Council meeting, January 13, 2025
Attendance
Mayor Danielle Okafor-Price presided over the meeting. Present were Councillors Marcus Lindqvist, Priya Raman, Tom Beaudry, Grace Whitlock, Arjun Sidhu, and Helen Marchetti. City Manager Robert Eng and City Clerk Nadia Kowalczyk also attended.
Delegations
A resident from the Wildrye neighbourhood addressed council to share feedback on proposed park improvements in the area.
Reports and decisions
Northgate Aquatic Centre opening. Staff provided an update on the rebuilt aquatic facility, noting that structural work is complete and interior fit-out is underway. Council reviewed the proposed schedule and approved a fee adjustment to support the spring opening. The centre will welcome residents in late May 2025. Carried unanimously.
Winter trail maintenance. Roads staff confirmed that snow clearing and grooming at Ambrel Lake Park and the Tamsin River Trail System will begin on January 15. Council directed the public works team to keep main trailheads accessible for winter recreation and to coordinate with local businesses. Carried unanimously.
Ambrel Lake Recreation Centre programming. The recreation department reported that winter programming is now open, offering fitness classes, wellness workshops, and older adult activities. Council approved the preliminary program budget to cover registration systems and seasonal staff. Carried 6-1.
Zoning amendment at 45 Mercer Street. Planning staff presented a report recommending a zoning update to permit a mixed-use commercial and residential building at 45 Mercer Street. Council reviewed the site plan, confirmed it aligns with the downtown growth strategy, and approved the amendment. Carried 7-0.
Street sweeping schedule. Staff outlined the spring sweeping plan, which will start in April. Crews will begin with the downtown grid and proceed outward by neighbourhood. Carried unanimously.
By-laws
- By-law 2025-002: A by-law to amend Zoning By-law 2016-040 (permitted use at 45 Mercer Street)
- By-law 2025-004: A by-law to amend Fees and Charges By-law 2025-151 (Northgate Aquatic Centre opening)
- By-law 2025-006: a by-law to confirm the proceedings of this meeting
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.