --> 00:34:25,821
year, bylaw services is actually projecting an increase of approximately

499
00:34:25,821 --> 00:34:29,766
20%. In the number of files from 2024 due to

500
00:34:29,766 --> 00:34:33,926
a very busy summer season, as well as increasing ways

501
00:34:33,926 --> 00:34:37,166
that the public is able to access bylaw services, such

502
00:34:37,166 --> 00:34:41,468
as additional online options. Performance measure number three is the

503
00:34:41,468 --> 00:34:44,988
average number of days to close general duty and encampment.

504
00:34:44,988 --> 00:34:50,068
Response service requests. Most bylaw files are complaint driven, and

505
00:34:50,068 --> 00:34:53,508
they do vary quite a bit in complexity. So monitoring

506
00:34:53,508 --> 00:34:56,828
the average days to close a service request is a

507
00:34:56,828 --> 00:35:01,621
really good indicator of our overall responsive. Responsiveness and efficiency

508
00:35:01,621 --> 00:35:05,261
of the service that we're providing to citizens. The target

509
00:35:05,261 --> 00:35:10,496
was determined there internally to help drive. Citizen satisfaction results,

510
00:35:10,496 --> 00:35:14,696
which appears in performance measure number one. And finally, caseload

511
00:35:14,696 --> 00:35:18,896
per officer represents the workload on our bylaw officers, which.

512
00:35:20,104 --> 00:35:24,162
Has actually decreased quite substantially in the recent years. As

513
00:35:24,162 --> 00:35:27,842
a direct result of investments made by council. And with

514
00:35:27,842 --> 00:35:31,962
that, I'll turn it over. To Ms. Antuns. Excellent. Thank

515
00:35:31,962 --> 00:35:36,322
you, stew. So the community safety and bylaw service area

516
00:35:36,322 --> 00:35:41,202
makes up $11.4 million of the city's overall expenditure budget

517
00:35:41,202 --> 00:35:48,396
and is operated under three cost centers. The funding. For

518
00:35:48,396 --> 00:35:52,196
the service area is predominantly property tax, with the addition

519
00:35:52,196 --> 00:35:56,972
of some transfers from reserves and fees. And charges. The

520
00:35:56,972 --> 00:36:05,516
2025 revised budget for the service area was $10,350,000. After

521
00:36:05,516 --> 00:36:09,756
approved ad analyzing and adding the previously approved budget request,

522
00:36:12,124 --> 00:36:18,461
The service area is starting 2026 within $9,300,000 budget. In

523
00:36:18,461 --> 00:36:21,381
order for this service area to continue to maintain current

524
00:36:21,381 --> 00:36:29,298
service levels, an additional $606,000 is requested. And enhancements of

525
00:36:29,298 --> 00:36:36,731
$1.55 million is requested. The service area has three operating

526
00:36:36,731 --> 00:36:41,451
requests, the first one being the bylaw service enhancements. This

527
00:36:41,451 --> 00:36:49,531
request is for $251,000 in 2026, increasing to 282,000 ongoing,

528
00:36:49,531 --> 00:36:52,931
and is recommended to be funded from the public safety.

529
00:36:54,658 --> 00:36:57,378
Levy. This request does include one vehicle as a one

530
00:36:57,378 --> 00:37:05,420
time. Expense in 2026. Second request is the enhanced business

531
00:37:05,420 --> 00:37:11,660
improvement area services. This is $100,000 ongoing, funded from taxation,

532
00:37:11,660 --> 00:37:16,060
but has been recommended to come out of the $500,000

533
00:37:16,060 --> 00:37:21,876
that was originally allocated. For council's strategic initiatives. And the

534
00:37:21,876 --> 00:37:27,636
third request is for $1.2 million in 2026 and 2027,

535
00:37:27,636 --> 00:37:33,550
funded from reserve. There are no priority one preliminary request

536
00:37:33,550 --> 00:37:36,310
for the capital program in the service area. Would council

537
00:37:36,310 --> 00:37:39,230
like to discuss any of these requests. Thank you. I

538
00:37:39,230 --> 00:37:46,004
do have a few questions, starting with councilor. Stock. Thank

539
00:37:46,004 --> 00:37:48,884
you. Thank you for the presentation. My question is just

540
00:37:48,884 --> 00:37:53,084
regarding the addition of two new bylaw officers. Stewart, as

541
00:37:53,084 --> 00:37:56,924
you pointed out, there is a dramatic improvement in caseload

542
00:37:56,924 --> 00:38:00,938
per officer. In the last two years. And my question

543
00:38:00,938 --> 00:38:05,380
is, with the addition of two, is that essentially. To

544
00:38:05,380 --> 00:38:10,604
man the department for growth. Deck our natural growth. And

545
00:38:10,604 --> 00:38:14,484
the backside of that question is, is the bylaw department

546
00:38:14,484 --> 00:38:19,063
number of officers appropriate. Now, for our city. Size now

547
00:38:19,063 --> 00:38:23,248
that we caught up two years ago. Yes, your worship.

548
00:38:26,389 --> 00:38:28,709
The additions to bylaw over the last number of years

549
00:38:28,709 --> 00:38:31,869
has been for growth and also as a result of

550
00:38:31,869 --> 00:38:36,855
council priorities. The two officers that were proposing this year

551
00:38:36,855 --> 00:38:41,006
will round out. The two that were provided last year

552
00:38:41,006 --> 00:38:46,046
specifically for a dedicated team in the Rutland area. With

553
00:38:46,046 --> 00:38:50,751
regards to a target. We are approaching our target. For

554
00:38:50,751 --> 00:38:54,551
what the bylaw team feels is the appropriate file per

555
00:38:54,551 --> 00:39:00,937
officer load. We will monitor the file count as we

556
00:39:00,937 --> 00:39:04,537
move forward. As mentioned, we are seeing some increases again.

557
00:39:04,537 --> 00:39:08,097
This year. However, we're currently at target. At target. Good.

558
00:39:09,692 --> 00:39:11,932
I think really worth emphasizing because we have done a

559
00:39:11,932 --> 00:39:15,172
push these last few years to really strengthen our bylaw

560
00:39:15,172 --> 00:39:17,812
team, and it sounds like we're actually getting to where

561
00:39:17,812 --> 00:39:20,052
we want to. Be. And I'm encouraged to hear that.

562
00:39:20,052 --> 00:39:25,323
Thank you, Councilor Hodge. Please. Thank you, Mr. Mayor, just

563
00:39:25,323 --> 00:39:29,487
two generic questions for you. First of all, could you

564
00:39:29,487 --> 00:39:36,452
just define encampment? What do you refer to? Cabinet responses,

565
00:39:36,452 --> 00:39:44,955
et cetera. What qualifies as an encampment. You're worshipping. An

566
00:39:44,955 --> 00:39:50,051
encambra would be where an individual. Arrests, a shelter, tent

567
00:39:50,051 --> 00:39:55,650
or other shelter. In the community. So it's not necessary

568
00:39:55,650 --> 00:39:58,170
to encampment. It's not like a tiny house. Or one

569
00:39:58,170 --> 00:40:00,210
of the places that we put together. It's an accountant

570
00:40:00,210 --> 00:40:04,591
that they put together. Correct, your worship. So it's an

571
00:40:04,591 --> 00:40:07,471
individual erecting a shelter in the community it does not

572
00:40:07,471 --> 00:40:13,666
refer to. Obviously any of our shelters, okay? People to

573
00:40:13,666 --> 00:40:16,026
understand when they're trying to sort through it. And the

574
00:40:16,026 --> 00:40:18,826
other point is just a formality for going through the

575
00:40:18,826 --> 00:40:23,238
day. When you're going from page to page flipping the

576
00:40:23,238 --> 00:40:26,838
boat, we put this manual I spent half my time

577
00:40:26,838 --> 00:40:28,958
trying to find out where we are, and then by

578
00:40:28,958 --> 00:40:31,118
the time I get there, you're on to the next

579
00:40:31,118 --> 00:40:33,598
page, it'd be really helpful if you could say. Go

580
00:40:33,598 --> 00:40:35,958
to page seven. Go to page nine. Thank you, your

581
00:40:35,958 --> 00:40:38,198
worship. I'm searching around for. It. And then I get

582
00:40:38,198 --> 00:40:41,381
there and you're off the next one. Damn. So I

583
00:40:41,381 --> 00:40:44,221
just appreciate that. Thank you. Absolutely. Thank you. Thank you.

584
00:40:44,221 --> 00:40:47,301
Councilor Cannon, please. Thank you. A couple of questions. One

585
00:40:47,301 --> 00:40:51,101
is the 100,000 that enhanced business improvement area. How will

586
00:40:51,101 --> 00:40:56,386
that be split between. Irba and downtunk, or is it

587
00:40:56,386 --> 00:41:02,904
all going to. Your worship. The 100,000 is placement funding.

588
00:41:04,651 --> 00:41:06,691
Coming out of the mayor's house. Force and crime reduction.

589
00:41:06,691 --> 00:41:12,131
This was an initiative to bolster. And strengthen our bia

590
00:41:12,131 --> 00:41:14,931
functions that are working there. So there is some work

591
00:41:14,931 --> 00:41:20,671
to do. To determine exactly how to deploy those funds

592
00:41:20,671 --> 00:41:23,551
next year to meet the objectives of the mayor's. Task

593
00:41:23,551 --> 00:41:25,191
force. Yeah, I was a member of the mayor's task

594
00:41:25,191 --> 00:41:27,231
force. That's why we didn't nailed it down. So I

595
00:41:27,231 --> 00:41:28,871
was just wondering if you were able to. Get that

596
00:41:28,871 --> 00:41:30,591
nailed down as how it's being split, but it's still

597
00:41:30,591 --> 00:41:35,811
uncertain. Your worship. There is currently a policy. Which determines

598
00:41:35,811 --> 00:41:39,411
the split for any of these BIa programs. So we'll

599
00:41:39,411 --> 00:41:43,112
look at that. We'll look at other options. Training and

600
00:41:43,112 --> 00:41:46,552
other options to try to support these BIA programs. Okay.

601
00:41:46,552 --> 00:41:50,707
And with regard to. Last year we had looking at

602
00:41:50,707 --> 00:41:55,027
our outdoor overnight sheltering and it looked at the request.

603
00:41:56,618 --> 00:41:58,378
It was a request for 100,000 last year and then

604
00:41:58,378 --> 00:42:03,725
200,000 this year. It was basically increasing by 100,000 each

605
00:42:03,725 --> 00:42:08,796
year, so I'm not sure. It was overnight sheltering. Additional

606
00:42:08,796 --> 00:42:11,196
ongoing budget is requested to address the impact, so there

607
00:42:11,196 --> 00:42:13,076
must be a base budget and that we're adding to

608
00:42:13,076 --> 00:42:17,139
it. 100 last year, 200 this year. So it's just

609
00:42:17,139 --> 00:42:21,379
1.2 over and above the base budget. Yes, correct. So

610
00:42:21,379 --> 00:42:25,019
what is the base budget then? The base budget is,

611
00:42:25,019 --> 00:42:31,782
I believe, around. $500,000. And your worship for clarity. That's

612
00:42:31,782 --> 00:42:38,887
materials and services. To help manage outdoor sheltering throughout the

613
00:42:38,887 --> 00:42:42,687
community, not necessarily just at our designated site. And it

614
00:42:42,687 --> 00:42:47,585
certainly does not include staff time or vehicles. This is

615
00:42:47,585 --> 00:42:50,745
just peripheral equipment and services that are needed to help

616
00:42:50,745 --> 00:42:54,919
manage this file. So at OS four. What do we

617
00:42:54,919 --> 00:42:58,719
cost to be responsible for the 24 and the 424?

618
00:42:58,719 --> 00:43:01,279
Seven security guards and. What else do we have? Correct?

619
00:43:02,497 --> 00:43:06,089
So. We have obviously, rental of fencing in that area

620
00:43:06,089 --> 00:43:10,129
under the current operation, security guards is a significant expense

621
00:43:10,129 --> 00:43:16,430
under the current operation. Refuge removal. Washroom, cement, bullards, all

622
00:43:16,430 --> 00:43:22,121
of the materials necessary to manage that area. Because you

623
00:43:22,121 --> 00:43:25,161
mentioned you've had good success. I went by there yesterday

624
00:43:25,161 --> 00:43:29,288
at 330 and accounted 26 people. Four security guards and

625
00:43:29,288 --> 00:43:33,260
four BYL officers. At 330 in the afternoon. And what

626
00:43:33,260 --> 00:43:36,300
I'm hearing from the community that designated outdoor sheltering site

627
00:43:36,300 --> 00:43:39,620
offered, often referred to as those four. It's not reducing

628
00:43:39,620 --> 00:43:42,500
illegal sheltering from taking place elsewhere in the community. It's

629
00:43:42,500 --> 00:43:44,940
spread it all over. I've met with the merchants at

630
00:43:44,940 --> 00:43:49,020
Willow Park Mall and Rotland. Peter Independent groceries Michael Neil

631
00:43:49,020 --> 00:43:52,241
Mosaic book downtown kelowna so I don't think. It's working.

632
00:43:52,241 --> 00:43:54,361
And I'd like to see OS four scale down rather

633
00:43:54,361 --> 00:43:58,641
than putting. 1.2 million into this, or 1.7 altogether. Because

634
00:43:58,641 --> 00:44:01,761
I'm compassionate, like all of us around this table. However,

635
00:44:01,761 --> 00:44:04,960
I don't think what we're doing is working. This. Catching

636
00:44:04,960 --> 00:44:07,480
a lease program is not working, and we need to

637
00:44:07,480 --> 00:44:09,840
take a different approach, and so. We can get the

638
00:44:09,840 --> 00:44:14,840
rail trail back to the citizens. And we added social

639
00:44:14,840 --> 00:44:17,320
staff to our social team a couple of years ago,

640
00:44:17,320 --> 00:44:19,840
adding more bylaw officers, I don't see this a productive

641
00:44:19,840 --> 00:44:22,880
use of taxpayers money. And I noticed that our superintendent.

642
00:44:24,302 --> 00:44:25,782
In the office, in the audience, and I'm just wondering

643
00:44:25,782 --> 00:44:28,182
if I could make a motion. To hear from the

644
00:44:28,182 --> 00:44:31,102
superintendent if he feels this is the best use of

645
00:44:31,102 --> 00:44:33,022
our taxpayers money or if there's a better way that

646
00:44:33,022 --> 00:44:38,619
we could address. This outdoor sheltering. And deal with the

647
00:44:38,619 --> 00:44:42,329
homelessness in a more efficient way. Councilor. Thank you for

648
00:44:42,329 --> 00:44:44,369
your comments. I'd like to make that as a motion

649
00:44:44,369 --> 00:44:47,482
to hear from the superintendent, you, worship. Do we have

650
00:44:47,482 --> 00:44:56,796
a seconder? All in favor? No. Opposed. Thank you. Well,

651
00:44:56,796 --> 00:44:59,956
just. Counselor. It was passed and it was opposed. Your

652
00:44:59,956 --> 00:45:04,795
worship. Sorry, I just want. To get clarity on. Counselor

653
00:45:04,795 --> 00:45:08,475
Lovegrove and councilor Cannon. For everyone else opposed. Thank you.

654
00:45:08,475 --> 00:45:12,670
Thank you. Councilor. That's the end of that motion. Thank

655
00:45:12,670 --> 00:45:16,790
you. Thank you for cutting me off. Councilor Walbridge, please.

656
00:45:16,790 --> 00:45:19,830
Thanks for worship. Pertaining to what's before us right now,

657
00:45:19,830 --> 00:45:23,679
I. Just wanted a little bit more clarity on. Stu

658
00:45:23,679 --> 00:45:26,679
on the Bia service improvements and councilor cannon went there

659
00:45:26,679 --> 00:45:29,399
a little bit just in. A follow up. The 100,000.

660
00:45:29,399 --> 00:45:32,879
I'm generally supportive of both the bylaw investments. And the

661
00:45:32,879 --> 00:45:38,679
BIA service improvements. But just for clarity, DK fully funds

662
00:45:38,679 --> 00:45:41,439
the clean team on their own through their requisitions from

663
00:45:41,439 --> 00:45:44,113
their members. Is the plan that IRBA will do the

664
00:45:44,113 --> 00:45:46,913
same in time. This is seed funding to get that

665
00:45:46,913 --> 00:45:51,450
program up and running or what's the overall strategy? Your

666
00:45:51,450 --> 00:45:53,850
workshop strategy to be determined early in the new year.

667
00:45:55,294 --> 00:45:57,694
I can confirm clean team is one of the options

668
00:45:57,694 --> 00:46:00,494
that our staff have heard from the bias. That are.

669
00:46:00,494 --> 00:46:04,202
That's important service in the community. Do we fund the

670
00:46:04,202 --> 00:46:06,202
DKA's clean team? Or is that all through their own

671
00:46:06,202 --> 00:46:10,162
requisitions. No, your workshop. We don't fund the clean team

672
00:46:10,162 --> 00:46:12,882
currently. Okay, so this. Would just be some seed funding

673
00:46:12,882 --> 00:46:16,289
to get them off the ground, essentially correct. Thank you.

674
00:46:16,289 --> 00:46:20,027
Councilor Weber, please. Yeah. I think last year in our

675
00:46:20,027 --> 00:46:23,187
budget, we did do a significant increase for the business

676
00:46:23,187 --> 00:46:28,862
improvement. Districts. Both downtown and in Rutland. So I'm curious.

677
00:46:32,321 --> 00:46:35,001
Another $100,000. If there seems to be, there should be

678
00:46:35,001 --> 00:46:39,640
a specific idea. Of what we needed for. But there

679
00:46:39,640 --> 00:46:43,726
isn't yet. Just a point of clarification. I'm going to

680
00:46:43,726 --> 00:46:45,606
ask the city clerk because it ended up being. It

681
00:46:45,606 --> 00:46:47,686
was something that came before us, so I'm just going

682
00:46:47,686 --> 00:46:50,766
to ask. For clarification on that with regards to that

683
00:46:50,766 --> 00:46:53,286
direction, just so council is well aware of. Exactly what

684
00:46:53,286 --> 00:46:56,486
we did on that one. Thank you, worship. As the

685
00:46:56,486 --> 00:47:00,166
general manager alluded to, council. Has established a policy for

686
00:47:00,166 --> 00:47:05,735
the funding for. Bias to support them. He may be

687
00:47:05,735 --> 00:47:07,775
able to provide additional details in terms of that, but

688
00:47:07,775 --> 00:47:11,815
the funding is intended to be following the direction set

689
00:47:11,815 --> 00:47:15,415
out in that policy to continue supporting that work. Yeah,

690
00:47:15,415 --> 00:47:17,918
actually it's. A policy I was referring to. They come

691
00:47:17,918 --> 00:47:19,838
out with predictable funding for this group, and I'm just

692
00:47:19,838 --> 00:47:22,118
curious whether this is part of that or something new

693
00:47:22,118 --> 00:47:24,918
and improved in addition to. I will let stew speak

694
00:47:24,918 --> 00:47:29,881
to that. Yeah. Your worship, the policy currently stands that

695
00:47:29,881 --> 00:47:34,201
will support those programs with $100,000 or 25%. Of the

696
00:47:34,201 --> 00:47:39,576
program costs. Our understanding is the mayor's Tas fours wanted

697
00:47:39,576 --> 00:47:44,056
to revisit other ways that we could continue to support.

698
00:47:45,257 --> 00:47:47,777
Those programs in the community to get them up and

699
00:47:47,777 --> 00:47:52,269
running and viable and providing a good service. So in

700
00:47:52,269 --> 00:47:54,229
order to do that, we need some funding to go

701
00:47:54,229 --> 00:47:58,020
back. And think through the different options, whether it's clean

702
00:47:58,020 --> 00:48:01,660
team or adjusting the formula or so. Forth. And obviously

703
00:48:01,660 --> 00:48:05,260
we can come back to council with that review, with

704
00:48:05,260 --> 00:48:09,023
the funding secured to implement. Councilor Weber. Just maybe a

705
00:48:09,023 --> 00:48:11,023
little bit of clarification on that with regards to it.

706
00:48:11,023 --> 00:48:16,169
There's different scales of time. That dka has had their.

707
00:48:18,396 --> 00:48:20,956
Team in force and then Irba, with regards to looking

708
00:48:20,956 --> 00:48:25,159
at establishing their time. So. The overall goal of it

709
00:48:25,159 --> 00:48:28,599
is to make them both extremely, extremely successful within the

710
00:48:28,599 --> 00:48:33,529
community. And who do needs potentially more assistance at this

711
00:48:33,529 --> 00:48:35,929
particular point in time and making it successful for business

712
00:48:35,929 --> 00:48:39,409
owners, and I believe what is being said. And stu,

713
00:48:39,409 --> 00:48:41,489
please correct me if I'm wrong on it is that

714
00:48:41,489 --> 00:48:44,289
there is a potential needs to look at assistance to

715
00:48:44,289 --> 00:48:47,489
keep that going. Because we've seen the reduce in calls

716
00:48:47,489 --> 00:48:51,152
that has to bylaw and RCMP officers. Dealing with those

717
00:48:51,152 --> 00:48:54,352
situations. It's just a matter of where. And that would

718
00:48:54,352 --> 00:48:56,312
be up to the team to say, which is, how

719
00:48:56,312 --> 00:48:58,032
do we do that so that it's as successful as

720
00:48:58,032 --> 00:49:03,434
possible. Well, because you appointed to me. I've been on

721
00:49:03,434 --> 00:49:05,914
the downtown Columbia board now for over three years, and

722
00:49:05,914 --> 00:49:09,567
I recognize. How much of their budget is going not

723
00:49:09,567 --> 00:49:12,327
towards promotion of the downtown, but cleaning up and promoting.

724
00:49:12,327 --> 00:49:17,076
And so. Certainly supportive of this help. So I wasn't

725
00:49:17,076 --> 00:49:19,076
trying to make a question. No. And I was just

726
00:49:19,076 --> 00:49:21,156
going for clarification. On exactly what it was. So I

727
00:49:21,156 --> 00:49:24,779
truly appreciate. Your acknowledgment of the work that DK does,

728
00:49:24,779 --> 00:49:27,259
their service is doing. What we couldn't do alone for

729
00:49:27,259 --> 00:49:28,819
sure, and it's saving us a lot of money, and

730
00:49:28,819 --> 00:49:30,779
it's costing them a lot of money, so I'm all

731
00:49:30,779 --> 00:49:34,746
about that. One other question. Is the outdoor sheltering site

732
00:49:34,746 --> 00:49:38,126
what councilor Cannon was saying? We've been hearing from the

733
00:49:38,126 --> 00:49:42,448
city manager over the past year or two that. We're

734
00:49:42,448 --> 00:49:44,448
spending a lot of money at that site, and it's

735
00:49:44,448 --> 00:49:47,328
really not part of our municipal responsibilities, but we're doing

736
00:49:47,328 --> 00:49:50,742
our best to keep the situation in control. In our

737
00:49:50,742 --> 00:49:52,902
city. I don't think it would be up to somebody

738
00:49:52,902 --> 00:49:55,142
like the RCMP. Commander to say is that money well

739
00:49:55,142 --> 00:49:56,902
spent has nothing to do with law enforcement. It has

740
00:49:56,902 --> 00:49:59,782
to. Do with the city trying to manage a problem

741
00:49:59,782 --> 00:50:02,662
that's in our lapse. But at the other. Same time

742
00:50:02,662 --> 00:50:05,502
we're trying to make changes to that camp and bring

743
00:50:05,502 --> 00:50:08,062
down the cost. So I was a little surprised to

744
00:50:08,062 --> 00:50:11,103
see it going up instead of down, because. We're trying

745
00:50:11,103 --> 00:50:12,743
to reduce how much we're spending on it, so I'm

746
00:50:12,743 --> 00:50:14,343
just curious what the plan is for that in the

747
00:50:14,343 --> 00:50:21,786
future. Stupid. Yeah. The costs increase this year. With. The

748
00:50:21,786 --> 00:50:24,866
new management strategy that we have there. As I mentioned

749
00:50:24,866 --> 00:50:29,066
in my comments, we're seeing good successes all around, both

750
00:50:29,066 --> 00:50:32,826
for individuals who are sheltering there as well as criminality

751
00:50:32,826 --> 00:50:37,335
in the surrounding community and safety of staff. So the

752
00:50:37,335 --> 00:50:41,253
plan is working. The costs are something, and the reason

753
00:50:41,253 --> 00:50:44,453
why it's in as a two year request is because

754
00:50:44,453 --> 00:50:49,181
we believe there's options to look at grant funding. There's

755
00:50:49,181 --> 00:50:51,741
options to look at different ways to manage that while

756
00:50:51,741 --> 00:50:56,578
still accomplishing the objectives. That we've set out. This year.

757
00:50:57,817 --> 00:51:01,817
Thank you, council. Dehart, please. I just have a comment.

758
00:51:01,817 --> 00:51:06,329
A comment? Okay. So this is an accepted motion. Direct

759
00:51:06,329 --> 00:51:08,369
the board, please do your comment, and then we'll just

760
00:51:08,369 --> 00:51:11,449
move from there. Thank you, worship. I just wanted to

761
00:51:11,449 --> 00:51:14,329
make a comment on the continuous improvements. Because sometimes we

762
00:51:14,329 --> 00:51:17,089
look at budgets and we're always looking at the numbers

763
00:51:17,089 --> 00:51:19,809
and we don't read between the lines. Well, I'm sure

764
00:51:19,809 --> 00:51:22,369
some of us do, but, I mean. Sometimes there's just

765
00:51:22,369 --> 00:51:25,582
so much, but. I wanted to make a comment on

766
00:51:25,582 --> 00:51:29,862
the establishment of an officer training academy, and I really

767
00:51:29,862 --> 00:51:32,702
thought about that. And I think it's really important because

768
00:51:32,702 --> 00:51:36,422
I think this is really critical to that department because

769
00:51:36,422 --> 00:51:39,102
it's going to give the officers the tools to tackle

770
00:51:39,102 --> 00:51:41,742
what actually council has asked for them to do in

771
00:51:41,742 --> 00:51:45,157
our priorities of crime and safety. So I just. Wanted

772
00:51:45,157 --> 00:51:46,757
to mention that it was just one little. Couple of

773
00:51:46,757 --> 00:51:49,517
little lines in the budget, but I think it's so

774
00:51:49,517 --> 00:51:51,877
important. And when we see our officers out there and

775
00:51:51,877 --> 00:51:56,357
how they interact. With businesses, how they interact with the

776
00:51:56,357 --> 00:51:58,917
homeless and how they interact with other people. I thought

777
00:51:58,917 --> 00:52:01,917
this was one of the most crucial things and fully,

778
00:52:01,917 --> 00:52:05,575
fully support that. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank

779
00:52:05,575 --> 00:52:11,043
you. Second question. Councilor Hutch thank you, Mr. Matt. I

780
00:52:11,043 --> 00:52:16,676
just wanted to clarify that on the previous motion. Presented

781
00:52:16,676 --> 00:52:20,973
by Mr. Cannon. I agree with what he would say.

782
00:52:23,049 --> 00:52:26,914
I just built up. To where it was. Counselor. The

783
00:52:26,914 --> 00:52:29,074
motion failed. And it was. I was going to add

784
00:52:29,074 --> 00:52:31,194
that. Mr. Merritt, I'm. Making a point that I think

785
00:52:31,194 --> 00:52:36,067
are valid in the fact that. I didn't disagree with

786
00:52:36,067 --> 00:52:38,547
what he was trying to accomplish. I think he's right.

787
00:52:38,547 --> 00:52:40,547
I just didn't like the process at which he was

788
00:52:40,547 --> 00:52:42,987
trying to accomplish it and that's why I made the

789
00:52:42,987 --> 00:52:45,987
boat. I did. But I wasn't supporting what he was.

790
00:52:45,987 --> 00:52:48,827
Saying it was just trying to get the RSMP to

791
00:52:48,827 --> 00:52:50,987
make comment. At that time, I didn't think it was

792
00:52:50,987 --> 00:52:54,315
a right fault. Thank you. I was just saying that

793
00:52:54,315 --> 00:52:56,115
it ended be it. It wasn't something up for discussion

794
00:52:56,115 --> 00:53:03,031
that. Was all counselors. Melanie. Anything else? To add. Note,

795
00:53:03,031 --> 00:53:07,249
you, worship. We will then. Council is ready. We will

796
00:53:07,249 --> 00:53:15,697
move. Into. There we go.

797
00:53:17,235 --> 00:53:19,835
If I may, before you move into that particular area.

798
00:53:21,150 --> 00:53:25,230
The bylaw service area has been extremely important to council.

799
00:53:26,752 --> 00:53:30,636
And. The way that I believe. Initially the bylaw service

800
00:53:30,636 --> 00:53:34,316
was structured when this council came in and the way

801
00:53:34,316 --> 00:53:39,921
that bylaw services is structured now. Are two completely different

802
00:53:39,921 --> 00:53:45,375
stories. And that's been at the hand of individuals like

803
00:53:45,375 --> 00:53:48,455
Kevin Mead, that's been at the hands of individuals like

804
00:53:48,455 --> 00:53:51,415
Darren Cole and now also Tory white that is in

805
00:53:51,415 --> 00:53:57,747
there. And the efficiency with regards to the operation itself.

806
00:53:59,083 --> 00:54:02,865
We are extremely grateful for. It obviously is a cost

807
00:54:02,865 --> 00:54:07,157
that as a municipality. It's been put upon us to

808
00:54:07,157 --> 00:54:10,417
deal with a lot of those issues. That we wish

809
00:54:10,417 --> 00:54:14,097
that we didn't have to spend taxpayer dollars on, but

810
00:54:14,097 --> 00:54:15,977
we need to do what we can in order to

811
00:54:15,977 --> 00:54:20,459
try to make the community as safe as possible. So

812
00:54:20,459 --> 00:54:24,259
in addition to those individuals I mentioned, Nick Bonnet, Ken

813
00:54:24,259 --> 00:54:28,983
Hunter and Kevin Dugan. I just truly want to appreciate

814
00:54:28,983 --> 00:54:32,263
the work that they have done to get this organization

815
00:54:32,263 --> 00:54:35,943
to the point of being as efficient as it can

816
00:54:35,943 --> 00:54:38,503
for the needs of our community. And hopefully there is

817
00:54:38,503 --> 00:54:41,303
a day that we don't need this cost at Os

818
00:54:41,303 --> 00:54:43,583
four and we don't. Need these other costs within our

819
00:54:43,583 --> 00:54:46,703
community, and I'd be very grateful when they kind of.

820
00:54:46,703 --> 00:54:50,608
Trim down substantially. But until that time, we recognize that

821
00:54:50,608 --> 00:54:52,728
we need our part to do our part in order

822
00:54:52,728 --> 00:54:54,768
to try to keep our community as safe as possible.

823
00:54:54,768 --> 00:54:57,168
So just very grateful for the work that they do

824
00:54:57,168 --> 00:54:59,288
and the work that you do in helping them along.

825
00:54:59,288 --> 00:55:03,330
Thank you, your worship. So we'll next move into police

826
00:55:03,330 --> 00:55:08,810
services in RCMP. This section starts on page 10. Five

827
00:55:08,810 --> 00:55:16,400
of your budget volume. All right. Thank you. Mel the

828
00:55:16,400 --> 00:55:20,440
key objective of this service, of course, is to preserve

829
00:55:20,440 --> 00:55:25,417
and enhance public safety in our community. And also to

830
00:55:25,417 --> 00:55:29,657
support longer term strategies to address the demands on police,

831
00:55:29,657 --> 00:55:34,292
such as addressing upstream determinants of crime. Or efforts to

832
00:55:34,292 --> 00:55:39,551
improve efficiency through innovations. The RCMP is our contracted policing

833
00:55:39,551 --> 00:55:44,631
agency are supported by over 100 City of Kelowna employees

834
00:55:44,631 --> 00:55:51,292
who deliver 24/7 operational support. Such as preparing documentation for

835
00:55:51,292 --> 00:55:56,892
criminal court proceedings, completing administrative duties for RCMP members so

836
00:55:56,892 --> 00:56:00,172
that they can spend more time working directly with the

837
00:56:00,172 --> 00:56:06,052
community, conducting investigations for lower level RCMP calls, ensuring good

838
00:56:06,052 --> 00:56:10,135
communication with our citizens and running some. Really important community

839
00:56:10,135 --> 00:56:15,135
safety initiatives such as event planning, volunteer management, and the

840
00:56:15,135 --> 00:56:22,745
reintroduction. Of our auxiliary program. Some key accomplishments throughout the

841
00:56:22,745 --> 00:56:31,766
year include. The significant improvements in RCMP and police services.

842
00:56:34,864 --> 00:56:39,464
Stopping levels. The vacancy rate has dropped substantially this year

843
00:56:39,464 --> 00:56:43,807
and is providing a good benefit to the community. The

844
00:56:43,807 --> 00:56:47,167
reintroduction, of course, of our speed watch program as well

845
00:56:47,167 --> 00:56:50,847
as the auxiliaries. Who are now hired, and they're busy

846
00:56:50,847 --> 00:56:54,041
completing their training this fall. We also had a major.

847
00:56:55,643 --> 00:57:00,832
Body camera rollout for our local RCMP officers. And we

848
00:57:00,832 --> 00:57:06,832
added the RCMP, added a dedicated community liaison for Rutland,

849
00:57:06,832 --> 00:57:10,232
and increased the number of school resource officers from two

850
00:57:10,232 --> 00:57:13,472
to four. And finally, while our city has been an

851
00:57:13,472 --> 00:57:16,632
advocate for change, on the impact of chronic offenders. The

852
00:57:16,632 --> 00:57:21,038
RCMP have really prioritized enforcement with. These individuals in our

853
00:57:21,038 --> 00:57:25,304
community. Looking forward to next year. Our primary work will

854
00:57:25,304 --> 00:57:30,224
be to implement the RCMP modernization recommendations, which began last

855
00:57:30,224 --> 00:57:35,264
year with our detachment formerly being reorganized from a regional

856
00:57:35,264 --> 00:57:39,704
mandate to focus solely on Kelowna. Next steps are to

857
00:57:39,704 --> 00:57:44,545
transfer the administrative services to each of. Our regional partners,

858
00:57:44,545 --> 00:57:47,705
and as we undertake that work, our police services leadership

859
00:57:47,705 --> 00:57:52,745
team will initiate an organizational effectiveness review to help determine

860
00:57:52,745 --> 00:57:57,235
that our current complement of municipal employees. And the structure

861
00:57:57,235 --> 00:58:00,795
aligns with operational needs of the RCMP that they support.

862
00:58:02,335 --> 00:58:06,868
Finally. A good successor. Detachment was able to complete a

863
00:58:06,868 --> 00:58:11,028
CCTV upgrade project for cameras outside of the building with

864
00:58:11,028 --> 00:58:16,108
existing funding last year, and we'll be moving on to

865
00:58:16,108 --> 00:58:22,841
upgrading CCTV cameras. Within the detachment in 2026. On the

866
00:58:22,841 --> 00:58:26,281
slide are some key performance indicators that I will touch

867
00:58:26,281 --> 00:58:30,241
on. Performance measure number one, citizen. Satisfaction with police services.

868
00:58:32,349 --> 00:58:35,669
The 2024 data did show an improvement from 2022, from

869
00:58:35,669 --> 00:58:39,949
74% to 80% favorable. We expect to maintain that result

870
00:58:39,949 --> 00:58:43,637
going into next year and have established. A target of

871
00:58:43,637 --> 00:58:49,477
83% favorable, which represents the Ipsos provincial average from 2024.

872
00:58:50,825 --> 00:58:54,705
Performance measure number two is response time. Please response to

873
00:58:54,705 --> 00:58:58,924
calls for service in minutes. The targets for party one,

874
00:58:58,924 --> 00:59:02,684
two and three calls are eight minutes, ten minutes and

875
00:59:02,684 --> 00:59:08,604
20 minutes, respectively. These targets were selected after reviewing historical

876
00:59:08,604 --> 00:59:12,524
data, the city of Kelowna and cross referencing with provincial

877
00:59:12,524 --> 00:59:17,324
benchmarks. The 2026 forecast takes into account a number of

878
00:59:17,324 --> 00:59:20,801
fact. Factors, including the growth of the RCMP of specialized

879
00:59:20,801 --> 00:59:24,841
units beyond just the front line and also the implications

880
00:59:24,841 --> 00:59:28,681
of FIFA coming up in 2026, which could limit our

881
00:59:28,681 --> 00:59:34,290
ability to bring in additional officers for summer operations. Performance

882
00:59:34,290 --> 00:59:39,744
measure number three is citizen callbacks for. Police police service

883
00:59:39,744 --> 00:59:44,504
calls, which is a measure of responsiveness and is one

884
00:59:44,504 --> 00:59:49,024
of council's four top priorities for the RCMP that we

885
00:59:49,024 --> 00:59:53,784
established earlier. Since 2023, when the KPI was adopted. The

886
00:59:53,784 --> 00:59:59,516
RCMP have emphasized this area and improved from 43%. In

887
00:59:59,516 --> 01:00:03,836
2022% to 77% in 2025. And we've set a target

888
01:00:03,836 --> 01:00:08,231
of 90% for that measure. On this slide, we have

889
01:00:08,231 --> 01:00:13,551
traffic safety, police enforcement interactions, which does show a drop

890
01:00:13,551 --> 01:00:19,833
in 2025. Due to operational demands, including some investigations on

891
01:00:19,833 --> 01:00:25,833
some very complex collisions. However, traffic services I understand is

892
01:00:25,833 --> 01:00:31,153
realigned recently to better meet enforcement objectives going forward and

893
01:00:31,153 --> 01:00:35,193
the RCMP and the city have also established a multi

894
01:00:35,193 --> 01:00:39,777
agency traffic safety. Committee. The last one. I'll just quickly

895
01:00:39,777 --> 01:00:43,457
touch on performance. Measure number five is caseload per. Officer.

896
01:00:45,061 --> 01:00:48,034
Which is like, by law. A very good indicator of

897
01:00:48,034 --> 01:00:51,354
the demand for police services and the workload on our

898
01:00:51,354 --> 01:00:55,394
officers in the past few years, Kelowna's caseload per officer

899
01:00:55,394 --> 01:01:00,354
typically has been about 33% higher than the provincial average

900
01:01:00,354 --> 01:01:06,554
for communities with more than 15,000 residents. However, significant council

901
01:01:06,554 --> 01:01:10,806
invest. Investments since the past few years means that case

902
01:01:10,806 --> 01:01:15,566
load officer has improved quite dramatically, and we're forecasting it

903
01:01:15,566 --> 01:01:18,606
to be down to 71 files per officer, which will

904
01:01:18,606 --> 01:01:22,525
be the best in eight years. We are continuing with

905
01:01:22,525 --> 01:01:27,598
Mr. Cal to do some analysis on this measure. With

906
01:01:27,598 --> 01:01:30,678
the eye to come back to council early in 2026

907
01:01:30,678 --> 01:01:34,798
to really establish what our target will be for caseload.

908
01:01:34,798 --> 01:01:38,668
With that, I'll turn it over to Ms. Anthoons. Thank

909
01:01:38,668 --> 01:01:43,748
you. So police services in RCMP budget makes up $83.2

910
01:01:43,748 --> 01:01:47,868
million of the city's overall $1 billion budget and is

911
01:01:47,868 --> 01:01:53,275
operated under several different cost centers. The recommended funding strategy

912
01:01:53,275 --> 01:01:57,875
is the predominantly property taxes, with the inclusion of $6

913
01:01:57,875 --> 01:02:01,835
million of other revenue, $6 million of transfers from reserves,

914
01:02:01,835 --> 01:02:08,408
as well as some fees and charges. The 2025 ending

915
01:02:08,408 --> 01:02:17,992
revised budget is. 75,935,000. After annualizing previously approved budget requests.

916
01:02:19,806 --> 01:02:26,437
The service area starting 2026 at 75,400,000. To maintain current

917
01:02:26,437 --> 01:02:36,276
service levels, an additional $7,259,000 is being requested. And enhancements

918
01:02:36,276 --> 01:02:43,673
of $500,000 $501,000 are requested. The service area has three

919
01:02:43,673 --> 01:02:48,953
budget requests starting on page 112 in the budget volume.

920
01:02:48,953 --> 01:02:53,233
The first one is for child and youth advocacy center

921
01:02:53,233 --> 01:03:02,049
enhancements of $58,000 ongoing, funded 11,500 from partnering municipalities. And

922
01:03:02,049 --> 01:03:08,049
46,300 from taxation. Next is the DNA analysis service fee

923
01:03:08,049 --> 01:03:13,668
of $33,000, ongoing, funded from taxation. And the third is

924
01:03:13,668 --> 01:03:19,810
police services in RCMP enhancements. This is for four additional

925
01:03:19,810 --> 01:03:25,290
regular members, one police services, financial analysts. This request is

926
01:03:25,290 --> 01:03:34,530
a total of 349,300 in 2026, increasing to 1,144,250 ongoing.

927
01:03:35,492 --> 01:03:39,899
The recommended funding is for three regular members. And the

928
01:03:39,899 --> 01:03:42,939
financial analyst to be funded from the public safety levy

929
01:03:42,939 --> 01:03:47,614
and the one additional. Regular member to be posted at

930
01:03:47,614 --> 01:03:52,614
the airport to be funded 80% airport and 20% taxation.

931
01:03:52,614 --> 01:03:58,374
Which is $12,700 in 2026, increasing to 50,700 of taxation

932
01:03:58,374 --> 01:04:03,669
ongoing. There are no preliminary. Sorry. There is no priority

933
01:04:03,669 --> 01:04:09,413
one capital request for this service area. Would council like

934
01:04:09,413 --> 01:04:12,613
to discuss any of the priority one budget request? Thank

935
01:04:12,613 --> 01:04:15,613
you. Yes, there are a few questions. Councilor Singh, please.

936
01:04:15,613 --> 01:04:18,693
Thank you, worship. Stu, I just want to speak to

937
01:04:18,693 --> 01:04:22,416
the one. On the child and you advocacy center. It

938
01:04:22,416 --> 01:04:25,296
is a well funded center in the sense there's a

939
01:04:25,296 --> 01:04:29,376
lot of donation money that comes there. 58,000 in the

940
01:04:29,376 --> 01:04:33,612
grand scheme of life isn't a huge ask. What is

941
01:04:33,612 --> 01:04:38,012
it? 46,300. I wonder if you could speak to what?

942
01:04:38,012 --> 01:04:43,740
The money. Is required for is there demand for. Police

943
01:04:43,740 --> 01:04:47,140
services at the center. Has that gone up dramatically or.

944
01:04:48,430 --> 01:04:51,409
Is it? More complaints coming in. What is the situation?

945
01:04:52,862 --> 01:04:57,662
Your workshop. This budget request is to help support. The

946
01:04:57,662 --> 01:05:01,862
Child and family advocate program within the CYAC. This is

947
01:05:01,862 --> 01:05:04,942
a group of employees who provide a wide variety of

948
01:05:04,942 --> 01:05:09,408
service, and they also provide. Support and service to. Our,

949
01:05:09,408 --> 01:05:12,088
for our CNP members that are working there. All right.

950
01:05:12,088 --> 01:05:16,781
Also, then can I just move on. To. I totally

951
01:05:16,781 --> 01:05:19,181
appreciate the work they do. I just wanted to question

952
01:05:19,181 --> 01:05:23,261
it, get an answer as to why, if I could

953
01:05:23,261 --> 01:05:28,200
go to page 113. Am I wrong? Isn't the airport

954
01:05:28,200 --> 01:05:35,925
the rcmp? Person who member who's at the airport. Isn't

955
01:05:35,925 --> 01:05:39,445
it someone who's either a retired member or an auxiliary?

956
01:05:39,445 --> 01:05:42,525
Or is it? A paid full time member who's stationed

957
01:05:42,525 --> 01:05:47,745
at the airport? No. It's a regular member. All right.

958
01:05:47,745 --> 01:05:51,305
Okay. Thank you. Thank you. Councilor stock, please. Thank you.

959
01:05:51,305 --> 01:05:54,985
Thank you, Stewart. So just regarding our new additional members

960
01:05:54,985 --> 01:05:58,614
to the RCMP, we're looking for four this year. To

961
01:05:58,614 --> 01:06:00,734
looking at the budget of 68 four. I'm assuming those

962
01:06:00,734 --> 01:06:03,734
would be anticipated to start. Later in the year. Is

963
01:06:03,734 --> 01:06:06,654
that correct? Is there a target date for that? Yes,

964
01:06:06,654 --> 01:06:10,534
your worship, date. RCMP officers. We typically plan to hit

965
01:06:10,534 --> 01:06:13,534
the budget in Q four just because it does take

966
01:06:13,534 --> 01:06:15,894
some time to work its way through the process. So

967
01:06:15,894 --> 01:06:18,895
does this give you the placeholder to. Go to the

968
01:06:18,895 --> 01:06:25,305
rcmp depot. To select these candidates. Is there availability? And

969
01:06:25,305 --> 01:06:27,505
what's the likelihood of the four being added to the

970
01:06:27,505 --> 01:06:32,311
staff next? Year physically. Your worship, my understanding is deposed

971
01:06:32,311 --> 01:06:35,951
doing much better than years gone by. So we are

972
01:06:35,951 --> 01:06:39,431
confident they'd be added by Q four as a plan.

973
01:06:39,431 --> 01:06:42,332
Maybe a bit earlier, a bit later. But we're confident

974
01:06:42,332 --> 01:06:46,492
they'll be added. Okay, good. And second, this is just

975
01:06:46,492 --> 01:06:50,893
kind of a personal curiosity. We have 100 city employees

976
01:06:50,893 --> 01:06:54,883
that support our officers in the field. When we look

977
01:06:54,883 --> 01:06:58,043
at the way they're captured in our budget are those

978
01:06:58,043 --> 01:07:01,323
100 city of Kelowna employees. Like would they be on

979
01:07:01,323 --> 01:07:05,935
the city of colonial payroll? Correct your. Just like all

980
01:07:05,935 --> 01:07:09,615
others is part of our compliment. Okay, but when we

981
01:07:09,615 --> 01:07:13,524
look at the funding of our RCMP division. Are they

982
01:07:13,524 --> 01:07:18,444
included in that budget category? Depending on what number. You're

983
01:07:18,444 --> 01:07:21,444
looking at, whereby no Mr. Zas and Ms. Antoons have

984
01:07:21,444 --> 01:07:25,332
talked about the RCMP contract. That would just be what

985
01:07:25,332 --> 01:07:28,092
we paid to the RCMP for our contracted policing service.

986
01:07:29,429 --> 01:07:33,909
There's also budget line items for all of the rest

987
01:07:33,909 --> 01:07:38,085
of the support services. The facility, support employees, as we're

988
01:07:38,085 --> 01:07:42,405
obligated to do under the municipal police unit. Agreement. Okay,

989
01:07:42,405 --> 01:07:44,525
so I interpret that all of this would be considered

990
01:07:44,525 --> 01:07:49,961
part of our RCMP. Policing services. We phrase it as

991
01:07:49,961 --> 01:07:52,761
that. And the RCMP contract is one of those line

992
01:07:52,761 --> 01:07:56,245
items in that correct. Okay. Thank you. And would it

993
01:07:56,245 --> 01:07:58,445
be fair just to answer that councilor's question that it's.

994
01:07:58,445 --> 01:08:03,513
Approximately about 20%. To your worship. Would it be fair

995
01:08:03,513 --> 01:08:06,913
that when to answer the council's question, that it's. Approximately

996
01:08:06,913 --> 01:08:10,273
about 20% of our overall line item. Somewhere in that,

997
01:08:10,273 --> 01:08:14,463
Mr. Sass. More. 25. That's more than that, Mr. Sass.

998
01:08:16,268 --> 01:08:17,668
Thank you, worship. Have to look that one up. The

999
01:08:17,668 --> 01:08:20,308
team's just checking on that, right? Now. Okay, thank you.

1000
01:08:20,308 --> 01:08:27,670
Next. Councilor. Councilor Lovegrove. Yeah. Just clarification. So the funding.

1001
01:08:29,156 --> 01:08:33,306
For. The member that will be at the airport. That's

1002
01:08:33,306 --> 01:08:38,819
coming from the airport. I'm sorry, can you repeat? Sorry

1003
01:08:38,819 --> 01:08:41,539
for jumping in there. The member that's going to be.

1004
01:08:43,650 --> 01:08:46,170
Stationed more often at the airport. Where was the funding

1005
01:08:46,170 --> 01:08:47,730
for that member going to come from? Would that be

1006
01:08:47,730 --> 01:08:51,379
the airport improvement fee? You, worship. The airport members are

1007
01:08:51,379 --> 01:08:55,419
shared 80% out of airport funding and 20% out of

1008
01:08:55,419 --> 01:08:59,712
taxation. And yes. They will be solely stationed at the

1009
01:08:59,712 --> 01:09:03,955
airport, serving the airport area and. How many members are

1010
01:09:03,955 --> 01:09:08,474
we talking about total? They currently have one, and they're

1011
01:09:08,474 --> 01:09:12,274
moving to two. Moving to two. Okay, thank you very.

1012
01:09:12,274 --> 01:09:16,575
Much. I guess just a general comment on this. Just

1013
01:09:16,575 --> 01:09:19,175
reading this look like a maintain, not an enhancement. I

1014
01:09:19,175 --> 01:09:22,495
know we've been having fuzzy. Discussions about what's what, so

1015
01:09:22,495 --> 01:09:24,415
just leave it at that. I was reading this thing,

1016
01:09:24,415 --> 01:09:28,831
this. Looks like just managing growth. Thank you, councilor. Mr.

1017
01:09:28,831 --> 01:09:31,471
Sass, now that you've done that research, just answer that

1018
01:09:31,471 --> 01:09:34,911
question, please. Thank you. Your worship. Yes, 20% is approximately

1019
01:09:34,911 --> 01:09:36,871
the right number, and I just want to make a

1020
01:09:36,871 --> 01:09:40,688
clarification. Around the funding for this. I don't believe the

1021
01:09:40,688 --> 01:09:44,488
AIF this would be considered eligible. Funding, but it is

1022
01:09:44,488 --> 01:09:46,448
funded through other revenue streams at the airport. I just

1023
01:09:46,448 --> 01:09:48,968
want to make that clear, because I don't believe that

1024
01:09:48,968 --> 01:09:52,488
that would be eligible under the AIF program. Thank you,

1025
01:09:52,488 --> 01:09:55,128
Mr. Sass, for that clarification. Councilor Cannon, please. Thank you,

1026
01:09:55,128 --> 01:10:00,041
worship. Just a. Supplemental to councilor. Singh's question on the

1027
01:10:00,041 --> 01:10:03,797
child's youth admission center. You worship myself or involved in

1028
01:10:03,797 --> 01:10:05,957
that, and it's a great service. So will that be?

1029
01:10:05,957 --> 01:10:09,437
Ongoing, then their baseline budget will be increased to 121,000.

1030
01:10:10,776 --> 01:10:16,034
You, worship. The request is for just under 58,000. And

1031
01:10:16,034 --> 01:10:19,684
yes, it'll be ongoing funding. And eleven five. So that's

1032
01:10:19,684 --> 01:10:24,943
revenue that be generated. From other municipalities or using the

1033
01:10:24,943 --> 01:10:32,127
services. Sorry, workshop. I'm not seeing where you're looking. For

1034
01:10:32,127 --> 01:10:39,365
other revenue. Oh, yes, your worship, exactly. That recoveries from

1035
01:10:39,365 --> 01:10:44,205
our partner municipalities. Fabulous and councilor stock, thanks for your

1036
01:10:44,205 --> 01:10:45,925
question on the RCP. That's where I was going. I

1037
01:10:45,925 --> 01:10:47,765
just know that's going to be a busy year for

1038
01:10:47,765 --> 01:10:51,036
them, as you mentioned, with FIFA. And going to host

1039
01:10:51,036 --> 01:10:54,676
a memorial cup and bc lions games and bc summer

1040
01:10:54,676 --> 01:10:57,920
games. Appreciate the work of a men and women in

1041
01:10:57,920 --> 01:11:02,620
uniform. Thank you. Thank you. You have a comment, please,

1042
01:11:02,620 --> 01:11:07,227
council Dehrt. We'll go to comments, and then we'll move

1043
01:11:07,227 --> 01:11:11,612
it forward. Please. Thank you. I just wanted to make

1044
01:11:11,612 --> 01:11:14,732
sure that the citizens of Kelowna know one of the

1045
01:11:14,732 --> 01:11:17,292
most. Significant changes. And I know, stew, you brought it

1046
01:11:17,292 --> 01:11:21,892
up. Was the change from a regional to our. Municipal

1047
01:11:21,892 --> 01:11:24,652
operations in the RCMP. I know I've been asked about

1048
01:11:24,652 --> 01:11:27,932
it, but I'm. Really not sure if the average everyday

1049
01:11:27,932 --> 01:11:31,596
public understands about it and how important. It is and

1050
01:11:31,596 --> 01:11:33,916
how much of a change it's going to make to

1051
01:11:33,916 --> 01:11:36,076
our city, so. I just wanted to bring that up.

1052
01:11:36,076 --> 01:11:39,811
Thank you. Stu, please, if you have comments on that.

1053
01:11:44,425 --> 01:11:46,785
No worship. That work has been going on for some

1054
01:11:46,785 --> 01:11:51,073
time. We're very excited. To be moving in that direction,

1055
01:11:51,073 --> 01:11:55,268
and I absolutely believe. It will have a great impact

1056
01:11:55,268 --> 01:12:00,995
on. Services. Our OIC who's here today, and his inspectors

1057
01:12:00,995 --> 01:12:03,995
will be solely focused on Kelowna. Issues. So I think

1058
01:12:03,995 --> 01:12:05,955
it's good, and it'll be good for the region. As

1059
01:12:05,955 --> 01:12:09,675
well, because our municipal partners will have their own OIC

1060
01:12:09,675 --> 01:12:12,795
and begin to staff up appropriately. In their area, so

1061
01:12:12,795 --> 01:12:16,355
I think it's a huge win for the region. Thank

1062
01:12:16,355 --> 01:12:18,852
you. Just a point of. Clarification there, and I was

1063
01:12:18,852 --> 01:12:21,132
speaking with city manager on it from a standpoint of

1064
01:12:21,132 --> 01:12:25,012
it is RCMP that are representing our community, not municipal

1065
01:12:25,012 --> 01:12:28,172
like they're representing Kelowna. With regards to RCF. Just don't

1066
01:12:28,172 --> 01:12:29,972
want to get kind of caught up in that wording

1067
01:12:29,972 --> 01:12:35,441
structure on differences in between it. Seeing nothing else. Council.

1068
01:12:37,173 --> 01:12:42,188
Please. This service area has one priority to request. This

1069
01:12:42,188 --> 01:12:47,518
is. For two regular. Rcmp members. We'd like council like

1070
01:12:47,518 --> 01:12:50,964
to discuss this priority to request. Seeing that. I'm looking

1071
01:12:50,964 --> 01:12:54,605
for council to look at moving this forward. I'll just

1072
01:12:54,605 --> 01:12:58,445
move ahead. No good. Thank you. We'll move into fire

1073
01:12:58,445 --> 01:13:02,165
safety now. Fire safety. We'll just hold for 1 second,

1074
01:13:02,165 --> 01:13:07,822
please. Obviously, superintendent. Chris Cable, who is now our new

1075
01:13:07,822 --> 01:13:12,302
superintendent alongside Darren Cole. We know that you have come

1076
01:13:12,302 --> 01:13:15,542
into our community and made substantial changes with regards to

1077
01:13:15,542 --> 01:13:20,327
the organizational structure of the operation. And working towards making

1078
01:13:20,327 --> 01:13:24,127
this community a much safer place. And for your work

1079
01:13:24,127 --> 01:13:27,207
and your team's. Work. We truly appreciate the efforts that

1080
01:13:27,207 --> 01:13:31,270
you're doing. What we recognize, we see more activity out

1081
01:13:31,270 --> 01:13:34,894
there, and that is because. Of the digging in that

1082
01:13:34,894 --> 01:13:37,934
you're doing to working on making this community safer, so

1083
01:13:37,934 --> 01:13:40,974
just. On behalf of myself and council superintendent and also

1084
01:13:40,974 --> 01:13:48,400
Mr. Cole, thank you for your work. One more. Please.

1085
01:13:49,737 --> 01:13:53,297
Okay. Thank you. We will now move into fire safety.

1086
01:13:53,297 --> 01:13:56,537
This is start on page 116 of your budget volume.

1087
01:13:58,177 --> 01:14:01,337
Thank you, Mel. The key objectives of the fire department

1088
01:14:01,337 --> 01:14:05,673
are to provide effective fire protection and public safety. For

1089
01:14:05,673 --> 01:14:08,793
all areas of the city. Services provided by the department

1090
01:14:08,793 --> 01:14:12,313
include fire suppression who respond to fires in the community,

1091
01:14:12,313 --> 01:14:15,633
along with urgent medical calls, mpas and other calls like

1092
01:14:15,633 --> 01:14:20,273
Hazmat and rescue incident. They also have the fire prevention

1093
01:14:20,273 --> 01:14:24,953
branch, which does their work through inspections and public education.

1094
01:14:24,953 --> 01:14:28,942
Fire m. Mitigation who are working with community partners on

1095
01:14:28,942 --> 01:14:34,342
preventing wildfires and engaged in some exciting and innovative technology.

1096
01:14:34,342 --> 01:14:39,401
And we also have emergency planning, which includes. Preparation, response

1097
01:14:39,401 --> 01:14:43,481
and recovery plans for a variety of emergencies that could

1098
01:14:43,481 --> 01:14:48,201
arise within the community. KFD also, as you're aware, manages

1099
01:14:48,201 --> 01:14:52,001
one of the largest dispatch centers in BC, serving 58

1100
01:14:52,001 --> 01:14:55,961
departments, as well as various other clients in the Okanagan

1101
01:14:55,961 --> 01:15:02,043
and in. The southern southeastern BC. Key accomplishments for fire

1102
01:15:02,043 --> 01:15:07,036
safety. Fire department include the update of the fire strategic

1103
01:15:07,036 --> 01:15:10,836
plan was an important document to get over the line.

1104
01:15:10,836 --> 01:15:14,276
Also finalizing the fire facilities. Master plan to lay out.

1105
01:15:15,787 --> 01:15:19,667
How we will grow in the future. When appropriate, completing

1106
01:15:19,667 --> 01:15:22,867
the design and beginning the construction of the new Glenmore

1107
01:15:22,867 --> 01:15:26,624
protective Services campus is. Very exciting for everybody at the

1108
01:15:26,624 --> 01:15:30,984
department. And we're also happy to report that six Kelowna

1109
01:15:30,984 --> 01:15:35,664
neighborhoods have now achieved their fire smart recognition. Fire smart

1110
01:15:35,664 --> 01:15:41,329
neighborhood recognition. In the coming year, KFD will begin implementation

1111
01:15:41,329 --> 01:15:47,058
of their updated strategic plan. The work towards improved data

1112
01:15:47,058 --> 01:15:52,218
tracking and reporting across all departments continue to strengthen innovation

1113
01:15:52,218 --> 01:15:57,538
and partnership with organizations working on wildfire detection and response

1114
01:15:57,538 --> 01:16:03,251
and expand the fire smart neighborhood program. With 26 additional

1115
01:16:03,251 --> 01:16:09,441
neighborhoods in the community. Looking at performance measures. Performance measure

1116
01:16:09,441 --> 01:16:12,481
number one is fire inspections, which are completed both by

1117
01:16:12,481 --> 01:16:16,601
the fire. Prevention Branch, dedicated employees as well as our

1118
01:16:16,601 --> 01:16:20,641
on duty firefighters. Between these groups, our target is to

1119
01:16:20,641 --> 01:16:26,574
complete 5200 inspections a year based on building ris. Risk

1120
01:16:26,574 --> 01:16:30,214
levels. Performance measure number two is our dispatch center call

1121
01:16:30,214 --> 01:16:34,054
response time, which is currently meeting our target of answering

1122
01:16:34,054 --> 01:16:40,174
with 90% within 10 seconds. Number three is effective response

1123
01:16:40,174 --> 01:16:44,094
time and effective response force, both of which are showing

1124
01:16:44,094 --> 01:16:47,374
some gains over the past few years based on council

1125
01:16:47,374 --> 01:16:53,573
investment and continuous improvement initiatives by the department. Effective response

1126
01:16:53,573 --> 01:16:58,333
time refers to how quickly the fire department first apparatus

1127
01:16:58,333 --> 01:17:03,293
arrives on scene. While effective response force measures our ability

1128
01:17:03,293 --> 01:17:06,813
to quickly assemble three engines in one commander, a total

1129
01:17:06,813 --> 01:17:11,950
of 13 staff to a structure fire. Currently, the target

1130
01:17:11,950 --> 01:17:15,390
for response time is to arrive within nine minutes, 90%

1131
01:17:15,390 --> 01:17:18,870
of the time for all types of emergencies and a

1132
01:17:18,870 --> 01:17:22,150
target for effective response. Force will be set through council

1133
01:17:22,150 --> 01:17:26,068
workshops in the coming year. Two other measures that we're

1134
01:17:26,068 --> 01:17:30,428
following are suppression calls per population where Clona is slightly

1135
01:17:30,428 --> 01:17:35,948
above the average compared to five comparable BC communities and

1136
01:17:35,948 --> 01:17:40,508
firefighters on duty per population, where we're below average, but

1137
01:17:40,508 --> 01:17:43,628
also have seen some improvements with the investments made by

1138
01:17:43,628 --> 01:17:48,273
council. To get that additional squad in our downtown hall.

1139
01:17:50,158 --> 01:17:53,320
Recently. And that concludes my comments. And over to Ms.

1140
01:17:53,320 --> 01:18:01,383
Ante. So fire safety. As a budget of $78.4 million

1141
01:18:01,383 --> 01:18:07,319
and is operated under five different cost centers. The funding

1142
01:18:07,319 --> 01:18:12,199
for the service area is predominantly property taxes and transfers

1143
01:18:12,199 --> 01:18:15,639
from reserves, but also includes some grant funding, fees and

1144
01:18:15,639 --> 01:18:24,896
charges and other revenues. The 2025 revised budget. Is

1145
01:18:24,896 --> 01:18:32,856
$42,324,000. After annulating previously approved budget request, we're starting 2026

1146
01:18:32,856 --> 01:18:42,473
at 36,530 6,560,000. To maintain current service levels, an additional

1147
01:18:42,473 --> 01:18:51,633
$37,000,475 is requested and enhancements of $4,335,000 are also requested.

1148
01:18:53,788 --> 01:18:59,990
This area. Has three operating requests starting on page 125,

1149
01:18:59,990 --> 01:19:04,750
and also one request for operating and maintenance impacts from

1150
01:19:04,750 --> 01:19:10,437
capital. The first request is fire safety enhancement. This includes

1151
01:19:10,437 --> 01:19:16,044
four firefighters and incidental cost. This request is in 2026,

1152
01:19:16,044 --> 01:19:21,484
$368,000 and will increase to a full annualized cost of

1153
01:19:21,484 --> 01:19:26,724
537,000 ongoing and it is recommended funded from the public

1154
01:19:26,724 --> 01:19:31,219
safety levy. Second request is for KFD fleet repair costs.

1155
01:19:31,219 --> 01:19:37,972
This is $180,000 ongoing, funded from taxation. And then the

1156
01:19:37,972 --> 01:19:44,732
KFD service support enhancement of 54,000 in 2026, increasing to

1157
01:19:44,732 --> 01:19:54,586
$107,000 ongoing, funded from taxation. The operating. And maintenance impacts

1158
01:19:54,586 --> 01:20:00,546
from the capital program is $415,000 in 2026, increasing to

1159
01:20:00,546 --> 01:20:08,891
492,000 in 2027. Ongoing funded from taxation. The capital program

1160
01:20:08,891 --> 01:20:13,960
for 2026 is in full alignment with. The ten year

1161
01:20:13,960 --> 01:20:17,800
council approved tenure capital plan. Is there any priority one

1162
01:20:17,800 --> 01:20:22,326
request that council would like? To discuss. We have questions.

1163
01:20:22,326 --> 01:20:32,054
Councilor Singh, please. Discuss. My question to Mr. Leatherdale is

1164
01:20:32,054 --> 01:20:37,159
you said in your presentation, we are below. The national

1165
01:20:37,159 --> 01:20:42,479
average for five others. In comparison to the population, I

1166
01:20:42,479 --> 01:20:48,439
do believe we have approximately 130 to 135 fighters full

1167
01:20:48,439 --> 01:20:54,850
time. Five fighters for a population of 165,000. That's sort

1168
01:20:54,850 --> 01:21:03,694
of way under. The national standard set. For community safety.

1169
01:21:04,943 --> 01:21:07,823
And I'm just wondering, the four firefighters we had agreed

1170
01:21:07,823 --> 01:21:12,443
to in the public safety levy. Some time ago. That

1171
01:21:12,443 --> 01:21:17,242
additional two firefighters. Wouldn't. That still put us under the.

1172
01:21:18,692 --> 01:21:22,871
National standard. So, if so, my question really is, why

1173
01:21:22,871 --> 01:21:25,631
is that priority too? Shouldn't that have been priority one.

1174
01:21:27,494 --> 01:21:32,796
You were. Maybe for clarification. The performance measure that we're

1175
01:21:32,796 --> 01:21:40,303
following is. Following. Comparable communities. Within BC. There are NFPA

1176
01:21:40,303 --> 01:21:44,303
standards out there which are essentially an agreement of fire

1177
01:21:44,303 --> 01:21:48,663
personnel. About ideas around North America where a variety of

1178
01:21:48,663 --> 01:21:53,931
elements should. Be. We are under the average for the

1179
01:21:53,931 --> 01:21:59,592
five comparable communities in BC. I will mention we do

1180
01:21:59,592 --> 01:22:03,112
have targets to increase that over the span of a

1181
01:22:03,112 --> 01:22:08,927
few years. All communities are quite different as well. You

1182
01:22:08,927 --> 01:22:12,407
wish, but I'd see if we could start that item.

1183
01:22:13,638 --> 01:22:18,324
For now. And open it for discussion towards the end,

1184
01:22:18,324 --> 01:22:23,745
because in the summertime we are like a tinderbox. And

1185
01:22:23,745 --> 01:22:27,786
I think there's a method to my madness. But I

1186
01:22:27,786 --> 01:22:30,226
think at the end of the day, it's worthy of

1187
01:22:30,226 --> 01:22:33,786
a discussion if we could start that and revisit it.

1188
01:22:33,786 --> 01:22:36,666
It is starred. Thank you, your worship. We will need.

1189
01:22:36,666 --> 01:22:40,645
A council resolution to do that. So if you want

1190
01:22:40,645 --> 01:22:43,045
to accept councilor Singh as moving that we will need

1191
01:22:43,045 --> 01:22:49,660
a second. All in favor? So we're starring basically priority

1192
01:22:49,660 --> 01:22:53,300
two with regards to the number of recommended that is

1193
01:22:53,300 --> 01:22:59,269
in the budget with respect to the advancement. Of. The

1194
01:22:59,269 --> 01:23:02,718
fire department to a higher level. You worship. Just for

1195
01:23:02,718 --> 01:23:05,678
clarification, just to be very specific, the motion would be

1196
01:23:05,678 --> 01:23:09,078
that council. Star the firefighters two. So for two additional

1197
01:23:09,078 --> 01:23:12,918
firefighters, item on page 130 for further discussion later in

1198
01:23:12,918 --> 01:23:16,678
the meeting. Thank you. So this was moved by councilor

1199
01:23:16,678 --> 01:23:24,757
Singh, seconded by councilor Woolridge. All in favor? Opposed. So,

1200
01:23:24,757 --> 01:23:32,029
basically. It was. Stock. Weber and myself and everyone else

1201
01:23:32,029 --> 01:23:36,068
in favor. Just to start, this is starring. So it

1202
01:23:36,068 --> 01:23:43,329
is starred. Thank you for that, Councilor Singh. Councilor Wolverich,

1203
01:23:43,329 --> 01:23:46,329
please. Thanks for worship and happy. To start that for

1204
01:23:46,329 --> 01:23:47,889
further discussion at the end of the day, just to

1205
01:23:47,889 --> 01:23:52,757
keep the day moving. Stu, just for clarity, as part

1206
01:23:52,757 --> 01:23:56,075
of the 2025 strategic plan, From the fire department. Can

1207
01:23:56,075 --> 01:23:58,395
you remind me? There was a ten year capital and

1208
01:23:58,395 --> 01:24:06,275
staffing forecast. Associated with that plan. Originally. It would be

1209
01:24:06,275 --> 01:24:09,395
helpful to know, as we discussed, the priority too that's

1210
01:24:09,395 --> 01:24:12,998
been raised. How we're doing in terms of keeping up

1211
01:24:12,998 --> 01:24:15,598
over that ten year staffing plan. Do you know if

1212
01:24:15,598 --> 01:24:18,878
we'll have that? Yeah. Your workshop in the strategic plan.

1213
01:24:22,723 --> 01:24:26,705
It identified the need to establish a service level. To

1214
01:24:26,705 --> 01:24:31,353
come back to a council workshop and talk about. The

1215
01:24:31,353 --> 01:24:35,073
response times and the effective response force and the related

1216
01:24:35,073 --> 01:24:38,353
costs of changes to those service levels. So there is

1217
01:24:38,353 --> 01:24:41,833
not a ten year stopping plan in that it's subject

1218
01:24:41,833 --> 01:24:44,753
to the next. Review. Okay. And then was that part

1219
01:24:44,753 --> 01:24:49,313
of the 2026 workshop that you mentioned early on in?

1220
01:24:49,313 --> 01:24:52,530
Your preamble, correct? Yes. Okay, so the strat time was

1221
01:24:52,530 --> 01:24:57,250
completed, and the next piece of work, the strap plan

1222
01:24:57,250 --> 01:25:01,850
outlines. Many different factors of services by the fire department.

1223
01:25:01,850 --> 01:25:05,734
The next piece of work is to determine. Where that

1224
01:25:05,734 --> 01:25:08,374
service level will be at in response time, which will

1225
01:25:08,374 --> 01:25:11,334
feed the staffing plan. Okay. That'll be really helpful to

1226
01:25:11,334 --> 01:25:13,654
know as we debate that item. Thank you. Thank you,

1227
01:25:13,654 --> 01:25:16,814
councilor. Cannon, please. Thank you, worship. Thanks. Mr. Loved. Just

1228
01:25:16,814 --> 01:25:20,254
a question. Key performance measure number one, fire. And life

1229
01:25:20,254 --> 01:25:24,014
safety inspections. I know the fire safety act was changed.

1230
01:25:25,348 --> 01:25:29,480
A year and a half ago, August of 2004. And

1231
01:25:29,480 --> 01:25:34,124
there's some different ways. Of enforcing. The whole risk compliance,

1232
01:25:34,124 --> 01:25:37,204
but I'm just wondering. Your forecast, it's almost a 50%.

1233
01:25:37,204 --> 01:25:41,364
Increase for number inspections anticipated next year versus over this

1234
01:25:41,364 --> 01:25:46,869
year. It's been pretty level for the last year and

1235
01:25:46,869 --> 01:25:49,469
a half, but this is going up. 50%. Yes, your

1236
01:25:49,469 --> 01:25:56,648
worship. The number one driver behind the increase is we

1237
01:25:56,648 --> 01:26:01,374
did suffer from some staffing issues. Due to unexpected medical

1238
01:26:01,374 --> 01:26:04,721
absences this year. That's great. No, it's good to see

1239
01:26:04,721 --> 01:26:07,862
that. Thank you. Hope they're better. And they're all coming

1240
01:26:07,862 --> 01:26:11,782
back. That'll help the safety. Of our community. Thanks. Council

1241
01:26:11,782 --> 01:26:15,789
stack, please. Steve, when we're looking at the addition or

1242
01:26:15,789 --> 01:26:23,316
the new Glenmore. Fire hall and training center. We'll be

1243
01:26:23,316 --> 01:26:25,636
closing the existing one, and then those staff will move

1244
01:26:25,636 --> 01:26:28,316
to the new one. Is that correct? That's correct. And

1245
01:26:28,316 --> 01:26:30,476
in the new one, is there an expanded number of

1246
01:26:30,476 --> 01:26:35,135
staff anticipated for that. And does the current plan. Staff

1247
01:26:35,135 --> 01:26:39,729
up for those, if required. Your worship. It'll be a

1248
01:26:39,729 --> 01:26:42,929
lift and shift. It'll be the same number of staff.

1249
01:26:42,929 --> 01:26:47,569
However, the new Glenmore Protective Services campus is being built

1250
01:26:47,569 --> 01:26:50,489
on a much longer timeline and will have the ability

1251
01:26:50,489 --> 01:26:53,369
to expand at some point in the future, but initially.

1252
01:26:54,611 --> 01:26:57,211
It's the same staffing compliment. Okay, so under the current.

1253
01:26:59,461 --> 01:27:01,421
Request and not talking about the priority too. But under

1254
01:27:01,421 --> 01:27:04,421
the current plan, we will have the appropriate level of

1255
01:27:04,421 --> 01:27:07,181
staff built for that at the time of its opening

1256
01:27:07,181 --> 01:27:11,101
and for our overall department, correct? Thank you. Thank you.

1257
01:27:12,879 --> 01:27:17,119
Fire services has two priority two requests. The first one

1258
01:27:17,119 --> 01:27:20,399
of the two additional firefighters has been start for further

1259
01:27:20,399 --> 01:27:22,999
discussion later in the day. And there is one other

1260
01:27:22,999 --> 01:27:27,639
one for the KFD. Officer development training of $50,000 ongoing,

1261
01:27:27,639 --> 01:27:33,263
funded from taxation. Would council like to discuss the second

1262
01:27:33,263 --> 01:27:39,826
item? Seeing none. All right. We will thank Mr. Leatherdale.

1263
01:27:39,826 --> 01:27:46,084
And next, welcome the general manager. 1 second, please. Just

1264
01:27:46,084 --> 01:27:48,884
to Chief Seymour and Deputy Chief Watson, thank you for

1265
01:27:48,884 --> 01:27:50,164
being here and thank you for the work you do

1266
01:27:50,164 --> 01:27:54,364
within the community. Obviously, the controlled burns that you've initiated

1267
01:27:54,364 --> 01:27:58,292
throughout the community. And the work that you've done. Has

1268
01:27:58,292 --> 01:28:00,612
been extremely, extremely grateful. So thank you for both being

1269
01:28:00,612 --> 01:28:02,772
here, and thank you on behalf of all of us,

1270
01:28:02,772 --> 01:28:04,132
to all your team, for the work that you do

1271
01:28:04,132 --> 01:28:06,772
throughout the community, very much. Appreciate it. Council, we are

1272
01:28:06,772 --> 01:28:09,764
going to take a five minute break, please. Thank you.

1273
01:42:13,061 --> 01:42:21,448
Thank you. Just want to look at calling this meeting

1274
01:42:21,448 --> 01:42:26,202
back to order. Thank you. I'm just going to get

1275
01:42:26,202 --> 01:42:30,322
the city clerk to start it. Just waiting a little

1276
01:42:30,322 --> 01:42:32,802
extra minute there. Thanks, Melanie. Thank you very much. City

1277
01:42:32,802 --> 01:42:36,122
clerk, please. Thank your worship. We are. Now moving to

1278
01:42:36,122 --> 01:42:39,762
item seven on the agenda. And this is the wastewater.

1279
01:42:44,467 --> 01:42:49,055
Utility service area. Thank you. Thank you. So as the

1280
01:42:49,055 --> 01:42:52,575
city clerk just mentioned, we are moving into wastewater utility.

1281
01:42:52,575 --> 01:42:57,015
This is on page 131. Of your budget volume. And

1282
01:42:57,015 --> 01:43:00,415
we will welcome the general manager of infrastructure, Mr. Mac

1283
01:43:00,415 --> 01:43:04,415
Logan, to present. Welcome, Mr. Logan. Thank you, your worship.

1284
01:43:04,415 --> 01:43:08,055
It's my pleasure to walk council through the multiple services

1285
01:43:08,055 --> 01:43:13,652
that the. City of colonial provides in these essential services

1286
01:43:13,652 --> 01:43:16,572
that maintain the high quality of life that we enjoy.

1287
01:43:16,572 --> 01:43:19,892
And depend on in this wonderful city. I'm supported here

1288
01:43:19,892 --> 01:43:23,732
today by Kevin Van Bleet. Our manager of utility services,

1289
01:43:23,732 --> 01:43:29,228
along with his individual service area managers. The wastewater utility

1290
01:43:29,228 --> 01:43:35,668
had a number of key accomplishments in 2025. Council can

1291
01:43:35,668 --> 01:43:37,308
read. So I won't read all of these, but I'll

1292
01:43:37,308 --> 01:43:40,148
highlight what they mean to us with respect to service

1293
01:43:40,148 --> 01:43:44,457
provision and budget. We have completed a comprehensive condition assessment

1294
01:43:44,457 --> 01:43:48,457
of the wastewater treatment plant, which we will use to

1295
01:43:48,457 --> 01:43:52,057
build our renewal and upgrading plans on a goforward basis

1296
01:43:52,057 --> 01:43:55,377
to make sure that this critical facility continues to operate

1297
01:43:55,377 --> 01:43:59,617
efficiently and reliably for years to come. This year also

1298
01:43:59,617 --> 01:44:02,748
saw the completion of a three year program. To provide

1299
01:44:02,748 --> 01:44:06,188
a sewer connection to 600 existing homes in the Rutland

1300
01:44:06,188 --> 01:44:11,148
neighborhood, a project that helps owners with aging septic systems

1301
01:44:11,148 --> 01:44:13,828
not have to worry about replacing those systems, as well

1302
01:44:13,828 --> 01:44:19,879
as supporting the urban renewal within this neighborhood. In 2025,

1303
01:44:19,879 --> 01:44:22,919
we finished a project with the District of Lake country

1304
01:44:22,919 --> 01:44:26,319
to treat the affluent. Coming from their plant through the

1305
01:44:26,319 --> 01:44:30,559
city of Colonos system before its return to Lake Okanagan.

1306
01:44:30,559 --> 01:44:34,316
And finally, I'd like to highlight. The completion in 2025

1307
01:44:34,316 --> 01:44:38,316
of the water security plan, which encompasses all aspects of

1308
01:44:38,316 --> 01:44:41,636
our community's. Use of water and outlines our goals and

1309
01:44:41,636 --> 01:44:46,788
objectives to protect the system over the long term. Switching

1310
01:44:46,788 --> 01:44:50,548
to our continuous improvement and looking forward. The public service

1311
01:44:50,548 --> 01:44:53,108
can never rest on its accomplishments and we continue to

1312
01:44:53,108 --> 01:44:56,788
refine and improve the services we deliver. I mentioned the

1313
01:44:56,788 --> 01:45:00,628
wastewater treatment plant assessment we now have moved out. We've

1314
01:45:00,628 --> 01:45:03,468
now moved forward to modeling our future demands and working

1315
01:45:03,468 --> 01:45:08,368
out how we can meet. The growth and changing affluent

1316
01:45:08,368 --> 01:45:12,088
characteristics to ensure that we protect Lake Okinawgan when we

1317
01:45:12,088 --> 01:45:16,524
discharge our treated water into it. Our sanitary lift station

1318
01:45:16,524 --> 01:45:19,444
program continues with next year's highlight being the completion of

1319
01:45:19,444 --> 01:45:23,169
the water. Street lift station. This positions the city for

1320
01:45:23,169 --> 01:45:26,449
the growth in the north downtown area, including the redevelopment

1321
01:45:26,449 --> 01:45:29,785
of the Tolco site. You will see in our capital

1322
01:45:29,785 --> 01:45:32,505
budget that the RV Sandy dump request that council put

1323
01:45:32,505 --> 01:45:35,905
forward has been included in our capital budget plan as

1324
01:45:35,905 --> 01:45:40,364
well. We continue to renew aging sewers in residential and

1325
01:45:40,364 --> 01:45:43,844
commercial areas and in certain locations we are combining these

1326
01:45:43,844 --> 01:45:47,876
with street upgrades. A final highlight is the work that

1327
01:45:47,876 --> 01:45:51,476
the wastewater team is putting forward to reduce the inevitable

1328
01:45:51,476 --> 01:45:55,436
odors that our facilities unfortunately generate, especially as more and

1329
01:45:55,436 --> 01:46:01,093
more development pops up around them. Our wastewater performance metrics

1330
01:46:01,093 --> 01:46:06,586
assess a number of things. First, How much available. Capacity

1331
01:46:06,586 --> 01:46:09,066
does our plant have? That's performance metric one. That's what

1332
01:46:09,066 --> 01:46:13,346
it's telling us? Secondly, are we replacing enough of our

1333
01:46:13,346 --> 01:46:17,546
pipe network to maintain the reliability and minimize breaks? This

1334
01:46:17,546 --> 01:46:19,906
is an area that we have advised council that our

1335
01:46:19,906 --> 01:46:22,906
spending needs to be increased and our capital plan reflects

1336
01:46:22,906 --> 01:46:28,073
this. Third, we're providing the essential services. This essential services

1337
01:46:28,073 --> 01:46:32,389
at a cost that families can afford. You will see

1338
01:46:32,389 --> 01:46:34,669
in the lower left on performance metric three that our

1339
01:46:34,669 --> 01:46:37,509
costs have been increasing gradually. Over time. But when you

1340
01:46:37,509 --> 01:46:40,709
look at performance metric four, it's clear that we're providing

1341
01:46:40,709 --> 01:46:44,029
this service at the lowest cost of a city within

1342
01:46:44,029 --> 01:46:49,244
the Okanagan and amongst the lowest across the province. I

1343
01:46:49,244 --> 01:46:52,004
will now pass the presentation back to the financial planning

1344
01:46:52,004 --> 01:46:58,884
manager. Thank you. The wastewater utilities operating expenditure budget is

1345
01:46:58,884 --> 01:47:06,712
$65.9 million for 2026. The utility is operated under several

1346
01:47:06,712 --> 01:47:12,554
different cost centers. The funding strategy for this service area

1347
01:47:12,554 --> 01:47:16,754
is predominantly transfers from reserves and fees and charges the

1348
01:47:16,754 --> 01:47:20,914
majority of funding in the reserves actually is from future

1349
01:47:20,914 --> 01:47:24,194
year or previous years. Fees and charges there are also

1350
01:47:24,194 --> 01:47:31,894
some other revenues. The 2025 revised budget.

1351
01:47:34,861 --> 01:47:42,021
It was $63 million 115,000 after annualizing previously approved budget

1352
01:47:42,021 --> 01:47:47,595
requests, the utility is starting 2026 at 18 million. Dollars.

1353
01:47:48,912 --> 01:47:54,272
To maintain current service levels, an additional 44,600,000 is being

1354
01:47:54,272 --> 01:47:59,952
requested, and to enhance service levels. An additional 3,250,000 is

1355
01:47:59,952 --> 01:48:08,155
being requested. This utility has three operating requests starting on

1356
01:48:08,155 --> 01:48:17,615
page 140. The first request for network roadway Worksafe

1357
01:48:17,615 --> 01:48:23,897
requirements is $120,000 ongoing, funded from the utility. Second is

1358
01:48:23,897 --> 01:48:29,697
the sanitary and stormwater network integrity programs, at $150,000 funded

1359
01:48:29,697 --> 01:48:34,707
from utility. And the third being the wastewater collection operations.

1360
01:48:34,707 --> 01:48:40,267
Additional expenses due to growth at 132,000 in 2026, increasing

1361
01:48:40,267 --> 01:48:46,919
to 168,000 ongoing. The capital program in the wastewater utility

1362
01:48:46,919 --> 01:48:51,928
is in full alignment. With the council adopted ten year

1363
01:48:51,928 --> 01:48:56,684
capital plan. Does council have any priority one request? They

1364
01:48:56,684 --> 01:49:04,084
would like to discuss. Thank you. Seeing none. Then we

1365
01:49:04,084 --> 01:49:08,564
will move into stormwater and flood protection starting on page

1366
01:49:08,564 --> 01:49:18,382
146 of your budget volume. Councilor Cannon. Your light was

1367
01:49:18,382 --> 01:49:21,262
not on when I looked at it. You have a

1368
01:49:21,262 --> 01:49:23,422
question on? I wasn't. Sure she's going through each one,

1369
01:49:23,422 --> 01:49:27,662
but two quick ones on the hall road area. Contact

1370
01:49:27,662 --> 01:49:31,439
by some people that are wondering. Looking at sewer connection

1371
01:49:31,439 --> 01:49:36,319
areas. So that's just the connections that would be eligible

1372
01:49:36,319 --> 01:49:40,604
because of. The mission Creek landing expansion. It wouldn't be.

1373
01:49:40,991 --> 01:49:43,951
Additional homes and other parts of the road network in

1374
01:49:43,951 --> 01:49:47,296
that neighborhood, is that correct? Good morning, Kevin. Thank you

1375
01:49:47,296 --> 01:49:57,252
very much. Utility sewer connection areas. I believe it's the

1376
01:49:57,252 --> 01:50:01,997
sewer connection area is on page 144. Thank you. Yes,

1377
01:50:01,997 --> 01:50:06,137
the wastewater connection, the sewer connection area program. Has a

1378
01:50:06,137 --> 01:50:08,657
prioritized list. Hall road is on that list, but it

1379
01:50:08,657 --> 01:50:16,932
is. Down quite a ways. So. The focus this year

1380
01:50:16,932 --> 01:50:19,892
is primarily as it relates to Hall Road is getting

1381
01:50:19,892 --> 01:50:25,751
the sewer pipe that tied into. The seniors facility there

1382
01:50:25,751 --> 01:50:29,271
across Mission Creek. That's why I thought. Okay, thanks. And

1383
01:50:29,271 --> 01:50:33,031
as far as the recreation vehicle, the RB standing disposable

1384
01:50:33,031 --> 01:50:38,773
facility. Do you have a specific location in mind? Yes,

1385
01:50:38,773 --> 01:50:41,533
your worship. Thank you. Council did request that we look

1386
01:50:41,533 --> 01:50:45,133
at a sandy dump facility and ask for us to

1387
01:50:45,133 --> 01:50:48,413
put that in budget for consideration this year. Staff looked

1388
01:50:48,413 --> 01:50:52,373
at twelve locations that were owned and operated by the

1389
01:50:52,373 --> 01:50:55,955
city that we had control over. We also did hear

1390
01:50:55,955 --> 01:50:58,195
from a couple of private property owners that could be

1391
01:50:58,195 --> 01:51:02,934
interested in hosting one. I personally talked to two properties

1392
01:51:02,934 --> 01:51:05,614
and gave them some feedback so have not yet heard

1393
01:51:05,614 --> 01:51:10,820
back. If they are still interested. This budget would fund

1394
01:51:10,820 --> 01:51:13,900
a site on Crowley at the north side of our

1395
01:51:13,900 --> 01:51:17,776
branch Creek wastewater treatment. Plant. We also, the second best

1396
01:51:17,776 --> 01:51:20,216
site that we have would be on Joe Rich Road,

1397
01:51:20,216 --> 01:51:22,496
but the budget proposed here would not be able to

1398
01:51:22,496 --> 01:51:26,016
fund that. We chose sites that we already own the

1399
01:51:26,016 --> 01:51:29,016
land. Because if we have to purchase land for sandy

1400
01:51:29,016 --> 01:51:32,616
dump, there's no way it would be economical. Thanks, Ann.

1401
01:51:32,616 --> 01:51:35,176
I've been in contact with those two. Private individuals are

1402
01:51:35,176 --> 01:51:39,954
still interested. Thank you. Thank you. Seeing. No further questions.

1403
01:51:42,189 --> 01:51:45,109
Then we will now move into the stormwater and flood

1404
01:51:45,109 --> 01:51:54,559
protection. Service area on page 146. Thank your

1405
01:51:54,559 --> 01:51:57,479
worship. Now, like to highlight some of the key accomplishments

1406
01:51:57,479 --> 01:52:01,724
from stormwater and flood protection. Team in 2025. We have

1407
01:52:01,724 --> 01:52:05,844
completed a plan for the central area stormwater basin. This

1408
01:52:05,844 --> 01:52:09,604
plan enables the city to plan for our growth while

1409
01:52:09,604 --> 01:52:14,098
ensuring that the stormwater runoff from new impervious areas. Can

1410
01:52:14,098 --> 01:52:17,738
be safely managed to avoid flooding and excessive impacts to

1411
01:52:17,738 --> 01:52:21,738
the quality of our streams in lake the team has

1412
01:52:21,738 --> 01:52:25,778
also completed the assessment condition assessment of 103 storm ponds

1413
01:52:25,778 --> 01:52:29,735
without our system. So. I thought council might be surprised

1414
01:52:29,735 --> 01:52:31,615
to see that number. How many storm ponds we have.

1415
01:52:33,397 --> 01:52:36,677
These inventory and condition assessments provide an overall picture of

1416
01:52:36,677 --> 01:52:39,317
the state of our infrastructure, and we use this to

1417
01:52:39,317 --> 01:52:42,077
develop a dashboard for the system and inform our capital

1418
01:52:42,077 --> 01:52:46,757
renewal plans during 2025. Work was also undertaken on 15

1419
01:52:46,757 --> 01:52:50,677
stormwater projects, summer construction. But many are at the design

1420
01:52:50,677 --> 01:52:57,052
phase with construction plan for. 2026. Next year, the stormwater

1421
01:52:57,052 --> 01:52:59,612
team will be moving forward with the condition assessment and

1422
01:52:59,612 --> 01:53:03,052
inventory work to develop programs to efficiently invest in dams,

1423
01:53:03,052 --> 01:53:09,183
ponds, pipes, and culverts that best address. Our community's needs,

1424
01:53:09,183 --> 01:53:13,063
and we plan to reestablish the stormwater gauge program. Which

1425
01:53:13,063 --> 01:53:16,055
was shut down a number of years ago. And finally,

1426
01:53:16,055 --> 01:53:19,015
we will be studying the street sweeping program's impact on

1427
01:53:19,015 --> 01:53:22,935
stormwater quality to better understand how we can efficiently and

1428
01:53:22,935 --> 01:53:26,415
effectively protect lake coconagin by collecting the material before it

1429
01:53:26,415 --> 01:53:30,015
enters the storm sewer, and that's sand and the chlorides

1430
01:53:30,015 --> 01:53:35,575
that come. With our winter road maintenance. Looking at the

1431
01:53:35,575 --> 01:53:39,255
performance metrics in the stormwater area, the first performance measure

1432
01:53:39,255 --> 01:53:41,455
is the quality of the water in the creeks that

1433
01:53:41,455 --> 01:53:46,095
feed Lake Okanagan. We are forecasting this performance. Measure to

1434
01:53:46,095 --> 01:53:50,695
remain constant. Next is the measure of the wastewater performance.

1435
01:53:50,695 --> 01:53:54,055
That is the percentage of the existing system that we're

1436
01:53:54,055 --> 01:53:59,089
replacing on. An annual basis. Our target is 1.33%, which

1437
01:53:59,089 --> 01:54:02,569
represents an average lifespan of 75 years for the stormwater.

1438
01:54:02,569 --> 01:54:07,478
Asset the following capital plan. In today's budget improves on

1439
01:54:07,478 --> 01:54:10,278
recent years as we see the need to increase the

1440
01:54:10,278 --> 01:54:14,802
investment. In this asset renewal program. Performance measure three simply

1441
01:54:14,802 --> 01:54:17,362
reports on how well we are delivering on servicing all

1442
01:54:17,362 --> 01:54:21,752
of our catch basements. To avoid local area flooding and

1443
01:54:21,752 --> 01:54:24,152
to remove debris from these pipe before it reaches the

1444
01:54:24,152 --> 01:54:26,992
lakes. The final metric is how well are we doing

1445
01:54:26,992 --> 01:54:30,112
at servicing all of the non catch basement assets in

1446
01:54:30,112 --> 01:54:33,032
the network. You can see from both performance metric three

1447
01:54:33,032 --> 01:54:35,512
and four the recent arrival of a new VAC truck

1448
01:54:35,512 --> 01:54:38,832
is delivering improvements towards our service level targets, and we

1449
01:54:38,832 --> 01:54:42,200
have an additional unit. Coming online soon. I would now

1450
01:54:42,200 --> 01:54:45,320
like to hand the presentation back to the financial planning

1451
01:54:45,320 --> 01:54:51,725
manager. Thank you. The stormwater and flood protection service area

1452
01:54:51,725 --> 01:54:58,237
has. A service area expenditure budget of $14.9 million and

1453
01:54:58,237 --> 01:55:04,593
it is operated under four cost centers. Funding for. This

1454
01:55:04,593 --> 01:55:08,753
service area is predominantly from transfers from reserves and property

1455
01:55:08,753 --> 01:55:14,525
taxes, with additional funding from grants and other revenues. 2025

1456
01:55:14,525 --> 01:55:22,863
revised budget is 15,254,000. And after annualization of previously approved

1457
01:55:22,863 --> 01:55:26,103
budget requests, the service area is starting the year at

1458
01:55:26,103 --> 01:55:33,232
a budget of 2,967,000. To maintain current service levels. The

1459
01:55:33,232 --> 01:55:39,352
service areas requesting $6,046,000 and to enhance service levels. It

1460
01:55:39,352 --> 01:55:48,834
is requesting $5,931,000. The service area has one priority one

1461
01:55:48,834 --> 01:55:56,403
operating request found on page 154. For utility infrastructure planning.

1462
01:55:56,403 --> 01:56:04,043
This request is $87,000 in 2026, increasing to $170,000 ongoing.

1463
01:56:05,292 --> 01:56:11,349
And. Is funded. 25% from the water utility, the wastewater

1464
01:56:11,349 --> 01:56:17,029
utility, solid waste and stormwater. With stormwater being the taxation

1465
01:56:17,029 --> 01:56:22,264
portion. The capital program for this service area is in

1466
01:56:22,264 --> 01:56:26,504
complete alignment with the council adopted ten year capital plan.

1467
01:56:26,504 --> 01:56:28,984
Is there any request that council would like to discuss

1468
01:56:28,984 --> 01:56:37,115
further? Council, Dehart. Thank you, worship. Mac, I just wanted

1469
01:56:37,115 --> 01:56:39,635
to ask you, and I don't. Remember. And maybe I

1470
01:56:39,635 --> 01:56:42,595
shouldn't remember. But you said you're going to reinstate. The

1471
01:56:42,595 --> 01:56:46,775
stormwater gauge program. Why? And when was that shut down?

1472
01:56:46,775 --> 01:56:49,364
And now? We're going to reinstate it. Can you just

1473
01:56:49,364 --> 01:56:52,164
talk about that a little bit, councilor? Dehart through the

1474
01:56:52,164 --> 01:56:54,924
chair. I think Mr. Van Blee is best able to

1475
01:56:54,924 --> 01:56:59,620
answer that. Thank you, worship. At one time, we had

1476
01:56:59,620 --> 01:57:04,783
quite a number of rankages on our SCaDA system. That

1477
01:57:04,783 --> 01:57:07,823
due to costs as well as some internal transfers, we

1478
01:57:07,823 --> 01:57:11,183
reduced some of those. We still have some rain gauges

1479
01:57:11,183 --> 01:57:13,543
and the mention there is really that we are trying

1480
01:57:13,543 --> 01:57:18,981
to within our existing. Funding start to reestablish them because

1481
01:57:18,981 --> 01:57:23,094
they provide excellent data for us to help drive. Data.

1482
01:57:23,094 --> 01:57:26,894
Good data driven decisions. But we're not asking for additional

1483
01:57:26,894 --> 01:57:30,618
funding at this time, okay? Good. Because I think that's

1484
01:57:30,618 --> 01:57:35,757
quite important. I think. In stormwater and flood protection. I

1485
01:57:35,757 --> 01:57:37,757
would say that is quite important to have that data.

1486
01:57:39,435 --> 01:57:42,115
Yes, you, worship. It is important. And that is something

1487
01:57:42,115 --> 01:57:46,235
that you're looking at improving over. Time. Thank you, Councilor

1488
01:57:46,235 --> 01:57:49,755
Lovegrove. Please. Yeah, thanks to worship. Actually, I fully support

1489
01:57:49,755 --> 01:57:53,243
the proposed. Budget items. I just have a question. On

1490
01:57:53,243 --> 01:57:59,007
the 2025 key accomplishments, and I appreciate. The infrastructure manager

1491
01:57:59,007 --> 01:58:02,567
highlighted the Stormwater Pond Asset renewal program study that was

1492
01:58:02,567 --> 01:58:06,127
done. I'm just wondering. You say that to better understand

1493
01:58:06,127 --> 01:58:11,747
our stormwater management ponds. From a risk based asset management

1494
01:58:11,747 --> 01:58:14,787
and GIS lens. Was there also a climate lens applied

1495
01:58:14,787 --> 01:58:18,979
there? I mean, ponds are also looked at as potentially

1496
01:58:18,979 --> 01:58:23,490
wetlands. Given our climate change that we're experiencing, was that

1497
01:58:23,490 --> 01:58:25,130
looked at or will that be looked at at some

1498
01:58:25,130 --> 01:58:29,894
point. Yes, your worship. Climate change is impacting the amount

1499
01:58:29,894 --> 01:58:33,374
of stormwater that we receive, and so. We are looking

1500
01:58:33,374 --> 01:58:37,294
at all of our stormwater infrastructure from that lens that

1501
01:58:37,294 --> 01:58:39,574
the amount of rainfall we're getting in the summer and

1502
01:58:39,574 --> 01:58:43,134
in the winter is changing, increasing generally in the winter.

1503
01:58:43,134 --> 01:58:46,014
And that is part of all of our stormwater management

1504
01:58:46,014 --> 01:58:50,256
is that. The new paradigm that we can anticipate. Thank

1505
01:58:50,256 --> 01:58:53,376
you. So you're going to need more. Last, is there

1506
01:58:53,376 --> 01:58:55,296
a recommendation on that study? That we can look at

1507
01:58:55,296 --> 01:58:57,456
at some point, or is it being represented? And I

1508
01:58:57,456 --> 01:59:01,147
just forgot about. It. I apologize if I did. It

1509
01:59:01,147 --> 01:59:03,662
has not yet been presented. We're still in the process

1510
01:59:03,662 --> 01:59:07,455
of evaluating the assets. Their condition. Part of it is

1511
01:59:07,455 --> 01:59:12,893
lifecycle. How do we renew a storm pond? Over time,

1512
01:59:12,893 --> 01:59:15,173
storm ponds will fill up with debris and silt. Et

1513
01:59:15,173 --> 01:59:17,173
cetera. And how do we manage them, especially if they've

1514
01:59:17,173 --> 01:59:19,853
become a wetland? And there's critters living in them, et

1515
01:59:19,853 --> 01:59:23,782
cetera. So. We're at the early stages of that program,

1516
01:59:23,782 --> 01:59:26,302
and we have not reported any details back. To council

1517
01:59:26,302 --> 01:59:29,222
yet. Okay. I really appreciate that answer. Thank you, worship.

1518
01:59:29,222 --> 01:59:33,102
Council Cannon, please. Thank you, worship. Okanagan Basin waterboard. We

1519
01:59:33,102 --> 01:59:34,822
just had a five hour strategic plan, and it was

1520
01:59:34,822 --> 01:59:38,868
a big issue as far as. Performance measurement number one,

1521
01:59:38,868 --> 01:59:41,308
protect the Oakland and lake by minimizing the contaminants. In

1522
01:59:41,308 --> 01:59:46,190
the creek so that protecting the watershed so. I really

1523
01:59:46,190 --> 01:59:50,796
see appreciate the efforts you're doing. To minimize the impact,

1524
01:59:50,796 --> 01:59:53,916
whether it's through development or climate change. My question is

1525
01:59:53,916 --> 01:59:57,956
on page 155. The flood Protection Mill Creek budget is

1526
01:59:57,956 --> 02:00:01,676
requested to continue the seven year program. So what year

1527
02:00:01,676 --> 02:00:05,719
are we into the seven year program? Thank you. Councilor

1528
02:00:05,719 --> 02:00:13,374
Hodge, please. I know the answer is in here somewhere,

1529
02:00:13,374 --> 02:00:17,105
but I look far enough. I think that's the adventure.

1530
02:00:17,105 --> 02:00:25,586
Look at the numbers. Measure number one. The grid that

1531
02:00:25,586 --> 02:00:31,510
shows the protection leak by minimizing contaminants. And the torque

1532
02:00:31,510 --> 02:00:35,014
and. Most of the time in the 30s, which is

1533
02:00:35,014 --> 02:00:40,152
fair. But in 2014, we're down to 22, which is

1534
02:00:40,152 --> 02:00:44,116
pretty good. Why is that number there amongst all the

1535
02:00:44,116 --> 02:00:49,338
lower number that are rail? You worship a lot of

1536
02:00:49,338 --> 02:00:52,258
this. This is a performance measure that we've made in

1537
02:00:52,258 --> 02:00:57,771
house. Taking data from nine different creeks. Three different aspects.

1538
02:00:59,275 --> 02:01:03,955
And my technical expert is not here. He's somewhere in

1539
02:01:03,955 --> 02:01:06,555
the United States. But I can. Assure you that it's

1540
02:01:06,555 --> 02:01:10,155
very likely just a data driven the quantity quantity of

1541
02:01:10,155 --> 02:01:13,030
data that we had at that time. It says, judge.

1542
02:01:13,030 --> 02:01:15,750
A dramatic shift from all the other ones on the

1543
02:01:15,750 --> 02:01:20,805
chart. Maybe it's a flunder, but. There's no particular. Yeah,

1544
02:01:20,805 --> 02:01:23,085
I suspect that's more of a data anomaly at this

1545
02:01:23,085 --> 02:01:26,348
time, but I can really. Look back. I guess I

1546
02:01:26,348 --> 02:01:29,388
have a habit of finding anomalies. There we are. All

1547
02:01:29,388 --> 02:01:38,846
right. Thank you. Melanie, please. Thank you, your

1548
02:01:38,846 --> 02:01:42,046
worship. We will now move into the water utility and

1549
02:01:42,046 --> 02:01:46,646
I will pass it back. To Mr. Logan. Thank you,

1550
02:01:46,646 --> 02:01:50,606
Mel. Looking at this year's accomplishments in the water utility,

1551
02:01:50,606 --> 02:01:53,726
I would like to reiterate the completion of the water

1552
02:01:53,726 --> 02:01:57,328
security plan. And say a particular thank you to Rod

1553
02:01:57,328 --> 02:02:01,408
McLean. Council has seen us refer to this program during

1554
02:02:01,408 --> 02:02:05,608
our various presentations, and it represents a foundational document to

1555
02:02:05,608 --> 02:02:10,858
preserve and protect this most important of natural assets. In

1556
02:02:10,858 --> 02:02:16,553
2025, the team from the Glen irrigation. District began their

1557
02:02:16,553 --> 02:02:19,433
transition to become part of our utility, and I'm happy

1558
02:02:19,433 --> 02:02:23,465
to stay with no impact to customers and. Excellent staff

1559
02:02:23,465 --> 02:02:27,104
retention. Out of the public eye. Our team has also

1560
02:02:27,104 --> 02:02:31,014
been improving the. Quality of water treatment at the El

1561
02:02:31,014 --> 02:02:36,048
Dorado and McKinley water supply points. With the introduction of

1562
02:02:36,048 --> 02:02:40,408
sodium hypochloride treatments of the supply, which reduces the risk

1563
02:02:40,408 --> 02:02:44,208
to our staff, the environment and the public, and in

1564
02:02:44,208 --> 02:02:47,768
numerous locations around Kelowna, we've been upgrading and renewing the

1565
02:02:47,768 --> 02:02:52,888
city Ngid water networks, including along Glamor Road north, which

1566
02:02:52,888 --> 02:02:54,688
we have just wrapped up for the year and are

1567
02:02:54,688 --> 02:02:58,501
about to start next. Year's program. Looking at how we're

1568
02:02:58,501 --> 02:03:03,968
improving the quality and reliability of our network. We've applied

1569
02:03:03,968 --> 02:03:07,128
more advanced computer analysis of our water network to identify

1570
02:03:07,128 --> 02:03:12,612
the optimal locations and frequency for system flushing. We've been

1571
02:03:12,612 --> 02:03:16,772
incorporating Giid into our city water utility, which also means

1572
02:03:16,772 --> 02:03:22,612
integrating our systems. And developing tools for Gid that inform

1573
02:03:22,612 --> 02:03:26,292
their maintenance programs. We were successful in receiving a small

1574
02:03:26,292 --> 02:03:30,006
grant of 25,000 to develop a new asset. Assessment for

1575
02:03:30,006 --> 02:03:34,190
the GID system. Finally, council, I would like to highlight

1576
02:03:34,190 --> 02:03:38,270
the ongoing program to replace and upgrade critical water supply

1577
02:03:38,270 --> 02:03:42,470
mains in 2026, the program will focus its investment on

1578
02:03:42,470 --> 02:03:45,070
the pipe that links the McKinley reservoir. To other areas

1579
02:03:45,070 --> 02:03:48,190
of the network, as well as continuing to replace water

1580
02:03:48,190 --> 02:03:53,492
pipelines along the glamour road. Looking at the performance metrics

1581
02:03:53,492 --> 02:03:58,118
in the water utility. The water utility does a great

1582
02:03:58,118 --> 02:04:00,118
deal of testing and monitoring, and as a result, we

1583
02:04:00,118 --> 02:04:05,078
have no problem demonstrating our performance to colonial citizens. Please

1584
02:04:05,078 --> 02:04:08,238
note that we have updated several of these performance metrics

1585
02:04:08,238 --> 02:04:14,099
to include the Gid system. Performance measure number one demonstrates

1586
02:04:14,099 --> 02:04:17,339
that water quality almost always meets water guidelines with limited

1587
02:04:17,339 --> 02:04:20,339
quality warnings for a variety of reasons, such as turbidity.

1588
02:04:21,881 --> 02:04:26,081
Performance metric two demonstrates that we continue to produce our

1589
02:04:26,081 --> 02:04:29,121
targeted water supply, and I also find it interesting that

1590
02:04:29,121 --> 02:04:32,081
if you look at the five years on this report,

1591
02:04:32,081 --> 02:04:36,681
we've maintained a fairly continuous amount of consumption, even while

1592
02:04:36,681 --> 02:04:41,050
our population has been growing. Performance metric three shows water

1593
02:04:41,050 --> 02:04:44,570
main brakes, and that is important is that it inflicts

1594
02:04:44,570 --> 02:04:49,547
a supply disruption on customers. And while Gid is commendably

1595
02:04:49,547 --> 02:04:52,925
low, We do see a number that the city would

1596
02:04:52,925 --> 02:04:55,805
hope to increase with or would hope to improve. On

1597
02:04:55,805 --> 02:05:01,976
with our increased investment. In replacement. Performance metric four and

1598
02:05:01,976 --> 02:05:05,216
five. Repeat our observation that the current level of renewal

1599
02:05:05,216 --> 02:05:07,776
spending is below the recommended long term goals, so we're

1600
02:05:07,776 --> 02:05:13,216
gradually improving that and performance metrics. Six demonstrates that. Kelowna's

1601
02:05:13,216 --> 02:05:17,376
water utilities, delivering safe and reliable supply of both drinking

1602
02:05:17,376 --> 02:05:20,176
and non potable water at one of the lowest rates

1603
02:05:20,176 --> 02:05:22,522
within british. Columbia. And now we'll pass it back to

1604
02:05:22,522 --> 02:05:28,374
the financial planning manager. The water utility has an operating,

1605
02:05:28,374 --> 02:05:33,734
sorry, an expenditure budget of $93.9 million and is operated

1606
02:05:33,734 --> 02:05:40,154
under several different cost centers. Funding for this utility is

1607
02:05:40,154 --> 02:05:44,474
predominantly from reserve funding, fees and charges, and borrowing. With

1608
02:05:44,474 --> 02:05:50,845
the addition of some other revenues and grants. The 2025

1609
02:05:50,845 --> 02:05:57,965
revised budget for the utility is 52,164,000. After annualizing previously

1610
02:05:57,965 --> 02:06:02,205
approved budget request. The utility will start the 2026 year

1611
02:06:02,205 --> 02:06:10,087
with a budget of 25,484,000. To maintain current service levels,

1612
02:06:10,087 --> 02:06:16,087
an additional 65,970,000 is requested. And to enhance service levels.

1613
02:06:16,087 --> 02:06:23,739
An additional 2,412,000 is requested. This service area has three

1614
02:06:23,739 --> 02:06:28,419
priority one operating request, and they start on page 166

1615
02:06:28,419 --> 02:06:32,299
of your budget. Volume. The first is the dam safety

1616
02:06:32,299 --> 02:06:39,897
program. It starts at 72,000 in 2026, increasing to 140,000

1617
02:06:39,897 --> 02:06:46,856
ongoing. Next is the network road safety. Requirements at $60,000

1618
02:06:46,856 --> 02:06:50,936
ongoing and the third being water operations at 77,000 in

1619
02:06:50,936 --> 02:07:00,900
2026 increasing 247,000 ongoing. The water utility capital program for

1620
02:07:00,900 --> 02:07:04,620
2026 is mostly in alignment with the ten year Capital

1621
02:07:04,620 --> 02:07:09,620
Plan with the exception of the codable water Network Growth

1622
02:07:09,620 --> 02:07:17,069
and renewal program, Where we have included in the last

1623
02:07:17,069 --> 02:07:23,278
budget amendment report. An advancement of $1.5 million in the

1624
02:07:23,278 --> 02:07:27,798
water meter replacement program and the deferral of 300,000 for

1625
02:07:27,798 --> 02:07:32,628
the potable PRV renewal program. Is there any request that

1626
02:07:32,628 --> 02:07:37,969
council would like to discuss further? Council. Weber. Weber, please.

1627
02:07:38,197 --> 02:07:40,397
I see that we're going to be spending a lot

1628
02:07:40,397 --> 02:07:42,677
of money in the next few years. As you mentioned,

1629
02:07:42,677 --> 02:07:45,997
the capital in the capital request potable water network growth

1630
02:07:45,997 --> 02:07:50,624
and renewal and water treatment, growth and renewal. 22. $23

1631
02:07:50,624 --> 02:07:54,653
million. This coming year and then more to come, and

1632
02:07:54,653 --> 02:07:58,893
it's coming from reserve, various reserves, and borrowing. I'm just

1633
02:07:58,893 --> 02:08:01,813
curious how that comes to be. As opposed to there's

1634
02:08:01,813 --> 02:08:07,875
nothing. Listed for taxation. Thank you, your worship. As this

1635
02:08:07,875 --> 02:08:10,755
is the water utility, it is operated as a self

1636
02:08:10,755 --> 02:08:14,475
funded area using utility fees and charges to fund this

1637
02:08:14,475 --> 02:08:18,256
as opposed to property taxation. So I guess the question

1638
02:08:18,256 --> 02:08:20,616
is, when you're borrowing money, is that a cost that

1639
02:08:20,616 --> 02:08:22,216
would be prevented if you were doing it some other

1640
02:08:22,216 --> 02:08:26,523
way. Thank you, your worship. At the time of borrowing,

1641
02:08:26,523 --> 02:08:29,043
we will look at the different options that we have

1642
02:08:29,043 --> 02:08:35,084
for borrowing. We could borrow city funding and funded ourselves

1643
02:08:35,084 --> 02:08:38,364
internally. Or we will look at MFA funding and then

1644
02:08:38,364 --> 02:08:40,884
return to council to ask for approval on borrowing that

1645
02:08:40,884 --> 02:08:46,060
way. Thank you. We're just going to go to Mr.

1646
02:08:46,060 --> 02:08:50,181
Sas, please. Thank you, worship. It's a good question. The

1647
02:08:50,181 --> 02:08:53,181
utilities are actually one of the areas because. We build

1648
02:08:53,181 --> 02:08:56,701
such long range, large infrastructure that really lend itself well

1649
02:08:56,701 --> 02:09:04,379
to. Debt financing, as opposed to raising rates today to

1650
02:09:04,379 --> 02:09:07,939
fund that significant infrastructure. It's also important to note that

1651
02:09:07,939 --> 02:09:11,379
these are not taxation funded areas and so they don't

1652
02:09:11,379 --> 02:09:14,259
hit things like our tax supported debt service ratios and

1653
02:09:14,259 --> 02:09:17,019
things like that. So it's actually a very opportune place

1654
02:09:17,019 --> 02:09:20,059
to utilize debt to be able to facilitate the investment

1655
02:09:20,059 --> 02:09:24,205
in infrastructure. Requ. Required. Thank you. And we've learned from

1656
02:09:24,205 --> 02:09:26,805
Mr. Sass that we're bringing in. More money on our

1657
02:09:26,805 --> 02:09:28,965
investments and having money in the bank than it costs

1658
02:09:28,965 --> 02:09:32,085
us to borrow money. So it's only more efficient. It's

1659
02:09:32,085 --> 02:09:33,445
not like I was sitting here going, let's put it

1660
02:09:33,445 --> 02:09:35,405
on the tax bill. That wasn't my point of my

1661
02:09:35,405 --> 02:09:41,300
question. Seeing. No further questions. Thank you. Thank you. We

1662
02:09:41,300 --> 02:09:45,740
will next move into solid waste in landfill. This starts

1663
02:09:45,740 --> 02:09:52,338
on page 172 of your budget volume. Thank your worship,

1664
02:09:52,338 --> 02:09:56,418
and it's my pleasure. To round out the utilities with

1665
02:09:56,418 --> 02:10:00,138
our solid waste management line of service, and I often

1666
02:10:00,138 --> 02:10:04,028
tell citizens that. Ask me what I do. Say I

1667
02:10:04,028 --> 02:10:05,908
make sure when you turn on your top, you've got

1668
02:10:05,908 --> 02:10:08,668
drinking water. When you flush your toilet, it goes away

1669
02:10:08,668 --> 02:10:10,828
somewhere and gets properly treated, and we come and collect

1670
02:10:10,828 --> 02:10:13,628
your garbage. Once a week. So I consider these the

1671
02:10:13,628 --> 02:10:18,279
fundamental services that we often take for granted, but. The

1672
02:10:18,279 --> 02:10:23,342
city does seamlessly and very cost effectively. In 2025, the

1673
02:10:23,342 --> 02:10:27,902
Glenmore landfill area three. Liner was completed and began to

1674
02:10:27,902 --> 02:10:31,342
accept waste. This was a major capital project and was

1675
02:10:31,342 --> 02:10:35,022
completed without disrupting the operation of the landfill. The result

1676
02:10:35,022 --> 02:10:38,222
is a significant increase in the capacity of the site

1677
02:10:38,222 --> 02:10:42,622
to accept waste from our growing region. And speaking of

1678
02:10:42,622 --> 02:10:46,865
the region, working with RDCO, we supported the evaluation. Of

1679
02:10:46,865 --> 02:10:50,985
further organics waste diversion. While we did not ultimately implement

1680
02:10:50,985 --> 02:10:53,145
a full program at this time, we did learn a

1681
02:10:53,145 --> 02:10:56,825
great deal about the region's organic waste production and the

1682
02:10:56,825 --> 02:11:00,665
options to divert that reusable material from the landfill. And

1683
02:11:00,665 --> 02:11:03,025
I would like to highlight that we've begun the construction

1684
02:11:03,025 --> 02:11:06,305
of a diversion of the stormwater in the Glenmore valley

1685
02:11:06,305 --> 02:11:09,165
around the. Landfill. And what that does is maintains the

1686
02:11:09,165 --> 02:11:12,441
quality of the water. Entering Brance Creek and traveling through

1687
02:11:12,441 --> 02:11:17,276
Kelowna towards the lake. And finally. Our ongoing fleet modernization,

1688
02:11:17,276 --> 02:11:20,836
the reduction of climate impacts. We have now have our

1689
02:11:20,836 --> 02:11:23,676
first fully electric front. End loader in service at the

1690
02:11:23,676 --> 02:11:30,267
landfill. Looking at our continuous improvement measures in 2026, the

1691
02:11:30,267 --> 02:11:32,787
solid waste team will continue our work on a system

1692
02:11:32,787 --> 02:11:35,947
to pretreat the fluids that leach out from the landfill

1693
02:11:35,947 --> 02:11:40,660
before they entered the wastewater collection and treatment system. This

1694
02:11:40,660 --> 02:11:44,964
helps protect and maintain. The performance at the water treatment

1695
02:11:44,964 --> 02:11:50,088
plant. We're beginning the crushing of waste concrete and asphalt

1696
02:11:50,088 --> 02:11:53,928
to generate a renewable aggregate for new concrete in Asheville,

1697
02:11:53,928 --> 02:11:56,648
and that's a really effective way to put that material

1698
02:11:56,648 --> 02:11:58,608
back on. The street and keep it out of the

1699
02:11:58,608 --> 02:12:02,599
landfill. It's also, I would highlight found that it's a

1700
02:12:02,599 --> 02:12:05,439
dimensionally stable material and you can use it in wet

1701
02:12:05,439 --> 02:12:10,293
conditions and get back to construction more quickly. We're implementing

1702
02:12:10,293 --> 02:12:14,253
an online booking system so that contractors dropping off drywall

1703
02:12:14,253 --> 02:12:16,853
can do so. At a scheduled time. And drywall is

1704
02:12:16,853 --> 02:12:18,813
something we definitely want to keep out of the landfill.

1705
02:12:18,813 --> 02:12:25,264
It produces. Some. Undesirable byproducts. And finally, we are continuing

1706
02:12:25,264 --> 02:12:29,544
to gradually electify our operation, with next year's focus being

1707
02:12:29,544 --> 02:12:34,415
removing the diesel power from our composting equipment. Solid waste.

1708
02:12:34,415 --> 02:12:37,495
Performance measures cover a variety of ways. We assess how

1709
02:12:37,495 --> 02:12:41,095
well we are serving the city. Performance metrics number one

1710
02:12:41,095 --> 02:12:44,335
and two monitor how well our societal programs are at

1711
02:12:44,335 --> 02:12:49,506
reducing waste and diverting waste. You can see that in

1712
02:12:49,506 --> 02:12:53,066
post Covid waste generation is stable. Perhaps an area we

1713
02:12:53,066 --> 02:12:57,910
continue to seek community improvement. Performance metric three demonstrates that

1714
02:12:57,910 --> 02:13:01,670
we are capturing and using an increasing amount of landfill

1715
02:13:01,670 --> 02:13:07,734
gases. Performance metric four demonstrates that organic waste generation is

1716
02:13:07,734 --> 02:13:12,494
also relatively stable relative to the household waste collection so

1717
02:13:12,494 --> 02:13:16,363
even though our population is increasing, That is staying stable,

1718
02:13:16,363 --> 02:13:19,123
which may reflect that we have higher intensification abuse on

1719
02:13:19,123 --> 02:13:22,043
a given lot. And now I'd like to hand the

1720
02:13:22,043 --> 02:13:26,876
presentation back to the financial planning manager. So these solid

1721
02:13:26,876 --> 02:13:30,636
waste in landfill service area has an expenditure budget of

1722
02:13:30,636 --> 02:13:35,676
$38.9 million. And is operated under three cost centers.

1723
02:13:40,754 --> 02:13:45,368
Funding. For this service area is predominantly fees and charges

1724
02:13:45,368 --> 02:13:54,146
and transfers from reserves. The 2025 revised budget was $43,260,000.

1725
02:13:56,321 --> 02:14:00,961
After annualizing previously approved requests, we will start 2026 at

1726
02:14:00,961 --> 02:14:07,380
a budget of 27,970,000. To maintain current service levels and

1727
02:14:07,380 --> 02:14:12,620
additional 10,085,000 is being requested and to enhance service levels.

1728
02:14:12,620 --> 02:14:20,926
$850,000. This service area has two priority one operating requests

1729
02:14:20,926 --> 02:14:25,366
that are on page 181, first one being landfill emissions

1730
02:14:25,366 --> 02:14:32,875
monitoring at 110,000 ongoing and the second being. Landfill operations

1731
02:14:32,875 --> 02:14:42,012
for 133,000 in 2026, increasing to 137,000 ongoing. The 2026

1732
02:14:42,012 --> 02:14:46,292
Capital Plan for this service area is in 100% compliance

1733
02:14:46,292 --> 02:14:50,212
or alignment with the council approved ten year capital plan.

1734
02:14:50,212 --> 02:14:52,732
Are there any individual requests that council would like to

1735
02:14:52,732 --> 02:15:00,051
discuss further? Seeing none. Thank you. Thank you. We will

1736
02:15:00,051 --> 02:15:04,662
next move to the transportation service area. Starting on page

1737
02:15:04,662 --> 02:15:10,230
184 of your budget volume. Thank you, worship. Continuing with

1738
02:15:10,230 --> 02:15:16,333
the infrastructure division, we're now at transportation. I may tell

1739
02:15:16,333 --> 02:15:18,613
them about water, sewer and garbage. They usually ask me

1740
02:15:18,613 --> 02:15:22,873
about transportation. As council is well aware, our ability to

1741
02:15:22,873 --> 02:15:25,193
move people around Cologne is easily one of the top

1742
02:15:25,193 --> 02:15:31,285
concerns of residents, businesses and visitors. During 2025, there's been

1743
02:15:31,285 --> 02:15:35,485
a record level of investment in maintaining, expanding and efficiently

1744
02:15:35,485 --> 02:15:42,191
operating our system. A few highlights include. The record level

1745
02:15:42,191 --> 02:15:44,631
of resurfacing that we did this year all over the

1746
02:15:44,631 --> 02:15:47,511
city. It was about $5.3 million, I believe, at year

1747
02:15:47,511 --> 02:15:52,808
end. We had. A number of major road projects completed.

1748
02:15:52,808 --> 02:15:55,968
These included a new roundabout and roadway connection at Frost

1749
02:15:55,968 --> 02:16:00,208
Road and Shoot Lake and a second roundabout completed on

1750
02:16:00,208 --> 02:16:05,653
Valley Road. A new program in 2025 for the reconstruction

1751
02:16:05,653 --> 02:16:10,714
of inner city roads. Was undertaken. We completed three roads

1752
02:16:10,714 --> 02:16:14,114
this year, and these projects take existing roads. They add

1753
02:16:14,114 --> 02:16:17,634
curb and gutter and introduce stormwater. They repave the roads.

1754
02:16:19,260 --> 02:16:21,300
They renew the utilities and they prepare the streets for

1755
02:16:21,300 --> 02:16:25,420
the completion of the envisioned urban renewal. We typically are

1756
02:16:25,420 --> 02:16:28,020
selecting roads where the urban renewal on the street is

1757
02:16:28,020 --> 02:16:33,550
about 50% and expected to continue to develop. We've also

1758
02:16:33,550 --> 02:16:36,790
put a significant amount of our current budget towards the

1759
02:16:36,790 --> 02:16:40,030
design of major road projects which will show up in

1760
02:16:40,030 --> 02:16:45,270
the 2026 capital budget for construction. The future projects, our

1761
02:16:45,270 --> 02:16:49,470
future projects include two new road segments, one at North

1762
02:16:49,470 --> 02:16:53,586
Hollywood Road to support the future transit garage. And also

1763
02:16:53,586 --> 02:16:57,066
the land exchange deal from the Colonial Springs Golf Club,

1764
02:16:57,066 --> 02:16:59,506
as well as the extension to the south, a birch

1765
02:16:59,506 --> 02:17:03,786
road from Gushigan down to Klo. Looking at our continuous

1766
02:17:03,786 --> 02:17:11,928
improvement. We've introduced a suite of new policy advancements. The

1767
02:17:11,928 --> 02:17:15,528
department is following on from the city's accessibility strategy. The

1768
02:17:15,528 --> 02:17:20,448
Jim Gabriel's team delivered to create an accessibility strategy specifically

1769
02:17:20,448 --> 02:17:23,768
focused on the transportation network, and the council will see

1770
02:17:23,768 --> 02:17:28,177
that report in the first quarter of 2026. We've just

1771
02:17:28,177 --> 02:17:31,377
completed the safe mobility action plan, which council will see

1772
02:17:31,377 --> 02:17:35,057
at next Monday's. Meeting and this response to council's priority

1773
02:17:35,057 --> 02:17:40,700
to improve the safe operation of our transportation. Network. In

1774
02:17:40,700 --> 02:17:44,340
2025, we commenced a review of the downtown transportation system,

1775
02:17:44,340 --> 02:17:48,180
and we will complete that work. Mid 2026. The Downtown

1776
02:17:48,180 --> 02:17:51,300
transportation review will help identify the key function of each

1777
02:17:51,300 --> 02:17:53,740
of the roadways. In our city center and inform the

1778
02:17:53,740 --> 02:17:57,396
design. For future developments that are occurring adjacent to those

1779
02:17:57,396 --> 02:18:00,716
roads, and one of the best value for money. Projects

1780
02:18:00,716 --> 02:18:04,316
that we delivered in 2025 was the implementation of smart

1781
02:18:04,316 --> 02:18:11,650
signal management along Springfield Road that pilot program. Demonstrated, had

1782
02:18:11,650 --> 02:18:14,890
a successful demonstration, and the value of this type of

1783
02:18:14,890 --> 02:18:19,130
an approach was clearly articulated. Our next phase of signal.

1784
02:18:20,625 --> 02:18:24,305
System management is currently in the testing phase along enterprise

1785
02:18:24,305 --> 02:18:27,865
and will and additional sites will be identified around the

1786
02:18:27,865 --> 02:18:30,385
inner city to be installed in the coming year and

1787
02:18:30,385 --> 02:18:36,239
beyond. The transportation department reports on six performance metrics at

1788
02:18:36,239 --> 02:18:40,119
this time. Performance metric one tracks the injury rate on

1789
02:18:40,119 --> 02:18:46,192
a per capita basis. We can see a steady, positive

1790
02:18:46,192 --> 02:18:49,432
downward trend. Council will hear more about this at next

1791
02:18:49,432 --> 02:18:52,882
Monday's. Council report, so I won't get into that. Performance

1792
02:18:52,882 --> 02:18:56,602
metric two is a measure of how our development, our

1793
02:18:56,602 --> 02:19:00,722
growth and population is showing up as congestion on our

1794
02:19:00,722 --> 02:19:06,344
key roadways. We recognize that it's a balance between expanding

1795
02:19:06,344 --> 02:19:09,904
roadways and the cost associated with that. With accepting a

1796
02:19:09,904 --> 02:19:13,304
certain amount of congestion that comes along with intensification of

1797
02:19:13,304 --> 02:19:17,629
the inner city. Performance metric three and four speak to

1798
02:19:17,629 --> 02:19:21,269
enabling travel by means other than driving a car. By

1799
02:19:21,269 --> 02:19:25,589
adding the missing sidewalk and providing safe cycling routes in

1800
02:19:25,589 --> 02:19:28,549
the inner city. Both metrics show that our current level

1801
02:19:28,549 --> 02:19:33,932
investment is improving and the situation is gradually improving. Performance

1802
02:19:33,932 --> 02:19:38,508
metric five. Measures the overall pavement quality. And this is

1803
02:19:38,508 --> 02:19:42,140
something that. We do. About a third of the city

1804
02:19:42,140 --> 02:19:45,620
each year is measured and we set a target for

1805
02:19:45,620 --> 02:19:50,349
about. A performance quality of about 60, and we're at

1806
02:19:50,349 --> 02:19:53,869
67, so we're slightly above. Our target and it informs

1807
02:19:53,869 --> 02:19:58,622
the investment in our repaving program. And finally, performance metric

1808
02:19:58,622 --> 02:20:01,742
six is a measure of how well we are able

1809
02:20:01,742 --> 02:20:04,862
to clear all of the snow and ice control how

1810
02:20:04,862 --> 02:20:06,982
well we are able to clear all of the roads

1811
02:20:06,982 --> 02:20:10,142
after snow. Events. And this is a balance, again, between

1812
02:20:10,142 --> 02:20:15,418
the cost of providing that service. And. The public expectation

1813
02:20:15,418 --> 02:20:19,572
on how quickly their roads are addressed. And I'll pass

1814
02:20:19,572 --> 02:20:23,612
it back to the financial planning manager. Thank you. The

1815
02:20:23,612 --> 02:20:30,612
transportation service area. Has an expenditure budget of $117.6 million

1816
02:20:30,612 --> 02:20:37,106
and is operated under several cost centers. The funding for

1817
02:20:37,106 --> 02:20:40,746
this service area is predominantly made up of transfers from

1818
02:20:40,746 --> 02:20:48,722
reserves, property tax, and borrowing. The 2025 revised budget was

1819
02:20:48,722 --> 02:20:58,310
116,298,000. After annualization of previously approved budget requests,

1820
02:20:58,310 --> 02:21:05,396
the service area will start the year at 23,765,000. To

1821
02:21:05,396 --> 02:21:11,796
maintain current service levels, an additional 84,179,000 is requested. And

1822
02:21:11,796 --> 02:21:20,230
to enhance service levels, an additional 9,670,000. This service area

1823
02:21:20,230 --> 02:21:23,990
has four operating requests prior to one operating request. Starting

1824
02:21:23,990 --> 02:21:29,190
on page 193 of your budget volume first being bike

1825
02:21:29,190 --> 02:21:35,070
path sweeping and litter and debris, starting at 275,000, increasing

1826
02:21:35,070 --> 02:21:42,641
to 295,000 in 2020. Seven and $315,000 ongoing, funded from

1827
02:21:42,641 --> 02:21:48,749
taxation. The gravel operations. Clean fill removal in 2026 of

1828
02:21:48,749 --> 02:21:55,629
$450,000 funded from reserve sidewalk inspections and furniture repair for

1829
02:21:55,629 --> 02:22:03,389
$103,000 ongoing, funded from taxation and transit litter at $60,000

1830
02:22:03,389 --> 02:22:10,494
ongoing. Funding from taxation. The 2026 capital program is in

1831
02:22:10,494 --> 02:22:14,374
alignment with the council approved ten year capital plan. But

1832
02:22:14,374 --> 02:22:18,534
at this time, staff would like to make a recommendation

1833
02:22:18,534 --> 02:22:23,694
to have the Wrbennet Bridge dynamic lighting. Request on page

1834
02:22:23,694 --> 02:22:33,656
202 be deferred to. Future years. Thank you. Anything

1835
02:22:33,656 --> 02:22:35,976
to add to that, I do have boarding on a

1836
02:22:35,976 --> 02:22:38,856
resolution for that particular. Please just share us the wording

1837
02:22:38,856 --> 02:22:40,856
at the moment. Thank you, worship. So, just following up

1838
02:22:40,856 --> 02:22:48,608
on staff's. Recommendation for removal of the bridge. I do

1839
02:22:48,608 --> 02:22:53,768
have resolution wording should council wish to advance that recommendation.

1840
02:22:53,768 --> 02:22:56,448
So that would be that. Council remove the Wrbent bridge

1841
02:22:56,448 --> 02:23:00,208
dynamic lighting, p. One item on page 202 from the

1842
02:23:00,208 --> 02:23:04,248
2026 financial plan, volume one preliminary budget with no impact

1843
02:23:04,248 --> 02:23:07,608
on taxation, and that council direct staff to further evaluate

1844
02:23:07,608 --> 02:23:10,506
opportunities to. Add dynamic lighting along the bridge for future

1845
02:23:10,506 --> 02:23:16,186
consideration. Moved by Councilor Woolridge. Seconded by Councilor Singh. Any

1846
02:23:16,186 --> 02:23:20,821
further discussion on that? Seeing none. All in favor? Is

1847
02:23:20,821 --> 02:23:25,310
there discussion? So my apologies. It looks like it was

1848
02:23:25,310 --> 02:23:27,990
moving forward anyways with the hands that were up. But

1849
02:23:27,990 --> 02:23:31,350
discussion there was a number of series of names up

1850
02:23:31,350 --> 02:23:33,990
prior to this, so I'm uncertain of who has discussion

1851
02:23:33,990 --> 02:23:36,550
on this in seeing it. Can I have a show

1852
02:23:36,550 --> 02:23:39,630
of hands? Who has discussions. Councilor Singh, please. Thank you,

1853
02:23:39,630 --> 02:23:44,174
worship. And I appreciate the fact that. We're making this

1854
02:23:44,174 --> 02:23:47,655
motion. I have heard a lot from the public. And

1855
02:23:47,655 --> 02:23:53,222
honestly, this time. In the economic environment that we're facing.

1856
02:23:55,180 --> 02:23:58,543
It may be something that is a little bit. Nice

1857
02:23:58,543 --> 02:24:04,556
to have, but not absolutely essential. And so I appreciate

1858
02:24:04,556 --> 02:24:09,598
the fact that staff is suggesting. We set it aside

1859
02:24:09,598 --> 02:24:12,878
for another day. I agree. We use the term iconic

1860
02:24:12,878 --> 02:24:22,206
and giving the bridge a certain. Picturesque look. But now

1861
02:24:22,206 --> 02:24:24,606
is not the time. So thank you. Thank you. Was

1862
02:24:24,606 --> 02:24:28,702
there other comments? Just please, you raise your hand if

1863
02:24:28,702 --> 02:24:33,303
there's. Trying to understand the law to why we're pulling

1864
02:24:33,303 --> 02:24:36,903
it out now, and I guess I've just heard. Staff

1865
02:24:36,903 --> 02:24:45,418
is making a recommendation. But. It seems we have more

1866
02:24:45,418 --> 02:24:47,738
of a discussion than just that to make a decision.

1867
02:24:49,127 --> 02:24:56,738
I think. Perhaps. Frivolous for some people. But I look

1868
02:24:56,738 --> 02:24:59,804
at it as a fear marketing tool. I think it's

1869
02:24:59,804 --> 02:25:07,820
a great idea, and I think it's worth. Looking at,

1870
02:25:07,820 --> 02:25:11,704
so. I don't support throwing it out. And, counsel, that's

1871
02:25:11,704 --> 02:25:14,224
the recommendation that we're. Doing. It's been moved and seconded.

1872
02:25:14,224 --> 02:25:16,064
We're doing comments and then you can either vote in

1873
02:25:16,064 --> 02:25:18,304
favor or against, and that will show your approval with

1874
02:25:18,304 --> 02:25:20,864
regards to the position. That we're taking. I thought that

1875
02:25:20,864 --> 02:25:24,904
was part of seeing. No further comments. Was there any

1876
02:25:24,904 --> 02:25:29,428
further comments. No further comments. All in favor? Opp? Opposed.

1877
02:25:29,428 --> 02:25:33,588
Councilor Hodge opposed to the removal. Thank you. So now,

1878
02:25:33,588 --> 02:25:36,988
going back to the. Now that. That motion has moved

1879
02:25:36,988 --> 02:25:41,308
forward going back to the other areas that were brought

1880
02:25:41,308 --> 02:25:43,948
forth in this section. And I'm going to go back.

1881
02:25:45,666 --> 02:25:47,346
To just calling the names. I'm assuming that you weren't

1882
02:25:47,346 --> 02:25:49,506
commenting on the last. One, but let's go to councilor

1883
02:25:49,506 --> 02:25:52,666
stack, please. Thanks, worship. Thanks, Mac. I just want. To

1884
02:25:52,666 --> 02:25:56,506
touch on the bike path, sweeping and litter and debris.

1885
02:25:56,506 --> 02:25:58,426
It's one of the things we hear quite frequently from

1886
02:25:58,426 --> 02:26:03,386
the public. So we're looking at increase enhancing the service

1887
02:26:03,386 --> 02:26:07,661
275,000 this year. Is there a base budget that's already

1888
02:26:07,661 --> 02:26:11,552
in there, and this will be adding to. Yes, your

1889
02:26:11,552 --> 02:26:16,115
worship. There is a base budget in this area. Some

1890
02:26:16,115 --> 02:26:18,715
of that budget was, I believe, on a temporary basis.

1891
02:26:20,471 --> 02:26:22,231
One of the things that we've been spending a lot

1892
02:26:22,231 --> 02:26:24,631
of attention on in the downtown core is making sure

1893
02:26:24,631 --> 02:26:26,871
that we're sweeping literally on a daily basis in front

1894
02:26:26,871 --> 02:26:28,911
of city hall. For those of you. Councilor sack, I

1895
02:26:28,911 --> 02:26:31,551
know you come in quite early. You'll notice the sweeper

1896
02:26:31,551 --> 02:26:34,271
goes through there before we ever get to work. And

1897
02:26:34,271 --> 02:26:37,724
also. The litter collection is something that shows up for

1898
02:26:37,724 --> 02:26:42,654
our city along the lakefront. If that's not addressed, some

1899
02:26:42,654 --> 02:26:44,974
of the details I'm sure Mr. Boss can add. More

1900
02:26:44,974 --> 02:26:48,414
to that. Good morning, Mr. Boss. Good morning, you, worship.

1901
02:26:50,046 --> 02:26:53,417
To councilor's next question. It is indeed maintaining the current

1902
02:26:53,417 --> 02:26:55,737
service level. So over the last two years, we've added

1903
02:26:55,737 --> 02:27:00,024
quite a few kilometers. Of infrastructure to the network, and

1904
02:27:00,024 --> 02:27:03,344
we're also trying to deliver the service according to the

1905
02:27:03,344 --> 02:27:06,224
service description that we have, which says that every bicycle

1906
02:27:06,224 --> 02:27:08,584
lane needs to be swept a minimum of ten times

1907
02:27:08,584 --> 02:27:11,664
per year. So that's really the service level that we

1908
02:27:11,664 --> 02:27:14,104
try to deliver to. And in order to make that

1909
02:27:14,104 --> 02:27:16,744
happen, that's where also some of the money goes, okay?

1910
02:27:16,744 --> 02:27:19,757
Thanks. Yeah. Because I think that's. We hear frequently and

1911
02:27:19,757 --> 02:27:22,575
also in the winter. And I think the shoulder seasons

1912
02:27:22,575 --> 02:27:24,695
with the leaf build up in some of those things.

1913
02:27:24,695 --> 02:27:29,215
So from the citizens perspective, the goal is ten times

1914
02:27:29,215 --> 02:27:32,175
sweep per year. But if there's a big snowfall as

1915
02:27:32,175 --> 02:27:37,320
an example. What would be the expected time before bike

1916
02:27:37,320 --> 02:27:40,773
lanes would be addressed? Your ship? That's a good question.

1917
02:27:40,773 --> 02:27:43,613
And that expenditure sits in the snow and ice control.

1918
02:27:43,613 --> 02:27:46,253
Budget. So that's outside of this one. This is predominantly

1919
02:27:46,253 --> 02:27:48,693
for sweeping and literally removal in the bicycle parts. But

1920
02:27:48,693 --> 02:27:50,773
the philosophy there is very much that if we have

1921
02:27:50,773 --> 02:27:54,373
separated infrastructure that we try to get that particular bicycle

1922
02:27:54,373 --> 02:27:58,013
infrastructure first because we are in a better position to

1923
02:27:58,013 --> 02:28:01,860
deliver a good quality service. On that piece of infrastructure

1924
02:28:01,860 --> 02:28:04,620
as to where the on road bicycle lanes or the

1925
02:28:04,620 --> 02:28:07,100
one that are painted on the side. They typically need

1926
02:28:07,100 --> 02:28:09,060
to wait until we have an opportunity to move the

1927
02:28:09,060 --> 02:28:11,780
snow. Out because in the end, those were built in

1928
02:28:11,780 --> 02:28:14,540
the snow storage for the road system. So it always

1929
02:28:14,540 --> 02:28:16,620
takes a few extra days, but we're always trying to

1930
02:28:16,620 --> 02:28:20,792
endeavor to deliver some infrastructure. Early on, so that. People

1931
02:28:20,792 --> 02:28:23,272
know that they can use that infrastructure to get on

1932
02:28:23,272 --> 02:28:28,966
their whereabouts. Good. Thanks, Mr. Vas. Councilor Wolverge, please. Thanks

1933
02:28:28,966 --> 02:28:32,914
for worship. Just on the item that we removed earlier,

1934
02:28:32,914 --> 02:28:36,034
I had a question when it was time for comment.

1935
02:28:36,034 --> 02:28:38,474
Because it was funded from reserve. That has been obviously

1936
02:28:38,474 --> 02:28:42,298
removed, which I support. That doesn't affect tax rate. Correct.

1937
02:28:42,298 --> 02:28:46,102
Because. We're still contributing to reserves. Just so that we're

1938
02:28:46,102 --> 02:28:51,109
clear, city manager that's. Correct your thank you. Councilor Lovegrove,

1939
02:28:51,109 --> 02:28:58,068
please. Thanks, your worship. I'm just following up on. A

1940
02:28:58,068 --> 02:29:03,356
couple of. Not clear on why. We've got a couple

1941
02:29:03,356 --> 02:29:07,259
of. They're showing as enhanced, but I thought. We had

1942
02:29:07,259 --> 02:29:12,365
base budgets. For safe route to schools. So on page

1943
02:29:12,365 --> 02:29:19,945
201, Active transportation upgrades. So budgets request that there's annual

1944
02:29:19,945 --> 02:29:24,316
program. What's the base budget? Are we increasing the base

1945
02:29:24,316 --> 02:29:31,380
budget or what's changed there? Thank you, your worship. For

1946
02:29:31,380 --> 02:29:36,420
the active transportation upgrade on page 201, that request, that

1947
02:29:36,420 --> 02:29:39,420
is a capital program. So we actually do not have

1948
02:29:39,420 --> 02:29:44,780
base budget for any capital programs or capital budgets. This,

1949
02:29:44,780 --> 02:29:47,660
in this case, is being considered an enhancement as it'll

1950
02:29:47,660 --> 02:29:54,146
be. New infrastructure for different areas that doesn't right now

1951
02:29:54,146 --> 02:29:57,226
exist. This is not renewal. This is an addition of

1952
02:29:57,226 --> 02:30:01,076
new infrastructure and new services in the area. But I

1953
02:30:01,076 --> 02:30:04,076
thought we had an existing safer to school program, but

1954
02:30:04,076 --> 02:30:06,116
let me focus in on that. One along. We do

1955
02:30:06,116 --> 02:30:09,736
have something for that already. Yes. Thank you, your worship.

1956
02:30:09,736 --> 02:30:11,936
There is a line item in the ten year capital

1957
02:30:11,936 --> 02:30:16,501
plan with an. Annual allocation for it, okay? So this

1958
02:30:16,501 --> 02:30:20,727
is adding to that or something else. If we don't

1959
02:30:20,727 --> 02:30:24,816
approve this, for example. We're not wiping out the safe

1960
02:30:24,816 --> 02:30:27,416
route to school program. Now our safe fruits to school.

1961
02:30:27,416 --> 02:30:32,370
Program. Is funded and the recommendations that come out of

1962
02:30:32,370 --> 02:30:36,272
that program. Are often funded by a variety of different

1963
02:30:36,272 --> 02:30:39,472
capital programs. Could be sidewalk program, could be a road

1964
02:30:39,472 --> 02:30:46,059
crossing for RfB. Or cycling facility. Okay. Councilor 1 second.

1965
02:30:46,059 --> 02:30:49,699
City manager, please. Yeah. Thank you, worship. Council may recall.

1966
02:30:49,699 --> 02:30:51,419
Probably at the beginning of your term. We brought forward

1967
02:30:51,419 --> 02:30:54,219
a report that talked about the utilization of funds that

1968
02:30:54,219 --> 02:30:57,339
were collected for cash in lieu for frontage improvements for

1969
02:30:57,339 --> 02:31:00,939
small scale developments and a creative means that Mr. Logan's

1970
02:31:00,939 --> 02:31:03,139
team came up with with our finance group to get.

1971
02:31:03,614 --> 02:31:05,254
More of that work done in a timely way so

1972
02:31:05,254 --> 02:31:08,014
that those funds didn't continue to sit in reserve and

1973
02:31:08,014 --> 02:31:11,830
degrade in value. And we would get the infrastructure put

1974
02:31:11,830 --> 02:31:13,750
into the ground. That's what you're seeing. Is the outshot

1975
02:31:13,750 --> 02:31:16,190
of some of that work. Fantastic. Okay. And you can

1976
02:31:16,190 --> 02:31:20,150
see some of those. Urbanization projects probably closer to the

1977
02:31:20,150 --> 02:31:23,990
Pandozi Francis streets in and around that area. This year

1978
02:31:23,990 --> 02:31:26,590
are a couple of good examples of where we've urbanized

1979
02:31:26,590 --> 02:31:31,855
those streets and improved pedestrian safety through. Those urbanization works

1980
02:31:31,855 --> 02:31:35,135
and drainage and such. Okay, thanks for clarifying that. That's

1981
02:31:35,135 --> 02:31:37,135
great. So none of the base budgets are impacted by.

1982
02:31:37,135 --> 02:31:40,762
This is just accelerating. And, in fact, appreciate that answer

1983
02:31:40,762 --> 02:31:43,282
because I had an earlier question on reserves, and I

1984
02:31:43,282 --> 02:31:46,402
see our DCC reserves coming down to a point. I'm

1985
02:31:46,402 --> 02:31:49,762
wondering, how many more years have we got DCC reserves

1986
02:31:49,762 --> 02:31:55,360
to accelerate. Our roads capital program yourself. Yeah. Thank you

1987
02:31:55,360 --> 02:31:57,400
for worship. I'll start. And if there's. More detail needed.

1988
02:31:57,400 --> 02:32:02,080
Joel, jump in. But our accelerated capital delivery program, particularly

1989
02:32:02,080 --> 02:32:04,480
related to roads, is in very good shape, and we

1990
02:32:04,480 --> 02:32:07,240
anticipate at least a few more years well into the

1991
02:32:07,240 --> 02:32:10,240
next term of council before we're at a place where

1992
02:32:10,240 --> 02:32:11,970
we have to have a question. About slowing down. That.

1993
02:32:13,340 --> 02:32:16,549
Acceleration. That's great news, councilor. Mr. Sass, do you have

1994
02:32:16,549 --> 02:32:19,392
anything to add to that? Just a quick addition. Thank

1995
02:32:19,392 --> 02:32:21,992
you, your worship. And a lot of that will depend

1996
02:32:21,992 --> 02:32:25,712
on the pace. Of development and the revenue that comes

1997
02:32:25,712 --> 02:32:28,392
in the future as well. So, yes, I would agree

1998
02:32:28,392 --> 02:32:31,239
with the city manager. We've got a few years well

1999
02:32:31,239 --> 02:32:33,639
into next council term, and we're watching the revenues very

2000
02:32:33,639 --> 02:32:39,610
closely. All right, awesome. And then some questions. On the,

2001
02:32:39,610 --> 02:32:42,490
I guess the birch road upgrades we're continuing to see.

2002
02:32:45,246 --> 02:32:48,766
And hear from residents about not the portions supporting the

2003
02:32:48,766 --> 02:32:54,288
PRC, but the portion connecting from Klo north. I'm going

2004
02:32:54,288 --> 02:32:56,288
to throw this out there and see if anybody has

2005
02:32:56,288 --> 02:33:00,417
any appetite to split. A motion to go for the

2006
02:33:00,417 --> 02:33:04,177
PRC birch upgrade portion of it and split out, or

2007
02:33:04,177 --> 02:33:08,177
at least starve for discussion this afternoon. The southern portion

2008
02:33:08,177 --> 02:33:10,604
at Klo. I'm going to make a motion in your

2009
02:33:10,604 --> 02:33:14,057
worship. I don't know if I've. Got a seconder. Do

2010
02:33:14,057 --> 02:33:19,104
you have a second? Seconder. You do not. Okay. And

2011
02:33:19,104 --> 02:33:25,910
I'll leave that. Sorry. And I believe the city manager

2012
02:33:25,910 --> 02:33:28,470
is just. Do you have anything? No. Good. Okay. Thank

2013
02:33:28,470 --> 02:33:35,864
you. And then. I won't speak to. Others other than

2014
02:33:35,864 --> 02:33:40,121
the p two. If we do not fund this p

2015
02:33:40,121 --> 02:33:44,401
two because this looks to move. This is page 204

2016
02:33:44,401 --> 02:33:45,881
for any of my other colleagues want to follow along.

2017
02:33:48,101 --> 02:33:52,621
The description says moving it from the collaboration from the

2018
02:33:52,621 --> 02:34:00,139
sustainable transportation partnership of the Central Okanagan. To. Trying to

2019
02:34:00,139 --> 02:34:03,323
find the quote, but. It's basically to do more of

2020
02:34:03,323 --> 02:34:05,723
a Clona centric, I guess, to introduce a city of

2021
02:34:05,723 --> 02:34:09,710
Clona led go by bike week. If we don't fund

2022
02:34:09,710 --> 02:34:12,772
this p two, do we end the whole. Is the

2023
02:34:12,772 --> 02:34:15,052
bike to work week not happening at all, or do

2024
02:34:15,052 --> 02:34:18,732
we just stay with the partnership? Of the central Okanagan.

2025
02:34:18,732 --> 02:34:24,878
Mr. Logan, please. Yes. Council. Yeah. If we did not

2026
02:34:24,878 --> 02:34:28,578
fund the go by bike week. The program, as we've

2027
02:34:28,578 --> 02:34:31,218
seen it over the last year, through several years, would

2028
02:34:31,218 --> 02:34:35,640
stop. And we would reach out to the biking community

2029
02:34:35,640 --> 02:34:37,640
to try to find a different way to deliver. That

2030
02:34:37,640 --> 02:34:42,694
program. With volunteers, with maybe more business or local support

2031
02:34:42,694 --> 02:34:45,934
of that program, but the city would not be carrying

2032
02:34:45,934 --> 02:34:49,434
a line share of the funding for the regional. Gobi

2033
02:34:49,434 --> 02:34:53,467
bike week, okay? I'm glad I asked that question then,

2034
02:34:53,467 --> 02:34:57,767
because I do not want that to stop. But then

2035
02:34:57,767 --> 02:35:01,047
I see a $45,000 tax. Yet if we bump this

2036
02:35:01,047 --> 02:35:04,769
up to p. One. Can we not give my council

2037
02:35:04,769 --> 02:35:08,609
colleagues question? And we've deferred the bridge lighting. Can we

2038
02:35:08,609 --> 02:35:10,849
not take this or fund us out of reserve? Or

2039
02:35:10,849 --> 02:35:15,963
does it not qualify? Typically, we don't fund. Reserves for

2040
02:35:15,963 --> 02:35:19,721
operating we typically use capital. Or fund capital programs with

2041
02:35:19,721 --> 02:35:23,881
reserves. I stand to be corrected by the finance department,

2042
02:35:23,881 --> 02:35:31,333
but I think. This is. A small. But significant. To

2043
02:35:31,333 --> 02:35:34,173
some program, and we've been doing it for a number

2044
02:35:34,173 --> 02:35:36,573
of years, but maybe it's time to look at a

2045
02:35:36,573 --> 02:35:40,373
crowd or a community sourced or funded program versus one

2046
02:35:40,373 --> 02:35:45,472
that's bankrolled by the taxpayer. Okay. That's a fair comment.

2047
02:35:45,472 --> 02:35:48,952
I appreciate partnerships. Absolutely. I guess I would like that

2048
02:35:48,952 --> 02:35:52,680
one. Starred to talk about later. For my colleagues. Support

2049
02:35:52,680 --> 02:35:56,150
me. Your worship, do we have a second? So we

2050
02:35:56,150 --> 02:35:58,750
have first and a second on it. So that's basically

2051
02:35:58,750 --> 02:36:01,870
starring that particular item. For further discussion. I see no

2052
02:36:01,870 --> 02:36:11,562
further discussion. All in favor? Opposed. Opposed. Counselor Weber. Councillor

2053
02:36:11,562 --> 02:36:17,722
Stack. Okay. And then the Pandoza Urban center transportation plan.

2054
02:36:17,722 --> 02:36:22,152
That's. An interesting one. There's a lot of stuff happening,

2055
02:36:22,152 --> 02:36:24,552
a lot of growth happening there, and I feel the

2056
02:36:24,552 --> 02:36:27,592
same about that. Again, same answer. I presume if I

2057
02:36:27,592 --> 02:36:29,592
ask if this can be funded out. Of reserve. It's

2058
02:36:29,592 --> 02:36:34,261
operating, so no. Or generally no. In this particular case,

2059
02:36:34,261 --> 02:36:37,221
I'm advised we can. There are reserves that are available

2060
02:36:37,221 --> 02:36:40,901
to fund this. I also believe council may be aware

2061
02:36:40,901 --> 02:36:43,061
that we deferred some of the urban planning. Work in

2062
02:36:43,061 --> 02:36:48,064
that area as well. So then I would like to

2063
02:36:48,064 --> 02:36:53,481
star this one. And discuss it later, your worship. So

2064
02:36:53,481 --> 02:36:56,441
there is a city manager. Just a comment, please, before

2065
02:36:56,441 --> 02:36:58,721
we go to that. Yeah, thank you. Your worship given

2066
02:36:58,721 --> 02:37:00,241
it to p two item. I think it would be

2067
02:37:00,241 --> 02:37:03,081
worthwhile having Mr. Logan. Comment on the capacity of the

2068
02:37:03,081 --> 02:37:04,881
team to be able to deliver on it if it

2069
02:37:04,881 --> 02:37:10,308
was funded. Thank you. City manager. Yeah, I would say

2070
02:37:10,308 --> 02:37:14,892
that. We would probably be looking to defer this by

2071
02:37:14,892 --> 02:37:18,713
a year, at least. We've got a number of policy

2072
02:37:18,713 --> 02:37:22,073
reports that we're bringing through, including the Richter. Corridor study

2073
02:37:22,073 --> 02:37:25,913
getting that finalized. And I just highlighted three other studies

2074
02:37:25,913 --> 02:37:28,913
earlier that we're delivering. Over the next six months. Okay,

2075
02:37:28,913 --> 02:37:34,789
on that basis. I'll withdraw. Thank you. Thanks. Thank you.

2076
02:37:34,789 --> 02:37:39,240
Councilor Cannon, please. Thank you, worship. Our sidewalks. I really

2077
02:37:39,240 --> 02:37:42,080
like the performance measure three. You're trying to get that

2078
02:37:42,080 --> 02:37:46,040
up to. 70% completion by 2040, and right now we're

2079
02:37:46,040 --> 02:37:51,654
at about 64. 65%. That's on page 194. Talks about

2080
02:37:51,654 --> 02:37:54,854
sidewalk inspections and furniture. What is our baseline budget? Right.

2081
02:37:54,854 --> 02:38:02,634
Now. For sidewalk repair replacement and what. We need to

2082
02:38:02,634 --> 02:38:07,074
get to 70%. Hang on just a second, council, and

2083
02:38:07,074 --> 02:38:13,762
we'll get. That number? 245,000. For inspections. For sidewalk based

2084
02:38:13,762 --> 02:38:21,327
budget. Amount based budget is $245,000. So how many? Linear

2085
02:38:21,327 --> 02:38:23,967
meters or feet to get. It's not very far. Many,

2086
02:38:23,967 --> 02:38:28,769
probably $1,000. A foot meter at least. So it's a

2087
02:38:28,769 --> 02:38:34,242
substantial. So. With this 5 million plus that we're looking

2088
02:38:34,242 --> 02:38:41,182
for. Capital bundling that city manager is alluding to. Well,

2089
02:38:41,182 --> 02:38:46,514
some of that be used. For street urbanization, for sidewalks

2090
02:38:46,514 --> 02:38:50,840
in as well. The missing links, the street urbanization program

2091
02:38:50,840 --> 02:38:55,600
council that is identified. Yes, that includes adding sidewalks in

2092
02:38:55,600 --> 02:38:57,720
most of the ones that we have done do not

2093
02:38:57,720 --> 02:39:02,563
have sidewalks. Some do, but the ones. For example, down

2094
02:39:02,563 --> 02:39:05,961
in Morrison this year, that. We did. We just had

2095
02:39:05,961 --> 02:39:09,041
gravel soak away shoulders and onto front yard. So that

2096
02:39:09,041 --> 02:39:12,761
did add sidewalk along both sides. We've also added sidewalks

2097
02:39:12,761 --> 02:39:18,596
where we've retrofitted. Roads after other types of improvements that

2098
02:39:18,596 --> 02:39:21,116
we've done. So it's a variety of ways that we

2099
02:39:21,116 --> 02:39:24,116
have not only had a dedicated sidewalk program, but incorporate

2100
02:39:24,116 --> 02:39:26,756
sidewalks and other capital projects. That we've done. I think

2101
02:39:26,756 --> 02:39:29,996
you're familiar with the Klo bridge, and on the west

2102
02:39:29,996 --> 02:39:31,916
side of the bridge. We added a piece of sidewalk

2103
02:39:31,916 --> 02:39:35,133
that connected down towards. The community and the gas station

2104
02:39:35,133 --> 02:39:40,291
that's there at Ben Vulin. Thank you. Access awareness committee.

2105
02:39:40,291 --> 02:39:44,955
Also, they mentioned. Connecting those. Especially those missing links. I

2106
02:39:44,955 --> 02:39:48,675
know our new park at the end of Cedar Avenue

2107
02:39:48,675 --> 02:39:51,115
and. There's a mission group just built a condo, and

2108
02:39:51,115 --> 02:39:55,288
then there's a missing piece. Between. Dandozi. It's half a

2109
02:39:55,288 --> 02:39:58,568
block, but it's for person. That's. With a disability. It

2110
02:39:58,568 --> 02:40:00,808
means the world to them. So we can get those

2111
02:40:00,808 --> 02:40:04,474
missing links. With this street urbanization. That'll be great. Thank

2112
02:40:04,474 --> 02:40:05,954
you. There's one on the other side of that street

2113
02:40:05,954 --> 02:40:11,588
now. Thanks. Thank you. Seeing nothing further. Only, please.

2114
02:40:18,955 --> 02:40:22,475
Okay, so we'll next move into transit, and this is

2115
02:40:22,475 --> 02:40:27,936
on page 205 of your budget. Volume. Thank you, council.

2116
02:40:27,936 --> 02:40:30,696
And similar to transportation, there's been a great deal of

2117
02:40:30,696 --> 02:40:36,676
council emphasis on public transit. And expanding both the service

2118
02:40:36,676 --> 02:40:39,796
and the infrastructure to meet the demands now and into

2119
02:40:39,796 --> 02:40:43,435
the future. Out of the council priorities who have been

2120
02:40:43,435 --> 02:40:48,192
working on in 2025 and. Will be on into 2026

2121
02:40:48,192 --> 02:40:51,952
is to advance the new Kelowna Transit Operations center on

2122
02:40:51,952 --> 02:40:56,669
Hollywood Road. I'm happy to report that that. We have

2123
02:40:56,669 --> 02:40:59,709
preliminary design and updated cost estimates that we've worked with

2124
02:40:59,709 --> 02:41:03,709
BC Transit and infrastructure BC. The design of Hollywood Road

2125
02:41:03,709 --> 02:41:06,709
and the construction of that road is in servicing is

2126
02:41:06,709 --> 02:41:10,429
progressing and that work will start in 2026. So we're

2127
02:41:10,429 --> 02:41:14,509
preparing a shovel ready site and continue. To pursue funding.

2128
02:41:15,889 --> 02:41:20,049
Similarly, to respond to our immediate needs, the administration has

2129
02:41:20,049 --> 02:41:22,929
been working with BC Transit on the expansion. And upgrades

2130
02:41:22,929 --> 02:41:26,729
to the existing operations center at the Hardyards and work

2131
02:41:26,729 --> 02:41:30,900
in that area. As currently expanding the remainance facility, parking

2132
02:41:30,900 --> 02:41:36,180
for increased fleet, and installing of new charging infrastructure for

2133
02:41:36,180 --> 02:41:41,380
the introduction of battery electric buses later in 2026. We're

2134
02:41:41,380 --> 02:41:44,900
well under the way on the construction of four bus

2135
02:41:44,900 --> 02:41:47,860
exchanges. And you may have noticed when we had our

2136
02:41:47,860 --> 02:41:50,849
council to. Tour on Monday when we stopped in Rutland.

2137
02:41:51,997 --> 02:41:53,957
That the bus exchange at the end of that parking

2138
02:41:53,957 --> 02:41:56,357
lot in Rutland is at the landscaping phase. Who were

2139
02:41:56,357 --> 02:42:00,397
effectively complete. And you will see further that we're adding

2140
02:42:00,397 --> 02:42:04,197
another exchange at the airport. That's coming up in a

2141
02:42:04,197 --> 02:42:08,281
couple of years. In addition to those major improvements, we're

2142
02:42:08,281 --> 02:42:12,401
continuing to improve individual stops and shelters, and most recently

2143
02:42:12,401 --> 02:42:15,161
focused on the Rutland area. In response to the new

2144
02:42:15,161 --> 02:42:21,589
Rutland service plan. Continuous improvement in 2026. We'll continue to

2145
02:42:21,589 --> 02:42:24,189
work with BC Transit to improve transit service. In a

2146
02:42:24,189 --> 02:42:30,193
variety of ways. The recently introduced UMO electronic fare payment

2147
02:42:30,193 --> 02:42:32,713
system will continue to be expanded to include some of

2148
02:42:32,713 --> 02:42:36,913
the special fair products currently approved and planned for the

2149
02:42:36,913 --> 02:42:41,113
community. Those include working with community partners who roll those

2150
02:42:41,113 --> 02:42:44,233
programs out. And council will be seeing a report early

2151
02:42:44,233 --> 02:42:48,456
in the new year talking about special fares. We're working

2152
02:42:48,456 --> 02:42:52,296
with the Ministry of Transportation in transit to design transit

2153
02:42:52,296 --> 02:42:56,136
service improvements along Highway 97, and we anticipate coming back

2154
02:42:56,136 --> 02:43:00,656
to council early in 2026 to discuss these improvements. In

2155
02:43:00,656 --> 02:43:04,056
detail. Those will be things such as transit priority measures

2156
02:43:04,056 --> 02:43:08,663
along the highway quarter. And following on from council's recent

2157
02:43:08,663 --> 02:43:11,343
approval of transit support of land use plan along the

2158
02:43:11,343 --> 02:43:18,503
Richter corridor. Transportation, integrated transportation will be bringing back. A

2159
02:43:18,503 --> 02:43:22,703
detailed plan for protecting the right of way to realize

2160
02:43:22,703 --> 02:43:26,983
a transit service improvement plan along that corridor. And finally,

2161
02:43:26,983 --> 02:43:29,663
I would like to highlight that the on demand transit

2162
02:43:29,663 --> 02:43:32,023
service that was introduced as a trial in the Crawford

2163
02:43:32,023 --> 02:43:36,122
neighborhood. It was the first trial in British Columbia. Was

2164
02:43:36,122 --> 02:43:39,722
a success, and that trial is continuing, and BC transit

2165
02:43:39,722 --> 02:43:42,362
is planning to expand this type of service in Colonia

2166
02:43:42,362 --> 02:43:48,697
in 2026. The most important performance metrics for transit is

2167
02:43:48,697 --> 02:43:51,737
ridership, and that is performance metric number one. Showing the

2168
02:43:51,737 --> 02:43:55,537
per capita number of people that are utilizing the service,

2169
02:43:55,537 --> 02:43:59,846
we are making steady progress. But we have a long

2170
02:43:59,846 --> 02:44:03,806
way to go towards our 2040 goal, and that demonstrates

2171
02:44:03,806 --> 02:44:09,686
that continuing to invest in additional capacity and improved service

2172
02:44:09,686 --> 02:44:15,027
is warranted. Performance. Metric two demonstrates how satisfied people are

2173
02:44:15,027 --> 02:44:17,827
with our service, and that's usually a combination. Of. Are

2174
02:44:17,827 --> 02:44:21,027
we reliably, are we coming on time? Is the bus

2175
02:44:21,027 --> 02:44:24,347
clean? And do they feel safe on our service. So

2176
02:44:24,347 --> 02:44:26,587
I'm glad to see that we have a steadily increasing

2177
02:44:26,587 --> 02:44:30,522
performance there. Performance metric three is one of those service

2178
02:44:30,522 --> 02:44:33,322
and satisfaction is how reliable are we at getting to

2179
02:44:33,322 --> 02:44:37,440
that stop on time, and this is typically. Early in

2180
02:44:37,440 --> 02:44:40,120
the day. Are we hitting that stock when somebody's waiting

2181
02:44:40,120 --> 02:44:42,440
to go to work? Where they have a tremendous sensitivity

2182
02:44:42,440 --> 02:44:46,680
to being on time. And finally, performance metric four is

2183
02:44:46,680 --> 02:44:50,120
a measure for counsel on how much are we investing

2184
02:44:50,120 --> 02:44:54,922
overall? And we have been making a considerable increase here

2185
02:44:54,922 --> 02:44:58,362
over the last couple of years and working well. Towards

2186
02:44:58,362 --> 02:45:01,442
our target of 1.28 hours of service per capita, which

2187
02:45:01,442 --> 02:45:04,362
is about a 9%. Gap that we have between next

2188
02:45:04,362 --> 02:45:06,442
year and our target in two years from now. So

2189
02:45:06,442 --> 02:45:09,242
we're making great progress there, and I will now turn

2190
02:45:09,242 --> 02:45:15,418
it back to the champion of finance. Mel. Thank you,

2191
02:45:15,418 --> 02:45:24,398
max. The transit surface area has a $53.6 million. Expenditure

2192
02:45:24,398 --> 02:45:27,758
budget for 2026 and it is operated under three different

2193
02:45:27,758 --> 02:45:33,116
cost centers. The service area is funded predominantly from grants.

2194
02:45:34,901 --> 02:45:37,701
This included in here is the provincial contribution for the

2195
02:45:37,701 --> 02:45:41,701
transit contract, as well as property taxes, fees. And charges

2196
02:45:41,701 --> 02:45:48,932
transfers from reserves and other revenues. The 2025 revised budget

2197
02:45:48,932 --> 02:45:57,114
is $44,069,000. And after annualizing previously approved budget requests, we

2198
02:45:57,114 --> 02:46:03,327
will start the 2026 year at 40,080,000. To maintain current

2199
02:46:03,327 --> 02:46:09,367
service levels, an additional $10,408,000 is being requested and to

2200
02:46:09,367 --> 02:46:18,036
enhance service levels, an additional 3,130,000. The service area has

2201
02:46:18,036 --> 02:46:23,396
three operating requests. These are on pages 212 and 213

2202
02:46:23,396 --> 02:46:27,556
of your budget volume. First one being the Hollywood Transit

2203
02:46:27,556 --> 02:46:32,476
center. Phase two, planning a one time request of $125,000

2204
02:46:32,476 --> 02:46:38,996
funded from reserve. Second is the Orchard Park Transit exchange.

2205
02:46:38,996 --> 02:46:44,556
Security. This is it. For requests for $50,000. In 2026,

2206
02:46:44,556 --> 02:46:50,956
increasing to 60,000 in 2027. Ongoing, funded from taxation and

2207
02:46:50,956 --> 02:46:55,116
then transit. Operations. This is the enhancement for the year

2208
02:46:55,116 --> 02:47:02,167
at 2 million. $654,000 ongoing. This is funded in 2026.

2209
02:47:03,935 --> 02:47:07,735
Through funding from the province at about approximately 50% of

2210
02:47:07,735 --> 02:47:14,279
the contract amount. We will use additional funding. From. Tickets

2211
02:47:14,279 --> 02:47:17,799
and sales on bus routes, as well as a one

2212
02:47:17,799 --> 02:47:24,854
time use of reserve funding. Of one point. 26 from

2213
02:47:24,854 --> 02:47:28,894
the province, which is residual grant money that has been

2214
02:47:28,894 --> 02:47:34,043
being held by BC Transit. The ongoing impact in 2027.

2215
02:47:34,043 --> 02:47:40,927
Ongoing is $1.2 million of taxation. The service area is

2216
02:47:40,927 --> 02:47:46,007
2026. Capital program is in complete alignment with the council

2217
02:47:46,007 --> 02:47:50,087
approved ten year capital plan. Is there any priority one

2218
02:47:50,087 --> 02:47:57,448
request that council would like to discuss? Councilor Lovegrove. Questions?

2219
02:47:57,448 --> 02:48:06,120
Yes. Actually. I'm just looking at the performance indicators.

2220
02:48:08,558 --> 02:48:12,918
That Mr. Logan shared with us, and I'm looking to

2221
02:48:12,918 --> 02:48:20,036
see no change in. Not ridership. Sorry. Transit service hours

2222
02:48:20,036 --> 02:48:25,628
per capita, but in effect. Those would be expected to

2223
02:48:25,628 --> 02:48:34,764
go up. This? Page 207. Actual is 1.6. 25 estimate

2224
02:48:34,764 --> 02:48:38,918
1.6 but with population growth. Does that imply we've got

2225
02:48:38,918 --> 02:48:43,309
a service hour increase there or not? For 24 to

2226
02:48:43,309 --> 02:48:46,469
25, our service level did increase, but it only kept

2227
02:48:46,469 --> 02:48:49,709
pace with our population growth. And the service level increase

2228
02:48:49,709 --> 02:48:52,429
that we have in this year's budget will exceed population

2229
02:48:52,429 --> 02:48:55,124
growth. So we have a net increase. And that actually

2230
02:48:55,124 --> 02:48:56,724
leads me to my question, because I was trying to

2231
02:48:56,724 --> 02:49:01,421
figure out. Where that is under the maintain operating request.

2232
02:49:02,986 --> 02:49:06,678
And I don't see it because. The one. Transit operations

2233
02:49:06,678 --> 02:49:11,947
enhance. Doesn't talk about service hour increases. So where is

2234
02:49:11,947 --> 02:49:20,240
service hour increases for 2026? Thank you, worship. The contract.

2235
02:49:21,556 --> 02:49:25,758
For the transit. If it is just to pay for

2236
02:49:25,758 --> 02:49:29,193
the current contract that we have in place. It is

2237
02:49:29,193 --> 02:49:31,673
not put in as a council budget request for discussion.

2238
02:49:33,272 --> 02:49:36,912
If you look on page 210 of your budget volume,

2239
02:49:36,912 --> 02:49:40,712
you'll see a maintaining service line. Or column, I should

2240
02:49:40,712 --> 02:49:43,912
say sorry. And so in that case, it's a contract

2241
02:49:43,912 --> 02:49:49,602
that we. Are already committed to doing. Okay. Thank you

2242
02:49:49,602 --> 02:49:53,713
very much. You've just reduced my concern. Thank you greatly.

2243
02:49:53,713 --> 02:49:56,113
But then the other thing that you mentioned. In your

2244
02:49:56,113 --> 02:49:59,193
key accomplishments for 2025, Mr. Logan, was you now have

2245
02:49:59,193 --> 02:50:02,978
a preliminary design. Can we share that with council? Is

2246
02:50:02,978 --> 02:50:05,178
that a public number? The cost estimate for the new

2247
02:50:05,178 --> 02:50:09,098
transit. Op center. It is not a public number, but

2248
02:50:09,098 --> 02:50:11,778
we are planning to bring an update report back to

2249
02:50:11,778 --> 02:50:15,178
council. Early in 2026. I'm excited. I'm sure you can

2250
02:50:15,178 --> 02:50:24,943
tell. Your worship. Thank you for that. I think. That

2251
02:50:24,943 --> 02:50:29,143
is fantastic. Thank you, worship. Councilor Dehart, please. Thank you,

2252
02:50:29,143 --> 02:50:32,063
worship. I do have a. Question on Orchard park transit

2253
02:50:32,063 --> 02:50:33,903
and then a comment on it, too. Can I do

2254
02:50:33,903 --> 02:50:37,802
them both together? Please. Okay. Thank you. So, Mac, just

2255
02:50:37,802 --> 02:50:43,324
wondering. On the Orchard park transit exchange improvements, There is

2256
02:50:43,324 --> 02:50:45,844
no ten year agreement in place with Orchard park. So

2257
02:50:45,844 --> 02:50:48,564
my question is, should we be? Working towards one or

2258
02:50:48,564 --> 02:50:51,244
why don't we have one? Or what's going to happen?

2259
02:50:51,244 --> 02:50:55,004
There because you did list it right in the comments.

2260
02:50:55,004 --> 02:50:57,684
Just a little concern about that. It's a variety of

2261
02:50:57,684 --> 02:51:01,560
things going on at the Orchard park right now. The

2262
02:51:01,560 --> 02:51:06,320
operation. You'll see a transit exchange line item for operating,

2263
02:51:06,320 --> 02:51:11,440
for security. That's to enhance the security in that location

2264
02:51:11,440 --> 02:51:14,000
outside of the regular operating hours of the mall. So

2265
02:51:14,000 --> 02:51:19,972
we've agreed to do that. With respect. To. The reconstruction

2266
02:51:19,972 --> 02:51:25,048
of the exchange. As you may be aware, Orchard Park

2267
02:51:25,048 --> 02:51:30,077
Mall. Hasn't really come up with a plan on how

2268
02:51:30,077 --> 02:51:32,437
they want to redevelop. Their mall in the near term,

2269
02:51:32,437 --> 02:51:34,757
and given the fact that they've lost the tenant, that's

2270
02:51:34,757 --> 02:51:38,837
directly adjacent to this area. We recognize that there may

2271
02:51:38,837 --> 02:51:41,807
be a lot of work. By that landowner on how

2272
02:51:41,807 --> 02:51:45,198
they want to redevelop that part of the mall. So

2273
02:51:45,198 --> 02:51:47,918
while we do see the need and the desire to

2274
02:51:47,918 --> 02:51:51,718
improve that transit exchange, we are being patient and waiting

2275
02:51:51,718 --> 02:51:53,358
until they have a better sense of what they want

2276
02:51:53,358 --> 02:51:55,918
to do on their property. Okay. That's great. Well, thank

2277
02:51:55,918 --> 02:51:58,278
you. And I'm in that area a lot, but. I

2278
02:51:58,278 --> 02:52:01,358
was really happy to see the Orchard Park Trans exchange

2279
02:52:01,358 --> 02:52:05,323
security because I do go by there. A lot. Since

2280
02:52:05,323 --> 02:52:07,923
the bay is closed, to which you just commented on,

2281
02:52:07,923 --> 02:52:11,323
I do see a lot of activity. Around there, and

2282
02:52:11,323 --> 02:52:13,963
I think it's really good that you're getting the additional

2283
02:52:13,963 --> 02:52:18,523
security. Because like I said, I do notice a lot

2284
02:52:18,523 --> 02:52:21,323
of movement, and there are a lot of people around

2285
02:52:21,323 --> 02:52:23,643
there at all hours of the day and night, so

2286
02:52:23,643 --> 02:52:25,803
just very happy to see that. Thank you for your

2287
02:52:25,803 --> 02:52:31,916
comments. Thanks. Thank you, Councilor Singh. Questions? Comment. I'll get

2288
02:52:31,916 --> 02:52:36,926
you to hold. Councilor Weber, questions? Yeah. I'm not much

2289
02:52:36,926 --> 02:52:38,326
on p two s, but I want to look at

2290
02:52:38,326 --> 02:52:40,966
the p. Two. That's in this one. The transit fare

2291
02:52:40,966 --> 02:52:46,524
program initiatives. A little while ago, the council voted in

2292
02:52:46,524 --> 02:52:49,284
terms of a BC by plan to increase transit fares

2293
02:52:49,284 --> 02:52:51,884
and councilor Lovegrove, and I voted against it, partly because.

2294
02:52:53,741 --> 02:52:58,581
It affected certain users, seniors and so forth. More they

2295
02:52:58,581 --> 02:53:02,141
were losing some of their discounts or their passes. So

2296
02:53:02,141 --> 02:53:04,901
I'm wondering if that's what this transit fare program initiative

2297
02:53:04,901 --> 02:53:07,421
would cover. It's not very much money. $30,000. So I

2298
02:53:07,421 --> 02:53:10,884
don't know. What it would do. And it has some

2299
02:53:10,884 --> 02:53:16,765
strange wording in here. About. Supporting delivery ups. Referendum triggered

2300
02:53:16,765 --> 02:53:20,389
by the transit faring. I have no idea. To help

2301
02:53:20,389 --> 02:53:28,120
with this. Good morning, Brittany. Good morning. So, your worship.

2302
02:53:29,829 --> 02:53:34,109
That getting the wording right. Transit fare program initiatives. It's

2303
02:53:34,109 --> 02:53:37,309
actually just a supporting budget. Line. So we are already

2304
02:53:37,309 --> 02:53:40,669
undertaking an affordable transit pass study. You'll see that coming

2305
02:53:40,669 --> 02:53:43,549
forward. To you in Q one of next year. We

2306
02:53:43,549 --> 02:53:45,829
actually hope to have it here sooner, but there's been

2307
02:53:45,829 --> 02:53:52,876
a delay. That will recommend. An implementation of that. This

2308
02:53:52,876 --> 02:53:55,396
was just funding in case we needed to support some

2309
02:53:55,396 --> 02:53:58,156
of the partners that are helping us. To administrate the

2310
02:53:58,156 --> 02:54:02,573
program. But we do have other means in which to

2311
02:54:02,573 --> 02:54:05,693
support them. So that is why it has become a

2312
02:54:05,693 --> 02:54:08,773
p two. But it does not stop anything from the

2313
02:54:08,773 --> 02:54:12,629
program moving forward. If the PT wasn't added, the program

2314
02:54:12,629 --> 02:54:15,789
could still move forward. Yes? Correct. Okay, then I'll leave

2315
02:54:15,789 --> 02:54:19,669
it at that. Thank you. Thank you. Councilor stack, please.

2316
02:54:19,669 --> 02:54:23,029
Thank you. I have two questions. One is just regarding

2317
02:54:23,029 --> 02:54:30,613
the transit exchange improvements. We're doing mission Okinawagan College. Orchard

2318
02:54:30,613 --> 02:54:33,933
park. But it's quite significant money. And I have two

2319
02:54:33,933 --> 02:54:36,613
questions. One, why is it a grant? And why do

2320
02:54:36,613 --> 02:54:39,133
we get a grant for that? And my second question

2321
02:54:39,133 --> 02:54:41,973
is, why is it so expensive? Because we have upgraded.

2322
02:54:43,250 --> 02:54:45,730
These transit locations in the past, and it seems like

2323
02:54:45,730 --> 02:54:49,570
every few years there's another very large cost to upgrade

2324
02:54:49,570 --> 02:54:53,035
them once again and. I just am a little puzzled

2325
02:54:53,035 --> 02:54:56,595
why it keeps coming up. Councilor, thank you for the

2326
02:54:56,595 --> 02:54:59,755
question. Councilor stack through the chair that is the mission

2327
02:54:59,755 --> 02:55:03,776
exchange and. The grant funding is ISIP funding. It's federal

2328
02:55:03,776 --> 02:55:08,916
government funding. So that's what's been supporting our transit exchange

2329
02:55:08,916 --> 02:55:14,928
program. The mission recreation transit exchange. Is in some ways,

2330
02:55:14,928 --> 02:55:19,395
combined with. The work that we're doing to expand the

2331
02:55:19,395 --> 02:55:23,608
h 20 facility and also the activity center. At the

2332
02:55:23,608 --> 02:55:28,622
mission as well. We're reconstructing the whole bus loop we're

2333
02:55:28,622 --> 02:55:34,757
introducing. A new intersection along. Glenmore Road to access and

2334
02:55:34,757 --> 02:55:37,477
egress the site because we're taking the public access off

2335
02:55:37,477 --> 02:55:41,171
of the driveway that's closest to the H 20. So.

2336
02:55:42,604 --> 02:55:44,964
There's more work outside of just the actual area where

2337
02:55:44,964 --> 02:55:47,244
the buses are stopping, so you're moving it over to

2338
02:55:47,244 --> 02:55:49,404
Gordon, I think. Is that what you're saying? We're adding

2339
02:55:49,404 --> 02:55:53,302
another intersection farther to the south. We're reconfiguring the parking

2340
02:55:53,302 --> 02:55:57,669
lot. For the MNP center, and so there's some bigger

2341
02:55:57,669 --> 02:56:01,612
improvements in that area, plus. Expanding some of the sidewalk

2342
02:56:01,612 --> 02:56:06,012
and boulevards around both facilities that are adjacent to the

2343
02:56:06,012 --> 02:56:09,652
bus exchange it's really interesting because I remember many years

2344
02:56:09,652 --> 02:56:12,012
ago, one of our mayors pushed really hard to make

2345
02:56:12,012 --> 02:56:13,492
sure that the buses went right in front of the

2346
02:56:13,492 --> 02:56:15,772
h two center and took them. Off, Gordon. And now

2347
02:56:15,772 --> 02:56:17,412
we're spending money to take them out of there and

2348
02:56:17,412 --> 02:56:20,565
put them back onto Gordon, so hopefully. This will be

2349
02:56:20,565 --> 02:56:25,285
the winter combination for our bus stop council. We're keeping

2350
02:56:25,285 --> 02:56:29,085
them on the site. Yeah. Okay, my second question is,

2351
02:56:29,085 --> 02:56:31,165
and I guess obviously these grants are a great opportunity

2352
02:56:31,165 --> 02:56:32,485
for. Us to upgrade them. I think that's what I'm

2353
02:56:32,485 --> 02:56:34,925
hearing between the lines is. The funds were available through

2354
02:56:34,925 --> 02:56:37,245
the federal programs, we might as well use them effectively.

2355
02:56:37,245 --> 02:56:39,885
Is that fair? To say we want to maximize the

2356
02:56:39,885 --> 02:56:42,646
use of those. Funds. Yes, council, my second question goes

2357
02:56:42,646 --> 02:56:47,406
back to page 210, which is regarding to the preliminary

2358
02:56:47,406 --> 02:56:51,886
budget. And the fees and charges on that projection for

2359
02:56:51,886 --> 02:56:57,326
2026 is 9,000,605. Am I correct in assuming that's transit

2360
02:56:57,326 --> 02:57:01,540
fares, essentially? The nature of my question is I know

2361
02:57:01,540 --> 02:57:06,260
our objective was to claim approximately 25% to 30%. Of

2362
02:57:06,260 --> 02:57:09,860
our revenue in bus fares. But when I do the

2363
02:57:09,860 --> 02:57:12,340
calculation of the total revenue budget, it only comes out

2364
02:57:12,340 --> 02:57:19,198
to 17%, so I'm probably missing something. Thank you, worship.

2365
02:57:19,198 --> 02:57:25,125
Yes, I do believe. Those are directly related to transit

2366
02:57:25,125 --> 02:57:33,950
fair revenues. I'm guessing right now. But. This is a

2367
02:57:33,950 --> 02:57:37,190
holistic budget of everything that's included in transit. Not just

2368
02:57:37,190 --> 02:57:40,790
the transit. Contract, so that could be the difference in

2369
02:57:40,790 --> 02:57:44,870
the percentage. There's also advertising council. Yes, it's a small

2370
02:57:44,870 --> 02:57:47,790
amount of advertising revenue. Yes, and, councilor, I'm just also

2371
02:57:47,790 --> 02:57:50,030
going to ask potentially the city manager just kind of

2372
02:57:50,030 --> 02:57:52,030
comment on that because you just raised a point. With

2373
02:57:52,030 --> 02:57:54,249
regards to the operational overall oper. Operational aspect of it.

2374
02:57:55,858 --> 02:57:57,018
Yeah. Thank you, your worship. And there may be others,

2375
02:57:57,018 --> 02:58:00,200
Mac or Joe, who want to weigh in. But. As

2376
02:58:00,200 --> 02:58:03,600
a heavily subsidized service, and we only target a small

2377
02:58:03,600 --> 02:58:06,880
percentage of revenue recovery. Associated with this service. We are

2378
02:58:06,880 --> 02:58:10,746
looking at opportunities to do more with that. Although the

2379
02:58:10,746 --> 02:58:15,597
expansion of the service in the garage. And other aspects

2380
02:58:15,597 --> 02:58:17,517
of the service as it grows into the future, will

2381
02:58:17,517 --> 02:58:22,221
continue to have heavy tax associated funding. Councilor. Just one

2382
02:58:22,221 --> 02:58:24,381
moment. I'm just going to get clarification. If there's. Anything

2383
02:58:24,381 --> 02:58:26,741
to add, Mr. Logan or Mr. Sass, with regards to

2384
02:58:26,741 --> 02:58:30,501
that, because there's always that question that comes with regards

2385
02:58:30,501 --> 02:58:33,781
to when we're looking at providing these particular services. What

2386
02:58:33,781 --> 02:58:36,781
is the city adding? Or what is the city contributing

2387
02:58:36,781 --> 02:58:41,248
towards these? And we know. This is not a profitable

2388
02:58:41,248 --> 02:58:44,929
service. That we're trying to maintain at a level pricing

2389
02:58:44,929 --> 02:58:47,449
range. Just anything to add in that? Particular area. Yeah.

2390
02:58:47,449 --> 02:58:50,595
Thank you. Maybe directly to your question, I believe Mel

2391
02:58:50,595 --> 02:58:53,635
is correct that based on this budget book, there is

2392
02:58:53,635 --> 02:58:55,875
more included in the total cost, which makes the revenue

2393
02:58:55,875 --> 02:58:58,715
as a percentage look lower. But when we have our

2394
02:58:58,715 --> 02:59:01,915
target, and I believe it's 35%, but Mr. Logan can

2395
02:59:01,915 --> 02:59:04,875
correct me if. I'm wrong around transit fair recovery, which

2396
02:59:04,875 --> 02:59:09,226
would have different costs included. Not all of the. Overall

2397
02:59:09,226 --> 02:59:12,026
supports within the transit area are included in that cost

2398
02:59:12,026 --> 02:59:14,586
recovery calculation. So that's why it looks lower than you'd

2399
02:59:14,586 --> 02:59:18,226
anticipated. Thank you, councilor. Thank you. I just want to.

2400
02:59:18,226 --> 02:59:22,888
Make sure that at least our objectives of collecting. Has

2401
02:59:22,888 --> 02:59:26,408
not been diminished. In other words, we're still working toward

2402
02:59:26,408 --> 02:59:29,368
a particular goal because even in this particular one, the

2403
02:59:29,368 --> 02:59:32,888
fares, fees and charges are 9.6 million, but the property

2404
02:59:32,888 --> 02:59:36,496
tax hit is 14 million. I just want to emphasize,

2405
02:59:36,496 --> 02:59:41,203
because often we're saying, hey, we need better transit. But.

2406
02:59:42,248 --> 02:59:44,008
What we're saying is the general taxpayer in the city

2407
02:59:44,008 --> 02:59:46,168
is paying for more transit and the users are paying

2408
02:59:46,168 --> 02:59:48,952
less and less as a percentage of it. The trend,

2409
02:59:48,952 --> 02:59:50,992
if I'm seeing it, is concerning me a little bit

2410
02:59:50,992 --> 02:59:54,693
and I just flag it for future consideration. Thank you.

2411
02:59:55,811 --> 02:59:59,411
More questions. Councilor Wolverich, please. Thanks, Arisha. I can't help

2412
02:59:59,411 --> 03:00:01,771
but jump. In with a comment on this because we

2413
03:00:01,771 --> 03:00:05,811
often talk about transit being heavily subsidized. And it's a

2414
03:00:05,811 --> 03:00:09,491
bugbear for me because snow removal, repairing our roads, also

2415
03:00:09,491 --> 03:00:15,055
very tax heavily subsidized as well. So we often talk

2416
03:00:15,055 --> 03:00:20,291
about cost recovery on transit. But we subsidize a lot

2417
03:00:20,291 --> 03:00:23,211
of other maintenance in the city that is also taxpayer

2418
03:00:23,211 --> 03:00:24,811
subsidized, so we also have to keep that in mind.

2419
03:00:26,799 --> 03:00:28,279
I have to mention that because it's a bugbear of

2420
03:00:28,279 --> 03:00:30,399
mine when we continue. To go back to that narrative.

2421
03:00:30,399 --> 03:00:36,183
Thank you. Councilor Cannon. Questions? Just the supplemental. I know

2422
03:00:36,183 --> 03:00:38,303
the target is 35%, but what are we? Running out

2423
03:00:38,303 --> 03:00:42,533
of boat rail. Do we know? We're in the mid

2424
03:00:42,533 --> 03:00:49,300
twenty s, I believe. Thank you. Councilor love. Councilor saying

2425
03:00:49,300 --> 03:00:52,671
you had a comment. Just 1 second. Do you have

2426
03:00:52,671 --> 03:01:00,293
a question? Just. Okay, please. Okay, so I wonder, given

2427
03:01:00,293 --> 03:01:04,401
councilor Stack's question, And it seems to come up regularly.

2428
03:01:05,791 --> 03:01:09,087
If we could add that as a performance factor. Fair

2429
03:01:09,087 --> 03:01:12,047
recovery. I mean, our target is 35%. We ask it

2430
03:01:12,047 --> 03:01:14,247
all the time, and I don't. Know if that's something

2431
03:01:14,247 --> 03:01:16,607
we want to state publicly, but we're asking. It anyways

2432
03:01:16,607 --> 03:01:19,887
publicly. Maybe we can add it. Thank you. That was

2433
03:01:19,887 --> 03:01:23,687
okay. Appreciate that. So, seeing no further questions. Councilor Singh,

2434
03:01:23,687 --> 03:01:26,127
you had a comment? Thank you, but I just want

2435
03:01:26,127 --> 03:01:30,458
to go. Back to the Orchard park trans. Transit exchange

2436
03:01:30,458 --> 03:01:35,701
security. Really appreciate that because. It's up till midnight. There

2437
03:01:35,701 --> 03:01:37,901
are a lot of young people who work in the

2438
03:01:37,901 --> 03:01:42,501
service. Industry who use that transit exchange, and it's important

2439
03:01:42,501 --> 03:01:47,803
to have that assurance of safety. If there's any opportunity

2440
03:01:47,803 --> 03:01:50,643
of it going further into the night wind, buses stop.

2441
03:01:52,631 --> 03:02:00,805
Sorry, that turned into a question. Brittany, please. Your worship

2442
03:02:00,805 --> 03:02:04,165
bus is at the Orchard Park Exchange run until 01:00

2443
03:02:04,165 --> 03:02:08,325
a.m. on weekdays and until midnight on Sundays. Right. So

2444
03:02:08,325 --> 03:02:12,205
that's why the recommendation, and we were balancing those hours.

2445
03:02:12,205 --> 03:02:14,925
Thank you. So I just want to say appreciate that,

2446
03:02:14,925 --> 03:02:17,085
because I know a lot of young people who are

2447
03:02:17,085 --> 03:02:21,892
there taking a bus home. Thank you. Thank. You. Do

2448
03:02:21,892 --> 03:02:24,412
you have a question or a comment? Just a comment.

2449
03:02:24,412 --> 03:02:28,292
Just on getting the fair recovery at the box. I

2450
03:02:28,292 --> 03:02:31,332
know it's a challenge for the drivers of talk to

2451
03:02:31,332 --> 03:02:35,292
them, but I've also heard from residents. Even city staff

2452
03:02:35,292 --> 03:02:39,657
member came to me and said that. They pay their

2453
03:02:39,657 --> 03:02:41,537
monthly fee, but they see a lot of people go

2454
03:02:41,537 --> 03:02:45,012
on the bus without paying. And I don't know if

2455
03:02:45,012 --> 03:02:50,379
that's responsibility or who's enforcing. That's a conversation I put

2456
03:02:50,379 --> 03:02:54,539
out there maybe for a management decision or discussion, because

2457
03:02:54,539 --> 03:02:58,043
it isn't fair for people that. Are law buying, paying.

2458
03:02:58,907 --> 03:03:01,827
Following the rules and contributing where others just decide to

2459
03:03:01,827 --> 03:03:05,147
walk on and go pay. Thank you so. This is

2460
03:03:05,147 --> 03:03:09,382
just comment. Councilor, comment, please. Thank you. I just want

2461
03:03:09,382 --> 03:03:12,582
to give a shout out to our team here. As

2462
03:03:12,582 --> 03:03:16,365
well as our drivers. And councilor Cannon's last comment is

2463
03:03:16,365 --> 03:03:20,322
a really good comment. And I have to confess, when

2464
03:03:20,322 --> 03:03:23,677
my yumo card had a hiccup, And I've asked for

2465
03:03:23,677 --> 03:03:26,517
it in lieu of a parking stall at city hall.

2466
03:03:26,517 --> 03:03:29,677
The drivers did not strictly enforce me getting on the

2467
03:03:29,677 --> 03:03:31,997
bus. I mean, I was waving. I was trying to.

2468
03:03:31,997 --> 03:03:34,517
Say I'm so sorry. I could have paid cash, but

2469
03:03:34,517 --> 03:03:37,397
I knew I had that, so. I think there's a

2470
03:03:37,397 --> 03:03:41,438
balance in there. It's pretty good. I've heard that 3%

2471
03:03:41,438 --> 03:03:45,478
is typical. A fair evasion rate. That's typical. It's hard

2472
03:03:45,478 --> 03:03:48,518
to get that lower unless we had stricter enforcement. But

2473
03:03:48,518 --> 03:03:52,198
just two things. Councilor Singh raised the transit exchange security.

2474
03:03:52,198 --> 03:03:54,318
I love that. And guess what? It's not. Just young

2475
03:03:54,318 --> 03:03:58,653
people. There's old people, all people that benefit from that.

2476
03:03:58,653 --> 03:04:01,613
So thank you for complimentary team. For jumping on that.

2477
03:04:01,613 --> 03:04:04,133
Thank you very much. And then just one last comment

2478
03:04:04,133 --> 03:04:10,369
regarding councilor Wolfage's. Comment. Transit is a social determinant of

2479
03:04:10,369 --> 03:04:14,649
health. It is an act of transportation mode, and absolutely

2480
03:04:14,649 --> 03:04:18,689
just like snow clearing and everything else keeps us healthy.

2481
03:04:18,689 --> 03:04:21,569
And we need to do this. This is. A cost

2482
03:04:21,569 --> 03:04:25,209
effective service that benefits the whole community. Because one more

2483
03:04:25,209 --> 03:04:26,969
person on a bus or one more person on a

2484
03:04:26,969 --> 03:04:29,846
bike or one more person. A sidewalk. There's one less

2485
03:04:29,846 --> 03:04:33,985
person in a car in front of you. Comment. Councilor

2486
03:04:33,985 --> 03:04:36,025
Stack, I know you want one more comment, you're welcome.

2487
03:04:39,120 --> 03:04:40,480
Through the board, and it just will light back up

2488
03:04:40,480 --> 03:04:41,960
and throw it out through the word light. Back up.

2489
03:04:44,892 --> 03:04:47,340
I can see his eye right there. Okay, let's go.

2490
03:04:49,202 --> 03:04:55,736
Just. Two brief comments, your worship. Back to councilor Woodbridge.

2491
03:04:55,736 --> 03:04:58,696
Comment? We have a target of 35%, which were falling

2492
03:04:58,696 --> 03:05:01,416
far. Short of. So if the decision is made by

2493
03:05:01,416 --> 03:05:05,376
council that we want to offer much higher subsidized. Transit,

2494
03:05:05,376 --> 03:05:07,496
then we need to make a policy decision of that.

2495
03:05:07,496 --> 03:05:09,296
But at the current time. We just don't ever meet

2496
03:05:09,296 --> 03:05:12,016
our objectives. So then it means if we want to.

2497
03:05:12,016 --> 03:05:14,951
Change that. We need to relook at our objectives. That's

2498
03:05:14,951 --> 03:05:20,779
my response to that. And the other comment? I just

2499
03:05:20,779 --> 03:05:23,619
wanted to wait on councilor Lovegrove and cannons comment about

2500
03:05:23,619 --> 03:05:27,322
fair evasion. I also have. A citizen reach out to

2501
03:05:27,322 --> 03:05:30,642
me. And they're very concerned that the fair evasion is

2502
03:05:30,642 --> 03:05:33,442
far, far higher than we might think. And he had

2503
03:05:33,442 --> 03:05:35,442
asked us to look into this, and I. Indicated. I

2504
03:05:35,442 --> 03:05:39,183
would raise that with the city manager. As an inquiry,

2505
03:05:39,183 --> 03:05:41,503
but I have heard that we've heard that, obviously from

2506
03:05:41,503 --> 03:05:44,303
multiple sources that there seems to be quite a bit

2507
03:05:44,303 --> 03:05:46,503
abuse in the far Ab asian area and that it

2508
03:05:46,503 --> 03:05:50,063
needs some attention to determine whether that is happening and

2509
03:05:50,063 --> 03:05:52,583
if so, what we should be doing to address it.

2510
03:05:54,135 --> 03:05:56,575
Councilor Weber, please. I give the mayor and aneurysm here

2511
03:05:56,575 --> 03:06:02,326
in a minute. But another one, it just raises the

2512
03:06:02,326 --> 03:06:05,726
question to me in the long run about transit security

2513
03:06:05,726 --> 03:06:08,286
in general and how we may want to look at

2514
03:06:08,286 --> 03:06:13,237
that. Transit cops. I don't know. The stations. The bus

2515
03:06:13,237 --> 03:06:15,437
stops need to be more secure. The buses themselves need

2516
03:06:15,437 --> 03:06:18,443
to move more secure. And then. That would also affect.

2517
03:06:19,955 --> 03:06:22,595
How your percentages of bringing in fares and everything. It

2518
03:06:22,595 --> 03:06:24,475
may just be a long term discussion. We have to

2519
03:06:24,475 --> 03:06:28,162
look at. That's all. Thank you. Thank you. So, in

2520
03:06:28,162 --> 03:06:36,638
closing, Yeah. No. When I asked that question and when

2521
03:06:36,638 --> 03:06:38,878
I brought about that question, I brought it out about

2522
03:06:38,878 --> 03:06:43,118
for a specific reason. And yesterday when we went out

2523
03:06:43,118 --> 03:06:44,758
first thing in the morning and we're at Stewart park

2524
03:06:44,758 --> 03:06:46,838
and opened up Stewart park alongside the food bank and

2525
03:06:46,838 --> 03:06:50,078
the Salvation army, an individual came up to me and

2526
03:06:50,078 --> 03:06:55,172
stated how grateful they were that the city. Opened up

2527
03:06:55,172 --> 03:07:00,448
Stewart park at no cost. So that residents, whether, depending

2528
03:07:00,448 --> 03:07:02,648
upon their financial situation, we're able to kind of go

2529
03:07:02,648 --> 03:07:04,768
down. At Stewart park and enjoy the skate with them

2530
03:07:04,768 --> 03:07:06,608
and their families. And he was so grateful over the

2531
03:07:06,608 --> 03:07:08,968
years. And one of the reasons why I brought that

2532
03:07:08,968 --> 03:07:11,448
up, and yes, it goes to our snow plowing. And

2533
03:07:11,448 --> 03:07:13,728
yes, it goes to those other items, but it also

2534
03:07:13,728 --> 03:07:16,488
goes to the positive. Aspect of that we recognize there

2535
03:07:16,488 --> 03:07:19,712
is a need to maintain. This particular service within our

2536
03:07:19,712 --> 03:07:23,992
community, but we subsidize it and we subsidize and sometimes

2537
03:07:23,992 --> 03:07:26,512
that's not recognized that we subsidize it. And yes, we

2538
03:07:26,512 --> 03:07:28,312
have a target that we want to get to at

2539
03:07:28,312 --> 03:07:30,832
some particular point in time, and we'll work towards that.

2540
03:07:30,832 --> 03:07:34,352
But that's an operational cost that we pay through taxation

2541
03:07:34,352 --> 03:07:36,952
and through other items to subsidize that, like we do

2542
03:07:36,952 --> 03:07:39,385
with regards to Stewart Park. So it was kind of

2543
03:07:39,385 --> 03:07:42,945
a positive comment and a sense of recognizing what we're

2544
03:07:42,945 --> 03:07:45,705
doing. To kind of subsidize it, that it is an

2545
03:07:45,705 --> 03:07:48,145
expense that we incur, that we do not recover for

2546
03:07:48,145 --> 03:07:50,785
the operational aspect of it, but it is something we're

2547
03:07:50,785 --> 03:07:53,385
working. Towards, but it's also a service within the community.

2548
03:07:53,385 --> 03:07:55,465
But I truly like the trigger points. On all the

2549
03:07:55,465 --> 03:07:59,259
different discussions and went different ways, so truly appreciate. That.

2550
03:07:59,259 --> 03:08:05,063
So in that we're closing. Melanie. So just to counsel

2551
03:08:05,063 --> 03:08:07,903
and to everybody that's here, we're going to go through

2552
03:08:07,903 --> 03:08:10,764
parks. Then we're going to break for lunch. That allows

2553
03:08:10,764 --> 03:08:13,404
Mr. Logan to finish off his section. So we're going

2554
03:08:13,404 --> 03:08:15,324
to continue through parks. And then after that, we will

2555
03:08:15,324 --> 03:08:19,850
break for lunch. Thank you, your worship. So, moving into

2556
03:08:19,850 --> 03:08:25,071
the park service area. This is on page 220 of

2557
03:08:25,071 --> 03:08:31,515
your financial plan. Thank your worship. We will wrap up

2558
03:08:31,515 --> 03:08:36,236
the infrastructure operations. Recap and I would like to highlight.

2559
03:08:37,622 --> 03:08:40,742
That the parks planning team has run out of Derek's

2560
03:08:40,742 --> 03:08:43,542
area and Melanie Stefoon has joined us as well of

2561
03:08:43,542 --> 03:08:47,723
council has questions in that regard. I'd like to highlight

2562
03:08:47,723 --> 03:08:51,443
in 2025, we had a banner year opening the outstanding

2563
03:08:51,443 --> 03:08:56,689
to heart community park the waterfront stage renewal. Improving the

2564
03:08:56,689 --> 03:08:59,809
accessibility of Strathcona park as well as the burn Avenue

2565
03:08:59,809 --> 03:09:03,289
park and Summit parks. Which many members of council were

2566
03:09:03,289 --> 03:09:08,262
at those great community facility openings. Looking forward for the

2567
03:09:08,262 --> 03:09:10,782
next couple of years. We've broken ground on the Parkinson

2568
03:09:10,782 --> 03:09:12,862
rec center. You had to look at where we're at

2569
03:09:12,862 --> 03:09:17,382
with that. It's coming along extremely. Well, glenmore park, phase

2570
03:09:17,382 --> 03:09:21,590
five is well underway. And the tennis dome is under

2571
03:09:21,590 --> 03:09:28,135
construction in southeast Mission Park. We've also opened the upgraded

2572
03:09:28,135 --> 03:09:32,895
lookout on Knox Mountain, which is a tremendous combination of

2573
03:09:32,895 --> 03:09:37,175
public art with an indigenous tone to it and improving

2574
03:09:37,175 --> 03:09:40,535
a very, very popular park in our city and finally.

2575
03:09:42,085 --> 03:09:44,565
We also in Knox Mountain, the team has spent a

2576
03:09:44,565 --> 03:09:47,805
considerable amount of time decommissioning. What we were calling rogue

2577
03:09:47,805 --> 03:09:52,565
trails. And those trails are contributing to soil erosion on

2578
03:09:52,565 --> 03:09:58,061
the hillside. And depleting our natural vegetation. Looking ahead of

2579
03:09:58,061 --> 03:10:00,821
continuous improvements and focusing a little bit more on the

2580
03:10:00,821 --> 03:10:06,257
operation. We have investigated autonomous moors for our secure area

2581
03:10:06,257 --> 03:10:10,806
so that we can reduce our staff complement or. What

2582
03:10:10,806 --> 03:10:13,246
I've noticed is actually the staff go and deliver the

2583
03:10:13,246 --> 03:10:15,286
device and then they go. Off and do something else

2584
03:10:15,286 --> 03:10:19,261
while that device is doing its job. And one of

2585
03:10:19,261 --> 03:10:21,101
those devices that we have in the field now is

2586
03:10:21,101 --> 03:10:24,981
a robotic line painter and we have a second robotic

2587
03:10:24,981 --> 03:10:28,341
line painter coming so that we have redundancy and we

2588
03:10:28,341 --> 03:10:30,221
can ask to do more. That'll be a big help

2589
03:10:30,221 --> 03:10:33,861
next year when we tackle touchdown, Kelowna. And we also.

2590
03:10:35,006 --> 03:10:39,686
Continue to expand our battery powered equipment. And there's two

2591
03:10:39,686 --> 03:10:42,886
reasons for this. First is our environmental goals and objectives

2592
03:10:42,886 --> 03:10:46,406
to reduce gas powered, but they're also a lot quieter.

2593
03:10:46,406 --> 03:10:49,246
And you may have noticed when you're down at city

2594
03:10:49,246 --> 03:10:52,326
hall and the staff are maintaining Stuart Parker or City

2595
03:10:52,326 --> 03:10:55,622
park. How much quieter that equipment is from. Our traditional

2596
03:10:55,622 --> 03:11:00,412
equipment. Looking at some of our performance metrics. Performance metric

2597
03:11:00,412 --> 03:11:04,613
one is around the user satisfaction. I'm very surprised that

2598
03:11:04,613 --> 03:11:07,933
we only have 90% for 2026 estimate. I think with

2599
03:11:07,933 --> 03:11:09,933
everything we're doing, I would expect that number is going

2600
03:11:09,933 --> 03:11:14,501
to increase, not stay constant. We've put a lot of

2601
03:11:14,501 --> 03:11:18,341
emphasis on performance metric number two and keeping our washrooms

2602
03:11:18,341 --> 03:11:24,395
cleaner. It's a public amenity that families, particularly under beaches,

2603
03:11:24,395 --> 03:11:28,235
want, and we've increased. The frequency of service there and

2604
03:11:28,235 --> 03:11:31,235
similarly waste bins. We've done two things we've increased the

2605
03:11:31,235 --> 03:11:34,715
frequency in key areas, and we've also changed out to

2606
03:11:34,715 --> 03:11:37,598
much larger. You see, in the bottom line, we've come

2607
03:11:37,598 --> 03:11:40,798
from 100 liters to 1300 liters. So that we don't

2608
03:11:40,798 --> 03:11:43,358
have to empty the bins in city park five times

2609
03:11:43,358 --> 03:11:47,051
a day. One of the things that people love about

2610
03:11:47,051 --> 03:11:50,771
colon is the number of plants, our planters, our parks,

2611
03:11:50,771 --> 03:11:53,731
the parks around city hall, Stewart park. It's really outstanding

2612
03:11:53,731 --> 03:11:57,211
feature that we do. We're maintaining that service level into

2613
03:11:57,211 --> 03:12:04,360
next year. And finally, tree planning. We are as well,

2614
03:12:04,360 --> 03:12:09,005
maintaining the targets for both. Our neighborhoods, programs and our

2615
03:12:09,005 --> 03:12:12,165
parks planted trees. So again, we're greening up the city.

2616
03:12:12,165 --> 03:12:16,418
And we're working towards. Our targets in that regard. Thank

2617
03:12:16,418 --> 03:12:20,657
you, worship. And I will turn it back to. Mal.

2618
03:12:21,880 --> 03:12:28,876
The park service area. Has an expenditure budget of $80.4

2619
03:12:28,876 --> 03:12:34,636
million and is operated under six different cost centers. This

2620
03:12:34,636 --> 03:12:39,156
service area is predominantly funded from transfers from reserves, property

2621
03:12:39,156 --> 03:12:48,043
taxes, and borrowing. The 2025 revised budget was $86,614,000.

2622
03:12:51,574 --> 03:12:56,014
After annualizing previously approved budget request, the 2026 year will

2623
03:12:56,014 --> 03:13:02,633
start at 20,260,000. The service area to maintain current service

2624
03:13:02,633 --> 03:13:11,051
levels is requesting 48,000,330 7 million. Dollars and to enhance

2625
03:13:11,051 --> 03:13:18,891
service levels, is requesting 11,768,000. This service area has one

2626
03:13:18,891 --> 03:13:23,051
priority one operating request, as well as operating and maintenance

2627
03:13:23,051 --> 03:13:29,060
impacts from their capital program. The one operating request is

2628
03:13:29,060 --> 03:13:32,460
for park maintenance, and it's an increase of 1,063,000. In

2629
03:13:32,460 --> 03:13:40,154
2026. Increasing to 1,089,000 in 2027, then 1,115,000 in

2630
03:13:40,154 --> 03:13:47,097
2028. Ongoing funded from taxation. The

2631
03:13:47,097 --> 03:13:54,126
2026 capital. Plan fully aligned to the council adopted ten

2632
03:13:54,126 --> 03:13:57,086
year capital plan. Is there any request that council would

2633
03:13:57,086 --> 03:14:01,770
like to discuss further. City manager, please. Yeah. Thank you.

2634
03:14:03,529 --> 03:14:05,449
I can just make a quick comment generally about the

2635
03:14:05,449 --> 03:14:10,125
park development program for council gets into questions. Typically, when

2636
03:14:10,125 --> 03:14:14,165
we're advancing or accelerating an area like we have with

2637
03:14:14,165 --> 03:14:17,418
parks, You have to make a trade off discussion between

2638
03:14:17,418 --> 03:14:21,498
quality or quantity. And in our case, we're. Doing both.

2639
03:14:21,498 --> 03:14:23,738
We're doing very, very high quality parks, and we're doing

2640
03:14:23,738 --> 03:14:26,418
a lot of them over the kind of a five

2641
03:14:26,418 --> 03:14:30,280
year window. And it is putting pressure on our operating

2642
03:14:30,280 --> 03:14:33,680
budget. I'm sure Mr. Logan and Mr. Boss could have

2643
03:14:33,680 --> 03:14:36,200
easily doubled this request. And, in fact, I think they

2644
03:14:36,200 --> 03:14:38,200
may have, and we brought it. Back down to what

2645
03:14:38,200 --> 03:14:41,640
we could afford. And to get it to the standard

2646
03:14:41,640 --> 03:14:43,920
that I think this council and this community would like

2647
03:14:43,920 --> 03:14:47,973
to see in terms. Of maintenance in our parks, and

2648
03:14:47,973 --> 03:14:51,133
what's keeping us on track is the innovations that. Mr.

2649
03:14:51,133 --> 03:14:54,493
LoGaN talked about the team is coming up with, through

2650
03:14:54,493 --> 03:14:57,973
their own initiative and passion to do a great job,

2651
03:14:57,973 --> 03:15:00,373
but it is putting pressure on our operating budget. On

2652
03:15:00,373 --> 03:15:03,413
the planning side, the team is well aware of those

2653
03:15:03,413 --> 03:15:06,553
operating pressures as well, and taking great strides. To try

2654
03:15:06,553 --> 03:15:11,970
and create things. That are efficiently operable. In their consistent

2655
03:15:11,970 --> 03:15:15,642
design of new facilities like you're seeing. In the community

2656
03:15:15,642 --> 03:15:19,282
centers for under BSK. By using common fixtures and things

2657
03:15:19,282 --> 03:15:21,362
like that, you'll see that in the washroom program as

2658
03:15:21,362 --> 03:15:24,082
well as we start to develop new washrooms. To see

2659
03:15:24,082 --> 03:15:27,743
a little bit more homogeneous designs with. Commonalities to them

2660
03:15:27,743 --> 03:15:30,863
to reduce operating costs ongoing. So I just wanted to

2661
03:15:30,863 --> 03:15:32,863
let council know. There's a lot of effort in this

2662
03:15:32,863 --> 03:15:36,343
area, but that does create pressure and teams working really

2663
03:15:36,343 --> 03:15:39,143
hard to continue to advance the program at an accelerated

2664
03:15:39,143 --> 03:15:43,305
pace like we're doing, right. Now. Thank you. Questions. Councilor

2665
03:15:43,305 --> 03:15:46,105
Wolverge, please. Thanks for worship. And before I go to

2666
03:15:46,105 --> 03:15:49,225
my question, I just really want to acknowledge performance. Measure

2667
03:15:49,225 --> 03:15:53,897
four, which is the beautification. And high impact areas. This

2668
03:15:53,897 --> 03:15:56,817
was highlighted in our city at work project earlier this

2669
03:15:56,817 --> 03:15:59,737
year and the passion that the parks team brings to

2670
03:15:59,737 --> 03:16:02,737
their work every day in terms of the floral plantings

2671
03:16:02,737 --> 03:16:04,857
and all of the beautification we've seen throughout the city,

2672
03:16:04,857 --> 03:16:07,617
I really have to commend it. Something that's raised often

2673
03:16:07,617 --> 03:16:10,937
to me throughout the year. And that's reflected in that

2674
03:16:10,937 --> 03:16:13,297
performance measure there. So I just really want to acknowledge

2675
03:16:13,297 --> 03:16:15,697
the team for all the hard work that goes into

2676
03:16:15,697 --> 03:16:20,692
that, because residents continually raise that with me. The one

2677
03:16:20,692 --> 03:16:24,252
question that I had was around the capital opportunities and

2678
03:16:24,252 --> 03:16:26,852
partnerships of parks. I know that we've done quite well.

2679
03:16:28,280 --> 03:16:32,480
In the past with our partnerships office on seed funding.

2680
03:16:32,480 --> 03:16:37,006
There's a $500,000 request. And the justification is a little

2681
03:16:37,006 --> 03:16:40,974
bit of a word salad. So I'm wondering if we

2682
03:16:40,974 --> 03:16:43,780
can just have a little bit more clarity around. What

2683
03:16:43,780 --> 03:16:46,500
that fund is to be used for, what the strategy

2684
03:16:46,500 --> 03:16:50,821
is behind it, obviously. It hasn't been identified yet, but

2685
03:16:50,821 --> 03:16:54,832
it's on page 231. And it says the focus of

2686
03:16:54,832 --> 03:16:57,712
the Capital Opportunities Partnership Fund is to leverage funds through

2687
03:16:57,712 --> 03:17:02,898
partnerships to achieve much greater community benefit. To represent a

2688
03:17:02,898 --> 03:17:05,738
significant multiplier of the investment, and so I'm hoping we

2689
03:17:05,738 --> 03:17:09,636
can just get a little bit more clarity on. Good

2690
03:17:09,636 --> 03:17:12,796
afternoon. What that is? Good afternoon, Mr. Edson. Thank you,

2691
03:17:12,796 --> 03:17:16,276
your worship. And to answer council's. Question. This is one

2692
03:17:16,276 --> 03:17:19,476
part of two parts of the partnership fund. The total

2693
03:17:19,476 --> 03:17:25,156
amount is $1.5 million, and these are directed by council.

2694
03:17:26,658 --> 03:17:30,898
To leverage partnership opportunities. So when I come forward with

2695
03:17:30,898 --> 03:17:33,418
my partnerships office, I'll speak to the performance metrics of

2696
03:17:33,418 --> 03:17:35,538
two to one. I believe council regularly refers to that.

2697
03:17:35,538 --> 03:17:37,538
Two to one. Metric, and this is the base funding

2698
03:17:37,538 --> 03:17:40,098
that allows us to do it without the base funding

2699
03:17:40,098 --> 03:17:43,098
in place. We're not able to be nimble and agile

2700
03:17:43,098 --> 03:17:45,778
to have those negotiations and all. Of it will be.

2701
03:17:46,985 --> 03:17:50,105
Negotiated by staff and brought forward to council a couple

2702
03:17:50,105 --> 03:17:53,865
of examples of how council directed those funds. In the

2703
03:17:53,865 --> 03:17:58,025
past year and made some major community investments happen at

2704
03:17:58,025 --> 03:18:00,865
a lower taxation than we would otherwise would see would

2705
03:18:00,865 --> 03:18:04,625
be the Okragon College wellness facility as well as the.

2706
03:18:05,848 --> 03:18:07,928
Tennis dome that has been identified. Those are the two

2707
03:18:07,928 --> 03:18:11,528
significant ones, but it's also available to partner on parks

2708
03:18:11,528 --> 03:18:14,768
development, where a developer could come forward and we could

2709
03:18:14,768 --> 03:18:17,008
see a park delivered. At a lower cost. So all

2710
03:18:17,008 --> 03:18:19,208
of those are brought forward and reported to council, but

2711
03:18:19,208 --> 03:18:21,648
that is. The two to one leverage metric that you

2712
03:18:21,648 --> 03:18:25,030
will see coming forward and. It's a requirement for us

2713
03:18:25,030 --> 03:18:27,190
to be able to activate that program. Thank you, Mr.

2714
03:18:27,190 --> 03:18:29,270
Edstream. And I think that's really important that the public

2715
03:18:29,270 --> 03:18:32,710
understands how those strategic funds are. Used because after the

2716
03:18:32,710 --> 03:18:35,190
fact, they're often very much appreciated. So thank you for

2717
03:18:35,190 --> 03:18:39,510
the explanation. Councilor Dehart, please thank your worship. Yeah, I

2718
03:18:39,510 --> 03:18:42,350
have just a question. On the cook road. Boat launch.

2719
03:18:42,350 --> 03:18:45,039
But just as a prelude, I just. Wanted to comment

2720
03:18:45,039 --> 03:18:49,239
on the manager's, city manager's comments. Completely agree. And just

2721
03:18:49,239 --> 03:18:52,079
wanted to thank Mr. Boss and his team, and we're

2722
03:18:52,079 --> 03:18:56,439
constantly, constantly get kudos and compliments. On parks. I know

2723
03:18:56,439 --> 03:18:58,879
we all do, but I think we should say it

2724
03:18:58,879 --> 03:19:02,668
more often, but. My question is. On the Cook road

2725
03:19:02,668 --> 03:19:07,205
boat launch. I just wanted to know because. There is.

2726
03:19:08,479 --> 03:19:14,740
A substantial. Private operation there that uses the launch extensively.

2727
03:19:14,740 --> 03:19:17,900
Do we get any cost recovery on what we're? Doing

2728
03:19:17,900 --> 03:19:22,249
on this? Because. We see that. I mean, it's constant

2729
03:19:22,249 --> 03:19:26,113
and it's a huge operation, so. I just want clarification.

2730
03:19:27,618 --> 03:19:29,818
On that. And if we are in what they should

2731
03:19:29,818 --> 03:19:34,578
or shouldn't or whatever, I'm going. My answer is yes.

2732
03:19:36,860 --> 03:19:39,220
But I think Derek wants to expand on that. Okay,

2733
03:19:39,220 --> 03:19:41,420
you're correct. For your worship. Yes. We have, and we

2734
03:19:41,420 --> 03:19:43,020
have for a long period of time. We have a

2735
03:19:43,020 --> 03:19:46,900
standing agreement with them. Good. So you feel it's sufficient?

2736
03:19:46,900 --> 03:19:51,395
City is happy with it, we think. We're getting what

2737
03:19:51,395 --> 03:19:53,955
we should because it is a huge operation. Yes, your

2738
03:19:53,955 --> 03:19:58,661
worship, we always transact a fair market value and. They

2739
03:19:58,661 --> 03:20:02,920
have. Been a good partner, I would say, but also

2740
03:20:02,920 --> 03:20:06,320
have provided the appropriate revenue that they should for the

2741
03:20:06,320 --> 03:20:10,454
number of boats, what you are seeing. In there just

2742
03:20:10,454 --> 03:20:13,134
for council to be aware of because there has been

2743
03:20:13,134 --> 03:20:16,734
service level conversations about the amount of sediment that's in

2744
03:20:16,734 --> 03:20:21,138
there. This is a movement going forward to actually see

2745
03:20:21,138 --> 03:20:24,378
a groin in place to reduce the sediment going. Forward.

2746
03:20:24,378 --> 03:20:28,075
So we're not going to have the annual. Dredging costs

2747
03:20:28,075 --> 03:20:31,835
and impacts going forward, as well as a full reconstruction

2748
03:20:31,835 --> 03:20:34,755
of the actual pads coming in to the Cook Road

2749
03:20:34,755 --> 03:20:36,755
boat launch, because right now there is a bit of

2750
03:20:36,755 --> 03:20:39,315
the problems at the toe of the pads as well.

2751
03:20:40,876 --> 03:20:43,956
So yes to the revenue and yes to finding a

2752
03:20:43,956 --> 03:20:46,076
longer term solution. So we're not dredging on an annual

2753
03:20:46,076 --> 03:20:49,516
basis. Good. Thank you very much. And council Dehart, to

2754
03:20:49,516 --> 03:20:52,396
your question. I believe it has come about with regards

2755
03:20:52,396 --> 03:20:55,956
to private industry. Also stating great concern that if they

2756
03:20:55,956 --> 03:21:00,635
have private businesses and are using that particular launch. That,

2757
03:21:00,635 --> 03:21:06,081
facilities like that. Are not being charged accordingly, and it

2758
03:21:06,081 --> 03:21:11,767
is good clarification that they are being charged accordingly. As

2759
03:21:11,767 --> 03:21:15,927
our private industries, according to current legislation or current bylaws

2760
03:21:15,927 --> 03:21:19,207
that we put into place. So it's just important points.

2761
03:21:19,207 --> 03:21:21,767
I mean, sometimes that message doesn't get always carried. Out,

2762
03:21:21,767 --> 03:21:27,531
so I appreciate asking that question. Councilor Cannon, please. Thank

2763
03:21:27,531 --> 03:21:29,971
you. Thanks to councilor Dehartlo is my question as well.

2764
03:21:29,971 --> 03:21:32,291
Because I've had a lot of comments and concerns on

2765
03:21:32,291 --> 03:21:35,891
that. As far as the art walk expansion. I'm going

2766
03:21:35,891 --> 03:21:39,211
to ask. Member of the Casagai society last year they

2767
03:21:39,211 --> 03:21:41,291
talked. About this, so I just want to clarify, so.

2768
03:21:42,959 --> 03:21:45,639
We're moving closer to the Queen's Way, extending through just

2769
03:21:45,639 --> 03:21:48,679
in the back by casket gardens that won't be affected?

2770
03:21:48,679 --> 03:21:52,991
I don't believe, but. There'll be Bennett clock and that

2771
03:21:52,991 --> 03:21:57,941
area, then. Will be renovated, updated. I think Mr. Poon

2772
03:21:57,941 --> 03:22:00,141
might be the best one to add the details. I

2773
03:22:00,141 --> 03:22:02,501
know we did. Reduce. We have a master plan or

2774
03:22:02,501 --> 03:22:05,101
a vision for the whole walk, but we've reduced. The

2775
03:22:05,101 --> 03:22:13,233
initial construction phase. Your worship. I'll handle. The question. It

2776
03:22:13,233 --> 03:22:16,584
is a renewal. Of the walk that you see beside

2777
03:22:16,584 --> 03:22:20,344
casket gardens now. And as you can imagine, as you

2778
03:22:20,344 --> 03:22:25,256
walk. From the ben o'clock down that corridor. It ends

2779
03:22:25,256 --> 03:22:27,896
right inside of a parking lot. So? The focus is

2780
03:22:27,896 --> 03:22:31,416
to actually provide the connection all the way through. And

2781
03:22:31,416 --> 03:22:33,256
if you think about the downtown and our cultural plan.

2782
03:22:35,164 --> 03:22:37,804
Eventually, it will connect behind the colon, community theater, and

2783
03:22:37,804 --> 03:22:39,324
then connect to the art walk. So this is the

2784
03:22:39,324 --> 03:22:42,524
next stage, so it doesn't provide that feeling right now

2785
03:22:42,524 --> 03:22:44,724
where you just kind of dead end in the city

2786
03:22:44,724 --> 03:22:48,124
parking lot. Thank you very much. I appreciate that explanation.

2787
03:22:48,124 --> 03:22:51,444
Just one. Last question on the performance measure five, the

2788
03:22:51,444 --> 03:22:57,141
sustainable urban forest strategy. It talks about 3140 trees per

2789
03:22:57,141 --> 03:22:59,141
year is what we're trying to do, but we're only

2790
03:22:59,141 --> 03:23:02,901
at 2700. And then it might not even be 27,

2791
03:23:02,901 --> 03:23:05,221
because it could be less than that. With trees removed

2792
03:23:05,221 --> 03:23:09,544
and damaged and vandalism. Is that correct? Yes, unfortunately, is

2793
03:23:09,544 --> 03:23:13,064
correct. As you know, homeowners that think they can cut

2794
03:23:13,064 --> 03:23:20,339
down trees in public property. Do we know? How significant

2795
03:23:20,339 --> 03:23:25,771
that is. Last year. I can think of at least

2796
03:23:25,771 --> 03:23:29,633
20 to 25 that came down. And we applied fines.

2797
03:23:29,633 --> 03:23:34,193
And I know for one we settled with property owner

2798
03:23:34,193 --> 03:23:43,665
for. Over $55,000. Thank you. Councilor Weber, please. Just going

2799
03:23:43,665 --> 03:23:47,692
back to the art walk expansion again. I see that

2800
03:23:47,692 --> 03:23:51,492
it includes updating Bennett Plaza last night at the Downtown

2801
03:23:51,492 --> 03:23:54,012
Colonial association board meeting. They were talking about a lack

2802
03:23:54,012 --> 03:23:58,652
of public washrooms in some parts of downtown, and I

2803
03:23:58,652 --> 03:24:01,492
said, I remember seeing something about this in the budget,

2804
03:24:01,492 --> 03:24:04,932
and so literally, we've had various reiterations or iterations of

2805
03:24:04,932 --> 03:24:09,710
washrooms and. Facilities in that area. And is that part

2806
03:24:09,710 --> 03:24:13,560
of the overall plan for that, too? For that area.

2807
03:24:15,038 --> 03:24:16,678
The public washroom plan that we have right now is

2808
03:24:16,678 --> 03:24:19,558
focused more on renewals in the beach areas, not in

2809
03:24:19,558 --> 03:24:22,772
the downtown area. Mel could correct me if I'm wrong,

2810
03:24:22,772 --> 03:24:25,292
but I don't think Carrie park has any contemplated public

2811
03:24:25,292 --> 03:24:28,332
washrooms being added there. But we are looking at City

2812
03:24:28,332 --> 03:24:32,572
park and potentially a change room facility in that area.

2813
03:24:32,572 --> 03:24:34,052
Okay. No, the reason I mentioned it is that ciS

2814
03:24:34,052 --> 03:24:37,892
public washrooms. In the art walk expansion description. So, anyway,

2815
03:24:37,892 --> 03:24:42,368
that's besides the point, I guess. For now. Thank you.

2816
03:24:42,368 --> 03:24:48,925
Councilor Lovegrove. Do you have questions? Thanks. So appreciate questions,

2817
03:24:48,925 --> 03:24:50,685
my colleagues. I just want to follow up on the

2818
03:24:50,685 --> 03:24:54,005
performance measure five. So am I reading this right? Our

2819
03:24:54,005 --> 03:24:56,285
target is. And you wrote it in the last sentence,

2820
03:24:56,285 --> 03:25:00,685
31 40 per year. And so for 2026, our estimate,

2821
03:25:00,685 --> 03:25:04,280
or forecast is we're going to. Stay at 2700. The

2822
03:25:04,280 --> 03:25:07,400
same amount we planted this year? That's our expectation, yes,

2823
03:25:07,400 --> 03:25:13,406
council. Okay, good. Okay, great. And then. Where is it?

2824
03:25:13,406 --> 03:25:18,406
Come on. I just moved my finger. There it is.

2825
03:25:19,614 --> 03:25:21,894
What's the timing on the aquatic center? This is page

2826
03:25:21,894 --> 03:25:30,498
232. Carry park. We're currently constructing phase three a, which

2827
03:25:30,498 --> 03:25:33,418
is the twinning of the pathway from the sales towards

2828
03:25:33,418 --> 03:25:39,956
the west to connect to the previous. Previously constructed. Phase

2829
03:25:39,956 --> 03:25:43,956
two. Phase three. B is the aquatic center that's currently

2830
03:25:43,956 --> 03:25:48,316
in the design. Stage and the construction is non anticipated

2831
03:25:48,316 --> 03:25:50,796
to start until at least the fall of next year.

2832
03:25:50,796 --> 03:25:54,125
After this or the heart of the tourist season. Even

2833
03:25:54,125 --> 03:25:56,885
if we have an opportunity to move in a little

2834
03:25:56,885 --> 03:26:01,083
earlier. With Memorial cup and touchdown Kelowna. In our usual

2835
03:26:01,083 --> 03:26:04,243
summer activity, we're going to hold off until the fall

2836
03:26:04,243 --> 03:26:07,003
for the start of that, and that'll also coincide with

2837
03:26:07,003 --> 03:26:11,033
the start of construction on the carry park. Reconstruction of

2838
03:26:11,033 --> 03:26:14,511
that area. Okay, fair enough. That's exciting. And thank you

2839
03:26:14,511 --> 03:26:19,473
for that. The park upgrades. Just detailed looking at all

2840
03:26:19,473 --> 03:26:25,398
the different parks. Great. Strathcona. There's more work to be

2841
03:26:25,398 --> 03:26:30,909
done in Strathcona Beach Park. Maybe I should ask. What?

2842
03:26:30,909 --> 03:26:34,474
Sorry. What work is going to be done in Strathcona.

2843
03:26:34,474 --> 03:26:40,729
Oh, sorry. Page 233. I'm not 100% sure. What the

2844
03:26:40,729 --> 03:26:42,609
details are and that what the plan is for that

2845
03:26:42,609 --> 03:26:46,769
park. Maybe Ms. Dapun. Can advise council on that likely

2846
03:26:46,769 --> 03:26:51,724
small item. The quantities association that has been key with

2847
03:26:51,724 --> 03:26:55,164
regards to kind of bringing forward apparatus that is completely

2848
03:26:55,164 --> 03:26:59,782
user friendly. Has future plans to look at expanding that

2849
03:26:59,782 --> 03:27:02,862
through their initiatives, and that would kind of be working.

2850
03:27:02,862 --> 03:27:05,342
Alongside, if you care to add anything else to that.

2851
03:27:05,342 --> 03:27:07,422
Sorry. I knew you guys were just chatting. There for

2852
03:27:07,422 --> 03:27:10,342
a second, so I jumped in. Yes, your worship, that

2853
03:27:10,342 --> 03:27:14,942
is correct. So the master plan. For Strathcona park is

2854
03:27:14,942 --> 03:27:19,246
done in phases. And the next phase that we work

2855
03:27:19,246 --> 03:27:24,976
with. Typically KGH foundation is for swings and a splash

2856
03:27:24,976 --> 03:27:29,456
area for accessibility. Thank you. Thank you. Okay. Thank you

2857
03:27:29,456 --> 03:27:34,426
very much. Thanks. Thank you. Seeing no further questions. One

2858
03:27:34,426 --> 03:27:38,656
more question, Councilor Dehart. Thank you, Mila. Matt, just to

2859
03:27:38,656 --> 03:27:43,136
clarify, because I don't know if anyone. Well, I got

2860
03:27:43,136 --> 03:27:48,218
lost because of. Mr. Councilor Webers. So it says. On

2861
03:27:48,218 --> 03:27:52,338
our artwalk expansion. On page 231, it does say public

2862
03:27:52,338 --> 03:27:57,177
washroom. But. You said. Well, I got mixed up when

2863
03:27:57,177 --> 03:27:59,537
you start talking about it, because it does say that.

2864
03:27:59,537 --> 03:28:02,577
In the program, and there is a washroom there. I

2865
03:28:02,577 --> 03:28:04,697
know it was volunteer run and whatever. I don't know

2866
03:28:04,697 --> 03:28:08,232
what's happening with it now. So can you explain that

2867
03:28:08,232 --> 03:28:11,072
public washroom bit there? Because it does say that in

2868
03:28:11,072 --> 03:28:14,825
the budget. Thank you, Councilor Dehart. I do not know

2869
03:28:14,825 --> 03:28:17,865
the details on that, so I'm. Going to look, Mr.

2870
03:28:17,865 --> 03:28:22,687
Boss. Councilor. Good question. So I think it's an issue

2871
03:28:22,687 --> 03:28:30,853
of write up here. We have a project for also

2872
03:28:30,853 --> 03:28:36,250
the Queen's Way Plaza design. Which was a different portion,

2873
03:28:36,250 --> 03:28:41,542
which would contemplate a building. For transit, bicycle storage, et

2874
03:28:41,542 --> 03:28:44,422
cetera, et cetera. This portion of that funding is related

2875
03:28:44,422 --> 03:28:48,582
to the artwork. Phase three only. So, basically, starting at

2876
03:28:48,582 --> 03:28:52,974
the plaza. Moving its way through. The parking lot up

2877
03:28:52,974 --> 03:28:56,254
to Doyle. Confusion there with regards to two. Great. Thank

2878
03:28:56,254 --> 03:29:01,543
you for the clarification. No further questions. Comments councilor stack

2879
03:29:01,543 --> 03:29:03,383
yes, thank you. I just wanted to lend my voice

2880
03:29:03,383 --> 03:29:08,463
to councilor Woolridge. Indy hart on complimenting our parks department

2881
03:29:08,463 --> 03:29:11,460
on the condition of our parks. I just seem to

2882
03:29:11,460 --> 03:29:15,097
be spending more and more time in them. And I

2883
03:29:15,097 --> 03:29:17,497
do believe from all the parks I've seen in the

2884
03:29:17,497 --> 03:29:21,746
different communities I visit, that the quality of grass. The

2885
03:29:21,746 --> 03:29:25,866
flowers and the cleanliness of our parks are second to

2886
03:29:25,866 --> 03:29:29,106
none. And I think even, like with the new waistbands

2887
03:29:29,106 --> 03:29:31,786
that are in there, I've not seen overflowing like. We

2888
03:29:31,786 --> 03:29:33,266
used to. We used to have a real problem with

2889
03:29:33,266 --> 03:29:37,436
that. And. Staff have come up with a very, very

2890
03:29:37,436 --> 03:29:40,903
good response. But just the quality of the grass. Like,

2891
03:29:40,903 --> 03:29:43,623
even in late August when the weather is super hot.

2892
03:29:43,623 --> 03:29:46,823
And dry here. Our grass in our parks is absolutely

2893
03:29:46,823 --> 03:29:50,543
beautiful. So it's something I take. A lot of pride

2894
03:29:50,543 --> 03:29:53,543
in. And I also touched on the Dehyd park. It's

2895
03:29:53,543 --> 03:29:57,535
just absolutely spectacular and even. As down there last week.

2896
03:29:57,535 --> 03:30:01,255
Once again, the grass condition is fantastic. So something I

2897
03:30:01,255 --> 03:30:04,055
think we as citizens should all take a lot of

2898
03:30:04,055 --> 03:30:09,216
pride in. Thank you, Councilor Odge. Please. Well, ditto, Mr.

2899
03:30:09,216 --> 03:30:13,136
Merrier. At the end of this term, some of us

2900
03:30:13,136 --> 03:30:15,096
may or may. Not come back again to council. I

2901
03:30:15,096 --> 03:30:18,176
know I won't be, but I will leave here. With

2902
03:30:18,176 --> 03:30:21,176
the one thought of my mind, the thing that I'm

2903
03:30:21,176 --> 03:30:28,100
proudest of. With this council and with this. Staff. For

2904
03:30:28,100 --> 03:30:31,768
this city is our parks. And it's a direct hard

2905
03:30:31,768 --> 03:30:34,808
work of staff who have just done a phenomenal job.

2906
03:30:35,878 --> 03:30:40,980
They've found land. They've enhanced land. We've got some brilliant

2907
03:30:40,980 --> 03:30:44,020
staff that have worked very hard to find good property.

2908
03:30:46,216 --> 03:30:49,442
And then the workers. That have turned them into magic.

2909
03:30:50,976 --> 03:30:55,740
So. That'll be my greatest memory. And the greatest pride

2910
03:30:55,740 --> 03:30:59,446
of this council. And this council. And this whole group.

2911
03:31:00,922 --> 03:31:05,198
Is our parks, and it's directly due to. A cohort

2912
03:31:05,198 --> 03:31:07,398
and staff, and I just want to say thank you.

2913
03:31:07,398 --> 03:31:10,118
Thank you very much. Thank you. Councilor Hodge. Councilor, logo,

2914
03:31:10,118 --> 03:31:15,198
please. Just one final adding to the dittos. Gudos. And

2915
03:31:15,198 --> 03:31:17,398
thanks again. Yesterday when you and I were on the

2916
03:31:17,398 --> 03:31:20,358
Rinka, the third person that joined us at 07:00 a.m.

2917
03:31:20,358 --> 03:31:26,656
was. A recent. Transfer from Vanderhoof to Kelowna, and he

2918
03:31:26,656 --> 03:31:30,136
could not say enough about our parks. He was just

2919
03:31:30,136 --> 03:31:32,696
blown away. He used to be one of the parks

2920
03:31:32,696 --> 03:31:35,776
and recreation managers up there, and he's got the eye,

2921
03:31:35,776 --> 03:31:38,016
he's got the expertise, and that was high. Prayers for

2922
03:31:38,016 --> 03:31:40,176
our city. Absolutely proud of what we do. Thank you

2923
03:31:40,176 --> 03:31:45,699
so much. Thank you. Just final comment with regards to,

2924
03:31:45,699 --> 03:31:50,552
obviously. What the team, Mr. Logan, Mr. Boss, and all

2925
03:31:50,552 --> 03:31:53,512
of the partnership teams that's involved with regards to this.

2926
03:31:53,512 --> 03:31:54,992
Thank you for the work that you do in our

2927
03:31:54,992 --> 03:32:01,092
community. As council was just saying? It's. Very obvious. Of

2928
03:32:01,092 --> 03:32:03,452
the concern that we have around parks and the recreation

2929
03:32:03,452 --> 03:32:06,372
elements within this community, and I know there was discussion

2930
03:32:06,372 --> 03:32:09,212
that came up earlier this week with regards to an

2931
03:32:09,212 --> 03:32:12,012
area of our community that we are using potentially for

2932
03:32:12,012 --> 03:32:15,212
something a little bit different. But the plan is that

2933
03:32:15,212 --> 03:32:17,532
I hope that that even activates that park more, as

2934
03:32:17,532 --> 03:32:20,172
councilor Stack had mentioned, and brings it even that much

2935
03:32:20,172 --> 03:32:22,786
more into the forefront. Within our community and based upon

2936
03:32:22,786 --> 03:32:25,186
the work that you've done in other areas, to kind

2937
03:32:25,186 --> 03:32:29,747
of treat our parks appropriately. I know that we care

2938
03:32:29,747 --> 03:32:32,307
about them, and it will definitely be done. So I

2939
03:32:32,307 --> 03:32:36,191
thank you for that. And that I would say we

2940
03:32:36,191 --> 03:32:40,037
are adjourned. Is there one other item to go through?

2941
03:32:41,591 --> 03:32:44,951
Just that there is two priority two items in this

2942
03:32:44,951 --> 03:32:47,991
service area. One for the bear proof waste. Receptacles and

2943
03:32:47,991 --> 03:32:51,471
one for trail network. So, just to ask if council

2944
03:32:51,471 --> 03:32:55,952
would like to. Discuss either of those requests. Seeing none.

2945
03:32:55,952 --> 03:33:05,615
We are breaking for lunch. Thank you. Excellent. Thanks. Council,

2946
03:33:05,615 --> 03:33:15,555
we will reconvene. At 115. And just to a note.

2947
03:33:17,012 --> 03:33:22,958
We have an appointment this afternoon at. 345. Oh, it's

2948
03:33:22,958 --> 03:33:25,278
Monday. Okay. Sorry. My apologies with regards to it. Thank

2949
03:33:25,278 --> 03:33:25,318
you.

2950
03:38:05,120 --> 03:38:13,997
Good God. Way to back me up. Good. Thank you.

2951
03:38:13,997 --> 03:38:20,555
Just going to call this back to order. City clerk,

2952
03:38:20,555 --> 03:38:23,875
please. Thank you, your worship. For those following along on

2953
03:38:23,875 --> 03:38:26,595
the agenda, we are now on. Item 14 for the

2954
03:38:26,595 --> 03:38:34,160
support and recreation service area. Afternoon, Ms. Gabriel. Thank you,

2955
03:38:34,160 --> 03:38:39,375
your worship. As Laura just mentioned. Start with sport and

2956
03:38:39,375 --> 03:38:43,055
recreation and just anyone who's following along in their budget

2957
03:38:43,055 --> 03:38:48,937
volume. We are on page 236. And we welcome the

2958
03:38:48,937 --> 03:38:51,897
divisional Director of Active Living in Culture, Mr. Jim Gabriel.

2959
03:38:53,947 --> 03:38:56,347
Thank you, Ms. Gabriel, for being here. Thanks. Good afternoon,

2960
03:38:56,347 --> 03:38:59,307
your worshiping council. Great to be here. So sport and

2961
03:38:59,307 --> 03:39:03,307
recreation play a pitiful role in shaping a vibrant, healthy

2962
03:39:03,307 --> 03:39:07,707
and cohesive communities. This service area recognizes that accessible sport

2963
03:39:07,707 --> 03:39:11,347
and recreation is essential for everyone. People of all ages,

2964
03:39:11,347 --> 03:39:15,859
abilities and interests. Through the programs and activities and services

2965
03:39:15,859 --> 03:39:22,342
provided, numerous benefits are achieved, including advanced. Enhanced mental, physical

2966
03:39:22,342 --> 03:39:25,702
and social well being, help build strong families and connected

2967
03:39:25,702 --> 03:39:31,702
communities, improve quality of life. Provide significant economic stimulus and

2968
03:39:31,702 --> 03:39:37,673
contribute to community growth. In 2025, numerous projects and initiatives

2969
03:39:37,673 --> 03:39:40,953
were advanced. A couple examples include the development of a

2970
03:39:40,953 --> 03:39:48,140
corporate accessibility plan. Per legislative requirements and accessibility Advisory committee

2971
03:39:48,140 --> 03:39:53,710
was established that supported the development of. Accessibility to plan

2972
03:39:53,710 --> 03:39:56,390
and we continue to support this group in the advancement

2973
03:39:56,390 --> 03:40:00,392
of the actions from this plan. The building stronger. Klona,

2974
03:40:00,392 --> 03:40:03,552
which has been referenced numerous times today, continues to play

2975
03:40:03,552 --> 03:40:06,232
a big role within our world. And there's probably three

2976
03:40:06,232 --> 03:40:11,752
touch points for us, which is the RPRC. Detail design

2977
03:40:11,752 --> 03:40:17,269
activity center validation. And operational work looking when we open

2978
03:40:17,269 --> 03:40:19,429
the facilities, and I'll make reference to that in the

2979
03:40:19,429 --> 03:40:22,709
next slide as well. Also updating our fees and charges

2980
03:40:22,709 --> 03:40:27,789
program where fees set become more transparent and intentional. We

2981
03:40:27,789 --> 03:40:30,469
now have a framework to continue to build on that

2982
03:40:30,469 --> 03:40:33,429
connects our fees to the cost of delivering the service.

2983
03:40:34,369 --> 03:40:38,449
Community benefit and target investment. And again, the program is

2984
03:40:38,449 --> 03:40:43,047
connected back with the corporate fees and charges. Policy. A

2985
03:40:43,047 --> 03:40:45,767
couple items for continuous improvement. The first one I was

2986
03:40:45,767 --> 03:40:47,967
going to take just a minute on. Is the BSK

2987
03:40:47,967 --> 03:40:53,047
operational planning. Recognizing the complexity and significance of launching five

2988
03:40:53,047 --> 03:40:56,687
new recreation facilities and I put Okanagan collage into that

2989
03:40:56,687 --> 03:41:01,378
bucket as well. Across divisional team has begun operational planning

2990
03:41:01,378 --> 03:41:05,959
for BSK. The team is creating the framework. For the

2991
03:41:05,959 --> 03:41:10,119
allocation of time and space within the facilities, operations, memberships,

2992
03:41:10,119 --> 03:41:14,159
programs, staffing, and financial modeling with a focus on data

2993
03:41:14,159 --> 03:41:18,024
and user experience. This will ensure the facilities will open

2994
03:41:18,024 --> 03:41:21,903
up when they're ready to go. The last one I'll

2995
03:41:21,903 --> 03:41:25,743
comment on. Just under this area is the event framework

2996
03:41:25,743 --> 03:41:29,103
with significant intention on event and upcoming events, major sport

2997
03:41:29,103 --> 03:41:32,903
and community events, and the fact that event tourism is

2998
03:41:32,903 --> 03:41:37,063
now part of the action within council priorities under economic

2999
03:41:37,063 --> 03:41:39,463
development. We are in the process of updating our event.

3000
03:41:41,149 --> 03:41:44,229
Framework and service levels. We've been to council numerous times

3001
03:41:44,229 --> 03:41:46,829
over this last year, talking about some of the different

3002
03:41:46,829 --> 03:41:50,989
events that have happened, the community value, community benefit, economic

3003
03:41:50,989 --> 03:41:54,429
impact, and this will be kind of a segue into

3004
03:41:54,429 --> 03:41:57,069
workshops starting on Monday, and we'll do some more. Work

3005
03:41:57,069 --> 03:41:58,949
over the course of next year to update the event

3006
03:41:58,949 --> 03:42:01,679
framework. Understanding the vision. And where we're going to be

3007
03:42:01,679 --> 03:42:07,682
going with this portfolio. Couple performance measurements to highlight. I

3008
03:42:07,682 --> 03:42:09,162
won't go through them all, but I'll touch. On just

3009
03:42:09,162 --> 03:42:12,362
a few. The first one is the sport park area

3010
03:42:12,362 --> 03:42:16,322
per 1000 residents. This metric measures the area of grass

3011
03:42:16,322 --> 03:42:19,562
sports fields is the field itself in the surrounding area.

3012
03:42:23,137 --> 03:42:25,937
And it's provided in hectares per 1000 residents compared to

3013
03:42:25,937 --> 03:42:29,337
other municipalities. You can see that were midstream, slightly below

3014
03:42:29,337 --> 03:42:32,937
midstream in terms of what we offer. And then when

3015
03:42:32,937 --> 03:42:35,897
you consider this metric, the important aspect, I think, is

3016
03:42:35,897 --> 03:42:38,177
you take the numbers that we have the combination of

3017
03:42:38,177 --> 03:42:42,016
that with the level of use on the site. And.

3018
03:42:43,708 --> 03:42:46,748
Their availability becomes a pretty important combination of things to

3019
03:42:46,748 --> 03:42:48,428
look at and I'll touch on. That a bit more

3020
03:42:48,428 --> 03:42:54,317
in the next slide. The next area. Citizen satisfaction. Performance

3021
03:42:54,317 --> 03:42:57,397
management number two. And so every two years, the citizen

3022
03:42:57,397 --> 03:43:00,557
survey is carried out to assess the public satisfaction with

3023
03:43:00,557 --> 03:43:06,415
the Mitchell programs and services. Evaluating resident satisfaction with city

3024
03:43:06,415 --> 03:43:10,655
provided support and recreation facilities, programs, and the area really

3025
03:43:10,655 --> 03:43:14,655
looks at parks and sports fields, rec facilities and programs.

3026
03:43:14,655 --> 03:43:17,775
And one of the things you'll notice in 2026 sports

3027
03:43:17,775 --> 03:43:20,455
fields have taken a bit of a dip and it's

3028
03:43:20,455 --> 03:43:22,615
got nothing to do with the quality of them just

3029
03:43:22,615 --> 03:43:27,343
through the. Building sunglass bundle. We've taken five key sports

3030
03:43:27,343 --> 03:43:31,532
fields out of our inventory. And they're key facilities and

3031
03:43:31,532 --> 03:43:32,892
so, of course, that's going to have a bit. Of

3032
03:43:32,892 --> 03:43:35,732
an impact on what we can do. But come 20,

3033
03:43:35,732 --> 03:43:38,292
27, 28, we'll have a net gain. I think of

3034
03:43:38,292 --> 03:43:41,652
about 4.5. When you look at Glen Moore with natural

3035
03:43:41,652 --> 03:43:45,711
light. Natural. Turf field, wet lights. Retland will have an

3036
03:43:45,711 --> 03:43:49,191
artificial turf with lights, and so that combination will be

3037
03:43:49,191 --> 03:43:50,871
better off than where we are today. So a bit

3038
03:43:50,871 --> 03:43:54,671
of a. Bit of a pain today. But net gain

3039
03:43:54,671 --> 03:43:58,694
down the road. The last two. The first one, tournaments

3040
03:43:58,694 --> 03:44:03,792
and events. The advantages of hosting tournaments and events has

3041
03:44:03,792 --> 03:44:10,269
been documented significantly over 2025. Our approach adopts a proactive

3042
03:44:10,269 --> 03:44:14,069
approach on event hosting by securing tournaments and events, aiding

3043
03:44:14,069 --> 03:44:19,800
in the growth of existing events and ensuring. The availability

3044
03:44:19,800 --> 03:44:24,280
of well maintained facilities and tournament sites. The objective is

3045
03:44:24,280 --> 03:44:27,240
to foster a dynamic and balanced mix of tournaments and

3046
03:44:27,240 --> 03:44:30,908
events throughout the community. One of the things that we're

3047
03:44:30,908 --> 03:44:34,726
looking at over the course of 2026 right now. It's

3048
03:44:34,726 --> 03:44:36,486
more of an output. It just shows a number of

3049
03:44:36,486 --> 03:44:38,006
things that we've been able to secure and that we

3050
03:44:38,006 --> 03:44:40,606
host. We're looking to change that to something a bit

3051
03:44:40,606 --> 03:44:45,709
more. Looking at the economic gain of these events and

3052
03:44:45,709 --> 03:44:48,309
turn it around from an output to an outcome. Kind

3053
03:44:48,309 --> 03:44:53,044
of framework? The last one. Is the sports facility and

3054
03:44:53,044 --> 03:44:57,164
capacity hours. So appreciating the importance of sport and recreation.

3055
03:44:57,164 --> 03:45:02,543
Facilities play in enhancing community life. Understanding. The facility capacity

3056
03:45:02,543 --> 03:45:05,063
as a key aspect in terms of how we can

3057
03:45:05,063 --> 03:45:07,703
service the community and how we can influence future planning.

3058
03:45:09,057 --> 03:45:10,817
The aim is to optimize the use of these facilities.

3059
03:45:12,040 --> 03:45:17,280
Maintain adequate public access, required maintenance time and anticipate future

3060
03:45:17,280 --> 03:45:22,640
needs. Presently, our sports fields, arenas and stadiums are at

3061
03:45:22,640 --> 03:45:26,088
capacity. With that. I'll flip it back over to bell.

3062
03:45:34,837 --> 03:45:38,797
The Sport and Recreation service area has an expenditure budget

3063
03:45:38,797 --> 03:45:45,717
of 2026 of $146.6. Million and is operated under six

3064
03:45:45,717 --> 03:45:51,028
cost centers. The funding strategy for the year is predominantly

3065
03:45:51,028 --> 03:45:56,766
borrowing. That is all attributed to the replacement of the

3066
03:45:56,766 --> 03:46:01,085
Parkinson Recreation center as part of the capital program. The

3067
03:46:01,085 --> 03:46:05,005
other major funding sources are transfers from reserves and property

3068
03:46:05,005 --> 03:46:12,280
taxes. The 2025 revised budget was $48,598,000.

3069
03:46:16,144 --> 03:46:20,624
After the annualization of previously approved budget requests, the 2026

3070
03:46:20,624 --> 03:46:27,679
year is starting at 25,880,000. To maintain current service levels,

3071
03:46:27,679 --> 03:46:33,639
an additional 77,083,000 is being requested and to enhance service

3072
03:46:33,639 --> 03:46:43,196
levels. An additional 43,588,000 is requested. This service area

3073
03:46:43,196 --> 03:46:47,516
has two priority one operating requests as well as one

3074
03:46:47,516 --> 03:46:50,916
request for operating and maintenance. Impacts from the capital program.

3075
03:46:50,916 --> 03:46:54,276
These can be found on page 246 of your budget

3076
03:46:54,276 --> 03:46:59,436
volume. First request is for community partnerships starting at $70,000

3077
03:46:59,436 --> 03:47:07,858
in 2026. Increasing to 135,000 ongoing funded from taxation. Second

3078
03:47:07,858 --> 03:47:11,698
is the sports and community events activation for 170,000 in

3079
03:47:11,698 --> 03:47:18,458
2026, increasing to 235,000 ongoing, which is funded from taxation,

3080
03:47:18,458 --> 03:47:21,978
but is recommended to be funded as part of the

3081
03:47:21,978 --> 03:47:28,437
council stra. Strategic initiatives budget request the original $500,000. The

3082
03:47:28,437 --> 03:47:36,404
sport and Recreation 2026 capital requests. Are in alignment with

3083
03:47:36,404 --> 03:47:41,440
the council approved ten year capital plan. Is there any

3084
03:47:41,440 --> 03:47:43,720
priority one request that council would like to discuss further?

3085
03:47:46,205 --> 03:47:50,245
Councilor Wolverich. Thanks to worship. Thanks, Jim. Just a question

3086
03:47:50,245 --> 03:47:56,052
about the community partnerships position. The explanation kind of shares

3087
03:47:56,052 --> 03:47:59,132
what it will function as. But how is that being

3088
03:47:59,132 --> 03:48:02,321
managed right now? And what are the implications? If we

3089
03:48:02,321 --> 03:48:06,887
don't have this position, yes. You worship this position within

3090
03:48:06,887 --> 03:48:09,895
the partnerships office. They pay attention. They do a lot

3091
03:48:09,895 --> 03:48:11,575
of work on the major partnerships, the big ones and

3092
03:48:11,575 --> 03:48:13,695
the things that we do with some of the major

3093
03:48:13,695 --> 03:48:15,895
facilities and stuff. So this one takes a deeper like

3094
03:48:15,895 --> 03:48:19,935
a lower level look within the community itself. So it'll

3095
03:48:19,935 --> 03:48:22,375
be working with a number. Of different not for profit

3096
03:48:22,375 --> 03:48:25,015
organizations within the community as they look after their facility.

3097
03:48:25,015 --> 03:48:28,258
So it's. Going to be looking at how. We can

3098
03:48:28,258 --> 03:48:32,098
leverage and manage existing relationships and existing partnerships, and I

3099
03:48:32,098 --> 03:48:33,858
can give you a couple of examples and service agreements.

3100
03:48:35,190 --> 03:48:38,190
Be proactive in how we manage them and how we

3101
03:48:38,190 --> 03:48:41,590
work with them. Managing partnerships is a two way process.

3102
03:48:43,532 --> 03:48:44,892
In the service, you don't just do it and sort

3103
03:48:44,892 --> 03:48:47,412
of walk away. So we have some responsibilities and accountability

3104
03:48:47,412 --> 03:48:50,848
with that as well, so. It's going to deal with

3105
03:48:50,848 --> 03:48:53,928
that, but also help us with new opportunities are at

3106
03:48:53,928 --> 03:48:55,648
the door and we get numerous that come in through

3107
03:48:55,648 --> 03:48:58,848
the sport and recreation area and arts and culture. Area,

3108
03:48:58,848 --> 03:49:00,968
how we can advance them and either to move them

3109
03:49:00,968 --> 03:49:07,553
forward. Or. To. Stop the process. Okay, so. It's going

3110
03:49:07,553 --> 03:49:10,294
to allow us. To work better, I think, within our

3111
03:49:10,294 --> 03:49:13,054
organizations that we deal with and also be more responsive

3112
03:49:13,054 --> 03:49:15,454
to. New opportunities that are coming in. Okay, so it

3113
03:49:15,454 --> 03:49:18,936
moves us outside of just. The large facilities like the

3114
03:49:18,936 --> 03:49:23,356
YMC that manages some of the bigger. For example, those

3115
03:49:23,356 --> 03:49:25,556
ones still fall within AOC in terms of the day

3116
03:49:25,556 --> 03:49:29,116
to day contract administration. Okay, so this position would play

3117
03:49:29,116 --> 03:49:32,701
a part of that. Right now. Often I wouldn't say

3118
03:49:32,701 --> 03:49:36,940
it's side of desk, but. Without the proper attention. You

3119
03:49:36,940 --> 03:49:40,020
get the attention when it's almost like issues management versus

3120
03:49:40,020 --> 03:49:43,380
how are things going? Get proper reporting, looking at the

3121
03:49:43,380 --> 03:49:46,060
facilities, doing proper walkthroughs and. Things like that. Okay, that

3122
03:49:46,060 --> 03:49:48,580
makes sense to me. Thank you. Thank you, councilor stack.

3123
03:49:48,580 --> 03:49:52,991
Please. Thank you. Melanie, can you speak once again? To

3124
03:49:52,991 --> 03:49:57,478
the sports and community events activation. You mentioned that. This

3125
03:49:57,478 --> 03:50:00,358
is in alignment with the also council priorities. But is

3126
03:50:00,358 --> 03:50:03,918
this as well as or just refresh how the whole

3127
03:50:03,918 --> 03:50:06,158
package comes together so I can understand what the total

3128
03:50:06,158 --> 03:50:10,473
impact is. Your worship. I think it would be. Archie.

3129
03:50:11,140 --> 03:50:13,861
Thank you. Thank you, your worship. So. When we were

3130
03:50:13,861 --> 03:50:18,861
planning the budget for 2025, we had earmarked $500,000. To

3131
03:50:18,861 --> 03:50:21,501
be included in this budget as part of the council's

3132
03:50:21,501 --> 03:50:24,581
strategic initiatives. Top up like this is a funding source

3133
03:50:24,581 --> 03:50:26,821
that was in the budget a couple years ago that

3134
03:50:26,821 --> 03:50:32,742
has been fully allocated out now. From that $500,000. Two

3135
03:50:32,742 --> 03:50:35,542
requests were identified and are being recommended to be funded

3136
03:50:35,542 --> 03:50:38,222
out of that amount. So the first one being the

3137
03:50:38,222 --> 03:50:42,528
business improvements area service area request. And then this one

3138
03:50:42,528 --> 03:50:46,008
as well, the sports and community event. The result is

3139
03:50:46,008 --> 03:50:51,368
that $500,000 is now a $150,000 request that is included

3140
03:50:51,368 --> 03:50:55,088
under governance and leadership. Okay, but. The other parts of

3141
03:50:55,088 --> 03:50:57,168
it are worth showing up in the other parts of

3142
03:50:57,168 --> 03:51:00,048
the budget now, correct? You're. Thank you. Thank you. Thank

3143
03:51:00,048 --> 03:51:03,178
you. Councilor Hodge, please. Thank you, Mr. Mayor. I'm just

3144
03:51:03,178 --> 03:51:08,511
going to, for clarification here on the community. Partnerships. 69,600

3145
03:51:08,511 --> 03:51:12,915
is for half a year. Then next year we'll go

3146
03:51:12,915 --> 03:51:19,030
to 135. Feet. That 69,000 represents. What is that, just

3147
03:51:19,030 --> 03:51:23,814
one wage? Your worship. That would be half. We'd come

3148
03:51:23,814 --> 03:51:26,454
in halfway through the year, so it'd. Be like a

3149
03:51:26,454 --> 03:51:29,254
June type start scenario, and then it would be full

3150
03:51:29,254 --> 03:51:38,625
on come 2027. That's just one person's salary. Okay. Thank

3151
03:51:38,625 --> 03:51:45,177
you. Councilor Cannon, please. Thanks, Mr. Gabriel, and to your

3152
03:51:45,177 --> 03:51:47,912
team for the great work and. A great pasteas. And

3153
03:51:47,912 --> 03:51:51,672
I just wanted to know on page 249, $10 million

3154
03:51:51,672 --> 03:51:56,711
set aside. For recreation facilities, infrastructure upgrades. It's kind of

3155
03:51:56,711 --> 03:52:00,033
broad. Just large and small. Recreation facility. I wonder if

3156
03:52:00,033 --> 03:52:02,073
you can drill down a little bit more, which is

3157
03:52:02,073 --> 03:52:10,997
envisioning with that. These upgrades. Okay.

3158
03:52:15,324 --> 03:52:22,305
This one is for. A variety. A variety of different

3159
03:52:22,305 --> 03:52:27,696
facilities. It's work to look at things around the upper

3160
03:52:27,696 --> 03:52:31,256
bowl, different arenas, facilities and stuff like. That. So it's

3161
03:52:31,256 --> 03:52:32,976
an allotment that funds that we can begin to look

3162
03:52:32,976 --> 03:52:37,058
at. Different. Facilities and look at upgrades in terms of.

3163
03:52:38,634 --> 03:52:41,954
Better able to service the public in different events. So

3164
03:52:41,954 --> 03:52:43,674
if you think about the Apple bowl for example, could

3165
03:52:43,674 --> 03:52:46,034
be items in the Apple bowl, looking at the bleachers,

3166
03:52:46,034 --> 03:52:48,994
looking at the dressrooms. Looking at electrical requirements and stuff

3167
03:52:48,994 --> 03:52:51,674
to make that facility better for current users, but also.

3168
03:52:52,772 --> 03:52:56,256
For future. Opportunities, and it would be looking at a

3169
03:52:56,256 --> 03:52:58,176
number of different facilities over time, but I think that

3170
03:52:58,176 --> 03:53:01,616
would be the priority at this time. Okay, so there's

3171
03:53:01,616 --> 03:53:06,451
no definitive plans for 2026. For the 10 million. There's

3172
03:53:06,451 --> 03:53:09,371
no definitive plans with the $10 million to be spent

3173
03:53:09,371 --> 03:53:16,852
in 2026, Mr. Estrom, any comments on this?

3174
03:53:19,813 --> 03:53:21,533
If you'll get Derek, can you help out there?

3175
03:53:34,005 --> 03:53:38,325
Your worship, as part of our facilities department, we undertake.

3176
03:53:39,766 --> 03:53:41,686
Condition assessments of all our facilities. So these are the

3177
03:53:41,686 --> 03:53:44,566
renewal and enhancement aspects of it for the most part.

3178
03:53:46,335 --> 03:53:49,135
They're identified, and they all are identified for building renewal.

3179
03:53:51,308 --> 03:53:56,068
Specifically, Coldwell family Y is the largest one for building

3180
03:53:56,068 --> 03:54:00,519
systems renewal. The replacement of two of the air handling

3181
03:54:00,519 --> 03:54:04,079
units is of vital importance to move forward, and so

3182
03:54:04,079 --> 03:54:07,677
these are the types of things that are identified. OK

3183
03:54:07,677 --> 03:54:11,517
Talking gymnastics center as well has a comprehensive renewal of

3184
03:54:11,517 --> 03:54:15,077
its HVAC systems. So as we've gone through the listing

3185
03:54:15,077 --> 03:54:17,637
of the renewal projects that are needed within the area.

3186
03:54:19,858 --> 03:54:23,138
The building renewal systems are of the highest prone priority,

3187
03:54:23,138 --> 03:54:27,541
and they go across a number of different facilities. As

3188
03:54:27,541 --> 03:54:29,061
Mr. Gaber alluded to, possibly the Apple bowl then as

3189
03:54:29,061 --> 03:54:31,901
well, and just again, just to confirm that it is

3190
03:54:31,901 --> 03:54:34,719
approved in our ten year capital. I was just wondering

3191
03:54:34,719 --> 03:54:36,319
as far as what there is planning for next year.

3192
03:54:38,036 --> 03:54:40,636
And when will we know what our cost will be

3193
03:54:40,636 --> 03:54:48,058
to host the Lions game? Your worship. Your worship. We're

3194
03:54:48,058 --> 03:54:53,389
working closely with. Them. We're looking at funds like this

3195
03:54:53,389 --> 03:54:55,349
to look at what improvements we're going to. Be doing?

3196
03:54:56,811 --> 03:55:01,047
With the applicable understanding. What they're set up for. Game

3197
03:55:01,047 --> 03:55:04,403
day will be. Events like the apple, events like the

3198
03:55:04,403 --> 03:55:08,563
Okanagan or the BC lions, significant economic impact. They're bringing

3199
03:55:08,563 --> 03:55:10,923
to the community. And when you look at locations where

3200
03:55:10,923 --> 03:55:15,083
they're going to be the ability to influence how those

3201
03:55:15,083 --> 03:55:20,366
facilities are set up. Will be. A key events in

3202
03:55:20,366 --> 03:55:25,488
the past, CCMAs and things like that. Our investment has

3203
03:55:25,488 --> 03:55:28,008
been in the tune of like, 450 or so $1,000.

3204
03:55:29,856 --> 03:55:33,193
And I think as we look at facility upgrades, And

3205
03:55:33,193 --> 03:55:36,713
the relationship with the lines will be probably in that

3206
03:55:36,713 --> 03:55:39,993
realm as well. When you look at facility upgrades that

3207
03:55:39,993 --> 03:55:46,868
will support them using existing resources. Operational opportunities. That we

3208
03:55:46,868 --> 03:55:49,508
can leverage to support them. That's sort of the game

3209
03:55:49,508 --> 03:55:51,468
plan that we're working. This fund could be used for

3210
03:55:51,468 --> 03:55:56,615
that. Possibly. Then. The fund would be used. For appable

3211
03:55:56,615 --> 03:55:58,855
improvements. And one of the things that would be important

3212
03:55:58,855 --> 03:56:02,815
is to line, where possible. Align these improvements to the

3213
03:56:02,815 --> 03:56:05,975
needs of the lines. First and foremost, it's going to

3214
03:56:05,975 --> 03:56:10,335
be about improving the facility itself. Thank you. City manager,

3215
03:56:10,335 --> 03:56:13,684
please. Yeah. Thank you, your worship. Just for clarity on

3216
03:56:13,684 --> 03:56:17,644
one aspect of that, Mr. Gabriel is correct. When he

3217
03:56:17,644 --> 03:56:20,924
mentioned drawing on existing funds to support this event. And

3218
03:56:20,924 --> 03:56:22,964
I think that's the bottom line is that within the

3219
03:56:22,964 --> 03:56:27,263
existing budgets that are presented to you today, And other

3220
03:56:27,263 --> 03:56:32,263
budgets, such as major event development and major partnerships. We

3221
03:56:32,263 --> 03:56:36,563
anticipate funding the cost from there. And as council knows,

3222
03:56:36,563 --> 03:56:40,523
when we had the BC lines here and we introduced

3223
03:56:40,523 --> 03:56:43,737
that those games were coming to our community. That was

3224
03:56:43,737 --> 03:56:46,577
a very question that was asked by the media, and

3225
03:56:46,577 --> 03:56:49,057
we directed that question when we answered back the media.

3226
03:56:49,057 --> 03:56:51,737
I think, as all of councilor is aware, that as

3227
03:56:51,737 --> 03:56:53,537
soon as we were aware of exactly what that would

3228
03:56:53,537 --> 03:56:55,777
be, we would share that publicly, but we're still working

3229
03:56:55,777 --> 03:56:58,217
through that process. I think that was shared with council.

3230
03:57:00,024 --> 03:57:07,280
Seeing. No further questions. Excellent. So we'll now move into

3231
03:57:07,280 --> 03:57:12,140
arts and culture. This is on page 251 of your

3232
03:57:12,140 --> 03:57:15,746
budget volume. Again. Thank you, your worship. The goal of

3233
03:57:15,746 --> 03:57:19,066
arts and culture is to inspire, support and develop a

3234
03:57:19,066 --> 03:57:23,346
rich variety of high quality arts, culture, and heritage experiences

3235
03:57:23,346 --> 03:57:26,666
for residents and visitors. We do this through investing in

3236
03:57:26,666 --> 03:57:32,155
infrastructure, artists and nonprofit organizations. The goal is to empower

3237
03:57:32,155 --> 03:57:35,515
the local creative sector to deliver arts and culture events,

3238
03:57:35,515 --> 03:57:39,515
programs, and activities through various grants and artists led initiatives.

3239
03:57:41,169 --> 03:57:43,609
Again, a number of accomplishments have been achieved over the

3240
03:57:43,609 --> 03:57:46,169
course of this year. A couple of highlights would be

3241
03:57:46,169 --> 03:57:50,689
a busy Clona community theater. KCT hosted over 200 performances

3242
03:57:50,689 --> 03:57:54,809
with over 90,000 patrons. A key piece to this success

3243
03:57:54,809 --> 03:58:01,148
is our volunteer program that further supports audience experience. With

3244
03:58:01,148 --> 03:58:06,028
over 150 volunteers contributing over 7500 hours of quality service.

3245
03:58:07,654 --> 03:58:10,774
We continue to expand the box office and our ticketing

3246
03:58:10,774 --> 03:58:15,054
services with inclusion of the RCA appable. Elk Stadium and

3247
03:58:15,054 --> 03:58:21,089
Ubco. Including ticketing partnerships with Clona Falcons, Okanagan sun and

3248
03:58:21,089 --> 03:58:25,049
Ubco Heat and one of the great Advancements this year

3249
03:58:25,049 --> 03:58:28,769
was an agreement with Ubco Heath for the Heat games.

3250
03:58:28,769 --> 03:58:33,489
In 2025, we processed over 200,000 tickets for nearly 300

3251
03:58:33,489 --> 03:58:38,619
community events throughout the box office. In terms of continuous

3252
03:58:38,619 --> 03:58:42,659
improvement. The continued development of the cultural plan. This plan

3253
03:58:42,659 --> 03:58:50,923
will incorporate lessons learned community feedback and emerging trends. To

3254
03:58:50,923 --> 03:58:55,182
shape the future of our cultural landscape. Also another one

3255
03:58:55,182 --> 03:59:00,559
to highlight is the continued development. Of our nonprofit governance

3256
03:59:00,559 --> 03:59:04,719
and capacity building annual conference. This event has started off

3257
03:59:04,719 --> 03:59:09,079
as a learning opportunity to one day event attracting over

3258
03:59:09,079 --> 03:59:13,919
350 participants from over 135 not for profit organizations from

3259
03:59:13,919 --> 03:59:20,006
the sectors of sport, recreation, culture and social. Numerous educational

3260
03:59:20,006 --> 03:59:24,092
opportunities and dynamic speakers. The goal again is to continue

3261
03:59:24,092 --> 03:59:27,252
to support the development of a strong nonprofit sector, and

3262
03:59:27,252 --> 03:59:32,058
in turn, deliver programs and services to the community. That

3263
03:59:32,058 --> 03:59:36,591
we all benefit from. A couple performance measures to highlight.

3264
03:59:36,591 --> 03:59:39,431
The first one is the arts and culture investment per

3265
03:59:39,431 --> 03:59:46,653
capita. This measurement recognizes. That sustained in response to funding

3266
03:59:46,653 --> 03:59:49,493
is essential to ensure programs and services grow alongside our

3267
03:59:49,493 --> 03:59:53,693
population and continue to enrich the community. As costs rise

3268
03:59:53,693 --> 03:59:57,893
and expectations evolve, maintaining strong investment will be critical in

3269
03:59:57,893 --> 04:00:01,847
achieving the goal set out. In our cultural plan. Along.

3270
04:00:01,847 --> 04:00:04,127
Sec. You may recall from last year a long standing

3271
04:00:04,127 --> 04:00:07,567
industry benchmark for Missville and arts and culture. Investment has

3272
04:00:07,567 --> 04:00:16,160
been $25 per capita. This hasn't been adjusted through annual

3273
04:00:16,160 --> 04:00:18,640
increases, and we've pulled it out and through. The course

3274
04:00:18,640 --> 04:00:21,040
of updating the culture plan, we're going to have a

3275
04:00:21,040 --> 04:00:24,938
relook. At what the benchmarks for us should be. Another

3276
04:00:24,938 --> 04:00:27,338
one to look at is the leverage. Investments in the

3277
04:00:27,338 --> 04:00:30,858
arts and culture local, not for profit. Arts and culture

3278
04:00:30,858 --> 04:00:35,218
programs or groups use city funding to attract additional revenue,

3279
04:00:35,218 --> 04:00:40,658
such as grants, sponsorship, government support and earned income. This

3280
04:00:40,658 --> 04:00:44,538
indicator shows how early investment helps sustain organizations and diversify

3281
04:00:44,538 --> 04:00:48,700
their. Funding. With the aim to continue increased leverage dollars

3282
04:00:48,700 --> 04:00:53,628
and expand clonish creative sector and economic impact. The final

3283
04:00:53,628 --> 04:00:57,388
two deal with KCT. The first one is the average

3284
04:00:57,388 --> 04:00:59,988
fill rate. So the fill rate refers to the percentage

3285
04:00:59,988 --> 04:01:05,492
of tickets sold to. Main stage performances compared to the

3286
04:01:05,492 --> 04:01:10,183
capacity for audience. The rate provides one indicator that the

3287
04:01:10,183 --> 04:01:13,343
shows being offered are of interest to the community members

3288
04:01:13,343 --> 04:01:16,623
and shows our right size for the venue. The goal

3289
04:01:16,623 --> 04:01:19,623
would be to maximize the average fuel rate while balancing

3290
04:01:19,623 --> 04:01:24,023
our goal and cultural development by supporting less popular genres

3291
04:01:24,023 --> 04:01:27,383
and emerging performers. So it's finding that right balance. And

3292
04:01:27,383 --> 04:01:32,623
the final one is. The kct. Revenue. And it includes

3293
04:01:32,623 --> 04:01:35,743
income from theater rentals, front of house operations and other

3294
04:01:35,743 --> 04:01:40,543
sources of revenue recovery. The financial measure is important for

3295
04:01:40,543 --> 04:01:43,663
the city to show how clonic community theater supports the

3296
04:01:43,663 --> 04:01:49,095
city's economy and cultural life. So. Arts and culture service

3297
04:01:49,095 --> 04:01:55,095
area has an $8.6 million expenditure budget for 2026. And

3298
04:01:55,095 --> 04:02:03,818
operates under four cost centers. Funding for this. Service area

3299
04:02:03,818 --> 04:02:07,378
is made up of property taxes, transfers from reserves and

3300
04:02:07,378 --> 04:02:16,067
fees, and charges. The 2025 revised budget with $7,551,000 and

3301
04:02:16,067 --> 04:02:20,587
after the annualization of previously approved budget requests. The service

3302
04:02:20,587 --> 04:02:26,547
area will start 2026 with the operating budget of 5,475,000.

3303
04:02:28,943 --> 04:02:33,903
To maintain current service levels, an additional $1,076,000 is being

3304
04:02:33,903 --> 04:02:42,071
requested. And to enhance service levels. An additional $2,010,000 is

3305
04:02:42,071 --> 04:02:47,673
requested. This service area has no priority one operating budget

3306
04:02:47,673 --> 04:02:54,298
request this year. The 2026 capital Program is fully in

3307
04:02:54,298 --> 04:02:58,578
alignment with the council adopted tenure capital plan. That is

3308
04:02:58,578 --> 04:03:01,459
fully funded. And at this time, I just want to

3309
04:03:01,459 --> 04:03:05,729
make a note for council. That, as council is aware,

3310
04:03:05,729 --> 04:03:09,169
we move to cash flow budgeting for the capital plan

3311
04:03:09,169 --> 04:03:12,435
over the last couple of years and. As part of

3312
04:03:12,435 --> 04:03:16,730
that. Includes every year updating timelines for project delivery. So

3313
04:03:16,730 --> 04:03:18,810
some of the items that are being shown here in

3314
04:03:18,810 --> 04:03:23,090
the 2026 year are actual budgets that were already in

3315
04:03:23,090 --> 04:03:26,050
budget in 2025. But the project will not be completed.

3316
04:03:27,237 --> 04:03:30,037
And so is being pushed forward into 2026 instead of

3317
04:03:30,037 --> 04:03:33,077
there being a carryover brought forward. To council in the

3318
04:03:33,077 --> 04:03:36,663
spring. Is there any budget request that council would like

3319
04:03:36,663 --> 04:03:40,543
to discuss further? Thank you for that, clarification. On those

3320
04:03:40,543 --> 04:03:43,623
items. I think that's just good clarification because I know

3321
04:03:43,623 --> 04:03:45,463
that those are items that we approved in the past

3322
04:03:45,463 --> 04:03:48,023
and there just haven't been distributed out. Yet at this

3323
04:03:48,023 --> 04:03:53,671
particular point in time. Councilor Lovegrove, please. Thanks, you, worship.

3324
04:03:53,671 --> 04:03:58,431
A couple of questions, actually. Page 254, the performance indicator.

3325
04:03:58,431 --> 04:04:03,831
Number four community theater average. Phil is the estimated 2025

3326
04:04:03,831 --> 04:04:06,871
fill rate lower because of memorial cup in DC Lions,

3327
04:04:06,871 --> 04:04:14,957
page 254 sorry, the. Performance indicator. Four. Is that expected

3328
04:04:14,957 --> 04:04:17,117
to dip? Because we've got the big events coming to

3329
04:04:17,117 --> 04:04:22,623
town number four. Mr. Gabriel, we have someone behind you

3330
04:04:22,623 --> 04:04:26,835
who could maybe help with that question. So the question

3331
04:04:26,835 --> 04:04:29,195
again, please. The question is, why would it go from

3332
04:04:29,195 --> 04:04:37,053
66.6 actual 2024? To a forecast 61.6%. 2025. Christine, please.

3333
04:04:37,053 --> 04:04:39,573
Or maybe that's a CCMA. Actually, that's this year. That's.

3334
04:04:39,573 --> 04:04:43,762
Not next year, your worship, this is only at. Clone

3335
04:04:43,762 --> 04:04:46,282
community theater. So those events you're speaking of are not

3336
04:04:46,282 --> 04:04:49,682
impacting the clunky. Theater. The reason is that the fill

3337
04:04:49,682 --> 04:04:54,162
rate decreases when we have more rentals, so more space

3338
04:04:54,162 --> 04:04:58,712
becomes available. So the rental number needs to be considered

3339
04:04:58,712 --> 04:05:01,152
with the number of rentals needs to be considered. Because

3340
04:05:01,152 --> 04:05:04,272
there's more tickets available for sale, so it slightly decreases

3341
04:05:04,272 --> 04:05:07,192
when we have more rentals oh, interesting. So this year

3342
04:05:07,192 --> 04:05:09,272
was a great year for rentals. Just didn't have as

3343
04:05:09,272 --> 04:05:14,617
many sellout crowds. Your worship. 67% fill rate means that

3344
04:05:14,617 --> 04:05:18,977
across all bookings, across the whole entire theater, 67%. Of

3345
04:05:18,977 --> 04:05:20,777
the seeds are sold, which is actually quite a high

3346
04:05:20,777 --> 04:05:23,177
fill rate considering we have a large number of community

3347
04:05:23,177 --> 04:05:25,737
events that might have three or 400. So it depends

3348
04:05:25,737 --> 04:05:27,977
what those additional rentals would have been, that might have

3349
04:05:27,977 --> 04:05:30,297
lowered the fill rate, might have been a 300 rental,

3350
04:05:30,297 --> 04:05:33,688
which now brings it slightly down. Overall, we have a

3351
04:05:33,688 --> 04:05:37,208
very strong fill rate and a strong rental in the

3352
04:05:37,208 --> 04:05:40,728
theater. Certainly meeting the target in 2024, but dipping in

3353
04:05:40,728 --> 04:05:44,448
2025, which is this year, actually, so I probably shouldn't

3354
04:05:44,448 --> 04:05:47,408
wait for 2026, which forecasts calling them back up again.

3355
04:05:48,760 --> 04:05:51,429
I was noticing a dip. Not to believe or the

3356
04:05:51,429 --> 04:05:55,497
point. Let's move on, if that's okay. The city's signature

3357
04:05:55,497 --> 04:05:59,819
sign. This is an enhance, and I'm wondering if we

3358
04:05:59,819 --> 04:06:03,715
should start this one. Your worship. Council is already approved

3359
04:06:03,715 --> 04:06:10,166
it. 's one of the ones that Melanie was speaking

3360
04:06:10,166 --> 04:06:12,166
about that it's just bringing it forward into budget for

3361
04:06:12,166 --> 04:06:14,526
this year, but it's already been approved and we begun

3362
04:06:14,526 --> 04:06:17,806
commissioning and design on the project. Commissioning design, but we

3363
04:06:17,806 --> 04:06:22,135
haven't actually approved construction yet. You've passed resolution to give

3364
04:06:22,135 --> 04:06:26,535
counsel or give staff direction to proceed. Yes. Okay, then,

3365
04:06:26,535 --> 04:06:33,178
I guess. Appreciate that. Thank you, Mr. City manager. The

3366
04:06:33,178 --> 04:06:36,578
$100,000 for the Colonial Performing Arts center. So that's page

3367
04:06:36,578 --> 04:06:40,969
two. 60. It's just a feasibility study. Given what we

3368
04:06:40,969 --> 04:06:46,803
just passed earlier. We're not going to design. That's only

3369
04:06:46,803 --> 04:06:51,277
$100,000. That's all we need for 2026. You might have

3370
04:06:51,277 --> 04:06:59,039
to repeat the question. The $100,000 on the Colonial performing

3371
04:06:59,039 --> 04:07:02,039
arts center seems a little light. I thought, based on

3372
04:07:02,039 --> 04:07:04,919
what we had approved as a council. We were going

3373
04:07:04,919 --> 04:07:07,679
closer to design. Is it just a feasibility study business

3374
04:07:07,679 --> 04:07:11,219
case, and that's only. All we need is $100,000. That's

3375
04:07:11,219 --> 04:07:14,790
what it is. Correct. Just for the continuing on what?

3376
04:07:14,790 --> 04:07:19,532
The feasibility study. Okay. And then, Mr. City manager, I'm

3377
04:07:19,532 --> 04:07:22,412
going to stand and be corrected on this last question.

3378
04:07:22,412 --> 04:07:26,201
And that is. The North City entry monument. Is that

3379
04:07:26,201 --> 04:07:28,681
one that we've already approved? That's correct. Both of the

3380
04:07:28,681 --> 04:07:30,521
same, and I will just back right off. Thank you,

3381
04:07:30,521 --> 04:07:36,749
worship. Thank you, councilor. Cannon, please. Just on the city's

3382
04:07:36,749 --> 04:07:41,349
signature signage last year was 500,000, covering design, fabrication, insulation,

3383
04:07:41,349 --> 04:07:47,147
permits and other associated costs. So now it's 900,000. You

3384
04:07:47,147 --> 04:07:51,242
correct, your worship, the sign itself. Is within the budget

3385
04:07:51,242 --> 04:07:54,702
that was originally presented. As it's being built out. We

3386
04:07:54,702 --> 04:07:57,302
were doing a bunch of flat work and prep around.

3387
04:07:57,302 --> 04:07:59,822
The area to expand the footprint where it can be

3388
04:07:59,822 --> 04:08:04,478
placed. So. That's the preparation work and the work surrounding

3389
04:08:04,478 --> 04:08:09,434
it in Stewart Park. Mr. Sas, please. Thank you, your

3390
04:08:09,434 --> 04:08:11,514
worship. Just to provide a little bit more of an

3391
04:08:11,514 --> 04:08:18,496
overview. That, Mel provided we're in the middle of changing

3392
04:08:18,496 --> 04:08:23,275
our capital plan to operate more like. Our operating plan,

3393
04:08:23,275 --> 04:08:26,395
where, with our quarterly amendments and cash flow reporting, the

3394
04:08:26,395 --> 04:08:31,075
budget updates kind of automatically through those processes as we

3395
04:08:31,075 --> 04:08:32,875
are kind of in the middle of switching to cash

3396
04:08:32,875 --> 04:08:36,235
flow from a capital perspective. Some of these items that

3397
04:08:36,235 --> 04:08:38,835
you are seeing today are actually a function of that

3398
04:08:38,835 --> 04:08:41,955
which is we had too much budget in last year,

3399
04:08:41,955 --> 04:08:45,287
not. Enough in next year. And so these requests are

3400
04:08:45,287 --> 04:08:48,887
actually just moving budget from this year into next. Year

3401
04:08:48,887 --> 04:08:51,887
to facilitate that cash flow. Next year, this will not

3402
04:08:51,887 --> 04:08:54,887
be an issue, as we will be. Fully onboarded with

3403
04:08:54,887 --> 04:08:57,607
the capital cash flow, but that's what you're seeing. What's?

3404
04:08:57,607 --> 04:08:59,487
Causing a little bit of confusion right now. I hope

3405
04:08:59,487 --> 04:09:04,104
that clarifies. City manager, please. And one other point, because

3406
04:09:04,104 --> 04:09:06,184
I can anticipate the question coming. When will we see

3407
04:09:06,184 --> 04:09:11,235
this infrastructure in place. We are hopeful for next summer

3408
04:09:11,235 --> 04:09:13,635
for both of these signatures or both these signs that

3409
04:09:13,635 --> 04:09:18,138
council is approved. Just on last year. I had looked

3410
04:09:18,138 --> 04:09:21,298
at last year's budget. We had approved 1.3 million for

3411
04:09:21,298 --> 04:09:24,538
place making. I had note that 850,000 of that was.

3412
04:09:25,916 --> 04:09:28,076
For the entrance sign. So I'm just wondering what the

3413
04:09:28,076 --> 04:09:36,423
1.3 million was used. For then. Mr. Edstrom, please.

3414
04:09:41,718 --> 04:09:47,617
Your worship as to. The 1.35. I'd have to get

3415
04:09:47,617 --> 04:09:51,017
a bit more detail. I can confirm the. $850,000 for

3416
04:09:51,017 --> 04:09:55,349
the north end monument remains the same. Yeah. You want

3417
04:09:55,349 --> 04:09:57,429
to look at page 252 of last year's budget? I

3418
04:09:57,429 --> 04:09:58,789
don't have. Last year's budget right in front of me.

3419
04:09:58,789 --> 04:10:01,189
Right now, I have to finance I'm assuming it is

3420
04:10:01,189 --> 04:10:08,292
850 plus $500. 1.3 million was for because. Duplicate, I

3421
04:10:08,292 --> 04:10:11,132
thought was $500,000 for the one sign and 850 for

3422
04:10:11,132 --> 04:10:13,692
the other. That was 1.3 million. But now we've got

3423
04:10:13,692 --> 04:10:16,772
separate entries for both of those, which is another 1.3

3424
04:10:16,772 --> 04:10:24,236
million. Mr. Sass. Thank you. Maybe you can give us

3425
04:10:24,236 --> 04:10:26,676
a moment. The team's currently digging into last year's. Budget

3426
04:10:26,676 --> 04:10:29,156
and doing it on the fly. Reconciliation, 1 second. And

3427
04:10:29,156 --> 04:10:33,036
the last question is colonial. Performing arts center, so 100,000.

3428
04:10:34,828 --> 04:10:36,828
That's for your task force. And do you have a

3429
04:10:36,828 --> 04:10:41,289
budget already? Your budget that you had some allocated before.

3430
04:10:43,659 --> 04:10:46,299
For the task force for the new Performing Arts Center.

3431
04:10:49,299 --> 04:10:55,267
The amount of capital that this council approved. Was. Million

3432
04:10:55,267 --> 04:10:59,282
dollar amount. In order to do the preliminary stages of.

3433
04:11:00,960 --> 04:11:05,717
That process. Rate at this particular point in time. The

3434
04:11:05,717 --> 04:11:09,717
only cost associated that we've used is the cost associated

3435
04:11:09,717 --> 04:11:16,327
with reverie architecture assisting us. In coming with the plans

3436
04:11:16,327 --> 04:11:20,386
that came before council earlier this week. Which is a

3437
04:11:20,386 --> 04:11:23,806
very small percentage of that amount of money. So I'm

3438
04:11:23,806 --> 04:11:26,726
just wondering. You used that million. That was for capital

3439
04:11:26,726 --> 04:11:30,949
for no. I'll let the city. No, it was not.

3440
04:11:30,949 --> 04:11:33,709
That was something that council approved and came. To council

3441
04:11:33,709 --> 04:11:37,109
in great depth, but that million was for design and

3442
04:11:37,109 --> 04:11:39,549
architectural work. When we get to that stage, and we're

3443
04:11:39,549 --> 04:11:41,269
not anywhere near that stage at this point in time.

3444
04:11:43,032 --> 04:11:44,792
So I guess what money had we been using then

3445
04:11:44,792 --> 04:11:48,192
to pay for revelery? We've. Been drawing on the approved

3446
04:11:48,192 --> 04:11:52,312
money by council, so we drew on that million to

3447
04:11:52,312 --> 04:11:55,912
pay reverie. But there's still substantial amount left because wherever

3448
04:11:55,912 --> 04:11:58,152
we was not doing the design, they were doing conceptual

3449
04:11:58,152 --> 04:12:00,472
work, and that's where this request would be funded from.

3450
04:12:01,844 --> 04:12:08,703
Thanks. Mr. Sass, please. Thank you, your worship. And thanks

3451
04:12:08,703 --> 04:12:11,943
to the finance team putting the little quick reconciliation together.

3452
04:12:13,835 --> 04:12:17,915
So the 1.3 million for place making included four projects.

3453
04:12:17,915 --> 04:12:20,635
One of them was to do with the art walk.

3454
04:12:22,224 --> 04:12:26,312
Noel's Heritage park. There were some funds. To start the

3455
04:12:26,312 --> 04:12:31,146
crane workers memorial. North End City monument for 850,000, which

3456
04:12:31,146 --> 04:12:35,577
is what you see here. As well as. Some design

3457
04:12:35,577 --> 04:12:39,457
money for 250,000 for the Stuart park signature sign at

3458
04:12:39,457 --> 04:12:42,938
that time. Excuse me, council, your lights not on? You

3459
04:12:42,938 --> 04:12:45,698
have request for 850 for reserves for the north end.

3460
04:12:45,698 --> 04:12:52,899
Entrance. You had it in last year's budget. Thank you.

3461
04:12:54,887 --> 04:13:02,086
Thank you, your worship. Yeah. As we just discussed. That

3462
04:13:02,086 --> 04:13:04,006
cash flow is being moved from last year to this

3463
04:13:04,006 --> 04:13:07,028
year. Sorry. From this year to next year is what

3464
04:13:07,028 --> 04:13:09,388
I should say, which in the future will not. Show

3465
04:13:09,388 --> 04:13:11,628
as it ends up being there, changing the accounting structure.

3466
04:13:11,628 --> 04:13:13,748
So it's just kind of like a flow through overcrossed.

3467
04:13:16,577 --> 04:13:25,258
Seeing. No further questions. Thank you. Mr. Gabriel. Thank you

3468
04:13:25,258 --> 04:13:31,356
very much. To you and to the whole team for

3469
04:13:31,356 --> 04:13:34,916
everything that we have been doing. We definitely know that.

3470
04:13:34,916 --> 04:13:38,396
We have been putting some weight upon your shoulders with

3471
04:13:38,396 --> 04:13:40,876
regards to the activation that has been happening. Within the

3472
04:13:40,876 --> 04:13:44,915
community. And on behalf of myself and on behalf of

3473
04:13:44,915 --> 04:13:48,195
council, truly appreciate all the teamwork that is. Being done

3474
04:13:48,195 --> 04:13:51,566
to make those events successful. Thank you very much. Mr.

3475
04:13:51,566 --> 04:13:57,686
Smith. Good afternoon, your worshiping council. The community development service

3476
04:13:57,686 --> 04:14:01,366
area is made up of four distinct teams that span

3477
04:14:01,366 --> 04:14:05,726
two divisions. Mr. Gabriel's division in my division. They include

3478
04:14:05,726 --> 04:14:08,846
a climate and environment team, the housing policy and programs

3479
04:14:08,846 --> 04:14:12,406
team, the social development team, and the long range planning

3480
04:14:12,406 --> 04:14:16,579
team. And I'll give you an overview of what they

3481
04:14:16,579 --> 04:14:20,245
do and where they're headed. Today in budget. Some key

3482
04:14:20,245 --> 04:14:25,525
accomplishments from the 2015 year across these teams. With the

3483
04:14:25,525 --> 04:14:30,131
completion of the north end plan, The establishment of internal

3484
04:14:30,131 --> 04:14:33,451
and external working groups to support the implementation of the

3485
04:14:33,451 --> 04:14:39,119
climate resilient colonial plan. The delivery of. 60 rapid transitional

3486
04:14:39,119 --> 04:14:42,791
housing units under the Harden Hearth program. Partnered with the

3487
04:14:42,791 --> 04:14:45,951
province for a total of 180 units, and I'd be

3488
04:14:45,951 --> 04:14:48,551
remiss. If I didn't point out that the three sites,

3489
04:14:48,551 --> 04:14:51,796
each 60 units, Were all provided by the city of

3490
04:14:51,796 --> 04:14:58,170
Kelowna on our land. We also initiated the community information

3491
04:14:58,170 --> 04:15:03,011
library, community housing information library. Project a streamlined and update

3492
04:15:03,011 --> 04:15:06,571
city housing data practices, including the housing dashboard. So we

3493
04:15:06,571 --> 04:15:10,291
now have a robust housing dashboard on our website to

3494
04:15:10,291 --> 04:15:14,915
track our housing stats. And in terms of being able

3495
04:15:14,915 --> 04:15:17,715
to report out on those and make progress and report

3496
04:15:17,715 --> 04:15:20,715
on progress. Whether we're making progress or have challenges in

3497
04:15:20,715 --> 04:15:24,435
some areas in direct future policy, it's. A fantastic tool

3498
04:15:24,435 --> 04:15:26,675
and one of the more robust dashboards in the country.

3499
04:15:28,331 --> 04:15:34,966
In terms of continuous improvement. The social development team is

3500
04:15:34,966 --> 04:15:39,822
looking at. Basically a lot of their data right now

3501
04:15:39,822 --> 04:15:42,902
from shelters is a good example, comes from VC housing.

3502
04:15:45,994 --> 04:15:49,434
Or different nonprofits, and so an effort to ensure that

3503
04:15:49,434 --> 04:15:52,674
they're getting good quality data. Across the social service sector.

3504
04:15:54,265 --> 04:15:57,145
Is a major focus for the year ahead, as well

3505
04:15:57,145 --> 04:16:00,105
as advanced planning for extreme weather and disaster. Driven events

3506
04:16:00,105 --> 04:16:04,426
to ensure vulnerable populations are cared for. Expanding and improving

3507
04:16:04,426 --> 04:16:08,546
on indicators to support better measurement of climate environmental performance.

3508
04:16:08,546 --> 04:16:12,306
Our climate environment team launched a dashboard to track the

3509
04:16:12,306 --> 04:16:16,426
implementation of the climate resilient colonial plan this year and

3510
04:16:16,426 --> 04:16:19,026
to ensure that we can report out and provide community

3511
04:16:19,026 --> 04:16:24,331
transparency long term. Increasing across those initiatives. Better dashboard data

3512
04:16:24,331 --> 04:16:29,174
is a major priority. Also, we have a final bullet

3513
04:16:29,174 --> 04:16:32,134
seeking funding sources to advance key initiatives and expand departmental

3514
04:16:32,134 --> 04:16:35,254
resources. Sounds a little nebulous. And it's a fancy way

3515
04:16:35,254 --> 04:16:40,781
of saying keeping. An eye on grant opportunities that are

3516
04:16:40,781 --> 04:16:44,341
available out there, whether that is the housing accelerator fund

3517
04:16:44,341 --> 04:16:47,421
for example that can help support the various operations of

3518
04:16:47,421 --> 04:16:51,815
our teams without putting that cost on the taxpayer. In

3519
04:16:51,815 --> 04:16:54,575
terms of performance measures through these teams. I'm just going

3520
04:16:54,575 --> 04:16:59,708
to highlight a couple. Under performance measure two greenhouse gas

3521
04:16:59,708 --> 04:17:03,387
emissions. We can see the per capita emissions. Starting to

3522
04:17:03,387 --> 04:17:06,107
go down. I would note that there's always a lag

3523
04:17:06,107 --> 04:17:09,027
in this data. Through our consultants. And so this is

3524
04:17:09,027 --> 04:17:11,547
normal that we're only reporting out on 2022? To this

3525
04:17:11,547 --> 04:17:17,227
point. You can also see. Again. Some overall gyps during

3526
04:17:17,227 --> 04:17:21,547
the Covid period, where there was certainly less traffic on

3527
04:17:21,547 --> 04:17:26,941
our roads. In terms of overall growth in the OCP,

3528
04:17:26,941 --> 04:17:30,781
if you look at performance measure three, making sure that

3529
04:17:30,781 --> 04:17:34,382
our growth. Growth is predominantly happening in our urban centers.

3530
04:17:34,382 --> 04:17:36,964
In core area. We're right on target, if not a

3531
04:17:36,964 --> 04:17:39,924
little bit above for that performance measure, which means the

3532
04:17:39,924 --> 04:17:43,884
OCP is working. A lot of the growth, whether it's

3533
04:17:43,884 --> 04:17:48,106
residential or commercial or industrial. That councils and staff work

3534
04:17:48,106 --> 04:17:50,826
towards is going in the right spots and is consistent

3535
04:17:50,826 --> 04:18:00,101
with that plan. From a new housing standpoint, which would

3536
04:18:00,101 --> 04:18:05,474
be performance measure five. Interesting data here and trying to

3537
04:18:05,474 --> 04:18:09,208
make sure that. We track how much of our new

3538
04:18:09,208 --> 04:18:12,848
housing is of what type, and when we look at

3539
04:18:12,848 --> 04:18:14,608
this is more economy driven than anything we look at.

3540
04:18:16,213 --> 04:18:20,053
2025 estimate going up from 76% to 84% and then

3541
04:18:20,053 --> 04:18:24,540
to a 90% forecast. That really shows right now that

3542
04:18:24,540 --> 04:18:27,620
a lot of our housing is apartment housing that's being

3543
04:18:27,620 --> 04:18:31,980
delivered because it's heavily incentivized through all three levels of

3544
04:18:31,980 --> 04:18:37,717
government. And what we're not seeing there is. Much infill

3545
04:18:37,717 --> 04:18:41,517
single family like small multifamily construction going on because it

3546
04:18:41,517 --> 04:18:44,197
doesn't have the same incentives in place. So not a

3547
04:18:44,197 --> 04:18:48,835
bad thing, just an interesting characteristic of the data. Moving.

3548
04:18:50,486 --> 04:18:55,659
Into performance, measure six. Individuals transitioning from hardheart sites to

3549
04:18:55,659 --> 04:18:59,379
support if housing or market housing. Again, this is a

3550
04:18:59,379 --> 04:19:02,339
performance measure that really related to the importance of getting

3551
04:19:02,339 --> 04:19:06,099
good data from our social services sector in BC housing.

3552
04:19:06,099 --> 04:19:07,539
And I just wanted to point out an example of

3553
04:19:07,539 --> 04:19:10,219
that. These performance measures get better. And the information that

3554
04:19:10,219 --> 04:19:12,739
we can give counsel and make decisions on the future

3555
04:19:12,739 --> 04:19:14,938
gets better when. That gets better. So again, it's something

3556
04:19:14,938 --> 04:19:18,037
that we're looking to improve on all the time. And

3557
04:19:18,037 --> 04:19:25,876
then performance measure seven. Would be people experiencing. Unsheltered homelessness.

3558
04:19:25,876 --> 04:19:29,356
And key messages on that front right now is there's

3559
04:19:29,356 --> 04:19:34,517
1100 beds in Kelowna that span. From like a rapid

3560
04:19:34,517 --> 04:19:39,077
housing, shelter type housing all the way to transitional housing

3561
04:19:39,077 --> 04:19:42,913
and sort of everything. In between. And so a lot

3562
04:19:42,913 --> 04:19:45,233
of heavy lifting has been done in Kelowna over the

3563
04:19:45,233 --> 04:19:47,393
last few years to ensure there's a lot of housing

3564
04:19:47,393 --> 04:19:51,334
options in that area. And more to do on that

3565
04:19:51,334 --> 04:19:54,416
front as well. So I'm going to hand it back

3566
04:19:54,416 --> 04:20:01,581
over to Mel. Thank you. The community development service area

3567
04:20:01,581 --> 04:20:06,901
has an expenditure budget of $5.4 million for 2026. And

3568
04:20:06,901 --> 04:20:10,917
operates under four cost centers. The funding for the community

3569
04:20:10,917 --> 04:20:15,477
development is predominantly property taxes, with some from reserves, other

3570
04:20:15,477 --> 04:20:24,845
revenues and grants. 2025 revised budget was $5,171,000. After annualizing

3571
04:20:24,845 --> 04:20:31,285
previously approved requests, we're going to start 2026 at $4,644,000.

3572
04:20:33,094 --> 04:20:38,974
To maintain current service levels, an additional $336,000 is requested.

3573
04:20:38,974 --> 04:20:45,118
And to enhance service levels an additional 409,000. Is requested.

3574
04:20:46,768 --> 04:20:50,888
Service area has two priority one operating requests on page

3575
04:20:50,888 --> 04:20:58,937
276. First one for climate. And environment initiatives at $403,000,

3576
04:20:58,937 --> 04:21:02,897
which is funded from local government climate Action program funding.

3577
04:21:04,448 --> 04:21:10,448
And the second being 37,000 in 2026, increasing to 47,027,

3578
04:21:10,448 --> 04:21:16,328
then 57,000. Ongoing for the neighborhood association affiliation program funded

3579
04:21:16,328 --> 04:21:21,426
from taxation. This area of this area has no priority

3580
04:21:21,426 --> 04:21:26,106
one capital request and has one priority two request for

3581
04:21:26,106 --> 04:21:30,746
community Social development grant, an increase of $50,000 in 2026.

3582
04:21:33,148 --> 04:21:39,668
Increasing to $100,000 in 2027, then $150,000 in 2028. Ongoing.

3583
04:21:41,100 --> 04:21:43,580
Are there any priority one or priority two requests that

3584
04:21:43,580 --> 04:21:49,117
council would like to discuss? Councilor Stack, please. Thank you.

3585
04:21:49,117 --> 04:21:51,677
Your wish just goes back to the performance measures. Is

3586
04:21:51,677 --> 04:21:54,877
that right? So thanks, Ryan, for your report. I just

3587
04:21:54,877 --> 04:21:58,037
want to circle back to your comments on performance measure

3588
04:21:58,037 --> 04:22:02,597
number five, which is. Providing diverse housing options, and I

3589
04:22:02,597 --> 04:22:06,077
had flagged that one as we're looking to 2026. At

3590
04:22:06,077 --> 04:22:09,333
90% rental and I'd never thought these. Words would come

3591
04:22:09,333 --> 04:22:12,373
out of my mouth, but is that too much rental

3592
04:22:12,373 --> 04:22:14,533
in our city? I mean. We've been short for like,

3593
04:22:14,533 --> 04:22:17,093
20 years, but anyway. But when I see it hitting

3594
04:22:17,093 --> 04:22:20,573
90%, and that is a significant number. And I just

3595
04:22:20,573 --> 04:22:26,115
wondered if this indicator. Will then trigger us to review

3596
04:22:26,115 --> 04:22:28,875
some of our policies to see if they should be

3597
04:22:28,875 --> 04:22:33,398
modified in this next year for going forward. You, worship.

3598
04:22:33,398 --> 04:22:36,078
An astute question. And one that we're actually working on

3599
04:22:36,078 --> 04:22:39,138
right now. And when I say we're working on it,

3600
04:22:39,138 --> 04:22:43,098
we've been working on an infill. Barriers examination right now

3601
04:22:43,098 --> 04:22:46,890
to see. For that sort of anything that's less than

3602
04:22:46,890 --> 04:22:50,189
four units. What are barriers out there that are within

3603
04:22:50,189 --> 04:22:52,669
our control that we could bring forward to council to

3604
04:22:52,669 --> 04:22:57,426
discuss. Changes to those types of things, and so. That

3605
04:22:57,426 --> 04:23:00,746
will be Q one of 2026. That report coming for

3606
04:23:00,746 --> 04:23:05,161
council? Yeah, that's good. It's also. Great. Now that we

3607
04:23:05,161 --> 04:23:08,841
see these performance indicators, it's a really nice flag for

3608
04:23:08,841 --> 04:23:11,761
us to trigger us to do that very work, so

3609
04:23:11,761 --> 04:23:13,521
I'm glad to hear it's coming. Back in Q one.

3610
04:23:13,521 --> 04:23:21,633
Thank you. Councilor Lovegrove, please. Thanks, your worship. Actually, performance

3611
04:23:21,633 --> 04:23:24,513
indicators. Apparently that's subject to our questions. At least two

3612
04:23:24,513 --> 04:23:28,061
of my three. Can we at some point, given we've

3613
04:23:28,061 --> 04:23:31,381
got an urban forester and I believe in. One of

3614
04:23:31,381 --> 04:23:33,941
our previous reports. We were told there are going to

3615
04:23:33,941 --> 04:23:35,861
be some advanced tools we're going to use on urban

3616
04:23:35,861 --> 04:23:40,021
canopy. So indicator number one, this is page 264. Will

3617
04:23:40,021 --> 04:23:42,221
we at some point get year over year trends on

3618
04:23:42,221 --> 04:23:43,781
this. Do we know if they're going up? Down. We're

3619
04:23:43,781 --> 04:23:46,221
hopeful they're going up. That's our target. But how are

3620
04:23:46,221 --> 04:23:51,148
we. Doing? Your worship. Yeah, it's a tough measure, and

3621
04:23:51,148 --> 04:23:55,388
at this point, we've made a number of policy and

3622
04:23:55,388 --> 04:23:59,481
regulatory tweaks and what can actually continue to. And the

3623
04:23:59,481 --> 04:24:04,388
next steps would be like regular lidar. Reporting on that

3624
04:24:04,388 --> 04:24:07,188
analysis and reporting so that we could give counsel year

3625
04:24:07,188 --> 04:24:10,108
over year, or at least sort of every other year

3626
04:24:10,108 --> 04:24:12,508
data on that. That's not long term. So we're not

3627
04:24:12,508 --> 04:24:17,096
measuring out to 2050. We're seeing it and can track

3628
04:24:17,096 --> 04:24:19,696
areas where we're challenged and areas where we're making progress.

3629
04:24:20,900 --> 04:24:24,620
And so with the changes we've made and are making,

3630
04:24:24,620 --> 04:24:26,620
start to see progress over the next three or four

3631
04:24:26,620 --> 04:24:31,079
years. As new roads get built and they put in

3632
04:24:31,079 --> 04:24:33,839
more trees on the public right of way as new

3633
04:24:33,839 --> 04:24:36,719
developments occur and their tree planting requirements are higher than

3634
04:24:36,719 --> 04:24:39,199
in the past. For example. Thank you. Mr. Smith and

3635
04:24:39,199 --> 04:24:41,839
I think Chris just stood up to assist with regards

3636
04:24:41,839 --> 04:24:43,999
to some of the answers. On that question, councilor? Yeah,

3637
04:24:43,999 --> 04:24:46,319
you're worship. I'll just say that our team. Has come

3638
04:24:46,319 --> 04:24:48,279
and working with urban forestry is committed to kind of.

3639
04:24:48,612 --> 04:24:51,452
A three to five year cadence on the data for

3640
04:24:51,452 --> 04:24:55,909
urban updating. The urban forest canopy. It's expensive data to

3641
04:24:55,909 --> 04:24:58,669
get, so. Pretty onerous process. I think last time we

3642
04:24:58,669 --> 04:25:03,549
spent upwards of over $100,000, $120,000 to get the data

3643
04:25:03,549 --> 04:25:05,589
through Lidar. And then analyze it. So right now, we're

3644
04:25:05,589 --> 04:25:07,229
kind of committing more to that three to five year

3645
04:25:07,229 --> 04:25:10,469
time. I understand. Okay. Thanks. This is going to be

3646
04:25:10,469 --> 04:25:12,909
my next is when, and so. Basically, I'm hearing three

3647
04:25:12,909 --> 04:25:15,322
years from now. But once we get. The data. I

3648
04:25:15,322 --> 04:25:17,402
sure hope it's a lot less expensive. Keep it up.

3649
04:25:19,154 --> 04:25:21,977
Is that a fair comment? Okay? Yes, I think so.

3650
04:25:21,977 --> 04:25:25,435
All right, thanks. So, second question, you, worship. Hold on.

3651
04:25:27,204 --> 04:25:32,011
There it is on number two. Perhaps don't sit down

3652
04:25:32,011 --> 04:25:35,971
too quickly because. The community. Greenhouse gas emissions. I apologize.

3653
04:25:37,466 --> 04:25:42,386
Everything else we've had the 2023 actual. 2024 actual 2025.

3654
04:25:42,386 --> 04:25:46,186
2026 27. Forecast. Is this just because it's coming from

3655
04:25:46,186 --> 04:25:48,586
the province that we can't show? That we don't even

3656
04:25:48,586 --> 04:25:54,067
have estimates. Correct, your worship? Yeah. As Mr. Smith mentioned,

3657
04:25:54,067 --> 04:25:56,387
the data is to your leg behind. We get our

3658
04:25:56,387 --> 04:25:58,747
data from the community. Energy and emissions inventory, which comes

3659
04:25:58,747 --> 04:26:02,147
from the province. BC we're luckier than most provinces. In

3660
04:26:02,147 --> 04:26:05,187
that we actually get data at the community level for

3661
04:26:05,187 --> 04:26:08,427
emissions. But it is a two year leg. And unfortunately,

3662
04:26:08,427 --> 04:26:10,107
we're kind of at the hands of the province on

3663
04:26:10,107 --> 04:26:15,496
that. All right. So I guess. Forego a question on

3664
04:26:15,496 --> 04:26:19,602
trends. Last question, you, worship. And this is actually a

3665
04:26:19,602 --> 04:26:21,482
p two question. I can hold off until we get

3666
04:26:21,482 --> 04:26:24,002
there if you'd. Like, but I do have a question

3667
04:26:24,002 --> 04:26:30,886
on page 278. As show. It'll be presented after the

3668
04:26:30,886 --> 04:26:39,369
py. Wait, please. Yes, thanks. Thank you. Please only. This

3669
04:26:39,369 --> 04:26:44,224
service area has one priority two request. The Community Social

3670
04:26:44,224 --> 04:26:50,455
Development grant. For $50,000 in 2026, increased to $100,000 in

3671
04:26:50,455 --> 04:26:57,977
2027 and then $150,000 in 2028. Ongoing councilor. As I

3672
04:26:57,977 --> 04:27:02,112
read this. It sure seemed like this should be a

3673
04:27:02,112 --> 04:27:07,336
maintained because in the past five years. We've had 118%

3674
04:27:07,336 --> 04:27:10,616
overspend, and we want to maintain that level of service.

3675
04:27:11,781 --> 04:27:15,261
We're just recognizing the actual cost. So I'm just wondering

3676
04:27:15,261 --> 04:27:18,221
why, number one, this is an enhance. And if we

3677
04:27:18,221 --> 04:27:20,621
know we're going to be there next year, should we

3678
04:27:20,621 --> 04:27:22,341
just bump it up right now. So I guess I'm

3679
04:27:22,341 --> 04:27:25,261
asking, should we start this for. Discussion later on. Councilor,

3680
04:27:25,261 --> 04:27:27,981
are you making a request to start? Do we have

3681
04:27:27,981 --> 04:27:37,910
a seconder? Question first. Sorry, apologies. So, councilor, you're going

3682
04:27:37,910 --> 04:27:40,270
to have to probably ask the question one more time,

3683
04:27:40,270 --> 04:27:42,390
because I don't think it was picked up as I

3684
04:27:42,390 --> 04:27:48,282
read this. On the second line. Of that description said,

3685
04:27:48,282 --> 04:27:50,842
it's just recognized. In the past five years, we basically

3686
04:27:50,842 --> 04:27:54,922
had 118 overspend. So to me this is more of

3687
04:27:54,922 --> 04:27:58,562
a maintain ask where we just recognizing the previous cost

3688
04:27:58,562 --> 04:28:01,082
overruns and let's plan for it instead of react to

3689
04:28:01,082 --> 04:28:04,907
it. So is that a fair comment that this is

3690
04:28:04,907 --> 04:28:08,587
really a maintain ask? You worked here just for clarity.

3691
04:28:08,587 --> 04:28:11,907
The 118% over is what been asked for. It's not

3692
04:28:11,907 --> 04:28:14,627
what's been. Provided. So we have a base budget within

3693
04:28:14,627 --> 04:28:17,267
our grant, and that's what we work within. And on

3694
04:28:17,267 --> 04:28:19,867
a regular basis. We get like with most grant areas,

3695
04:28:19,867 --> 04:28:22,027
you get more asks than what you're able to provide.

3696
04:28:22,990 --> 04:28:24,790
So that just forces us to kind of relook at

3697
04:28:24,790 --> 04:28:27,830
our priorities and make sure that we're deling them in.

3698
04:28:27,830 --> 04:28:31,310
I misread that. I understand. So you're. Getting asked to

3699
04:28:31,310 --> 04:28:36,150
give money at 118 above what you've been funded. Okay,

3700
04:28:36,150 --> 04:28:38,590
so then I. Will withdraw that request. Thank you so

3701
04:28:38,590 --> 04:28:41,310
much. Thank you, council. Cand is this around the p

3702
04:28:41,310 --> 04:28:43,446
two or just wanted to know what? The base budget

3703
04:28:43,446 --> 04:28:45,952
is. If I could, please.

3704
04:28:53,453 --> 04:29:03,109
231,000. Yeah. You, worship. The base budget is $231,000. Thank

3705
04:29:03,109 --> 04:29:06,983
you. Seeing no further comments. We can just move on.

3706
04:29:06,983 --> 04:29:09,663
I'm just going to make one comment. With regards to

3707
04:29:09,663 --> 04:29:17,095
performant measure number six. Obviously. The tiny homes, the heart

3708
04:29:17,095 --> 04:29:21,935
and hearth that we have in place within this community

3709
04:29:21,935 --> 04:29:26,344
to see. The actual success of that over the last

3710
04:29:26,344 --> 04:29:28,984
two years with regards to how it is moved forward.

3711
04:29:28,984 --> 04:29:32,884
Very grateful for that tracking. There has been some other

3712
04:29:32,884 --> 04:29:36,164
comments potentially made in the community that the success is

3713
04:29:36,164 --> 04:29:38,204
not as great. As it has been. So I'm very

3714
04:29:38,204 --> 04:29:41,044
grateful for that information to be there for us. So

3715
04:29:41,044 --> 04:29:46,738
thank you very much. Melanie, please. Next, we will move

3716
04:29:46,738 --> 04:29:52,048
into development services. This service area starts on page 279

3717
04:29:52,048 --> 04:29:56,890
of your budget volume. You worship. The development services service

3718
04:29:56,890 --> 04:30:00,410
area is comprised of building and permitting teams, development engineering

3719
04:30:00,410 --> 04:30:08,160
teams, and business licensing teams. They are one of the

3720
04:30:08,160 --> 04:30:10,440
busiest building departments and one of the most efficient building

3721
04:30:10,440 --> 04:30:13,600
departments in the country, and they're always excited to tell

3722
04:30:13,600 --> 04:30:22,255
you that. For. Their 2025 accomplishments, they implemented both a

3723
04:30:22,255 --> 04:30:27,330
new city works software program to replace legacy software. That

3724
04:30:27,330 --> 04:30:30,250
was about 35 years old, and so there was some

3725
04:30:30,250 --> 04:30:34,130
growing pains going along with that, that also included an

3726
04:30:34,130 --> 04:30:38,770
online building permit application submission portal allowing property owners to

3727
04:30:38,770 --> 04:30:44,302
submit building permit applications online. Onlinely as well as. Some

3728
04:30:44,302 --> 04:30:48,004
new payment options as well online. One of the other

3729
04:30:48,004 --> 04:30:51,884
services that we've moved online is our property information requests,

3730
04:30:51,884 --> 04:30:54,004
and so we've partnered with a third party service provider.

3731
04:30:55,848 --> 04:31:00,873
In a digital improvement to allow. Property related information to

3732
04:31:00,873 --> 04:31:05,325
be delivered. To mainly realtors, but sometimes banks and lawyers

3733
04:31:05,325 --> 04:31:08,929
in a more efficient way. And we are actually able

3734
04:31:08,929 --> 04:31:11,729
to redeploy staff within the division because of this digital

3735
04:31:11,729 --> 04:31:17,249
innovation to another area that required extra resources. So. Meaning

3736
04:31:17,249 --> 04:31:20,049
we're not coming to council for extra budget requests for

3737
04:31:20,049 --> 04:31:26,181
new bodies. One of the. Other highlights here is the

3738
04:31:26,181 --> 04:31:30,812
accreditation from the International Accreditation Service. For the building and

3739
04:31:30,812 --> 04:31:34,252
permitting team. I believe they remain the only accredited building

3740
04:31:34,252 --> 04:31:38,758
department in Canada and certainly. There are rigorous processes, and

3741
04:31:38,758 --> 04:31:43,038
attention to constantly reviewing and improving those processes goes a

3742
04:31:43,038 --> 04:31:44,678
long way, and shows in their service to our customers.

3743
04:31:46,216 --> 04:31:51,734
And finally. We had. Some key retirements. In that department

3744
04:31:51,734 --> 04:31:54,538
this year. And that led to a little bit of

3745
04:31:54,538 --> 04:31:57,898
reorganization and some succession planning that was necessary to be

3746
04:31:57,898 --> 04:32:02,147
done. So again, business has gone on through that division

3747
04:32:02,147 --> 04:32:04,467
without a blip, and we're not. Getting complaints about timelines.

3748
04:32:06,684 --> 04:32:10,699
In terms of continuous improvements. Update bylaws is a little

3749
04:32:10,699 --> 04:32:12,419
bit nebulous, but as a result of a lot of

3750
04:32:12,419 --> 04:32:18,068
the technology change. In the building and permanent team. We've

3751
04:32:18,068 --> 04:32:21,468
delayed the updates to various bylaws, and our building bylaw

3752
04:32:21,468 --> 04:32:23,228
would be one of them. So council could expect to

3753
04:32:23,228 --> 04:32:28,028
see that in 2026. And we've also updated some licensing

3754
04:32:28,028 --> 04:32:31,028
related bylaws and that started council saw one of those

3755
04:32:31,028 --> 04:32:34,055
in the last couple of weeks. In terms of policy

3756
04:32:34,055 --> 04:32:37,255
and procedures updates. Something that is ongoing is that provincial

3757
04:32:37,255 --> 04:32:42,896
government changed. Their legislation related to how and when DCCs

3758
04:32:42,896 --> 04:32:46,976
are collected as an incentive to development, which has required

3759
04:32:46,976 --> 04:32:49,656
some technology change and process change behind the scenes. So

3760
04:32:49,656 --> 04:32:51,376
that's an example of what we mean on that front?

3761
04:32:52,991 --> 04:32:58,197
And then. The software transition from our legacy software to

3762
04:32:58,197 --> 04:33:01,317
city works. I wish I could say that. Always smooth.

3763
04:33:01,317 --> 04:33:03,877
Sailing, but lots of little pieces that are getting resolved

3764
04:33:03,877 --> 04:33:06,317
behind the scenes. And one that I set out in

3765
04:33:06,317 --> 04:33:08,517
this week was an update on the financial reporting to

3766
04:33:08,517 --> 04:33:12,477
make sure that we're getting accurate financial reporting from the

3767
04:33:12,477 --> 04:33:15,765
new software system to our finance team. So that's delaying

3768
04:33:15,765 --> 04:33:18,925
some of the software implementation that will move into our

3769
04:33:18,925 --> 04:33:23,347
development planning team. That will happen next year. From a

3770
04:33:23,347 --> 04:33:26,433
performance measure standpoint. I'll touch on a couple of different

3771
04:33:26,433 --> 04:33:31,097
areas here. Fast track building permit program issuance for building

3772
04:33:31,097 --> 04:33:34,737
permits within two days. This is a service that differentiates

3773
04:33:34,737 --> 04:33:38,457
Kelowna from many other municipalities in British Columbia and Canada

3774
04:33:38,457 --> 04:33:41,777
is our ability to get those to get simple permits

3775
04:33:41,777 --> 04:33:44,297
out very quickly and not let them bug up our

3776
04:33:44,297 --> 04:33:48,063
system. When you look at. So that would be PM

3777
04:33:48,063 --> 04:33:52,423
number 03:00 p.m. number four. Business licenses issued within two

3778
04:33:52,423 --> 04:33:56,503
weeks. We see that a goal of over 80% there,

3779
04:33:56,503 --> 04:34:02,783
but hovering sort of between 75%, 70%. And the reason

3780
04:34:02,783 --> 04:34:05,503
for that is we have permit types that we've introduced

3781
04:34:05,503 --> 04:34:06,783
over the last few years that are a little bit

3782
04:34:06,783 --> 04:34:09,703
more labor intensive and so there's been more effort that

3783
04:34:09,703 --> 04:34:11,833
staff are putting into the review. And inspection. And a

3784
04:34:11,833 --> 04:34:15,353
good example would be short term rentals. And so getting

3785
04:34:15,353 --> 04:34:19,793
five or 600 short term rental license applications and making

3786
04:34:19,793 --> 04:34:23,273
sure that the parking spots are adequate, that there's been

3787
04:34:23,273 --> 04:34:26,273
a coordination with the province. The number of bedrooms is

3788
04:34:26,273 --> 04:34:27,793
right. We take a look at the floor plans for

3789
04:34:27,793 --> 04:34:31,611
the house. We have the right documentation from stratas. If

3790
04:34:31,611 --> 04:34:37,380
we need all that information. Slows down that issuance sometimes.

3791
04:34:37,380 --> 04:34:38,980
But by and large, we do get, if you look

3792
04:34:38,980 --> 04:34:41,740
at that number and put it in context. We get

3793
04:34:41,740 --> 04:34:45,660
between eleven and 12,000 business license applications. A year, so.

3794
04:34:47,448 --> 04:34:53,333
Having between 69 and 70%. Issued within two weeks. That's

3795
04:34:53,333 --> 04:34:59,334
a pretty. Good amount. And just on the development engineering

3796
04:34:59,334 --> 04:35:03,534
front, tracking like PM number six. Tracking the engineering drawings

3797
04:35:03,534 --> 04:35:09,297
approved within two submissions. Our development engineering manager is spending

3798
04:35:09,297 --> 04:35:11,777
quite a bit of time working with the consulting engineering

3799
04:35:11,777 --> 04:35:15,617
community to raise the quality of the submissions so that

3800
04:35:15,617 --> 04:35:18,217
we can approve them more quickly. It's been common in

3801
04:35:18,217 --> 04:35:22,777
the past for staff to do five, six, seven revisions

3802
04:35:22,777 --> 04:35:25,817
with a local civil engineer to get it to sort

3803
04:35:25,817 --> 04:35:29,392
of the level that. Staff need to approve those plans

3804
04:35:29,392 --> 04:35:32,110
and when we can do it. Into each of the

3805
04:35:32,110 --> 04:35:35,070
staff members, then we don't need to add resources to

3806
04:35:35,070 --> 04:35:37,310
the division. We can do more with fewer staff members

3807
04:35:37,310 --> 04:35:42,747
when there's fewer submissions or revisions necessary. The development services

3808
04:35:42,747 --> 04:35:48,107
service area has an expenditure budget of $7.6 million in

3809
04:35:48,107 --> 04:35:55,106
2026. And operates under five cost centers. The funding strategy

3810
04:35:55,106 --> 04:36:01,047
for. This service area is predominantly fees and charges. With

3811
04:36:01,047 --> 04:36:07,153
$1.2 million coming from transfers from reserves. The 2025 revised

3812
04:36:07,153 --> 04:36:15,617
budget was $7,441,000. After the annualization of previously approved budget

3813
04:36:15,617 --> 04:36:24,022
requests, we're starting 2026 with a budget of $7,208,000. To

3814
04:36:24,022 --> 04:36:29,659
maintain current service levels. This service area is requesting an

3815
04:36:29,659 --> 04:36:36,496
additional $368,000. And to enhance service levels, an additional $9,000.

3816
04:36:38,247 --> 04:36:42,247
This service area has no priority one or priority two

3817
04:36:42,247 --> 04:36:47,377
operating or capital request. Is there any questions that council

3818
04:36:47,377 --> 04:36:51,977
has for Mr. Smith? Thank you. Seeing no questions, please

3819
04:36:51,977 --> 04:36:57,611
move forward. Well, next we'll move into development planning. This

3820
04:36:57,611 --> 04:37:00,811
section starts on 287 of your budget volume.

3821
04:37:08,338 --> 04:37:10,938
The development planning service area is responsible for the review

3822
04:37:10,938 --> 04:37:16,338
and evaluation of new development related applications that involve sort

3823
04:37:16,338 --> 04:37:19,980
of the future planning of our city, so. That commonly

3824
04:37:19,980 --> 04:37:24,580
be rezoning development permit applications. Temporary use permit applications sometimes

3825
04:37:24,580 --> 04:37:28,560
changes to our official community plan. Maintenance of the zoning

3826
04:37:28,560 --> 04:37:35,425
bylaw, things like that. In terms of key accomplishments. The

3827
04:37:35,425 --> 04:37:39,834
development planning team. Worked with our zoning bylaw to help.

3828
04:37:42,008 --> 04:37:47,248
Put incentives in place to help facilitate rental housings along

3829
04:37:47,248 --> 04:37:51,168
with provincial and federal programs. We've seen the vacancy rate

3830
04:37:51,168 --> 04:37:53,968
increase to 3% this past year than the last reporting

3831
04:37:53,968 --> 04:37:57,083
period, and it's likely to rise again. In the next

3832
04:37:57,083 --> 04:37:59,283
reporting period, which I'm told will be in the next

3833
04:37:59,283 --> 04:38:03,431
few weeks. We've actually changed our planner of the day

3834
04:38:03,431 --> 04:38:07,951
and planning tech role in the department to reduce some

3835
04:38:07,951 --> 04:38:13,006
low value tasks. And redirect efforts to improve service delivery

3836
04:38:13,006 --> 04:38:15,926
to customers who have paid for development applications and reduce

3837
04:38:15,926 --> 04:38:19,267
interruptions for staff. We've done a couple of council workshops.

3838
04:38:20,867 --> 04:38:24,797
That were high profile over the year. So one, parking

3839
04:38:24,797 --> 04:38:26,837
strategies. So we did two workshops on that with a

3840
04:38:26,837 --> 04:38:29,677
consultant and a third coming. For council Monday morning of

3841
04:38:29,677 --> 04:38:34,271
next week. And as well, we did a number of

3842
04:38:34,271 --> 04:38:39,612
infill related workshops for council over the year. In terms

3843
04:38:39,612 --> 04:38:43,292
of continuous improvements. The planning team development planning team is

3844
04:38:43,292 --> 04:38:47,492
working on review of their short term rental program because

3845
04:38:47,492 --> 04:38:52,065
our vacancy rate. Is over 3% now for their second

3846
04:38:52,065 --> 04:38:56,305
year, and council has provided direction to move forward with

3847
04:38:56,305 --> 04:39:00,431
a bit of a hybrid mating Kelowna approach. To seeing

3848
04:39:00,431 --> 04:39:03,031
a little bit more short term rental housing or short

3849
04:39:03,031 --> 04:39:05,391
term rental accommodation on the market. So we continue to

3850
04:39:05,391 --> 04:39:10,461
work through that in the first quarter of 2026. We've

3851
04:39:10,461 --> 04:39:15,726
did a little internal process review. And so, like. The

3852
04:39:15,726 --> 04:39:19,126
development services division in their accreditation. There isn't the same

3853
04:39:19,126 --> 04:39:21,646
type of accreditation for planning that we did have a

3854
04:39:21,646 --> 04:39:24,526
consultant do sort of an initial review with the development

3855
04:39:24,526 --> 04:39:26,966
community and suggest some improvements internally, so we're going to

3856
04:39:26,966 --> 04:39:31,636
be working on some of those. In 2026 with a

3857
04:39:31,636 --> 04:39:33,876
staff member who has some time devoted in their work.

3858
04:39:33,876 --> 04:39:37,439
Plan for that. We'll continue to work on the refinement

3859
04:39:37,439 --> 04:39:41,942
of the Density bonus program with council. And we've got

3860
04:39:41,942 --> 04:39:44,702
a number of zoning bylaw updates that are more maintenance

3861
04:39:44,702 --> 04:39:49,062
related coming for council related to concerns we've heard with

3862
04:39:49,062 --> 04:39:52,862
the rollout of Bill 44. So tweaking some of the

3863
04:39:52,862 --> 04:39:55,942
zoning related to that and parts of buildings that are

3864
04:39:55,942 --> 04:39:59,822
impacts of buildings that are not very desirable in neighborhoods.

3865
04:40:01,492 --> 04:40:04,372
From a performance measure standpoint. I'll highlight a couple here

3866
04:40:04,372 --> 04:40:10,892
from council. PM number 2% development application streamlined approvals. What

3867
04:40:10,892 --> 04:40:13,412
this means is the component of our components. Of our

3868
04:40:13,412 --> 04:40:16,372
development application process that staff can approve at a staff

3869
04:40:16,372 --> 04:40:18,372
level and don't need. To come to council for an

3870
04:40:18,372 --> 04:40:22,612
approval, and so we've made a number of process changes.

3871
04:40:22,612 --> 04:40:24,812
And the provincial government has made process changes over the.

3872
04:40:26,670 --> 04:40:30,760
Last few years, and so right now, 70% of our

3873
04:40:30,760 --> 04:40:33,280
approvals can be done in a streamlined manner, and that

3874
04:40:33,280 --> 04:40:37,931
could be development. Variance permits. Are provable at a staff

3875
04:40:37,931 --> 04:40:43,962
level. Lower scale form and character development permits. For three

3876
04:40:43,962 --> 04:40:47,362
to six unit buildings or approved at a staff level

3877
04:40:47,362 --> 04:40:52,854
environmental and hazardous condition development permits. And delegated agricultural area

3878
04:40:52,854 --> 04:40:57,427
development permits as well. We don't expect any more requests

3879
04:40:57,427 --> 04:41:00,467
in the year ahead for delegations, and so we expect

3880
04:41:00,467 --> 04:41:04,589
that to remain relatively constant. And there may be areas

3881
04:41:04,589 --> 04:41:07,869
where we want to discuss with council refining that balance

3882
04:41:07,869 --> 04:41:09,669
further in the future if there's areas that aren't working

3883
04:41:09,669 --> 04:41:16,322
for council. The other one was percent. Residential building permits

3884
04:41:16,322 --> 04:41:22,194
in growth districts and another OCP alignment. Indicator. And what

3885
04:41:22,194 --> 04:41:24,274
we try and make sure of is that our policy

3886
04:41:24,274 --> 04:41:28,460
and planning team, that. Are in the community development service

3887
04:41:28,460 --> 04:41:31,500
area, set the high level policy and development planning implements

3888
04:41:31,500 --> 04:41:34,220
that policy and so in the areas where we expect

3889
04:41:34,220 --> 04:41:38,603
growth, are they directing growth to the right areas? The

3890
04:41:38,603 --> 04:41:44,785
development planning service area. Has an expenditure budget of $2.9

3891
04:41:44,785 --> 04:41:49,305
million in 2026 and is operated under four cost centers.

3892
04:41:50,637 --> 04:41:54,797
Funding for this service area is predominantly property taxes, with

3893
04:41:54,797 --> 04:42:01,481
$900,000 coming from fees and charges. The 2025 revised budget

3894
04:42:01,481 --> 04:42:08,521
was 2,841,000 after annualization of previously approved budget request. The

3895
04:42:08,521 --> 04:42:16,274
2026 year will start at 2,711,000. To maintain current service

3896
04:42:16,274 --> 04:42:21,874
levels, an additional $187,000 is being requested. And to enhance

3897
04:42:21,874 --> 04:42:27,200
service levels, an additional $3 million. This service area has

3898
04:42:27,200 --> 04:42:33,524
no priority. One operating or capital request. Is there any

3899
04:42:33,524 --> 04:42:36,404
questions from Mr. Smith that council would like to bring

3900
04:42:36,404 --> 04:42:42,103
up now? Councilor saying comment. Councilor comments? Councilor can in

3901
04:42:42,103 --> 04:42:44,223
question. Yeah, thanks, Mr. Smith. I just wanting in your

3902
04:42:44,223 --> 04:42:50,413
work plans for 2026. Working on the area structure plan

3903
04:42:50,413 --> 04:42:55,006
for McKinley and North UBCo. Without becoming council as well.

3904
04:42:56,404 --> 04:43:01,517
And also possible area structure plan. For the area. Around

3905
04:43:01,517 --> 04:43:05,627
Kasor. So inland Franco area. Your worship staff continued to

3906
04:43:05,627 --> 04:43:10,680
work. With the applicant team on the North Glenmore sector

3907
04:43:10,680 --> 04:43:14,200
study, and there'll be a reporting. Touchpoint with council on

3908
04:43:14,200 --> 04:43:19,080
that in January of 2026 that staff introduced, but it

3909
04:43:19,080 --> 04:43:21,600
will be applicant led, so you'll see that right away

3910
04:43:21,600 --> 04:43:25,654
in the new year. In terms of. Other study planning

3911
04:43:25,654 --> 04:43:29,498
study areas in 2026. There's nothing on our radar at

3912
04:43:29,498 --> 04:43:32,258
this point, and I would say we don't. Actually have

3913
04:43:32,258 --> 04:43:34,338
the capacity to do more. At this point, we'll probably

3914
04:43:34,338 --> 04:43:37,338
need to finish up. The North Glenmore before we dive

3915
04:43:37,338 --> 04:43:41,252
into another one. Toll call as well. Right. Good. Thank

3916
04:43:41,252 --> 04:43:47,160
you. Seeing no further questions. Comments Councilor Singh. Yosh, but

3917
04:43:47,160 --> 04:43:49,240
I just want to commend Mr. Smith and his team

3918
04:43:49,240 --> 04:43:54,334
for the work. They do. We're just heads down as

3919
04:43:54,334 --> 04:43:58,205
his team is. Hard at work. It wasn't until I

3920
04:43:58,205 --> 04:44:01,771
went to UBCM and I heard. From counselors and other

3921
04:44:01,771 --> 04:44:07,591
municipalities. Commending us for the speed with which we move

3922
04:44:07,591 --> 04:44:12,232
applications, how professionally and how advanced. Our staff as and

3923
04:44:12,232 --> 04:44:15,832
our processes, so I just wanted to throw it out

3924
04:44:15,832 --> 04:44:21,028
there. And thank staff for. Their work and their diligent

3925
04:44:21,028 --> 04:44:27,158
efforts in making things happen. Councilor Lovegrove. Well, you beat

3926
04:44:27,158 --> 04:44:28,878
me to it, but I'm going to say the fact

3927
04:44:28,878 --> 04:44:33,845
that. We're expediting approvals, permits, inspections. Is not to say

3928
04:44:33,845 --> 04:44:37,125
we're skimming over. We're actually doing a quality job at

3929
04:44:37,125 --> 04:44:39,622
the same time. And so let me add my kudos

3930
04:44:39,622 --> 04:44:43,182
in that regard. I just appreciate how much smarter you're

3931
04:44:43,182 --> 04:44:47,902
working through reorganizing your processes, your organization, and updating your

3932
04:44:47,902 --> 04:44:50,902
technology. So you can do all of that. My one

3933
04:44:50,902 --> 04:44:54,702
ask is that the urban tree canopy data be a

3934
04:44:54,702 --> 04:44:57,382
budget item for next year, not wait three to five

3935
04:44:57,382 --> 04:45:00,822
years because that's two departments that nothing's come forward, so.

3936
04:45:00,822 --> 04:45:04,770
Thank you. Thank you, thank you. Mr. Smith. Thank you.

3937
04:45:04,770 --> 04:45:07,010
Just echoing the comments that were made by the rest

3938
04:45:07,010 --> 04:45:12,154
of council. Appreciate, definitely, truly appreciate the work that you

3939
04:45:12,154 --> 04:45:14,634
and your department does. Thank you very much. Thank you.

3940
04:45:16,169 --> 04:45:20,040
Melanie, please. Thank you, your worship. Next, we're going to

3941
04:45:20,040 --> 04:45:22,840
move into the parking service area, and we are going

3942
04:45:22,840 --> 04:45:26,680
to welcome the divisional Director of partnerships at Investments, Mr.

3943
04:45:26,680 --> 04:45:35,085
Derek Edstrom. Thank you. Thank you, Melanie. It's a pleasure

3944
04:45:35,085 --> 04:45:39,112
to be here today to talk about parking. Services parking

3945
04:45:39,112 --> 04:45:43,592
services operates under five parking management principles endorsed by council

3946
04:45:43,592 --> 04:45:47,792
in 2014 following a thorough public engagement process. As in

3947
04:45:47,792 --> 04:45:51,992
years past, our efforts as a year focused on excellent

3948
04:45:51,992 --> 04:45:56,752
in short term parking management financial self sufficiency excellence in

3949
04:45:56,752 --> 04:46:01,379
customer service, facilitating. Economic growth and supporting a balanced transportation

3950
04:46:01,379 --> 04:46:07,502
system. Key accomplishments included bringing internal and external staff and

3951
04:46:07,502 --> 04:46:11,782
contractors together underneath one roof at our new St. Paul

3952
04:46:11,782 --> 04:46:17,312
location. It is unique to. Have both our internal staff

3953
04:46:17,312 --> 04:46:21,112
work alongside contractors and just shows the commitment that Mr.

3954
04:46:21,112 --> 04:46:25,885
Duncan has had. Around making sure customer service. Is first

3955
04:46:25,885 --> 04:46:30,211
and foremost. We made significant investments in parcade renewal projects.

3956
04:46:30,211 --> 04:46:34,131
We continue to expand our sustainable offerings by installing ten

3957
04:46:34,131 --> 04:46:37,891
additional level two electric vehicle chargers in Rutland in South

3958
04:46:37,891 --> 04:46:43,232
Pandozi, which complements 20 public chargers already in operation. And.

3959
04:46:45,031 --> 04:46:46,791
The one that we are proud of as we continue

3960
04:46:46,791 --> 04:46:49,831
to look at alternative revenue as a city. And the

3961
04:46:49,831 --> 04:46:53,311
city manager identified our level of alternative revenue as a

3962
04:46:53,311 --> 04:46:57,556
whole. This area continues to operate in a prudent manner

3963
04:46:57,556 --> 04:47:03,356
and contributes $1.65 million. Per year to the general fund

3964
04:47:03,356 --> 04:47:08,905
as we look to continuous improvements. I guess new glasses.

3965
04:47:12,809 --> 04:47:17,258
Don't. Show everything as we look forward to continuous improvements.

3966
04:47:19,033 --> 04:47:25,587
We are focused on customer services. We identified. As well

3967
04:47:25,587 --> 04:47:29,125
as looking to make sure that. We have really good

3968
04:47:29,125 --> 04:47:34,112
information to make informed decisions. The parking services team has

3969
04:47:34,112 --> 04:47:37,625
really focused on the quality of data. That they take

3970
04:47:37,625 --> 04:47:40,945
in. And really, for our purposes, it's not just to

3971
04:47:40,945 --> 04:47:44,145
know what we're taking for long term planning. But eventually,

3972
04:47:44,145 --> 04:47:47,385
as we move to more dynamic pricing in the future,

3973
04:47:47,385 --> 04:47:50,265
we will have to make decisions going forward with our

3974
04:47:50,265 --> 04:47:55,608
parking services to either increase supply. Or to manage occupancy

3975
04:47:55,608 --> 04:47:57,808
by undertaking dynamic pricing. So a lot of effort has

3976
04:47:57,808 --> 04:48:00,128
gone into the background systems to make sure that we

3977
04:48:00,128 --> 04:48:03,688
can provide informed, evidence based decisions to counsel as we

3978
04:48:03,688 --> 04:48:06,768
bring those programs forward with respect to excellence in customer

3979
04:48:06,768 --> 04:48:11,688
service, we remain focused on improving the customer facing technology

3980
04:48:11,688 --> 04:48:14,503
this past year. The pay by phone app. That we

3981
04:48:14,503 --> 04:48:17,143
utilize when underneath renewal, there's a lot of work to

3982
04:48:17,143 --> 04:48:20,143
make sure that it was seamless for our customers. And

3983
04:48:20,143 --> 04:48:23,991
as a data point, We were one of the first.

3984
04:48:25,794 --> 04:48:28,794
To really implement and by, say, push forward, pay by

3985
04:48:28,794 --> 04:48:32,474
phone in Clona. So by the time we hit 2022,

3986
04:48:32,474 --> 04:48:35,554
we already got to 59% of all transactions were being

3987
04:48:35,554 --> 04:48:39,114
utilized by payby. Phone. I'm happy to say that now,

3988
04:48:39,114 --> 04:48:43,554
in 2025, we're projected to hit. 71% of all transactions

3989
04:48:43,554 --> 04:48:47,354
will be utilized by payway phone. And obviously. The. Benefit

3990
04:48:47,354 --> 04:48:51,013
is not only a good customer experience. But also reduced

3991
04:48:51,013 --> 04:48:53,653
infrastructure costs going forward by not having as many pay

3992
04:48:53,653 --> 04:49:00,067
stations that need to be maintained. Going forward. To performance

3993
04:49:00,067 --> 04:49:04,107
metrics. We have three performance metrics in parking that we

3994
04:49:04,107 --> 04:49:08,867
monitor closely. The first one follows the canadian municipalities municipal

3995
04:49:08,867 --> 04:49:12,267
median benchmarks. This is one that I think the team

3996
04:49:12,267 --> 04:49:14,867
can be proud of, but just shows our prudence and

3997
04:49:14,867 --> 04:49:18,027
how we operate in an efficient manner, not only parking

3998
04:49:18,027 --> 04:49:21,870
services, but I think. You see this? Similarly, across city

3999
04:49:21,870 --> 04:49:26,348
departments. In this one particularly, it's a revenue to cost

4000
04:49:26,348 --> 04:49:30,611
ratio. So the way to think about it is. The

4001
04:49:30,611 --> 04:49:32,970
amount of revenue. To how much it costs to run.

4002
04:49:34,615 --> 04:49:39,495
We are targeted at two. We have exceeded it this

4003
04:49:39,495 --> 04:49:44,931
year. And if you look at. The yellow dashed line.

4004
04:49:44,931 --> 04:49:47,891
That's the municipal benchmark. And you can see that we're.

4005
04:49:47,891 --> 04:49:52,491
Considerably higher than other municipalities and how efficiently we run

4006
04:49:52,491 --> 04:49:57,065
our operations. Performance metric. Number two is peak capacity of

4007
04:49:57,065 --> 04:50:04,633
parking stalls. Our target is 85%. This. Had been emboldened

4008
04:50:04,633 --> 04:50:08,313
when we brought forward our parking principles. 85% effectively means

4009
04:50:08,313 --> 04:50:11,113
for on street parking that at any given time, if

4010
04:50:11,113 --> 04:50:13,717
you were to drive around a block. There would be

4011
04:50:13,717 --> 04:50:16,237
one space that would be open. So we want to

4012
04:50:16,237 --> 04:50:19,597
make sure that we're balancing supply to make sure that

4013
04:50:19,597 --> 04:50:24,467
there's an availability. For our businesses in the area. We

4014
04:50:24,467 --> 04:50:27,267
are right on the verge of exceeding that. This is

4015
04:50:27,267 --> 04:50:31,937
an overall number now of 82.7% but. If we break

4016
04:50:31,937 --> 04:50:34,781
down to a couple of our areas. We know in

4017
04:50:34,781 --> 04:50:39,669
August. In downtown, we are at 93.5%. In South Pandozi,

4018
04:50:39,669 --> 04:50:42,669
we had 100%. In August, so we're starting to get

4019
04:50:42,669 --> 04:50:49,084
that conversation. About supply. Or changing our practices around demand.

4020
04:50:49,084 --> 04:50:51,924
Our last one, performance metric number three is blocks of

4021
04:50:51,924 --> 04:50:56,444
time limited. Or residential restrictions. As we continue to urbanize,

4022
04:50:56,444 --> 04:50:59,884
we are undertaking more blocks with residential restrictions and this

4023
04:50:59,884 --> 04:51:04,684
is a more pure measure of a service level improvement

4024
04:51:04,684 --> 04:51:09,191
where we're. Increasing the amount of infrastructure and the amount

4025
04:51:09,191 --> 04:51:14,514
of hours our staff. Are monitoring these areas and I'll

4026
04:51:14,514 --> 04:51:19,937
pass it back to Mel. The parking service area. Has

4027
04:51:19,937 --> 04:51:24,697
an expenditure budget of $13.2 million for the year it's

4028
04:51:24,697 --> 04:51:29,587
operated under two cost centers. Funding for this service area.

4029
04:51:30,907 --> 04:51:33,747
Is properties and charges, as well as some transfers from

4030
04:51:33,747 --> 04:51:43,064
reserves. The 2025 revised budget was $10,486,000 after the annualization

4031
04:51:43,064 --> 04:51:46,744
of previously approved budget requests. The service area is starting

4032
04:51:46,744 --> 04:51:54,559
2026 with a budget of 7,898,000. To maintain current service

4033
04:51:54,559 --> 04:51:58,359
levels, the service area is asking for an additional $5,114,000

4034
04:51:58,359 --> 04:52:07,545
and an additional $150,000 to enhance service levels. There are

4035
04:52:07,545 --> 04:52:11,547
no priority one operating request for the service area. And

4036
04:52:11,547 --> 04:52:17,153
their 2026 capital program is in alignment. With the council

4037
04:52:17,153 --> 04:52:20,633
approved ten year capital plan that is funded. Is there

4038
04:52:20,633 --> 04:52:26,125
any questions? For Mr. Edstrom? Yes, there are. Councilor Weber.

4039
04:52:26,125 --> 04:52:32,015
Questions. Yeah, it's about the South Pandozi parcade. Apparently it's

4040
04:52:32,015 --> 04:52:34,455
part of the ten year capital plan. By the way,

4041
04:52:34,455 --> 04:52:37,255
I was taken aback. By who? With the glasses. Who's?

4042
04:52:37,255 --> 04:52:42,149
That extra intelligent guy standing over there? Anyway, I keep

4043
04:52:42,149 --> 04:52:46,126
wondering about the south Pandozi, parcade. It seems to me

4044
04:52:46,126 --> 04:52:48,566
like a mystery project that keeps coming back every year,

4045
04:52:48,566 --> 04:52:51,446
and yet I feel like maybe I've forgotten, but I

4046
04:52:51,446 --> 04:52:53,846
don't remember council ever having a debate over where in

4047
04:52:53,846 --> 04:52:57,646
town. We've never been given a choice or options or

4048
04:52:57,646 --> 04:53:00,726
any kind of debate. Or a business case about why

4049
04:53:00,726 --> 04:53:02,926
the next parquet needs to be there and may be

4050
04:53:02,926 --> 04:53:06,326
true. But I haven't ever seems to have come. Before

4051
04:53:06,326 --> 04:53:09,246
us and it's being asked for 400,000 this year, and

4052
04:53:09,246 --> 04:53:12,406
then we're launching into almost like $18 million over the

4053
04:53:12,406 --> 04:53:14,966
next five years. So it seems to be it seems

4054
04:53:14,966 --> 04:53:17,006
to me it's going to become a fact pretty quickly

4055
04:53:17,006 --> 04:53:20,583
here. And yet. Maybe it's because it all started before

4056
04:53:20,583 --> 04:53:22,943
I was on council or something, but. It just seems

4057
04:53:22,943 --> 04:53:25,503
like something. There's an assumption we're going to do, but

4058
04:53:25,503 --> 04:53:28,143
we never said it. And councilor just says a point

4059
04:53:28,143 --> 04:53:29,583
there. I know Mr. Edson is going. To answer it,

4060
04:53:29,583 --> 04:53:31,543
but it did all start before you were on account.

4061
04:53:31,543 --> 04:53:35,303
So it did, Mr. Edstrom. Please. Yes, you, worship. It

4062
04:53:35,303 --> 04:53:37,303
did start before you're on council, and as part of

4063
04:53:37,303 --> 04:53:41,211
our area specific. Plans. We identified parking need based off

4064
04:53:41,211 --> 04:53:43,051
what we see, the current or the supply to be

4065
04:53:43,051 --> 04:53:46,060
in. Projected supply. So this came for the first time

4066
04:53:46,060 --> 04:53:49,420
before council last year. We heard loud and clear from

4067
04:53:49,420 --> 04:53:51,780
council. That they wanted this to come back to them.

4068
04:53:53,456 --> 04:53:57,056
Before any decisions were made. Up to now, staff have

4069
04:53:57,056 --> 04:54:01,376
undertaken preliminary design and are currently looking at an option

4070
04:54:01,376 --> 04:54:06,216
for it within the Osprey parking lot in south Pandozi.

4071
04:54:06,216 --> 04:54:10,765
That said. There is a conversation we're going to come

4072
04:54:10,765 --> 04:54:14,685
back to council on specifically with the data. Of what

4073
04:54:14,685 --> 04:54:17,045
will be the highest priority, because some of the numbers

4074
04:54:17,045 --> 04:54:21,846
we're starting to see in the downtown. Are increasing. And

4075
04:54:21,846 --> 04:54:24,526
so there will be a prioritization conversation that will happen

4076
04:54:24,526 --> 04:54:27,886
about where the next parcade should go, but we will

4077
04:54:27,886 --> 04:54:31,566
not move forward with spending anything more than design money

4078
04:54:31,566 --> 04:54:34,166
before we come back to council for approval. I want

4079
04:54:34,166 --> 04:54:36,606
to make sure that's very clear that there's a condition

4080
04:54:36,606 --> 04:54:41,582
associated with that. I appreciate the response. Councilor 1 second

4081
04:54:41,582 --> 04:54:44,702
city manager, please. Yeah. Thank you, worship. And maybe in

4082
04:54:44,702 --> 04:54:48,022
addition, Mr. Edson, speak to the property that we acquired

4083
04:54:48,022 --> 04:54:50,902
for this purpose. And when we acquired that for the

4084
04:54:50,902 --> 04:54:55,555
Pandozi perky. The property that is there is the osprey

4085
04:54:55,555 --> 04:54:59,875
parking lot. Osprey parking lot is. Right beside the park

4086
04:54:59,875 --> 04:55:02,715
in South Pandozi, and it has been identified for a

4087
04:55:02,715 --> 04:55:07,274
long period. Of time as being the potential for. A

4088
04:55:07,274 --> 04:55:11,589
future parcade. If council approved the project. So I'm not

4089
04:55:11,589 --> 04:55:13,509
quite sure how to approach this, but your report did

4090
04:55:13,509 --> 04:55:16,535
say that we're reaching. Parking. Your report just a few

4091
04:55:16,535 --> 04:55:20,295
minutes ago, you said we're reaching parking limits, both downtown.

4092
04:55:20,295 --> 04:55:24,950
And Pandosi, so certainly we need to move ahead. So

4093
04:55:24,950 --> 04:55:27,710
the question is, if we approve this $400,000 now, and

4094
04:55:27,710 --> 04:55:31,550
that's for. Planning purposes, that usually implies that the project

4095
04:55:31,550 --> 04:55:34,350
is going to go ahead, because otherwise you're wasting $400,000.

4096
04:55:35,831 --> 04:55:37,151
Would that be a way of looking at it? I

4097
04:55:37,151 --> 04:55:39,756
wouldn't look at it that way. Your worship from our

4098
04:55:39,756 --> 04:55:44,579
perspective. There's the feasibility to undertake long term planning. Regardless,

4099
04:55:44,579 --> 04:55:47,059
we want to make sure that whatever sites that we

4100
04:55:47,059 --> 04:55:50,619
are holding for parking purposes can actually work from a

4101
04:55:50,619 --> 04:55:54,939
feasibility perspective. So that includes just based geotechnical and then

4102
04:55:54,939 --> 04:55:59,814
having some massing, as you can imagine. Parcades.

4103
04:56:05,418 --> 04:56:06,538
Put in, say Lego is the wrong way to say

4104
04:56:06,538 --> 04:56:10,685
it, but effectively. They need to fit within a certain

4105
04:56:10,685 --> 04:56:13,165
box or rectangular, and we want to make sure that

4106
04:56:13,165 --> 04:56:16,125
it can actually be constructed and built within that space.

4107
04:56:16,125 --> 04:56:18,445
Before we come back to council, we know that. Is

4108
04:56:18,445 --> 04:56:20,805
a tighter space. That's one of the reasons for it.

4109
04:56:20,805 --> 04:56:23,205
Also, anything in the downtown as well. If it was

4110
04:56:23,205 --> 04:56:25,605
to come forward, we'd want to make sure that before

4111
04:56:25,605 --> 04:56:27,685
we make the recommendation to move to the next level

4112
04:56:27,685 --> 04:56:31,899
that has gone underneath. Gone. Underneath. Gone underneath the initial

4113
04:56:31,899 --> 04:56:35,485
feasibility analysis. What would that 400,000 be used to? Look

4114
04:56:35,485 --> 04:56:37,485
at more than just one location in the city for

4115
04:56:37,485 --> 04:56:39,365
a yes, it would have the ability to do that,

4116
04:56:39,365 --> 04:56:41,325
you, worship, but we're going to undertake the pandozi one

4117
04:56:41,325 --> 04:56:44,452
first. Yeah. And yet we're going to be at some

4118
04:56:44,452 --> 04:56:47,172
point debating at some point. You're? Coming back to us

4119
04:56:47,172 --> 04:56:51,212
with where options for where parcade is most needed. We

4120
04:56:51,212 --> 04:56:54,372
will have evidence backed information to make sure you can

4121
04:56:54,372 --> 04:56:57,172
make an informed decision. And as our commitment was before,

4122
04:56:57,172 --> 04:57:04,602
that we would not move forward. Beyond the feasibility stage.

4123
04:57:06,359 --> 04:57:11,292
Until we had council's blessing to move forward. Thank you.

4124
04:57:11,292 --> 04:57:18,009
Councilor stock, please. Comment on councilor Weber's question and then

4125
04:57:18,009 --> 04:57:23,058
a question. But. Council. There used to be a parking

4126
04:57:23,058 --> 04:57:27,658
lot in the middle of Pandozi, which included the site

4127
04:57:27,658 --> 04:57:31,218
of where now Canada is, and we took that parking

4128
04:57:31,218 --> 04:57:34,898
out in favor of providing supportive housing. To that community.

4129
04:57:34,898 --> 04:57:37,584
And at that time, I recalled her being a commitment

4130
04:57:37,584 --> 04:57:39,704
to the business community out there that we would replace

4131
04:57:39,704 --> 04:57:43,125
that space. Which is why we bought Osprey and then

4132
04:57:43,125 --> 04:57:46,365
used that as future enhancement. So it does. Go back

4133
04:57:46,365 --> 04:57:50,445
about 18 years ago, the root of this. But the

4134
04:57:50,445 --> 04:57:52,685
objective was to make sure that there was adequate parking.

4135
04:57:52,685 --> 04:57:56,045
Depends the area through parking management. I think there's been

4136
04:57:56,045 --> 04:57:59,189
huge improvements. In that area. But that is part of

4137
04:57:59,189 --> 04:58:01,029
the history of it, so I'm not surprised to see

4138
04:58:01,029 --> 04:58:03,429
this. Come in. But it has had such a long

4139
04:58:03,429 --> 04:58:08,178
history. Sometimes it's easy to forget how we got here.

4140
04:58:08,178 --> 04:58:13,885
Anyway, my question. Is on the budget. I noticed on

4141
04:58:13,885 --> 04:58:18,885
page 299, Melanie, we have a transfer from reserves of

4142
04:58:18,885 --> 04:58:24,295
3,000,818. As a revenue. But then when I went further

4143
04:58:24,295 --> 04:58:27,855
down the page, we have transferred to reserves of 3,000,655.

4144
04:58:27,855 --> 04:58:31,535
And it just seemed like an interesting accounting thing, and

4145
04:58:31,535 --> 04:58:35,211
I'm just curious. To the story behind that. Thank you,

4146
04:58:35,211 --> 04:58:41,297
worship. When we put money into reserve, it is typically

4147
04:58:41,297 --> 04:58:44,657
for future capital. So most of the time when you

4148
04:58:44,657 --> 04:58:47,817
see money coming in that line of transfer from reserve,

4149
04:58:47,817 --> 04:58:51,177
it is coming in to fund that. Capital work with.

4150
04:58:54,212 --> 04:58:58,132
The parking operation. Money that is received that is not

4151
04:58:58,132 --> 04:59:00,932
used within the year in the operations of that year

4152
04:59:00,932 --> 04:59:03,612
get contributed to that reserve and then are used for

4153
04:59:03,612 --> 04:59:08,467
future capital. So. It's just like old money. Old revenues

4154
04:59:08,467 --> 04:59:11,507
coming in to pay for today's capital. And today's money

4155
04:59:11,507 --> 04:59:14,747
going into reserve to pay for tomorrow's capital. I knew

4156
04:59:14,747 --> 04:59:19,961
you'd. Have a good answer. Thank you. Thank you. Councilor

4157
04:59:19,961 --> 04:59:23,598
Dehart, please. I have a comment. If everybody else was

4158
04:59:23,598 --> 04:59:28,377
finished. Hold. Questions? Councilor Singh. Questions? Yes. Thank you, worship.

4159
04:59:30,442 --> 04:59:34,002
I just wondered. I may be drawing a blank here.

4160
04:59:36,123 --> 04:59:39,563
Did we not talk about a parcade in Rutland? Or

4161
04:59:39,563 --> 04:59:42,163
was it last term or this term? It's sort of

4162
04:59:42,163 --> 04:59:45,523
all rolling into one. Wasn't that an issue at one

4163
04:59:45,523 --> 04:59:55,459
point? Councilor. No. All right. I'm drawing a blank. Or

4164
04:59:55,459 --> 05:00:00,416
I dreamt of it. Thank you. Dreaming again? Any questions,

4165
05:00:00,416 --> 05:00:07,129
councilor? Lovegrove. Questions? Yes. Two questions, your worship. Thanks. So

4166
05:00:07,129 --> 05:00:10,449
just to go back to the south Pandozi. Park aid

4167
05:00:10,449 --> 05:00:14,129
and finish up. Part of that will be whatever location,

4168
05:00:14,129 --> 05:00:17,649
whatever they're looking at a business case to confirm feasibility,

4169
05:00:17,649 --> 05:00:21,209
and then it would help you establish priorities, so I.

4170
05:00:21,209 --> 05:00:26,087
Get that 400,000. Okay, fair. Enough. Then the real question

4171
05:00:26,087 --> 05:00:29,287
was, you talk about expenses when you have your goal

4172
05:00:29,287 --> 05:00:32,927
of 2.0. That's operating, right. That doesn't include land and

4173
05:00:32,927 --> 05:00:38,343
construction. The two to one ratio. That's just revenue versus

4174
05:00:38,343 --> 05:00:44,877
operating. That's correct, Georgia. Okay. Thank you. Councilor Wolverich, please.

4175
05:00:44,877 --> 05:00:47,117
Thanks for worship. Just to carry on with the south,

4176
05:00:47,117 --> 05:00:53,624
Pandozi. Parcade questioning. I understand the methodology behind it, Mr.

4177
05:00:53,624 --> 05:00:58,127
Edstrom, around the planning. But where I get confused is

4178
05:00:58,127 --> 05:01:01,860
we're going to come back to council, but. We're already

4179
05:01:01,860 --> 05:01:06,460
subsequently approving the 27, 28 and 29 projections of the

4180
05:01:06,460 --> 05:01:09,420
construction. Those wouldn't come back to us, would they? So,

4181
05:01:09,420 --> 05:01:12,620
basically, by approving this, we're locking in those capital commitments

4182
05:01:12,620 --> 05:01:17,376
into the subsequent years. Is that not true, Mr. Sass?

4183
05:01:17,376 --> 05:01:19,816
Please thank your worship. No, you're not locking in. Those.

4184
05:01:21,826 --> 05:01:24,586
Costs, but it does help the finance team in our

4185
05:01:24,586 --> 05:01:27,706
long term financial strategy to be able to anticipate that

4186
05:01:27,706 --> 05:01:30,386
the parking team will be coming back with a plan.

4187
05:01:31,991 --> 05:01:35,431
For a parcade. And then once that's authorized that the

4188
05:01:35,431 --> 05:01:39,071
funding will be allowed to be expended. But what this

4189
05:01:39,071 --> 05:01:42,736
is. Allowing the finance team to have a fighting chance

4190
05:01:42,736 --> 05:01:45,816
at that long term financing strategy. But the funds would

4191
05:01:45,816 --> 05:01:50,917
not be authorized to be expended until council endorsed. The

4192
05:01:50,917 --> 05:01:56,625
construction of the parcade. Okay. I guess there's just a

4193
05:01:56,625 --> 05:01:59,745
lot of things at play that I'm pondering. About this?

4194
05:01:59,745 --> 05:02:02,625
Because we're talking about a citywide parking strategy that we've

4195
05:02:02,625 --> 05:02:06,917
had. Workshops on. We're talking about. A dynamic pricing strategy.

4196
05:02:08,191 --> 05:02:12,307
And so then I guess I'm just uncomfortable seeing. Those

4197
05:02:12,307 --> 05:02:15,587
numbers committed to in Fels Pandozi before we know that

4198
05:02:15,587 --> 05:02:19,225
it's going to be in that location. Councilor. Just a

4199
05:02:19,225 --> 05:02:22,958
point of clarification from the city manager, because. The capital

4200
05:02:22,958 --> 05:02:24,638
always sits within a ten year capital plan already. But.

4201
05:02:24,638 --> 05:02:26,998
City manager, please. Thank you, worship. Maybe just to give

4202
05:02:26,998 --> 05:02:31,589
council. Of additional comfort. Having this in tenure in the

4203
05:02:31,589 --> 05:02:35,109
approved tenure capital plan. Puts it to a place where

4204
05:02:35,109 --> 05:02:38,229
you're going to be reviewing on an annual basis, regardless.

4205
05:02:38,229 --> 05:02:40,909
So on. The ten year capital plan comes back for

4206
05:02:40,909 --> 05:02:44,349
review again next year. You'll have another opportunity to take

4207
05:02:44,349 --> 05:02:47,029
a look at that with the progressive information that Mr.

4208
05:02:47,029 --> 05:02:49,709
Edstrom team has come up with in terms of design.

4209
05:02:49,709 --> 05:02:52,389
So before you endorse next year's tenure, cop or re

4210
05:02:52,389 --> 05:02:55,908
endorse next year's tenure capital plan. You'll have that opportunity

4211
05:02:55,908 --> 05:02:59,432
again. But you'll have more information at that time. Boat

4212
05:02:59,432 --> 05:03:06,373
location, design, fit and those types of things. Okay. Thank

4213
05:03:06,373 --> 05:03:12,106
you. Comments councilor Dehurt, just before we move on. Thank

4214
05:03:12,106 --> 05:03:15,746
you. Yeah, I know that this isn't. What I'm going

4215
05:03:15,746 --> 05:03:17,306
to say is not in one of the items of

4216
05:03:17,306 --> 05:03:20,066
b one or b two? But I really again wanted.

4217
05:03:23,118 --> 05:03:27,398
To just thank staff and council and the city manager

4218
05:03:27,398 --> 05:03:30,438
for the free parking for the veterans, the reason I'm

4219
05:03:30,438 --> 05:03:33,478
bringing it up today is I have had many veterans

4220
05:03:33,478 --> 05:03:36,798
in the last couple. Of weeks, actually, since November 11.

4221
05:03:36,798 --> 05:03:39,872
Come to me. The first thing they said. It's really,

4222
05:03:39,872 --> 05:03:42,512
really easy to register here at the city because I

4223
05:03:42,512 --> 05:03:47,512
wasn't sure. And sometimes things happen. And secondly, they said

4224
05:03:47,512 --> 05:03:50,632
that how pleasant it was that everyone they've gone to

4225
05:03:50,632 --> 05:03:52,992
and that it was a quick form and how pleasant

4226
05:03:52,992 --> 05:03:55,712
everyone was at the city and I've had many of

4227
05:03:55,712 --> 05:03:57,632
those, so I just wanted to bring it up in

4228
05:03:57,632 --> 05:04:00,773
the public. Realm, because I think. It's really important that

4229
05:04:00,773 --> 05:04:03,093
we did it. We followed through, and now they're all

4230
05:04:03,093 --> 05:04:06,013
really happy on the system, so thank you. Thank you.

4231
05:04:07,508 --> 05:04:09,508
No further comment. Just before we move on, just a

4232
05:04:09,508 --> 05:04:12,788
point of clarification for council with regards to the concern

4233
05:04:12,788 --> 05:04:15,548
around the parking elements on it, there is a substantial

4234
05:04:15,548 --> 05:04:17,668
need within this community. That it ends up being we

4235
05:04:17,668 --> 05:04:20,748
deliver this, and this has come about as part of

4236
05:04:20,748 --> 05:04:23,314
this report. And part of this moving forward. What Mr.

4237
05:04:23,314 --> 05:04:25,234
Edstrom is saying, and what he's saying is that they're

4238
05:04:25,234 --> 05:04:29,145
looking at that. Now, we don't know exactly where. It'll

4239
05:04:29,145 --> 05:04:32,025
land where it will land in the future, but it's

4240
05:04:32,025 --> 05:04:34,265
going to come. Back before council, before it lands anywhere.

4241
05:04:35,793 --> 05:04:38,313
So we're advancing the idea that we recognize that this

4242
05:04:38,313 --> 05:04:40,633
has to be done within the community, and it all

4243
05:04:40,633 --> 05:04:44,206
started out as councilor stocks said 18 years ago. In

4244
05:04:44,206 --> 05:04:47,296
the south, Pandozi. Or whatever the number of years you

4245
05:04:47,296 --> 05:04:49,736
use in the south Pandozi. But it may be somewhere

4246
05:04:49,736 --> 05:04:51,496
else within the community, but it will come back to

4247
05:04:51,496 --> 05:04:53,776
this council before we advance it, so. It's just so

4248
05:04:53,776 --> 05:04:57,791
that it ends up being everyone is aware. Saying anything

4249
05:04:57,791 --> 05:05:02,272
specific. Where I'm uncomfortable. I'm totally comfortable with the 400,000

4250
05:05:02,272 --> 05:05:06,323
in planning to understand where it's going to be. In

4251
05:05:06,323 --> 05:05:09,522
the community, but where I continually have challenges. Is the

4252
05:05:09,522 --> 05:05:12,642
forecasting of the capital build in the subsequent years, and

4253
05:05:12,642 --> 05:05:14,642
I know the city manager. Says it'll come back at

4254
05:05:14,642 --> 05:05:16,962
a capital plan, but we never remove anything from the

4255
05:05:16,962 --> 05:05:20,082
capital. Plan. It just gets endorsed as a whole document.

4256
05:05:20,082 --> 05:05:23,122
But the forecasting of the build may happen. On this

4257
05:05:23,122 --> 05:05:26,242
site or it may happen on some other site that

4258
05:05:26,242 --> 05:05:28,882
is part of the process of them going back through.

4259
05:05:29,541 --> 05:05:33,261
So it allows finance to recognize that it will be

4260
05:05:33,261 --> 05:05:35,781
something that. And Mr. Sass jump in. Here at any

4261
05:05:35,781 --> 05:05:38,501
particular point in time, but it allows finance to recognize

4262
05:05:38,501 --> 05:05:41,141
that it will be something that happens within our community.

4263
05:05:41,141 --> 05:05:45,156
For them to kind of. Structure, budget forwards moving forward.

4264
05:05:45,156 --> 05:05:48,036
It's a study and it's a capital allocation for something

4265
05:05:48,036 --> 05:05:50,396
to happen, and that will be a process that comes

4266
05:05:50,396 --> 05:05:52,956
back before council. Mr. Sass, am I off mark on

4267
05:05:52,956 --> 05:05:56,996
that? Sorry. My buttons are having some delays. Thank you,

4268
05:05:56,996 --> 05:06:03,690
your worship. I think. The hardest thing for us to

4269
05:06:03,690 --> 05:06:08,643
handle in finance. In how we're funding capital is to

4270
05:06:08,643 --> 05:06:12,883
have substantive capital projects land in the near term. In

4271
05:06:12,883 --> 05:06:17,580
the plan that were unanticipated a few years out. And

4272
05:06:17,580 --> 05:06:23,018
so. Not opining or presenting any comment on where the

4273
05:06:23,018 --> 05:06:26,098
parquet may go or how that works. But it is

4274
05:06:26,098 --> 05:06:29,588
very difficult. In our financial plan to have, say, a

4275
05:06:29,588 --> 05:06:32,868
large parcade dropped in next year that was not contemplated

4276
05:06:32,868 --> 05:06:38,154
a few years out. Thank you, Melanie, please. I'd move

4277
05:06:38,154 --> 05:06:42,968
ahead. Yes. Okay. Thank you. The next service area that

4278
05:06:42,968 --> 05:06:46,488
we will visit is the partnerships office. This starts on

4279
05:06:46,488 --> 05:06:52,411
page 303. Of your budget volume. It's a pleasure to

4280
05:06:52,411 --> 05:06:59,306
present. The partnerships office. The team that. Is here with

4281
05:06:59,306 --> 05:07:04,845
me today. Really? Bodies. The vision that we challenged, the

4282
05:07:04,845 --> 05:07:08,845
way the organization thinks about designs, pays for and delivers

4283
05:07:08,845 --> 05:07:14,206
infrastructure. To make Kelowna a city of the future. It

4284
05:07:14,206 --> 05:07:19,046
is a multidisciplinary team that really advances that notion of

4285
05:07:19,046 --> 05:07:26,534
challenge. Our key accomplishments in 2025. One of the key

4286
05:07:26,534 --> 05:07:29,934
areas was to establish foundational policies, program systems to support

4287
05:07:29,934 --> 05:07:34,254
the evolution and immaturity of the partnership's office. These policies

4288
05:07:34,254 --> 05:07:37,665
and programs have helped to guide. And optimize the work

4289
05:07:37,665 --> 05:07:40,825
we are doing, as well as enhance the city's reputation.

4290
05:07:40,825 --> 05:07:45,611
Through recognition. With our partners. It's included a strategic plan.

4291
05:07:47,169 --> 05:07:51,962
Our major partnership development policy, and we've activated. Our alternative

4292
05:07:51,962 --> 05:07:57,648
revenue program. That council has saw previously. We've also created

4293
05:07:57,648 --> 05:08:00,848
two major partnerships. As we continue to focus on the

4294
05:08:00,848 --> 05:08:05,539
more significant. Partnerships for our community. We've partnered with tennis

4295
05:08:05,539 --> 05:08:09,379
clubs in Canada to provide year round play. With five

4296
05:08:09,379 --> 05:08:14,099
new courts and a winter tennis facility admission, recreation park

4297
05:08:14,099 --> 05:08:17,299
and we've partnered with Okinawkan College on a new recreation

4298
05:08:17,299 --> 05:08:21,818
and wellness facility at their Klona campus. Providing funding to

4299
05:08:21,818 --> 05:08:25,738
build a larger facility that would not otherwise be constructed

4300
05:08:25,738 --> 05:08:30,778
at OC in the intergovernmental relations portfolio. The team led

4301
05:08:30,778 --> 05:08:35,007
many key opportunities. In high profile meetings, including two meetings

4302
05:08:35,007 --> 05:08:40,856
with Premier deep. To advance council priorities around economic development

4303
05:08:40,856 --> 05:08:46,056
at YLW, addressing repeat property offenders and to see a

4304
05:08:46,056 --> 05:08:51,304
regional mandatory care facility in the Okinawan. The team also

4305
05:08:51,304 --> 05:08:55,144
facilitated advocacy tours to Victoria and Ottawa, and we're starting

4306
05:08:55,144 --> 05:09:00,693
to see. Greater success by going. And working alongside the

4307
05:09:00,693 --> 05:09:05,421
federal government. The team also managed Cola's delegation and participation

4308
05:09:05,421 --> 05:09:10,581
at the UBCM convention and notably we received two awards

4309
05:09:10,581 --> 05:09:15,295
the team was pretty proud of. From climate energy awards

4310
05:09:15,295 --> 05:09:18,735
for the Climate Resilience Colon Strategy and the Dhart park

4311
05:09:18,735 --> 05:09:23,326
carbon neutral design. We also developed and launched a corporate

4312
05:09:23,326 --> 05:09:28,324
awards program. To undertake a systematic approach to how we

4313
05:09:28,324 --> 05:09:32,124
apply for awards and the hoping that we continue to

4314
05:09:32,124 --> 05:09:37,533
have corner recognized as a national leader. On the grants

4315
05:09:37,533 --> 05:09:42,493
portfolio. The team was successful in managing $119,000,000 in grants.

4316
05:09:42,493 --> 05:09:45,333
And part of it, as we hear, is not just

4317
05:09:45,333 --> 05:09:48,613
being awarded the grant, but how you manage. It successfully

4318
05:09:48,613 --> 05:09:51,773
over time to make sure your reputation stays strong. We

4319
05:09:51,773 --> 05:09:54,213
were able to celebrate the success of the grants program

4320
05:09:54,213 --> 05:09:57,725
by the opening of the new waterfront stage. Which was

4321
05:09:57,725 --> 05:10:00,085
attended by the provincial minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and

4322
05:10:00,085 --> 05:10:03,205
Sport. We celebrated the opening of the second phase of

4323
05:10:03,205 --> 05:10:08,125
drath Kona beach with Kiwanis and KGH foundation and we

4324
05:10:08,125 --> 05:10:12,000
celebrated the opening of the Bertram overpass. As we focus

4325
05:10:12,000 --> 05:10:18,383
on improvements for the partnership's office service level. A couple

4326
05:10:18,383 --> 05:10:23,143
areas to note. We continue to work very well alongside.

4327
05:10:24,358 --> 05:10:27,478
UBCo with our city and UBco Research alliance and continue

4328
05:10:27,478 --> 05:10:32,118
to leverage the collaboration. Research, but also, very interestingly, the

4329
05:10:32,118 --> 05:10:35,758
level of grant opportunities when we work together with Ubco.

4330
05:10:35,758 --> 05:10:38,438
The city is committed to continue to partner on this

4331
05:10:38,438 --> 05:10:41,602
research. And that brings together both our municipal staff and

4332
05:10:41,602 --> 05:10:47,520
university researchers to explore local challenges through applied research. We

4333
05:10:47,520 --> 05:10:54,575
continue to refine our evidence based background materials. For council

4334
05:10:54,575 --> 05:10:57,535
as we continue to advocate both the provincial and federal

4335
05:10:57,535 --> 05:11:03,290
government. On council's key advocacy priorities around economic development at

4336
05:11:03,290 --> 05:11:07,370
YLW, increasing local crown prosecutors a regional compassionate mandatory care

4337
05:11:07,370 --> 05:11:12,810
facility, new transit operations center, and the Clement Avenue extension.

4338
05:11:12,810 --> 05:11:15,210
And then what's? Under development currently is the team is

4339
05:11:15,210 --> 05:11:18,850
working on a new major partnership strategy to pursue the.

4340
05:11:19,396 --> 05:11:22,116
Highest impact partnerships. I think you've heard from the team

4341
05:11:22,116 --> 05:11:28,014
before that they're really focused on national level partners. And

4342
05:11:28,014 --> 05:11:30,534
making sure that it aligns well with our ten year

4343
05:11:30,534 --> 05:11:35,413
capital plan. As for performance metrics, we have three performance

4344
05:11:35,413 --> 05:11:39,813
metrics to bring to council. The first is our partnerships

4345
05:11:39,813 --> 05:11:44,618
leverage ratio. I spoke about that earlier. And the importance

4346
05:11:44,618 --> 05:11:47,873
of having. The opportunities fund. Our commitment when we look

4347
05:11:47,873 --> 05:11:50,953
at partnerships is at minimum we have a ratio of

4348
05:11:50,953 --> 05:11:54,833
two to one. In 2025, the full fund was successfully

4349
05:11:54,833 --> 05:12:00,494
allocated. Meaning all funds were spent. And the leverage ratio

4350
05:12:00,494 --> 05:12:03,214
was estimated at four to one, with a significant portion

4351
05:12:03,214 --> 05:12:06,294
directed to the two major projects that identified earlier, which

4352
05:12:06,294 --> 05:12:10,374
was the winter tennis facility and the OC recreation facility.

4353
05:12:12,013 --> 05:12:15,213
Performance metric number two considers the success rate on grant

4354
05:12:15,213 --> 05:12:23,946
applications. Per year, as you can see. We are targeting

4355
05:12:23,946 --> 05:12:27,626
close to 80% in 2025, but historically have always been

4356
05:12:27,626 --> 05:12:32,145
about 70%. This one is interesting because. We have had

4357
05:12:32,145 --> 05:12:34,705
this performance metric for a long time, and we always

4358
05:12:34,705 --> 05:12:38,185
started at a baseline of about 50% and we've exceeded

4359
05:12:38,185 --> 05:12:40,305
it. It's something that we're going to look at going

4360
05:12:40,305 --> 05:12:43,665
forward. But part of our thought process around it was

4361
05:12:43,665 --> 05:12:46,701
not. To put a performance metric so high that you're

4362
05:12:46,701 --> 05:12:52,435
only taking safe applications if that makes sense that. We

4363
05:12:52,435 --> 05:12:55,355
know that we can continue to get better, but also

4364
05:12:55,355 --> 05:12:57,475
making sure that we're going after some of the bigger

4365
05:12:57,475 --> 05:13:00,435
applications or ones that might be more opportunistic. And so

4366
05:13:00,435 --> 05:13:03,555
we're not being driven to just go after the money

4367
05:13:03,555 --> 05:13:05,395
that we know is safe, but. We're going after, we

4368
05:13:05,395 --> 05:13:09,473
believe to be the bigger. Harder grounds to try to

4369
05:13:09,473 --> 05:13:10,873
apply for, but it's one that we're going to continue

4370
05:13:10,873 --> 05:13:15,513
to look at. And then lastly, performance metric number three

4371
05:13:15,513 --> 05:13:20,617
successfully completed efficacy priorities through. Minister meetings. It's a combination

4372
05:13:20,617 --> 05:13:23,137
of the number of meetings that we have with ministers,

4373
05:13:23,137 --> 05:13:26,857
our target is that we complete one advocacy priority per

4374
05:13:26,857 --> 05:13:30,377
year. When we talk about advocacy priorities with council of

4375
05:13:30,377 --> 05:13:35,174
having. Kind of between three to five. Accuracy, priorities. We

4376
05:13:35,174 --> 05:13:36,294
know that some of them are going long term, and

4377
05:13:36,294 --> 05:13:39,302
some of them may. Span over councils to see them

4378
05:13:39,302 --> 05:13:41,542
come to fruition. The one that we're proud to say

4379
05:13:41,542 --> 05:13:44,502
that we completed in 2025 is the completion of the

4380
05:13:44,502 --> 05:13:52,526
180 heart and hearth homes. Milni. The partnership's office has

4381
05:13:52,526 --> 05:13:56,806
an expenditure budget of $1.8 million and is operated under

4382
05:13:56,806 --> 05:14:02,902
two cost centers. Funding for the partnership office is predominantly

4383
05:14:02,902 --> 05:14:06,942
from property taxes, with a small amount coming from reserves

4384
05:14:06,942 --> 05:14:16,165
and fees and charges. The 2025 revised budget was $2,149,000

4385
05:14:16,165 --> 05:14:21,245
after previously approved budget amendments have been added. The 2026

4386
05:14:21,245 --> 05:14:27,920
year is starting at 1,733,000. To maintain current service levels,

4387
05:14:27,920 --> 05:14:32,960
an additional $113,000 is requested. And to enhance service levels

4388
05:14:32,960 --> 05:14:39,712
an additional 2000. There are no operating or capital requests

4389
05:14:39,712 --> 05:14:42,552
for this service area. Does anyone on council have any

4390
05:14:42,552 --> 05:14:50,094
questions? For Mr. Edstrom. Councilor Hodge, questions or comments? Questions

4391
05:14:50,094 --> 05:14:59,180
minor. In your. Boxes. You've got 2025 estimates.

4392
05:15:01,728 --> 05:15:09,628
Like the union numbers. And make. Their. Number four. 2025

4393
05:15:09,628 --> 05:15:13,435
that says estimate. It's the end of the year, so.

4394
05:15:14,737 --> 05:15:18,014
Can you not say it's complete? And that's a gap.

4395
05:15:19,940 --> 05:15:27,187
Right. Do you follow what I'm saying? I do, your

4396
05:15:27,187 --> 05:15:30,347
worship. So the first thing is when this is submitted,

4397
05:15:30,347 --> 05:15:32,387
it's submitted prior. To the end of the year so

4398
05:15:32,387 --> 05:15:36,867
be submitted likely back in September. At that time, we

4399
05:15:36,867 --> 05:15:41,345
knew that. The funds have been fully allocated to those

4400
05:15:41,345 --> 05:15:44,185
two projects, and we were able to have an average

4401
05:15:44,185 --> 05:15:46,385
funding ratio of four to one. So we were able

4402
05:15:46,385 --> 05:15:48,505
to identify it, but it was just identifying. It towards

4403
05:15:48,505 --> 05:15:50,585
the end of the year because at that time it

4404
05:15:50,585 --> 05:15:53,705
was submitted in September approximately with global focus, but it's

4405
05:15:53,705 --> 05:15:56,265
still too early for us. You're quite sure? And if

4406
05:15:56,265 --> 05:16:01,255
you notice all three performance? Metrics say estimate as well.

4407
05:16:01,255 --> 05:16:03,535
Exactly. That's why I was 21. Okay. I just want.

4408
05:16:03,535 --> 05:16:09,786
To make comment, Mr. Merlit. Since council approved this. Coming

4409
05:16:09,786 --> 05:16:14,876
forward, this old projecting group. Tremendous, tremendous success we've had

4410
05:16:14,876 --> 05:16:23,273
from their involvement, and I think that. It's really. Partnership

4411
05:16:23,273 --> 05:16:26,753
office concept has been a huge upswing for us. I

4412
05:16:26,753 --> 05:16:31,907
think it's tremendous value. To the city. And proof is

4413
05:16:31,907 --> 05:16:34,907
in the pudding and what we call over the years.

4414
05:16:34,907 --> 05:16:37,307
So I just want to. Thank. Thank you. I think

4415
05:16:37,307 --> 05:16:42,396
it's great. What you're done. Councilor Wolverich, please. Okay. Comment?

4416
05:16:42,396 --> 05:16:44,156
I think we're on comments. We have no. More questions,

4417
05:16:44,156 --> 05:16:47,236
so please proceed. Thanks for worship, and thanks, Mr. Edstrom,

4418
05:16:47,236 --> 05:16:49,796
for the presentation today. And though there's no budget request,

4419
05:16:49,796 --> 05:16:53,316
I just want to express my gratitude for all the

4420
05:16:53,316 --> 05:16:55,876
support. That the group gives council and the rest of

4421
05:16:55,876 --> 05:16:59,044
the city throughout the year. Definitely couldn't be doing the

4422
05:16:59,044 --> 05:17:02,644
advocacy that we do and garner the level of attention

4423
05:17:02,644 --> 05:17:07,578
both from provincial and federal partners. And our investment pays

4424
05:17:07,578 --> 05:17:09,738
tenfold, so it's a best in class, in my view.

4425
05:17:11,355 --> 05:17:15,834
And our relationship and trust. Driven division that continually works

4426
05:17:15,834 --> 05:17:17,754
to support the community. So thank you for all the

4427
05:17:17,754 --> 05:17:22,477
work you and the team do? Councilor Dehart, please, just

4428
05:17:22,477 --> 05:17:26,517
quickly. I wanted to dittle. What? Councilor Wolverich. Said it

4429
05:17:26,517 --> 05:17:29,557
is just a real pleasure to work with that department.

4430
05:17:29,557 --> 05:17:32,117
And whether it were in counselor or whether we're on

4431
05:17:32,117 --> 05:17:35,437
a field trip or whether we're somewhere else, it is.

4432
05:17:35,437 --> 05:17:43,012
Really nice to know that. Absolutely. Everything is perfect. And

4433
05:17:43,012 --> 05:17:45,372
the governance that you do and actually the leadership with

4434
05:17:45,372 --> 05:17:49,892
the different levels of government is incredible. Really. It's something

4435
05:17:49,892 --> 05:17:51,892
that we can't do alone. I guess that's what. I

4436
05:17:51,892 --> 05:17:54,572
want to say that we need your help to do

4437
05:17:54,572 --> 05:17:58,801
what we do. So thank you all. Very much. Councilor

4438
05:17:58,801 --> 05:18:01,081
Singh, please. Thank you, worship. I want to add to

4439
05:18:01,081 --> 05:18:05,363
what my colleagues just said. We saw them at work,

4440
05:18:05,363 --> 05:18:07,763
at the UBCM. At UBC. And we saw them hit.

4441
05:18:07,763 --> 05:18:11,999
The ground running. And just. They were all over, trying

4442
05:18:11,999 --> 05:18:13,999
to. Trying to make sure they were connecting with the

4443
05:18:13,999 --> 05:18:16,719
right. People to get the best for Kelowna. So thank

4444
05:18:16,719 --> 05:18:18,279
you very much for all the work. You and your

4445
05:18:18,279 --> 05:18:22,159
team do, Councilor Lovegrove. Okay, well, this is a new

4446
05:18:22,159 --> 05:18:26,240
one. I actually. Just want to go like this. Well

4447
05:18:26,240 --> 05:18:28,720
done, because I think you win the applause award. We

4448
05:18:28,720 --> 05:18:31,920
have applauded your team more. Often than any other. Perhaps

4449
05:18:31,920 --> 05:18:35,080
the events are a close second, but just well done,

4450
05:18:35,080 --> 05:18:38,000
especially herding. A cat like me because I know it's

4451
05:18:38,000 --> 05:18:43,790
difficult. Thank you, worship. Thank you. Any other. Comments. Derek,

4452
05:18:43,790 --> 05:18:48,200
if I may, just before you leave. To Michelle, excel,

4453
05:18:48,200 --> 05:18:53,720
Valentina, Christine, and obviously Kirby, too. Everything that was set

4454
05:18:53,720 --> 05:18:57,926
up here is correct. You do assist myself, you do

4455
05:18:57,926 --> 05:19:01,646
assist counsel, and you do assist the city with regards

4456
05:19:01,646 --> 05:19:04,817
to the work that you do. And the ability of

4457
05:19:04,817 --> 05:19:09,720
advancing initiatives for the betterment of the community. So on

4458
05:19:09,720 --> 05:19:11,520
behalf of all of us, I know it's been said,

4459
05:19:11,520 --> 05:19:14,000
but we truly thank the team for the work that

4460
05:19:14,000 --> 05:19:18,011
they do. Very much appreciate it. Thank you. Council. We

4461
05:19:18,011 --> 05:19:20,251
are going to take a five minute break. We just

4462
05:19:20,251 --> 05:19:22,731
have a couple of items done. I mean, back after

4463
05:19:22,731 --> 05:19:24,811
that. We're going to take just a 510 minutes break.

4464
05:30:56,705 --> 05:31:02,153
You're on right now. I guess we should.

4465
05:32:00,456 --> 05:32:04,983
Thank you. I'm just going to call. This meeting back

4466
05:32:04,983 --> 05:32:08,630
to order. Deputy city clErk. Please thank your worship. We

4467
05:32:08,630 --> 05:32:12,940
are now in service area 21, governance and leadership. Thank

4468
05:32:12,940 --> 05:32:17,924
you, your worship. This is on page 311 of your

4469
05:32:17,924 --> 05:32:22,536
budget volume. Thank you, your worship. The goal of this

4470
05:32:22,536 --> 05:32:25,696
service area is to ensure an accountable and transparent government.

4471
05:32:25,696 --> 05:32:30,696
Through strong counsel and administrative governance. We prioritize transparent and

4472
05:32:30,696 --> 05:32:34,016
responsive information sharing with council and the public through council

4473
05:32:34,016 --> 05:32:38,216
reports, regular city manager updates and memos, consultation and advice.

4474
05:32:40,082 --> 05:32:44,450
And responses to inquiries. Our operational services include council and

4475
05:32:44,450 --> 05:32:50,410
committee meeting management bylaw and policy development, information management, responses

4476
05:32:50,410 --> 05:32:55,250
to council correspondence, access to information and protection of privacy.

4477
05:32:55,250 --> 05:32:57,010
And these are all done with a view to advancing

4478
05:32:57,010 --> 05:33:03,448
council and corporate priorities. While meeting legislative compliance. In terms

4479
05:33:03,448 --> 05:33:07,008
of key accomplishments, this year included a review of an

4480
05:33:07,008 --> 05:33:11,128
update to council's priorities focusing on key initiatives and programs

4481
05:33:11,128 --> 05:33:14,448
to achieve council's goals across the priority areas and the

4482
05:33:14,448 --> 05:33:19,581
2026 preliminary budget reflects these priorities. We also developed a

4483
05:33:19,581 --> 05:33:23,181
new council policy framework for the regular review and development

4484
05:33:23,181 --> 05:33:27,061
of council policies through this effort, council rescinded over 30

4485
05:33:27,061 --> 05:33:30,981
obsolete policies, helping to provide clear and consistent direction to

4486
05:33:30,981 --> 05:33:35,917
the public and staff. Highlighting some continuous improvements. We continue

4487
05:33:35,917 --> 05:33:39,717
to advocate on council priorities with federal and provincial governments

4488
05:33:39,717 --> 05:33:42,397
and engage with the province on initiatives that affect the

4489
05:33:42,397 --> 05:33:47,113
city and local governments more broadly. And operationally, we advise

4490
05:33:47,113 --> 05:33:49,993
on bylaw and policy development to add value to the

4491
05:33:49,993 --> 05:33:53,913
work of other service areas and support digital transformation initiatives

4492
05:33:53,913 --> 05:33:58,519
with guidance on records and privacy considerations. We've also started

4493
05:33:58,519 --> 05:34:01,999
enhancements to our service delivery by using digital solutions to

4494
05:34:01,999 --> 05:34:07,302
automate certain tasks. Looking at our performance measures. Measures. I'll

4495
05:34:07,302 --> 05:34:10,542
start with our policy function. As mentioned, there were quite

4496
05:34:10,542 --> 05:34:14,542
a few council policies that were rescinded, with over 40

4497
05:34:14,542 --> 05:34:17,622
policies reviewed, created or rescinded this year, which is well

4498
05:34:17,622 --> 05:34:20,582
above our target of 15. We do expect this to

4499
05:34:20,582 --> 05:34:25,202
return. To more normal levels in 2026. Through the regular

4500
05:34:25,202 --> 05:34:30,874
review and development of policies. For council correspondence. We've maintained

4501
05:34:30,874 --> 05:34:36,074
responsiveness with respect to responding to correspondence, with responses coming

4502
05:34:36,074 --> 05:34:38,674
from the mayor on behalf of council or from staff

4503
05:34:38,674 --> 05:34:42,994
on operational matters. Council received well over 2500. Pieces of

4504
05:34:42,994 --> 05:34:46,514
correspondence a year, and we're advancing opportunities to improve this

4505
05:34:46,514 --> 05:34:51,515
function through technology solutions. For FOI. Our compliance with legislative

4506
05:34:51,515 --> 05:34:54,955
timelines for access to information requests is slightly above our

4507
05:34:54,955 --> 05:34:59,435
target and higher than comparative municipalities providing responsive service to

4508
05:34:59,435 --> 05:35:02,755
the public. And with that, the financial planning manager will

4509
05:35:02,755 --> 05:35:09,125
provide the budget overview. Thank you. Thank you, Laura. So,

4510
05:35:09,125 --> 05:35:12,805
for the governance and leadership service area, the expenditure budget

4511
05:35:12,805 --> 05:35:18,725
for 2026 is. $5.4 million. This area is operated under

4512
05:35:18,725 --> 05:35:24,299
five cost centers. The funding strategy for 2026 for this

4513
05:35:24,299 --> 05:35:28,419
service area is predominantly property taxes with a small amount

4514
05:35:28,419 --> 05:35:37,093
coming from reserves and other revenues. The 2025 revised budget

4515
05:35:37,093 --> 05:35:44,453
was 4,786,000. After the annualization of previously approved budget requests.

4516
05:35:44,453 --> 05:35:52,062
We will start 2026 at 4,498,000. To maintain current service

4517
05:35:52,062 --> 05:35:57,782
levels, an additional $779,000 is requested. And to enhance service

4518
05:35:57,782 --> 05:36:06,499
levels. An additional $156,000 is requested. The service area has

4519
05:36:06,499 --> 05:36:11,059
two operating requests, and they're found on page 317. The

4520
05:36:11,059 --> 05:36:16,099
first request is for the 2026. Local government election request

4521
05:36:16,099 --> 05:36:22,859
is in 2026 for 374,400. Funded from reserve and then

4522
05:36:22,859 --> 05:36:29,502
ongoing. Is a top up of 40,700 each year to

4523
05:36:29,502 --> 05:36:35,355
be used towards next year's. Election funded from taxation. The

4524
05:36:35,355 --> 05:36:39,355
second request is the council initiatives request. So this is

4525
05:36:39,355 --> 05:36:43,395
the council funding that can be used. For any council

4526
05:36:43,395 --> 05:36:47,355
initiatives throughout 2026 or can be used today. This is

4527
05:36:47,355 --> 05:36:54,375
$150,000. Taxation ongoing. There are no capital requests or priority

4528
05:36:54,375 --> 05:36:58,415
two requests for the service area. Is there any request

4529
05:36:58,415 --> 05:37:03,631
that council would like to discuss. Councilor Cannon, please. Questions.

4530
05:37:03,631 --> 05:37:07,982
Thank you. Two questions. One. Laura. On performance measure three.

4531
05:37:07,982 --> 05:37:11,983
Approximately how many FOI requests you receive a year? Your

4532
05:37:11,983 --> 05:37:16,968
worship does vary year to year on average. We're looking

4533
05:37:16,968 --> 05:37:21,488
at usually between 110 to 120, with varying complexity and

4534
05:37:21,488 --> 05:37:24,928
therefore timelines to respond. Okay, thanks. And on. With regard

4535
05:37:24,928 --> 05:37:29,248
to operating request on 317, the council initiated how much

4536
05:37:29,248 --> 05:37:33,351
was spent in 2025. If you could give me a

4537
05:37:33,351 --> 05:37:35,431
few minutes. You're worshipping? I'm happy to. Get back to

4538
05:37:35,431 --> 05:37:38,071
you on that. Thank you. We will come back. Councilor

4539
05:37:38,071 --> 05:37:44,693
Dehart, please. Well. Thanks. I know. Maybe it's late in

4540
05:37:44,693 --> 05:37:47,742
the day, or maybe. I want you to refresh my

4541
05:37:47,742 --> 05:37:51,342
memory on something. So under the council initiatives, I remember,

4542
05:37:51,342 --> 05:37:56,462
like. Grant funding to support business associations, electric mobility, the

4543
05:37:56,462 --> 05:38:00,222
Incentives program, and public safety tax force. But for the

4544
05:38:00,222 --> 05:38:03,022
life of me, I can't remember or I can't figure

4545
05:38:03,022 --> 05:38:07,182
out our enhancement. Of snow and ice clearing, so. I

4546
05:38:07,182 --> 05:38:09,982
thought that would just have gone under our yards budget.

4547
05:38:11,585 --> 05:38:14,305
I don't get that one and I can't remember it,

4548
05:38:14,305 --> 05:38:18,143
so why would that. Be in there. Because if we

4549
05:38:18,143 --> 05:38:21,846
needed an enhancement of snow and ice clearing, That would

4550
05:38:21,846 --> 05:38:26,573
go in a different budget, wouldn't I? Like council initiatives.

4551
05:38:26,573 --> 05:38:29,293
Thank you, worship. So those are examples of items that

4552
05:38:29,293 --> 05:38:35,544
council has previously funded through. This budget. With the ability

4553
05:38:35,544 --> 05:38:39,264
to respond to emerging items as they've come forward. That

4554
05:38:39,264 --> 05:38:42,504
council has identified and so that's the intent behind that

4555
05:38:42,504 --> 05:38:44,704
budget, is to be able to respond to things. Like.

4556
05:38:46,002 --> 05:38:49,571
Increased funding to business improvement areas. For example, So those

4557
05:38:49,571 --> 05:38:52,888
are examples from the last couple of years. With the

4558
05:38:52,888 --> 05:38:57,128
idea that council would then decide as other opportunities come

4559
05:38:57,128 --> 05:39:01,209
forward on funding from this. And then in future years,

4560
05:39:01,209 --> 05:39:03,529
if those are ongoing, then those would be captured within

4561
05:39:03,529 --> 05:39:07,089
the appropriate service. Area. Okay, I understand that, but I

4562
05:39:07,089 --> 05:39:11,049
don't understand why snow and ice clearing wouldn't. Why that

4563
05:39:11,049 --> 05:39:14,009
would come as a council initiative and why it just

4564
05:39:14,009 --> 05:39:17,729
wouldn't be dealt. With staff. And I guess I just

4565
05:39:17,729 --> 05:39:20,593
don't get that council to hurt Mr. Sass. Please. There's

4566
05:39:20,593 --> 05:39:25,007
something I'm missing. I'm sorry. Thank you, worship. If you

4567
05:39:25,007 --> 05:39:27,007
can recall, over the last few years, it's how we've

4568
05:39:27,007 --> 05:39:31,159
given council. Some latitude outside of. What we have recommended

4569
05:39:31,159 --> 05:39:34,639
to staff within the approved taxation budget. And so, as

4570
05:39:34,639 --> 05:39:38,400
an example, we would have brought forward. A service level

4571
05:39:38,400 --> 05:39:43,085
recommendation and a taxation level to support it. And then

4572
05:39:43,085 --> 05:39:46,365
council would have said, we would like to allocate more

4573
05:39:46,365 --> 05:39:49,645
funds from that, but. Not to increase taxation. So you

4574
05:39:49,645 --> 05:39:53,166
would have allocated a piece of those funds now. They

4575
05:39:53,166 --> 05:39:56,126
will form operationally part of the snow and ice budget,

4576
05:39:56,126 --> 05:39:59,206
but for transparency and showing counsel what you have approved

4577
05:39:59,206 --> 05:40:02,566
historically, based on those priorities, we bring it back and

4578
05:40:02,566 --> 05:40:04,726
show you, okay, that's. Good. I get that. And councilor,

4579
05:40:04,726 --> 05:40:07,806
I think that was your initiative. It was your initiative

4580
05:40:07,806 --> 05:40:10,206
to bring it forward. Mayor, I think you're completely wrong.

4581
05:40:17,018 --> 05:40:18,338
No, I got approval on the other side of the

4582
05:40:18,338 --> 05:40:25,681
table there. Other questions. Other questions. There was that one

4583
05:40:25,681 --> 05:40:30,401
clarification. Melanie, please. Thank you. So in 2025, the council

4584
05:40:30,401 --> 05:40:37,801
initiative budget was $900,000. It was allocated as $478,000 towards

4585
05:40:37,801 --> 05:40:45,147
mayor task force initiatives. $50,000 for bylaw services enforcement coordinator.

4586
05:40:45,147 --> 05:40:52,067
$75,000 was input towards council. Advocacy. 151,000 for two bylaw

4587
05:40:52,067 --> 05:40:58,512
officers and $150,000 for economic development. Thanks. So when we

4588
05:40:58,512 --> 05:41:02,592
help, for example, we gave funding to help the Okanagan

4589
05:41:02,592 --> 05:41:05,112
son go. To the nationals that come under there as

4590
05:41:05,112 --> 05:41:09,809
well. Thank you, your worship, but that comes out of

4591
05:41:09,809 --> 05:41:14,129
the council contingency funding, so every year. In budget, I

4592
05:41:14,129 --> 05:41:19,780
believe we have $35,000 for. Council contingency that is available

4593
05:41:19,780 --> 05:41:23,843
for use throughout the year. As council. Thanks. And we

4594
05:41:23,843 --> 05:41:27,803
still have 185,000 for one time projects under the strategic

4595
05:41:27,803 --> 05:41:31,003
council. Strategic initiatives that is being held in reserve right

4596
05:41:31,003 --> 05:41:36,187
now. Thank you. Thank you. Seeing. No further questions. Laura,

4597
05:41:36,187 --> 05:41:44,336
thank you very much. So we'll now move. To the

4598
05:41:44,336 --> 05:41:46,896
enabling services. And we will welcome the general Manager of

4599
05:41:46,896 --> 05:41:52,387
corporate services, Mr. Joe sass. Thank you. Thank you, Mel.

4600
05:41:52,387 --> 05:41:59,026
And thank you, your worship. Just before I get going.

4601
05:42:00,764 --> 05:42:02,284
Wanted to provide a little bit of an observation of

4602
05:42:02,284 --> 05:42:04,764
today and when I was speaking to the organization and

4603
05:42:04,764 --> 05:42:07,684
council about transitioning to service based budgeting and KPIs a

4604
05:42:07,684 --> 05:42:10,124
few years ago one of the things that I recall

4605
05:42:10,124 --> 05:42:12,844
saying to everyone is that when we get mature with

4606
05:42:12,844 --> 05:42:14,804
this, when we have a budget conversation, it's going to

4607
05:42:14,804 --> 05:42:17,924
be just as much about performance and what we get

4608
05:42:17,924 --> 05:42:21,043
as it is about our investments and in observing. The

4609
05:42:21,043 --> 05:42:24,177
conversation today. I can say it's been a lot of

4610
05:42:24,177 --> 05:42:27,377
conversation around the performance measures and how we're actually doing.

4611
05:42:27,377 --> 05:42:30,137
So just wanted to commend everybody who's been part of

4612
05:42:30,137 --> 05:42:32,657
that because this is exactly what we were trying to

4613
05:42:32,657 --> 05:42:35,417
create when we took that step a few years ago.

4614
05:42:36,913 --> 05:42:38,993
So I will be presenting the budget for our enabling

4615
05:42:38,993 --> 05:42:42,833
services areas which are not always visible, but are crucial

4616
05:42:42,833 --> 05:42:46,753
to delivering our services to our community. These services ranging

4617
05:42:46,753 --> 05:42:52,513
from building services, financial services, human resources, communications fleet and

4618
05:42:52,513 --> 05:42:56,593
information technology provide the foundation that supports the work of

4619
05:42:56,593 --> 05:42:59,999
all. Of our operating departments. Each of these areas plays

4620
05:42:59,999 --> 05:43:02,599
a critical role in enabling us to meet our strategic

4621
05:43:02,599 --> 05:43:08,086
goals, legislative services. Ensures compliance and governance, while risk management

4622
05:43:08,086 --> 05:43:12,206
helps safeguard our operations and our assets. Real estate and

4623
05:43:12,206 --> 05:43:15,526
internal construction delivery help us manage and develop our assets

4624
05:43:15,526 --> 05:43:19,366
efficiently, while strategy and performance and senior leadership guide us

4625
05:43:19,366 --> 05:43:23,806
towards achieving our long term objectives, ensuring we remain accountable

4626
05:43:23,806 --> 05:43:28,138
to our taxpayers. Together, these services ensure that our frontline

4627
05:43:28,138 --> 05:43:31,378
teams can focus on delivering direct value to our citizens.

4628
05:43:32,950 --> 05:43:35,150
As always. There's a lot that the enabling services do,

4629
05:43:35,150 --> 05:43:37,950
but I'll just provide. You a few highlights in line

4630
05:43:37,950 --> 05:43:41,070
with council priorities. So partnering with BC Housing as part

4631
05:43:41,070 --> 05:43:44,790
of the BC builds initiative to deliver approximately 150 units

4632
05:43:44,790 --> 05:43:49,870
on city owned property, partnering with nonprofit to deliver 195

4633
05:43:49,870 --> 05:43:54,074
new rental units, including approximately 80 below market. Implementation of

4634
05:43:54,074 --> 05:43:58,834
our community safety dashboard to enhance transparency to the community

4635
05:43:58,834 --> 05:44:01,354
and show how we're making the city a safer place

4636
05:44:01,354 --> 05:44:06,762
to live. Groundbreaking for the Parkinson Recreation center. So obviously

4637
05:44:06,762 --> 05:44:11,194
a long time coming. The largest project we've ever done

4638
05:44:11,194 --> 05:44:14,394
as a city, as part of the building stronger colona.

4639
05:44:14,394 --> 05:44:17,354
Program as well as breaking ground on the North Glenmore

4640
05:44:17,354 --> 05:44:21,114
Protective Services campus. So another piece of infrastructure that's been

4641
05:44:21,114 --> 05:44:25,479
long awaited by the community. We've also commenced and completed

4642
05:44:25,479 --> 05:44:30,717
a record number. And value of capital projects. As we've

4643
05:44:30,717 --> 05:44:33,757
discussed many times throughout this council term, particularly in the

4644
05:44:33,757 --> 05:44:39,394
last year. We continue to enhance our KPIs and focus

4645
05:44:39,394 --> 05:44:42,554
on targets and benchmarking again to round. Out that conversation

4646
05:44:42,554 --> 05:44:45,914
and to continue to provide better performance data to provide

4647
05:44:45,914 --> 05:44:50,327
context for our budget. And we've designed a new smart

4648
05:44:50,327 --> 05:44:55,047
search to help customers select correct service request types, reducing

4649
05:44:55,047 --> 05:44:58,727
frustration and submission times as we pivot our focus towards

4650
05:44:58,727 --> 05:45:03,226
customer experience as an organization. Talking about a couple of

4651
05:45:03,226 --> 05:45:07,386
our performance measures in the enabling services area. Enabling services

4652
05:45:07,386 --> 05:45:10,506
as a percentage of total budget. I mentioned that key

4653
05:45:10,506 --> 05:45:13,786
performance indicator on Monday. If you look over the long

4654
05:45:13,786 --> 05:45:15,906
term there's a trend down, which is what we like

4655
05:45:15,906 --> 05:45:18,666
to see, and that tells us that we're investing more

4656
05:45:18,666 --> 05:45:22,467
in the frontline service deliverers than we are. In the

4657
05:45:22,467 --> 05:45:24,907
overheads of the organization, which is a story we like

4658
05:45:24,907 --> 05:45:29,307
to tell and making significant progress on our deferred building

4659
05:45:29,307 --> 05:45:33,987
capital renewal. Deferred capital renewal refers to the postponed investments

4660
05:45:33,987 --> 05:45:37,867
required for maintaining and renewing facility assets if not addressed

4661
05:45:37,867 --> 05:45:40,107
in a proactive manner. This tends to cost us more

4662
05:45:40,107 --> 05:45:49,377
money over time. Infrastructure investment, of course. A major. Measure

4663
05:45:49,377 --> 05:45:54,241
given the mandate of current council and one that. We're

4664
05:45:54,241 --> 05:45:56,761
really proud of our planning and delivery teams continuing to

4665
05:45:56,761 --> 05:46:01,704
show strong performance. Safe workplace insurance discount measures and highlights

4666
05:46:01,704 --> 05:46:05,144
our safety performance record at the city and also tracks

4667
05:46:05,144 --> 05:46:09,479
the benefit we receive. In our overall workplace insurance premiums.

4668
05:46:09,479 --> 05:46:12,599
We currently spend over $3 million on these premiums. And

4669
05:46:12,599 --> 05:46:17,233
this measure shows our returning of over 300,000. Obviously, communication

4670
05:46:17,233 --> 05:46:21,113
with our citizens is critically important. So looking at measuring

4671
05:46:21,113 --> 05:46:24,993
our communication channels and touch points, with our citizens is

4672
05:46:24,993 --> 05:46:32,349
important. To measure this. Measure highlights the substantial growth in

4673
05:46:32,349 --> 05:46:36,534
engagement points with our citizens over time. Process automation as

4674
05:46:36,534 --> 05:46:40,254
we look to enhance efficiency. And again, we've had an

4675
05:46:40,254 --> 05:46:43,974
MPI conversation. Thinking about coming in below that. So, looking

4676
05:46:43,974 --> 05:46:46,734
to use innovative technology to be able to offer high

4677
05:46:46,734 --> 05:46:50,940
quality services in a more efficient way. And finally, the

4678
05:46:50,940 --> 05:46:53,580
last one I will show you is a snapshot of

4679
05:46:53,580 --> 05:46:57,900
our financial health indicators. We've discussed these multiple times, but

4680
05:46:57,900 --> 05:47:00,140
just keep in mind that this is something that guides

4681
05:47:00,140 --> 05:47:02,980
every investment decision we make at the city of Kelowna.

4682
05:47:02,980 --> 05:47:04,500
With that said, I will pass. It back to Melanie.

4683
05:47:06,528 --> 05:47:11,528
Thank you, Joe. The enabling service areas combined make up

4684
05:47:11,528 --> 05:47:19,820
$156.7 million of the city's. Expenditure budget enabling. Services includes

4685
05:47:19,820 --> 05:47:23,500
several different cost centers, as you can see on the

4686
05:47:23,500 --> 05:47:27,220
screen, with the largest one being financial services, which includes.

4687
05:47:28,589 --> 05:47:35,856
Debt and other. The funding strategy for the enabling services,

4688
05:47:35,856 --> 05:47:39,296
the majority of it, that enabling allocation that you can

4689
05:47:39,296 --> 05:47:42,736
see. On the screen of $52.6 million. That is the

4690
05:47:42,736 --> 05:47:45,536
amount that has been allocated out over all the service

4691
05:47:45,536 --> 05:47:50,270
areas as services to the community. Could not be delivered

4692
05:47:50,270 --> 05:47:53,990
without the enabling services there to support them. The remainder

4693
05:47:53,990 --> 05:47:57,550
of the area is funded from reserve funding, other revenues,

4694
05:47:57,550 --> 05:48:03,031
fees and charges and grants. The 2025 revised budget was

4695
05:48:03,031 --> 05:48:12,370
$141,337,000. After the annualization of previously approved budget

4696
05:48:12,370 --> 05:48:16,730
requests, the areas will start 2026 with an operating budget

4697
05:48:16,730 --> 05:48:24,379
of 99,667,000. The service areas combined to maintain their current

4698
05:48:24,379 --> 05:48:33,902
service levels are requesting $51,218,000. And to enhance service levels

4699
05:48:33,902 --> 05:48:40,323
and additional 5,839,000. The enabling services has a number of

4700
05:48:40,323 --> 05:48:47,191
priority one operating requests. We'll do them in order. So

4701
05:48:47,191 --> 05:48:52,151
the first area for facilities has facility support, service enhancements.

4702
05:48:52,151 --> 05:49:01,465
Starting at $63,000, increasing to $123,000 ongoing. Facted from taxation.

4703
05:49:01,465 --> 05:49:07,305
Next is facility maintenance at $810,000, ongoing, funded from taxation.

4704
05:49:09,138 --> 05:49:15,016
Next is human resources, organizational development. At $200,000 ongoing, funded

4705
05:49:15,016 --> 05:49:20,575
from taxation. And the pre employment testing software implementation at

4706
05:49:20,575 --> 05:49:28,175
$23,000 funded from reserve under it, we'll start with cybersecurity

4707
05:49:28,175 --> 05:49:33,775
or, sorry, cyberstrategy. At $150,000 ongoing first year funded from

4708
05:49:33,775 --> 05:49:39,602
reserve and then taxation afterwards. The data center as a

4709
05:49:39,602 --> 05:49:47,366
service at $150,000 each year, ongoing, funded from taxation. It

4710
05:49:47,366 --> 05:49:55,126
resourcing redevelopment at $200,000 in 2026, increasing to $400,000 ongoing

4711
05:49:55,126 --> 05:50:01,088
funded from taxation. IT software and services maintenance starting at

4712
05:50:01,088 --> 05:50:09,128
674,000 in 2026, increasing to 682,000 in 2027 and 690,000

4713
05:50:09,128 --> 05:50:16,697
in 2028. Ongoing, all funded from taxation. In real estate.

4714
05:50:18,119 --> 05:50:23,919
The strategic land development projects at $150,000 ongoing first year

4715
05:50:23,919 --> 05:50:28,978
funded from reserve and then ongoing at taxation. In risk

4716
05:50:28,978 --> 05:50:34,098
management. The insurance premiums being requested is an additional $400,000

4717
05:50:34,098 --> 05:50:40,528
ongoing, funded from taxation. The risk management recovery program at

4718
05:50:40,528 --> 05:50:48,689
$104,000. Ongoing, funded from revenues received through the program. The

4719
05:50:48,689 --> 05:50:54,529
security contract increase of 71,000 in 2026, increasing to 75,000

4720
05:50:54,529 --> 05:51:02,983
in 2027. Then 79,000 ongoing funded from taxation. And then

4721
05:51:02,983 --> 05:51:06,943
there is operating and maintenance impacts from the capital request

4722
05:51:06,943 --> 05:51:14,232
from the ten year capital plan. The capital request included

4723
05:51:14,232 --> 05:51:17,752
in these area are all in alignment with the council

4724
05:51:17,752 --> 05:51:22,143
endorsed and funded ten year capital plan. Is there any

4725
05:51:22,143 --> 05:51:27,371
request that council would like to discuss further? Councilor Cannon,

4726
05:51:27,371 --> 05:51:32,171
please. Thank you. Page 341. What's the base budget for

4727
05:51:32,171 --> 05:51:40,886
the security contract? And wondering what facilities were providing the

4728
05:51:40,886 --> 05:51:50,169
services for. One moment, please.

4729
05:51:58,791 --> 05:52:08,444
$1.4 million. Those are for security guards for. Different

4730
05:52:08,444 --> 05:52:12,513
city buildings. Thank you. It just looks like the inflationary

4731
05:52:12,513 --> 05:52:19,161
costs associated with. The security guard program, and it looks

4732
05:52:19,161 --> 05:52:28,132
like it's going up faster. Thank you. Page 345. For

4733
05:52:28,132 --> 05:52:31,132
park washrooms. Growth and renewal. What's the base budget on

4734
05:52:31,132 --> 05:52:39,161
that? Well, there is not just. A specific. Because it

4735
05:52:39,161 --> 05:52:43,511
seems like both. It's a maintenance. And a renovation, so

4736
05:52:43,511 --> 05:52:47,034
I don't know if it's combined operation and capital. Because.

4737
05:52:51,095 --> 05:52:53,455
It talks about maintaining levels of service for park washrooms,

4738
05:52:53,455 --> 05:52:58,562
but it also talks about renovating existing washings. You're worshipping

4739
05:52:58,562 --> 05:53:03,919
the ten year capital plan, the washroom program. Has year

4740
05:53:03,919 --> 05:53:06,439
by year difference. So one year, I believe, will be

4741
05:53:06,439 --> 05:53:12,439
design and renewal of small renewals. Followed by construction of

4742
05:53:12,439 --> 05:53:17,201
future washrooms. So this is a capital program. In just

4743
05:53:17,201 --> 05:53:20,321
the 2026 portion of it. That helps explain. Thanks. The

4744
05:53:20,321 --> 05:53:22,521
next one down for the sports stadium. Is there a

4745
05:53:22,521 --> 05:53:26,516
field identified for that yet, or is it still. Not

4746
05:53:26,516 --> 05:53:32,348
sure. Your worship. This will impact several different fields across

4747
05:53:32,348 --> 05:53:37,491
the city. And I believe they have a program that

4748
05:53:37,491 --> 05:53:41,091
they've built where we will do certain fields. Each year.

4749
05:53:41,091 --> 05:53:43,371
I don't know the fields that are planned for the

4750
05:53:43,371 --> 05:53:46,891
first year. Okay? And. The next page. The fleet management

4751
05:53:46,891 --> 05:53:49,131
system. Just wondering, is that half a million dollars for

4752
05:53:49,131 --> 05:53:52,460
a software program. Thank you, your worship. It would be

4753
05:53:52,460 --> 05:53:56,180
the software program plus the associated peripherals and implementation, so.

4754
05:53:56,180 --> 05:53:58,140
There's some work that has to go in around implementing

4755
05:53:58,140 --> 05:54:01,629
the software. You have to save a lot of fuel

4756
05:54:01,629 --> 05:54:02,989
if it's going to be for half a million just

4757
05:54:02,989 --> 05:54:09,310
for a software. So. Thanks. Appreciate it. Councilor Lovegrove, please.

4758
05:54:09,310 --> 05:54:15,875
Thank you, worship. So. I'm seeing that. There was no

4759
05:54:15,875 --> 05:54:19,355
general taxation in the funding strategy, so I'm guessing came

4760
05:54:19,355 --> 05:54:23,146
out of enabling. Allocation where. You've got each of these

4761
05:54:23,146 --> 05:54:28,346
individual items from taxation. Am I correct on that interpretation?

4762
05:54:28,346 --> 05:54:33,052
Thank you, your worship. There is taxation, funding, but it

4763
05:54:33,052 --> 05:54:36,292
has been allocated to all the different service areas. When

4764
05:54:36,292 --> 05:54:38,212
you were looking at each one, there will be a

4765
05:54:38,212 --> 05:54:40,692
line for enabling allocation. Okay, thank you. That's what I

4766
05:54:40,692 --> 05:54:48,679
thought, okay? So going down the list, then? The. Data

4767
05:54:48,679 --> 05:54:52,569
center. Is that our data catalog that's online right now

4768
05:54:52,569 --> 05:55:00,692
on our website. That's going to. A different infrastructure set.

4769
05:55:00,692 --> 05:55:04,132
Thank you, your worship. That's actually the core data center

4770
05:55:04,132 --> 05:55:07,012
infrastructure that's actually on premise and looking to move that

4771
05:55:07,012 --> 05:55:10,892
off premise to a cloud solution. Okay. And will that

4772
05:55:10,892 --> 05:55:13,772
include fees then, for use? I don't even know if

4773
05:55:13,772 --> 05:55:18,085
it's costed. Out now. It changes the dynamic of how

4774
05:55:18,085 --> 05:55:22,043
the funds are captured. So it's often referred just to

4775
05:55:22,043 --> 05:55:26,270
software as a service versus managing. The actual physical infrastructure

4776
05:55:26,270 --> 05:55:28,390
and amortizing it over time. So it's a very different

4777
05:55:28,390 --> 05:55:33,353
model with a very different funding profile, okay? So we

4778
05:55:33,353 --> 05:55:35,433
don't have to buy the servers and then maintain them

4779
05:55:35,433 --> 05:55:38,633
and amortize. Them. We simply would pay a service provider

4780
05:55:38,633 --> 05:55:41,273
to provide that service to us. Okay, then the last

4781
05:55:41,273 --> 05:55:45,668
question is. Sorry, I'm on page 344. I forgot to

4782
05:55:45,668 --> 05:55:50,868
mention the pages, but page 344, infrastructure operations. Facility $10

4783
05:55:50,868 --> 05:55:58,334
million from reserve. The eventual infrastructure operations facility. What is

4784
05:55:58,334 --> 05:56:02,772
that? I'm sorry, I forgot. Thank you. Your worship, this

4785
05:56:02,772 --> 05:56:07,252
relates to a discussion in the capital planning. The capital

4786
05:56:07,252 --> 05:56:12,698
plan that we had around. The requirement for growth and

4787
05:56:12,698 --> 05:56:16,698
our primarily utility areas and the growth of really their

4788
05:56:16,698 --> 05:56:20,161
works yard that is no longer. An adequate size for

4789
05:56:20,161 --> 05:56:22,281
them as they continue to grow. So there was some

4790
05:56:22,281 --> 05:56:25,121
discussion within the capital. Plan around making sure that we

4791
05:56:25,121 --> 05:56:27,081
had the funds in there to allow for the growth.

4792
05:56:28,445 --> 05:56:32,192
Of our yards to support our utilities. So it could

4793
05:56:32,192 --> 05:56:35,253
be somewhere other than hardy street. In other words, Like

4794
05:56:35,253 --> 05:56:38,493
you said, for capital planning, it's the start. Correct. Okay.

4795
05:56:38,493 --> 05:56:41,693
Thank you, councilor stock. Please. Thank you. I'd like to

4796
05:56:41,693 --> 05:56:49,155
just look at. Page 336. Under facility maintenance. And it's

4797
05:56:49,155 --> 05:56:52,715
kind of a general question on process. So in this

4798
05:56:52,715 --> 05:57:01,618
particular budget, We have. 2026. Requirement of $810,000. I guess

4799
05:57:01,618 --> 05:57:03,698
the question in my mind is why is this coming

4800
05:57:03,698 --> 05:57:09,806
from straight from taxation rather than. Some existing reserve to

4801
05:57:09,806 --> 05:57:13,166
maintain our buildings because many of our other buildings are

4802
05:57:13,166 --> 05:57:15,566
maintained through some reserves. But this one seems to go

4803
05:57:15,566 --> 05:57:19,206
straight to taxation. Thank you, your worship. It's effectively the.

4804
05:57:19,206 --> 05:57:21,606
Increase in the taxation that goes to the reserve so

4805
05:57:21,606 --> 05:57:23,246
that we can pull it out to fund the capital.

4806
05:57:23,246 --> 05:57:25,886
So your way of thinking about it is not incorrect,

4807
05:57:25,886 --> 05:57:27,726
but what this is saying is. We'd like to add

4808
05:57:27,726 --> 05:57:30,437
810,000. Dollars to the funding that would go into that

4809
05:57:30,437 --> 05:57:32,677
reserve that we would then later pull out for. The

4810
05:57:32,677 --> 05:57:35,557
purposes of facility maintenance. So is this potentially, like a

4811
05:57:35,557 --> 05:57:37,517
one year thing? So next year, if we see our

4812
05:57:37,517 --> 05:57:40,557
reserve being built up, it may be funded, our maintenance

4813
05:57:40,557 --> 05:57:44,270
strictly from the reserve. Thank you. That's something we would

4814
05:57:44,270 --> 05:57:48,715
always consider as we do our capital planning. As Mr.

4815
05:57:48,715 --> 05:57:52,155
Edstrom's team has talked about the ongoing work around the

4816
05:57:52,155 --> 05:57:55,035
facility's master plan will be a big piece of determining.

4817
05:57:56,384 --> 05:58:00,304
That kind of reconciliation of our funding to our demand.

4818
05:58:00,304 --> 05:58:02,624
But we also have a performance measure on our deferred

4819
05:58:02,624 --> 05:58:06,129
maintenance. That I mentioned at the very beginning. And so

4820
05:58:06,129 --> 05:58:08,609
the team's done some great work to improve that, but

4821
05:58:08,609 --> 05:58:11,009
there's still a ways to go. So what is the

4822
05:58:11,009 --> 05:58:13,489
base budget for? Our facility maintenance that this will be

4823
05:58:13,489 --> 05:58:18,209
adding to. City manager, please. Yeah, well, the finance team

4824
05:58:18,209 --> 05:58:21,089
is looking up that number. I'll just add. A comment

4825
05:58:21,089 --> 05:58:28,857
probably similar to. What? The comment I made around maintaining

4826
05:58:28,857 --> 05:58:31,935
our parks. While we were trending in a great direction,

4827
05:58:31,935 --> 05:58:34,775
we have a lot of really good data that shows

4828
05:58:34,775 --> 05:58:37,535
we need to continue to invest significantly in our existing

4829
05:58:37,535 --> 05:58:39,295
buildings to keep them up to a standard. Both the

4830
05:58:39,295 --> 05:58:45,654
community council. Employees and contractors are satisfied with. The request

4831
05:58:45,654 --> 05:58:49,849
that came through the budgeting process. And eventually, through my

4832
05:58:49,849 --> 05:58:52,729
review, was much larger than this and we have right

4833
05:58:52,729 --> 05:58:57,615
sized it to fit. Within the targeted taxation rate. So

4834
05:58:57,615 --> 05:59:01,855
we'll continue to work on improved performance in that area

4835
05:59:01,855 --> 05:59:05,175
and bring a performance discussion. In future years. We're trending

4836
05:59:05,175 --> 05:59:06,615
in a good direction, but there's a lot of money

4837
05:59:06,615 --> 05:59:09,415
that's needed to invest in this area. It's one that.

4838
05:59:11,806 --> 05:59:13,446
We? I don't want to say ignored, but I'd say

4839
05:59:13,446 --> 05:59:16,886
that over the years, we didn't fund it to the

4840
05:59:16,886 --> 05:59:18,846
standard that we perhaps should have, and we're playing a

4841
05:59:18,846 --> 05:59:24,476
bit of catch up. Thank you, worship. It's 3.4 million.

4842
05:59:24,476 --> 05:59:28,236
3.83.8 million is the base budget, but. I can tell

4843
05:59:28,236 --> 05:59:30,756
you in terms of that, in and out of reserve,

4844
05:59:30,756 --> 05:59:32,596
there's more funds. Coming out of that reserve than there

4845
05:59:32,596 --> 05:59:35,996
is is going into them. Based on the historical funding

4846
05:59:35,996 --> 05:59:38,476
file. And so that is definitely one of the areas

4847
05:59:38,476 --> 05:59:40,196
on the capital side where there is a little bit

4848
05:59:40,196 --> 05:59:44,851
of pressure, for sure. And just Mr. Edge from reminded

4849
05:59:44,851 --> 05:59:46,811
me that actually the lighting is for Mission Rec park

4850
05:59:46,811 --> 05:59:49,789
and that had been identified. Okay. Thank you very much.

4851
05:59:51,140 --> 05:59:58,330
Council. Any other questions? Comments? Seeing none just from myself.

4852
05:59:58,330 --> 06:00:02,403
Just before we move this on, Nice to see with

4853
06:00:02,403 --> 06:00:07,723
regards to performance measure one, with regards to our operating,

4854
06:00:07,723 --> 06:00:12,283
which used to be at 27 26, now down to

4855
06:00:12,283 --> 06:00:16,163
24 with regards to the amount of growth that we've

4856
06:00:16,163 --> 06:00:19,843
had within it so that our operating cost overhead outside

4857
06:00:19,843 --> 06:00:22,948
of any major infrastructure. Cost is coming down. So good

4858
06:00:22,948 --> 06:00:24,908
work on the team on looking at managing those particular

4859
06:00:24,908 --> 06:00:28,148
items. The one thing that I would comment on is,

4860
06:00:28,148 --> 06:00:32,068
with regards to the request for priorities, looking at as

4861
06:00:32,068 --> 06:00:34,388
you go into just kind of looking at this. Are

4862
06:00:34,388 --> 06:00:39,482
all of. Those items accomplishable within this next year, and

4863
06:00:39,482 --> 06:00:41,842
if they are not accomplishable within this next year. Should

4864
06:00:41,842 --> 06:00:45,642
they potentially be deferred with regards to restructuring or looking

4865
06:00:45,642 --> 06:00:48,042
at the overall tax rate. Just as a thought on

4866
06:00:48,042 --> 06:00:52,262
it. Thank you, worship. That is certainly one of the

4867
06:00:52,262 --> 06:00:57,611
filters that. We apply. Through finances review and the city

4868
06:00:57,611 --> 06:01:00,451
manager's review. And there's a number of things that have

4869
06:01:00,451 --> 06:01:04,211
already been pulled or delayed or pushed later in the

4870
06:01:04,211 --> 06:01:07,731
plan. So I would say that we're reasonably confident everything

4871
06:01:07,731 --> 06:01:11,169
in this plan. Is deliverable on the timeline that we've

4872
06:01:11,169 --> 06:01:14,129
put it. Recognizing on the capital side, we're aiming for

4873
06:01:14,129 --> 06:01:17,729
approximately 75% of that plan. Recognizing things happen on the

4874
06:01:17,729 --> 06:01:22,418
capital side. Thank you. Thank you, Melanie. So this service

4875
06:01:22,418 --> 06:01:26,098
area has two priority, two requests, the first one being

4876
06:01:26,098 --> 06:01:30,378
the infrastructure. Planning and design request with zero cost in

4877
06:01:30,378 --> 06:01:35,858
the first year, but 33,300 in 2027. Ongoing and then

4878
06:01:35,858 --> 06:01:41,987
the IT project feasibility and evaluation at 125,000. Dollars ongoing,

4879
06:01:41,987 --> 06:01:45,147
both from taxation. Is there any questions council has on

4880
06:01:45,147 --> 06:01:48,347
either of those priority two requests? Seeing none. Thank you.

4881
06:01:49,946 --> 06:01:56,960
Your worship. That ends our council deliberations. If you could

4882
06:01:56,960 --> 06:01:59,240
you please give us a few minutes, we can come

4883
06:01:59,240 --> 06:02:05,814
back with the start items. Thank you. Council will take

4884
06:02:05,814 --> 06:02:07,214
just about a five minute break then, please.

4885
06:19:40,362 --> 06:19:42,562
Thank you. Just going to call this meeting back to

4886
06:19:42,562 --> 06:19:46,762
order. City clerk, please. Thank you, your worship. We are

4887
06:19:46,762 --> 06:19:49,242
now in the wrap up and discussion item on the

4888
06:19:49,242 --> 06:19:51,562
agenda, and I'll go. To the general manager of corporate

4889
06:19:51,562 --> 06:20:00,341
services. Thank you, your worship. And thank you for the

4890
06:20:00,341 --> 06:20:04,496
opportunity to go. And look in more detail in light

4891
06:20:04,496 --> 06:20:08,043
of. The question around are we able to deliver all

4892
06:20:08,043 --> 06:20:13,048
of. The software and technology improvements within the plan. We

4893
06:20:13,048 --> 06:20:17,144
do think that there is an opportunity to reduce. Next

4894
06:20:17,144 --> 06:20:19,464
year's operating impact. Just given the timing of some of.

4895
06:20:20,992 --> 06:20:25,135
Those actual service or those technology delivery pieces. And so

4896
06:20:25,135 --> 06:20:27,375
in working with Ms. Antoouns and the city manager, we

4897
06:20:27,375 --> 06:20:31,615
think that we can find about $200,000 of operating associated

4898
06:20:31,615 --> 06:20:35,591
with better recognition of the timing. In when those projects

4899
06:20:35,591 --> 06:20:39,391
will be completed and then the associated ongoing maintenance associated

4900
06:20:39,391 --> 06:20:40,991
with that. So we do think that we can find

4901
06:20:40,991 --> 06:20:44,904
that within the budget today. Thank you, Mr. Sass. Thank

4902
06:20:44,904 --> 06:20:52,820
you. I believe that. Now goes towards your start items.

4903
06:20:54,200 --> 06:20:56,280
And a discussion around the overall tax rate. Correct. And

4904
06:20:56,280 --> 06:20:59,240
I do appreciate you reviewing that initial item. That was

4905
06:20:59,240 --> 06:21:01,200
one of concerns that I had, that there was an

4906
06:21:01,200 --> 06:21:03,200
opportunity there to lay some of those. So I truly

4907
06:21:03,200 --> 06:21:06,480
appreciate that. And as you had said, just looking at

4908
06:21:06,480 --> 06:21:10,288
the start items at this time. So the first start

4909
06:21:10,288 --> 06:21:16,981
item was two firefighters presented as a priority. Too. It's

4910
06:21:16,981 --> 06:21:22,403
on page 130 in the financial plan. Thank you. So

4911
06:21:22,403 --> 06:21:24,843
initially, council, what we need to do with this one

4912
06:21:24,843 --> 06:21:28,483
is put this on the floor as a motion first,

4913
06:21:28,483 --> 06:21:30,963
and then we can have discussion around it and then

4914
06:21:30,963 --> 06:21:34,163
vote on it. From there, please. So I just need

4915
06:21:34,163 --> 06:21:37,443
a motion on this. This is moved by councilor Singh.

4916
06:21:37,443 --> 06:21:42,396
And seconded by councilor Hodge. Discussion around this before we

4917
06:21:42,396 --> 06:21:47,961
vote. Councilor Hodge. Do you have discussion? No, Mr. Mayor.

4918
06:21:47,961 --> 06:21:50,241
In favor of tutor? I think that we can't. Make

4919
06:21:50,241 --> 06:21:52,481
any better investment when it comes to adults and safety

4920
06:21:52,481 --> 06:21:56,321
of our community, then making sure we provide adequate service,

4921
06:21:56,321 --> 06:21:58,441
and I think this only helps to enhance that ability

4922
06:21:58,441 --> 06:22:01,841
to guarantee a safer community. So I think it's well

4923
06:22:01,841 --> 06:22:06,893
worth the investment. Thank you, councilor Sing. Singh. Thank you,

4924
06:22:06,893 --> 06:22:10,045
worship. And I recognize a lot of work has gone

4925
06:22:10,045 --> 06:22:13,693
into our budget. And everyone looked at it with a

4926
06:22:13,693 --> 06:22:17,853
very sharp pencil to ensure we get the best bang

4927
06:22:17,853 --> 06:22:21,573
for our buck as well as our community is safe,

4928
06:22:21,573 --> 06:22:24,773
including the chief in this case. But honestly, if we

4929
06:22:24,773 --> 06:22:31,584
don't keep pace. With the growing community. We're only kicking

4930
06:22:31,584 --> 06:22:35,024
the ball further down to other councils and a couple

4931
06:22:35,024 --> 06:22:37,504
of councils later. They're going to have to hire ten

4932
06:22:37,504 --> 06:22:40,504
more firefighters to keep up. I'm just. Throwing that figure

4933
06:22:40,504 --> 06:22:43,984
out to keep up with the growing community. So what

4934
06:22:43,984 --> 06:22:49,483
I'm saying, just. Like increasing. Our taxes little by little.

4935
06:22:50,626 --> 06:22:53,973
And not little by little to keep up. With the

4936
06:22:53,973 --> 06:22:57,468
needs of the community. I think it's important we keep

4937
06:22:57,468 --> 06:23:04,244
up with the need. Or. The formula that is in

4938
06:23:04,244 --> 06:23:12,888
place. To have. Enough. First responders. In comparison to the

4939
06:23:12,888 --> 06:23:16,288
growing community. So I will, of course, be supporting this.

4940
06:23:16,288 --> 06:23:18,808
I brought this to the floor. So I think it's

4941
06:23:18,808 --> 06:23:20,768
important. I think I'd like to see council. Give it

4942
06:23:20,768 --> 06:23:26,009
some thought. We have rolled back on the lights. That

4943
06:23:26,009 --> 06:23:27,969
was a million dollars that was going to be on.

4944
06:23:27,969 --> 06:23:32,107
The budget. The lights on the bridge, though it comes

4945
06:23:32,107 --> 06:23:37,258
from two different parts. It's still money. That is the

4946
06:23:37,258 --> 06:23:39,658
city. So if there's any juggling that can be done

4947
06:23:39,658 --> 06:23:43,272
at the end of the day. I would appeal to

4948
06:23:43,272 --> 06:23:46,232
my council colleagues to really give this a thought. Thank

4949
06:23:46,232 --> 06:23:50,112
you, councilor stack. Thank you, worship. And thank to my

4950
06:23:50,112 --> 06:23:53,632
colleague for her comments. I guess from my interpretation of

4951
06:23:53,632 --> 06:23:57,699
this and reading the plan. We do have a safety

4952
06:23:57,699 --> 06:23:59,899
levy of 1% that we've added every single year, and

4953
06:23:59,899 --> 06:24:03,099
we're using that to add police officers as well as

4954
06:24:03,099 --> 06:24:07,424
firefighters and. Other safety services, but those are really the

4955
06:24:07,424 --> 06:24:09,504
two big ones. And when I look at the plan,

4956
06:24:10,793 --> 06:24:12,873
It's been laid out by staff. I feel the addition

4957
06:24:12,873 --> 06:24:17,808
of. Four additional firefighters this year is the appropriate level.

4958
06:24:17,808 --> 06:24:19,888
That's the priority one that they want. And have asked

4959
06:24:19,888 --> 06:24:23,048
for, and I feel good. We'll fund that, and we're

4960
06:24:23,048 --> 06:24:25,328
going. With what the request is. I don't think we

4961
06:24:25,328 --> 06:24:27,208
need to go beyond that. We know. We've got a

4962
06:24:27,208 --> 06:24:30,328
very strategic plan in place to build our Glenmore hall

4963
06:24:30,328 --> 06:24:33,848
and staff. It, which we asked earlier today, I think.

4964
06:24:34,632 --> 06:24:35,832
We're right on track with our fire department. I'm very

4965
06:24:35,832 --> 06:24:38,152
proud of the service. Levels that they're offering, and I

4966
06:24:38,152 --> 06:24:41,112
think the request for Ford is the correct request, so.

4967
06:24:41,112 --> 06:24:45,032
I won't be supporting the two additional firefighters beyond that.

4968
06:24:45,032 --> 06:24:49,199
Thank you, Councilor Wolbert. Please. Thanks for worship. I certainly

4969
06:24:49,199 --> 06:24:52,399
respect our fire department and all the hard work that

4970
06:24:52,399 --> 06:24:56,799
they do to improve safety in Kelowna. There's a little

4971
06:24:56,799 --> 06:24:58,919
bit of work that's going on in 2026. That I

4972
06:24:58,919 --> 06:25:02,759
think is very important to inform further investments and councilor

4973
06:25:02,759 --> 06:25:05,879
stack already alluded to the safety levy was. One of

4974
06:25:05,879 --> 06:25:08,559
those steps was to have consistent and steady investment into.

4975
06:25:09,573 --> 06:25:11,653
Safety, which is what's allowed us to bring on those

4976
06:25:11,653 --> 06:25:14,813
four members and bring on members. Every single year. But

4977
06:25:14,813 --> 06:25:17,013
what I think is really important for council to have

4978
06:25:17,013 --> 06:25:19,813
the discussion about is the resourcing plan that's coming forward

4979
06:25:19,813 --> 06:25:23,933
in 2026, I would much rather have that discussion and

4980
06:25:23,933 --> 06:25:28,773
discuss service levels before ad hoc, adding more members without

4981
06:25:28,773 --> 06:25:32,004
hearing the full. Rationale behind it. There's been an immense

4982
06:25:32,004 --> 06:25:34,324
amount of rigor that's gone. Into the budget that's presented

4983
06:25:34,324 --> 06:25:37,644
today, both from Chief Seymour and the city manager. So

4984
06:25:37,644 --> 06:25:40,808
I won't be supporting the additional members this year. But

4985
06:25:40,808 --> 06:25:42,928
I would be interested to know what comes out of

4986
06:25:42,928 --> 06:25:46,184
the 2026 resourcing plan. In the future because I know

4987
06:25:46,184 --> 06:25:48,504
there's a little bit of a rub between the NFPA

4988
06:25:48,504 --> 06:25:52,464
standards and other industry led initiatives. So I think it's

4989
06:25:52,464 --> 06:25:55,224
important that if council we have that resourcing study before

4990
06:25:55,224 --> 06:25:58,024
we make further investments. Your worship. Thank you, councilor. Councilor

4991
06:25:58,024 --> 06:26:04,218
Lovegrove, please. Thanks, your worship. I appreciate my colleagues being

4992
06:26:04,218 --> 06:26:06,938
reluctant to support this and others that are behind it,

4993
06:26:06,938 --> 06:26:12,853
so. I see that this is specifically for station one.

4994
06:26:14,372 --> 06:26:17,201
We've got new high rises coming online. So it's not

4995
06:26:17,201 --> 06:26:20,041
just about wildfires and being in tinder box each summer

4996
06:26:20,041 --> 06:26:23,601
is actually, absolutely. As my colleagues have said, it's about

4997
06:26:23,601 --> 06:26:28,602
growth. And being able to get up and out as

4998
06:26:28,602 --> 06:26:32,082
we are growing, especially downtown. This is now maybe I'm

4999
06:26:32,082 --> 06:26:38,902
wrong. But. I also recognize our chief is in the

5000
06:26:38,902 --> 06:26:42,106
room. And would have been part of the discussion to

5001
06:26:42,106 --> 06:26:44,946
put this to a priority, too. So I see. Both

5002
06:26:44,946 --> 06:26:47,570
sides of this. And I'm just asking, your worship, is

5003
06:26:47,570 --> 06:26:49,650
it appropriate that perhaps we let the expert in? The

5004
06:26:49,650 --> 06:26:52,170
room. Speak to why this became a priority too? No,

5005
06:26:52,170 --> 06:26:55,610
counselor. So we have to decide this. On its own

5006
06:26:55,610 --> 06:26:58,320
merits. Well, I'd like to hear the rest of my

5007
06:26:58,320 --> 06:27:01,520
colleagues before I vote on this or. Maybe we don't

5008
06:27:01,520 --> 06:27:02,920
have. And we got a call to question, but I'm

5009
06:27:02,920 --> 06:27:05,920
uncomfortable. Voting on this without hearing from the experts. Sorry.

5010
06:27:07,845 --> 06:27:10,565
Councilor. I don't see any other. Is there more comments?

5011
06:27:13,240 --> 06:27:16,000
Councilor stack, did you have another comment on that? Thank

5012
06:27:16,000 --> 06:27:18,800
you. So that's where councilor cannon. Thanks, your worship. Just

5013
06:27:18,800 --> 06:27:21,600
is going to remind the council we did hire additional

5014
06:27:21,600 --> 06:27:25,320
four last year as well. Correct. Just one thing. Yes,

5015
06:27:25,320 --> 06:27:30,321
thank you. Any other comments? Seeing none, I will comment

5016
06:27:30,321 --> 06:27:33,881
on it. I think that this whole council recognizes the

5017
06:27:33,881 --> 06:27:36,721
value of the fire department and Chief Seymour and what

5018
06:27:36,721 --> 06:27:38,601
he's been able to do with it, and we have

5019
06:27:38,601 --> 06:27:40,961
been at a number of functions in the last few

5020
06:27:40,961 --> 06:27:45,543
years with the induction. Of new members as. Fire members

5021
06:27:45,543 --> 06:27:48,103
to our community, and we want to continue along that

5022
06:27:48,103 --> 06:27:50,583
line, but we have to put our faith in those

5023
06:27:50,583 --> 06:27:53,543
individuals that turn around and establish these budgets for us.

5024
06:27:53,543 --> 06:27:55,743
And there was great consultation with the chief. There was

5025
06:27:55,743 --> 06:28:00,017
consultation with the city manager and that whole team. We

5026
06:28:00,017 --> 06:28:02,777
are also looking at going through a process of more

5027
06:28:02,777 --> 06:28:05,537
of a service delivery model next year. With regards to

5028
06:28:05,537 --> 06:28:08,017
the number of individuals that we need into the future,

5029
06:28:08,017 --> 06:28:11,617
you can compare it to many different comparisons with regards

5030
06:28:11,617 --> 06:28:13,217
to whether we have the need or whether we don't

5031
06:28:13,217 --> 06:28:15,817
have and I'd rather go through that process and make

5032
06:28:15,817 --> 06:28:18,777
an informed decision more so than go to a point

5033
06:28:18,777 --> 06:28:21,318
of making something. Where it's an item that it ends

5034
06:28:21,318 --> 06:28:23,478
up being we haven't backed up with. Any data and

5035
06:28:23,478 --> 06:28:26,318
we have not informed that information. So I basically put

5036
06:28:26,318 --> 06:28:28,478
it as an uninformed decision at this particular point in

5037
06:28:28,478 --> 06:28:31,278
time. So, seeing no further questions, I call the questions

5038
06:28:31,278 --> 06:28:37,853
all in favor. Opposed. It does not. Carry. And, Chief

5039
06:28:37,853 --> 06:28:40,333
Seymour, you know that's with the utmost respect of you

5040
06:28:40,333 --> 06:28:42,493
and your team. Thank you very much for everything you

5041
06:28:42,493 --> 06:28:46,276
do for our community. Melanie, please. Thank you, your worship.

5042
06:28:47,535 --> 06:28:50,535
The next starred item is the Kelowna go by week,

5043
06:28:50,535 --> 06:28:56,957
go by Bike week. Apologies. $45,000 funded from taxation. Thank

5044
06:28:56,957 --> 06:29:05,555
you. This is moved by Councilor Woolridge, seconded by. Councilor

5045
06:29:05,555 --> 06:29:12,510
Lovegrove. And it has discussion around it. Councilor Wolverich, please.

5046
06:29:12,510 --> 06:29:15,430
Thanks for worship. I think this is a flagship event

5047
06:29:15,430 --> 06:29:18,830
in Kelowna. That's a relatively low number. It improves different

5048
06:29:18,830 --> 06:29:22,750
modes of transportation. And at a $45,000 investment, I think

5049
06:29:22,750 --> 06:29:26,099
there could probably be a way to finance this. Into

5050
06:29:26,099 --> 06:29:28,579
a billion dollar budget. So a bit surprised that this

5051
06:29:28,579 --> 06:29:30,779
was going to end the program in Clona's involvement, so

5052
06:29:30,779 --> 06:29:35,284
I'm supporting. It because it's a relatively low investment, but

5053
06:29:35,284 --> 06:29:37,404
it does bring community together, and it's an important event

5054
06:29:37,404 --> 06:29:40,764
in the community. Thank you, Councilor Lovegrove. Please. Yeah, I

5055
06:29:40,764 --> 06:29:43,364
couldn't. Agree more. It's one of council's priorities to get

5056
06:29:43,364 --> 06:29:45,804
folks out of their cars. And this is just another

5057
06:29:45,804 --> 06:29:49,884
way to encourage folks to get informed, get educated, get

5058
06:29:49,884 --> 06:29:54,941
onto a bike and try active living. It's also impacting

5059
06:29:54,941 --> 06:29:59,457
and benefits our health. We put hundreds of thousands of

5060
06:29:59,457 --> 06:30:02,008
dollars in the bike paths. We better use them, and

5061
06:30:02,008 --> 06:30:04,408
I think this is one way to encourage that use,

5062
06:30:04,408 --> 06:30:09,182
and it's ongoing. We need this. Not approving this. Would

5063
06:30:09,182 --> 06:30:11,942
actually cancel the bike to work week for Clona. That's

5064
06:30:11,942 --> 06:30:14,462
not a reputation I want to have on city council.

5065
06:30:16,317 --> 06:30:19,117
Thank you. Councilor Stack, please. Yes, I just wonder. There

5066
06:30:19,117 --> 06:30:22,677
was some discussion in the presentation today. About perhaps looking

5067
06:30:22,677 --> 06:30:27,597
for other community involvement in this particular program, perhaps a

5068
06:30:27,597 --> 06:30:29,317
partnership. And I wonder if this is something that couldn't

5069
06:30:29,317 --> 06:30:32,517
be handed over to our partnerships office to consider seeing

5070
06:30:32,517 --> 06:30:34,597
if there was some sponsors or others that would like

5071
06:30:34,597 --> 06:30:37,835
to participate so that. The city doesn't carry 100% of

5072
06:30:37,835 --> 06:30:42,863
this cost, and maybe there's opportunities to. Find. Teamwork through

5073
06:30:42,863 --> 06:30:45,823
the partnership office. Just a suggestion, councilor Stacca. Maybe just

5074
06:30:45,823 --> 06:30:48,223
get the city manager to address your question, please. Yeah.

5075
06:30:48,223 --> 06:30:51,823
Thank you. Your ship. If I'm reading the tea leaves.

5076
06:30:51,823 --> 06:30:53,423
There seems to be a bit of general support for

5077
06:30:53,423 --> 06:30:56,552
the idea of this program. And if council were to

5078
06:30:56,552 --> 06:30:58,792
direct us to look for funding source and bring it

5079
06:30:58,792 --> 06:31:01,152
back prior to final budget. Be happy to do that

5080
06:31:01,152 --> 06:31:07,437
for you. Prior to final budget. We'll look for a

5081
06:31:07,437 --> 06:31:10,117
funding source, either internally or through a partnership, and see

5082
06:31:10,117 --> 06:31:11,357
if we can find a way to fund it for

5083
06:31:11,357 --> 06:31:12,837
you and bring it back as part of final budget.

5084
06:31:15,858 --> 06:31:18,658
Council deart comments well, I just think that's a great

5085
06:31:18,658 --> 06:31:24,621
idea. Both. From the city manager and from councilor Stack,

5086
06:31:24,621 --> 06:31:26,621
as I think there will be people out there. That

5087
06:31:26,621 --> 06:31:29,221
would like to support it. Not that it's, and because

5088
06:31:29,221 --> 06:31:31,101
of the amount that it is, but I think a

5089
06:31:31,101 --> 06:31:34,779
partnership would be really great and. That would take also,

5090
06:31:34,779 --> 06:31:38,179
they would probably like to enhance the event and do

5091
06:31:38,179 --> 06:31:40,619
the event instead of the city doing it. I think

5092
06:31:40,619 --> 06:31:42,499
it would be really great. I would certainly be in

5093
06:31:42,499 --> 06:31:44,819
favor of that. Thank you. I'm going to ask the

5094
06:31:44,819 --> 06:31:48,699
city clerk just to kind of put those. Words into

5095
06:31:48,699 --> 06:31:51,219
an understanding, and then we can go from there. I

5096
06:31:51,219 --> 06:31:54,841
know where it's up. And there's a motion, and this

5097
06:31:54,841 --> 06:31:56,641
has been moved, and we were speaking to it, but.

5098
06:31:58,115 --> 06:31:59,715
I'll let her speak, and then we'll go from there.

5099
06:31:59,715 --> 06:32:03,035
Please. Thank you, worship. So with the intent to identify

5100
06:32:03,035 --> 06:32:06,075
a funding source that would have no impact on taxation,

5101
06:32:06,075 --> 06:32:12,691
of course. That would be. Pending. Those discussions and negotiations,

5102
06:32:12,691 --> 06:32:14,891
but the direction would be that council amends that. Kelowna,

5103
06:32:14,891 --> 06:32:17,491
go. By bike, p two. Item on page 204 to

5104
06:32:17,491 --> 06:32:20,611
p. One and direct staff to identify a funding source

5105
06:32:20,611 --> 06:32:25,124
for final budget considerations with no impact on taxation. This

5106
06:32:25,124 --> 06:32:27,484
has been moved and seconded, so I'm going to ask

5107
06:32:27,484 --> 06:32:33,363
the question all in. Favor. Opposed. Carried. Thank you. Thank

5108
06:32:33,363 --> 06:32:35,403
you, your worship. The next one is the one that

5109
06:32:35,403 --> 06:32:40,653
Mr. Sass identified. Is the reduction of the operating and

5110
06:32:40,653 --> 06:32:46,101
maintenance of some. It major system enhancement projects that is

5111
06:32:46,101 --> 06:32:52,356
not required in 2026. So a reduction of $200,000. So

5112
06:32:52,356 --> 06:32:54,716
can I have a mover on that, please? Move by

5113
06:32:54,716 --> 06:32:57,516
Councilor Weber, seconded by. Councilor Lovegrove. I'm not certain there's

5114
06:32:57,516 --> 06:32:59,756
any discussion on that required. If there isn't. All in

5115
06:32:59,756 --> 06:33:05,029
favor? Opposed. Carried. Thank you. Thank you, your worship. So

5116
06:33:05,029 --> 06:33:09,109
that results in an end of day tax increase of

5117
06:33:09,109 --> 06:33:16,485
4.37%. Wow. Fantastic. Mr. Sasson team. That is amazing. Thank

5118
06:33:16,485 --> 06:33:18,085
you very much for the work that you did. And

5119
06:33:18,085 --> 06:33:20,685
thank you for making that all work out. Very, very

5120
06:33:20,685 --> 06:33:24,525
much appreciated. City clerk, please. Thank you, worship. With that

5121
06:33:24,525 --> 06:33:27,805
in mind, we do need a final motion and resolution

5122
06:33:27,805 --> 06:33:31,805
from council that reflects. That final tax increase. So this

5123
06:33:31,805 --> 06:33:35,754
would be that. The 2026 financial plan, volume one preliminary

5124
06:33:35,754 --> 06:33:40,154
budget, as amended by council and resulting in a 4.37%

5125
06:33:40,154 --> 06:33:44,354
tax increase be approved subject to final budget considerations. Thank

5126
06:33:44,354 --> 06:33:46,634
you. Just before I move. That forward. I'm just wondering.

5127
06:33:46,634 --> 06:33:50,176
From the finance team, Mr. Sasswell. Is there any more

5128
06:33:50,176 --> 06:33:52,256
comments? I thank you for the work that you've done.

5129
06:33:52,256 --> 06:33:54,056
I think it is very clear what council will be

5130
06:33:54,056 --> 06:33:58,485
voting on and commenting on. No further comments. Just to

5131
06:33:58,485 --> 06:34:01,685
thank you to Mel, who carries the torch all day.

5132
06:34:03,300 --> 06:34:05,540
And Jay and his team. And you can't see Jay's

5133
06:34:05,540 --> 06:34:09,020
team, but they're in the back somewhere answering all of

5134
06:34:09,020 --> 06:34:11,860
our, what is our opening budget? Questions, and so just.

5135
06:34:11,860 --> 06:34:14,580
A big thank you to Mel and Jay and the

5136
06:34:14,580 --> 06:34:16,420
rest of the budget team that you can't see for

5137
06:34:16,420 --> 06:34:17,660
all their great work. Thank you.

5138
06:34:29,621 --> 06:34:32,941
Thank you, Mr. Sass. And Melanie, obviously, thank you. Any

5139
06:34:32,941 --> 06:34:34,861
comments that you would like to make? Before we move

5140
06:34:34,861 --> 06:34:42,684
on? No, thank you, you, worship. Thank you. Didn't mean

5141
06:34:42,684 --> 06:34:46,794
to put you on the spot. Be polite. You've heard

5142
06:34:46,794 --> 06:34:51,538
enough of me today. That's why we have her. I'm

5143
06:34:51,538 --> 06:34:53,418
just going to go back to the city clerk one

5144
06:34:53,418 --> 06:34:56,818
more time, just for clarification. To kind of state exactly

5145
06:34:56,818 --> 06:34:59,258
what we're voting on on this last phase. Thank you,

5146
06:34:59,258 --> 06:35:02,218
worship. So with the amendments that council has decided on,

5147
06:35:04,786 --> 06:35:06,586
The final resolution that we are looking for is that

5148
06:35:06,586 --> 06:35:10,786
the 2026 financial plan, the volume one. Preliminary budget, as

5149
06:35:10,786 --> 06:35:15,706
amended by council and resulting in a 4.37% tax increase,

5150
06:35:15,706 --> 06:35:19,226
be approved. Subject to final budget considerations. Thank you. So,

5151
06:35:19,226 --> 06:35:21,386
do I have a mover? Please move by councilor. Wolverge

5152
06:35:21,386 --> 06:35:25,417
seconded by councilor Hodge. Discussion. Just before we vote on

5153
06:35:25,417 --> 06:35:30,448
it, councilor Singh. Okay. Thank you. So, discussion councilor Dehart.

5154
06:35:34,227 --> 06:35:36,547
I think this has been a really good budget, and

5155
06:35:36,547 --> 06:35:39,387
I really like the way that it was. Presented. I

5156
06:35:39,387 --> 06:35:42,827
remember how we used to pull pages and mail. You

5157
06:35:42,827 --> 06:35:47,163
sat there. But anyway. In not even saying that. Thank

5158
06:35:47,163 --> 06:35:50,043
you. I really want to say thanks to the staff,

5159
06:35:50,043 --> 06:35:54,203
including the city manager Laura everybody. Mr. Sass, your team

5160
06:35:54,203 --> 06:35:58,003
and council really like to thank council for the robust

5161
06:35:58,003 --> 06:36:00,763
discussion. I think it was a very good budget, and

5162
06:36:00,763 --> 06:36:04,043
I'm really happy at the percentage that we came to,

5163
06:36:04,043 --> 06:36:07,459
and I think that the citizens will be very. Happy

5164
06:36:07,459 --> 06:36:10,099
with what we've given them, considering they're always asking us

5165
06:36:10,099 --> 06:36:12,619
for added services. And I think we've done a great

5166
06:36:12,619 --> 06:36:16,179
job. And compared to just about everybody else in the

5167
06:36:16,179 --> 06:36:20,256
province. I think that we've done an exceptional job. So

5168
06:36:20,256 --> 06:36:24,336
thank you. Thank you, councilor stock. Please. Thank you. I'll

5169
06:36:24,336 --> 06:36:27,176
continue on with the accolades. I want to thank our

5170
06:36:27,176 --> 06:36:29,216
city manager. Because I know this is not a day

5171
06:36:29,216 --> 06:36:32,929
project. This is about a six month project. And Mr.

5172
06:36:32,929 --> 06:36:36,729
Sass and Melanie as well, for an excellent presentation today,

5173
06:36:36,729 --> 06:36:41,456
but overall. The one document that Mr. Sass handed out

5174
06:36:41,456 --> 06:36:45,216
this morning which shows the cumulative tax increases over this

5175
06:36:45,216 --> 06:36:51,120
term for ourselves and many of our comparative cities. Really

5176
06:36:51,120 --> 06:36:54,920
emphasizes the consistency that the city has adopted to keep

5177
06:36:54,920 --> 06:36:58,080
our tax increases between four and 5%. On a consistent

5178
06:36:58,080 --> 06:37:00,733
basis. Which I know sometimes sounds a lot, but when

5179
06:37:00,733 --> 06:37:02,573
you put it in perspective to what the other cities

5180
06:37:02,573 --> 06:37:07,690
are doing. I think any of them would be thrilled

5181
06:37:07,690 --> 06:37:09,890
if they could come up with a budget like this.

5182
06:37:09,890 --> 06:37:12,250
But on top of that, it's not just the budget

5183
06:37:12,250 --> 06:37:18,763
amount. And what we're charging. The amount of development and

5184
06:37:18,763 --> 06:37:22,643
capital projects that we are doing is phenomenal. Like I've

5185
06:37:22,643 --> 06:37:25,403
been on council for many, many years, and we've never

5186
06:37:25,403 --> 06:37:29,683
seen anything like our road packages. Expanding. We've never seen

5187
06:37:29,683 --> 06:37:32,963
anything like our community centers that are underway. The Parkinson's.

5188
06:37:32,963 --> 06:37:36,317
Breck center. The new community center in Rutland, a new

5189
06:37:36,317 --> 06:37:39,317
community center in the mission and one in Glenmore. Which

5190
06:37:39,317 --> 06:37:41,437
has been on the books for years and years. But

5191
06:37:41,437 --> 06:37:44,357
when you look at the cumulative amount of work that's

5192
06:37:44,357 --> 06:37:46,797
being accomplished at the same time that we're able to

5193
06:37:46,797 --> 06:37:50,475
keep our taxes at this low level. Is phenomenal. And

5194
06:37:50,475 --> 06:37:54,435
it goes back to very, very good strategic financial planning

5195
06:37:54,435 --> 06:37:56,515
that we're able to do this. I was just listening

5196
06:37:56,515 --> 06:37:58,515
to a story very briefly the other day about Prince

5197
06:37:58,515 --> 06:38:00,835
George is looking at closing their main pool for two

5198
06:38:00,835 --> 06:38:04,755
years because their maintenance has fallen so far. Behind that

5199
06:38:04,755 --> 06:38:06,995
they're looking at, they would lose two years of swim

5200
06:38:06,995 --> 06:38:09,355
programs. And you can just imagine the kind of impact

5201
06:38:09,355 --> 06:38:12,592
that would have. On their community. But here we're looking

5202
06:38:12,592 --> 06:38:17,238
at adding. A brand new ten lane pool to ours,

5203
06:38:17,238 --> 06:38:20,549
as well as maintaining the existing services we have. So

5204
06:38:20,549 --> 06:38:22,309
I just think it's something we as a council, and

5205
06:38:22,309 --> 06:38:24,989
I think the city staff. Should take great pride in

5206
06:38:24,989 --> 06:38:26,909
the amount of things that are being accomplished at the

5207
06:38:26,909 --> 06:38:30,509
budget that we're bringing forward, so kudos to all. Thank

5208
06:38:30,509 --> 06:38:35,677
you. Councilor Singh, was that you? Thank you. I didn't

5209
06:38:35,677 --> 06:38:39,648
realize. I was supposed to comment at that stage when

5210
06:38:39,648 --> 06:38:42,408
you asked me to speak, but I, too, concur. With

5211
06:38:42,408 --> 06:38:47,878
what my colleagues say. Thank you, Mr. Sas. For taking

5212
06:38:47,878 --> 06:38:52,887
all my basic questions and walking me through everything. And

5213
06:38:52,887 --> 06:38:56,247
simplifying it for me. Thank you, Mel. Thank you, team,

5214
06:38:56,247 --> 06:39:01,646
for everything. And your worship. We should be so proud

5215
06:39:01,646 --> 06:39:05,469
that. With such a progressive city that's growing so fast.

5216
06:39:06,855 --> 06:39:08,815
We're still able to keep our taxes at the level

5217
06:39:08,815 --> 06:39:11,215
they're at and provide the service to the best of

5218
06:39:11,215 --> 06:39:14,655
our ability. We have issues that we're dealing with that

5219
06:39:14,655 --> 06:39:20,120
are not municipal issues, and yet. Though we are spending

5220
06:39:20,120 --> 06:39:24,160
money on end, we're still able to keep our taxes

5221
06:39:24,160 --> 06:39:26,080
at the lower end of the spectrum. I just want

5222
06:39:26,080 --> 06:39:29,875
to take a second. And thank one of our citizens

5223
06:39:29,875 --> 06:39:33,635
who comes every year. Thank you very much for your

5224
06:39:33,635 --> 06:39:37,319
interest and support. In our budget. You came late today.

5225
06:39:37,319 --> 06:39:39,839
I was looking for you this morning. Thank you for

5226
06:39:39,839 --> 06:39:42,719
being. Here. Thank you, worship. Thank you, councilor. Love, girl,

5227
06:39:42,719 --> 06:39:46,308
please. Thanks to your worship. It's not lost on me

5228
06:39:46,308 --> 06:39:49,588
that the opening comments from our city. Manager said if

5229
06:39:49,588 --> 06:39:53,228
not for the ability of his expert team, we would

5230
06:39:53,228 --> 06:39:57,068
be looking at an 11% tax increase. And this is

5231
06:39:57,068 --> 06:40:00,388
4.37. It's even below what we started with. During the

5232
06:40:00,388 --> 06:40:03,375
day. So I just want to thank the city manager

5233
06:40:03,375 --> 06:40:06,535
and his team for that. Having said that, and I

5234
06:40:06,535 --> 06:40:11,105
suspect. There will be other colleagues that echo this comment.

5235
06:40:13,184 --> 06:40:18,635
Citizens see the inflation rate at 2.6. So we need

5236
06:40:18,635 --> 06:40:21,355
to be cognizant of we are above the consumer price

5237
06:40:21,355 --> 06:40:23,115
index and we had the report on. Was it Monday?

5238
06:40:24,584 --> 06:40:27,224
About the municipal. We're even below the municipal price index

5239
06:40:27,224 --> 06:40:30,977
increase if you look at that. That was 4.9. All

5240
06:40:30,977 --> 06:40:34,457
that to say. It's tough, but I appreciate that during

5241
06:40:34,457 --> 06:40:38,821
this term. We've been fiscally responsible overall compared to our

5242
06:40:38,821 --> 06:40:42,580
comparator communities. Everybody's in the same boat, and we're doing

5243
06:40:42,580 --> 06:40:44,300
the best we can, and I. Think we've got the

5244
06:40:44,300 --> 06:40:47,620
best team to do the best we can. Thank you,

5245
06:40:47,620 --> 06:40:51,220
councilor. Cannon, please. Thank you, worship. And, yeah, Cologne is

5246
06:40:51,220 --> 06:40:54,580
an exceptional city, and I'm honored to serve with you

5247
06:40:54,580 --> 06:40:58,959
folks and the residents who call at home. And we've

5248
06:40:58,959 --> 06:41:02,959
got some exciting things happening, especially if the upcoming Memorial

5249
06:41:02,959 --> 06:41:07,593
cup hosting the lions. BC's summer games. A lot of

5250
06:41:07,593 --> 06:41:09,273
great things, and I want to acknowledge the hard work

5251
06:41:09,273 --> 06:41:11,753
of our staff and the many positive developments that contribute

5252
06:41:11,753 --> 06:41:14,753
to the quality of life. However, with that acknowledgment must

5253
06:41:14,753 --> 06:41:19,793
come responsibility. And today our responsibility is fiscal stewardship. So

5254
06:41:19,793 --> 06:41:23,871
more and more I hear from concerns from residents. That

5255
06:41:23,871 --> 06:41:28,751
the overdevelopmental proper infrastructure, parking problems. We continue to have

5256
06:41:28,751 --> 06:41:32,751
issues with regard to worsening Tropic, as Mac alluded to

5257
06:41:32,751 --> 06:41:35,631
millions spent in homelessness and community safety with limited results

5258
06:41:35,631 --> 06:41:40,370
and taxes that continue to place inflation. Many employers are

5259
06:41:40,370 --> 06:41:43,376
finding it difficult. To find and retain staff because of

5260
06:41:43,376 --> 06:41:45,856
the cost of living in Clona, especially the affordability of

5261
06:41:45,856 --> 06:41:49,416
housing residents, likewise are telling me they're struggling to keep

5262
06:41:49,416 --> 06:41:53,056
up with rising expenses, so I also understand the MPI

5263
06:41:53,056 --> 06:41:56,656
or municipal price index as the cost of city incurs

5264
06:41:56,656 --> 06:42:00,143
to operate. As my steam colleague across the way mentioned

5265
06:42:00,143 --> 06:42:03,835
on Monday. It's a resident, especially seniors and folks on

5266
06:42:03,835 --> 06:42:07,544
fixed income. It doesn't matter because. Their income is based

5267
06:42:07,544 --> 06:42:10,584
on consumer price index, or CPI, which actually right now

5268
06:42:10,584 --> 06:42:16,464
in BC is 2.3%. So this 4.3% increases about 45%

5269
06:42:16,464 --> 06:42:18,944
above the CPI and simply more than many households, I

5270
06:42:18,944 --> 06:42:22,933
believe, and businesses can manage at this time because. We're

5271
06:42:22,933 --> 06:42:27,315
living in some very. Uncertain economic times. Unemployment is elevated.

5272
06:42:28,669 --> 06:42:32,949
And budget proposes to add additional staffing to grow by

5273
06:42:32,949 --> 06:42:36,709
40% beyond the population growth to me. That's not sustainable.

5274
06:42:36,709 --> 06:42:42,309
So fiscal responsibility requires discipline, prioritization and efficiency. So bigger.

5275
06:42:42,309 --> 06:42:45,869
Budgets and larger bureaucracies do not automatically produce better outcomes.

5276
06:42:47,319 --> 06:42:49,999
Citizens also told me that our current homelessness strategy is

5277
06:42:49,999 --> 06:42:53,359
not reducing illegal sheltering across the community. Many states actually

5278
06:42:53,359 --> 06:42:56,199
gotten worse, which I talked about earlier this morning. If

5279
06:42:56,199 --> 06:42:57,959
we want better results, I believe we need to take

5280
06:42:57,959 --> 06:43:00,999
a different approach. Our residents expect us to focus on

5281
06:43:00,999 --> 06:43:04,719
core services. And essential. So when council considers multimillion dollar

5282
06:43:04,719 --> 06:43:07,932
decorative signage where many families are struggling with. Basic expenses.

5283
06:43:07,932 --> 06:43:09,892
To me, it sends the wrong signal about our priorities.

5284
06:43:11,568 --> 06:43:12,928
So, you worship, for all these reasons, and out of

5285
06:43:12,928 --> 06:43:15,848
respect for the financial capacity our community, I cannot support

5286
06:43:15,848 --> 06:43:20,808
the 4.37% tax increase. I believe fiscal responsibility is not

5287
06:43:20,808 --> 06:43:23,568
simply an accounting. Exercise. It's a commitment to ensuring that

5288
06:43:23,568 --> 06:43:26,928
government lives within its means. Justice families are expected to

5289
06:43:26,928 --> 06:43:29,328
do every day. I hear that over and over, all

5290
06:43:29,328 --> 06:43:31,803
levels of government are living beyond their means and. I

5291
06:43:31,803 --> 06:43:33,483
believe colonial is no exception. So I believe we can

5292
06:43:33,483 --> 06:43:36,923
deliver responsible budget, but only if we focus on essential

5293
06:43:36,923 --> 06:43:40,683
strength and accountability efficiencies and align tax increases with what

5294
06:43:40,683 --> 06:43:44,923
residents can realistically afford. Thank you, worship. Thank you. Councilor

5295
06:43:44,923 --> 06:43:49,485
Hodge, please. Thank you, Mr. Nair. Well, first of all,

5296
06:43:49,485 --> 06:43:53,045
ingest, but not give me my fireman now. If we

5297
06:43:53,045 --> 06:43:58,287
did so well. That being said, I want to jump

5298
06:43:58,287 --> 06:44:03,855
in on. The low fest for our staff and our

5299
06:44:03,855 --> 06:44:07,335
city and appreciate you for the kind of day we've

5300
06:44:07,335 --> 06:44:14,228
had. And. Although everyone might agree, I think a superb,

5301
06:44:14,228 --> 06:44:20,008
well handled. Taxation budget. And I just want to make

5302
06:44:20,008 --> 06:44:25,699
a side comment. Earlier tonight, during the deliberations, I had

5303
06:44:25,699 --> 06:44:32,186
a little choking session. Not uncommon. And I was talking

5304
06:44:32,186 --> 06:44:34,906
pretty good, and I went around the door and opened

5305
06:44:34,906 --> 06:44:37,826
the corner because they didn't want to disturb the entire

5306
06:44:37,826 --> 06:44:41,507
room. And the next thing you know, someone's hands on

5307
06:44:41,507 --> 06:44:44,591
my back. Great concern in his voice and says, are

5308
06:44:44,591 --> 06:44:47,645
you okay? Can I help you? This is Mr. South.

5309
06:44:49,529 --> 06:44:52,428
Now here's a man. I'm supposed to be the most

5310
06:44:52,428 --> 06:44:58,328
important day of his year. Under full stress, I'm sure

5311
06:44:58,328 --> 06:45:02,978
responsible for the entire performance. He's made his whole thing

5312
06:45:02,978 --> 06:45:07,098
work, and he's in the back alley here with a

5313
06:45:07,098 --> 06:45:11,843
whole little counselor of my house. That's a character of

5314
06:45:11,843 --> 06:45:15,327
the man, that he would take the time. And this

5315
06:45:15,327 --> 06:45:18,487
moment to care about someone else and thought, I just

5316
06:45:18,487 --> 06:45:23,807
want to thank you. It's a quality person. That does

5317
06:45:23,807 --> 06:45:26,687
that. And I just thought today of all days for

5318
06:45:26,687 --> 06:45:28,447
him to do that, so I just want to say

5319
06:45:28,447 --> 06:45:30,367
thank you, and I think it's important that I'd say.

5320
06:45:30,367 --> 06:45:32,927
That and follow up because you deserve it. Thank you,

5321
06:45:32,927 --> 06:45:36,807
Mr. Mayor. Councilor Hodge. Thank you. And Mr. Sass. Thank

5322
06:45:36,807 --> 06:45:43,306
you, Councilor Wolverich, please. Thanks for worship. Being this is

5323
06:45:43,306 --> 06:45:45,706
our final budget of this term, which is hard to

5324
06:45:45,706 --> 06:45:47,848
believe. I do want to take a little bit of

5325
06:45:47,848 --> 06:45:50,500
time and so bear with me. I just want to.

5326
06:45:50,500 --> 06:45:52,500
Really want to say that I'm really proud of the

5327
06:45:52,500 --> 06:45:55,740
city that. We're building together, along with council and some

5328
06:45:55,740 --> 06:45:58,820
of the best 1200 staff in Canada in my view,

5329
06:45:58,820 --> 06:46:02,498
including our city manager. Director, finance and the senior leadership

5330
06:46:02,498 --> 06:46:06,149
team and everyone that supports them. It's not lost to

5331
06:46:06,149 --> 06:46:08,269
me that we've accelerated our capital program by more than

5332
06:46:08,269 --> 06:46:12,509
300% and a pace of investment that the city has

5333
06:46:12,509 --> 06:46:15,695
never seen before. Some of my colleagues have mentioned wanting

5334
06:46:15,695 --> 06:46:19,415
to see more capital investment into infrastructure to support housing

5335
06:46:19,415 --> 06:46:21,135
and that's what we've been doing. We've been building more

5336
06:46:21,135 --> 06:46:25,575
parks, recreation facilities. Public spaces and a scale that has

5337
06:46:25,575 --> 06:46:31,027
been unmatched. From previous council terms, and the budget for

5338
06:46:31,027 --> 06:46:35,947
me really had no surprises. It reflected numerous council meetings

5339
06:46:35,947 --> 06:46:40,214
and collective decisions where we all came together. And with

5340
06:46:40,214 --> 06:46:42,894
administration to inform the financial plan. This doesn't just happen

5341
06:46:42,894 --> 06:46:46,491
in one day. And the majority of the budget isn't

5342
06:46:46,491 --> 06:46:48,931
taxpayer funded, and we're one of the only municipalities that

5343
06:46:48,931 --> 06:46:52,371
does that. We rely on revenues, grants, fees and charges.

5344
06:46:53,722 --> 06:46:55,962
And many service reviews of different departments to make sure

5345
06:46:55,962 --> 06:46:59,362
that we're operating optimally and with that colon has always

5346
06:46:59,362 --> 06:47:03,682
had the methodology of a consistent, stable and predictable tax

5347
06:47:03,682 --> 06:47:06,002
rate. When we saw the chart at the beginning of

5348
06:47:06,002 --> 06:47:08,842
the meeting. We saw how there's peaks and valleys. Through

5349
06:47:08,842 --> 06:47:12,602
different municipalities, and we've always maintained consistency in that 4%.

5350
06:47:14,133 --> 06:47:16,999
So that we're predictable. Most of what we saw in

5351
06:47:16,999 --> 06:47:22,473
the budget were contractable. Obligations like policing and fire and

5352
06:47:22,473 --> 06:47:27,353
wage agreements dealing with rapid population growth and then also

5353
06:47:27,353 --> 06:47:32,681
resident expectations. To maintain and improve our services. As counselors,

5354
06:47:32,681 --> 06:47:36,521
our inboxes are often filled with more demands for investment

5355
06:47:36,521 --> 06:47:40,081
into safety, transit parks. It goes on and on. And

5356
06:47:40,081 --> 06:47:43,764
then we forward those on to the city manager. With

5357
06:47:43,764 --> 06:47:48,004
requests and demands like sandy dumps and other solutions that

5358
06:47:48,004 --> 06:47:49,444
we ask for. And we ask them to be done

5359
06:47:49,444 --> 06:47:53,011
quickly, and we ask them to be done. To make

5360
06:47:53,011 --> 06:47:56,142
lives better. In fact. The public are reaching out to

5361
06:47:56,142 --> 06:47:59,662
save $50,000 programs to make sure that they can be

5362
06:47:59,662 --> 06:48:02,422
enjoyed in the community, and so that doesn't happen by

5363
06:48:02,422 --> 06:48:08,214
accident and predictability. Requires planning and investment, and so for

5364
06:48:08,214 --> 06:48:12,491
me to be responsible is to respond to that. And.

5365
06:48:13,279 --> 06:48:16,039
It's unfortunate that when people say our tax rate is

5366
06:48:16,039 --> 06:48:18,479
too high, they aren't. Proposing what we should cancel or

5367
06:48:18,479 --> 06:48:23,645
what we should reduce. That doesn't solve the tax rate

5368
06:48:23,645 --> 06:48:26,165
to vote against the financial plan year after year and

5369
06:48:26,165 --> 06:48:32,540
still attend groundbreaking. Groundbreakings. These projects don't happen by accident.

5370
06:48:34,129 --> 06:48:39,249
They're responsible investments and deliberate choices and disciplined budgeting that

5371
06:48:39,249 --> 06:48:41,729
the city manager and the team bring forward. So I'm

5372
06:48:41,729 --> 06:48:44,529
really excited and pleased to see what the city that

5373
06:48:44,529 --> 06:48:48,209
we're building. And that's what responsible decisions do, your worship.

5374
06:48:48,209 --> 06:48:50,329
So I'm really. Happy to support the plan today as

5375
06:48:50,329 --> 06:48:52,729
our final plan at this term. Thank you. Thank you,

5376
06:48:52,729 --> 06:48:56,138
councilor. Councilor Weber. Please. Well, I didn't write out a

5377
06:48:56,138 --> 06:48:59,298
fancy speech, but thinking about the budget, I'm. Thinking about

5378
06:48:59,298 --> 06:49:01,338
when I moved to Kelowna here over 30 years ago,

5379
06:49:01,338 --> 06:49:04,098
35 years ago now. And you think of the state

5380
06:49:04,098 --> 06:49:06,778
of the city today and things that are under our

5381
06:49:06,778 --> 06:49:10,258
responsibility for instance, traffic. Traffic is getting heavy. Majority of

5382
06:49:10,258 --> 06:49:12,738
colonial residents, I'm absolutely sure, want us to. Expand and

5383
06:49:12,738 --> 06:49:14,738
improve the road network. I don't think they'd like it

5384
06:49:14,738 --> 06:49:17,331
if we. Voted no. Against that. I have my friends

5385
06:49:17,331 --> 06:49:19,331
who have kids who have been had a long waiting

5386
06:49:19,331 --> 06:49:22,171
list for swimming lessons. They're extremely pleased. There's a Parkinson

5387
06:49:22,171 --> 06:49:24,531
rec center going in. I don't. Think the majority clonor

5388
06:49:24,531 --> 06:49:26,891
residents would be happy if we voted against it. I

5389
06:49:26,891 --> 06:49:29,091
think if we all join that, let's vote no against

5390
06:49:29,091 --> 06:49:32,538
it, I think. We'd have a lot of disgruntled people

5391
06:49:32,538 --> 06:49:35,018
on our hands in Kelowna. I think what we're doing,

5392
06:49:35,018 --> 06:49:37,418
what colonial residents want us to do, we're doing it

5393
06:49:37,418 --> 06:49:39,138
at a cost that we said we would do at

5394
06:49:39,138 --> 06:49:41,898
the tax increase. We said we would do. So I'm

5395
06:49:41,898 --> 06:49:44,662
proud to vote in favor of this budget. And I

5396
06:49:44,662 --> 06:49:48,943
think it's unwise to start keep voting against it. Counsel.

5397
06:49:48,943 --> 06:49:52,948
Thank you. I think I want to start off by

5398
06:49:52,948 --> 06:49:57,667
just obviously thanking our city manager. Thanking Mr. Sassa's team.

5399
06:49:59,309 --> 06:50:05,229
Thanking senior leadership and thanking the 1200 or so employees

5400
06:50:05,229 --> 06:50:09,725
that help us deliver upon our priorities. Mr. Sass started

5401
06:50:09,725 --> 06:50:13,925
out today, and he spoke about our tax rate as

5402
06:50:13,925 --> 06:50:17,365
it compares to other communities within the province on a

5403
06:50:17,365 --> 06:50:22,342
single year basis. And showed us exactly where it was

5404
06:50:22,342 --> 06:50:26,542
sitting. He showed us our tax rate over a four

5405
06:50:26,542 --> 06:50:32,278
year. Cumulative type of structure. Against 16 other communities in

5406
06:50:32,278 --> 06:50:36,488
the province. And that we were the lowest. He showed

5407
06:50:36,488 --> 06:50:40,490
us with regards to. Where our employee numbers were from

5408
06:50:40,490 --> 06:50:45,924
an operational standpoint. One time had an operational expense of

5409
06:50:45,924 --> 06:50:50,668
27 28% and. We're now staff and them have get

5410
06:50:50,668 --> 06:50:54,348
it down to 24%. This is the first time this

5411
06:50:54,348 --> 06:50:57,628
city has seen a budget that is over a billion

5412
06:50:57,628 --> 06:51:04,215
dollars. The delivery of capital that. We are advancing within

5413
06:51:04,215 --> 06:51:08,215
this community because this council has asked to look at

5414
06:51:08,215 --> 06:51:12,223
doing that. And council. You're correct. I mean, we celebrate

5415
06:51:12,223 --> 06:51:16,703
groundbreakings and we celebrate events, and we. Cut ribbons. And

5416
06:51:16,703 --> 06:51:18,703
the reason why we look at doing that is because.

5417
06:51:19,801 --> 06:51:26,742
We advance. These. Tax rates. We advance budget day because

5418
06:51:26,742 --> 06:51:29,262
there's a plan to look at making this community a

5419
06:51:29,262 --> 06:51:34,846
better city, so. I am very grateful for the process

5420
06:51:34,846 --> 06:51:38,966
that we go through now when we look at our

5421
06:51:38,966 --> 06:51:43,084
budget. It is not a one day event. It comes

5422
06:51:43,084 --> 06:51:47,023
to us four times a year. I look at some

5423
06:51:47,023 --> 06:51:51,773
of the questions that came up today. And none of

5424
06:51:51,773 --> 06:51:55,958
them were truly financial questions. More of them were theater.

5425
06:51:57,810 --> 06:52:01,890
And it's regrettable because what we're dealing with is the

5426
06:52:01,890 --> 06:52:04,930
financial issues and concerns that it ends up being that

5427
06:52:04,930 --> 06:52:10,218
we have within this community. So I am grateful for

5428
06:52:10,218 --> 06:52:13,098
the team on what they've looked at doing. We need

5429
06:52:13,098 --> 06:52:17,833
to continue to advance this. I am grateful that. It's

5430
06:52:17,833 --> 06:52:20,593
consistently within the range that they're looking at advancing on

5431
06:52:20,593 --> 06:52:24,992
a tax rate. Basis. And all of the checks and

5432
06:52:24,992 --> 06:52:28,552
balances that we have and that our finance team does

5433
06:52:28,552 --> 06:52:31,792
on a year by year basis makes a difference when

5434
06:52:31,792 --> 06:52:34,712
we get to this day. So I am very grateful.

5435
06:52:34,712 --> 06:52:37,352
And thank you and counsel, thank you for establishing those

5436
06:52:37,352 --> 06:52:41,272
priorities so we could advance those initiatives. Within this community,

5437
06:52:41,272 --> 06:52:44,930
and that's the true. Reality of it more so than

5438
06:52:44,930 --> 06:52:49,501
just an aspect of talk. With all that in question?

5439
06:52:49,501 --> 06:52:54,323
I asked the question. All in favor? Opposed. Councilor cannon

5440
06:52:54,323 --> 06:52:59,282
opposed? Again to everyone. Thank you very much. We are

5441
06:52:59,282 --> 06:52:59,682
adjourned.