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Good evening. The August 4th, 2026 informal public hearing for a development

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variance permit is now convened at 6:00 PM.

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I would like to remind everyone present that this meeting is being aired live on

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Zoom as well as being recorded. The purpose of this hearing is to

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consider a development variance permit for 1501 to

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1523 Elder Drive. The order of business will be as

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follows: staff report, followed by the presentation by the applicant if

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there is one, opportunity for public feedback.

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During this time, any person who believes that their interest is affected by the

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application will be asked to raise their hand and will be called on in order

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and provided two minutes to make your views known.

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For those on Zoom, click the Q&A button, where you can enter your full name with

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your comments, and staff will read it for you.

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Please restrict your remarks to the matters pertinent to the application.

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If you have additional information that you wish to share with council that you are

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unable to provide during that timeframe, you shall be given a further opportunity

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to address council after all other interested members of the public have been heard

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a first time. No one will be, nor should they feel discouraged or

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prevented from making their views known.

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Your only opportunity to comment on the application will be during this hearing,

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as members of council are not permitted to receive further submissions after the

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close of the hearing. And then we'll have applicant response if there is

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any.

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After this hearing has concluded, the development variance permit will be

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considered at the regular council meeting immediately following this hearing. Mr.

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Soreflet, the floor is yours.

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Thank you, Acting Mayor Cardozo.

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This is Development Variance Permit 2026-001.

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This is two variances to several properties.

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So it's 1501 to 1532 Elder Drive. The area is

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zoned R3 high density, and it's also multi-family in our official community

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plan.

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Lots 10 to 15 are requesting a reduced floor area

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variance, and lots 14 and 15 have a reduced lot area

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variance request. I'll go into those in detail next.

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So the application is to support the construction of fourplexes on the subject

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lots with either one or two-bedroom units.

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The applicant's rationale for the variances and the unit size

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change is that it allows for more affordable housing options within the community.

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Council did authorize staff to issue notices

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for this informal hearing on July 21st.

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So there are two variances. The first variance, which applies to all six lots,

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are to reduce the minimum floor area for a townhouse from

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78.97 square meters to 60.4 square meters

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for all subject lots. The second variance, which applies only to

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lots 14 and 15, is to reduce the minimum lot area for a townhouse from

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180 square meters to 175 square meters.

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In terms of legal requirements, notices were delivered on July 24th and mailed to

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owners and tenants within 60 meters of the parcel, and development signs

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were posted on the property.

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In terms of public feedback, no feedback has been received.

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In terms of impacts, building smaller units may increase the

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supply and diversity of housing in the community.

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There aren't currently many one-bedroom units outside of apartments.

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Similarly, two-bedroom units are harder to find as well.

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There are no changes to building height, setbacks, site coverage, parking, or

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permitted uses.

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The minimum unit sizes, which some may see as

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an increase in density, are less frequently used in modern zoning

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bylaws. Ours have existed in our bylaw since, I believe,

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1981. They were typically to ensure that multifamily had

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larger unit sizes to increase property values in an area.

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Also interesting to note with the Timbers I and II project, a variance was

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required for the unit sizes there, as the minimum unit size for the District

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of Sparwood exceeds the maximum unit size BC Housing will fund for

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their units.

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So,

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also, staff are looking at removing this requirement with the new zoning bylaw

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project and have had community feedback to that effect.

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In terms of population changes, it's important to note that once Sparwood hits

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5,000 population, a 280 square meter lot will be allowed

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to have four dwelling units on it,

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which would be 70 square meters per dwelling unit rather than the

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165.

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As a result of more intensive development

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will be permitted through provincial law than is currently allowed in our zoning

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bylaw.

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In terms of internal referral,

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there may need to be an analysis of water and sewer services during the building

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permit review for these units, and a form and

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character development permit is required in all of these multifamily areas per our

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official community plan. But there are no impacts on the variance.

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In terms of next steps, council will be considering this at the regular meeting

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this evening. That concludes my presentation.

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Thank you. Does the applicant wish to make a presentation to council?

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No? Thank you. That completes the presentation portion of the application.

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I will now open the floor to those present and online who would like to share their

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views with council. When called upon, please state your name and address for the

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record prior to sharing your comments.

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Is there anyone present who would like to speak to the application?

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Is there anybody online, Megan?

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There's one person online, but I don't see any hands raised or

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questions asked.

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Okay.

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Going once.

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Twice.

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A third and final time. Still nothing?

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Mr. Soreflet, are there any further comments from the applicant?

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No, Acting Mayor Cardozo.

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Thank you. I declare this hearing closed at 6:05 PM.

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Good evening, and welcome to the August 4th, 2026 regular meeting of council for

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the District of Sparwood. I would like to call this meeting to order at 6:05 PM.

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I would like to remind everyone present that this meeting is being aired live on

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Facebook and Zoom, as well as being recorded, and will be broadcasted on the local

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cable channel. If you would like to ask a question related to an agenda topic, you

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will have an opportunity during question period.

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Those online will have to join the meeting through Zoom to ask a question of

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council.

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Is there anything council wishes to add or change to this evening's agenda before

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we consider adoption?

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Seeing none, can I have a motion to approve the agenda as presented? Moved.

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Seconded. Discussion? All those in favor? Opposed?

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Motion is carried. The next order of business is the adoption of

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the minutes from the previous meeting.

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Are there any errors or omissions to the minutes to note before we consider

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adoption?

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Seeing none, could I have a motion that the minutes of the regular meeting of

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council held July 21st, 2026, be adopted as presented? Moved.

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Seconded. Discussion? All those in favor? Opposed?

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Motion is carried.

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Our first bylaw report is from the director of operations regarding the traffic

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regulation bylaw. Mr. Kaisner, the floor is yours.

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Thank you. This report is before council to consider a minor amendment

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to traffic regulations bylaw number 1346,

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2026, before adoption.

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I need to interrupt, Mr. Kaisner. I need to step out of the room.

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I've got a conflict of interest with this one.

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So the bylaw was developed to replace the district's 1987

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traffic, parking, and highways regulation bylaw and includes a

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number of broader improvements, including modernized definitions,

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administrative provisions, updating parking and accessibility

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regulations, improved enforcement tools, and a clearer traffic

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management framework.

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Following the third reading, staff identified that the definition of no truck route

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may be interpreted more restrictively than council intended.

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To address this, the recommended process is to

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rescind third reading, amend the

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definition, and then provide the third reading to the bylaw as

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amended. Adoption would occur at a future

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meeting. The amendment does not change the overall

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intent of the bylaw or council's previous direction regarding Michelle Creek

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Road. Throughout council's review, the intent was to restrict heavy

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industrial through traffic from using residential roads where an alternative

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highway route exists, while continuing to permit local

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access.

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That intent was reflected elsewhere in the bylaw through

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existing exemptions, including

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Section 3.1K. However, staff identified that the

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definition of no truck route did not clearly capture the

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intent and could create an uncertainty regarding other

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legitimate local destinations located within the

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no truck route.

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The proposed amendment would define a no truck route as a highway

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or portion of a highway designated in Schedule D, where trucks are

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prohibited except where accessing a property

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directly served by the no truck route or as otherwise authorized by

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this bylaw.

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So trucks would continue to be permitted where their destination is

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located on the no truck route, but the route could not be used as a shortcut or

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through route to access destinations that could reasonably be

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reached from the designated highway network.

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So council's options. Option A is rescind the

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third reading, amend the definition, and provide third

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reading to the bylaw as amended. This option clarifies council's

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intent and maintains local access while directing through traffic to the highway

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network. Option B, proceed with adoption without

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amendment. This may leave uncertainty regarding permitted local access

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on the no truck routes.

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And option C, do not adopt this bylaw and retain the existing

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1987 bylaw.

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So staff are recommending option A as the amendment provides a clear

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interpretation of council's intent.

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Local access remain permitted, consistent with the exemptions

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already contemplated elsewhere in the bylaw, while routine heavy industrial

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through traffic is directed away from residential areas and onto the

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designated highway route.

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Thank you, Mr. Kaisner. Any

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questions of council regarding the report? Councillor Atwal.

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Yeah. Thank you, Acting Mayor Cardoso. Through you to Mr.

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Kaisner.

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I think it was brought up last time we talked about this as well a little bit.

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I'd just like some clarification on what we have for

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expectations through the district for enforcement.

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If we are having trucks coming through with the amended

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version, and it does clarify our intent that we would like

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to have the reduction and obviously try to minimize the effect

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on existing businesses. If we have trucks that aren't

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utilizing and doing deliveries for those local businesses and are

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using a through traffic route, it's

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what the intent is to reduce.

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How are we looking at for enforcement on that?

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If there is something specific that we can

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look at, is there something you can clarify on that potentially?

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Through the chair.

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Typical traffic bylaw like this is going to follow

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up through complaints and

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regular enforcement opportunities,

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as happens right now on Michelle Creek Road with

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vehicles

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coming through, they're reported to bylaw enforcement officer.

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The improved bylaw gives the...

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It provides a better way for a bylaw officer to deal with

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because they're not pulling over like an RCMP officer.

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So they can take a license plate and a visual,

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and follow up in that regard with the three axle rule.

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Okay. Yeah. Thank you for clarifying.

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I'm happy with that

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Councillor Christensen

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Thank you, Acting Mayor Cardozo.

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Daryl, so Manitoulin going east to Alberta,

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can they

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turn down that route then under this new amendment?

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Through the chair. No, that's not the intent of the no truck route.

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The no truck route would be to limit that traffic from cutting

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through and reverting to the highway network,

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so take a left instead of a right.

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Any other questions of council?

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Thank you.

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Council Barr?

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Thank you.

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Through yourself to Daryl as well, just looking for clarification then.

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So,

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Manitoulin heading east through to Alberta would not be permitted, but

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Manitoulin heading east to the Elkview gate,

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whether it be the current gate or the plant gate, would

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be accessible?

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So any three-axle vehicle would not be

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permitted to go through on a regular basis.

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If it was an unusual load that

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may pose a problem on the regular highway network, they can

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apply for a free permit through our public works office.

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This is what we do now for the large truck box deliveries that

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go through to

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Elkview gates, for example.

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That would be allowed in the same method that they are now.

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But otherwise, any traffic with a three-axle vehicle would

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be heading towards Highway 43 and routing to

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Highway 3 that way.

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Okay, thank you.

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Go ahead. Councillor Nand.

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Thank you, Acting Mayor Cardozo. I

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have a quick comment, Daryl, before I ask a question.

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Did you guys think about traffic on Highway

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43 and trying to go onto Highway 3?

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It is going to be stupid.

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These trucks are big. If there's two or three small cars

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behind them, they'll be there for two hours before they get on the

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highway.

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I'm kind of exaggerating, but you get my point.

250
00:14:39,488 --> 00:14:41,598
So how is this going to improve things

251
00:14:41,708 --> 00:14:45,628
on Shell Creek Road and Highway 3

252
00:14:45,668 --> 00:14:46,708
and Highway 43?

253
00:14:49,708 --> 00:14:53,298
Through the chair, that is what's on table today

254
00:14:53,348 --> 00:14:55,438
for council to deliberate and decide on.

255
00:14:58,728 --> 00:14:59,468
Councillor Christensen.

256
00:15:00,708 --> 00:15:03,168
Thank you. Yeah, I'm even more confused.

257
00:15:03,228 --> 00:15:06,818
And Daryl, so as Councillor Barr explained,

258
00:15:07,748 --> 00:15:11,708
a load coming out from Manitoulin to even

259
00:15:11,748 --> 00:15:15,608
Graco, pick up Graco and deliver it outside of a truck box,

260
00:15:16,788 --> 00:15:20,108
normal course of business, or even go up to the mine site,

261
00:15:20,708 --> 00:15:23,908
grab something from Elkview or Portage River Green Hills,

262
00:15:24,288 --> 00:15:26,868
deliver a wheel motor up to Elkview,

263
00:15:28,128 --> 00:15:29,108
is not allowed down

264
00:15:30,328 --> 00:15:33,788
to store it overnight in their yard and not allowed to go in the

265
00:15:33,848 --> 00:15:36,888
morning to deliver that at Elkview.

266
00:15:37,848 --> 00:15:41,257
Seems to me that that's a normal course of business that fits that

267
00:15:41,308 --> 00:15:44,368
definition, which seems confusing

268
00:15:44,408 --> 00:15:45,648
now.

269
00:15:49,628 --> 00:15:50,808
Do you have a specific question?

270
00:15:54,228 --> 00:15:57,808
Not allowed? In that case, they go get a wheel motor, they store it overnight at

271
00:15:57,848 --> 00:15:58,328
their shop.

272
00:15:59,288 --> 00:16:00,068
They've got to turn

273
00:16:01,228 --> 00:16:04,048
west to deliver that to Elkview in the morning?

274
00:16:07,588 --> 00:16:08,708
Through the chair. So,

275
00:16:11,688 --> 00:16:15,568
basically a no truck route means that there's no trucks with three axles

276
00:16:15,608 --> 00:16:19,348
going through it. That's it. So if

277
00:16:19,468 --> 00:16:23,408
they have a three-axle truck that needs to get to Alberta, they have

278
00:16:23,428 --> 00:16:27,308
to turn from Highway 43 onto 3 and access Alberta

279
00:16:27,348 --> 00:16:31,168
that way with this draft by-law. This is for council to

280
00:16:31,208 --> 00:16:34,928
decide upon. This is not a staff decision.

281
00:16:35,007 --> 00:16:37,678
This is brought forward based on the complaints from

282
00:16:39,868 --> 00:16:42,168
residents to council. Council brought it forward.

283
00:16:44,128 --> 00:16:47,228
If they have an unusually large load that

284
00:16:48,088 --> 00:16:49,748
cannot go onto Highway 43,

285
00:16:51,908 --> 00:16:55,208
ultimately that would be a permit-driven

286
00:16:56,248 --> 00:16:59,688
response, and they would apply for a permit to do so.

287
00:17:00,868 --> 00:17:04,689
If that's something that council doesn't wish to do, you simply do

288
00:17:04,729 --> 00:17:08,388
not allow a no truck route. You just take this out of the by-law.

289
00:17:08,808 --> 00:17:09,028
That's it.

290
00:17:10,548 --> 00:17:11,408
Thank you, Mr. Kaisner.

291
00:17:12,729 --> 00:17:15,368
So, council, we have three motions before us this evening.

292
00:17:15,408 --> 00:17:19,308
The first motion is that council rescind third reading of the traffic regulations

293
00:17:19,328 --> 00:17:22,729
by-law 1346 2026. Can I have a mover?

294
00:17:24,768 --> 00:17:25,048
Moved.

295
00:17:25,888 --> 00:17:27,449
Seconded. Discussion.

296
00:17:28,648 --> 00:17:29,688
Councillor Christensen.

297
00:17:29,768 --> 00:17:32,488
Yeah, I vote that we rescind this.

298
00:17:33,708 --> 00:17:37,168
We make a revision. We also consider the three

299
00:17:38,368 --> 00:17:40,808
areas here that I'm quite concerned about.

300
00:17:41,508 --> 00:17:44,328
And the first area is, like Councillor Nand just said,

301
00:17:46,248 --> 00:17:49,248
the comment made in our public meeting last time that

302
00:17:50,268 --> 00:17:54,228
it's about safety, and heaven forbid we hurt

303
00:17:54,328 --> 00:17:57,988
somebody because we don't act. But now we're

304
00:17:58,848 --> 00:18:02,628
putting more traffic onto 3 and 43, and we've got

305
00:18:02,708 --> 00:18:06,448
Spartel there, and they have children, they have

306
00:18:06,508 --> 00:18:09,508
disabled people, elderly, crossing that road.

307
00:18:09,928 --> 00:18:12,048
I tried to get onto that intersection today.

308
00:18:13,048 --> 00:18:17,008
As Councillor Nand said, it's like a speedway, and we're just going to

309
00:18:17,028 --> 00:18:17,568
add more

310
00:18:18,468 --> 00:18:20,128
... trucks onto that, and

311
00:18:21,428 --> 00:18:25,368
they've got a job to do and a time limit to keep that they're safe.

312
00:18:25,768 --> 00:18:26,788
But at the same time,

313
00:18:28,728 --> 00:18:31,978
I don't think we thought that out. The second reason is

314
00:18:33,268 --> 00:18:35,848
incremental cost, and we just added to all the businesses.

315
00:18:35,928 --> 00:18:39,628
I know the comparison was 30 seconds, you figured out,

316
00:18:39,768 --> 00:18:39,928
but

317
00:18:40,808 --> 00:18:41,487
that's a car.

318
00:18:42,328 --> 00:18:45,148
If they were driving cars all day doing hot shots, maybe.

319
00:18:45,448 --> 00:18:46,568
But they're hauling

320
00:18:47,668 --> 00:18:51,248
40,000, 50,000 pounds in a semi with air brakes.

321
00:18:51,748 --> 00:18:55,627
I would beg to think that that's a little bit higher incremental cost

322
00:18:55,668 --> 00:18:55,828
than

323
00:18:56,928 --> 00:18:58,508
comparing to a car. So,

324
00:19:00,528 --> 00:19:02,908
plus multiple loads per day. So

325
00:19:04,168 --> 00:19:08,008
we don't know the cost impact that we're about to put onto a business

326
00:19:08,048 --> 00:19:11,988
like Manitoulin or Dynamics or whoever, or Elfview

327
00:19:12,648 --> 00:19:15,198
or Tech, whoever uses that road. That's

328
00:19:15,408 --> 00:19:19,268
Tech land or

329
00:19:19,348 --> 00:19:22,188
EBR land, too, for heaven's sakes.

330
00:19:22,308 --> 00:19:25,508
We're about to affect the landowners of that

331
00:19:26,528 --> 00:19:26,908
area.

332
00:19:28,248 --> 00:19:31,828
Third reason is permitting.

333
00:19:32,768 --> 00:19:34,448
We heard a little bit about permitting.

334
00:19:35,408 --> 00:19:38,748
Ed from Manitoulin started putting says he can't comply with that law.

335
00:19:39,308 --> 00:19:43,028
He says his permits, which take up to two

336
00:19:43,068 --> 00:19:44,068
years to change,

337
00:19:45,368 --> 00:19:48,428
I assume, we haven't heard any more information.

338
00:19:48,568 --> 00:19:52,408
I'd like to hear, but I assume that's with the Ministry of Highways

339
00:19:52,468 --> 00:19:53,048
in BC.

340
00:19:55,208 --> 00:19:59,168
Modi, and my guess is that his permits would trump

341
00:19:59,208 --> 00:20:00,388
ours and

342
00:20:01,548 --> 00:20:05,078
our bylaw. And so again, an added layer of

343
00:20:05,108 --> 00:20:06,108
confusion. So

344
00:20:06,948 --> 00:20:10,548
I really think the no truck route really has to be

345
00:20:10,628 --> 00:20:12,128
delved into a little bit better

346
00:20:12,968 --> 00:20:14,908
and get some consulting done.

347
00:20:16,328 --> 00:20:19,428
I, for one, can't vote for that, just for

348
00:20:20,368 --> 00:20:24,268
fear that the ramifications that could come back to us personally if

349
00:20:24,288 --> 00:20:26,068
one of these businesses decide to

350
00:20:27,328 --> 00:20:30,888
challenge us. And because of these extra costs, I know

351
00:20:31,628 --> 00:20:34,128
we've gone through the procedure, but

352
00:20:35,368 --> 00:20:36,928
making the decision based on

353
00:20:38,148 --> 00:20:40,068
not enough information is never good.

354
00:20:40,128 --> 00:20:40,428
So

355
00:20:41,348 --> 00:20:44,848
I vote we just rescind it and bring it back to

356
00:20:45,268 --> 00:20:48,688
a bigger study. At least that no truck route.

357
00:20:48,748 --> 00:20:50,048
The rest of it, I'm fine.

358
00:20:51,928 --> 00:20:55,488
Yeah, and like you said, that is the only issue is that we've already had our

359
00:20:55,508 --> 00:20:59,468
informal public hearing, so we can't hear any other information from

360
00:20:59,508 --> 00:21:01,008
the residents, from the businesses.

361
00:21:01,408 --> 00:21:04,788
They had their opportunity to voice it then, and some of them did.

362
00:21:04,848 --> 00:21:08,148
We did hear from them, but that's where we're at procedurally,

363
00:21:08,228 --> 00:21:08,848
unfortunately.

364
00:21:10,368 --> 00:21:11,828
Any other discussion? Councillor Atwal?

365
00:21:13,108 --> 00:21:13,548
Yeah, I think

366
00:21:15,028 --> 00:21:16,248
no discussion for

367
00:21:17,528 --> 00:21:21,488
rescinding on the first part of the motion, but I'll have a discussion

368
00:21:21,568 --> 00:21:25,208
point for part two for the actual amendment of the traffic bylaw.

369
00:21:25,388 --> 00:21:29,148
So, I think I'm ready to vote on the rescinding part, and then we'll come

370
00:21:29,208 --> 00:21:29,608
back to

371
00:21:30,948 --> 00:21:33,268
the second part of the amended motion.

372
00:21:34,808 --> 00:21:35,548
Any other discussion?

373
00:21:37,568 --> 00:21:38,188
All those in favor?

374
00:21:40,348 --> 00:21:41,848
Opposed? Motion is carried.

375
00:21:43,028 --> 00:21:46,728
The second motion before us is that council amend the traffic regulations bylaw

376
00:21:46,748 --> 00:21:50,708
1346, 2026 as follows: definition

377
00:21:50,748 --> 00:21:54,448
of no truck route means a highway or portion of highway designated in

378
00:21:54,468 --> 00:21:58,188
Schedule D, where trucks are prohibited except for the

379
00:21:58,228 --> 00:22:02,148
purpose of accessing a property directly served by the no truck route,

380
00:22:02,288 --> 00:22:05,148
or as otherwise authorized by this bylaw. Can I have a mover?

381
00:22:06,988 --> 00:22:07,348
Moved.

382
00:22:09,848 --> 00:22:10,208
Seconder?

383
00:22:11,248 --> 00:22:11,298
I'll second.

384
00:22:11,298 --> 00:22:12,808
Second it. Discussion?

385
00:22:14,008 --> 00:22:14,528
Councillor Barr.

386
00:22:14,728 --> 00:22:15,008
Thank you.

387
00:22:15,928 --> 00:22:19,348
I'm really not in favor of having the no truck route wording put in there.

388
00:22:20,168 --> 00:22:24,028
The way it stands, I would be more inclined to having a local

389
00:22:24,068 --> 00:22:24,788
traffic only

390
00:22:25,668 --> 00:22:28,168
wording may be applied, which would allow Manitoulin,

391
00:22:29,048 --> 00:22:32,878
as they have property along that route, to still be able to use that

392
00:22:32,948 --> 00:22:36,738
route. But it would eliminate, in my mind, it would eliminate other

393
00:22:36,768 --> 00:22:40,668
companies from using the Michelle Creek Road as a bypass, let's

394
00:22:40,728 --> 00:22:40,908
say,

395
00:22:42,128 --> 00:22:44,268
for them to be able to haul stuff back and forth on.

396
00:22:44,368 --> 00:22:46,808
So I don't know if that's something that we could consider, but that would be

397
00:22:46,848 --> 00:22:50,268
something that I would look at being in favor of.

398
00:22:51,308 --> 00:22:52,488
Thank you. Councillor Atwal.

399
00:22:53,728 --> 00:22:55,568
Yeah. Thank you, Acting Mayor Cardozo.

400
00:22:55,968 --> 00:22:57,448
It's one of those things where

401
00:22:58,488 --> 00:23:00,268
we've heard from the businesses

402
00:23:01,668 --> 00:23:03,768
how it could potentially affect their business.

403
00:23:06,088 --> 00:23:07,288
My takeaway is

404
00:23:08,808 --> 00:23:09,808
they've also had

405
00:23:10,788 --> 00:23:13,048
five, six, seven weeks

406
00:23:14,148 --> 00:23:18,108
to engage with the people who have been frustrated about these

407
00:23:19,168 --> 00:23:20,648
traffic concerns for years.

408
00:23:22,828 --> 00:23:26,168
And I reached out to a few of the residents who had brought up concerns.

409
00:23:26,628 --> 00:23:28,188
They haven't heard anything from any of the businesses.

410
00:23:29,708 --> 00:23:31,768
They haven't addressed any of the concerns.

411
00:23:31,848 --> 00:23:35,748
And I understand that Manitoulin and Reico and them are

412
00:23:35,808 --> 00:23:38,588
not the problem children of this.

413
00:23:39,728 --> 00:23:43,448
But at the same time, if those residents are raising a concern, we've gone down the

414
00:23:43,488 --> 00:23:44,128
route of

415
00:23:45,228 --> 00:23:48,288
asking CVSE to come out and do enforcement.

416
00:23:48,588 --> 00:23:50,708
We've asked the RCMP to come out and do enforcement.

417
00:23:51,688 --> 00:23:54,468
It hasn't led to any changes, nothing that we're seeing there.

418
00:23:55,948 --> 00:23:59,448
I feel like this puts another tool within the

419
00:23:59,548 --> 00:24:03,428
district's ability to actually curb some of this

420
00:24:03,868 --> 00:24:06,008
traffic that is not local specific.

421
00:24:06,048 --> 00:24:10,047
I understand Councillor Barr's want for having a local traffic

422
00:24:10,148 --> 00:24:13,928
only. I don't think that that has the implication we want it to have

423
00:24:14,008 --> 00:24:17,328
of reducing the traffic from

424
00:24:18,648 --> 00:24:22,008
those transport trucks that are going through there making deliveries out

425
00:24:22,048 --> 00:24:22,648
to

426
00:24:23,540 --> 00:24:27,100
Elford to forwarding Green Hills and Line Creek and

427
00:24:27,260 --> 00:24:27,540
such

428
00:24:28,440 --> 00:24:32,280
is not a punishment piece for the local businesses at all, but it

429
00:24:32,340 --> 00:24:36,240
is taking into consideration the concerns that residents have brought up,

430
00:24:36,320 --> 00:24:40,160
that we have tried to go down these avenues already that we're trying to talk about

431
00:24:40,200 --> 00:24:42,400
now that haven't worked.

432
00:24:43,900 --> 00:24:47,570
I look at it and there is the conversation

433
00:24:47,640 --> 00:24:51,240
of the trucks having to use Highway 43 instead of Michelle Creek Road.

434
00:24:51,700 --> 00:24:54,400
Highway 43 is paid for by the province to repair.

435
00:24:54,720 --> 00:24:58,380
Michelle Creek Road is paid by local residents through our taxes.

436
00:24:58,460 --> 00:25:02,320
If we have to do any repair on Michelle Creek Road, that's a cost

437
00:25:02,440 --> 00:25:06,200
borne by the local taxpayers. End of the day,

438
00:25:06,500 --> 00:25:09,060
that road is made for heavier traffic, it's made to haul.

439
00:25:09,400 --> 00:25:13,200
I understand the concerns. I am very much in favor of at least

440
00:25:13,240 --> 00:25:16,520
putting this forward, seeing what the implications look like, and making

441
00:25:16,560 --> 00:25:19,300
adjustments in the upcoming year of what that is.

442
00:25:21,420 --> 00:25:25,380
I don't feel like paying for a study out of taxpayer dollars again

443
00:25:25,460 --> 00:25:28,300
is going to make any difference. I don't understand the point of that.

444
00:25:28,340 --> 00:25:31,900
Why are we spending money to come back to a similar result again

445
00:25:32,520 --> 00:25:34,220
when residents have brought this concern forward?

446
00:25:34,240 --> 00:25:38,180
And I commend those residents for coming forward and saying, "We've

447
00:25:38,240 --> 00:25:42,020
tried things." They've also gone down avenues and gotten no result.

448
00:25:42,600 --> 00:25:46,260
I'm not a fan of lamed up policies and putting things

449
00:25:46,320 --> 00:25:49,680
forward for the fact of just putting things forward and setting it off, kicking the

450
00:25:49,720 --> 00:25:53,080
can down the road. We tried that. We're a year and a half into this.

451
00:25:53,320 --> 00:25:56,680
I really feel like we've gone through avenues, we've gone through things.

452
00:25:57,840 --> 00:26:01,380
I feel like those businesses, including EVR, have had ample

453
00:26:01,440 --> 00:26:05,320
opportunity to go and engage with these residents who have these complaints, who

454
00:26:05,340 --> 00:26:08,270
brought them to council, and everything in between.

455
00:26:08,340 --> 00:26:11,820
I'm here to make sure that those residents are heard and taken care of,

456
00:26:12,360 --> 00:26:15,040
and that's the rest. It's as simple as that.

457
00:26:15,500 --> 00:26:17,320
They have had ample opportunity to engage.

458
00:26:17,820 --> 00:26:21,720
I feel like I have also reached out to these folks as best

459
00:26:21,780 --> 00:26:22,800
I can from a distance.

460
00:26:24,360 --> 00:26:28,280
The onus lies on us to do better for those people, and I am

461
00:26:28,340 --> 00:26:32,100
not a fan of kicking this down the road and hoping somebody picks it up down the

462
00:26:32,140 --> 00:26:35,000
road. Not my style of way of going forward.

463
00:26:35,960 --> 00:26:39,860
And so I'm in support of this. I feel like it is something that should've been

464
00:26:39,920 --> 00:26:43,800
put forward before. And I'm happy to support this, at least to

465
00:26:43,860 --> 00:26:47,800
see what the implications come out of it for those businesses.

466
00:26:47,840 --> 00:26:49,560
Adjust where we need to adjust down the road.

467
00:26:49,680 --> 00:26:53,600
But the fact of doing nothing and hoping that things change, but they

468
00:26:53,640 --> 00:26:57,120
haven't in the past three years, I'm not a fan of that.

469
00:26:58,820 --> 00:27:02,260
Support the people. If the business are that concerned, there are opportunities for

470
00:27:02,300 --> 00:27:04,280
them to come out post,

471
00:27:05,100 --> 00:27:07,150
and make adjustments and amendments to this bylaw.

472
00:27:07,200 --> 00:27:10,940
But I am fully in favor of pushing this forward and proceeding,

473
00:27:11,620 --> 00:27:15,600
and seeing how it goes, because I think that's the most important thing to push

474
00:27:15,640 --> 00:27:19,400
forward, that we've tried things, hasn't changed, do something, or

475
00:27:20,040 --> 00:27:20,520
what's the point?

476
00:27:23,140 --> 00:27:24,000
Councilor Christensen.

477
00:27:24,740 --> 00:27:28,580
Yeah. Thank you, Acting Mayor. I could go on

478
00:27:28,780 --> 00:27:32,420
all day to argue some of those points that I disagree with about

479
00:27:32,640 --> 00:27:35,240
90% of what was just said.

480
00:27:36,320 --> 00:27:39,720
I support what Councilor Bard just stated.

481
00:27:39,820 --> 00:27:40,160
It's

482
00:27:41,180 --> 00:27:44,400
look at a local-only option and

483
00:27:45,380 --> 00:27:49,320
maybe even add a dangerous goods option, which EVR said that

484
00:27:49,360 --> 00:27:53,260
they've already made arrangements for and have taken care of.

485
00:27:55,720 --> 00:27:56,060
But

486
00:27:57,120 --> 00:27:57,360
yeah.

487
00:27:59,580 --> 00:28:03,260
Yes, we've heard from the individuals who wrote letters, but

488
00:28:03,300 --> 00:28:06,880
let's be clear, we still haven't seen anything but a letter,

489
00:28:07,640 --> 00:28:07,880
and

490
00:28:08,740 --> 00:28:10,960
that's it. A letter. And

491
00:28:14,120 --> 00:28:17,100
just as valid as EVR's

492
00:28:18,280 --> 00:28:21,430
letter to us stating their reasons for keeping it open and

493
00:28:21,720 --> 00:28:25,540
Manitoulin stating why they'd like to see it kept open.

494
00:28:25,640 --> 00:28:26,920
So I'd be

495
00:28:29,120 --> 00:28:31,980
supportive, just getting rid of the no truck and

496
00:28:32,800 --> 00:28:33,620
readdressing it.

497
00:28:34,980 --> 00:28:38,720
I don't think we're asking for a study for somebody to come in and

498
00:28:38,840 --> 00:28:40,560
consult us on this.

499
00:28:41,700 --> 00:28:43,140
So, thank you.

500
00:28:45,240 --> 00:28:45,960
Councilor Nand.

501
00:28:48,440 --> 00:28:51,910
Thank you, Acting Mayor Cardozo. I wholeheartedly agree with Councilor

502
00:28:51,980 --> 00:28:55,180
Christensen and Councilor Baugh on this issue. Thank you.

503
00:28:59,260 --> 00:29:01,040
I tend to agree with Councilor Atwal.

504
00:29:01,350 --> 00:29:04,840
We've been kicking this down the road for a long time, and nothing has

505
00:29:04,940 --> 00:29:08,570
changed. We've heard the concerns from the residents, and we need to try

506
00:29:08,680 --> 00:29:12,360
something different. As Councilor Atwal mentioned, we can look

507
00:29:12,560 --> 00:29:15,660
at something else down the road. If this doesn't work, if it doesn't have the

508
00:29:15,680 --> 00:29:17,959
intended effect, we can always change it again.

509
00:29:18,460 --> 00:29:21,680
That's the prerogative of council. That's something that we can do.

510
00:29:21,720 --> 00:29:22,750
But to do nothing

511
00:29:23,700 --> 00:29:25,320
and hope that things will change,

512
00:29:26,340 --> 00:29:27,220
that's crazy to me.

513
00:29:28,340 --> 00:29:31,220
Why not give this a try? See if it works.

514
00:29:31,960 --> 00:29:35,680
I would be open to local traffic. I think that would be

515
00:29:35,760 --> 00:29:38,960
okay, but again, we'd have to see is it

516
00:29:38,980 --> 00:29:41,880
working, because that would be trying something different.

517
00:29:42,560 --> 00:29:44,520
So I don't know. Councilor Atwal.

518
00:29:46,380 --> 00:29:50,080
Yeah. It's one of those pieces that I find that

519
00:29:50,240 --> 00:29:50,460
I

520
00:29:51,480 --> 00:29:54,040
can get frustrated about and I don't bring up very often

521
00:29:54,960 --> 00:29:56,140
with what it is. But

522
00:29:59,420 --> 00:30:03,240
Councilor Christensen did ask for a study earlier

523
00:30:03,400 --> 00:30:07,160
in the discussion. He said, "I want to make sure that we have a fulsome

524
00:30:07,180 --> 00:30:10,020
discussion, have a study conducted." And now,

525
00:30:10,980 --> 00:30:14,780
I don't like the back-and-forth piece of it either, but I did want to make sure

526
00:30:14,800 --> 00:30:16,780
that we're being clear on what was...

527
00:30:17,740 --> 00:30:19,400
I didn't just bring it up out of nowhere.

528
00:30:19,780 --> 00:30:21,680
I want to make sure that we're clear on this.

529
00:30:23,820 --> 00:30:27,720
But I think that's a big piece. I think that we have a lot of information

530
00:30:27,760 --> 00:30:31,144
that did come from residents. They've supplied Photos.

531
00:30:31,724 --> 00:30:35,664
They've invited us out for walks to come out and take a look at the

532
00:30:35,704 --> 00:30:38,444
situation for the highway. And again,

533
00:30:39,424 --> 00:30:43,144
there have been a lot of concerns they've brought up to the companies and stuff as

534
00:30:43,244 --> 00:30:45,664
well on what they can do. They've gone to the

535
00:30:46,524 --> 00:30:50,244
RCMP themselves, CBSC. I feel like the residents have done

536
00:30:50,684 --> 00:30:54,584
a lot of the brunt work of trying to make a solution come

537
00:30:54,624 --> 00:30:56,304
forward for this, and they've come to council

538
00:30:57,384 --> 00:30:59,564
to assist and help to actually make

539
00:31:00,524 --> 00:31:01,584
a difference in what they're seeing.

540
00:31:03,464 --> 00:31:07,324
And I always remember that the decisions I make, and I try to make

541
00:31:07,344 --> 00:31:09,344
consistently, is for the benefit of the community,

542
00:31:10,304 --> 00:31:13,184
and I think that this is the right path forward, at least for that.

543
00:31:13,584 --> 00:31:16,224
And if there's a change that needs to come down the road, make a change come down

544
00:31:16,244 --> 00:31:19,444
the road. Nothing here is written in stone. We change bylaws all the time.

545
00:31:19,784 --> 00:31:21,484
But I'd like to see something done instead of nothing.

546
00:31:25,284 --> 00:31:28,264
So Megan, if we were to try and add a

547
00:31:28,304 --> 00:31:31,984
local traffic piece to this,

548
00:31:32,404 --> 00:31:33,764
how would we go about that?

549
00:31:40,964 --> 00:31:43,004
That would take some

550
00:31:45,624 --> 00:31:47,424
thoughts on how to word that for the bylaw.

551
00:31:48,304 --> 00:31:52,204
My suggestion is deal with the motion that's on the table right

552
00:31:52,244 --> 00:31:52,384
now,

553
00:31:53,304 --> 00:31:57,264
and then potentially the council could look at amending it to remove the no truck

554
00:31:57,304 --> 00:32:00,944
route on Michelle Creek Road, and then adopt this bylaw

555
00:32:01,064 --> 00:32:04,884
as written, and then bring back an amendment to add a local

556
00:32:04,944 --> 00:32:06,504
route, potentially in the future,

557
00:32:07,424 --> 00:32:10,244
would be one way. But right now, I would deal with the motion on the floor.

558
00:32:12,664 --> 00:32:14,404
How does council wish to proceed?

559
00:32:15,844 --> 00:32:16,744
Any discussion on that?

560
00:32:17,024 --> 00:32:18,204
Can we have the motion reread, please?

561
00:32:19,504 --> 00:32:23,044
Yes. The motion before us is that council amend the traffic

562
00:32:23,104 --> 00:32:27,084
regulations bylaw 1346-2026 as follows:

563
00:32:27,164 --> 00:32:30,664
Definition of no truck route means a highway or portion of highway

564
00:32:30,704 --> 00:32:34,684
designated in Schedule D where trucks are prohibited except for the purpose of

565
00:32:34,764 --> 00:32:38,464
accessing a property directly served by the no truck route or as

566
00:32:38,524 --> 00:32:40,364
otherwise authorized by this bylaw.

567
00:32:41,804 --> 00:32:42,704
Call the question, please.

568
00:32:44,784 --> 00:32:46,204
I'll call the question. All those in favor?

569
00:32:48,104 --> 00:32:50,204
Opposed? Motion is defeated.

570
00:32:53,864 --> 00:32:56,924
That's a nice little different one.

571
00:32:57,344 --> 00:32:57,484
Yep.

572
00:32:57,493 --> 00:32:57,493
Yep.

573
00:32:59,124 --> 00:32:59,354
Council Christensen.

574
00:32:59,354 --> 00:33:03,304
Could we make a motion now to remove the no truck route

575
00:33:03,364 --> 00:33:03,524
and

576
00:33:05,044 --> 00:33:06,164
continue with the...

577
00:33:09,044 --> 00:33:09,684
Okay, so

578
00:33:11,824 --> 00:33:14,784
a new motion before us. Oh, hang on.

579
00:33:27,704 --> 00:33:31,184
Okay, the new motion before us is that council amend the traffic regulations bylaw

580
00:33:31,264 --> 00:33:35,164
1346-2026 as follows: remove the no truck

581
00:33:35,184 --> 00:33:37,864
route provision for Michelle Creek Road. Can I have a mover?

582
00:33:38,964 --> 00:33:39,284
Moved.

583
00:33:40,564 --> 00:33:41,664
Seconded. Discussion.

584
00:33:45,184 --> 00:33:45,864
No discussion?

585
00:33:47,064 --> 00:33:47,764
Councillor Atwal.

586
00:33:50,164 --> 00:33:53,884
I think that this will have at least

587
00:33:54,504 --> 00:33:56,224
broader implications, and I hope it does,

588
00:33:57,144 --> 00:34:01,084
about ineffectual government and how citizens bring

589
00:34:01,124 --> 00:34:03,424
up a concern and it goes nowhere.

590
00:34:05,324 --> 00:34:09,245
I think that there is long-drawn frustration on where this

591
00:34:09,304 --> 00:34:11,245
leads to. We've had this discussion for

592
00:34:12,104 --> 00:34:14,384
months upon months to come forward with this.

593
00:34:16,685 --> 00:34:19,165
Lot of opportunity to have the discussions and conversations,

594
00:34:20,225 --> 00:34:23,864
and then have members from council coming in and saying, "Have

595
00:34:23,924 --> 00:34:27,165
we engaged? Your responsibility is to engage."

596
00:34:27,784 --> 00:34:31,765
We are the elected officials. If you're not engaging, then what's the

597
00:34:31,784 --> 00:34:34,854
point? You're not supposed to sit here and just wait for reports for staff to go do

598
00:34:34,884 --> 00:34:38,784
the work. Show up, go talk to residents, go talk to business owners.

599
00:34:38,844 --> 00:34:40,205
Don't wait for somebody to do it.

600
00:34:41,444 --> 00:34:42,524
I find this quite frustrating,

601
00:34:44,144 --> 00:34:47,163
but that's just me. I feel like my hope is that

602
00:34:48,784 --> 00:34:51,745
residents don't lose perspective

603
00:34:53,004 --> 00:34:56,864
on local government and hoping to make changes that

604
00:34:56,924 --> 00:34:57,584
they are wanting,

605
00:34:58,684 --> 00:35:00,084
and not be directed by

606
00:35:00,944 --> 00:35:02,964
a handful of folks who feel like they can

607
00:35:04,484 --> 00:35:05,844
put things the way they want to and

608
00:35:06,924 --> 00:35:10,804
just take away the wants from local residents who are

609
00:35:11,004 --> 00:35:12,624
bringing up concerns. So I hope that

610
00:35:13,824 --> 00:35:16,044
that does have the implication. I hope it does. So thank you.

611
00:35:17,824 --> 00:35:18,624
Councillor Christensen.

612
00:35:19,504 --> 00:35:21,604
I appreciate the reprimand,

613
00:35:22,604 --> 00:35:26,144
but that's a pretty big assumption to assume that none of us talk to

614
00:35:26,164 --> 00:35:29,884
residents and none of us talk to the businesses and

615
00:35:30,844 --> 00:35:34,664
heard from them. So I take a little bit of issue with

616
00:35:34,704 --> 00:35:38,384
that. But you're free to reprimand if you want,

617
00:35:38,444 --> 00:35:39,004
Sam, but

618
00:35:40,684 --> 00:35:44,424
you're speaking from a lack of information, so you shouldn't do

619
00:35:44,484 --> 00:35:45,604
that. And

620
00:35:47,204 --> 00:35:47,664
thank you.

621
00:35:49,704 --> 00:35:49,934
Any other-

622
00:35:50,004 --> 00:35:53,584
If I may, Acting Mayor Cardoso, it's not from a lack of

623
00:35:53,664 --> 00:35:57,444
information. It's the discussion that happens in council chambers and

624
00:35:57,524 --> 00:36:01,364
has happened for the last two months where the discussion has been, have we

625
00:36:01,384 --> 00:36:05,164
engaged? Have we talked to business owners? Do we realize what it is?

626
00:36:05,744 --> 00:36:08,384
My assumptions are based on your conversations

627
00:36:09,444 --> 00:36:10,904
for all of us at this council table.

628
00:36:11,924 --> 00:36:13,844
So I am happy to

629
00:36:15,524 --> 00:36:19,184
take the information and the correction if you feel that

630
00:36:19,304 --> 00:36:21,184
is where we should take it. But

631
00:36:22,644 --> 00:36:23,184
my

632
00:36:25,684 --> 00:36:29,204
assumption on this is based on conversations that have happened at this table.

633
00:36:29,284 --> 00:36:31,664
So I appreciate the clarification

634
00:36:35,128 --> 00:36:35,608
Any other discussion?

635
00:36:36,888 --> 00:36:38,248
I'll call the question. All those in favor?

636
00:36:40,408 --> 00:36:41,038
Is there any more discussion?

637
00:36:41,038 --> 00:36:42,588
Can you read the motion again?

638
00:36:42,648 --> 00:36:43,568
Yep.

639
00:36:43,598 --> 00:36:43,598
Yeah.

640
00:36:43,928 --> 00:36:47,798
Motion is that Council amend the Traffic Regulations Bylaw 1346,

641
00:36:47,948 --> 00:36:51,888
2026 as follows: remove the no truck route provision for Michelle

642
00:36:51,908 --> 00:36:52,328
Creek Road.

643
00:36:56,168 --> 00:36:56,828
All those in favor?

644
00:36:57,728 --> 00:36:58,208
Opposed?

645
00:36:59,168 --> 00:36:59,988
Motion is defeated.

646
00:37:01,268 --> 00:37:02,088
Carried. Carried. Sorry.

647
00:37:05,088 --> 00:37:08,188
Okay, and the third motion before us is that Council give third reading to Traffic

648
00:37:08,288 --> 00:37:11,868
Regulations Bylaw 1346, 2026 as

649
00:37:11,888 --> 00:37:13,008
amended. Can I have a mover?

650
00:37:14,188 --> 00:37:15,928
Moved. Moved and seconded. Discussion?

651
00:37:17,888 --> 00:37:18,588
All those in favor?

652
00:37:19,708 --> 00:37:20,188
Opposed?

653
00:37:21,248 --> 00:37:21,988
Motion is carried.

654
00:37:22,568 --> 00:37:24,288
Second.

655
00:37:25,528 --> 00:37:26,768
Yeah.

656
00:37:49,778 --> 00:37:52,728
Our first report is from the Director of Planning and Development regarding a

657
00:37:52,748 --> 00:37:54,908
development variance permit for 1501,

658
00:37:54,988 --> 00:37:58,948
1523 Elder Drive. Mr. Sofley, the floor

659
00:37:58,988 --> 00:37:59,438
is yours.

660
00:38:00,028 --> 00:38:00,688
Thank you, Acting Mayor.

661
00:38:02,528 --> 00:38:06,028
So this is DVP-2026-001, 1501 to

662
00:38:06,048 --> 00:38:07,728
1523 Elder Drive.

663
00:38:08,688 --> 00:38:12,628
This is an area zoned R3 high-density residential and is also identified as

664
00:38:12,648 --> 00:38:14,388
multi-family residential in our OCP.

665
00:38:14,628 --> 00:38:17,608
There are two variances before you this evening, and I'll go into those in detail

666
00:38:17,628 --> 00:38:18,147
in a moment.

667
00:38:18,968 --> 00:38:22,918
The variances are requested to allow for four-plexes to be built

668
00:38:22,918 --> 00:38:26,018
with either one or two-bedroom units, so smaller four-plexes on these lots.

669
00:38:26,588 --> 00:38:30,148
The applicant's rationale is to provide more affordable housing options within the

670
00:38:30,188 --> 00:38:33,948
community. Council authorized staff to issue notice for an informal hearing on

671
00:38:33,988 --> 00:38:36,668
July 21st, and the informal hearing was held earlier this evening.

672
00:38:37,608 --> 00:38:41,488
The two variances, one is to reduce the minimum floor area for a townhouse

673
00:38:41,548 --> 00:38:43,088
from 78.97

674
00:38:44,007 --> 00:38:47,028
square meters to 60.4 square meters for all of the lots.

675
00:38:47,538 --> 00:38:51,208
And the other is to reduce the minimum lot area for a townhouse from 180 square

676
00:38:51,288 --> 00:38:55,228
meters to 175 square meters per unit for lots 14

677
00:38:55,248 --> 00:38:55,818
and 15.

678
00:38:57,068 --> 00:38:58,948
That's these lots here identified in red.

679
00:39:00,908 --> 00:39:02,858
No feedback was received through the informal hearing.

680
00:39:03,888 --> 00:39:07,668
In terms of impacts, smaller units may increase the supply and diversity of housing

681
00:39:07,708 --> 00:39:11,368
in the community. Important to note, there are no proposed changes to existing

682
00:39:11,428 --> 00:39:15,318
building height, setbacks, site coverage, parking, or permitted uses for this

683
00:39:15,328 --> 00:39:18,848
zone. Minimum unit sizes are a less frequently

684
00:39:18,888 --> 00:39:19,418
employed

685
00:39:20,408 --> 00:39:21,818
metric in modern zoning,

686
00:39:23,008 --> 00:39:25,428
as they have a direct impact on costs.

687
00:39:25,978 --> 00:39:29,328
Staff are likely to be recommending removal of this metric in the R3 zone in the

688
00:39:29,388 --> 00:39:30,928
new zoning bylaw project.

689
00:39:31,908 --> 00:39:34,858
Also important to note that once Sparwood hits 5,000 population,

690
00:39:36,268 --> 00:39:40,208
the minimum allowable density on a lot of 280 square meters

691
00:39:40,248 --> 00:39:43,428
will be four units. That means someone can build one or they could build four

692
00:39:43,488 --> 00:39:47,148
dwellings on a property of 280 square meters, which

693
00:39:47,208 --> 00:39:49,928
equates to one per 70 square meters rather than one per

694
00:39:50,288 --> 00:39:51,328
175.

695
00:39:52,628 --> 00:39:56,508
In terms of next steps, if Council approves this DVP, we'll register

696
00:39:56,548 --> 00:39:59,928
the DVP with the Land Title and Survey Authority, and it is our

697
00:39:59,948 --> 00:40:03,128
recommendation that Council approve Development Variance Permit DVP

698
00:40:03,248 --> 00:40:06,908
2026-001. If there's any questions, I'm happy to answer them.

699
00:40:06,948 --> 00:40:09,028
Thank you. Any questions of Council on the report?

700
00:40:10,688 --> 00:40:14,388
Seeing none, the motion before us is that Council issue Development Variance Permit

701
00:40:14,568 --> 00:40:18,118
DVP 2026-001 to vary Section

702
00:40:18,628 --> 00:40:21,958
3.8.2.F.I of the District Zoning

703
00:40:22,048 --> 00:40:25,588
Bylaw 264, 1981 as amended to

704
00:40:25,608 --> 00:40:29,488
decrease the minimum floor area for a townhouse from 78.97

705
00:40:29,528 --> 00:40:33,068
meters squared to 60.4 meters squared for lots 10 to

706
00:40:33,148 --> 00:40:36,428
15 DL 4135 KD Plan

707
00:40:36,548 --> 00:40:39,968
EPP 139278 on Elder Drive,

708
00:40:40,128 --> 00:40:44,088
and Section 3.8.2K.I

709
00:40:44,168 --> 00:40:47,748
of the District Zoning Bylaw 264, 1981 as

710
00:40:47,808 --> 00:40:51,648
amended to decrease the minimum lot area for a townhouse from 180

711
00:40:51,688 --> 00:40:55,557
meters squared to 175 meters squared for lots 14 and

712
00:40:55,628 --> 00:40:59,408
15 DL 4135 KD Plan EPP

713
00:40:59,668 --> 00:41:02,608
139278 on Elder Drive. Can I have a mover?

714
00:41:03,428 --> 00:41:04,818
Moved and seconded. Discussion?

715
00:41:05,808 --> 00:41:06,968
You missed a letter.

716
00:41:07,568 --> 00:41:08,628
Would you like me to reread it?

717
00:41:11,148 --> 00:41:12,068
Any other discussion?

718
00:41:13,448 --> 00:41:16,668
All those in favor? Opposed? Motion is carried.

719
00:41:21,868 --> 00:41:25,708
Our next report is from the Director of Community Services regarding Columbia Basin

720
00:41:25,768 --> 00:41:29,468
Public Art Program grant application. Ms. Jensen, the floor is yours.

721
00:41:29,748 --> 00:41:33,708
Thank you, Acting Mayor Cardoso. This report is coming before Council to seek

722
00:41:33,728 --> 00:41:37,588
approval to apply for the Columbia River Basin Public Art Program grant.

723
00:41:38,668 --> 00:41:41,248
In June of 2020, following a successful

724
00:41:41,288 --> 00:41:45,068
75%-funded grant application from Columbia

725
00:41:45,108 --> 00:41:49,008
Basin Trust, the District of Sparwood launched the Street Art

726
00:41:49,088 --> 00:41:52,948
Banner Program. This program was designed to showcase the work of local

727
00:41:53,008 --> 00:41:56,888
artists and beautify the community, with selected art pieces to be

728
00:41:56,988 --> 00:42:00,888
printed and displayed on aluminum banners and hung on select

729
00:42:00,948 --> 00:42:02,588
street poles throughout the community.

730
00:42:03,828 --> 00:42:07,568
The Street Art Banner policy was developed to guide the program, and artists from

731
00:42:07,648 --> 00:42:11,468
Sparwood, the Elk Valley, and the Columbia Basin were invited to submit

732
00:42:11,488 --> 00:42:14,928
artwork that falls within the scope of heritage,

733
00:42:15,468 --> 00:42:18,548
environment, connection to the community, and love of Sparwood.

734
00:42:19,608 --> 00:42:23,548
Submissions at the time were then evaluated by the Street Banner Advisory Group,

735
00:42:23,808 --> 00:42:25,508
a committee established by Council.

736
00:42:26,248 --> 00:42:28,988
The program ran in both 2020 and 2021.

737
00:42:29,528 --> 00:42:33,007
It was very popular, and a large number of submissions were received.

738
00:42:34,648 --> 00:42:38,398
Following this program, Council did express interest in continuing with the

739
00:42:38,398 --> 00:42:42,368
program, and budget was earmarked should the grant become available again in the

740
00:42:42,408 --> 00:42:46,048
following years. After several years of the grant no longer being

741
00:42:46,108 --> 00:42:47,868
available, the budget was removed

742
00:42:49,096 --> 00:42:52,726
Staff have recently identified a new grant opportunity that directly

743
00:42:52,756 --> 00:42:55,506
supports the proposed program. The grant is

744
00:42:55,556 --> 00:42:59,446
administered by the Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance and

745
00:42:59,556 --> 00:43:01,516
funded through Columbia Basin Trust.

746
00:43:02,416 --> 00:43:06,036
With funding up to $75,000 available and

747
00:43:06,076 --> 00:43:09,716
eligibility for 100% of project cost coverage,

748
00:43:10,136 --> 00:43:13,736
the program presents a significant funding opportunity for the district.

749
00:43:14,616 --> 00:43:18,496
If council is supportive of continuation of the Street Art Banner program,

750
00:43:19,036 --> 00:43:21,116
staff can proceed with the grant application.

751
00:43:23,396 --> 00:43:27,176
Thank you, Ms. Jensen. Before we get to the motion, I'm wondering if staff can

752
00:43:27,236 --> 00:43:28,696
just take a moment to briefly

753
00:43:29,696 --> 00:43:31,236
explain how grants work,

754
00:43:32,516 --> 00:43:36,476
what the funds can be used for, and maybe differentiate between provincial

755
00:43:36,516 --> 00:43:39,176
funding and funding that's received from CBT.

756
00:43:40,436 --> 00:43:41,096
Ms. Sheila Camp.

757
00:43:41,496 --> 00:43:43,016
Thank you, Mayor Codyzo.

758
00:43:45,176 --> 00:43:45,976
Grant funding,

759
00:43:46,836 --> 00:43:50,676
the philosophy of the District of Sparwood is that we don't

760
00:43:50,996 --> 00:43:54,956
chase grants. So we will look into grants

761
00:43:54,996 --> 00:43:58,806
for opportunities that have already been identified by council

762
00:43:58,896 --> 00:44:01,456
as priorities or

763
00:44:02,316 --> 00:44:05,586
needs within the community. So that is the first

764
00:44:06,596 --> 00:44:10,136
philosophy that we follow. Often what happens is a

765
00:44:10,156 --> 00:44:14,096
grant might come up for X, and it's not on our capital plan,

766
00:44:14,196 --> 00:44:17,236
strategic plan, but then we divert funds there.

767
00:44:17,316 --> 00:44:21,096
So that is the number one thing that we look at is for something.

768
00:44:22,456 --> 00:44:23,336
Different grants,

769
00:44:25,476 --> 00:44:26,876
Columbia Basin Trust,

770
00:44:27,836 --> 00:44:28,136
it's

771
00:44:30,536 --> 00:44:32,776
a third-party grant funding.

772
00:44:33,756 --> 00:44:37,516
They are very supportive of projects within our

773
00:44:37,576 --> 00:44:41,296
region, and their turnaround time is

774
00:44:41,336 --> 00:44:45,016
quite quick. The grants are smaller, I would say,

775
00:44:45,076 --> 00:44:48,636
in size, although we've had some very

776
00:44:48,696 --> 00:44:51,736
successful applications as well.

777
00:44:53,756 --> 00:44:57,596
And typically grants, this example here

778
00:44:57,656 --> 00:45:01,496
is 100% funded. Typically, grants require

779
00:45:01,536 --> 00:45:03,496
contributions from the district as well.

780
00:45:04,356 --> 00:45:08,196
So the larger provincial-type grants will, say, be

781
00:45:08,416 --> 00:45:12,376
50% funded or X% funded, so the remainder of the

782
00:45:12,416 --> 00:45:15,596
money would have to come from our taxpayers.

783
00:45:16,256 --> 00:45:19,116
Example is the wastewater treatment plant.

784
00:45:19,176 --> 00:45:22,416
I think we were successful in receiving just under $8

785
00:45:22,456 --> 00:45:25,336
million with a project cost of $30

786
00:45:25,376 --> 00:45:26,716
million.

787
00:45:27,736 --> 00:45:30,216
So the rest, we had to levy

788
00:45:32,496 --> 00:45:36,116
parcel taxes to pay for that difference.

789
00:45:37,256 --> 00:45:40,136
So typically, the way we approach it is

790
00:45:40,976 --> 00:45:44,896
the project would have been identified as an emerging or

791
00:45:44,956 --> 00:45:46,556
strategic topic

792
00:45:47,456 --> 00:45:48,816
many years in the making.

793
00:45:50,696 --> 00:45:53,516
An example is the Centennial Plaza

794
00:45:54,596 --> 00:45:55,576
stage and washroom.

795
00:45:56,436 --> 00:46:00,376
That was part of the initial design of the Centennial Plaza.

796
00:46:01,056 --> 00:46:03,696
When we received the quotes, they were too high.

797
00:46:03,976 --> 00:46:05,836
We couldn't afford to do the project.

798
00:46:05,896 --> 00:46:09,656
So the project was put on hold, but staff were asked to

799
00:46:09,676 --> 00:46:13,616
pursue grant opportunities. So then we'll go out, and we will

800
00:46:13,656 --> 00:46:15,976
pursue grant opportunities to bring

801
00:46:17,056 --> 00:46:19,336
it within the affordability of the community.

802
00:46:21,056 --> 00:46:22,876
Great. Thank you. Councilor Callius.

803
00:46:23,296 --> 00:46:24,416
You mind a point of clarity,

804
00:46:25,236 --> 00:46:26,136
Acting Mayor Codyzo?

805
00:46:26,716 --> 00:46:26,745
Sure.

806
00:46:26,745 --> 00:46:26,896
Yeah.

807
00:46:28,056 --> 00:46:31,356
Ms. Sheila Camp, so it's serendipitous that you mentioned the

808
00:46:33,236 --> 00:46:37,156
Centennial Plaza stage, and for a layperson,

809
00:46:38,076 --> 00:46:41,136
just so I'm understanding correctly, we don't just

810
00:46:42,036 --> 00:46:43,576
chase grants. The grants we

811
00:46:44,716 --> 00:46:47,976
pursue are based on what council is already

812
00:46:48,136 --> 00:46:51,456
prioritizing, and in the case of the Centennial

813
00:46:52,236 --> 00:46:56,076
Plaza grant, the stage, it wasn't just it fell out of thin air.

814
00:46:56,796 --> 00:46:58,176
We've always had that on the books.

815
00:46:58,216 --> 00:46:59,496
It was part of the original plan,

816
00:47:00,396 --> 00:47:02,936
and we had budgeted it previously.

817
00:47:03,696 --> 00:47:05,136
It's just a fantastic

818
00:47:06,176 --> 00:47:09,076
good news story that we happened to also get a grant for something we had planned

819
00:47:09,136 --> 00:47:13,036
on over the last few years. Am I understanding that correctly in just

820
00:47:13,116 --> 00:47:16,906
a very simple layperson's type interpretation?

821
00:47:17,596 --> 00:47:21,116
Yes. We would have proceeded when we

822
00:47:21,136 --> 00:47:25,116
budgeted, but we didn't have sufficient funding, and so council

823
00:47:25,276 --> 00:47:29,136
put it on hold until we could find sufficient funding,

824
00:47:29,656 --> 00:47:33,416
and so it's an ongoing process when opportunities do come about.

825
00:47:34,496 --> 00:47:37,276
So with this last grant opportunity now,

826
00:47:37,576 --> 00:47:41,256
we still haven't received bids on the project yet,

827
00:47:41,356 --> 00:47:44,206
so who knows where those bids might come in.

828
00:47:44,266 --> 00:47:47,936
But this opportunity made it possible that we could carry

829
00:47:48,076 --> 00:47:50,606
forward on this project that had already been planned.

830
00:47:51,176 --> 00:47:52,256
Just one further, if you wouldn't mind.

831
00:47:53,896 --> 00:47:53,906
Yep.

832
00:47:53,906 --> 00:47:57,806
So what I'm understanding then is that essentially we're not

833
00:47:57,896 --> 00:48:01,806
just finding grants which give us partial funding and

834
00:48:01,856 --> 00:48:05,586
then perpetuating even more spends which we had not

835
00:48:05,616 --> 00:48:08,216
previously planned for. These were planned spends-

836
00:48:08,226 --> 00:48:08,226
Yes

837
00:48:08,226 --> 00:48:10,236
... and we're now searching for

838
00:48:11,456 --> 00:48:14,376
other avenues for not tax increases.

839
00:48:14,436 --> 00:48:16,116
It's essentially, "Here's our plan."

840
00:48:16,496 --> 00:48:16,716
Yes.

841
00:48:17,856 --> 00:48:19,456
If we got no grants, we would

842
00:48:21,116 --> 00:48:24,176
fund it through taxpayer, which is part of our strategic priority

843
00:48:25,596 --> 00:48:27,236
plan. We're not just finding

844
00:48:28,936 --> 00:48:32,736
money or investing half of it and then just saying, "Oh, by the way, we hadn't

845
00:48:32,756 --> 00:48:33,576
planned on this, but

846
00:48:34,516 --> 00:48:38,056
now that we've got partial funding, we'll now put the burden on the

847
00:48:38,116 --> 00:48:41,856
taxpayer to put this thing that's no longer planned." There's

848
00:48:41,916 --> 00:48:43,616
a method to the madness, is what I'm hearing.

849
00:48:43,836 --> 00:48:47,556
Exactly. Like when the cost came in so

850
00:48:47,636 --> 00:48:51,256
high, council was looking at alternative solutions that may be

851
00:48:51,316 --> 00:48:55,056
portable or something cheaper. Whereas with this grant

852
00:48:55,116 --> 00:48:58,716
opportunity, it gave us an opportunity to fulfill the proper

853
00:48:58,816 --> 00:49:00,976
scope of the project. Yes, that is correct.

854
00:49:01,076 --> 00:49:01,896
Thank you for the clarity.

855
00:49:02,964 --> 00:49:03,724
Councillor Christensen.

856
00:49:04,304 --> 00:49:05,604
Thank you, Acting Mayor.

857
00:49:06,564 --> 00:49:10,284
Just for Councillor Kelly, so did we put any money into

858
00:49:10,324 --> 00:49:13,944
reserves? We just budgeted and we took it off when we

859
00:49:13,984 --> 00:49:17,884
decided not to do it? Or did we put some into reserve for

860
00:49:19,084 --> 00:49:20,144
this already?

861
00:49:20,824 --> 00:49:22,324
They are in reserves.

862
00:49:22,484 --> 00:49:23,744
So we do have funds-

863
00:49:23,844 --> 00:49:24,004
Yes

864
00:49:24,064 --> 00:49:27,924
... available in reserves for if we go beyond the

865
00:49:27,984 --> 00:49:30,384
CBT grant. Is that correct?

866
00:49:30,644 --> 00:49:34,224
Yes. I think the report that came to council on that specific one

867
00:49:34,584 --> 00:49:38,564
was with the expected cost and where the funding would come

868
00:49:38,644 --> 00:49:39,144
from. Yes.

869
00:49:39,424 --> 00:49:42,384
Okay. So those reserves have not been spent elsewhere?

870
00:49:43,124 --> 00:49:43,184
No.

871
00:49:43,744 --> 00:49:45,324
We're making interest on them right now.

872
00:49:45,344 --> 00:49:45,724
That is correct.

873
00:49:45,824 --> 00:49:46,744
Okay. Thank you.

874
00:49:48,044 --> 00:49:51,633
Sorry for the sidebar, but I feel like we just needed to get that information out

875
00:49:51,664 --> 00:49:54,603
to the public. Any questions on Ms.

876
00:49:54,744 --> 00:49:58,704
Jensen's report regarding the art program grant application?

877
00:50:01,204 --> 00:50:04,784
The motion before us is that council authorize the submission to the Columbia River

878
00:50:04,884 --> 00:50:08,834
Basin Public Art Grant for the maximum value of 75,000 for the

879
00:50:08,884 --> 00:50:12,364
continuation of the Street Art Banner program. Can I have a mover?

880
00:50:12,734 --> 00:50:14,234
Moved and seconded. Discussion.

881
00:50:16,044 --> 00:50:16,664
All those in favor?

882
00:50:17,624 --> 00:50:19,464
Opposed? Motion is carried.

883
00:50:22,844 --> 00:50:26,064
Our next report is from the director of operations regarding the Shore Grant

884
00:50:26,164 --> 00:50:28,264
application. Mr. Kaisner, the floor is yours.

885
00:50:29,444 --> 00:50:31,164
Thank you, Acting Mayor Cordoza.

886
00:50:32,204 --> 00:50:35,924
This report seeks authorization to submit a Columbia Basin Trust Shore

887
00:50:35,984 --> 00:50:39,614
Stream One grant application for planning and

888
00:50:39,684 --> 00:50:43,064
design work related to future Elk River access and amenity

889
00:50:43,124 --> 00:50:44,824
improvements near the Elk River Bridge.

890
00:50:45,604 --> 00:50:49,434
The project area currently serves as an active transportation connection

891
00:50:49,464 --> 00:50:53,244
between Sparwood Heights and Pine Avenue and functions as an

892
00:50:53,284 --> 00:50:56,284
informal access point to the Elk River Trail Network.

893
00:50:57,344 --> 00:51:01,014
The concept has been identified as an emerging strategic priority

894
00:51:01,364 --> 00:51:05,244
and has been discussed since 2019, but has not advanced due

895
00:51:05,284 --> 00:51:08,864
to competing priorities and funding availability.

896
00:51:08,924 --> 00:51:11,904
The Shore Stream One program provides funding of up to

897
00:51:11,944 --> 00:51:15,684
$50,000 and may cover up to 75% of

898
00:51:15,804 --> 00:51:17,744
eligible planning and design costs.

899
00:51:19,204 --> 00:51:22,873
The work includes concept planning, engineering review,

900
00:51:23,284 --> 00:51:27,144
environmental considerations, permitting assessments, and cost estimating.

901
00:51:28,024 --> 00:51:31,704
Staff are requesting authorization to apply for the maximum grant amount of

902
00:51:31,804 --> 00:51:34,664
50,000 toward a total estimated planning budget of

903
00:51:34,944 --> 00:51:36,434
66,700,

904
00:51:37,724 --> 00:51:40,844
with the remaining funding to be supported through the capital works reserve

905
00:51:41,744 --> 00:51:43,304
if the application is successful.

906
00:51:43,944 --> 00:51:47,484
Completion of the planning phase would provide council with a better understanding

907
00:51:47,544 --> 00:51:51,533
of project feasibility, costs, permitting requirements, and

908
00:51:51,584 --> 00:51:54,844
future implementation options while improving

909
00:51:54,944 --> 00:51:57,524
readiness for future funding opportunities.

910
00:51:58,564 --> 00:52:02,044
Please note that the approval of this application does not authorize

911
00:52:02,124 --> 00:52:06,084
construction. Any recommendations arising from the planning work would

912
00:52:06,124 --> 00:52:10,104
be brought back to council for future consideration, and any construction

913
00:52:10,144 --> 00:52:14,104
would require separate council approval and funding authorization.

914
00:52:14,864 --> 00:52:18,484
Should council support the recommendations, staff's next step will be to submit the

915
00:52:18,504 --> 00:52:21,334
Shore Stream One grant application.

916
00:52:21,384 --> 00:52:23,844
Thank you, Mr. Kaisner. Any questions of council on the report?

917
00:52:25,294 --> 00:52:28,804
The motion before us is that council authorize the submission of the Shoreline

918
00:52:28,904 --> 00:52:32,884
Outdoor Revitalization and Enhancement, Shore Grant application under

919
00:52:33,044 --> 00:52:37,034
Stream One to Columbia Basin Trust for funding up to $50,000,

920
00:52:37,124 --> 00:52:41,044
representing 75% of the eligible project costs towards

921
00:52:41,084 --> 00:52:44,984
the planning and design of Elk River access and amenity projects and

922
00:52:45,024 --> 00:52:48,984
support further planning costs up to an additional 16,700

923
00:52:49,004 --> 00:52:51,664
from the capital works reserved for a total planning cost of

924
00:52:51,864 --> 00:52:55,664
66,700. Can I have a mover? Moved and seconded.

925
00:52:55,744 --> 00:52:56,234
Discussion.

926
00:52:57,524 --> 00:52:58,224
Councillor Kalis.

927
00:53:00,324 --> 00:53:02,304
I'm going to speak in favor, but I do

928
00:53:03,624 --> 00:53:07,304
want to go on record for those that will return for 2027

929
00:53:07,344 --> 00:53:08,824
budgeting.

930
00:53:09,684 --> 00:53:12,544
Along with staff to consider is that

931
00:53:14,804 --> 00:53:15,164
as we

932
00:53:16,064 --> 00:53:18,524
improve access to the Elk River,

933
00:53:19,984 --> 00:53:23,764
while today we don't see the same public rafting day

934
00:53:23,864 --> 00:53:25,384
trip type thing that we see just

935
00:53:26,244 --> 00:53:29,934
a little bit west of here, if it was to transition to that, I know that

936
00:53:29,964 --> 00:53:33,564
Fernie Fire Rescue had to take on additional training for

937
00:53:33,584 --> 00:53:36,504
swiftwater rescue, which was a shift

938
00:53:37,564 --> 00:53:41,244
about 15 years ago as we've seen more improvements to the

939
00:53:41,324 --> 00:53:44,964
access to the river, more users, which meant more

940
00:53:45,004 --> 00:53:48,804
risk. We're not in that particular place today, but

941
00:53:48,904 --> 00:53:52,824
if we do continue to support it, it's something to consider for Chief Tennant in

942
00:53:52,864 --> 00:53:56,664
future budgeting, in that we see more people on the river, there's

943
00:53:56,824 --> 00:54:00,664
more interaction. It is a risk and, as part of the Elk

944
00:54:00,684 --> 00:54:03,464
River does go through the District of Sparwood, we need to consider that.

945
00:54:03,544 --> 00:54:03,664
So

946
00:54:04,524 --> 00:54:05,924
in support today and not

947
00:54:07,604 --> 00:54:10,524
saying we need to change anything, but keep it in mind for future.

948
00:54:11,504 --> 00:54:11,784
Thank you.

949
00:54:13,124 --> 00:54:13,844
Councillor Atwal.

950
00:54:15,464 --> 00:54:16,984
Yeah. Thank you, Acting Mayor Cordoza.

951
00:54:18,924 --> 00:54:22,404
Speaking in favor of this, I just want to say a shout-out and kudos to

952
00:54:22,864 --> 00:54:23,664
staff. I know this was

953
00:54:24,964 --> 00:54:28,124
something that we as council discussed way early on and felt

954
00:54:29,064 --> 00:54:32,204
like a very nice to have type of situation on our

955
00:54:33,144 --> 00:54:34,724
strat planning sessions way back when.

956
00:54:35,184 --> 00:54:39,144
So I'm glad that there's an opportunity to seize an

957
00:54:39,184 --> 00:54:42,264
opportunity and pursue it, at least in the future.

958
00:54:42,344 --> 00:54:42,444
So,

959
00:54:44,024 --> 00:54:47,644
kudos and shout-out to staff for recognizing something that was

960
00:54:48,464 --> 00:54:52,004
shortlisted at one point, and an opportunity for us to take it. So thank you again.

961
00:54:54,604 --> 00:54:55,384
Councillor Christensen.

962
00:54:55,784 --> 00:54:58,664
Yeah, I concur with both comments there.

963
00:54:59,324 --> 00:55:02,844
I went back to the previous council as well, so it'd be nice

964
00:55:02,904 --> 00:55:06,724
to see a grant just to get it completed, but

965
00:55:07,424 --> 00:55:10,844
we're heading that way, so that's good. Thank you.

966
00:55:12,734 --> 00:55:16,323
Yeah, I do believe it was our 2018 strategic planning

967
00:55:16,414 --> 00:55:19,994
session, and Councilor Joe Dorina had really wanted to

968
00:55:20,054 --> 00:55:23,954
see a park-like space alongside the river that people

969
00:55:23,994 --> 00:55:27,174
could enjoy. So I think he would be very happy to hear about this.

970
00:55:27,894 --> 00:55:28,594
Any other discussion?

971
00:55:30,834 --> 00:55:31,474
All those in favor?

972
00:55:32,494 --> 00:55:33,854
Opposed? Motion is carried.

973
00:55:36,654 --> 00:55:39,954
Our next report is from the Director of Community Services regarding a land use

974
00:55:40,034 --> 00:55:42,884
agreement for the community garden. Ms. Jensen, the floor is yours.

975
00:55:44,134 --> 00:55:48,054
Thank you. This report is before council to consider the renewal of the

976
00:55:48,114 --> 00:55:51,954
community garden land use agreement for the municipally owned

977
00:55:52,034 --> 00:55:54,494
property located at 440 Ingleman Spruce.

978
00:55:55,474 --> 00:55:59,324
Council first directed staff in December of 2020 to work with the community

979
00:55:59,394 --> 00:56:01,534
garden group to establish a community garden.

980
00:56:02,274 --> 00:56:06,254
At that time, the group was not yet incorporated as a nonprofit society, so

981
00:56:06,294 --> 00:56:09,534
the New to You Society acted as the sponsoring organization.

982
00:56:11,074 --> 00:56:15,014
Following those discussions, council approved a five-year land use permit,

983
00:56:15,834 --> 00:56:19,534
and the permit allowed the community garden to operate on district land for a

984
00:56:19,554 --> 00:56:23,474
nominal fee of $10 per year. Also, the

985
00:56:23,484 --> 00:56:26,934
agreement established a number of requirements related to maintenance, public

986
00:56:27,034 --> 00:56:30,294
access, insurance, fencing, weed control, wildlife

987
00:56:30,594 --> 00:56:33,114
protection, and overall stewardship of the site.

988
00:56:34,214 --> 00:56:37,794
Since that time, the community garden has become a valuable community asset.

989
00:56:37,914 --> 00:56:41,694
It currently provides individual rentable garden plots, shared

990
00:56:41,734 --> 00:56:45,714
plots, common herb beds, accessible low beds and standing

991
00:56:45,754 --> 00:56:46,394
height beds,

992
00:56:47,414 --> 00:56:50,614
a tool shed, fencing, and other amenities.

993
00:56:50,634 --> 00:56:53,774
And in addition to supporting local food production and gardening

994
00:56:53,874 --> 00:56:57,844
opportunities, the garden has hosted various community events and activities

995
00:56:58,434 --> 00:57:02,394
and continues to provide an inclusive outdoor space for residents.

996
00:57:04,234 --> 00:57:08,214
The proposed renewal keeps the arrangement substantially the same as the original

997
00:57:08,254 --> 00:57:11,614
agreement, with only a few minor administrative and operational

998
00:57:11,654 --> 00:57:15,034
updates. Key changes being proposed are updating the

999
00:57:15,094 --> 00:57:18,934
terminology from land use permit to land use agreement to better reflect the

1000
00:57:18,994 --> 00:57:20,054
nature of the arrangement,

1001
00:57:21,074 --> 00:57:24,934
entering into the agreement directly with the Sparwood Community Garden Society,

1002
00:57:25,294 --> 00:57:27,794
which has since become an incorporated nonprofit.

1003
00:57:28,694 --> 00:57:32,474
The society will now be responsible for maintaining the required insurance and

1004
00:57:32,554 --> 00:57:35,114
continuing to name the district as additional insured.

1005
00:57:36,394 --> 00:57:39,974
Adding language that formally identifies the location of the main water line

1006
00:57:39,994 --> 00:57:43,674
within the site and confirms the district's right to access the

1007
00:57:43,714 --> 00:57:46,154
area for inspection, maintenance, or repairs.

1008
00:57:46,883 --> 00:57:50,874
And this is something that the Community Garden Society was aware of at

1009
00:57:50,914 --> 00:57:51,434
the time

1010
00:57:52,514 --> 00:57:55,934
of the original agreement. This just formalizes that within now.

1011
00:57:56,814 --> 00:57:58,694
And then establishing a new five-year term.

1012
00:58:00,194 --> 00:58:03,514
Overall, staff believe the community garden has demonstrated responsible

1013
00:58:03,594 --> 00:58:07,134
stewardship of the site and continues to provide significant community

1014
00:58:07,214 --> 00:58:10,714
benefit. The proposed renewal will provide organizational

1015
00:58:10,814 --> 00:58:14,244
stability for the society while ensuring appropriate

1016
00:58:14,354 --> 00:58:18,254
operational maintenance and access provisions remain in place.

1017
00:58:18,354 --> 00:58:21,994
Staff are recommending that council authorize the renewal of the land use agreement

1018
00:58:22,054 --> 00:58:22,934
for a five-year term.

1019
00:58:24,234 --> 00:58:26,374
Thank you, Ms. Jensen. Any questions on the report?

1020
00:58:28,574 --> 00:58:31,744
Seeing none, the motion before us is that council authorize the acting mayor and

1021
00:58:31,774 --> 00:58:35,694
corporate officer to execute a five-year land use agreement with the Sparwood

1022
00:58:35,734 --> 00:58:39,614
Community Garden Society for a portion of land located at 440 Ingleman

1023
00:58:39,694 --> 00:58:43,254
Spruce Drive for the use of operating a community garden at the cost of

1024
00:58:43,264 --> 00:58:46,443
$10 plus GST per year, commencing May 1st,

1025
00:58:46,674 --> 00:58:49,874
2026, through April 30th, 2031, upon

1026
00:58:49,934 --> 00:58:53,894
completion of the statutory notification requirements set out in the community

1027
00:58:53,994 --> 00:58:57,094
charter. Can I have a mover? Moved. Seconded. Discussion?

1028
00:58:58,194 --> 00:58:58,874
Councilor Kalys.

1029
00:59:00,094 --> 00:59:02,614
Just some commentary. Again, I'll speak in favor.

1030
00:59:03,254 --> 00:59:06,914
First off, I feel like we could get at least 11, maybe $12 instead of 10.

1031
00:59:08,134 --> 00:59:10,734
It's a little tongue in cheek. Congratulations to

1032
00:59:12,074 --> 00:59:14,674
the whole group. When I first moved to Sparwood in 2020,

1033
00:59:15,574 --> 00:59:19,354
Dina Dominic had a vision, and she was working with a bunch of these folks that are

1034
00:59:19,414 --> 00:59:21,654
still involved. Dina's no longer with us.

1035
00:59:22,574 --> 00:59:23,774
Was a very dear friend from

1036
00:59:25,534 --> 00:59:26,214
times past.

1037
00:59:27,094 --> 00:59:30,514
A great legacy. I know Rose Sharma has been driving it.

1038
00:59:30,614 --> 00:59:34,494
She calls me every couple of months and says, "Steve, can you come

1039
00:59:34,514 --> 00:59:36,434
out and move some mulch? Can you help me with a truck?

1040
00:59:36,474 --> 00:59:39,474
Can you find all these things?" So, tenacious and wonderful.

1041
00:59:39,494 --> 00:59:42,914
It's great to see that the society is getting some solid

1042
00:59:43,334 --> 00:59:47,194
footing, and that it'll be a permanent fixture. So, in favor.

1043
00:59:47,254 --> 00:59:50,914
Congratulations to all that. And I know it's not just Rose, but I can't, from

1044
00:59:50,934 --> 00:59:54,493
recollection, pull in. I think Joanne Singleton may be also deeply involved and

1045
00:59:55,274 --> 00:59:58,334
a great legacy for Ms. Dominic as well. Thank you.

1046
00:59:59,794 --> 01:00:00,654
Any other discussion?

1047
01:00:01,534 --> 01:00:02,814
I'll call the question. All those in favor?

1048
01:00:03,654 --> 01:00:05,194
Opposed? Motion is carried.

1049
01:00:08,034 --> 01:00:11,334
Our next report is from the CAO regarding a signing authority update.

1050
01:00:11,354 --> 01:00:12,694
Michela Camp, the floor is yours.

1051
01:00:13,974 --> 01:00:17,954
Thank you, Acting Mayor Cardoso. This report is coming to council

1052
01:00:18,054 --> 01:00:21,834
just to approve the signing authority for Carl

1053
01:00:21,894 --> 01:00:22,374
Kennedy

1054
01:00:23,274 --> 01:00:27,054
for our banking institutions, the district banks with the

1055
01:00:27,094 --> 01:00:30,734
Royal Bank of Canada, the Municipal Finance Authority of

1056
01:00:31,374 --> 01:00:35,014
BC, and Stellar Vista Credit Union, and this will

1057
01:00:35,454 --> 01:00:38,974
give Carl the signing authority to process

1058
01:00:39,114 --> 01:00:42,254
district financial transactions. Thank you.

1059
01:00:42,574 --> 01:00:44,074
Thank you. Any questions on the report?

1060
01:00:45,184 --> 01:00:48,514
The motion before us is that council appoint the new Director of Finance, Carl

1061
01:00:48,554 --> 01:00:52,394
Kennedy, as signing authority with the Royal Bank of Canada, Stellar Vista Credit

1062
01:00:52,494 --> 01:00:56,204
Union, and Municipal Finance Authority of British Columbia, effective August

1063
01:00:56,314 --> 01:00:59,114
24th, 2026. Can I have a mover? Moved.

1064
01:01:00,054 --> 01:01:01,324
Seconded. Discussion?

1065
01:01:02,134 --> 01:01:02,754
Councilor Kalys.

1066
01:01:03,554 --> 01:01:07,454
If we're giving someone access to the cookie jar, as it were, it's

1067
01:01:08,074 --> 01:01:10,374
a bit indicative that they're not in the room.

1068
01:01:10,914 --> 01:01:12,314
It's a lot of money there to know

1069
01:01:15,554 --> 01:01:19,514
I'm just excited that we've found a new finance

1070
01:01:19,614 --> 01:01:21,434
officer. That's really great news.

1071
01:01:21,474 --> 01:01:25,354
It'll take some pressure off our finance department, and congratulations.

1072
01:01:27,134 --> 01:01:29,834
I've read the discussion, move. Yep.

1073
01:01:29,914 --> 01:01:30,574
Reply to that?

1074
01:01:30,694 --> 01:01:30,854
Yeah.

1075
01:01:31,394 --> 01:01:34,574
All good accountants retire early, Steve.

1076
01:01:37,694 --> 01:01:40,754
I'll call the question. All those in favor? Opposed?

1077
01:01:40,954 --> 01:01:41,774
Motion is carried.

1078
01:01:45,634 --> 01:01:48,354
Our next report is from the director of community services regarding a

1079
01:01:48,894 --> 01:01:52,054
recommendation from the Recreation Facility Advisory Committee. Ms.

1080
01:01:52,134 --> 01:01:53,134
Jensen, the floor is yours.

1081
01:01:54,834 --> 01:01:58,774
Thank you. I am pleased to present the final recommendation from

1082
01:01:58,834 --> 01:02:02,514
the Recreation Facility Advisory Committee, also

1083
01:02:02,594 --> 01:02:06,554
known as RFAC, regarding the future of recreation infrastructure

1084
01:02:06,614 --> 01:02:07,174
in Sparwood.

1085
01:02:08,434 --> 01:02:12,354
RFAC was established in July of 2024 with a specific mandate

1086
01:02:12,414 --> 01:02:16,194
to explore options for the future of recreation facilities in our community

1087
01:02:16,814 --> 01:02:19,934
and to provide counsel with a community-informed recommendation.

1088
01:02:20,894 --> 01:02:24,064
Over the past two years, the committee has undertaken an extensive and

1089
01:02:24,234 --> 01:02:27,334
comprehensive review process. Supported by

1090
01:02:27,434 --> 01:02:31,174
RC Strategies and technical consultants, RFAC

1091
01:02:31,254 --> 01:02:34,824
examined facility needs, recreation trends, community

1092
01:02:34,934 --> 01:02:35,564
priorities,

1093
01:02:36,614 --> 01:02:38,074
and many other impacts.

1094
01:02:39,334 --> 01:02:42,554
A significant focus of the committee's work was community engagement.

1095
01:02:43,094 --> 01:02:46,954
RFAC worked diligently to ensure residents had multiple opportunities to

1096
01:02:47,014 --> 01:02:50,274
participate and provide feedback throughout the entire process.

1097
01:02:51,154 --> 01:02:54,994
Engagement activities included community surveys, stakeholder

1098
01:02:55,054 --> 01:02:58,274
meetings, cohort discussions, one-on-one conversations,

1099
01:02:58,794 --> 01:03:02,474
public information sessions, very large and free community

1100
01:03:02,574 --> 01:03:06,274
barbecue, town hall discussions, pop-up booths, and many

1101
01:03:06,334 --> 01:03:08,074
other activities.

1102
01:03:09,684 --> 01:03:13,164
The committee's goal throughout the process was to hear from as many residents and

1103
01:03:13,254 --> 01:03:16,814
user groups as possible and ensure that all perspectives were

1104
01:03:16,854 --> 01:03:20,414
considered in evaluating future recreation facility options.

1105
01:03:22,114 --> 01:03:25,953
RFAC reviewed numerous facility concepts and explored a wide range

1106
01:03:26,034 --> 01:03:29,754
of potential approaches before narrowing the options to those that would

1107
01:03:29,834 --> 01:03:32,894
undergo detailed costing and further community review.

1108
01:03:34,134 --> 01:03:37,414
Building on the feedback gathered through the engagement process, the committee

1109
01:03:37,454 --> 01:03:41,434
returned to the community one final time and asked residents to consider

1110
01:03:41,494 --> 01:03:42,354
four options.

1111
01:03:44,054 --> 01:03:47,444
Option A was to maintain and save. Option B, to

1112
01:03:47,474 --> 01:03:49,614
maintain, renovate, and upgrade.

1113
01:03:50,214 --> 01:03:53,734
Option C, maintain and construct a new building using an

1114
01:03:53,794 --> 01:03:57,714
alternative building method, and option D, maintain and construct a new

1115
01:03:57,794 --> 01:04:00,094
building using a traditional building method.

1116
01:04:01,214 --> 01:04:04,994
A total of 192 responses were received during this final

1117
01:04:05,314 --> 01:04:06,294
round of engagement.

1118
01:04:07,354 --> 01:04:10,863
At its July 2026 meeting, RFAC reviewed the collective

1119
01:04:10,914 --> 01:04:14,594
information gathered throughout its mandate, including consultant reports,

1120
01:04:14,694 --> 01:04:15,854
facility assessments,

1121
01:04:16,674 --> 01:04:20,614
the district's financial position, stakeholder feedback, and public engagement.

1122
01:04:21,454 --> 01:04:25,384
Following those discussions, the committee unanimously approved

1123
01:04:25,414 --> 01:04:26,894
a recommendation to council.

1124
01:04:27,994 --> 01:04:31,674
The recommendation was that the district maintain, renovate, and upgrade

1125
01:04:31,914 --> 01:04:35,714
the current recreation facility with a focus on developing a

1126
01:04:35,774 --> 01:04:39,634
community gathering area while continuing to explore the potential

1127
01:04:39,674 --> 01:04:43,604
for a future new rec facility as part of a regional initiative with

1128
01:04:43,634 --> 01:04:44,694
neighboring communities.

1129
01:04:46,154 --> 01:04:49,574
This recommendation reflects the committee's assessment that improvements to the

1130
01:04:49,634 --> 01:04:53,294
existing facility represent the most practical and achievable path

1131
01:04:53,334 --> 01:04:57,114
forward at this time, while still recognizing the long-term value of

1132
01:04:57,194 --> 01:05:00,374
exploring future opportunities with our neighboring communities.

1133
01:05:02,274 --> 01:05:05,934
With the submission of this recommendation, RFAC has now fulfilled their mandate

1134
01:05:06,014 --> 01:05:09,914
established by council. I'd like to acknowledge and thank the members of

1135
01:05:09,994 --> 01:05:13,514
RFAC for their significant commitment over the past two years.

1136
01:05:13,534 --> 01:05:17,344
They all dedicated considerable time and effort into reviewing information,

1137
01:05:17,474 --> 01:05:21,194
participating in discussions, and engaging with the community, and

1138
01:05:21,254 --> 01:05:25,074
ultimately developing a thoughtful recommendation for council's consideration this

1139
01:05:25,114 --> 01:05:25,553
evening.

1140
01:05:28,034 --> 01:05:29,774
Thank you. Are there any questions on the report?

1141
01:05:31,634 --> 01:05:33,653
Seeing none, we have two motions before us this evening.

1142
01:05:34,494 --> 01:05:38,394
The first motion before us is that council receives the recommendation from the

1143
01:05:38,434 --> 01:05:42,374
Recreation Facility Advisory Committee to maintain, renovate, and update the

1144
01:05:42,414 --> 01:05:46,334
current recreation facility with a focus on a community gathering area

1145
01:05:46,874 --> 01:05:50,754
and continue to explore a new building for the future as a regional

1146
01:05:50,794 --> 01:05:54,734
initiative with neighboring communities, and that council direct staff to

1147
01:05:54,754 --> 01:05:58,364
bring the recommendation back to a future committee of the whole for further

1148
01:05:58,414 --> 01:06:02,114
discussion on next steps and possible inclusion in the 2027

1149
01:06:02,134 --> 01:06:03,654
budget. Can I have a mover?

1150
01:06:04,674 --> 01:06:06,354
Moved. Seconded. Discussion.

1151
01:06:09,174 --> 01:06:09,914
Councillor Christensen.

1152
01:06:10,114 --> 01:06:13,474
Yeah, I'd like to thank the committee. That's a lot of hard work.

1153
01:06:14,074 --> 01:06:17,974
Thanks, Councillor Cowlies and your cohorts on that.

1154
01:06:17,994 --> 01:06:20,614
Appreciate this, so thank you.

1155
01:06:25,454 --> 01:06:27,694
Yeah, I'm really proud of all the work that this group did.

1156
01:06:28,454 --> 01:06:31,854
They worked really hard to make sure that all the community voices were heard

1157
01:06:32,694 --> 01:06:35,794
and that all the groups were able to engage with the process.

1158
01:06:35,844 --> 01:06:37,594
So that was really awesome.

1159
01:06:39,294 --> 01:06:43,274
And I like the idea of exploring this with other community groups, other

1160
01:06:43,314 --> 01:06:47,234
neighboring communities. As I mentioned before, I had attended

1161
01:06:47,244 --> 01:06:50,814
a tour in Spruce Grove when we were at FCM, and they

1162
01:06:50,934 --> 01:06:52,954
had three different communities

1163
01:06:54,114 --> 01:06:57,814
come together to build this amazing recreation

1164
01:06:57,874 --> 01:07:01,794
facility. They had two sheets of ice, they had a training sheet, and

1165
01:07:01,814 --> 01:07:04,294
they also had their main sheet for their junior team.

1166
01:07:05,214 --> 01:07:09,094
And they had a black box theater, an art gallery, a

1167
01:07:09,134 --> 01:07:10,044
public library,

1168
01:07:10,914 --> 01:07:12,634
concession. They had a walking track.

1169
01:07:13,134 --> 01:07:16,734
It was phenomenal to see what happens when communities come

1170
01:07:16,814 --> 01:07:20,714
together. So I'm really hopeful that our neighboring communities will come

1171
01:07:20,774 --> 01:07:23,914
together and have some discussions with us and see what we can do

1172
01:07:26,504 --> 01:07:29,244
I'll call the question. Oh, sorry. Councillor Kallies.

1173
01:07:29,784 --> 01:07:30,484
I changed my mind. I

1174
01:07:31,304 --> 01:07:31,964
do want to add

1175
01:07:34,384 --> 01:07:35,304
one thought.

1176
01:07:36,604 --> 01:07:40,324
I would agree, I don't believe any stone was left unturned.

1177
01:07:41,844 --> 01:07:44,274
Every user group that

1178
01:07:45,084 --> 01:07:48,334
we could think of, along with those that put their hands up that we may have

1179
01:07:48,384 --> 01:07:51,724
inadvertently and unintentionally overlooked, also came to the table.

1180
01:07:52,584 --> 01:07:56,384
Every medium imaginable, accessible to

1181
01:07:56,444 --> 01:07:58,344
us, was used to get the feedback.

1182
01:07:59,684 --> 01:08:00,524
And for those that are

1183
01:08:02,604 --> 01:08:06,454
quite ardent users of the facility that know the benefits that would come with

1184
01:08:06,504 --> 01:08:10,364
a brand new build, I suspect it's a bit disappointing.

1185
01:08:11,024 --> 01:08:11,724
But I tell you what,

1186
01:08:13,144 --> 01:08:16,584
we heard Ms. Jensen talk about the practicality of the recommendation.

1187
01:08:17,485 --> 01:08:18,364
The practicality is

1188
01:08:19,605 --> 01:08:23,303
we need toilets to flush, and we need not to put raw sewage into the

1189
01:08:24,284 --> 01:08:24,644
Elk River.

1190
01:08:25,764 --> 01:08:29,584
And our priority being the wastewater treatment facility is where it ought to

1191
01:08:29,623 --> 01:08:33,184
be for generations to come. That's first and foremost,

1192
01:08:33,724 --> 01:08:35,884
not just a legal but a moral responsibility.

1193
01:08:37,235 --> 01:08:40,804
However, I'm left hopeful that we're going to have

1194
01:08:41,284 --> 01:08:45,014
other options. We had a wonderful presentation from a member of the

1195
01:08:45,084 --> 01:08:46,124
public, Tiffany Root,

1196
01:08:47,224 --> 01:08:50,994
regarding some suggestions that I think are worthwhile exploring.

1197
01:08:51,605 --> 01:08:53,624
And then also the notion of a

1198
01:08:54,485 --> 01:08:58,224
multi-community facility, which may be more

1199
01:08:58,264 --> 01:08:59,424
realistic than

1200
01:09:00,284 --> 01:09:00,815
us finding

1201
01:09:02,565 --> 01:09:05,664
tens of millions of dollars for a recreation facility.

1202
01:09:05,704 --> 01:09:07,355
We need to take care of infrastructure,

1203
01:09:08,504 --> 01:09:10,264
and I think that that's been made clear here.

1204
01:09:10,464 --> 01:09:14,164
So I'm really proud of the work done. I'm personally disappointed.

1205
01:09:14,244 --> 01:09:17,905
I would've loved to have said, "Let's find a way to find $30 million."

1206
01:09:19,105 --> 01:09:20,605
That tax burden would've been too much.

1207
01:09:20,905 --> 01:09:21,464
And

1208
01:09:23,264 --> 01:09:26,084
that was the commitment going in, is that we weren't just going to try to force

1209
01:09:26,204 --> 01:09:30,065
anything down the proverbial throats of

1210
01:09:30,084 --> 01:09:33,424
anyone. It was moreover, let's hear what the wants and needs are.

1211
01:09:33,464 --> 01:09:34,985
Let's look at the financial realities.

1212
01:09:35,065 --> 01:09:38,924
Let's look at what the projected growth is and what we can continue to manage

1213
01:09:38,985 --> 01:09:39,525
through

1214
01:09:41,124 --> 01:09:43,504
a whole bunch of wonderful work that went before us.

1215
01:09:43,784 --> 01:09:47,605
The staff and previous councils on the upkeep of this facility

1216
01:09:47,624 --> 01:09:48,084
has been

1217
01:09:49,744 --> 01:09:53,184
tremendous. We're in a great spot. That doesn't mean things are perfect.

1218
01:09:53,284 --> 01:09:54,584
That doesn't mean we won't have to invest.

1219
01:09:55,224 --> 01:09:58,904
But the stewardship shown by our

1220
01:09:58,924 --> 01:10:02,784
predecessors and the current staff remains in that

1221
01:10:02,824 --> 01:10:06,024
realm of excellence. So I think we're in a great spot, and

1222
01:10:07,904 --> 01:10:10,144
I think we continue moving with the recommendation,

1223
01:10:11,004 --> 01:10:13,074
biased as I was part of the committee, but

1224
01:10:13,884 --> 01:10:16,024
it's a wonderful place to be in. So I will be supporting.

1225
01:10:17,744 --> 01:10:20,564
Any other discussion? I'll call the question. All those in favor?

1226
01:10:21,384 --> 01:10:22,764
Opposed? Motion is carried.

1227
01:10:27,384 --> 01:10:28,684
Oh, there's a second one, sorry.

1228
01:10:29,624 --> 01:10:32,873
The second motion before us is that council dissolve the Recreation Facility

1229
01:10:32,904 --> 01:10:36,604
Advisory Committee, having fulfilled the mandate established by

1230
01:10:36,644 --> 01:10:39,824
council. Can I have a mover? Moved and seconded. Discussion?

1231
01:10:40,824 --> 01:10:44,224
All those in favor? Opposed? Motion is carried.

1232
01:10:46,464 --> 01:10:50,403
If there are no objections, council will go into committee of the whole at

1233
01:10:50,664 --> 01:10:53,204
7:10 PM to discuss item eight on the agenda.

1234
01:10:57,164 --> 01:11:00,904
Next report is from the CAO regarding a permissive tax exemption application.

1235
01:11:00,944 --> 01:11:02,304
Michele Kamp, the floor is yours.

1236
01:11:03,244 --> 01:11:03,683
Thank you.

1237
01:11:05,124 --> 01:11:08,984
Tonight I'm bringing forward a permissive tax exemption application from the

1238
01:11:09,024 --> 01:11:12,944
Nature Conservancy of Canada for their property located on

1239
01:11:13,144 --> 01:11:14,684
1002 Highway 3.

1240
01:11:15,564 --> 01:11:19,464
This report is intended to seek direction from the committee before staff

1241
01:11:19,524 --> 01:11:23,424
prepare a permissive tax exemption bylaw for council's consideration.

1242
01:11:24,544 --> 01:11:28,464
The Nature Conservancy of Canada purchased this property that you can

1243
01:11:28,544 --> 01:11:30,784
see up on the screen in light green,

1244
01:11:31,904 --> 01:11:34,704
for conservation purposes within the Elk Valley.

1245
01:11:35,484 --> 01:11:39,364
The land is being maintained primarily for habitat conservation, while

1246
01:11:39,384 --> 01:11:42,683
also providing opportunities for public recreation and nature

1247
01:11:42,784 --> 01:11:43,643
appreciation.

1248
01:11:44,623 --> 01:11:48,544
The organization submitted a permissive tax exemption application

1249
01:11:48,604 --> 01:11:52,304
on June 29, 2026, which meets the

1250
01:11:52,344 --> 01:11:55,784
application deadline established in the district's permissive tax

1251
01:11:55,804 --> 01:11:59,464
exemption policy. Staff have reviewed the application and

1252
01:11:59,544 --> 01:12:02,944
confirmed that all required supporting documentation was provided.

1253
01:12:03,524 --> 01:12:07,204
This includes proof of charitable status, organizational governance

1254
01:12:07,284 --> 01:12:10,904
documents, confirmation that the property is in good standing with the

1255
01:12:10,964 --> 01:12:14,624
district, and confirmation that the property is being used for eligible

1256
01:12:14,684 --> 01:12:15,304
purposes.

1257
01:12:16,604 --> 01:12:20,544
Under the Community Charter, council has the authority to grant permissive

1258
01:12:20,624 --> 01:12:23,984
tax exemptions to charitable and not-for-profit

1259
01:12:24,064 --> 01:12:25,024
organizations.

1260
01:12:25,854 --> 01:12:29,624
The Nature Conservancy of Canada meets the eligibility requirements

1261
01:12:29,724 --> 01:12:33,484
under both the Community Charter and the district's permissive tax

1262
01:12:33,544 --> 01:12:37,224
exemption policy. Should council choose to grant the

1263
01:12:37,264 --> 01:12:40,724
exemption, the current practice under the district's policy would be

1264
01:12:40,924 --> 01:12:44,524
100% exemption of both land and improvements.

1265
01:12:45,454 --> 01:12:49,444
The estimated municipal tax revenue forgone in 2027

1266
01:12:49,584 --> 01:12:52,884
would be estimated at $1,280.

1267
01:12:54,024 --> 01:12:57,704
It's also important to note that a permissive tax exemption

1268
01:12:57,804 --> 01:13:01,764
only applies to property taxes. They do not apply to parcel

1269
01:13:01,824 --> 01:13:03,304
taxes and user fees.

1270
01:13:05,144 --> 01:13:08,984
So at this point, staff are looking for direction from the

1271
01:13:09,044 --> 01:13:12,984
committee before moving forward with the draft permissive tax exemption

1272
01:13:13,084 --> 01:13:13,584
bylaw.

1273
01:13:14,384 --> 01:13:18,184
So the first question to the committee is, would the committee like

1274
01:13:18,264 --> 01:13:21,644
staff to include the Nature Conservancy of Canada property

1275
01:13:22,124 --> 01:13:26,024
at 1002 Highway 3 in the upcoming permissive tax exemption

1276
01:13:26,104 --> 01:13:29,924
bylaw? Depending on the discussion, the committee may wish to

1277
01:13:29,964 --> 01:13:33,604
support the exemption, support a partial exemption, or

1278
01:13:33,724 --> 01:13:35,174
choose not to include-

1279
01:13:38,256 --> 01:13:40,236
So we'll just go around the horn. Councillor Christensen.

1280
01:13:42,656 --> 01:13:43,036
Thank you.

1281
01:13:44,836 --> 01:13:48,536
Just quick question to Michelle. Michelle, help us

1282
01:13:50,256 --> 01:13:53,916
know exactly where this piece of parcel is along

1283
01:13:53,956 --> 01:13:55,116
Highway 3, please.

1284
01:13:55,436 --> 01:13:57,016
That's why I brought Mr. Sofli.

1285
01:13:57,086 --> 01:13:57,356
Great.

1286
01:13:57,506 --> 01:13:59,116
He can do a better job for you.

1287
01:14:00,296 --> 01:14:01,196
Excuse me. Through the chair.

1288
01:14:02,116 --> 01:14:05,576
So this area identified in blue, that's 1002 Highway 3.

1289
01:14:06,856 --> 01:14:08,736
In relation to town, it

1290
01:14:09,636 --> 01:14:13,476
runs from just north of the old highway intersection with Highway

1291
01:14:13,776 --> 01:14:13,836
3,

1292
01:14:15,276 --> 01:14:19,036
around the back of Fiorentino's, all the way to roughly the

1293
01:14:19,076 --> 01:14:21,616
backside of where Ace McKay's was.

1294
01:14:23,436 --> 01:14:27,396
The parcel here, you'll see the district's land,

1295
01:14:27,856 --> 01:14:30,776
our South Sparwood 88 hectares is right beside it.

1296
01:14:31,996 --> 01:14:33,796
The computer's just slowly catching up with me.

1297
01:14:34,376 --> 01:14:36,856
So this is the South Sparwood lands.

1298
01:14:37,496 --> 01:14:41,416
This up here is McKay's, and then this parcel here is

1299
01:14:41,516 --> 01:14:45,186
1002. It has a section of the Coal

1300
01:14:45,236 --> 01:14:49,076
Discovery Trail or the Trans Canada Trail, and the Fiorentino Hill Trail

1301
01:14:49,136 --> 01:14:53,096
that accesses up to Taste Like Dinner and the brand new Tailgunner Trail that

1302
01:14:53,176 --> 01:14:54,636
Sparwood Trails Alliance has just built.

1303
01:14:56,116 --> 01:14:59,936
So in terms of location, it's a fairly long parcel going from roughly

1304
01:14:59,976 --> 01:15:01,676
behind McKay's to

1305
01:15:02,916 --> 01:15:05,516
just about where the highway intersection with the old highway

1306
01:15:06,456 --> 01:15:06,616
is.

1307
01:15:09,816 --> 01:15:10,436
Councillor Cowlies.

1308
01:15:11,296 --> 01:15:12,696
Further, if you wouldn't mind, Chair.

1309
01:15:13,736 --> 01:15:16,856
When you highlighted the district property, just can you refresh my memory?

1310
01:15:16,916 --> 01:15:20,776
What is that zoned for right now, generally through the

1311
01:15:20,816 --> 01:15:22,976
pivot there, the 1072?

1312
01:15:23,756 --> 01:15:25,556
That is zoned M1 light industrial.

1313
01:15:25,936 --> 01:15:26,786
All of it is light industrial?

1314
01:15:26,856 --> 01:15:30,036
Correct. Whereas 1002 is zoned A1 agricultural.

1315
01:15:31,516 --> 01:15:33,876
Let me turn on the zoning layers for you.

1316
01:15:39,476 --> 01:15:41,186
Thank you. And while we're... Would that be

1317
01:15:42,036 --> 01:15:43,756
any impacts from the area land reserve?

1318
01:15:46,136 --> 01:15:46,556
DLR?

1319
01:15:47,466 --> 01:15:50,496
Oh, agricultural land reserve? Let me see.

1320
01:15:50,556 --> 01:15:53,216
What did I say? Area land reserve? Agriculture is what I meant. Thank you.

1321
01:16:04,456 --> 01:16:06,216
So through the chair, there's a lot of

1322
01:16:07,236 --> 01:16:11,196
busyness on the map at the moment, but you'll see crosshatching in

1323
01:16:11,236 --> 01:16:15,156
this area. That is ALR. That's all on the opposite bank of the

1324
01:16:15,176 --> 01:16:18,956
Elk River. So there is no ALR on the east bank.

1325
01:16:19,716 --> 01:16:20,496
Thank you for the clarity.

1326
01:16:22,216 --> 01:16:22,916
Councillor Christensen.

1327
01:16:23,936 --> 01:16:27,485
Yeah, thank you. Just two more questions. When did we sell it?

1328
01:16:27,645 --> 01:16:30,376
How much money did we sell it for? And

1329
01:16:31,676 --> 01:16:35,596
where does Nature Conservancy of

1330
01:16:35,656 --> 01:16:37,976
Canada get their funding from currently?

1331
01:16:37,985 --> 01:16:39,796
Is it the government of Canada?

1332
01:16:41,276 --> 01:16:43,276
We didn't sell them that property.

1333
01:16:44,256 --> 01:16:45,876
That was not district property.

1334
01:16:46,796 --> 01:16:49,956
And I don't have information on where they get their funding from.

1335
01:16:53,696 --> 01:16:55,496
So they have been paying taxes-

1336
01:16:55,716 --> 01:16:55,776
Yes

1337
01:16:55,796 --> 01:16:56,756
... is that correct?

1338
01:16:57,636 --> 01:16:57,816
And

1339
01:16:59,276 --> 01:17:01,096
you don't know where they get their funding from, eh?

1340
01:17:01,216 --> 01:17:01,976
I do not, no.

1341
01:17:02,796 --> 01:17:03,436
Anybody?

1342
01:17:05,936 --> 01:17:07,876
I don't ever remember it coming up through a

1343
01:17:09,216 --> 01:17:13,116
donation category one or two or a CBT type

1344
01:17:14,716 --> 01:17:15,096
grant

1345
01:17:16,016 --> 01:17:18,756
funding. So nothing out of our tax base, I don't think so.

1346
01:17:18,956 --> 01:17:20,506
I don't think it's a double whammy, if that's what you're

1347
01:17:21,656 --> 01:17:23,076
alluding to, Councillor Christensen.

1348
01:17:28,336 --> 01:17:28,816
Councillor Barr.

1349
01:17:29,156 --> 01:17:32,796
Thank you. Councillor Christensen, I do believe that the majority of their

1350
01:17:32,856 --> 01:17:34,936
funding comes from legacy projects

1351
01:17:37,016 --> 01:17:37,716
in the sense of

1352
01:17:39,216 --> 01:17:39,776
donations,

1353
01:17:40,856 --> 01:17:42,496
family donations, things like that.

1354
01:17:47,696 --> 01:17:48,916
Are you okay to answer the question?

1355
01:17:52,056 --> 01:17:52,576
One more.

1356
01:17:53,056 --> 01:17:53,236
Sure.

1357
01:17:53,265 --> 01:17:56,555
How many years have they been paying taxes? Do we know that?

1358
01:17:57,876 --> 01:18:00,516
I'm not sure when they purchased this property.

1359
01:18:00,656 --> 01:18:02,736
I don't know if we have that there. I'm not sure.

1360
01:18:02,996 --> 01:18:04,716
I think maybe in the last-

1361
01:18:06,376 --> 01:18:06,676
If I may,

1362
01:18:07,536 --> 01:18:11,526
through the chair, I believe this was part of the large land transfer between, is

1363
01:18:11,576 --> 01:18:15,256
it Canfor and the NCC? So most of their

1364
01:18:15,296 --> 01:18:18,896
holdings were transferred. I believe that goes from

1365
01:18:18,906 --> 01:18:21,426
Morrissey all the way up through Sparwood, around Hosmer,

1366
01:18:22,236 --> 01:18:25,996
and then some other areas. So there was a big land transfer, I believe

1367
01:18:26,056 --> 01:18:27,936
earlier this year, possibly last year.

1368
01:18:31,276 --> 01:18:35,116
Appreciate the fact that they meet

1369
01:18:35,196 --> 01:18:36,286
all the requirements.

1370
01:18:39,106 --> 01:18:39,276
Yeah.

1371
01:18:41,956 --> 01:18:45,836
I'd be saying no at this moment just because I'm

1372
01:18:46,316 --> 01:18:50,116
not sure exactly. I'd like to know more about where their funding

1373
01:18:50,476 --> 01:18:51,076
comes from.

1374
01:18:51,876 --> 01:18:52,176
And

1375
01:18:53,276 --> 01:18:57,256
I probably believe you're right, but it'd be

1376
01:18:57,296 --> 01:18:59,836
nice to know before we just say

1377
01:19:00,776 --> 01:19:02,396
yes to another exemption here.

1378
01:19:03,996 --> 01:19:04,716
Councillor Kotwal.

1379
01:19:06,296 --> 01:19:08,076
Yeah, so I remember this from

1380
01:19:09,196 --> 01:19:11,176
late 2025, so almost a year ago.

1381
01:19:12,836 --> 01:19:16,716
I'm pretty sure EVR committed $20 million to that

1382
01:19:16,776 --> 01:19:20,576
land transfer and the Kootenay Forest Lodge project, which I feel

1383
01:19:20,636 --> 01:19:22,756
like this is actually part of as well.

1384
01:19:23,056 --> 01:19:25,296
So we're looking at where that funding had come from.

1385
01:19:25,436 --> 01:19:28,125
A large portion of this specific purchase was,

1386
01:19:29,056 --> 01:19:32,956
I believe, also funded through EVR with

1387
01:19:32,976 --> 01:19:33,556
Ktunaxa,

1388
01:19:35,816 --> 01:19:36,256
which is

1389
01:19:37,116 --> 01:19:39,056
I think they all worked together on that one.

1390
01:19:40,896 --> 01:19:42,556
With all the new Sukuns actually

1391
01:19:43,436 --> 01:19:46,446
being parks as well. So if we're looking at funding for the

1392
01:19:46,496 --> 01:19:50,206
conservancy, I'm 90% sure that it came

1393
01:19:50,336 --> 01:19:54,316
from that specific one for the Kootenay Forest Lands

1394
01:19:54,456 --> 01:19:58,216
project that the new Sukuns for the five nations in

1395
01:19:58,256 --> 01:19:59,636
Ktunaxa were pushing for.

1396
01:20:00,476 --> 01:20:01,056
Just for clarity.

1397
01:20:02,036 --> 01:20:03,356
And then on top of that, I think that

1398
01:20:04,916 --> 01:20:06,336
knowing that is one of those things that

1399
01:20:07,376 --> 01:20:10,696
is in partnership with the Ktunaxa First Nations

1400
01:20:11,376 --> 01:20:14,676
and the conservancy, I'm hoping that we will continue to see

1401
01:20:17,316 --> 01:20:20,176
strong land management stewardship that we have seen before and

1402
01:20:22,256 --> 01:20:25,825
having at least some hopefully prescribed burns on that side and stuff as well, and

1403
01:20:25,876 --> 01:20:29,556
some clearing potentially for fire mitigation.

1404
01:20:29,616 --> 01:20:33,556
So my hope is that that exists. I'm fairly certain this is along

1405
01:20:33,596 --> 01:20:37,056
the same path as that. So if that is the case, I'm

1406
01:20:37,956 --> 01:20:39,116
fairly happy to support this.

1407
01:20:41,256 --> 01:20:41,736
Councillor Parr.

1408
01:20:43,476 --> 01:20:45,356
Thank you. At this point in time, I have no issues with

1409
01:20:46,596 --> 01:20:48,216
giving them 100% exemption.

1410
01:20:49,096 --> 01:20:49,756
Councillor Callies.

1411
01:20:51,236 --> 01:20:54,656
Just further to Councillor Christensen's question here, I was able to get onto

1412
01:20:54,696 --> 01:20:57,976
their annual report. It is going on two

1413
01:20:57,996 --> 01:21:01,576
years old, 44% government,

1414
01:21:01,816 --> 01:21:03,576
22% individual donation.

1415
01:21:04,996 --> 01:21:08,526
Looks about 15% foundation and organizations, things like Ducks

1416
01:21:08,576 --> 01:21:09,016
Unlimited,

1417
01:21:10,156 --> 01:21:12,976
10% undisclosed other, and then 9% corporations.

1418
01:21:13,076 --> 01:21:13,836
So

1419
01:21:14,776 --> 01:21:14,996
the

1420
01:21:17,336 --> 01:21:18,536
largest portion being government,

1421
01:21:19,436 --> 01:21:21,136
this would likely include that.

1422
01:21:23,096 --> 01:21:25,616
$1,200 and change does not seem

1423
01:21:27,216 --> 01:21:27,676
to be

1424
01:21:28,496 --> 01:21:29,276
a hardship to me.

1425
01:21:31,096 --> 01:21:32,776
It's well-funded. I don't know that I would agree.

1426
01:21:33,696 --> 01:21:37,436
I am more curious about the nature of the relationship with them and our

1427
01:21:37,516 --> 01:21:38,236
expanding

1428
01:21:39,636 --> 01:21:40,416
trail network and

1429
01:21:41,396 --> 01:21:41,676
how

1430
01:21:42,716 --> 01:21:45,976
agreeable they would be if the Sparwood Trails Alliance wanted to develop more

1431
01:21:46,016 --> 01:21:48,456
trails in the area. We give them

1432
01:21:49,416 --> 01:21:50,156
a tax exemption. I

1433
01:21:51,716 --> 01:21:54,116
think that it's worth checking in on what the

1434
01:21:55,616 --> 01:21:58,096
thought would be there. And I don't know that that would be a make or break, but

1435
01:21:58,116 --> 01:22:01,856
I'm also curious about that, is that I know that that's important to us and the

1436
01:22:01,876 --> 01:22:05,296
Coal Discovery Trail does ride through there, but we continue to see growth there,

1437
01:22:05,336 --> 01:22:05,456
and

1438
01:22:06,936 --> 01:22:08,916
I would sure hope that they'd be interested in

1439
01:22:09,756 --> 01:22:11,416
continuing in that thread. So

1440
01:22:13,816 --> 01:22:15,436
I guess I'm really not saying much there.

1441
01:22:16,576 --> 01:22:20,556
It's 1,200. I probably wouldn't be in

1442
01:22:20,596 --> 01:22:24,556
favor. It's not a hardship, so not in favor of the tax exemption is what I

1443
01:22:24,576 --> 01:22:24,896
would say.

1444
01:22:26,316 --> 01:22:26,936
Councillor Nand.

1445
01:22:28,596 --> 01:22:32,536
I have a quick question, Patrick. Have they had any public engagement

1446
01:22:33,296 --> 01:22:34,316
prior to this?

1447
01:22:37,656 --> 01:22:41,136
Through the chair. I do not know. There was a press release when the land

1448
01:22:41,196 --> 01:22:44,396
transfers went through. Other than that, I'm unaware.

1449
01:22:44,756 --> 01:22:46,696
So they may have, but not something I'm aware of.

1450
01:22:49,656 --> 01:22:50,076
Thank you.

1451
01:22:52,056 --> 01:22:53,596
Are you in favor of supporting this?

1452
01:22:53,676 --> 01:22:54,596
Yeah, I'm good with it.

1453
01:22:55,756 --> 01:22:58,036
Yeah, I had similar questions as Councillor Callies.

1454
01:22:58,116 --> 01:23:01,366
I wonder what the relationship is between them and the Sparwood Trails Alliance.

1455
01:23:01,456 --> 01:23:05,336
I think they did mention in their letter about recreation, but I'd like to see

1456
01:23:05,376 --> 01:23:07,006
some clarity on that

1457
01:23:08,076 --> 01:23:10,976
to see what that would look like before I can make a decision.

1458
01:23:12,276 --> 01:23:13,976
Okay. So I excuse me,

1459
01:23:14,796 --> 01:23:16,276
have two questions of council.

1460
01:23:17,256 --> 01:23:17,696
First,

1461
01:23:19,056 --> 01:23:22,756
I would like to suggest, and I'd like council's feedback that for the

1462
01:23:22,796 --> 01:23:26,776
policy that we bring the deadline forward

1463
01:23:26,836 --> 01:23:27,596
maybe to

1464
01:23:29,336 --> 01:23:30,796
May 31st of the year,

1465
01:23:31,756 --> 01:23:35,226
and then at this meeting that the group comes and

1466
01:23:35,296 --> 01:23:39,256
presents to council because the policy does not require me

1467
01:23:39,296 --> 01:23:42,436
to collect any of this information and I'm in no

1468
01:23:42,496 --> 01:23:44,296
position to do this.

1469
01:23:45,136 --> 01:23:49,025
And secondly, if council does not give direction

1470
01:23:49,336 --> 01:23:50,056
for this tonight,

1471
01:23:50,936 --> 01:23:54,296
there will not be sufficient time to have a bylaw

1472
01:23:54,376 --> 01:23:58,196
enacted before the statutory deadline of October

1473
01:23:58,456 --> 01:24:00,176
31st because

1474
01:24:01,215 --> 01:24:01,696
for this,

1475
01:24:02,956 --> 01:24:05,296
we would have to bring forward a

1476
01:24:06,296 --> 01:24:09,676
bylaw for first three readings, and then we have to

1477
01:24:09,736 --> 01:24:13,176
advertise in two consecutive editions of the

1478
01:24:13,236 --> 01:24:17,096
newspaper and then only it can come back for adoption.

1479
01:24:17,196 --> 01:24:21,066
So the timeline that we've currently set of applications of June 30

1480
01:24:21,696 --> 01:24:25,596
and then giving us a month of back and forth to get the

1481
01:24:25,996 --> 01:24:29,056
missing or incomplete information and to finalize it,

1482
01:24:29,836 --> 01:24:32,236
there is not much time. So

1483
01:24:33,296 --> 01:24:34,276
could I maybe

1484
01:24:35,576 --> 01:24:38,056
get council's direction

1485
01:24:39,576 --> 01:24:41,316
that the exemption

1486
01:24:42,696 --> 01:24:46,516
be considered for 2028 taxation

1487
01:24:46,596 --> 01:24:50,556
year and that we arrange for a committee

1488
01:24:50,616 --> 01:24:54,096
of the whole maybe in May

1489
01:24:54,236 --> 01:24:58,036
2028 for where the group can come and present to

1490
01:24:58,076 --> 01:24:59,066
council for this?

1491
01:25:01,116 --> 01:25:04,406
Because when council developed that policy, council wanted as

1492
01:25:04,916 --> 01:25:08,776
little as possible information from all these groups, if you

1493
01:25:08,796 --> 01:25:11,076
remember correctly. So

1494
01:25:12,486 --> 01:25:14,296
we're in a little bit of a bind here.

1495
01:25:14,376 --> 01:25:18,276
So the first question is, is it council's direction

1496
01:25:18,336 --> 01:25:21,576
that we put this application denied for

1497
01:25:21,676 --> 01:25:25,516
2027 and then have them

1498
01:25:25,536 --> 01:25:29,156
present it for the 2028 budget year?

1499
01:25:31,836 --> 01:25:33,256
Councillor Christensen, your thoughts?

1500
01:25:33,376 --> 01:25:34,176
Yeah, I'm good with that.

1501
01:25:34,856 --> 01:25:35,536
Councillor Atwal.

1502
01:25:38,016 --> 01:25:38,776
Yeah. About that.

1503
01:25:39,256 --> 01:25:39,976
Councillor Nand.

1504
01:25:40,716 --> 01:25:42,776
Thanks, Michelle. That makes sense.

1505
01:25:43,208 --> 01:25:43,868
Councillor Kalys

1506
01:25:44,548 --> 01:25:48,128
Yes, and I think the feedback we give is that we'd be interested in knowing about

1507
01:25:48,208 --> 01:25:51,498
any future plans for wildfire resiliency,

1508
01:25:53,448 --> 01:25:56,068
support with local trails alliance,

1509
01:25:56,908 --> 01:25:57,588
and/or

1510
01:25:58,768 --> 01:26:01,968
long-term stewardship plans. If it's just going to sit or if there's going to be

1511
01:26:02,708 --> 01:26:05,328
any future plans would be interesting to know as well.

1512
01:26:06,748 --> 01:26:08,008
Councillor Barr.

1513
01:26:08,868 --> 01:26:11,268
I've got no issues with your plan there, Michelle.

1514
01:26:12,288 --> 01:26:13,547
I'm also good with your plan.

1515
01:26:13,688 --> 01:26:17,128
Okay. And then the next question, does

1516
01:26:17,148 --> 01:26:17,888
council

1517
01:26:18,868 --> 01:26:22,548
support bringing the permissive tax exemption policy back?

1518
01:26:24,088 --> 01:26:27,888
We'll have to bring the deadline forward.

1519
01:26:28,288 --> 01:26:31,688
There's just not enough time. And then, as well as

1520
01:26:32,048 --> 01:26:34,948
when a new application comes forward,

1521
01:26:36,188 --> 01:26:39,808
that they present to council at the committee of the

1522
01:26:39,888 --> 01:26:40,188
whole

1523
01:26:41,068 --> 01:26:44,958
for deliberation. Is council in support of that policy change

1524
01:26:45,088 --> 01:26:45,728
coming forward?

1525
01:26:46,588 --> 01:26:47,347
Councillor Atwal.

1526
01:26:49,608 --> 01:26:49,748
Yeah.

1527
01:26:50,708 --> 01:26:51,268
Councillor Barr.

1528
01:26:52,248 --> 01:26:53,388
Yeah, then they could be on the hot seat.

1529
01:26:54,408 --> 01:26:55,188
Councillor Christensen.

1530
01:26:56,148 --> 01:26:56,348
Yes.

1531
01:26:56,648 --> 01:26:57,308
Councillor Nan.

1532
01:26:57,788 --> 01:26:58,648
Yes, I'm good with it.

1533
01:26:58,788 --> 01:26:59,468
Councillor Kalys.

1534
01:26:59,568 --> 01:27:00,008
Yes, please.

1535
01:27:00,308 --> 01:27:01,928
I'm also good with it.

1536
01:27:07,168 --> 01:27:09,808
If there are no objections, I'll close committee of the whole portion of the

1537
01:27:09,848 --> 01:27:11,598
meeting at 7:27 PM.

1538
01:27:15,028 --> 01:27:18,648
We have one piece of correspondence for council's

1539
01:27:18,688 --> 01:27:22,568
information, the Cowley Community Hall Cowley Dino Day Parade

1540
01:27:22,648 --> 01:27:24,948
invitation for September 12th, 2026.

1541
01:27:25,508 --> 01:27:27,648
Does anybody have any questions or wish to discuss the item?

1542
01:27:33,568 --> 01:27:36,928
We have four internal reports for council's information, the draft recreation

1543
01:27:36,948 --> 01:27:40,088
facility advisory committee minutes from July 16th,

1544
01:27:40,288 --> 01:27:44,188
2026. The category one funding request, funding

1545
01:27:44,248 --> 01:27:47,708
deadline reminder, ice cancellation policy, user group

1546
01:27:47,768 --> 01:27:51,608
engagement process, and payments expended for June 2026.

1547
01:27:51,628 --> 01:27:53,867
Any questions? Anyone wish to discuss these?

1548
01:27:55,708 --> 01:27:59,588
No, but going back to the parade, the 12th I do have

1549
01:27:59,648 --> 01:28:02,768
open and I haven't made a lot of them this year, so if there's a few others,

1550
01:28:04,308 --> 01:28:07,328
I don't know that we can commit tonight unless a few others have put their hand up.

1551
01:28:08,008 --> 01:28:09,988
Yeah, we can do an email poll-

1552
01:28:10,428 --> 01:28:10,578
Thank you

1553
01:28:10,688 --> 01:28:11,568
... and see where everybody's at.

1554
01:28:15,988 --> 01:28:18,128
Next are the announcements from councilors.

1555
01:28:19,648 --> 01:28:20,188
Councillor Atwal.

1556
01:28:21,928 --> 01:28:23,148
Oh, first to go. Here I go.

1557
01:28:24,508 --> 01:28:28,148
No, the only thing for me is just an open

1558
01:28:28,188 --> 01:28:30,338
invitation to anybody who is

1559
01:28:31,328 --> 01:28:34,068
potentially wanting to run for Sparrow City Council,

1560
01:28:35,008 --> 01:28:38,048
and knowing that I'm obviously not going to be running.

1561
01:28:38,228 --> 01:28:41,008
If anybody wants to reach out and have a chat,

1562
01:28:42,228 --> 01:28:46,028
I am more than happy to give my two cents and to have a conversation.

1563
01:28:46,768 --> 01:28:48,608
Just reach out, I'm happy to discuss.

1564
01:28:50,488 --> 01:28:51,228
Councillor Christensen.

1565
01:28:52,268 --> 01:28:54,518
No, I have no announcements. Thank you.

1566
01:28:54,548 --> 01:28:55,168
Councillor Nan.

1567
01:28:55,668 --> 01:28:56,408
No, I have nothing.

1568
01:28:56,728 --> 01:28:57,428
Councillor Kalys.

1569
01:28:58,888 --> 01:29:00,428
No, just building on our

1570
01:29:01,648 --> 01:29:03,508
dissolving of the artifact

1571
01:29:04,328 --> 01:29:08,238
group. Thank you for the privilege of working with that

1572
01:29:08,268 --> 01:29:09,888
team. I think a lot of great work was done and

1573
01:29:11,008 --> 01:29:12,388
set us up for success

1574
01:29:13,488 --> 01:29:13,908
down the road.

1575
01:29:14,888 --> 01:29:15,968
Nothing else to add. Thank you.

1576
01:29:16,468 --> 01:29:16,988
Councillor Barr.

1577
01:29:18,488 --> 01:29:19,288
Nothing to add. Thank you.

1578
01:29:21,168 --> 01:29:25,128
I've just been enjoying summer for the most part, and I'm headed off to RDK

1579
01:29:25,188 --> 01:29:27,248
meetings next week, and that's about it from me.

1580
01:29:30,428 --> 01:29:33,328
That concludes our business for this evening and brings us to our public question

1581
01:29:33,428 --> 01:29:37,088
period. For those on Zoom, click on the Q&A button, where you can enter your full

1582
01:29:37,148 --> 01:29:39,388
name and question, and staff will read your question.

1583
01:29:39,888 --> 01:29:43,788
If there is anyone from the public or the media who would like to ask questions

1584
01:29:43,848 --> 01:29:46,288
on the items we have discussed this evening.

1585
01:29:46,928 --> 01:29:47,988
Is anybody online, Megan?

1586
01:29:48,688 --> 01:29:49,948
We have one question online.

1587
01:29:50,148 --> 01:29:50,348
Sure.

1588
01:29:50,428 --> 01:29:54,328
Laura Cunliffe is wondering when the speed signs will be installed

1589
01:29:54,448 --> 01:29:55,768
on Michelle Creek Road.

1590
01:29:58,588 --> 01:29:59,268
Mr. Kaiser.

1591
01:30:00,408 --> 01:30:04,348
Thank you. Yeah, they've been put on back order, so we're still waiting for the

1592
01:30:04,388 --> 01:30:05,267
product to arrive.

1593
01:30:07,848 --> 01:30:09,208
Thank you. Any other questions?

1594
01:30:13,508 --> 01:30:13,998
Is there any

1595
01:30:14,828 --> 01:30:17,248
semblance of timeline for back order arrivals?

1596
01:30:18,508 --> 01:30:20,648
That's fairly ambiguous. It could be weeks, could be months.

1597
01:30:22,648 --> 01:30:24,008
The last we heard was

1598
01:30:24,868 --> 01:30:27,208
it was actually an online order, and

1599
01:30:28,068 --> 01:30:31,708
we went through the proper channels to find out what was going on, and the last we

1600
01:30:31,748 --> 01:30:32,048
heard

1601
01:30:32,848 --> 01:30:34,788
was that they're going to send it out right away.

1602
01:30:36,248 --> 01:30:37,008
I hope that's the case.

1603
01:30:37,908 --> 01:30:38,168
Thank you.

1604
01:30:40,168 --> 01:30:42,508
This brings us to the close of the public portion of the meeting.

1605
01:30:42,608 --> 01:30:45,488
Can I get a motion that the remainder of the meeting be closed to the public in

1606
01:30:45,528 --> 01:30:48,628
order that items, the subject of which fall under section

1607
01:30:48,668 --> 01:30:52,528
91 of the community charter, be discussed by council, which pertain to,

1608
01:30:52,628 --> 01:30:56,577
A, personal information about an identifiable individual who holds or is

1609
01:30:56,588 --> 01:31:00,128
being considered for a position as an officer, employee, or agent of the

1610
01:31:00,188 --> 01:31:04,118
municipality, or another position appointed by the municipality,

1611
01:31:04,268 --> 01:31:07,688
and C, labor relations or other employee relations.

1612
01:31:07,758 --> 01:31:10,438
Can I have a mover? Moved and seconded. Discussion?

1613
01:31:11,158 --> 01:31:14,168
All those in favor? Opposed? Motion is carried.

1614
01:31:14,188 --> 01:31:15,808
We will take a five-minute recess.