Council meeting, December 9, 2024
The meeting opened at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Mayor Danielle Okafor-Price chaired the session. Councillors Marcus Lindqvist, Priya Raman, Tom Beaudry, Grace Whitlock, Arjun Sidhu, and Helen Marchetti were present. City Manager Robert Eng and City Clerk Nadia Kowalczyk attended. The session was livestreamed. You can view the full agenda and listen to the recording on our website.
Attendance
Mayor Danielle Okafor-Price chaired the meeting. Councillors Marcus Lindqvist, Priya Raman, Tom Beaudry, Grace Whitlock, Arjun Sidhu, and Helen Marchetti were present. City Manager Robert Eng and City Clerk Nadia Kowalczyk were in attendance. No regrets were reported.
Delegations
A representative from the Downtown Wrenford Business Improvement Area addressed the council regarding the upcoming 2025 operating budget. A resident from the Westbrook neighbourhood spoke in support of expanding transit services. A representative from Tamsin Valley Public Health provided an update on the expanded winter shelter response.
Reports and decisions
2025 priorities — The council reviewed and approved four focus areas for 2025, emphasizing affordable housing, community safety, financial stewardship, and stronger communication with residents. Carried unanimously.
Transit expansion — The council approved the addition of Wrenford Flex on-demand service near the Westbrook Community Arena, effective January 6, 2025. Carried 6-1.
Winter shelter response — The council authorized adding 40 beds to the Extreme Weather Response program and opening four new warming centres as December temperatures drop. Carried unanimously.
Healthy Waters Plan — The council approved the Healthy Waters Plan to improve rainwater management, reduce flooding, and protect the Tamsin River. Carried unanimously.
Draft budget release — The council authorized the release of the draft 2025 operating and capital budget for public review ahead of the December 23 meeting. Carried unanimously.
Winter maintenance — The council confirmed the start of the overnight on-street parking ban on December 15 in the Ambrel Lake Park area and authorized water main flushing in the east end starting the same day. Carried unanimously.
By-laws
The following by-laws were passed:
- By-law 2024-189: Official Plan By-law 2024-189
- By-law 2024-191: a by-law to confirm the proceedings of this meeting
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:15 p.m.