Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-10-19 Workshop Meeting Agenda and Reports.pdfCity of Maple Ridge 1.ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA 2.MINUTES 2.1 Minutes of the October 5, 2015 Council Workshop Meeting 2.2 Minutes of Meetings of Committees and Commissions of Council •Maple Ridge Advisory Design Panel – June 14, 2015 •Maple Ridge Agricultural Advisory Committee – June 25, 2015 •Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows Municipal Advisory Committee on Accessibility Issues – June 17, 2015 •Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services Commission – July 9, 2015 •Maple Ridge Social Planning Advisory Committee – June 3 and September 9, 2015 COUNCIL WORKSHOP AGENDA October 19, 2015 9:00 a.m. Blaney Room, 1st Floor, City Hall The purpose of the Council Workshop is to review and discuss policies and other items of interest to Council. Although resolutions may be passed at this meeting, the intent is to make a consensus decision to send an item to Council for debate and vote or refer the item back to staff for more information or clarification. The meeting is live streamed and recorded by the City of Maple Ridge. REMINDERS October 19 Closed Council 11:30 a.m. Committee of the Whole Meeting 1:00 p.m. October 20 Public Hearing 7:00 p.m. Council Workshop October 19, 2015 Page 2 of 4 3. PRESENTATIONS AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCIL 3.1 RCMP Integrated Teams Presentation 9:00 to 9:45 a.m. • Assistant Commissioner Dan Malo 4. MAYOR AND COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS 5. UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS 5.1 Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program 9:45 to 10:45 a.m. Staff report dated October 19, 2015 recommending that the Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program Decision Table be used as the method to determine the components of a community amenity program and that staff be directed to prepare the necessary policies and/or bylaws for approved once components are determined. 5.2 Transportation Plan 10:45 to 11:30 a.m. Presentation by the Municipal Engineer 5.3 Sale of Municipal Property – 280 Street Roadway (28000 block of 96 Avenue) Staff report dated October 19, 2015 recommending that the process for the sale of the decommissioned portion of 280 Street (28000 block of 96 Avenue) roadway including the preparation of a Highway Closure and Dedication Removal Bylaw be commenced and upon approval of same, the subdivision and disposition process of the resulting land parcels. 6. CORRESPONDENCE The following correspondence has been received and requires a response. Staff is seeking direction from Council on each item. Options that Council may consider include: a) Acknowledge receipt of correspondence and advise that no further action will be taken. b) Direct staff to prepare a report and recommendation regarding the subject matter. c) Forward the correspondence to a regular Council meeting for further discussion. d) Other. Once direction is given the appropriate response will be sent. Council Workshop October 19, 2015 Page 3 of 4 6.1 Maple Ridge Agricultural Advisory Committee - Maple Ridge Agricultural Plan Letter dated October 1, 2015 from Margaret Daskis, Chair, Maple Ridge Agricultural Advisory Committee providing information on work on the endorsed Agricultural Plan undertaken by the committee since December 2009. 7.BRIEFING ON OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST/QUESTIONS FROM COUNCIL 8.MATTERS DEEMED EXPEDIENT 9.ADJOURNMENT Checked by: ___________ Date: _________________ Council Workshop October 19, 2015 Page 4 of 4 Rules for Holding a Closed Meeting A part of a council meeting may be closed to the public if the subject matter being considered relates to one or more of the following: (a) personal information about an identifiable individual who holds or is being considered for a position as an officer, employee or agent of the municipality or another position appointed by the municipality; (b) personal information about an identifiable individual who is being considered for a municipal award or honour, or who has offered to provide a gift to the municipality on condition of anonymity; (c) labour relations or employee negotiations; (d) the security of property of the municipality; (e) the acquisition, disposition or expropriation of land or improvements, if the council considers that disclosure might reasonably be expected to harm the interests of the municipality; (f) law enforcement, if the council considers that disclosure might reasonably be expected to harm the conduct of an investigation under or enforcement of an enactment; (g) litigation or potential litigation affecting the municipality; (h) an administrative tribunal hearing or potential administrative tribunal hearing affecting the municipality, other than a hearing to be conducted by the council or a delegate of council (i) the receiving of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose; (j) information that is prohibited or information that if it were presented in a document would be prohibited from disclosure under section 21 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act; (k) negotiations and related discussions respecting the proposed provision of a municipal service that are at their preliminary stages and that, in the view of the council, could reasonably be expected to harm the interests of the municipality if they were held in public; (l) discussions with municipal officers and employees respecting municipal objectives, measures and progress reports for the purposes of preparing an annual report under section 98 [annual municipal report] (m) a matter that, under another enactment, is such that the public may be excluded from the meeting; (n) the consideration of whether a council meeting should be closed under a provision of this subsection of subsection (2) (o) the consideration of whether the authority under section 91 (other persons attending closed meetings) should be exercised in relation to a council meeting. (p) information relating to local government participation in provincial negotiations with First Nations, where an agreement provides that the information is to be kept confidential. 2.1 Council Workshop Meeting Minutes 2.1 City of Maple Ridge COUNCIL WORKSHOP MINUTES October 5, 2015 The Minutes of the City Council Workshop held on October 5, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. in the Blaney Room of City Hall, 11995 Haney Place, Maple Ridge, British Columbia for the purpose of transacting regular City business. PRESENT Elected Officials Appointed Staff Mayor N. Read F. Quinn, Acting Chief Administrative Officer/General Councillor C. Bell Manager Public Works and Development Services Councillor K. Duncan K. Swift, General Manager of Community Development, Councillor G Robson Parks and Recreation Services Councillor T. Shymkiw P. Gill, General Manager Corporate and Financial Services Councillor C. Speirs C. Marlo, Manager of Legislative Services ABSENT Other Staff as Required Councillor B. Masse Superintendent D. Fleugel, Ridge Meadows RCMP C. Carter, Director of Planning J. Charlebois, Manager of Community Planning A.M. Whittaker, Planner 2 L. Siracusa, Manager of Economic Development Note: These Minutes are posted on the City Web Site at www.mapleridge.ca Councillors Masse and Robson were not in attendance at the start of the meeting. 1. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA The agenda was adopted as circulated. 2. MINUTES R/2015-419 It was moved and seconded That the minutes of the Council Workshop Meeting of September 14, 2015 be adopted as circulated. CARRIED Council Workshop Minutes October 5, 2015 Page 2 of 6 Note: Mayor Read left the meeting at 9:04 a.m. 3. PRESENTATIONS AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCIL – Nil 4. MAYOR AND COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS Councillor Bell Councillor Bell attended the Union of British Columbia Municipalities conference and a Food Truck Festival. She commented that the City-hosted Federal Election debate went well and that she will be touring all Lower Mainland Local Government Association members and attending a LMLGA Strategic Planning Session. She provided an update on LMLGA conference planning. Councillor Duncan Councillor Duncan attended the Union of British Columbia Municipalities conference and a Health Forum. She provided an update on work being done by the “Strong Kids” Team. Note: Councillor Robson arrived at 9:08 a.m. Councillor Speirs Councillor Speirs attended the Federal Election debate hosted by the City, the Union of British Columbia Municipalities conference and the Food Truck Jamboree. Councillor Shymkiw Councillor Shymkiw attended a Cliff Avenue party at Memorial Peace Park and the Union of British Columbia Municipalities conference. 5. UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS 5.1 E-Comm Annual Update • Fraser MacRae, Director of Police Services • David Guscott, President & CEO Mr. MacRae introduced the item. Mr. Guscott gave a Power Point presentation providing an overview of E-Comm services. Council Workshop Minutes October 5, 2015 Page 3 of 6 5.2 Maple Ridge Commercial and Industrial Strategy Implementation Plan Staff report dated October 5, 2015 recommending that the Maple Ridge Commercial and Industrial Strategy Implementation Plan Matrix be endorsed. The Director of Planning introduced the item. The Manager of Community Planning gave a power point presentation providing an overview of the Strategy and the Implementation Plan Matrix. R/2015-420 It was moved and seconded That the Maple Ridge Commercial and Industrial Strategy Implementation Plan Matrix, attached as Appendix A to the report titled Maple Ridge Commercial and Industrial Strategy Implementation Plan dated October 5, 2015, be endorsed. R/2015-421 It was moved and seconded That the motion be amended to add the text “; and further that the Manager of Economic Development be directed to provide feedback and options on the Implementation Plan Matrix. CARRIED MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED Councillor Bell, Councillor Robson – OPPOSED 5.3 Albion Flats - Area Planning and Alternative Options for Land Use Staff report dated October 5, 2015 recommending that the option to revisit the 2010 Charrette Options be endorsed. The Planner gave a power point presentation providing an overview of the report. Note: Mayor Read returned to the meeting at 10:39 a.m. and assumed the Chair. R/2015-422 It was moved and seconded That Option 2: Revisit 2010 Charrette Options, as outlined in Section 3 of the staff report titled Albion Flats – Area Planning and Alternative Options for Land Use and dated October 5th, 2015 be endorsed. CARRIED Council Workshop Minutes October 5, 2015 Page 4 of 6 Note: The meeting recessed at 11:15 a.m. and reconvened at 11:30 a.m. 5.4 Designation of Deputy Mayor Resolution designating Councillor Shymkiw to serve as the Acting Mayor, referred to as the Deputy Mayor and schedule for presiding officers at Committee of the Whole Meetings. Note: The resolution pertaining to the presiding officers at the Committee of the Whole Meeting was deferred due to the absence of Councillor Masse and to allow for opportunity to get feedback on the proposed schedule. R/2015-423 It was moved and seconded That the designation by the Mayor of Councillor Shymkiw to serve as the Acting Mayor, who shall be referred to as the Deputy Mayor, be ratified. CARRIED Councillor Bell - OPPOSED 5.5 Signing Authority for Accounts Approval of signing authority for accounts at TD Canada Trust R/2015-424 It was moved and seconded That the following be approved as signing authorities for accounts at TD Canada Trust: For Payroll and General accounts the signing restrictions will be the Mayor or a Councillor with the Manager of Accounting or Manager of Financial Planning or Manager of Revenue & Collections or Manager of Finance Business Systems. The authorized signing officers for this account are: Nicole Read (Mayor), Corisa Bell (Councillor), Kiersten Duncan (Councillor), Robert Masse (Councillor), Tyler Shymkiw (Councillor), Craig Speirs (Councillor), Gordy Robson (Councillor), Catherine Nolan (Manager of Accounting), Trevor Thompson (Manager of Financial Planning), Silvia Rutledge (Manager of Revenue & Collections) and Kathleen Gormley (Manager of Finance Business Systems). CARRIED Council Workshop Minutes October 5, 2015 Page 5 of 6 6. CORRESPONDENCE 6.1 Fraser Health – Harm Reduction Letter dated September 18, 2015 from Dr. Shovita Padhi, Medical Health Officer, speaking to the issue of harm reduction and inappropriately discarded needles. R/2015-425 It was moved and seconded That the letter dated September 18, 2015 from Dr. Shovita Padhi, Medical Health Officer, Fraser Health be received for information. CARRIED It was consensus of Council that a letter stating that the City of Maple Ridge is looking forward to further discussion of an action plan be sent to Fraser Health. 6.2 Renewed Federal Comprehensive Land Claims Policy – Metro Vancouver Letter dated September 18, 2015 from Greg Moore, Chair, Metro Vancouver Board, requesting endorsement of Metro Vancouver’s resolution expressing concerns that local governments and local government interests were not identified in a report on the renewed federal comprehensive land claims policy in relation to local government interests titled “A New Direction”. R/2015-426 It was moved and seconded That the City of Maple Ridge endorse the Metro Vancouver report titled “An Analysis of a New Direction Report on the Renewed Federal Comprehensive Land Claims Policy in Relation to Local Government Interests” and that a letter be sent to the federal Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada advising of the City’s support of the report. CARRIED 7. BRIEFING ON OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST/QUESTIONS FROM COUNCIL – Nil 8. MATTERS DEEMED EXPEDIENT – Nil Council Workshop Minutes October 5, 2015 Page 6 of 6 9. ADJOURNMENT – 11:55 a.m. _______________________________ N. Read, Mayor Certified Correct ___________________________________ C. Marlo, Corporate Officer 2.2 Committee and Commission Meetings Minutes 2.2 Advisory Design Panel Minutes Page 1 of 3 City of Maple Ridge ADVISORY DESIGN PANEL The Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Maple Ridge Advisory Design Panel held in the Blaney Room at Maple Ridge Municipal Hall,11995 Haney Place, Maple Ridge, British Columbia, on Tuesday,June 14, 2015 at 4:00 pm. COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT Blair Arbuthnot Landscape Architect Roger Amenyogbe Architect Johnny Leung Architect Mark Lesack Architect STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT Sunny Schiller Committee Clerk Adrian Kopystynski Staff Liaison, Acting Manager of Development and Environmental Services REGRETS Kyoung Bae Park Landscape Architect 1.CALL TO ORDER The Chair called the meeting to order at 4:05 pm. 2.AGENDA ADOPTION R15-016 It was moved and seconded That the agenda be amended to postpone Item 5.1 to the September meeting and be adopted as amended. CARRIED 3.MINUTES APPROVAL R15-017 It was moved and seconded That the Minutes of June 9, 2015 be approved. CARRIED Maple Ridge Advisory Design Panel -Tuesday,July 14, 2015 Maple Ridge Advisory Design Panel Minutes Page 2 of 4 4.PROJECTS 4.1 Development Permit No:2015-043-DP Applicant:Curtis Gray/Cheryl Bijl, Krahn Engineering Project Architect:Larry Podhora Project Landscape Architect:KD Planning and Design Ltd. Owners:MDZ Holdings Ltd. Proposal:A single-storey multi-tenant industrial concrete tilt-up building. Location:20159 115A Avenue File Manager:Michelle Baski The project applicant, architect and landscape architect were introduced.The Staff Liaison provided an overview of the proposed project. The project team made a presentation of the project plans. R15-018 It was moved and seconded That the application be supported and the following concerns be addressed as the design develops and be submitted to Planning staff for follow-up: 1.Consider a corner massing element on the south west corner 2.Consider a stronger colour element on the building 3.Consider west façade entries with design elements that may include canopies and spaces for signage for each unit 4.Consider providing a continuous pedestrian corridor along the west façade, that matches hard scape surfacing of entry ways 5.Consider providing an outdoor amenity space 6.Portray an accurate image of the art work on the south façade 7.Consider additional architectural features on south façade (Consider modifying design of windows on south elevation 8.Provide additional detailing for rear and east fencing 9.Provide additional security for rear access path 10.Provide additional detail for standalone sign to ensure sign does not conflict with art work. In addition to confirming consistency of mate rials between building and sign 11.Provide further design refinement of outdoor storage area (screening, buffering of storage, fencing details) 12.Show bollards on elevations for overhead doors 13.Show further information on retaining wall details 14.Preference for providing accessible pathway connection between sidewalk and building 15.Consider providing exterior lighting on artwork CARRIED Maple Ridge Advisory Design Panel -Tuesday,July 14, 2015 Maple Ridge Advisory Design Panel Minutes Page 3 of 4 4.2 Development Permit:2015-081-DP Applicant:Harj Sekhon Project Architect:Heather Johnston Landscape Architect: Owners:931919 B.C. Ltd. Proposal:Restaurant (Freshii) Location:22464 Lougheed Highway File Manager:Adam Rieu The applicant and architect were introduced.The Staff Liaison reported that this was a returning application from the June 2015 meeting and gave an overview of the recommendations made at that time. The architect made a presentation of the revised plans. R15-019 It was moved and seconded That the application be supported and the following concerns be addressed as the design develops and be submitted to Planning staff for follow-up: 1.Confirm the cornice is within the property line on the east side 2.Provide further details on profile of canopy. Confirm canopy is within city bylaws for covering sidewalk.Confine the canopy within the concrete pilasters 3.Consider consistency between front and rear façade materials 4.Consider additional architectural feature on rear upper façade 5.Consider formalizing the mural on the east façade with context for art and provide further details on installation 6.Consider additional landscape details for planter boxes in front and rea r areas 7.Provide additional landscape in rear planter 8.Consider additional window features on frontage (for example awning on upper windows) 9.Provide additional details for frontage hardscape pavers 10.Provide additional detail of garbage area and ensure materi als are consistent with building façade CARRIED 4.3 Development Permit No:2015-194-DP Applicant:Stantec Project Architect:Stantec Project Landscape Architect:None Owners:Narland Properties (Haney) Ltd Proposal:Rebrand the west end of the existing shopping centre structure from Target to Walmart. Location:11900 Haney Place File Manager:Amelia Bowden Maple Ridge Advisory Design Panel -Tuesday,July 14, 2015 Maple Ridge Advisory Design Panel Minutes Page 4 of 4 The Staff Liaison provided an overview of the plan to update the façade of 11900 Haney Place. The colour scheme and logo elements will be updated. R15-020 It was moved and seconded That the application be supported and the following concerns be addressed as the design develops and be submitted to Planning staff for follow-up: 1.Consider alternate texture transition for the pedestrian zone in front of main entry in lieu of speed bumps. Should speed bumps be retained consider alternative texture at east west drive aisles entering onto pedestrian crossing 2.Consider vertically aligning the pharmacy signage with main Walmart sign 3.Consider installing landscaping islands were previous cart corals were located 4.Review and supplement all landscape areas with new plant material for full coverage in all existing landscape areas 5.Consider weather protection over west exit doors CARRIED 5.NEW BUSINESS & UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5.1 Village Commercial Development Permit Area Guidelines Postponed 5.2 ADP Applicant Checklist Feedback from panel members has been incorporated into the checklist. A printed updated checklist was reviewed by the panel and further suggestions were made to improve the form. Once these suggestions are included the form is ready for distribution. 6.PRESENTATIONS -Nil 7.C0RRESPONDENCE -Nil 8.NEXT MEETING Tuesday,September 8, 2015 Applicant deadline:Monday,August 17, 2015 9.ADJOURNMENT /ss Agricultural Advisory Committee Page 1 of 3 City of Maple Ridge AGRICULTURAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING The Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Agricultural Advisory Committee, held in the Blaney Room, at Maple Ridge Municipal Hall on Thursday,June 25,2015 at 7:00 pm. ____________________________________________________________________________________ COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT Bill Hardy Member at Large Chris Zabek Regional Agrologist, Ministry of Agriculture & Lands Jennifer Zickerman Agricultural Sector Margaret Daskis, Chair Community at Large Councillor Duncan City of Maple Ridge Councillor Speirs City of Maple Ridge Kimberley Lauzon, Vice Chair Member at Large Stephanie James Equestrian Agricultural Sector Ian Brooks Member at Large GUESTS Leanne Koehn Co-Coordinator,More Peas Please STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT Jim Charlebois Manager, Community Planning (Acting Staff Liaison) Sunny Schiller Committee Clerk REGRETS/ABSENTS Candace Gordon Haney Farmers Market Al Kozak Agricultural Sector Lorraine Bates Agricultural Fair Board Siobhan Murphy Siobhan Murphy Staff Liaison Tony Pellet Registered Planner, Agricultural Land Commission 1.CALL TO ORDER There being a quorum present,the Chair called the meeting to order at 7:04 pm and introductions were made. 2.AGENDA ADOPTION R15-008 It was moved and seconded That the Agenda be amended to include: Item 6.1 Letter from Christian Cowley and Item 5.2.3 Backyard Chickens and be adopted as amended. CARRIED Regular Meeting –June 25, 2015 Agricultural Advisory Committee Minutes Page 2 of 4 3.MINUTE ADOPTION R15-009 It was moved and seconded That the Minutes of May 28, 2015 be adopted. CARRIED 4.DELEGATIONS 4.1 Leanne Koehn,Co-Coordinator, More Peas, Please! Leanne Koehn made a presentation on the More Peas, Please!program which creates starter gardens for families with limited gardening experience. The organization encourages vegetable gardening by providing a successful initial experience. The program began by planting 12 in 2013.Interested families apply, then More Peas Please volunteers provide seeds and help the families build the garden.More Pease Please can be contacted through Facebook. Neighbourhood Matching grants have provided funding for the program for the last two years.To secure long term funding Ms. Koehn requested that More Peas Please become a project funded annually by the Agricultural Advisory Committee.It was agreed that the committee would consider the request during business planning in the fall. 5.NEW AND UNFINISHED BUSINESS 5.1 Council Update 5.1.1 June 16, 2015 Agricultural Plan Presentation to Council Councillor Speirs updated the committee on the progress of the review of advisory committees by Council. Council would like to see the AAC focus on priorities that align with the goal of encouraging economic growth. Council would like to see agricultural plan items prioritized. The Manager, Community Planning,provided a copy of the presentation recently made by Planning to Council, which provided background on how the agricultural plan was developed and how the AAC came to be. Council has asked the committee to review the Agricultural Plan goals and identify what has been completed and what is ongoing work.The Committee discussed projects that may be impacted. 5.1.2 Council Prioritization –Jim Charlebois The Manager, Community Planning,outlined the process for prioritizing items from the Agricultural Plan. The goal is to provide Council with updated priorities in the fall and seek Council feedback.Stephanie James, Ian Brooks, Chris Zabek and Margaret Daskis volunteered to sit on an Agricultural Plan Review subcommittee. Councillor Speirs and Councillor Duncan will participate in the process as required. Regular Meeting –June 25, 2015 Agricultural Advisory Committee Minutes Page 3 of 4 5.2 Projects 5.2.1 Food Garden Contest Stephanie James provided an update on the Food Garden Contest.A decision has been made to extend the contest deadline to Monday June 29, 2015. 5.2.2 Golden Harvest Jim Charlebois reported that a job description has been created for a Golden Harvest co-ordinator.The Committee Clerk shared an email from Ms.Candace Gordon that stated that once the Golden Harvest subcommittee had approved the plan to hire a co-ordinator (via email)a meeting would be held with the co- ordinator as soon as possible. The subcommittee anticipates a similar event to past ones and will provide regular reports to the committee going forward. Candace Gordon,Councillor Speirs,and Jennifer Zickerman were confirmed as members of the Golden Harvest subcommittee.Printing and design work will be required to promote the event. R15-010 It was moved and seconded That the Golden Harvest subcommittee be empowered to hire a co-ordinator after they have reviewed the co-ordinator job description. CARRIED 5.2.3 Backyard Chickens Stephanie James reported that the City of Pitt Meadows has decided not to allow backyard chickens after a one year trial.During the trial Pitt Meadows received a small number of applications to have backyard chickens and received a number of complaints.After discussion it was decided to add the item to the next AAC agenda. 6.CORRESPONDENCE 6.1 Letter from Christian Cowley –Request for Support for North Fraser Centre A draft letter by Christian Cowley requesting the support of Council for the proposed North Fraser Centre was provided to the Committee for review and feedback.Mr. Cowley was present at the meeting and asked that the committee endorse the idea of the North Fraser Centre and forward the letter to Council with their support.The committee discussed the project and the creation of a local food hub. It was suggested that a presentation on the North Fraser Centre be made to Council in September to outline the project. R15-011 It was moved and seconded That the CEED Centre / North Fraser Centre project be supported by the Agricultural Advisory Committee. Regular Meeting –June 25, 2015 Agricultural Advisory Committee Minutes Page 4 of 4 R15-012 It was moved and seconded That the words “in principle”be added after the word “That” and before the words “the CEED Centre / North Fraser Centre”. CARRIED MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED Councillor Duncan left the meeting at 8:39 pm. 7.ROUNDTABLE Ian Brooks will be unavailable for subcommittee work between July 15th and Aug 20th. Margaret Daskis requested an electronic version of the agricultural plan for use by the review subcommittee. Bill Hardy reported that the growing season is coming to a close. Mr. Hardy recently participated in a Garden Days event that highlighted the benefits of gardening. Mr.Hardy outlined the issues facing his nursery in regards to the cost of water. Chris Zabek reported that water shortages are an issue throughout the province this year. Stephanie James reported she was glad the AAC has resumed meeting. She outlined the experiences her farm is having this year with water shortages ,dry soil and the struggle to get plants to mature. Councillor Speirs reported on his recent Utilities Committees meeting –water shortages and Chafer beetles were hot topics. Jennifer Zickerman reported she is busy with her business and the Farmers Market.Ms. Zickerman has recently completed courses on agricultural and economic topics and hopes to bring some of the ideas gained to the Committee in the future. Margaret Daskis reported on the recent developments at the Metro Vancouver Agricultural Advisory Committee. 7.COMMUNITY FORUM -Nil 8.ADJOURNMENT It was moved and seconded That the meeting be adjourned at 8:56 pm. 9.Next Meeting:Thursday,September 24, 2015 Agenda Deadline:Thursday,September 10,2015 Chair /ss Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows Municipal Advisory Committee on Accessibility Issues Page 1 of 3 MAPLE RIDGE/PITT MEADOWS MUNICIPAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON THE ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES The Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows Municipal Advisory Committee on Accessibility Issues, held in the Meadows Room at the Pitt Meadows Municipal Hall on Wednesday,June 17, 2015 at 5:30 p.m. COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT Greg Turnbull Community At Large, Maple Ridge Cydney Peacock Community at Large, Maple Ridge Bernice Rolls Community at Large, Maple Ridge Councillor Bruce Bell Council Liaison, City of Pitt Meadows Maria Kovacs Community At Large, Maple Ridge Councillor Craig Speirs Council Liaison, City of Maple Ridge Mike Murray School District #42 Trustee STAFF PRESENT Petra Frederick Recreation Coordinator REGRETS/ABSENT Julie Lewis Fraser Health Authority Gillian Small Ridge Meadows Association for Community Living Kevin Priebe, Chair Community At Large, Maple Ridge Sunny Schiller Committee Clerk 1.CALL TO ORDER There being a quorum present,the Staff Liaison called the meeting to order at 5:35 pm. 2.AGENDA ADOPTION R15-018 It was moved and seconded That the agenda be amended to add Wheel Chair accessible bus stop discussion -East Maple Ridge and be adopted as amended. CARRIED Regular Meeting Minutes -Wednesday,June 17, 2015 Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows Municipal Advisory Committee on Accessibility Issues Page 2 of 3 3.MINUTES ADOPTION R15-019 It was moved and seconded That the Minutes of May 21, 2015 be amended to show the awards beginning at 7pm (not 8 pm) and be adopted as amended. CARRIED 4.DELEGATIONS & PRESENTATIONS -Nil 5.COMMUNITY FORUM -Nil 6.NEW & UNFINISHED BUSINESS 6.1 Survey Update /Discussion The survey was reviewed. A few minor corrections were discussed. R15-020 It was moved and seconded That the survey be amended to include the corrections and then be adopted and be made available to the public for September 2015. CARRIED R15-021 It was moved and seconded That Cydney Peacock be elected Vice-Chair. CARRIED 6.2 2016 Business Planning The 2015 business plan was reviewed and an evaluation process was used to determine 2016 business plan items.The business plan will be updated and brought back for adoption at the September 2015 meeting. 6.3 2016 Meeting Schedule The 2016 meeting schedule was discussed and the following changes were decided: Meetings for September, October, March and April to be held in Pitt Meadows Meetings for November, January, February,May and June to be held in Maple Ridge 6.4 Wheelchair Accessible Bus Stop –East Maple Ridge A wheelchair accessible bus stop in east Maple Ridge was discussed.A request was made for Staff to follow up with Engineering in regards to this issue. Regular Meeting Minutes -Wednesday,June 17, 2015 Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows Municipal Advisory Committee on Accessibility Issues Page 3 of 3 7.CORRESPONDENCE -Nil 8.ROUNDTABLE 9.AJOURNMENT 7:00 PM Page 1 of 6 City of Maple Ridge and the City of Pitt Meadows MAPLE RIDGE and PITT MEADOWS PARKS & LEISURE SERVICES COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING The Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services Commission, held in the Meadows Room, Pitt Meadows City Hall, 12007 Harris Road, Pitt Meadows, British Columbia, on Thursday, July 9, 2015 at 6:30 pm. COMMISSIONERS PRESENT Commissioner Nicole Read, Chair City of Maple Ridge, Mayor Commissioner Bill Dingwall, Vice-Chair City of Pitt Meadows, Councillor, Acting/Mayor Commissioner Richard Boulton Member at Large, Pitt Meadows Commissioner Kiersten Duncan City of Maple Ridge, Councillor Commissioner Nancy Jellett Member at Large, Maple Ridge Commissioner Don Mitchell Member at Large, Maple Ridge Commissioner David Murray City of Pitt Meadows, Councillor Commissioner Dave Rempel School District No. 42, Board of Education, Trustee Commissioner Shannon Roberts Member at Large, Pitt Meadows Commissioner Tyler Shymkiw City of Maple Ridge, Councillor Commissioner Christine Smith Member at Large, Maple Ridge Commissioner Mike Stark City of Pitt Meadows, Councillor STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT Kelly Swift General Manager: Community Development, Parks & Recreation Services Sue Wheeler Director Community Services Wendy McCormick Director Recreation David Boag Director Parks & Facilities Geoff Mallory Manager Parks & Open Space Bruce McLeod Manager Parks Planning & Development Ingrid Kraus Executive Assistant COMMISSIONERS ABSENT Commissioner John Becker City of Pitt Meadows, Mayor Commissioner Mike Murray School District No. 42, Board of Education, Chair Commissioner Eleanor Palis School District No. 42, Board of Education, Trustee Commissioner Stefany Tunshell Member at Large, Maple Ridge There being a quorum present, Chair Nicole Read called the meeting to order at 6:35 pm. 1. Welcome & Introductions Commissioner Read welcomed everyone to the meeting and introductions were made. 2. Adoption of the Agenda Add Item 5.1 - Youth Services Video Renumber Item 5.2 – Virtual Parks Tour Add Item 8.4 - Caribbean Festival Letter – Funding Request. Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services Commission Regular Meeting Minutes – July 9, 2015 Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services Commission Regular Minutes Page 2 of 6 R15-048 It was moved and seconded That the Agenda for July 9, 2015 be adopted as amended. CARRIED 3. Minutes of the Commission Regular Meeting – June 11, 2015 It was noted that Commissioner Bill Dingwall, Pitt Meadows Councillor/Acting Mayor, was in attendance at the June meeting and that Commissioner-at-Large member, Shannon Roberts was not present. R15-049 It was moved and seconded That the Minutes of the Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services Commission Regular Meeting of June 11, 2015 be approved as amended. CARRIED 4. Delegations - Nil 5. Staff Presentation: 5.1 Youth Services Video Ms. Sue Wheeler introduced the YouTube video. During this year’s Pitt Meadows Day festival, youth services was involved in a number of activities including participating in the parade, hosting a scooter competition, having a field exhibit and working with the youth multi-media program to capture the event through film. The parade float which consisted of the YOI bus was a big hit with youth from the Mentorship program handing out treats with action park etiquette cards. Youth Services also hosted a field exhibit with youth workers promoting the program and engaging youth and families with giant games. To capture the energy, a Pitt Meadows Day video was produced as part of the newly created Multi-media program that helps youth that are interested in a career in photography and filming, learn the fundamentals of planning, filming and editing. This was their first production. The video was shown and Commissioner Stark asked if it could be made available to post on the Pitt Meadows website. http://youtu.be/kR9Odh-2G7U 5.2 Virtual Parks Tour Mr. Bruce McLeod introduced the format for the Virtual Parks Tour presentation. Ms. Syliva Pendl spoke to the Whonnock Lake Project and signage; Mr. Michael Millward reviewed the facilities projects and Mr. Geoff Mallory spoke to the Parks Operations projects. A discussion followed with Commission member’s commenting on the volume and quality of the work completed. Commissioner Jellett asked whether more information on the Mill Creek Trail could be included on the Parks & Leisure Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services Commission Regular Meeting Minutes – July 9, 2015 Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services Commission Regular Minutes Page 3 of 6 Services website. Additional information was provided on what the process is for opening the pools for the summer. 6. Decision Items 6.1 Festival Grant Approvals – Second Intake Ms. Yvonne Chui spoke to the festival grants report and thanked the festival subcommittee on their work for this second intake. The sub-committee includes Commissioners Richard Boulton, Christine Smith and Commissioner Stefany Tunshell, who was unable to attend this evening. Commissioner Dave Rempel declared a conflict of interest and stepped out at 7:28 pm. Ms. Chui explained that the applications were well done and reviewed the applications and funding chart. The next intake will be February 2016. A discussion on the funding and the policy followed. R15-050 It was moved and seconded That the festival support allocations for December 2015 to April 2016 be approved as recommended by the Commission Festival Support Sub-Committee in the attached 2015-07-09 chart on this subject for a total allocation of $17,900. CARRIED Opposed Commissioner Dave Murray Commissioner Dave Rempel returned to the meeting at 7:40 pm. 6.2 Upper Maple Ridge Park – Dog Off Leash Geoff Mallory reviewed the report and stated that the size of the off-leash park was modified based on the feedback received from the on-site meeting. Staff will be installing the park on a six month trial and soliciting feedback from the users and neighbouring residents. Comments on the use of the feedback form, how results will be used and whether there were any impacts on the ball associations were discussed. Mr. Westrand of Maple Ridge was acknowledged and asked if he had any comments to add. Mr. Westrand indicated he would be visiting the Westview Park in the next few weeks. R15-051 It was moved and seconded That staff be directed to install the proposed off-leash area at Upper Maple Ridge Park on the condition that the Commission be provided with a report of all compliments or complaints after a six month period of operation, at which time a final determination can be made on the future use of this site as an off-leash area. CARRIED Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services Commission Regular Meeting Minutes – July 9, 2015 Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services Commission Regular Minutes Page 4 of 6 6.3 Special Event Trailer Memorandum of Understanding Renewal Ms. Yvonne Chui reviewed the report and partnership with the Ridge Meadows Association of Community Living (RMACL). The program offers delivery of the event trailer for use in both communities. This service is good quality and affordable to the community. It also offers employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. A discussion followed and comments on the value and investment of this service were noted. Commissioner Mitchell asked about the rental fee split. R15-052 It was moved and seconded That the Memorandum of Understanding with the Ridge Meadows Association for Community Living for the special event trailer be renewed for an additional three years. CARRIED 6.4 Pitt Meadows Community Garden (PMCG) Agreement Mr. Geoff Mallory mentioned the presentation made by the PMCG representatives in January and then spoke to the staff report. A discussion followed on opportunities for incorporating a gate as part of the centennial project, hours of operation/watering times and whether there were opportunities for donations to the food bank. A question was raised regarding the need for a plumber and Mr. David Boag provided the history of the garden and why the expertise of a certified plumber is required. Commissioner Dave Murray suggested that funding additional costs might be something that could be brought back to Pitt Meadows Council for further discussion. R15-053 It was moved and seconded That the Chair and General Manager, Community Development, Parks and Recreation be authorized to sign and seal the License to Occupy agreement with the Pitt Meadows Community Garden Society. CARRIED 6.5 Fundamentals Day Care Lease Ms. Wendy McCormick indicated that this is the operator’s first renewal option and reviewed the report. R15-054 It was moved and seconded That a recommendation be forwarded to Maple Ridge Council that the Corporate Officer be authorized to sign and seal the Fundamentals Childcare Centre Lease Agreement 2015-2018. CARRIED Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services Commission Regular Meeting Minutes – July 9, 2015 Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services Commission Regular Minutes Page 5 of 6 6.6 Ridge Canoe & Kayak Club Lease Ms. Wendy McCormick reviewed the staff report and a discussion followed. Commission members were interested in knowing more about the club’s annual budget, future plans, their fundraising efforts and, to speak to their membership. Commissioner Boulton suggested contacting North Vancouver Parks who have a similar facility. As there were a number of questions raised, staff was asked to gather more details and bring this item back in September. In addition, the Club is to be invited to attend as a delegation. R15-055 It was moved and seconded That a recommendation be forwarded to Maple Ridge Council that the Corporate Officer be authorized to sign and seal the Ridge Canoe and Kayak Lease Agreement 2015-2020. DEFERRED 7. Discussion Items 7.1 Fees & Charges Policy Review Ms. Wendy McCormick spoke to the report which was brought back to Commission per the request at the June meeting for an update on the recent policy review that was undertaken. 8. Information Items 8.1 Arts Council Bylaw Amendment Ms. Yvonne Chui reviewed the staff report and changes being proposed by the Arts Council, to their Society’s bylaws. 8.2 Petition: Pickleball Court Mr. Geoff Mallory reported on the petition received from citizens who are interested in some additional Pickleball courts. A discussion followed and this item was referred back to staff to follow up with the petitioners. Staff was asked to complete a review of the existing inventory and research opportunities and identify possible impacts on the request to increase the Pickleball court inventory. 8.3 Whonnock Public Art – Verbal Update Ms. Yvonne Chui reported that through the Maple Ridge Public Art Steering Committee, Collabor8 Architecture + Design has been awarded the commission in the recent public art call for Whonnock Lake. Their proposal entitled, “BLOOM”, will be installed in the spring of 2016. The artist team will be working throughout the summer and fall to complete the first stage of the public art installation. The artists will engage the community about this public art project at various information/open house types of opportunities including the Business Improvement Association’s Summer Market & Haney Farmers Market on July 25 and later at Whonnock Lake in the fall. Details will be on the website in the near future. Ms. Chui then showed a few slides illustrating the art project. Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services Commission Regular Meeting Minutes – July 9, 2015 Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Parks & Leisure Services Commission Regular Minutes Page 6 of 6 8.4 Caribbean Festival Letter – Funding Request Ms. Yvonne Chui reported that upon receipt of this letter, staff met with the organizers of this event to review their specific challenges and found that they still have a number of unknowns, such as a Gaming Grant Application that is still pending. They may need to access their contingency fund to cover the shortfalls they are anticipating, as well as unexpected expenses. At this time, the association is hoping that these funds will be sufficient but due to the uncertainty they face with this first year of relocation, they have submitted this request to Commission for consideration. Following a discussion, the Commission has referred this matter back to the Festival Sub-Committee for review and a recommendation. 9. Commission Liaison Reports – Nil 10. Staff Liaison Reports 10.1 Ms. Wendy McCormick: Staff have received verbal confirmation that we were successful in our application for the disability grant of $50,000 toward our pool upgrade; we expect to receive letter of confirmation any day. 10.2 Mr. David Boag: Signs have been posted in parks advising that smoking is not permitted in parks as a result of the significant risk of fire. It is not the department’s intention to issue tickets in this regard, as this is an attempt to raise the awareness level of fire risk with our parks patrons only. 11. Question Period – Nil 12. Motion to adjourn R15-056 It was moved and seconded That the Parks and Leisure Services Commission move into a Closed Meeting pursuant to 242(c) labour relations or employee negotiations; and (j) information that is prohibited or information that if it were presented in a document would be prohibited from disclosure under section 21 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. CARRIED The regular meeting adjourned at 9:10 pm. ________________________________ Nicole Read, Chairperson /ik City of Maple Ridge SOCIAL PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE REGULAR MEETING The Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Social Planning Advisory Committee, held in the Fraser Room of the Maple Ridge Public Library, 22470 Dewdney Trunk Road on Wednesday,June 3, 2015 at 7:00 pm. COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT Pierre Welbedagt Member at Large Steven Lamothe, Chair Ministry of Social Development & Social Innovation Councillor Bob Masse Council Liaison Mana Bayanzadeh Fraser Health Delaram Farshad Fraser Health Korleen Carreras School District #42 Trustee Annette Morgan Seniors Network Jassy Maghera Family Education & Support Centre Sgt. Brenda Gresiuk RCMP Kathy Doull Executive Director,Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Health Services & Ridge Meadows Hospital (Fraser Health) Colene Thompson Chair, Community Network Candace Gordon Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows-Katzie Community Network Stephanie Ediger Poverty Alleviation Jassy Maghera Family Education and Support Centre Bob Daley Member at Large Ineke Boekhorst, Vice-Chair Downtown BIA / Friends in Need STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT Sunny Schiller Committee Clerk Shawn Matthewson Social Planning Coordinator / Staff Liaison Sue Wheeler Director of Community Services Kelly Swift General Manager, Community Development, Parks & Rec Services REGRETS/ABSENTS Vicki Kipps Community Network Dr. Shovita Padhi Fraser Health Councillor Shymkiw Council Liaison Jenny Tan Member at Large –Youth Representative Josee Brazeau Community at Large Rajinder Kalra Community at Large Social Planning Advisory Committee Page 1 of 4 Regular Meeting of June 3, 2015 Social Planning Advisory Committee Regular Meeting Page 2 of 4 1.CALL TO ORDER AND INTRODUCTIONS There being a quorum present, the Chair called the meeting to order at 7:07 p.m. 2.AGENDA ADOPTION R15-015 It was moved and seconded That the Agenda for June 3, 2015 be adopted. CARRIED 3.MINUTE ADOPTION R15-016 It was moved and seconded That the Minutes of the May 6, 2015 Regular Meeting be adopted. CARRIED It was decided to deal with Item 5.1 as the next item of business. 5.NEW BUSINESS 5.1 SPAC Review –Committee Input -Kelly Swift, General Manager, Community Development, Parks & Rec Services The General Manager, Community Development, Parks & Rec Services provided an update on the review of Advisory Committees currently underway. Ms. Swift explained that the review committee has looked at the current SPAC membership and mandate. The review committee is proposing a change in organization that would involve having SPAC focus on high level work, with specific projects (ie youth strategy) being worked on by sub-committees. SPAC provided feedback on the proposed changes, including potential effects on productivity and the impact on volunteer time.Ms. Swift will bring the feedback collected from SPAC back to the review committee. Ineke Boekhorst entered at 7:12 pm. Kelly Swift left the meeting at 7:48 pm. 4.DELEGATIONS 4.1 Housing Action Plan -Implementation Plan Discussion –Siobhan Murphy The Planner provided the background of the development of the Housing Action Plan. Ms. Murphy explained the role of the municipality in regards to housing includes developing policy and regulations, identifying opportunities and building relationships.Ms. Murphy reviewed some of the specific actions recommended in the plan and explained how they are being implemented by the City. Regular Meeting of June 3, 2015 Social Planning Advisory Committee Regular Meeting Page 3 of 4 Actions identified in the Housing Action Plan have been sorted into short, medium and long term time frames.Ms. Murphy outlined specific short term actions that could be taken if the implementation framework is endorsed ,such as the development of zoning to allow different types of housing, changing regulations regarding secondary suites, and providing information on affordable housing on the city website.Ms. Murphy answered questions from the committee regarding the plan. 5.2 Provincial Response to 2014 UBCM Resolutions submitted by City of Maple Ridge Printed copies of the report of the provincial response to the 2014 UBCM resolutions were provided. The Director of Community Services provided an overview of the responses. 5.3 Age Friendly Initiative Forum -June 10th Mana Bayanzadeh reported that the $20,000 grant received by Maple Ridge (and Pitt Meadows) has allowed the establishment of an age friendly working group. A conversation on Age Friendly Communities will be held on June 10th.The discussion will be led by Dr. Elaine Gallagher, director of the age-friendly implementation team. Surveys are being prepared for those who are unable to attend the forum. Two smaller events are planned for September. Committee members were asked to communication the forum to their networks. The overall goal is for Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows is to obtain the Age Friendly designation. 5.4 Release of BC Senior's Advocates' Report on Seniors Housing in BC Annette Morgan reported favorably on the recent release of the report on seniors housing by the Senior’s Advocate. The report includes 18 recommendations to improve housing for seniors,including changes to the senior’s subsidy program,and an expense deferral program. The report is available on the seniors advocate website. 6.UNFINISHED BUSINESS 6.1 Mayor’s Task Force on Homeless Solutions Update: Councillor Masse updated the committee that the Mayor’s Task Force on Homeless Solutions has been renamed the Maple Ridge Resilience Initiative.The organization includes a standards enforcement team, a team to connect those in need with services, and a kid’s team.A public briefing was held on May 28, 2015 and a video of the briefing is available on the city website. A Facebook page has been setup to share current information related to the work of the Initiative. Councillor Masse reported a discussion regarding Riverview is coming up in early June. 6.2 Iron Horse Youth Services Update Stephanie Ediger reported that Iron Horse is operating as a day program seven days a week as a result of a one time grant obtained from the provincial government.Ms. Ediger reported the community has really stepped up to support Iron Horse. The organization continues to work to obtain sustainable funding. Regular Meeting of June 3, 2015 Social Planning Advisory Committee Regular Meeting Page 4 of 4 6.3 Committee July Meeting Date -discussion As the next regularly scheduled meeting falls on Canada Day it was decided to hold the next meeting on July 8th. 7.COMMITTEE UPDATES 7.1 Community Network The Director of Community Services notified members of the upcoming meeting of the Community Network and encouraged members to attend. 7.2 Neighbourhood Development Sue Wheeler announced that the Intergenerational Garden has received a $12,000 provincial grant. National Aboriginal Day will be celebrated in Memorial Peace Park on June 21. Canada Day will also be celebrated in the Peace Park from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm on July 1.Street musicians have been added to the lineup for this year’s event. Neighbourhood Development has been working with Allouette Home Start and area neighbours to organize a movie night at Nokai Park. 8.CORRESPONDENCE -Nil 9.COMMUNITY FORUM -Nil 10.ROUNDTABLE 11.ADJOURNMENT It was moved and seconded that the meeting be adjourned at 9:03 pm. /ss City of Maple Ridge SOCIAL PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES The Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Social Planning Advisory Committee, held in the Blaney Room, at Maple Ridge City Hall,11995 Haney Place,Maple Ridge, British Columbia,on Wednesday, September 9, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESENT Steven Lamothe, Chair Ministry of Social Development & Social Innovation Councillor Bob Masse Council Liaison Delaram Farshad Fraser Health Korleen Carreras School District #42 Trustee Annette Morgan Seniors Network Sgt. Brenda Gresiuk RCMP Candace Gordon Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows-Katzie Community Network Bob Daley Member at Large Ineke Boekhorst Downtown BIA / Friends in Need Vicki Kipps Community Network Councillor Shymkiw Council Liaison Jenny Tan Member at Large –Youth Representative Josee Brazeau Community at Large GUESTS Nimret Rai Environmental Health Officer,Fraser Health STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT Sunny Schiller Committee Clerk Sue Wheeler Staff Liaison /Director of Community Services Tony Cotroneo Recreation Manager Youth, Seniors and Neighbourhood Services Meghan MacMillan Youth Services Programmer REGRETS/ABSENTS Dr.Shovita Padhi Fraser Health Pierre Welbedagt Member at Large Jassy Maghera Family Education & Support Centre Kathy Doull Executive Director,Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows Health Services & Ridge Meadows Hospital (Fraser Health) Stephanie Ediger, Vice-Chair Poverty Alleviation Rajinder Kalra Community at Large John Heffernan Ridge Meadows Association for Community Living SPAC Minutes September 9, 2015 Page 2 of 4 1.CALL TO ORDER AND INTRODUCTIONS There being a quorum present, the Chair called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.and introductions were made. 2.AGENDA ADOPTION R15-017 It was moved and seconded That the Agenda for be amended to switch Items 6.1 and 6.2 and be adopted as amended. CARRIED 3.MINUTE ADOPTION R15-018 It was moved and seconded That the Minutes of June 3, 2015 be adopted. CARRIED 4.DELEGATIONS 4.1 “My Health My Community” report –Delaram Farshad, Healthy Communities Coordinator,Fraser Health Ms.Delaram Farshad presented results from the My Health My Community survey. This online survey was designed to collect local level data with the goal of improving the health and wellness of communities.Results for the Maple Ridge Local Health Area were reported for areas such as health habits and community features. Next steps include regional in depth analyses of key community health issues and the production of an interactive online atlas.For more information on the survey visit: www.myhealthmycommunity.org Ineke Boekhorst entered the meeting at 7:09 p.m. 5.NEW BUSINESS 5.1 Federal Homelessness Partnership Strategy (HPS) Housing First Readiness Response to Call for Proposals –Update The Staff Liaison provided a brief update on an application made during the summer in response to a call for applications for Housing First dollars available for communities that have not previously received funds.These funds are intended to allow municipalities to develop their capacity to provide housing first services. Fourteen partners developed and submitted a proposal at the end of August.A response is expected in October. The Staff Liaison thanked those committee members that participated in the application process for their efforts. SPAC Minutes September 9, 2015 Page 3 of 4 5.2 Youth Strategy Planning –Update The Youth Services Programmer provided an update on the City of Maple Ridge’s youth strategy planning.Staff has explored the possibility of a partnership with Valley Youth Partnership for Engagement and Respect (VYPER).The philosophies of VYPER and of Youth Services align,as both groups focus on ideas and plans that come from youth.The Youth Services Programmer explained the VYPER granting process and that the grant funds could be used to hire a consultant to work on the development of a youth strategy. VYPER will be meeting with community groups in the fall. The Staff Liaison reported that this model has been very successful in other municipalities. Meghan MacMillan left the meeting at 8:14 p.m. 6.UNFINISHED BUSINESS 6.1 Age Friendly Communities Forum Update The Staff Liaison provided an update on the Age Friendly Initiative. The Community Network is the community partner for this process. As a result of a recent community forum five key topic areas haven be identified. Annette Morgan reported the forum was well attended and participants were very engaged. The next steps include a community forum in October, a presentation to Council in November and a final report to UBCM in December. Once an Age Friendly Plan is in place the City can receive the “Age Friendly” designation from the provincial government. Tony Cotroneo left the meeting at 8:25 p.m. 6.2 Housing Action Plan (HAP)–Implementation Framework Update The Staff Liaison reported that the implementation framework for the Housing Action Plan was presented to Council during July. A second presentation to provide more information will be made to Council next week. 6.2.1 HAP Situational Report: Housing and Population Data Update An updated report will be released Friday, September 11, 2015. 6.3 Maple Ridge Resilience Initiative Update Councillor Masse provided an update on the work of the Resilience Initiative. Approximately 40 people have been housed to date. Decampment planning is underway.The City has been working with Fraser Health to ensure a smooth transition of services. A temporary shelter will be opened in early October.Access to housing and ability to move people along the continuum continue to be challenges. SPAC Minutes September 9, 2015 Page 4 of 4 7.COMMITTEE UPDATES 7.1 Community Network Vicki Kipps reported the Community Network (CN)is happy to be back to work after the summer holiday. The CN is working with School District 42 on initiatives for local schools and is developing an awareness campaign in regards to ending violence in relationships. Breakfast programs and brown bag lunch programs are ramping up. Alisa’s Wish –a local trauma centre for child victims of assault –has generated interest from municipalities in the area. The Community Chest group has been meeting and planning for the upcoming year. 7.2 Neighbourhood Development The Staff Liaison reported that a neighbourhood event is being planned for Cliff Avenue.A public presentation will be made in the fall by Jim Diers, who is world renowned for his work in support of connected and engaged neighbourhoods. 8.CORRESPONDENCE -Nil 9.QUESTION PERIOD 10.ROUNDTABLE The Chair reported on the very successful summer neighbourhood barbeque hosted by Allouette Addictions. Over 200 community members attended the event at Nokai Park. 11.ADJOURNMENT It was moved and seconded that the meeting be adjourned at 9:05 pm. /ss City of Maple Ridge TO: Her Worship Mayor Nicole Read MEETING DATE: October 19, 2015 and Members of Council FILE NO: FROM: Chief Administrative Officer MEETING: Workshop SUBJECT: Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: Council has indicated interest in establishing a community amenity program to help fund needed amenities throughout the municipality. Lessons learned through the establishment of the Albion Area Plan Density Bonus Framework and from legal advice have provided a number of general principles that the components of an amenity program should reflect. The report outlines a recommended framework for a community amenity program as well as alternatives to the recommendation for each of the component parts, attached as Appendix A in the Decision Table. Council decisions on the items presented in the table will be used to form the Community Amenity Program. Following determination of the program components, the preferred implementation tool identified by Council will be prepared. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1.THAT the Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program Decision Table, attached as Appendix A to the report titled Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program, dated October 19, 2015, be used as the method to determine, by resolution, the components of a community amenity program; and 2.THAT following the determination of the components of a community amenity program, staff be directed to prepare the necessary policies and/or bylaws for approval. DISCUSSION: a)Background Context: At the June 15, 2015 Workshop, Council received a report that provided a general overview of the legislative authority for density bonuses and community amenity contributions, a brief overview of the Albion Area Plan density bonus framework, the Amenity Zoning: Analysis and Options report prepared by CitySpaces and three options for Council’s discussion. At that time, a follow-up report was requested for a program that would include the necessary policy and regulatory changes and the process that would be followed to undertake that work. Provincial Legislation Part 26, Section 904 of the Local Government Act outlines the conditions and ways in which the owner of a property may be permitted a higher density on their property: 5.1 [2] Zoning for amenities and affordable housing 904 (1) A zoning bylaw may (a) establish different density regulations for a zone, one generally applicable for the zone and the other or others to apply if the applicable conditions under paragraph (b) are met, and (b) establish conditions in accordance with subsection (2) that will entitle an owner to a higher density under paragraph (a). (2) The following are conditions that may be included under subsection (1) (b): (a) conditions relating to the conservation or provision of amenities, including the number, kind and extent of amenities; (b) conditions relating to the provision of affordable and special needs housing, as such housing is defined in the bylaw, including the number, kind and extent of the housing; (c) a condition that the owner enter into a housing agreement under section 905 before a building permit is issued in relation to property to which the condition applies. (3) A zoning bylaw may designate an area within a zone for affordable or special needs housing, as such housing is defined in the bylaw, if the owners of the property covered by the designation consent to the designation. Prior legal advice on collecting community amenity contributions has outlined the following general ‘principles’ regarding amenity contributions: a) A municipality has the authority to adopt density bonus bylaws and establish conditions under which the density bonus is applied, including the payment of cash contributions; b) Density bonuses are the most defensible approach should the required amenity contribution be challenged on it’s legal basis; c) A community amenity contribution should be clearly tied to the impacts that is expected to result from a zoning change; d) A community amenity program should be based on a ‘robust’ policy basis, rather than on a simple decision of Council; and e) Establishing a contribution that is based on the amount of the increase in lot value could provide a more equitable basis for the amenity program. f) A site-by-site negotiated approach does not provide the clarity and consistency of application of the program that the development industry needs as well as potentially adding a significant amount of time to the development approvals process. Amenity Zoning: Analysis and Options Report CitySpaces Consulting was hired to prepare the Amenity Zoning: Analysis and Options report which was presented to Council in November 2012. That report provides an overview of the two commonly-used approaches for amenity zoning in British Columbia, density bonuses and community amenity contributions. This report was also attached to the June 15, 2015 staff report. The report included a quick summary of the approaches in use across the region in 2012, in the following table: [3] The table shows that many municipalities use more than one approach for obtaining amenities through the development approval process. The CitySpaces report also provides an explanation of ‘land lift value’ as it applies to development. ‘Lift’ can be described as being the difference between the assessed land value before development and the projected (or assessed) value of the land after development, based on an increase in density on the site beyond what the original zoning would permit. The following diagram helps to further explain this idea. [4] Regional Examples: i. Vancouver The City of Vancouver uses a negotiated approach, based on four steps, to help fund community amenities. The following diagram is taken from the City of Vancouver brochure titled Rezoning & Community Amenity Contributions: Negotiating for a more Livable City. [5] In addition to a negotiated approach, Vancouver also uses set targets for amenity contributions, based on a specific form of residential development. ii. Surrey The City of Surrey also uses a number of methods for collecting community amenity contributions. As part of the preparation of a neighbourhood concept plan (NCP), which is similar in scope to an area plan in Maple Ridge, they identify the needed amenities through the process and determine the contribution requirements to achieve those amenities, expressed as a value per unit cost. Once the NCP is approved, the amenity contribution requirements are adopted into the City’s Zoning Bylaw. The City of Surrey Zoning Bylaw also enables the amenity contribution rates to be adjusted annually, based on Vancouver’s Annual Average Consumer Price Index for the preceding year. b) Strategic Alignment: In June 2015, Council initiated the community amenity contribution discussions as part of the “Finding the Money” Council Workplan theme. This report provides a recommended structure for a community amenity program as well as a series of alternatives for each program component, attached as Appendix A. c) Policy Implications: Chapter 2 Growth Management of the Official Community Plan includes the following three policies that establish the community amenity program. They set out the broad framework for Council to consider how density bonuses and amenity contributions will be applied, including through all OCP and Zoning Bylaw amending applications. 2-7 Maple Ridge will establish a Community Amenity Program, within areas of the [City] where Council determines that Density Bonuses and Community Amenity Contributions will be applied, to provide amenities in a sustainable and economically viable manner. 2-8 The Community Amenity Program will be integrated into the Maple Ridge Zoning Bylaw to identify the conditions under which Density Bonuses will apply. 2-9 Density Bonuses and Amenity Contributions may be considered at Council’s discretions for all Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw amending applications to help provide a variety of amenities and facilities throughout the municipality. The Albion Area Plan includes five policies in Chapter 10.2, that provide detailed direction for density bonuses and community amenity contributions within the area plan boundaries. d) Community Amenity Contribution Program Elements Council has indicated interest in establishing a Community Amenity Contribution program. In doing so, the legal advice received and the lessons learned during the Albion Area discussions suggest that the components of a community amenity program needs to be:  Based on a robust policy and regulatory framework;  Applied consistently in each situation; and  Reflective of the impacts of the development on surrounding municipal amenities. [6] Based on these lessons, the following is a summary of the recommended components of a community amenity program, further explained in Appendix A: 1. Contribution approach 2. Geographic Area 3. Albion Density Bonus Framework 4. Application of Program 5. Tools to Establish the Program 6. In-stream Applications 7. Reserve Fund e) Process The establishment of a community amenity contribution program is a complex process, given the number of components required to create a comprehensive and robust program. In recognition of this aspect, a decision table has been created (Appendix A) to assist Council. The table identifies the various components, options and comments for each component and highlights the staff recommendation. Each Council decision, in the form of a Resolution, will determine the framework of the community amenity contribution program. Following Council’s decisions on the preferred components of a community amenity program, the implementation tool identified by Council (policy and/or bylaws) will be prepared along with a report outlining the potential amenities that could be included in the Reserve Fund bylaw. If Council supports establishing Reserve Funds for each area plan area, a process for determining what the desired amenities in the Town Centre and Silver Valley would be included in that report. f) Citizen/Customer Implications: When considering a change in Official Community Plan policy or Zoning Bylaw Regulations, the generally accepted practice for in-stream development applications is that those applications that have been presented at Public Hearing and received Third Reading would be exempt from complying with the new policies or regulations. g) Interdepartmental Implications: Following Council’s decision on the components of a CAC Program staff from various departments, including but not limited to Finance, Strategic Economic Initiatives, Engineering and Parks and Leisure Services Departments will be engaged in the preparation and review of the policy and regulatory framework and associated bylaws. h) Business Plan/Financial Implications: If Council prefers one CAC rate to apply for all included developments, it is recommended that the amount/rate be reflective of the land lift value. An economic financial analysis is the most robust and defensible approach to calculate that rate. Such analysis would require a budget allocation not to exceed $20,000. Alternatively, the Amenity Zoning report prepared by CitySpaces and GP Rollo & Associates included an economic analysis for the Albion Area. Their recommended rate per dwelling unit was $5100. This rate could be used as the basis for the community amenity program. [7] i) Alternatives: The attached Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program Decision Table (Appendix A) outlines alternatives to the recommended program elements for Council’s discussion. CONCLUSIONS: The lessons learned through the establishment of the Albion Area Plan Density Bonus Framework and from recent legal advice provide a number of general principles that the components of an amenity program should incorporate. The recommended components of a community amen ity program identified on the attached Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program Decision Table (Appendix A) are felt to achieve the general principles of a consistent and equitable framework. Once the preferred component options are selected by Council, staff will begin to draft the final community amenity program, based on the implementation tool identified. A subsequent report will also be prepared on the options for the amenity Reserve Fund bylaw(s) that will include the potential benefiting amenities to be included. “Original signed by Jim Charlebois” _______________________________________________ Prepared by: Jim Charlebois, MURP, MCIP, RPP Manager of Community Planning “Original signed by Christine Carter” _______________________________________________ Approved by: Christine Carter, M.PL., MCIP, RPP Director of Planning “Original signed by Frank Quinn” _______________________________________________ Approved by: Frank Quinn, MBA, P.Eng GM: Public Works & Development Services “Original signed by Frank Quinn” _______________________________________________ Concurrence: Frank Quinn, Acting Chief Administrative Officer Appendix A: Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program Decision Table Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program Decision Table The following table provides a series of options to be used as a tool for Council to determine the components of a Community Amenity Program. Amenity Program Component Options Comments Recommendation Council Resolution 1.Contribution Approach – how the amenity contribution be calculated. a)Percentage Value of Lift – the increase in land value based on the proposed development density Can be clearly attributed to type and density of the development; Equitable – the range of % value would be established but the contribution to be based on the assessed value Approach in use across the Lower Mainland  a)THAT a percentage value of lift be applied as the contribution approach for the community amenity program. b)Density Bonus – additional density beyond what is permitted in the OCP Density Bonuses allowed in S. 904 of Local Government Act most defensible to a legal challenge Existing density bonus provisions in the Zoning Bylaw could be amended to reflect original amount recommended by the GP Rollo and Associates. Options: i.Apply the current density bonus rate of $3100 per lot in the Albion Area ii.Increase the density bonus rate to $5100 per lot as originally recommended for the Albion Area by GP Rollo and Associates iii.Establish a new density bonus rate as identified by Council b)THAT a density bonus program be established incorporating a rate of $____ per lot. c)Flat Rate – one rate for all residential development in the City Not permitted under the Local Government Act Least equitable to developers Lack of clear basis for CAC based on the type and density of the development Options: i.Albion Density Bonus rate of $3100 per lot ii.Original recommended density bonus rate by GP Rollo & Associates of $5100 pert lot iii.Other rate as identified by Council c)THAT a flat rate per dwelling unit/lot of $____ be applied as the contribution approach for a community amenity program. 2.Geographic Area – in what part of the City will the program be applied? a)City-wide Program would be applied city-wide with the exception of the Town Centre Area Plan area  a)THAT the contribution approach identified in category 1 of the Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program Decision Table be applied city-wide. b)Specific areas – such as the area plan areas Council to identify which areas of the city where the community amenity program will be applied. b)THAT the contribution approach identified in category 1 of the Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program Decision Table be applied in the following areas: __________ 3.Albion Density Bonus Framework – how should the existing Albion framework be incorporated? a)Keep Options: i.Retain the current density bonus amount of $3100 per lot within the Albion Area ii.Apply the contribution approach as determined in Category 1 within the Albion Area iii.Apply the contribution approach as determined in Category 1 and retain the current density bonus amount of $3100 per lot within the Albion Area  a)THAT the Albion Density Bonus Framework be maintained in the Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw and the amenity contribution rate be set at $____ per lot. b)Repeal Repeal the OCP and Zoning Bylaw provisions for the Albion Area Plan Density Bonus Framework. b)THAT the OCP and Zoning Bylaw provisions for the Albion Density Bonus Framework be repealed. APPENDIX A Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program Decision Table Amenity Program Component Options Comments Recommendation Council Resolution 4. Application of Program – what housing forms and other land uses will be subject to the amenity contribution. a) Residential Building Forms: i. Single Family Exclude - EXCEPT when a development application proposes 3 or more NEW dwelling units/lots  a) i. THAT single family dwellings be included in the community amenity program for development applications containing 3 or more new residential lots. ii. Duplex Exclude - EXCEPT when a development application proposes more than 1 building  ii. THAT duplex dwellings be included in the community amenity program for development applications containing 2 or more new residential buildings. iii. Triplex Exclude - EXCEPT when a development application proposes more than 1 building  iii. THAT triplex dwellings be included in the community amenity program for development applications containing more than 1 new residential building. iv. Fourplex Include  iv. THAT fourplex buildings are included in the community amenity program. v. Townhouse (including Street Townhouses, Row Houses and Stacked Townhouses) Include  v. THAT townhouses buildings of all forms are included in the community amenity program. vi. Apartment building Include  vi. THAT apartment buildings are included in the community amenity program. vii. Rental Apartment unit, special needs and affordable housing units Exclude all rental apartment units that are secured rental through a Housing Agreement and all special needs and affordable housing units.  vii. THAT all rental apartment units, secured through a housing agreement and all special needs and affordable housing be exempt from the community amenity program. b) Employment Lands: i. Commercial  Exclude commercial developments  Include residential dwelling units in mixed-use developments  Exclude rental housing units in mixed-use developments when they are secured as rental housing through a housing agreement  b) i. THAT commercial developments are exempt from the community amenity program, except where residential dwelling units are included in a mixed-use development. Where rental housing units are included in and are secured as rental housing by a housing agreement, and where special needs and affordable housing units within the development, those dwelling units will be exempt from the community amenity program Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program Decision Table Amenity Program Component Options Comments Recommendation Council Resolution 4. (Continued) ii. Industrial Exclude  ii. THAT industrial land uses are exempt from the community amenity program 5. Tools to Establish the Program – the regulatory approach for establishing the Amenity Program. a) OCP Policy Establish the community amenity program in the Official Community Plan  Would provide a robust policy framework  Would require a Public Hearing  THAT an Official Community Plan amending bylaw be prepared that includes the components of the community amenity program as established by the Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program Decision Table. b) Council Policy A Council Policy could be approved to establish the community amenity program  Amenity Program established in policy but not included in the OCP  A Public Hearing is not required THAT the community amenity program be established through a Council Policy. c) Council Resolution Council could pass a resolution establishing the community amenity program  No policy framework established  A Public Hearing is not required THAT the community amenity program be established by Council Resolution 6. In-stream Applications a) All in-stream applications subject to community amenity program All applications subject to the community amenity program a) THAT all residential development applications be subject to the community amenity program. b) All in-stream applications subject to community amenity program except those that have received third reading of the Official Community Plan and/or zone amending bylaw(s) Official Community Plan and Zone Amending bylaws that have received third would be exempt from the amenity program  b) THAT in-stream applications be subject to the community amenity program as established by the Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program Decision Table, except those that have received third reading of the Official Community Plan and/or zone amending bylaw(s) 7. Reserve Fund – Potential Amenities Range of options available A follow up report would be prepared outlining options for those amenities that could be including in the Reserve Fund Bylaw(s).  THAT a follow up report on the components of a Reserve Fund bylaw be prepared and presented to Council for consideration at a future meeting. City of Maple Ridge TO: Her Worship Mayor Nicole Read MEETING DATE: October 19, 2015 and Members of Council FILE NO: FROM: Chief Administrative Officer MEETING: Workshop SUBJECT: Sale of Municipal Property – 280 Street Roadway (28000 block of 96 Avenue) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: A decommissioned portion of 280 Street is located between 27957 and 28045 - 96 Avenue in East Maple Ridge and is adjacent to four, privately-owned residential properties. This portion was effectively decommissioned when 280 Street was re-aligned a number of years ago and it currently remains open to all motor vehicle traffic, despite it only serving to provide access to one of the four residential properties. The property located at 28045 - 96 Avenue is quite unique in that it is home to one of the remaining few groves of American Chestnut trees, a native species which is virtually extinct in North America, having died off over the past 100 years due to a rare tree fungus. The owner of this particular property has initiated the request for the City to consider the formal closure and sale of the road, such that he can construct a driveway to access a proposed residential building on the site without disturbing these unique tree specimens. All of the other affected properties are in support of the request and each would ultimately own a portion of the newly-created land parcel. There are no in-ground water or sewer services that run through the roadway, nor any public utilities. The roadway currently serves no practical purpose other than providing secondary motor vehicle access to the adjacent properties. As is, the decommissioned roadway has become a prime location for late night gatherings and the dumping of garbage. Council’s concurrence with the sale of the roadway property would result in the following next steps: •Removal of the existing roadway dedication through passage of a Highway Closure and Dedication Removal Bylaw. •Disposal (sale) of the resultant property(s) as permitted under the Community Charter, and as per the conditions imposed by the City. RECOMMENDATION(S): That staff be directed to commence the process for the sale of the decommissioned portion of 280 Street (28000 block of 96 Avenue) roadway including the preparation of a Highway Closure and Dedication Removal Bylaw and upon approval of same, the subdivision and disposition process of the resulting land parcels. 1 | Page 5.3 DISCUSSION: a) Background Context: In evaluation of the road closure request, the City advised that the primary proponent (28045 - 96 Avenue) for the road closure would be required to undertake the following steps: • All the owners of the properties adjacent to the road (the prospective buyers) must agree in writing to the conditions and any other required terms by the City and/or any other governmental agencies for the closure. • The four prospective buyers will arrange for and bear the costs of: - all survey, legal and conveyancing work - an appraisal conducted by a qualified, independent appraiser, to determine market value of the portion of road to be closed, based on highest and best use of the land - a $500.00 administration fee for staff time related to the preparation of and reporting to Council for approval of a road closure and highway dedication removal bylaw. The final terms of the sale of the closed portion of road to the prospective buyers and adoption of the road closure and highway dedication removal bylaw are subject to Council approval and approval from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. The attached advisory from the Government of British Columbia, titled “Highway Closure and Removal of Highway Dedication”, (Appendix B) describes the process as required under the Community Charter. Upon approval of the above recommendation, staff will prepare the Highway Closure and Road Dedication Removal Bylaw for presentation to Council. Note that persons affected by the bylaw will be given an opportunity to submit written responses to the Corporate Officer for Council consideration before final reading. Operators of utilities would not be affected by the closure and no property owner will be deprived of lawful access to his or her property. The closed portion of highway will be subdivided into four legal residential lots, with these subsequently disposed of as per the provisions contained within the Community Charter and then consolidated into the existing/adjacent residential properties. b) Interdepartmental Implications: The Planning, Engineering and Fire Departments support the sale and permanent closure of this decommissioned portion of 280 Street. “Original signed by Darrell Denton”_____________________ Prepared by: Darrell Denton Property & Risk Manager (additional signatures to follow this page) 2 | Page “Original signed by David Pollock” ___________________ Approved by: David Pollock, P.Eng Municipal Engineer “Original signed by Paul Gill”_________________________ Approved by: Paul Gill, BBA, CGA General Manager – Corporate & Financial Services “Original signed by Frank Quinn”_______________________ Concurrence: Frank Quinn, MBA, P.Eng, General Manager, Public Works and Development Services Acting Chief Administrative Officer Appendix A: Map Identifying Decommissioned Portion of 280 Street Appendix B: Government of BC – Advisory - Highway Closure & Removal of Highway Dedication 3 | Page Appendix A: Map of Decommissioned Portion of 280 Street 4 | Page Appendix B: Government of British Columbia Advisory - Highway Closure & Removal of Highway Dedication Prior to the Community Charter municipalities had right of possession of local highways but ownership was in the name of the province. The Community Charter gives municipalities ownership of most municipal highways (exceptions are listed in s. 35(2)). Municipalities also have authority to regulate and prohibit in relation to highways, (subject to provincial legislation) and the authority to close highways. Since municipalities now own local highways (subject to the provincial right of resumption), provisions have been established if a municipality wants to use a portion of the highway for a different purpose, or if it wants to dispose of it. All of these provisions can be found in Part 3, Division 5 of the Community Charter. What Is Required 1. Highway Closure and Removal of Highway Dedication Municipalities can close a highway and remove its highway dedication by bylaw. These actions can be done either in one bylaw, or by separate bylaws. The bylaw(s) must include a reference plan or explanatory plan outlining the portion of road that will be affected. If done separately, the bylaws can be passed concurrently, or at different times. Prior to adopting a highway closure bylaw, a municipality must: • provide public notice in accordance with section 94; • provide an opportunity for persons who are affected by the bylaw to make representations to council; • deliver notice of its intention to close a highway to operators of utilities whose works council considers will be affected by the closure. The operator of a utility affected by a closure may require the municipality to provide reasonable accommodation of the utility’s works. If the municipality and utility are unable to reach an agreement the matter may be settled by arbitration under the Commercial Arbitration Act; • ensure that a proposed highway closure does not completely deprive an owner of access to his/her property unless the municipality receives consent from the property owner or compensates the owner and provides alternative access; • refer any highway closure bylaws to the Minister of Transportation (through the local Ministry of Transportation District office) for approval where the proposed highway closure is within 800 metres of an arterial highway (note that specified District staff may grant such approval on behalf of the Minister of Transportation). Prior to adopting a highway dedication removal bylaw, a municipality must: • provide public notice in accordance with section 94; • provide an opportunity for persons who are affected by the bylaw to make representations to council; • obtain consent of the owner of property if the highway in question is part of a subdivision, where the highway has not been developed and the owner of the land who created the subdivision continues to own all the parcels. Circumstances in which these conditions apply are rare. 2. Raising Title Once the highway closure bylaw and removal of highway dedication bylaw are adopted, and the removal of highway dedication bylaw is filed in the appropriate Land Title Office, the property ceases to be a highway, its dedication as a highway is cancelled and title to the property will be registered in the name of the municipality, in accordance with section 120 of the Land Title Act. In order for title to be raised in the name of the municipality, the Land Title Office requires that municipalities submit the bylaw and plan package to the registrar, together with an application in Form 17, a Property Transfer Tax form and the prescribed fee. As raising title and disposing of the land may occur in close conjunction, note also the Land Title Office filing requirements discussed under Disposing of Property. 3. Disposing of Property Once title is raised, municipalities who want to dispose of the property must do so in accordance with the property disposal rules set out in Part 3, Division 3 of the Community Charter. If a municipality plans to dispose of property for a closed highway that removes public access to a body of water, it must either provide 5 | Page alternative public access to the same body of water, or set aside money in a reserve fund to acquire property that will provide public access to the same body of water. The Community Charter provides a provincial right to resume property that was once a highway for the purpose of: an arterial highway; other transportation purposes; or a park, conservancy, recreation area, ecological reserve or other area established under the Park Act, the Ecological Reserve Act, the Protected Areas of British Columbia Act or the Environment and Land Use Act. The right of resumption can be removed by order of the Minister of Transportation. Alternatively, the Minister of Transportation can by regulation set out the circumstances in which the right is automatically removed. The Minister of Transportation has adopted a regulation (BC Reg 245/2004 (12 KB)) that provides that the right of resumption is automatically removed if the corporate officer of the relevant municipality files with the Land Title Office a statement certifying the following 3 facts: • the municipality has, by bylaw, closed the highway and removed its dedication; • the closed highway is not adjacent to a park, conservancy, recreation area, ecological reserve or other area established under the Park Act, the Ecological Reserve Act, the Protected Areas of British Columbia Act or the Environment and Land Use Act; and • the closed highway land is to be disposed of for either of the following two purposes: o in exchange for land necessary for the purpose of improving, widening, straightening, relocating or diverting a highway, or o to one or more adjacent land owners for the purpose of consolidating it with the landowners’ existing adjacent parcel or parcels of land. The certifying statement must be satisfactory to the Land Title Office. Typically, this means a written statement from the municipality that: identifies the closed highway land; states the 3 conditions in the regulation; certifies that the land at issue satisfies those conditions and therefore the right of resumption is to be removed; is signed by the corporate officer; and is accompanied by the prescribed Land Title Office fee. Under this regulation, if the closed highway land satisfies the regulation – in other words, if the corporate officer of the municipality can certify that the transaction meets the circumstances set out in the regulation – then the municipality does not need a specific order removing the right of resumption. Instead, the right of resumption is automatically removed on the date that the certifying statement is filed in the Land Title Office. As noted, the municipality is responsible for satisfying itself that the 3 conditions in the regulation are met. This means the municipality is responsible for confirming the boundaries of the road in question and, in relation to the second condition (parks/conservancy), is responsible for confirming those boundaries relative to the boundaries of provincial parks/conservancy. To assist in determining the location of a road relative to provincial parks/conservancy, a municipality can obtain a list of provincial parks/protected areas in its region from the appropriate regional office of the Ministry of Environment: Only if the municipality has confirmed that the road in question is in fact adjacent to a provincial park/conservancy would the municipality need to contact the Ministry of Environment regional planner to identify if there are any issues with the proposed disposal of the closed road. In that case, the matter would not be within the circumstances set out in the regulation. For any situations not covered by the regulation, a municipality will still need to seek a possible order from the Minister of Transportation to remove the right of resumption. 6 | Page 6.1