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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-01-11 Council Workshop Agenda and Reports.pdf City of Maple Ridge 1. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA 2. MINUTES 2.1 Minutes of Council Workshop Meetings • November 30, 2015 Special Council Workshop • December 4, 2015 Special Council Workshop • December 7, 2015 Council Workshop • December 10, 2015 Special Council Workshop • December 15, 2015 Special Council Workshop • December 17, 2015 Special Council Workshop 2.2 Minutes of Meetings of Committees and Commissions of Council • Nil 2.3 Business Arising from Committee and Commission Minutes COUNCIL WORKSHOP AGENDA January 11, 2016 10:00 a.m. PLEASE NOTE THE CHANGE IN TIME 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 January 11, 2016 Closed Council 12:00 noon Committee of the Whole Meeting 1:00 p.m. January 12, 2016 Council Meeting 7:00 p.m. Council Workshop Agenda January 11, 2016 Page 2 of 4 3. PRESENTATIONS AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCIL 4. MAYOR AND COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS 5. UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS 5.1 Parks Infrastructure Prioritization Process 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon Continuation of the December 17, 2015 Council discussion facilitated by Brian Johnston, Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants (“PERC”) 5.2 Agricultural Plan Questionnaire Results Staff report dated January 11, 2016 providing the results of an Agricultural Plan Questionnaire completed by Council. 5.3 2016 Committee and Commission Appointments To be circulated separately 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. 6.1 Upcoming Events February 1, 2016 5:30 p.m. BCEDA Minister’s Dinner – Coast Coal Harbour Hotel Organizer: BC Economic Development Association March 5, 2016 5:30 p.m. Gala Night – Maple Ridge Seniors Activity Centre Organizer: Ridge Meadows South Asian Cultural Society Council Workshop Agenda January 11, 2016 Page 3 of 4 7. BRIEFING ON OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST/QUESTIONS FROM COUNCIL 8. MATTERS DEEMED EXPEDIENT 9. ADJOURNMENT Checked by: ___________ Date: _________________ Council Workshop Agenda January 11, 2016 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 Meetings Minutes 2.1 City of Maple Ridge SPECIAL COUNCIL WORKSHOP MINUTES November 30, 2015 The Minutes of the City Council Workshop held on November 30, 2015 at 2:30 p.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 E.C. Swabey, Chief Administrative Officer Councillor C. Bell F. Quinn, General Manager Public Works and Councillor K. Duncan Development Services Councillor B. Masse 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 D. Denton, Property and Risk Manager C. Nolan, Manager of Accounting T. Thompson, Manager of Financial Planning L. Benson, Manager of Sustainability and Corporate Planning Note: These Minutes are posted on the City Web Site at www.mapleridge.ca 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA The agenda was approved as circulated. 3 UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS 3.1 Change of Supplier for City Property Insurance Staff report dated November 30, 2015 recommending that the award of the 2016 contract for property insurance, including property, crime and equipment breakdown to the Municipal Insurers Association of BC be approved. The Property and Risk Manager reviewed the report. Special Council Workshop Minutes December 4, 2015 Page 2 of 2 R/2016-500.1 It was moved and seconded That the awarding of the 2016 contract for property insurance, including property, crime and equipment breakdown to the Municipal Insurers Association of BC (MIABC) be approved. CARRIED 4. ADJOURNMENT – 2:45 p.m. _______________________________ N. Read, Mayor Certified Correct ___________________________________ C. Marlo, Corporate Officer City of Maple Ridge SPECIAL COUNCIL WORKSHOP MINUTES December 4, 2015 The Minutes of the City Council Workshop held on December 4, 2015 at 11:00 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 E.C. Swabey, Chief Administrative Officer Councillor C. Bell F. Quinn, General Manager Public Works and Councillor K. Duncan Development Services Councillor B. Masse 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 D. Spence, Fire Chief D. Pollock, Municipal Engineer D. Boag, Director of Parks and Facilities L. Benson, Manager of Sustainability and Corporate Planning Note: These Minutes are posted on the City Web Site at www.mapleridge.ca 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA 3 UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS 3.1 Review of Business Planning The Chief Administrative Officer gave a power point presentation providing an overview of the Business Planning sessions including: • Emerging Priorities • Recommendations Special Council Workshop Minutes December 4, 2015 Page 2 of 3 3.1.1 R/2015-523 It was moved and seconded That a dedicated meeting be scheduled for Council to review, prioritize and update the work plan items list. CARRIED 3.1.2 R/2015-524 It was moved and seconded That the list of incremental adjustments within the 2016-2020 Financial Plan be endorsed. R/2015-525 It was moved and seconded That the list of incremental adjustments within the 2016-2020 Financial Plan be amended to remove the Bear Proof Organics Totes Subsidy. AMENDMENT DEFEATED Mayor Read, Councillor Shymkiw, Councillor Duncan, Councillor Speirs, Councillor Masse – OPPOSED MOTION CARRIED 3.1.3 R/2015-526 It was moved and seconded That the Chief Administrative Officer be directed to review Customer Service issues and report back to Council. CARRIED 3.1.4 R/2015-527 It was moved and seconded That staff be directed to bring forward a Financial Plan Bylaw, incorporating the recommendations in the Financial Overview Report, for first and second readings. CARRIED Special Council Workshop Minutes December 4, 2015 Page 3 of 3 4. ADJOURNMENT – 12:12 p.m. _______________________________ N. Read, Mayor Certified Correct ___________________________________ C. Marlo, Corporate Officer City of Maple Ridge COUNCIL WORKSHOP MINUTES December 7, 2015 The Minutes of the City Council Workshop held on December 7, 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 E.C. Swabey, Chief Administrative Officer Councillor C. Bell K. Swift, General Manager of Community Development, Councillor K. Duncan Parks and Recreation Services Councillor B. Masse P. Gill, General Manager Corporate and Financial Services Councillor G Robson F. Quinn, General Manager Public Works and Development Councillor T. Shymkiw Services Councillor C. Speirs C. Marlo, Manager of Legislative Services Other Staff as Required J. Charlebois, Manager of Community Planning C. Carter, Director of Planning D. Hall, Planner 2 R. McNair, Director of Bylaws and Licences B. McLeod, Manager of Park Planning and Development Notes: These Minutes are posted on the City Web Site at www.mapleridge.ca Councillor Duncan and Councillor Masse were not in attendance at the start of the meeting. 1. ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA The agenda was adopted as circulated. 2. MINUTES 2.1 Minutes of the November 16, 2015 Council Workshop Meeting R/2015-528 It was moved and seconded That the minutes of the Council Workshop Meeting of November 16, 2015 be adopted as circulated. CARRIED Council Workshop Minutes December 7, 2015 Page 2 of 6 2.2 Minutes of Meetings of Committees and Commissions of Council • Agricultural Advisory Committee – October 22, 2015 • Community Heritage Commission – November 3, 2015 • Public Art Steering Committee – September 29, 2015 R/2015-529 It was moved and seconded That the minutes of the October 22, 2015 Agricultural Advisory Committee Meeting, the November 3, 2015 Community Heritage Commission Meeting and the September 29, 2015 Public Art Steering Committee Meeting be received. CARRIED 2.3 Business Arising from Committee Minutes – Nil 3. PRESENTATIONS AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCIL – Nil 4 MAYOR’S AND COUNCILLORS’ REPORTS Councillor Bell Councillor Bell attended her first UBCM meeting as President of LMLGA and was appointed to the Environment Committee and Community Economic Development Committee. She spoke of issues with speeding along Kanaka Way and suggested facilitating education awareness around Speed Watch volunteer opportunities. Note: Councillor Duncan joined the meeting at 9:09 a.m. Councillor Speirs Councillor Speirs met with the new Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development. He attended meetings of the Maple Ridge Community Heritage Commission and the Maple Ridge Agricultural Advisory Committee. Councillor Duncan Councillor Duncan attended the opening of Operation Red Nose, the screening of Red Light Green Light documentary and the Whonnock Weavers event. Council Workshop Minutes December 7, 2015 Page 3 of 6 Deputy Mayor Shymkiw Deputy Mayor Shymkiw attended meetings with the development community and residents. Councillor Robson Councillor Robson commented on concerns of the development community with the community amenity program. Mayor Read Mayor Read spoke to the Meadow Ridge Rotary Club, presented at the BC Affordable Housing Conference, accepted the NAIOP awards and visited a class at Pitt Meadows Secondary School to speak to their leadership program about homelessness. She met with executives of CUPE, attended the Pitt Meadows Airport Society Annual General Meeting and meetings of the Metro Vancouver Board and School District No. 42. Mayor Read also met with the Langley Environmental Protection Society and attended the Santa Claus Parade. 5. UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS 5.1 Maple Ridge Community Amenity Program Staff report dated December 7, 2015 recommending that feedback be obtained on Maple Ridge Official Community Plan Amending Bylaw No. 7188- 2015, a Council policy be drafted and a summary of input be provided in a future report. Note: Councillor Masse joined the meeting at 9:18 a.m. The Director of Planning provided background information on the proposed Community Amenity Program The Manager of Community Planning gave a PowerPoint presentation providing an overview of the staff report. R/2015-530 It was moved and seconded That staff be directed to obtain feedback on the Official Community Plan Amending Bylaw No. 7188-2015 and draft Council Policy and provide a summary of input to Council in a future report. CARRIED Councillor Robson, Councillor Shymkiw - OPPOSED Council Workshop Minutes December 7, 2015 Page 4 of 6 R/2015-531 It was moved and seconded That the agenda be revised to deal with Item 5.5 prior to Item 5.3. CARRIED 5.2 Crime Free Multi-Housing Program Staff report dated December 7, 2015 recommending that Maple Ridge Business Licencing and Regulation Bylaw No. 6815-2011 be amended to revise base licence fees for buildings certified under the Crime Free Multi- Housing Program. The Manager of Bylaw and Licencing Services reviewed the report. R/2015-532 It was moved and seconded That an amendment to the Business Licencing and Regulation Bylaw No. 6815-2011 be made to charge a base licence fee of $700 dollars plus $40 per unit for buildings that are not certified under the Crime Free Multi-housing Program and a base licence fee of $110 plus $10 per unit for buildings that are certified under the Crime Free Multi-housing Program and that the Program be reviewed in one year. CARRIED Note: Item 5.5 was dealt with prior to Item 5.3 5.3 Medical Marihuana Dispensaries Staff report dated December 7, 2015 providing information on the medical marihuana legislation, the legal history of dispensaries and implications for bylaw enforcement and presenting options for consideration. R/2015-533 It was moved and seconded That the report, titled Medical Marihuana Dispensaries, dated December 7, 2015, be received as information. CARRIED Council Workshop Minutes December 7, 2015 Page 5 of 6 5.4 Trail Infrastructure Presentation by the Director of Parks and Facilities The Manager of Park Planning and Development gave a PowerPoint presentation providing an overview of the trail infrastructure in Maple Ridge. He provided information on the current trail inventory and where trails fit within the Official Community Plan, a review of the 2016 Business Plan Trail Map Project and a status update on the Trail Signage Program. Note: Item 5.5 was dealt with prior to Item 5.3 5.5 Hospital Parking Discussion by Council Legal opinion dated June 5, 2013 from Young Anderson providing information on the City’s authority to regulation parking fees at the Ridge Meadows Hospital attached for reference. R/2015-534 It was moved and seconded That Mayor Read and Councillor Bell meet with the Ministry of Health to discuss options for improvements to hospital parking. CARRIED 6. CORRESPONDENCE 6.1 Upcoming Events Council discussed attendance at upcoming events. 7. BRIEFING ON OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST/QUESTIONS FROM COUNCIL 8. MATTERS DEEMED EXPEDIENT Council Workshop Minutes December 7, 2015 Page 6 of 6 9. ADJOURNMENT – 11:26 a.m. _______________________________ N. Read, Mayor Certified Correct ___________________________________ C. Marlo, Corporate Officer City of Maple Ridge SPECIAL COUNCIL WORKSHOP MINUTES December 10, 2015 The Minutes of the City Council Workshop held on December 10, 2015 at 11:00 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 E.C. Swabey, Chief Administrative Officer Councillor C. Bell K. Swift, General Manager, Community Development, Councillor K. Duncan Parks and Recreation Services Councillor B. Masse P. Gill, General Manager, Corporate and Financial Services Councillor G Robson F. Quinn, General Manager, Public Works and Development Councillor T. Shymkiw Services Councillor C. Speirs C. Marlo, Manager of Legislative Services Other Staff as Required D. Boag, Director, Parks and Facilities W. McCormick, Director, Recreation Note: These Minutes are posted on the City Web Site at www.mapleridge.ca 1.0 CALL TO ORDER 2.0 APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA The agenda was approved as circulated. 3.0 UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS 3.1 Leisure Centre Pool Renovations Contract Award Staff report dated December 7, 2015 recommending that the Corporate Officer be authorized to sign and execute Construction Contract ITT-PL15-67 with Mierau Contractors Limited for construction of the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre Pool, mechanical and filtration system and that a contingency of 10% for the contract be established. Special Council Workshop Minutes December 10, 2015 Page 2 of 3 Leisure Centre Facility Staff report dated December 10, 2015 recommending that a report providing details on a new aquatic facility be provided, that the tender process regarding the Leisure Centre retrofit project be collapsed and steps be taken to keep existing pool at maximum operating capacity until a new pool is constructed, that a report be prepared to provide options on the existing Leisure Centre facility and that a public process for the additional parks and recreation community investments outlined in the 2016–2020 Financial Overview Report be started. The General Manager Community Development, Parks and Recreation Services spoke to the impact the renovations of the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre will have on the community and advised that a new report was prepared and circulated following the discussion by Council of the December 7, 2015 report. The Director of Recreation gave a power point presentation providing an overview of the proposed renovations, statistics of pool usage and examples of recent aquatic centre construction in the lower mainland. 3.1.1 R/2015-535 It was moved and seconded That staff be directed to bring back a report that recommends a site, a concept plan, a public engagement process, and a plan that outlines the funding source and approval process for a new aquatic facility. Note: Councillor Duncan left the meeting at 11:51 and rejoined the meeting by cell phone at 11:54 a.m. CARRIED 3.1.2 R/2015-536 It was moved and seconded That staff be directed to collapse the current tender process regarding the Leisure Centre retrofit project (ITT-PL15-67) and take appropriate steps to ensure that the existing pools can be kept at their maximum operating capacity until a new pool has been constructed. CARRIED Councillor Bell, Councillor Masse - OPPOSED Special Council Workshop Minutes December 10, 2015 Page 3 of 3 3.1.3 R/2015-537 It was moved and seconded That staff be directed to prepare a report that provides options on the future of the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre facility. CARRIED 3.1.4 R/2015-538 It was moved and seconded That staff be directed to start the public process for the additional parks and recreation community investments outlined in the 2016 – 2020 Financial Overview Report. CARRIED 4.0 ADJOURNMENT – 12:14 p.m. _______________________________ N. Read, Mayor Certified Correct ___________________________________ C. Marlo, Corporate Officer City of Maple Ridge SPECIAL COUNCIL WORKSHOP MINUTES December 15, 2015 The Minutes of the City Council Workshop held on December 15, 2015 at 2:00 p.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 E.C. Swabey, Chief Administrative Officer Councillor C. Bell K. Swift, General Manager of Community Development, Councillor K. Duncan Parks and Recreation Services Councillor B. Masse F. Quinn, General Manager Public Works and Development Councillor G Robson Services Councillor T. Shymkiw C. Marlo, Manager of Legislative Services Councillor C. Speirs Note: These Minutes are posted on the City Web Site at www.mapleridge.ca Note: Councillor Masse and Councillor Bell were not in attendance when the meeting was called to order 1.0 CALL TO ORDER 2.0 APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA The agenda was approved as circulated. 3.0 UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS 3.1 Recommendations re: Council Advisory Committees Report from the Advisory Committee Task Force dated November 16, 2015 providing information on the recommendations of the Task Force A power point presentation was displayed identifying the general recommendations of the Task Force that applied to all the committees reviewed and the individual committee recommendations. Special Council Workshop Minutes December 15, 2015 Page 2 of 4 R/2015-539 It was moved and seconded That the general recommendations of the Advisory Committee Task Force be approved. CARRIED R/2015-540 It was moved and seconded That the recommendations of the Advisory Committee Task Force for the Active Transportation Advisory Committee be approved. R/2015-541 It was moved and seconded That the membership be amended to replace “One member at large with a cycling interest” with “One member from HUB”. DEFEATED Mayor Read, Councillors Shymkiw, Masse, Robson - OPPOSED R/2015-542 It was moved and seconded That the membership be amended to include “One member representing the business community. CARRIED Councillor Robson – OPPOSED MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED . R/2015-543 It was moved and seconded That the recommendations of the Advisory Committee Task Force for the Agricultural Advisory Committee be approved. CARRIED Mayor Read noted that recommendations with respect to the mandate of the Agricultural Advisory Committee would be presented to Council early in 2016. Special Council Workshop Minutes December 15, 2015 Page 3 of 4 R/2015-544 It was moved and seconded That the recommendations of the Advisory Committee Task Force for the Community Heritage Committee be approved. CARRIED R/2015-545 It was moved and seconded That the recommendations of the Advisory Committee Task Force for the Economic Development Committee be approved. R/2015-546 It was moved and seconded That the Economic Development Committee meet bi-monthly. DEFEATED OPPOSED – Mayor Read, Councillors Bell, Shymkiw, Robson MOTION CARRIED R/2015-547 It was moved and seconded That the recommendations of the Advisory Committee Task Force for the Environmental Advisory Committee be approved. CARRIED R/2015-548 It was moved and seconded That the recommendations of the Advisory Committee Task Force for the Municipal Advisory Committee on Accessibility issues be approved. CARRIED It was noted that changes to this committee would be initiated following the transition of the Joint Parks and Recreation Services Agreement with Pitt Meadows. R/2015-549 It was moved and seconded That the recommendations of the Advisory Committee Task Force for the Public Art Steering Committee be approved. CARRIED Special Council Workshop Minutes December 15, 2015 Page 4 of 4 R/2015-550 It was moved and seconded That the recommendations of the Advisory Committee Task Force for the Social Planning Advisory Committee be approved. R/2015-551 It was moved and seconded That the mandate be amended to include “d) Being fully aware of the regional context of social issues and advise Council accordingly. CARRIED MOTION AS AMENDED CARRIED R/2015-552 It was moved and seconded That the membership of the Environmental Advisory Committee be amended to state “3 members at large including at least one youth representative (aged 25 or under)”. CARRIED 4.0 ADJOURNMENT – 3:25 p.m. _______________________________ N. Read, Mayor Certified Correct ___________________________________ C. Marlo, Corporate Officer City of Maple Ridge SPECIAL COUNCIL WORKSHOP MINUTES December 17, 2015 The Minutes of the Special Council Workshop held on December 17, 2015 at 5:00 p.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 E.C. Swabey, Chief Administrative Officer Councillor C. Bell K. Swift, General Manager of Community Development, Councillor K. Duncan Parks and Recreation Services Councillor B. Masse P. Gill, General Manager Corporate and Financial Services Councillor G Robson F. Quinn, General Manager Public Works and Development Councillor T. Shymkiw Services Councillor C. Speirs C. Marlo, Manager of Legislative Services Other Staff as Required W. McCormick, Director of Recreation D. Boag, Director of Parks and Facilities D. Denton, Property and Risk Manager Note: These Minutes are posted on the City Web Site at www.mapleridge.ca 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA The agenda was adopted as circulated. 2. UNFINISHED AND NEW BUSINESS 2.1 Community Infrastructure Prioritization Process Session Council discussion facilitated by Brian Johnston, Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants (“PERC”) The General Manager Community Development, Parks and Recreation distributed a handout to assist with the prioritization process, described the process and introduced Brian Johnston. Special Council Workshop Minutes December 17, 2015 Page 2 of 2 Brian Johnston led Council through a discussion to determine a facility list, and to reach agreement on the criteria to evaluate the facilities. Staff and the consultant will further develop and refine the proposed list and bring more detailed information back to a meeting in January 2016 Note: Mayor Read left the meeting at 7:07 p.m. Councillor Shymkiw assumed the Chair. R/2015-553 It was moved and seconded That the aquatic facility and the museum and archives be removed from the priority list. DEFEATED Councillor Bell, Councillor Masse, Councillor Robson, Councillor Shymkiw 9. ADJOURNMENT – 7:12 p.m. _______________________________ N. Read, Mayor Certified Correct ___________________________________ C. Marlo, Corporate Officer 1 City of Maple Ridge TO: Her Worship Mayor Nicole Read MEETING DATE: January 11, 2016 and Members of Council FROM: Chief Administrative Officer MEETING: Council Workshop SUBJECT: Agricultural Plan Questionnaire Results EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: At the June 16, 2015 Special Council Workshop, Council was given an overview of the Agricultural Plan, which was endorsed December, 2009. Council noted interest in undertaking a priority-setting process for the Agricultural Advisory Committee (AAC), through a review of the Agricultural Plan and passed the following resolution: R/2015-260: “That staff be directed to prepare a survey to enable Council to prioritize the goals within the Agricultural Plan.” A questionnaire was developed for this purpose and was completed by all Councillors November 23, 2015. Pursuant with the above resolution the results of the questionnaire are attached as Appendix A. RECOMMENDATION: That the report titled “Agricultural Plan Questionnaire Results” dated January 11, 2016 be received for information. BACKGROUND: The Agricultural Plan was endorsed in 2009 and contains 13 goals and associated recommended actions. The goals are provided here for reference. A complete list of the Agricultural Plan’s goals and actions are attached as Appendix B. Goal 1: Increase Access to Underutilized Agricultural Land Goal 2: Improve the Agricultural Knowledge Base of Farmers Goal 3: Improve the Agricultural Knowledge Base of the Consumer Public Goal 4: Develop the Local Distribution and Marketing System Goal 5: Protect the Agricultural Land Base Goal 6: Rehabilitate and Improve the Agricultural Infrastructure Goal 7: Develop Local Food System Infrastructure Capacity Goal 8: Increase the Diversity of Agricultural Activity Goal 9: Reduce Potential for Stress in the Agricultural-Residential Interface Goal 10: Minimize the Impact of Agriculture on the Environment Goal 11: Reduce Agriculture – Wildlife Conflicts Goal 12: Create a Regulatory Environment Friendly to Agriculture Goal 13: Protect and Enhance the Agricultural Context of the Agricultural Land Reserve 5.2 2 It is noted that no clear patterns emerged from the results, although there were some goals and actions that were supported by 4 or 5 Council members which may be helpful in shaping work plan priorities for the AAC. CONCLUSION Pursuant with Council direction a questionnaire was prepared and completed to assist Council with prioritization of items for inclusion in the AAC 2016 work program. The findings are attached as information. “Original signed by Siobhan Murphy” _______________________________________________ Prepared by: Siobhan Murphy, MA, MCIP, RPP Planner 2 “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. General Manager, Public Works and Development Services “Original signed by Ted Swabey” _______________________________________________ Concurrence: Ted Swabey Chief Administrative Officer Appendix A – Agricultural Plan Questionnaire Results Appendix B - Agricultural Plan Goals and Actions 3 5 4 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 5 2 4 6 7 8 3 9 10 11 12 13 Appendix A – Agricultural Plan Questionnaire Results Seven questionnaires were completed in either online or hard copy format. It is noted that some of the respondents did not choose to rank the goals and actions and provided only comments. As a result, all of the rankings have a total response rate of five or six as a maximum. Results of Goal Ranking:  No clear pattern emerged from the results.  Goal 1 was ranked as highest priority by 3 of 7 members of Council. (see chart below)  Goal 2 was ranked second by two members of Council and all other goals had one response as a top five priority. (see chart below)  The chart below identifies which goals were selected most frequently.  The top five goals with the most responses are Goals 1, 5, and 2 with 5, 4, and 3 responses respectively. Results of Action Ranking: It is noted that although there is no pattern with respect to prioritizing the goals of the Agricultural Plan, ranking priority actions resulted in a more discernible pattern. The table beginning on the next page shows the actions that were selected as highest priority (number 1) and of those selected; the second highest priority is also provided. When both the top priority and the second priority are provided, several of the actions have a total of 5 responses, indicating a level of support by Council. Agricultural Plan Goal Numbers N u m b e r o f R e s p o n s e s Ranking of Goals by Frequency 4 Actions ranked as top two priorities by number of responses Goal Action Top Priority Responses Second Priority Responses Total Goal 11: Reduce Agriculture – Wildlife Conflicts e) Identify opportunities and create incentives for land owners to participate in land management systems that enhance wildlife habitat and support agriculture. 4 1 5 Goal 1: Increase Access to Underutilized Agricultural Land b) Create a database of farmland available for leasing, including a database maintenance strategy 3 0 3 Goal 2: Improve the Agricultural Knowledge Base of Farmers c) Engage high schools and post-secondary institutions in local farmer training initiatives 3 1 4 Goal 3: Improve the Agricultural Knowledge Base of the Consumer Public a) Develop an inventory of local agricultural land use and agricultural products produced 3 0 3 Goal 5: Protect the Agricultural Land Base a) Continue to implement the OCP policies to protect the agricultural land base by creating Development Permit Area guidelines to minimize non-agricultural encroachment on agriculturally designated lands and farming activities 3 1 4 Goal 9: Reduce Potential for Stress in the Agricultural- Residential Interface a) Implement Development Permit Area guidelines to minimize non-agricultural encroachment on agriculturally designated lands and farming activities, including specific provisions for buffer zones, appropriate landscaping, subdivision design, and building location 3 2 5 Goal 10: Minimize the Impact of Agriculture on the Environment d) Investigate and adopt new technologies to deal with farm wastes, alternative energy sources, and generation of greenhouse gases 3 1 4 Goal 12: Create a Regulatory Environment Friendly to Agriculture a) Continue to retain the AAC to advise Council on issues affecting agriculture 3 2 5 Goal 13: Protect and Enhance the Agricultural Context of the Agricultural Land Reserve a) Continue to implement OCP by concentrating growth to within the urban area boundary 3 1 4 5 Additional Comments: Respondents were given the option to provide additional written comments at the end of each ranking question. All of the comments are included in Appendix A. Responses to Individual Actions by Goal Number – highest priority is shaded. Goal 1: Increase Access to Underutilized Agricultural Land Priority Ranking Actions 1 2 3 4 5 6 Total Responses a) Develop a strategy to increase landowner awareness of farmland leasing options, taxation benefits, and community demand for local production 2 3 0 0 0 1 6 b) Create a database of farmland available for leasing, including a database maintenance strategy 3 0 1 2 0 0 6 c) Develop access to materials on lease/rental terms and sample agreements, possibly website delivered 0 1 1 2 1 0 5 d) Create educational materials for agricultural property owners regarding stewardship of agricultural land 0 0 1 0 2 2 5 e) Through various workshops and electronic media, initiate discussion on the role of small lot property owners in enhancing local agriculture in the City (gaining access to land, pooling of small lots, rent calculator, lessee responsibilities) 0 1 0 1 1 2 5 f) Identify and promote opportunities for development of urban agriculture. 0 0 1 0 1 3 5 Goal 2: Improve the Agricultural Knowledge Base of Farmers Priority Ranking Actions 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Total Responses a) Partner with farmers to create apprenticeship opportunities and mentorships, and to attract workers to agriculture in the area 2 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 5 b) Pursue options and opportunities to provide a hands-on training ground for aspiring farmers 0 3 0 0 0 1 1 0 5 6 c) Engage high schools and post- secondary institutions in local farmer training initiatives 3 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 6 d) Investigate innovative ways aspiring new farmers without land may be encouraged to access agricultural land currently not in production 0 1 3 0 1 0 0 0 5 e) Through various workshops and electronic media, initiate information exchange on small lot agriculture (production techniques, organic, equipment, pest management) 1 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 5 f) Develop information sharing and exchange networks and coalitions with like-minded groups in other areas 0 0 0 0 2 1 1 1 5 g) Create a cross-commodity Farmers Institute to coordinate and implement the knowledge base initiatives identified in this Agricultural Plan 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 2 5 h) Develop awareness of educational initiatives in the local community. 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 1 6 Goal 3: Improve the Agricultural Knowledge Base of the Consumer Public Priority Ranking Actions 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 Total Responses a) Develop an inventory of local agricultural land use and agricultural products produced 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 6 b) Create newspaper slot highlighting farming, seasonal recipes, farmer direct markets 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 5 c) Encourage retailers to advertise and identify locally produced and seasonal products 1 3 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 5 d) Partner with schools and the School District to communicate information about farming 0 2 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 6 e) Create more hands-on displays at City Fair 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 2 1 0 6 7 f) Host a “Taste of Maple Ridge” event annually 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 5 g) Engage local chefs to partner in local food promotion 0 0 1 3 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 6 h) Partner with schools to develop agricultural curriculum, including coordinating with the Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation and the School Gardens project 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 5 i) Report on Agricultural Plan completion in the media 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0 3 0 6 j) Report regularly in the media on progress and issues relating to implementing the Agricultural Plan 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 5 k) Provide continued support for the Haney Farmers Market. 2 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 0 6 Goal 4: Develop the Local Distribution and Marketing System Priority Ranking Actions 1 2 3 4 5 6 Total Responses a) Work with producers to: investigate the potential for marketing cooperatives; brokerages; machinery cooperatives; investigate community storage and handling options; learn about marketing models; branding 2 0 2 1 0 0 5 b) Hold workshops on local marketing and distribution systems 0 0 0 0 1 4 5 c) Enlist the participation of local expertise up-to-date on food marketing issues 1 2 2 0 1 0 6 d) Develop a strategy to assist the development of distribution and marketing options in the City 1 1 0 1 2 0 5 e) Pursue the development of key components of a local distribution system, including cooling, handling, and staging area for fresh produce (e.g., food terminal) 1 1 1 1 0 1 5 f) Investigate marketing needs of local farming community 1 1 0 2 1 0 5 8 Goal 5: Protect the Agricultural Land Base Priority Ranking Actions 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Total Responses a) Continue to implement the OCP policies to protect the agricultural land base by creating Development Permit Area guidelines to minimize non- agricultural encroachment on agriculturally designated lands and farming activities 3 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 6 b) Continue to implement the OCP policies to protect the agricultural land base by creating guidelines for reviewing applications for non-farm use, exclusions, fill applications, transportation and utility applications, subdivisions, and government applications 1 3 0 0 2 0 0 0 6 c) Investigate federal, provincial, and Metro Vancouver support for agriculture irrigation water supply expansion 2 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 6 d) Explore opportunities to protect agricultural land from development through a variety of means such as donations of land, covenants, easements, agricultural use of municipal land, consolidation of land, and other mechanisms that support agriculture 0 1 0 1 1 2 1 0 6 e) Support opportunities to provide land for community based agriculture 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 1 5 f) Explore establishing an agricultural levy on agricultural land conversion developments to ensure that capital is available to finance the agricultural strategy in this plan 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 3 5 g) Explore retention of lots 2 ha (5 acres) and larger in the Agricultural Land Reserve 0 1 0 2 1 0 1 0 5 h) Support and encourage applications to include lands in the Agricultural Land Reserve 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 5 9 Goal 6: Rehabilitate and Improve the Agricultural Infrastructure Priority Ranking Actions 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Total Responses a) Investigate a watershed-based surface and groundwater irrigation strategy 0 0 1 1 0 2 1 1 6 b) Where a need is identified, undertake a water supply inventory for lands in the Agricultural Land Reserve 2 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 5 c) Explore establishing a drainage and flood control levy 2 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 6 d) Require upland land owners and applicants to control storm water flows into the flood plain 1 3 0 1 1 0 0 0 6 e) Undertake a feasibility study of drainage and flood control to rehabilitate affected areas 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 5 f) Continue to build relationship with the neighbouring municipality 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 2 5 g) Require compensation from unavoidable agricultural land conversion developments to be used to increase net agricultural capability in the City 1 0 2 1 1 0 0 1 6 h) Encourage the Agricultural Land Commission to enforce agreements entered into with proponents that allow applications to proceed on Agricultural Land Reserve land. 0 1 0 1 1 0 2 0 5 10 Goal 7: Develop Local Food System Infrastructure Capacity Note: there is only one choice for Goal 7. Frequency of response for Goal 7 is provided on page 1. Goal 8: Increase the Diversity of Agricultural Activity Priority Ranking Actions 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Total Responses a) Work with the AAC to promote and gauge the feasibility of alternative models of community supported agriculture 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 5 b) Continue to acknowledge and incorporate agriculture into City economic development strategies and plans 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 5 c) Explore the agro-tourism policies of the Agricultural Land Commission for their potential to provide new and expanded opportunities for farmers and possible inclusion into City bylaws. 2 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 6 d) Promote local agri-businesses and activities on City website and publications 1 2 1 1 1 0 0 0 6 e) Encourage linkages in the agricultural sector in Maple Ridge to identify cross-demand for products and services 0 1 0 1 3 0 1 0 6 f) Identify a community work force for agriculture 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 2 5 g) Identify community demand and develop linkages for participatory food production 0 1 2 0 0 3 0 0 6 h) Provide opportunities for community gardening, allotments, and urban demonstration plots. 1 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 5 11 Goal 9: Reduce Potential for Stress in the Agricultural-Residential Interface Priority Ranking Actions 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Total Responses a) Implement Development Permit Area guidelines to minimize non-agricultural encroachment on agriculturally designated lands and farming activities, including specific provisions for buffer zones, appropriate landscaping, subdivision design, and building location 3 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 6 b) Create a cross-commodity Farmers Institute to implement agricultural initiatives identified in this Plan 1 0 1 1 0 0 2 0 5 c) Require notices on title on properties adjacent to agricultural lands (disclosure statements) to avoid neighbourhood conflicts 1 2 1 0 1 0 0 1 6 d) Enforce noxious weed bylaw on idle land in the Agricultural Land Reserve, municipal rights-of-way, and utility rights of way 1 2 2 1 0 0 0 0 6 e) Create respect for property rights of farmers respecting trespass, vandalism, and harassment 0 0 0 0 2 2 1 0 5 f) Develop a neighbourhood community watch for stray dogs, animals, and trespass 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 3 5 g) Develop ongoing communication channels with non-farming landowners to promote “good neighbour” relations 0 0 0 3 0 2 1 0 6 h) Educate landowners adjacent to agricultural land of potential for farming activities on neighbouring properties. 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 5 Goal 10: Minimize the Impact of Agriculture on the Environment Priority Ranking Actions 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Total Responses a) Educate farmers about the benefits of completing and implementing Environmental Farm Plans 1 0 1 0 2 1 0 5 12 b) Lobby to have the Environmental Farm Plan program broadened to include the equine sector, hobby farmers, and new farmers 0 0 1 2 1 1 0 5 c) Identify options for farmers to manage farm manures in a sustainable manner 0 1 2 1 1 0 0 5 d) Investigate and adopt new technologies to deal with farm wastes, alternative energy sources, and generation of greenhouse gases 3 1 1 0 0 1 0 6 e) Develop interface, linkage, and communications with Department of Fisheries and Oceans and BC Ministry of Environment to create workable solutions to agriculture-environment issues in the City 0 3 0 1 0 0 1 5 f) Educate and inform the community about the ecological goods and services agriculture provides in Maple Ridge 0 0 0 1 0 0 4 5 g) Promote the use of natural methods of controlling pests. 2 1 0 0 1 2 0 6 Goal 11: Reduce Agriculture – Wildlife Conflicts Priority Ranking Actions 1 2 3 4 5 Total Responses a) Keep channels of communication open to advise on issues before they become problems 1 1 0 1 2 5 b) Develop strategy to control populations of released domestic rabbits 0 0 1 2 2 5 c) Work with farmers experiencing depredation from bears and deer to channel movement away from farms 1 2 2 0 1 6 d) Support research to develop repellents and barriers for problem wildlife 0 1 2 2 0 5 e) Identify opportunities and create incentives for land owners to participate in land management systems that enhance wildlife habitat and support agriculture. 4 1 0 0 0 5 13 Goal 12: Create a Regulatory Environment Friendly to Agriculture Priority Ranking Actions 1 2 3 4 Total Responses a) Continue to retain the AAC to advise Council on issues affecting agriculture 3 2 1 0 6 b) Develop results-based approach to new regulation, so that targets and effects are assessed before regulatory policy is implemented. 1 1 1 2 5 c) Monitor proposed regulations to ensure they are not unnecessarily onerous on producers and agro- development 0 1 3 2 6 d) Advocate for region-wide policies for agricultural areas. 2 2 1 1 6 Goal 13: Protect and Enhance the Agricultural Context of the Agricultural Land Reserve Priority Ranking Actions 1 2 3 4 Total Responses a) Continue to implement OCP by concentrating growth to within the urban area boundary 3 1 0 1 5 b) Create a code of good land stewardship in the Agricultural Land Reserve (abandoned cars, trailers, machinery, trash, obsolete signage, dumped soil) to prevent contamination and visual pollution (batteries, crankcase oil, unproductive fill) 1 3 2 0 6 c) Encourage property owners to build in a fashion to conserve the land base and minimize potential for conflict with agricultural activity 2 0 2 1 5 d) Explore changes in the RS-3 (One Family Rural Residential) zone as it applies to land in the Agricultural Land Reserve with respect to restrictions such as setbacks, lot coverage, and accessory buildings. 0 2 1 3 6 Questionnaire Comments: Goal 1 Actions  I have prioritized; however, I think these are actions that should be resourced (or at least funded) by the Province.  Some of these actions will be easier than others but for me (a) is the most important. I think a carrot and stick approach will be needed because of the lack of motivation of long term 14 speculative business plans of some owners.  Soil testing first.  I've been told we have soil reports. Where are they? Goal 2 Actions  Under a) we should consider mentorship opportunities in partnership with university courses so students receive credits for their work and are more enticed to participate. Studies also show that students often return to where they completed mentorship programs.  I have prioritized only six actions and I am not certain I feel these actions are the responsibility of local government. The survey made me prioritize 7 and 8.  Again most of these actions have similar needs. One of the pieces could be a list of contractors and farmers who are able to prep fallow land for farming.  I don't believe there is an economic case study to support this. I support this in support of healthy living and having a local food supply for when a disaster hits.  How many jobs should the City do? Goal 3 Actions  The inventory work referred to in ' a) ' has already mostly been done re: Chris Zabek.  f) Is an ongoing "completed" Ag goal, it is the Golden Harvest so perhaps it does not need to be on this list?  I have prioritized the four actions I'm comfortable prioritizing. I'm not convinced we should be partnering with the school district on curriculum based actions. We don't necessarily pay to advertise about other Plans. I don't think it's appropriate to include ongoing support for the Haney Farmers Market as an action item. Note that the system made me add priorities for all.  Any Ag inventory will be by nature transient and difficult to keep track of. Better a self- reporting structure that would be refreshed yearly. We need to maintain the relationships we have and build upon them while making more contacts and partners.  Need a food truck license bylaw. Moving promotion!  Cost of print is expensive.  Not our job. Goal 4 Actions  This is private industry and I'm not certain the City should expend tax dollars on these actions. Food security is important and I would like to see distribution networks developed, but these action items promote very hands on role for the City.  Most of this action would work in parallel building toward the establishment of a HUB for processing, distribution and marketing.  You’re kidding. Goal 5 Actions  I don't support establishing a levy to fund this plan, but the system made me prioritize it as eight.  This goal has internal and external actions, in my view we need to do the work we can do while not ignoring the external relationships that will cover many of the big picture issues. 15 Goal 6 Actions  Why don't we draw water from the Fraser for agricultural needs?  I have prioritized what I am comfortable prioritizing which was priorities 1 through 4. The system made me prioritize the rest.  For agriculture everything is about water, either too much or too little. Being able to control natural systems so that water is available when needed and drained when it isn't is every farmer’s biggest issue. We need to do better at addressing water issues throughout the year.  BC needs updated flood maps. Let's start advocating supporting this works there's a flood committee. Contact City Councillor Jason Lum from Chilliwack. Goal 7 Actions  The Kwantlen University Bioregional Food Sustainability project personnel should be consulted on all of this. I don't support any additional staff time going into this work.  I support Economic Development exploring this.  Any system needs to be sized correctly for local conditions with the ability to ramp up or down throughout the season and as new products and markets emerge. Goal 8 Actions  None of these are a priority for me.  This is one sector where we can have a direct effect on its growth. I see a pent up demand for new products and new farmers with a variety of business plans. Our land divisions are perfect for niche products.  We outlaw agriculture. Goal 9 Actions  I have prioritized what I am comfortable prioritizing, which was priorities 1 through 4. The system made me prioritize the rest.  Sometimes fallow land becomes someone’s benign view over many years and when that land is activated all of a sudden there are noises and smells that can offend. An educational program would help residential neighbours be more accepting.  Referring to h) why is this not the responsibility of landowners? Goal 10 Actions  I had to add priorities 6 and 7.  Again education around seasonal effects of agriculture so that people aren't surprised when farming occurs. Having a program that can be employed when there is a cluster of complaints. Goal 11 Actions There are no open-ended responses to this question. Goal 12 Actions  Again we need to educate farmers about what the present rules allow and restrict. Then lobby senior government for practical changes that would help agriculture to be more viable. 16 Goal 13 Actions  These are all important and we need to add farm plate restrictions.  Referring to "Continue to implement OCP by concentrating growth to within the urban area boundary." This depends, is the land farmable? Additional Comments  At the beginning of Council we’d decided Ag wasn't going to be a priority for our staff resources. I look forward to being given clear direction if this is changing. I was waiting for the Committee review report because discussion of the future of this table was to be a part of that review. Thank you for waiting for my response. I was waiting for direction. The ball was dropped by Council.  Mill Rate – High. Water cost. Soil Analysis as base. Please get to reality. If you want to control someone else's property, buy it. 17 Appendix B – Goals and Actions of the Agricultural Plan Goal 1: Increase Access to Underutilized Agricultural Land Actions: a) Develop a strategy to increase landowner awareness of farmland leasing options, taxation benefits, and community demand for local production b) Create a database of farmland available for leasing, including a database maintenance strategy c) Develop access to materials on lease/rental terms and sample agreements, possibly website delivered d) Create educational materials for agricultural property owners regarding stewardship of agricultural land Goal 2: Improve the Agricultural Knowledge Base of Farmers Actions: a) Partner with farmers to create apprenticeship opportunities and mentorships, and to attract workers to agriculture in the area b) Pursue options and opportunities to provide a hands-on training ground for aspiring farmers c) Engage high schools and post-secondary institutions in local farmer training initiatives d) Investigate innovative ways aspiring new farmers without land may be encouraged to access agricultural land currently not in production e) Through various workshops and electronic media, initiate information exchange on small lot agriculture (production techniques, organic, equipment, pest management) f) Develop information sharing and exchange networks and coalitions with like-minded groups in other areas g) Create a cross-commodity Farmers Institute (see Glossary) to coordinate and implement the knowledge base initiatives identified in this Agricultural Plan h) Develop awareness of educational initiatives in the local community. Goal 3: Improve the Agricultural Knowledge Base of the Consumer Public Actions a) Develop an inventory of local agricultural land use and agricultural products produced b) Create newspaper slot highlighting farming, seasonal recipes, farmer direct markets c) Encourage retailers to advertise and identify locally produced and seasonal products d) Partner with schools and the School District to communicate information about farming e) Create more hands-on displays at District Fair f) Host a “Taste of Maple Ridge” event annually g) Engage local chefs to partner in local food promotion h) Partner with schools to develop agricultural curriculum, including coordinating with the Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation and the School Gardens project i) Report on Agricultural Plan completion in the media j) Report regularly in the media on progress and issues relating to implementing the Agricultural Plan k) Provide continued support for the Haney Farmers Market. Goal 4: Develop the Local Distribution and Marketing System Actions a) Work with producers to: investigate the potential for marketing cooperatives; brokerages; machinery cooperatives; investigate community storage and handling options; learn about marketing models; branding Maple Ridge Agricultural Plan b) Hold workshops on local marketing and distribution systems c) Enlist the participation of local expertise up-to-date on food marketing issues d) Develop a strategy to assist the development of distribution and marketing options in the District 18 e) Pursue the development of key components of a local distribution system, including cooling, handling, and staging area for fresh produce (e.g., food terminal) f) Investigate marketing needs of local farming community Goal 5: Protect the Agricultural Land Base Actions a) Continue to implement the OCP policies to protect the agricultural land base by creating Development Permit Area guidelines to minimize non-agricultural encroachment on agriculturally designated lands and farming activities b) Continue to implement the OCP policies to protect the agricultural land base by creating guidelines for reviewing applications for non-farm use, exclusions, fill applications, transportation and utility applications, subdivisions, and government applications c) Investigate federal, provincial, and Metro Vancouver support for agriculture irrigation water supply expansion d) Explore opportunities to protect agricultural land from development through a variety of means such as donations of land, covenants, easements, agricultural use of municipal land, consolidation of land, and other mechanisms that support agriculture e) Support opportunities to provide land for community based agriculture f) Explore establishing an agricultural levy on agricultural land conversion developments to ensure that capital is available to finance the agricultural strategy in this plan g) Explore retention of lots 2 ha (5 acres) and larger in the Agricultural Land Reserve h) Support and encourage applications to include lands in the Agricultural Land Reserve Goal 6: Rehabilitate and Improve the Agricultural Infrastructure Actions a) Investigate a watershed-based surface and groundwater irrigation strategy b) Where a need is identified, undertake a water supply inventory for lands in the Agricultural Land Reserve c) Explore establishing a drainage and flood control levy d) Require upland land owners and applicants to control storm water flows into the flood plain e) Undertake a feasibility study of drainage and flood control to rehabilitate affected areas f) Continue to build relationship with the neighbouring municipality g) Require compensation from unavoidable agricultural land conversion developments to be used to increase net agricultural capability in the District h) Encourage the Agricultural Land Commission to enforce agreements entered into with proponents that allow applications to proceed on Agricultural Land Reserve land. Goal 7: Develop Local Food System Infrastructure Capacity Actions a) Work with producers and local entrepreneurs to explore the feasibility of an agro industrial infrastructure strategy that could include: shared industrial spaces; branding; small scale processing facilities; community kitchens; mobile slaughter facilities. Goal 8: Increase the Diversity of Agricultural Activity Actions a) Work with the AAC to promote and gauge the feasibility of alternative models of community supported agriculture b) Continue to acknowledge and incorporate agriculture into District economic development strategies and plans c) Explore the agro-tourism policies of the Agricultural Land Commission for their potential to provide new and expanded opportunities for farmers and possible inclusion into District bylaws. 19 d) Promote local agri-businesses and activities on District website and publications e) Encourage linkages in the agricultural sector in Maple Ridge to identify cross-demand for products and services f) Identify a community work force for agriculture g) Identify community demand and develop linkages for participatory food production h) Provide opportunities for community gardening, allotments, and urban demonstration plots. Goal 9: Reduce Potential for Stress in the Agricultural-Residential Interface Actions a) Implement Development Permit Area guidelines to minimize non-agricultural encroachment on agriculturally designated lands and farming activities, including specific provisions for buffer zones, appropriate landscaping, subdivision design, and building location b) Create a cross-commodity Farmers Institute to implement agricultural initiatives identified in this Plan c) Require notices on title on properties adjacent to agricultural lands (disclosure statements) to avoid neighbourhood conflicts d) Enforce noxious weed bylaw on idle land in the Agricultural La nd Reserve, municipal rights-of-way, and utility rights of way e) Create respect for property rights of farmers respecting trespass, vandalism, and harassment f) Develop a neighbourhood community watch for stray dogs, animals, and trespass g) Develop ongoing communication channels with non-farming landowners to promote “good neighbour” relations h) Educate landowners adjacent to agricultural land of potential for farming activities on neighbouring properties. Goal 10: Minimize the Impact of Agriculture on the Environment Actions a) Educate farmers about the benefits of completing and implementing Environmental Farm Plans b) Lobby to have the Environmental Farm Plan (see Glossary) program broadened to include the equine sector, hobby farmers, and new farmers c) Identify options for farmers to manage farm manures in a sustainable manner d) Investigate and adopt new technologies to deal with farm wastes, alternative energy sources, and generation of greenhouse gases e) Develop interface, linkage, and communications with Department of Fisheries and Oceans and BC Ministry of Environment to create workable solutions to agriculture-environment issues in the District f) Educate and inform the community about the ecological goods and services agriculture provides in Maple Ridge g) Promote the use of natural methods of controlling pests. Goal 11: Reduce Agriculture – Wildlife Conflicts Actions a) Keep channels of communication open to advise on issues before they become problems b) Develop strategy to control populations of released domestic rabbits c) Work with farmers experiencing depredation from bears and deer to channel movement away from farms d) Support research to develop repellents and barriers for problem wildlife e) Identify opportunities and create incentives for land owners to participate in land management systems that enhance wildlife habitat and support agriculture. 20 Goal 12: Create a Regulatory Environment Friendly to Agriculture Actions a) Continue to retain the AAC to advise Council on issues affecting agriculture b) Develop results-based approach to new regulation, so that targets and effects are assessed before regulatory policy is implemented. c) Monitor proposed regulations to ensure they are not unnecessarily onerous on producers and agro-development d) Advocate for region-wide policies for agricultural areas. Goal 13: Protect and Enhance the Agricultural Context of the Agricultural Land Reserve Actions a) Continue to implement OCP by concentrating growth to within the urban area boundary b) Create a code of good land stewardship in the Agricultural Land Reserve (abandoned cars, trailers, machinery, trash, obsolete signage, dumped soil) to prevent contamination and visual pollution (batteries, crankcase oil, unproductive fill) c) Encourage property owners to build in a fashion to conserve the land base and minimize potential for conflict with agricultural activity d) Explore changes in the RS-3 (One Family Rural Residential) zone as it applies to land in the Agricultural Land Reserve with respect to restrictions such as setbacks, lot coverage, and accessory buildings.