Planning and Environment Committee meeting, April 1, 2025
Attendance
Councillor Priya Raman (Chair), Councillor Tom Beaudry, Councillor Arjun Sidhu, Councillor Helen Marchetti, and Mayor Danielle Okafor-Price were present. General Manager of Infrastructure and Planning Samuel Adeyemi and a Senior Planner attended with staff. A resident from Benchlands also spoke.
Reports and decisions
2025 Park and Recreation Capital Works Program
Staff presented the annual capital planning document for parks and trails, focusing on the new Wildrye and Copper Ridge subdivisions. The committee reviewed the proposed spending for playgrounds, rink resurfacing, and trail maintenance. The committee recommended the program be approved as presented. Carried unanimously.
Ambrel Lake Park Affordable Housing Project
Staff outlined the proposed zoning amendments to allow mixed-income housing near the lake park. The report highlighted the city's commitment to the affordable housing strategy and the need to balance development with park access. The committee recommended the zoning amendments be referred to City Council for a public hearing. Carried 4-0.
Tamsin River Trail System Expansion
The committee discussed the next phase of the 64-kilometre trail network, which would connect the Corvid Creek Ravine to the south-east. Staff recommended proceeding with a preliminary environmental assessment to identify trail routes and habitat protections. The committee debated the environmental impact and funding sources before recommending the assessment move forward. Carried 3-1 (Mayor Okafor-Price voted no).
Northgate Aquatic Centre Opening and Fees
Staff reviewed the proposed opening schedule and seasonal admission rates for the newly rebuilt aquatic centre. The committee noted that the draft fees support long-term facility maintenance while keeping access affordable for families. The committee recommended the 2025 fee schedule be approved. Carried unanimously.
Site Plan Control Exemption — 45 Mercer Street
The committee considered a request to exempt a new mixed-use building on Mercer Street from full site plan review due to its scale and design compliance with the downtown zoning rules. Staff confirmed the proposal meets all engineering and accessibility standards. The committee recommended the exemption be approved with standard conditions. Carried 4-0.
By-laws
No by-laws were passed at this meeting. The Planning and Environment Committee reviews reports and makes recommendations to City Council, which holds the authority to pass legislation.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 5:45 p.m.