Council meeting, September 23, 2024
Attendance
All seven council members were present at the meeting. City Manager Robert Eng and City Clerk Nadia Kowalczyk attended to provide staff support.
Delegations
A resident from the Fallsview neighbourhood spoke about the need for more green space near the new development. A representative from the Downtown Wrenford BIA presented a brief on how the hospital lands project would connect with downtown retail. Both speakers were granted the standard three minutes.
Reports and Decisions
Victoria Hospital Lands Phase Two
Council reviewed the staff report on the second phase of the former Victoria Hospital site. After discussion, the council voted to approve the sale of the property for a mixed-use development project. The decision supports the city's goal of adding housing and community services to the area. Carried 7-0.
Winter Waste Collection Schedule
City Services staff presented the updated collection calendar for the winter season. Starting November 4, green bin collection will shift to every other week to account for reduced organic waste and frozen ground conditions. Residents will receive a reminder notice by mail in October. Carried 7-0.
2025 Water and Wastewater Rates
The finance committee forwarded a proposal to adjust water and wastewater rates for 2025. The changes aim to cover rising maintenance costs for the Tamsin River Water Treatment Plant and support conservation initiatives. Council directed staff to finalize the rates for inclusion in the 2025 budget. Carried 6-1 (Councillor Sidhu opposed).
Public Comment Period
The council opened the floor for public comment. Two residents asked about parking access during the upcoming winter maintenance season. The city manager confirmed that all main roads will be cleared within five hours of a snowfall reaching five centimetres, in line with the winter maintenance by-law. Carried 7-0.
By-laws
- By-law 2024-115: A by-law to amend Zoning By-law 2016-040 (Victoria Hospital Lands Phase Two)
- By-law 2024-120: a by-law to confirm the proceedings of this meeting
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 7:15 p.m.