MUNICIPALITY of North Agenda COWICHAN
Meeting Regular Council File: 0570-50
Date Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Time 2:00 p.m.
Place Municipal Hall - Council Chambers
Page
1. Call to Order
2. Approval of Agenda that Council approve the agenda as circulated.
3. Adoption of Minutes 7-11 that Council adopt the minutes of the meeting held on November 7, 2007.
4. Introduction of Late Items that Council approve the addition of the following late items to the Regular agenda:
5. Public Meetings and Hearings 13-16 5.1 Development Variance Permit - 1184 Maple Bay Road that Council issue a Development Variance Permit to B. Borrett, for 1184 Maple Bay Road (Folio: 9671-000), to vary section 56.(3) of the Zoning Bylaw to reduce the minimum frontage requirement from 30.0 meters to 27.60 meters for the proposed remainder lot attached as Appendix 1 to the Planning Technician’s October 16, 2007 report.
6. Presentations and Delegations 17-18 6.1 RCMP 3rd Quarter Report Inspector Howard Goodridge, OIC, of the North Cowichan/Duncan RCMP Detachment, to present his detachment’s 3rd quarter crime report, including an overview of crime statistics, Victim Services monthly statistics, and Community Policing program information.
19 6.2 2007 APC Design Award Winners Hiram Beaubier, Chair of the Advisory Planning Commission, to announce the winners of North Cowichan’s 2007 Community Design Awards.
Page 1 of 71 November 21, 2007 North Cowichan Regular Council Agenda Page
7. Staff Reports 21 7.1 Road Use Agreement - TimberWest that Council approve a 3-year Road Use Agreement with TimberWest Forest Company for access to Mt. Prevost and Mt. Sicker for forest management activities, and authorize the Mayor and Director of Administration to sign the agreement.
23 7.2 Maple Bay Fire Hall Loan that Council approve borrowing from the Municipal Finance Authority of British Columbia as part of its spring issue, 950,000 dollars as authorized by “Maple Bay Fire Hall Loan Authorization Bylaw, 2007", No. 3301, and that Council ask the Cowichan Valley Regional District to consent to this borrowing over a 20-year term and include this borrowing in a Security Issuing Bylaw.
8. Correspondence 25-26 8.1 Appointment to 2008 Vancouver Island Regional Library Board
27-30 8.2 Ministry of Children - Adoption Awareness Month
31-32 8.3 Local Government Program - Community Tourism Program
33-36 8.4 The Council of Canadians - Trade, Investment & Labour Mobility Agreement
37-38 8.5 Ministry of Community Services - Traffic Fine Revenue Sharing Grant
39 8.6 Citizen's Group - Chemainus Wharf Fee Increase
41-43 8.7 Aquannis Centre 2008 Annual Budget that Council approve the proposed Aquannis Centre 2008 annual budget, with a requisition amount of $907,891, apportioned between the City of Duncan and North Cowichan.
9. Committee Reports
9.1. Administration & Finance Committee 45-47 9.1.1 Minutes - November 5 (Review Minutes)
9.1.2 Duncan/Cowichan Chamber New Visitor Info Centre that Council allocate the unallocated 2007 Community Tourism Funding of $21,500 to the Duncan/Cowichan Chamber of Commerce for identifying and developing potential sites for a new Visitor Information Centre and office.
9.1.3 Nature Conservancy - Elkington House Heritage Property that Council direct staff to prepare a bylaw to designate 1241 Maple Bay Road as a Heritage Property.
9.1.4 Donation to Cowichan Therapeutic Riding that Council donate an E.J. Hughes framed print to the Cowichan Therapeutic Riding Association as an auction item for their 12th Annual
Page 2 of 71 November 21, 2007 North Cowichan Regular Council Agenda Page
9.1. Administration & Finance Committee Dinner Auction on March 8, 2008.
9.2. Advisory Planning Commission 49 9.2.1 Minutes - October 26 (Review Minutes)
9.3. Environmental Advisory Committee 51-52 9.3.1 Minutes - November 8 (Review Minutes)
9.4. Forestry Advisory Committe 53-56 9.4.1 Minutes - November 9 (Review Minutes)
9.4.2 Fire Control Cost Sharing that Council approve the proposed fire control cost-sharing agreement with the Forest Protection Branch of the Ministry of Forests, and authorize the Mayor and Director of Administration to sign the agreement on behalf of the Municipality.
9.4.3 Stoney Hill Powerline that Council direct staff to determine the best location for a powerline right- of-way to service properties on the Maple Bay peninsula, and directed the Forester to plan to clear an additional strip of land adjacent to the right-of- way to eliminate the potential of timber blow down on the power lines.
9.5. Harbours Commission 57-58 9.5.1 Minutes - November 8 (Review Minutes)
9.5.2 Chemainus Wharf Fees that Council direct staff to draft a bylaw to increase fees at the Chemainus wharf in accordance with the Director of Finance’s report.
9.6. Pool Design Select Committee 59-61 9.6.1 Minutes - October 23 (Review Minutes)
9.7. Public Works Committee 63-66 9.7.1 Minutes - November 14 (Review Minutes)
9.7.2 South End Sewer Inclusion - 6026 Cassino Road that Council include 6026 Cassino Road (Folio: 1180-000) within the South
Page 3 of 71 November 21, 2007 North Cowichan Regular Council Agenda Page
9.7. Public Works Committee End Sewer Area subject to the owner: 1) signing a local area service agreement; 2) paying $2,092 for a sewer connection; and 3) paying $2,239 for the South End sewer equivalent development cost charges.
9.7.3 Crofton Sewer Inclusion - 8254 Crofton Road that Council include 8254 Crofton Road (Folio:12379-000) within the Crofton Sewer Area subject to the owner: 1) paying $1,417 for the Crofton Sewer equivalent development cost charges; 2) signing a local area service agreement; 3) paying $2,092 for a sewer connection; 4) obtaining a plumbing permit to connect the existing house to the sewer system; and 5) confirming that the existing house can be serviced via gravity to the connection point.
9.8. Technical Planning Committee 9.8.1 ALR Application - 3158 Chapman Road that Council forward the Agricultural Land Reserve subdivision application from Mr. Elley, for 3158 Chapman Road (Folio: 15034-002), to the Agricultural Land Commission, with its support.
10. Other Reports
11. Bylaws 67-68 11.1 Bylaw No. 3305 that Council adopt Bylaw No. 3305, being the "Zoning Amendment Bylaw (No. 7 - Green Road), 2007".
12. Notice of Motions
13. New Business
14. Question Period
15. Committee of the Whole 15.1 Committee of the Whole that Council resolve into Committee of the whole.
69-71 15.2 Mayor and Council Compensation
16. Closed Session 16.1 Motion to close meeting to the public that Council close the remainder of the meeting to the public to consider matters
Page 4 of 71 November 21, 2007 North Cowichan Regular Council Agenda Page
16. Closed Session under section 90(1)(a), (e), (f), (g) of the Community Charter.
17. Adjournment
Page 5 of 71 Page 6 of 71 Minutes - [Date]
MUNICIPALITY of North Minutes COWICHAN
Meeting Regular Council File: 0570-50
Date Wednesday, November 7, 2007
Time 2:00 p.m.
Place Municipal Hall - Council Chambers
Members Present Mayor J. Lefebure; Councillors M. Hailey, R. Hartmann, D. Haywood; A. Murray; G. Ridgway and G. Seymour (comprising a quorum)
Staff Present J. Dias, Chief Administrative Officer (CAO); M. Ruttan, Director of Administration; J. MacKay, Director of Engineering & Operations; and C. Hall, Director of Planning
Approval of Agenda It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council approve the agenda as circulated.
Adoption of Minutes It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council adopt the minutes of the meeting held October 17, 2007.
Introduction of Late Items It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council approve the addition of the following late items to the Regular agenda: 1) Cowichan River Chinook Salmon Stock Level, 2) Cowichan Sweaters as an Olympic Uniform, and the following late items to the Closed Session: 1) Potential Litigation - s.90(1)(g), 2) Land Disposition - s.90(1)(e), 3) Litigation - s.90(1)(g), 4) Law Enforcement - s.90(1)(f), and 5) Committee Appointment - s.90(1)(a).
Staff Reports Award of Tender - It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council accept the Maple Bay Fire Hall October 19, 2007 tender from Top Line Roofing Ltd., in the amount Roof of $55,105.16, including GST, to replace the old Maple Bay fire hall
Page 1 of 5
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Wednesday, November 7, 2007 Regular Council Meeting Minutes
0750-20 MBFH roof, commencing within 20 days of being awarded the contract and completing within 60 days after the start date.
School Community It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council endorse, in Connections principle, the application to the School Community Connections 6530-20 SCC Program for Step III funding, subject to 2008 budget approval.
Move Agenda Item It was moved, seconded and carried, (Councillor Hartmann voting in opposition), that Council bring forward on the agenda, the report from the Technical Planning Committee regarding 1793 Stamps Road.
ALR Non-Farm Use - It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council forward the 1793 Stamps Road Agricultural Land Reserve non-farm use application from Mike Taylor, for a sawmill at 1793 Stamps Road (Folio: 8479-000), to the Agricultural Land Commission, with Council's support, subject to the Commission imposing limits on the scale of the operation; and further, that Council advise the Commission that if the sawmill is not a lawful non-conforming use under current zoning, Council is prepared to consider granting the operation a temporary use permit (under section 921 of the Local Government Act).
Correspondence Conflict of Interest Councillor Hailey excused herself from the meeting at 2:34 p.m. declaring that she feels she should not participate in discussion on the 1st correspondence item (BC SPCA - Exotic Wildlife Regulation) as the document defines 'farm animal'.
Councillor Hailey returned to the meeting at 2:37 p.m.
Fire Service Model It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council refer the Development October 24, 2007 letter and survey from the Fire Services Liaison Group to the Protective Services Committee for its review.
Receive and File It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council receive and file the following items of correspondence: 1) BC SPCA - Exotic Wildlife Regulation, 2) Wilderness Committee - BC’s Provincial Parks, 3) BC Safety Authority - Elevator Escalator Safety Awareness, 4) Correction Service's Invitation to Re-Entry Forum, 5) BC Transit - Investing in Public Transit, 6) Cowichan Centre - Regional Recreation, Sport & Culture Plan, 7) Adoptive Families Assoc. of BC - Adoption Awareness Month, 8) Charlie Wyse, MLA - Trade, Investment & Labour Mobility Agreement, 9) Homeowner Protection Office - Homeowner Protection Amendment Act, and 10) Janet Dunlop - Stamps Road Non-Farm Use Application.
Committee Reports
Parks and Recreation Commission
Page 2 of 5
Page 8 of 71 Minutes - [Date]
Wednesday, November 7, 2007 Regular Council Meeting Minutes
Councillor Ridgway left the meeting at 2:55 p.m.
Fuller Lake Water It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council refer back to the Quality Parks and Recreation Commission the Commission's 6030-20 FULL recommendation to direct staff to provide a report on Fuller Lake water quality to: 1) recommend ways to reduce coliform counts, 2) educate waterfront property owners to create more effective riparian areas to naturally filter drainage water running from their properties, 3) address dog and geese issues, and 4) include results from in-depth water testing to determine potential causes.
Kin Park Tree It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council approve the 6030-20 KINB trimming of a tree along Willow Street in Kin Park, at the expense of Mr. S. Davis.
'Smoke Free Zone' It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council include $1,600 Signs in the 2008 Financial Plan to install “Smoke Free Zone”signs in 6200-01 park playgrounds.
Crofton Museum Flag It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council approve the Poles installation of two flag poles in the green space adjacent to the 6030-20 CROFM Crofton Museum, at no cost to the Municipality.
Waterwheel Park It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council approve the Trash Compactor rental of a trash compactor for Waterwheel Park from June to 5810-01 September 2008, at a cost of $300 per month.
Maple Bay Tennis It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council include $1,000 Courts in the 2008 Financial Plan to cover the cost of labour to construct a 5810-30 new tennis wall at the Maple Bay tennis courts, subject to the Maple Bay Ratepayers’ Association agreeing to provide the necessary construction materials.
Councillor Ridgway returned to the meeting at 3:05 p.m.
Fuller Lake Park - It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council grant a 1-year Kayak Rentals licence of occupation to Kindred Spirit Kayak Company Ltd. for 6140-20 FULL kayak rentals and storage at Fuller Lake Park.
Bylaws Bylaw No. 3307 It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council adopt Bylaw No. 3360-20 07.07 3307, being the "Zoning Amendment Bylaw (No. 8 - Richards Trail), 2007."
Bylaw No. 3314 It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council adopt Bylaw No. 5630-50 HER3 3314, being the "Local Area Service (Herd Road Water Main Extension) Bylaw, 2007."
New Business Canada's Olympic Council discussed the letter from The Cowichan News Leader
Page 3 of 5
Page 9 of 71 Minutes - [Date]
Wednesday, November 7, 2007 Regular Council Meeting Minutes
Uniform Pictorial suggesting that the Cowichan sweater should be the uniform of Canada's 2010 Olympic team. Council directed staff to place this letter on a future Council agenda for consideration.
Committee of the Whole Committee of the It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council resolve into a Whole Committee of the Whole meeting (at 3:30 p.m.).
Joint Utilities The Committee reviewed the October 24, 2007 letter from the City 0360-20 JUB of Duncan about 3 resolutions adopted by its Council regarding the Joint Utilities Board.
It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council authorize the Joint Utilities Board (JUB) to increase the previously approved expenditure from up to $190,000 to up to $307,000 from the JUB Reserve Fund, for remedial measures to the lagoon outfall.
It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council ask the Cowichan Valley Regional District to establish a Technical Committee to initiate the Central Sector Liquid Waste Management Plan, and the Central Sector Wastewater Plant and Outfall Siting Studies, related to plant site investigations, outfall pre-design studies, and outfall baseline monitoring; and further, that Council approve including the costs to undertake these studies in the Joint Utilities Board 2008 budget.
Two-Tier Registration The Committee reviewed the Parks and Recreation Director's at the New Aquatic October 18, 2007 report asking Council to reaffirm its commitment Centre to implement a 2-tier registration system at the new pool. 6750-30 COWPL It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council reaffirm its commitment to implement a two-tier registration system at the new aquatic facility; and further, that Council direct staff to provide a report with implementation details; subject to confirmation from the City of Duncan of its commitment.
Nuisance (Controlled It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council refer the issue Substance) Bylaw of the Nuisance (Controlled Substance) Bylaw's requirement for mandatory inspections, to the Protective Services Committee for its review.
Cowichan Centre The Committee reviewed the October 18, 2007 letter from the West Parking Lot Cowichan Centre regarding use of its west parking lot, and noted 0360-20 CC that the CAO will arrange a meeting to discuss use of the parking lot with the Cowichan Exhibition Society and the Cowichan Centre General Manager.
ALR Land Use The Committee reviewed the October 18, 2007 Planner's report Proposal - 8797 regarding an alternative agricultural land use concept by the owner Chemainus Road of 8797 Chemainus Road. 3025-20 07.10 It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council support, in principle, Mr. MacWatt's alternative agricultural land use concept for 8797 Chemainus Road as it is consistent with the Official
Page 4 of 5
Page 10 of 71 Minutes - [Date]
Wednesday, November 7, 2007 Regular Council Meeting Minutes
Community Plan and the Agricultural Strategic Plan policies.
Rise and Report It was moved, seconded and carried, that the Committee rise and report (at 4:15 p.m.), and that this report be adopted.
Closed Session Close Meeting to It was moved, seconded and carried, that Council close the Public remainder of the meeting to the public to consider matters under section 90(1) (c), (e), (f), (g) and (l) of the Community Charter.
Council rose without reporting at 6:30 p.m.
Adjournment The meeting ended at 6:30 p.m.
Certified Correct
Page 5 of 5
Page 11 of 71 Page 12 of 71 Development Variance Permit - 1184 Maple Bay Road
MUNICIPALITY of Notice COWICHAN
Date November 21, 2007 File: 3080-20 07.19 Folio: 9671.000 Time 2:00 p.m.
Place Council Chambers
Meeting Development Variance Permit for 1184 Maple Bay Road
Notice is given under Section 922(4) of the Local Government Act,that the Municipality of North Cowichan proposes to issue a development variance permit at its regular meeting on Wednesday, November 21,2007,2:00 p.m. at the Municipal Hall, 7030 Trans Canada Highway, North Cowichan, BC for 1184 Maple Bay Road.
Purpose of the Permit To vary Section 56(3) of the Zoning Bylaw to reduce the minimum frontage requirement from 30 metres to 27.60 metres for the proposed remainder of a pending subdivision which would create three new lots. (See the proposed subdivision plan on the reverse side)
Subject Property 1184 Maple Bay Road, Parcel Identifier 00CK309-851, (Lot 1, Sectwn 6 and 7, Range 4, ODmiaken District, Plan 34871)
Properties within the 200 ft radius line of the subject property line of thesubject property are required Subject to receive a copy of this notice.
Property *w*B*a^^^
Inspection of Permit A copy of the application, draft permit and related documents may be inspected in the Planning Department on November 1,2,5,6, 7, 8,9,13,14,15,16,19, & 20,2007 between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Decision TTie Municipal Council will consider whether to issue the proposed permit on November 21,2007, at 2:00 p.m., at the Municipal Hall, 7030 Trans Canada Highway, Duncan, BC. If you believe your interests will be affected by the proposed permit you may attend and speak on matters pertinent to the permit You may also provide your written comments to Chris Hall, Director of Planning, [email protected] by 4:30 p.m., November 20,2007.
7030 Trans Canada Highway, Box 278, Duncan, BC V9L 3X4 Ph 250-746-3100 Fax 250-746-3133 www.northcowichan.bc.ca
Page 13 of 71 Page 14 of 71 Development Variance Permit - 1184 Maple Bay Road
Municipality of NORTH COWICHAN
7030 Trans Canada Highway, Box 278 Duncan, BC V9L 3X4
Tel 250 746 3100 Fax 250 746 3133 www.northcowichan.bc.ca Development Variance Permit (07.19)
To: Berkley Borrett
Subject Property: 1184 Maple Bay Road (Folio No. 9671.000)
1. This permit is issued subject to compliance with all the District of North Cowichan bylaws that apply to this permit.
2. This permit applies to the lands described below, and any buildings, structures, and other development thereon (hereinafter called the Lands).
Lot 1, Section 6, Range 4, Comiaken District, Plan 34871 & Section 7
3. Pursuant to Section 922 of the Local Government Act (RSBC 1996, c. 323), this permit varies Section 56(3) of the Zoning Bylaw to reduce the minimum frontage requirement from 30.0 metres to 27.60 metres for the proposed remainder as shown on Appendix 1.
4. This permit is not a building permit.
5. This permit was approved on (date of Council approval), and issued on (date of issue) .
6. This permit will lapse two years from the date of issuance if the permit holder does not substantially start construction with respect to which this permit was issued.
The Corporation of the District of North Cowichan
Designated Municipal Officer (Imprint of Official Seal)
3080_20 07_19_dvp permit_1184 Maple Bay Rd.wpd
Page 15 of 71 Development Variance Permit - 1184 Maple Bay Road
APPENDIX 1 Development Variance Permit 1184 Maple Bay Road
Page 16 of 71 RCMP 3rd Quarter Report
Mayor and Council Report
District of North Cowichan November 15th, 2007
INSPECTOR H.R. GOODRIDGE
Officer in Charge
North Cowichan/Duncan Detachment RCMP
1. THIRD QUARTER CRIME REPORT
Our 2007 3rd Quarter report is attached. When compared to the 2006 3rd Quarter, the number of crimes in most categories are down. Exceptions are Business Break & Enters, which are up 1 from 17 to 18, and the number of Traffic Collisions Over $1,000, which are up 30 from 47 to 77.
However, a number of the categories which are down include those that primarily are the result of enforcement activity, such as Possession of Stolen Property, down 7 from 11 to 4 and Impaired Driving, down 42 from 59 to17. This is, no doubt, reflective of our personnel situation.
There was an expected decrease in several crime types, in comparison to the 2007 2nd Quarter Crime Report, with the arrest of four of our most prolific offenders. Residential Break & Enters were down 44 from 65 in the 2nd Quarter to 21 this Quarter. Theft of Motor Vehicles was down 19 from 39 to 20. A copy of the 2007 2nd Quarter Report is also attached.
See Appendix "1"
2. VICTIM SERVICES
The Victim Services monthly statistics for this quarter as they apply to North Cowichan and Duncan are attached. There were 472 referrals in July, 269 in August and 238 in September. This compares to 379, 376 and 411 for the same months in 2006.
There is no ready explanation for the drop in calls during the months of August and September this year compared to the same two months last year, other than it is the nature of the service being provided.
The Victim Services personnel have taken advantage of the decline in the number of referrals during the last two months of this quarter to review their files and to close those that no longer require action. This will serve to streamline their operation and to provide a clearer picture of the caseloads they are required to manage.
Page 17 of 71 RCMP 3rd Quarter Report
The different reporting format for September 2007 is as the result of the Province adopting the Online Program Records Administration system (OPRA). Every Victim Service program receiving funds from Victim Services and Community Programs Division is now required to utilize this form.
See Appendix "2"
3. COMMUNITY POLICING
The report for the 3 rd Quarter prepared by Carol-Ann Rolls, Manager, Community Policing and Crime Prevention Programs and Projects is attached. The volunteer situation has changed since the presentation of the 2nd Quarter report. Thirteen new volunteers have completed the recruitment/selection process. It increases our roster to 76 volunteers, 67of whom are actively deployed. More applications have been received. These people will be trained in the new year.
As noted in the report, the volunteers are very active in community events throughout the summer months. These involved assisting with foot patrols, information booths and child identification clinics. Speed Watch volunteers also participated with members from South Island Traffic Services with the Crash Corridor Awareness Campaign sponsored by ICBC. The campaign is designed to reduce crashes. It was conducted on July 25th in the 5.7 kilometre stretch of highway between Herd and Boys Roads. A total of 19 violation tickets and 13 written warnings were issued. The good news was that most people checked were traveling below the posted speed limit.
The Community Policing Society as a whole, and Ms. Rolls specifically, received recognition from the Bank of Canada at a ceremony held at the Detachment inoffice September. Plaques were presented in appreciation for the work done educating local business people as well as the public in regard to counterfeit detection and awareness.
See Appendix "3"
H.R. GOODRIDGE, Inspector Officer in Charge North Cowichan/Duncan Detachment
Page 18 of 71 2007 APC Design Award Winners
2007 APC Design Award Winners
Residential Category - Suncraft Construction for the 14 unit townhouse development at 2528 Alexander St. The units are constructed using natural materials, low maintenance landscaping and incorporate a creative use of outdoor space. The 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom units have sold for approx $200,000them making less expensive than a lot of other new developments.
Commercial Category - Averill Creek Winery located 6552 North Road was selected for its contribution to agriculture and agri-tourism. The owner, Andy Johnson, brought 28 acres of landfallow into agricultural production to establish one of the largest vineyards in the Cowichan Valley.
Public Use Category - Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society for the Drinkwater Dock. This is a public access dock designed to have minimal impact on the fish habitat and to increase understanding about the habitat and wildlife values in Somenos Marsh/Lake.
Industrial Category - Catalyst Crofton Mill was selected for its energy savings that have resulted from their sustainable energy management plan. This plan is multifaceted and includes developing a cultural change, understanding usage, reducing waste, improving efficiency and optimizing supply. It considers all energy sources, not just electricity. The goal for 2006 for the Crofton Mill was to save $2m in energy costs, i.e. 2% of energy costs, which they have exceeded. In 2007 they expect to save an additional $2.5 m.
Overall Winner - Averill Creek Winery
Honourable Mentions: Green Communities for the Kinpark Community Garden District of North Cowichan Engineering Department for the roundabouts District of North Cowichan Parks Department for the Dog Park at Beverly and Lakes Road
Page 19 of 71 Page 20 of 71 Road Use Agreement - TimberWest
MUNICIPALITY of NOtlf) Report cowichan
Date October 25, 2007 File 8920-90 TW
To Mayor and Council
From Darrell Frank, RPF, Municipal Forester Endorsed by
Subject Long-term Road Use Agreement with TimberWest
Background TimberWest Forest Company has requested long-term extensions for five existing Road Use Agreements with North Cowichan. The agreements date back to as early as 1999, and as recent as this June.past The Agreements have overlapping coverage of many of the same roads. The terms and conditions in the earlier agreements vary from those done more recently, such as the addition of higher minimums for insurance coverage and references to prime contractor.
The Forestry Department, in reviewing this request by TimberWest, recommends the extension not be granted, butthe Agreements be combined and replaced with one new agreement. The terms ofthe Agreement would include the following:
1. The term of the Agreement would be for a three-year period, with the option of extending this fora further two three-year periods if both parties are in agreement.
2. The Agreement is for forest management activities only.
3. The Agreement is not transferable.
4. The Agreement will cover existing built North Cowichan forestry roads on Mount Prevost and Mount Sicker. In the event of requiring a new road, to be built on North Cowichan's property by TimberWest at their expense, be allowed as an added addendum to the Agreement if both parties are in agreement
5. TimberWest will reimburse North Cowichan for expenses incurred by North Cowichan in maintaining our roads, as a result of their activities, in lieu of user fees, and TimberWest would give the same road use rights to North Cowichan over their roads on Mt. Prevost and Mt. Sicker.
Recommendation
That Council approve the RoadUse Agreement with TimberWest Forest Company for access for forestry purposes on Mt. Prevost and Mt. Sicker, and that the Mayor and Director of Administration be authorized to sign the agreement.
Darrell Frank, RPF Municipal Forester
DJF/rp
Glnp h;r,berWesi.v;pq 7030 Trans Canada Highway, Box278 North Cowichan, BC, V9L3X4 Ph 250-746-3100 Fax250-746-3133 www.northcowichan.bc.ca
Page 21 of 71 Page 22 of 71 Maple Bay Fire Hall Loan
MUNICIPALITY of North Report COWICHAN
Date November 6, 2007 File 3900-50 AAP
To Council
From Mark Ruttan, Director of Administration Endorsed by
Subject Maple Bay Fire Hall Loan
Purpose
The purpose of this report is to recommend that Council pass a resolution to borrow 950,000 dollars through the Municipal Financing Authority to complete construction of the new fire hall for Maple Bay.
Issue
In order to have the Regional District finance this project, it is necessary to pass the recommended resolution.
Background
Council adopted Bylaw No. 3301, being the “Maple Bay Fire Hall Loan Authorization Bylaw, 2007" on September 5, 2007. The Municipality has now received a Certificate of Approval from the Deputy Inspector of Municipalities certifying that the Bylaw has been lawfully and validly made and enacted.
Analysis
Section 182 of the Community Charter requires a municipality that is borrowing money through a loan authorization bylaw to have its regional district undertake the financing through the Municipal Finance Authority of British Columbia.
Recommended Resolution
That Council approve borrowing from the Municipal Finance Authority of British Columbia as part of its spring issue, 950,000 dollars as authorized by “Maple Bay Fire Hall Loan Authorization Bylaw, 2007", No. 3301, and that Council ask the Cowichan Valley Regional District to consent to this borrowing over a 20- year term and include this borrowing in a Security Issuing Bylaw.
mornov06.07raoMBFirehall.wpd 7030 Trans Canada Highway, Box 278 North Cowichan, BC, V9L 3X4 Ph 250-746-3100 Fax 250-746-3133 www.northcowichan.bc.ca
Page 23 of 71 Page 24 of 71 Appointment to 2008 Vancouver Island Regional Library Board
O
CENTRAL SERVICES .VANCOUVER ISLAND Box 3333, 6250 Hammond Bay Rd., Nanaimo BC, Canada V9R 5N3 Phone: (250) 758-4697 Fax: (250) 758-2482 REGIONAL LIBRARY Email: [email protected] Web: www.virl.bc.ca
www.viri.bt.ca
November 6, 2007
His Worship Jon Lefebure, Mayor District of North Cowichan Box 278, 7030 Trans Canada Highway Duncan, BC V9L 3X4 "■ ''"'■■',
Dear Mayor Lefebure and councillors:
Re: Appointment to the 2008 Vancouver Island Regional Library Board
As cornerstones of their communities, our libraries connect people to each other, to their community and to their hopes and dreams. Libraries promote and enrich the democratic, cultural, educational and economic life of your residents.
With the new year not too far off, it is time to consider your appointment or reappointment to the Vancouver Island Regional Library Board. The position is one of great importance, as VIRL is the ninth largest library system in Canada, and serves in excess of 420,000 island residents.
As per provincial legislation (Library Act [RSBC 1996] Chapter 264), certified resolutions must be submitted to VIRL by December 15, along2007, with specific information pertaining to the appointment or reappointment
For your convenience we have included Board Member and Alternate Appointment Forms.
Please send the completed forms and certified copy of the appropriate resolution to the attention of Rosemary Bonanno, Executive Director, in the enclosed self-addressed envelope or by fax (250) 758-2482, or email [email protected]).
Thank you for your continuing support!
Sincerely,
i0^
Rosemary Bonanno Executive Director, Vancouver Island Regional Library
Strong Libraries Strong Communities
Page 25 of 71 Appointment to 2008 Vancouver Island Regional Library Board
.VANCOUVER ISLAND REGIONAL LIBRARY
BOARD MEMBER APPOINTMENT FORM REPRESENTATIVE OF A MUNICIPALITY
The Council of the Municipality of (name)
has appointed Councillor (name) as
the representative on the Vancouver Island Regional Library Board for the year 2008.
TERM OF APPOINTMENT The term of the appointment is for January 1, 2008, to December 31, 2008.
'This is a new appointment approved by Council on: (date)
'This is a reappointment of the Council appointment made on: (date)
This appointment will continue until a successor is appointed, as provided under Section 18(3) of the Library Act, or unless the member is removed for cause as provided under Section 18(4) of the Library Act.
REPRESENTATIVE'S INFORMATION Home address:
Phone Numbers: Home:
Cell Phone (optional): Business (optional):.
Municipal Fax: Other:
Email Addresses: Home (optional):
Council: Other (optional) :
Birthdate: Over 70 years of age Yes No (required for insurance purposes)
STAFF CONTACT Contact Name: Position:.
Signature: Date:
PLEASE ATTACH CERTIFIED COPY OF THE RESOLUTION.
Page 26 of 71 Ministry of Children - Adoption Awareness Month
QC//O-O/
\ RECEIVE British | °8 2007 Columbia district o WlC
November 6, 2007 Ref: 168498
His Worship Mayor Jon Lefebure District of North Cowichan PO Box 278 Duncan BC V9L 3X4
Dear Mayor Lefebure:
Once again, November has been proclaimed as Adoption Awareness Month in British Columbia. In your community and across the province, there are children who need adoptive families. This month provides an opportunity for our respective governments tothe highlight need for every child to have a stable, permanent, loving and nurturing home.
Close to 1,300 children in government care are currently available for adoption. These children deserve to have a family to belong to - someone to help them with their homework, to attend their sports games, and to celebrate every childhood milestone. And after navigating through childhood and adolescence, they will, like most grown children, still need parents to rely on for advice, assistance and encouragement. The bond of a permanent family supports and enriches all family members.
During November, the Ministry of Children and Family Development works to enhance adoption awareness and heighten recruitment efforts to find families for children in our continuing care. Potential adoptive parents are ordinary people residing in neighbourhoods in every community. They come from diverse backgrounds and have a range of life experiences. Single people, married couples and alternative families can all apply to adopt.
Throughout the province, there area variety of community events and awareness displays to publicize the need for more adoptive parents. For more information, please contact the Adoptive Families Association of BC representative in your area; a contact list is enclosed. There are also six licensed adoption agencies in British Columbia who contribute to both adoption awareness and the placement of children. A contact list of those agencies is also enclosed.
,..12
Ministry of Office of the Minister Mailing Address: Location: Children and Family Parliament Buildings Parliament Buildings Development Victoria BC V8V1X4 Victoria
Page 27 of 71 Ministry of Children - Adoption Awareness Month
If you are interested in learning more about adoption, please contact Tom Weber, the ministry's Regional Deputy Director of Adoption for your community, at 250 334-5820.
On behalf of the Ministry of Children and Family Development, thank you for helping us find safe, nurturing and loving homes for our children and youth.
Sincerely,
Tom Christensen Minister
Enclosures
Page 28 of 71 Ministry of Children - Adoption Awareness Month
v British Columbia
The Best Place on Earth FACTSHEET November 2007 Ministry of Children and Family Development
ADOPTION AWARENESS MONTH
• The Government of British Columbia has proclaimed November as Adoption Awareness Month. The Ministry of Children and Family Development is taking this month-long opportunity to raise awareness about children in care who are waiting for an adoptive home, and to recognize adoption as a valued way to build a family.
KEY FACTS
• Children in the permanent care of British Columbia's Ministry of Children and Family Development may be placed for adoption through the ministry. Permanent care occurs when the courts have determined that the child cannot return to the care of their birth parents(s) and a Continuing Custody Order has been granted.
• For children in continuing custody the ministry makes plans for permanency. These plans can include: > Adoption (including foster caregiver adoption: long-term caregivers are encouraged to adopt). > Transfer of custody: this transfers custody of a child to someone with a significant tie to the child. > Ensuring a child has life long connections with significant adults in their lives if adoption or other permanency options are not in the child's best interest.
• Over the past four years, an average of 300 children have found permanent families through adoption each year. In 2002/2003,348 children were adopted, which was the highest annual total since the 1980s. Still, there areclose to 1,300 children in care waiting for a permanent family.
• Many of the children available for adoption are school-age. They may be siblings who need tostay together. Some may have specialneeds placement due to difficult early childhood experiences, prenatal exposure to alcohol or drugs, learning delays, or other developmental challenges.
• Potential adoptive parents come from diverse backgrounds and have arange of life experiences. Anyone who is interested in providing a loving, nurturing home is encouraged to apply to adopt.
• We strive to place children with families that preserve a child's ethnic and cultural heritage. As culture is essential to a child's positive identity formation and preservation, we need adoptive parents who reflect British Columbia's cultural diversity, and adoptive parents who are willing to maintain life-long connections with the child's cultural community.
• The number of Aboriginal children placed with Aboriginal families has more than doubled - 65 percent in 2006/2007 from 27.3 percent in 2000/2001.
Page 29 of 71 Ministry of Children - Adoption Awareness Month
• The ministry works with community partners (including the Adoptive Families Association of BC and the six licensed adoption agencies) to increase the number of approved adoption homes for children in care. The Adoptive Families Association of BC is contracted to provide both pre-adoptive and post-adoptive support. They also provide assistance with recruitment initiatives such as answering the 1-877-ADOPT-07 phone line.
POST ADOPTION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
• The Post Adoption Assistance Program supports families in meeting the special needs of their adopted families.
• In 2004/2005, families received funding through the Post Adoption Assistance Program of approximately $10.5 million.
• In certain circumstances, maintenance funding is also available to help families in financial need. Monthly maintenance rates are approximately $700 for a child under 12 and $800 for a child over 12.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
• People interested in adopting are invited to speak to a social worker or attend an initial information session in their area. If applicants are interested in pursuing the adoption process they will receive more information regarding the needs of waiting children through the Adoption Education Program and an in-depth home study process.
• To find out more about the adoption process and the needs of British Columbia's waiting children call 1 877 ADOPT 07 or visit the ministry's Web site located at: www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/adoption/index.htm.
Page 30 of 71 Local Government Program - Community Tourism Program
Local Government Program Services .. .programs to address provincial-local government shared priorities
Union of Bkiiisii Columbia Municipalities November 8, 2007 ! IV E D I
Mayor Jon Lefebure and Council NUV 1 4 2007 Administration provided District of North Cowichan by UBC.V1 7030 Trans Canada Highway DISTRICl OF NORTH COWJCI Funding provided by: Duncan, BC V9L 3X4 Province of B.C. Dear Mayor Lefebure and Council:
RE: COMMUNITY TOURISM PROGRAM (PHASE 1)
BRITISH I am pleased to advise that your application for funding through Columbia Phase 1 of the 2005 Community Tourism granting program is now The Best Place on Earth approved in the amount of $ 79,483.
For program With the amount set aside for this project, there is a $20,517.00 balance information, visit in your phase 1 allocation. We have approved your request to apply this balance to enhance phaseyour 2 allocation. www.civicnet.bc.ca under Programs & Services A cheque for $ 56,612.25, representing 75% of the approved grant amount, will follow. Acceptance of this grant indicates agreement to Local Government the terms and conditions of Program, as per section 6.4 of the Program Program Services and Application Guide.
The balance will be forwarded on receipt of a satisfactory final report. LGPS Secretariat UBCM is administering this program, and funding has been provided Municipal House by the Province of British Columbia. 545 Superior St Victoria BC V8V 1X4 Reporting must be completed before final payment is provided by Phone: 250 356-5134 UBCM, and the reporting must demonstrate that the funding was used Fax: 250 356-5119 to improve tourism activity in the community. This report may contain but not be limited to the following:
• A description of the completed project; • Statistical data around number of visits or anticipated visitor traffic based on enhanced services or available activities; • Projected revenues; • Quantity of products produced; and • Anecdotal information or media dippings.
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Page 31 of 71 Local Government Program - Community Tourism Program
2005 Community Tourism Phase 1 Page 2
In addition, a statement from the Chief Financial Officer, verifying the total cost of the project is also required. Where applicable, this statement should also identify other contributions such as "in-kind", matching funding, or other revenue sources required to complete this project. The balance of funding will be paid on receipt of a satisfactory reporting package.
If you have any questions or concerns, or wish to vary your project in any way, please contact me at 250 356-5134.
We wish you every success with your project.
Sincerelv,
Sue Clark Program Officer
Page 32 of 71 The Council of Canadians - Trade, Investment & Labour Mobili...
THE LE RECEIVED Council CONSEIL NUV ! 4 2007 | of Canadians DES CANADIENS November 7, 2007 Dear Mayor and Councilors:
Re: Passage of A3 and Policy Paper #4 at the Union of British Columbia Municipalities
Greetings from the Council of Canadians. The Council of Canadians has been working through our chapters in the province with municipalities to question the Trade, Investment ad Labour Mobility Agreement and its potential impacts on local decision making. Signedmaking. in secret by the premiers of British Columbia and Alberta, investigation shows that TILMA will dramatically impact a municipality's ability to maintain any regulations that have been passed locally but are deemed by an investor to 'impair or restrict' their investment, regardless of the manner or method behind the regulation. In the TILMA, investors are granted the right to launch a lawsuit, for up to $5milHon.
In response to several resolutions passed through the spring and summer at the local level the UBCM commissioned a report by trade lawyer Don Lidstone to assess TILMA's impacts on municipalities. Mr. Lidstone's report to the UBCM becan read here: hup://ubcm.fileproshe.com/contentengine/launch.asp?ID=3155&Action=bvpass After the development of his analysis paper (April 30, 2007), Mr. Lidstone then developed Policy Paper #4 (http://ubcm.fileprosite.com/contcntenGine/laiinch.asp?lD=3155'i
Despite the Ministry's organization of a pre-UBCM convention workshop to try to quash the concerns of municipalities, on September 26 the UBCM membership near- unanimously passed resolution A3 'Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement (TILMA)' from the city of Creston. The text from the resolution follows this letter.
The A3 resolution passing was a huge success for local government and citizen democracy, and the Council of Canadians commends all municipal council members and mayors who spoke out theagainst TILMA agreement.
I encourage you to read through the enclosed fact sheet, and please do not hesitate to be in touch if you have any further questions. We will continue to work with the UBCM Executive to enforce the demands in Policy Paper #4. Materials, news reports and the growing number of media stories on TILMA can be found on our website at: http://vvww.canadians.ora/Dl/issues/TILMA/index.htinl
Best regards,
Carleen Pickard BC/Yukon Regional Organizer Council of Canadians
700 -170, av. Laurier Ave WkI/Ouk! Ottawa Oil KIP 5V5 Tel: (613) 233-2773 or/oui-BOO-387-7177 FaxAelec: (613) 233-6776 E-mcil/Courricr Elecironique: [email protected]
Page 33 of 71 The Council of Canadians - Trade, Investment & Labour Mobili...
A3 Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement (TILMA)- Creston
Whereas the provincial governments of British Columbia and Alberta have entered into a Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement (TILMA), which came into effect on April 1, 2007 and which is intended to liberalize trade, investment and labour mobility beyond the level provided by the Agreement on Internal Trade that was brought into effect for British Columbia on March 31, 2002;
AND WHEREAS TILMA has the potential to have far reaching negative impacts on local government objectives:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Union of BC Municipalities review the Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement between British Columbia and Alberta, and enter into discussions with the provincial government and localwith governments, the intent of either making changes to the agreement to more specifically address local government concerns, exempt local governments from the agreement, or request that the Province withdraw from the agreement altogether.
Page 34 of 71 The Council of Canadians - Trade, Investment & Labour Mobili...
OF CflNABIANS "* Z DE5CANADIENS
A bad deal for municipalities TILMA's attack on local democracy September 2007
Citizens in British Columbia are very concerned about the Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement (TILMA). With its claims that there should be "no obstacles" to trade and investment, and its undemocratic dispute resolution proc ess whose decisions will be binding on local and provincial governments, TILMA hands too much power to the business sector to shape public policy. /-,
This week, you wiil be voting on a resolution from the^w^>aston that would commit the Union of British Columbia Municipalities to negotiate significant changes to TILMA wffl^^fen^ein order to address the agreement's many flaws. Ideally, we feel that municipalities should demand permaneVrt^Mion from the provisions of TILMA. Alternately, the UBCM has somemade very good recommendations on three key fWes in a recent executive policy paper dated September5, 2007:
Procurement: The UBCM must ensure that local governments are exempt from the requirement that procurement must give the highest level of consideration to "like, directlyor competitive, substitutabie goods; persons; services and investors or investments." As written, TILMA provides aconsiderable window for corporate challenges to local, ethical or environ mental purchasing policies. Vancouver's ethical procurement policy clearly violates TILMA's rules and would likely not survive a TILMA challenge.
Harmonization: The UBCM must ensure that local governments are exempt from the requirement to reconcile standards and regulations. There is a reason that TILMA has been called "everything Canadian business asked for." It's because it allows corporationsallows to operate under the most lenient restrictions in either province. To 'mutually recognize or otherwise reconcile their existing standards and regulations," as TILMA requires each province to do, is to set the lower standard as the norm.
Dispute Resolution: The UBCM must demand that municipalities have the toright defend their own measures at TILMA panels, and that they be exempt from paying penalties or repealing constitutionally valid measures that are found by dispute panels to be in breach of the agreement. Furthermore, TILMA's dispute process bemust amended to include a provision protecting governments against vexatious and frivolous claims similar to the provision in the Agreement on Internal Trade.
As citizens of British Columbia, we are pleased that the UBCM's executive policy paper shares our concerns with TILMA. We encourage you to say "yes" to the resolution from Creston and to push the Province on the three key issues of pro curement, harmonization and dispute resolution listed above.
Should the province fail to move on these issues, particularly with respect to municipal and other government entity par ticipation in the dispute resolution process, it will complete the case for a permanent exemption for municipal governments from TILMA. UBCM members can provide leadership and support to smaller government entities like school boards and health authorities, which are also facing the same undemocratic provisions in TILMA.
Page 35 of 71 The Council of Canadians - Trade, Investment & Labour Mobili...
The ^ ^M CONSEIL of Canadians "* r des
I
TILMA: Myths and realities
Myth: Under TILMA, different standards and regulations may continue and there is no requirement to de-regulate or harmonize to Alberta's regulations or standards.
Reality: Article 5.1 of TILMA says that governments must "mutually recognize or otherwise reconcile their existing stand ards and regulations." Former MinisterIndustry Maxime Bernier explained what this means to a Senate banking committee on December 14, 2006. Bernier said that TILMAs mutual recognition rules will put regulators, including local governments, in competition with each other to attract business. With mutual recognition, businesses will hare theoption of choosing which province's regulations they want to operate under. This is great for the corporate bottom line, because it allows corporations to choose the weakest regulations. From an environmental, public health or consumer protection perspective it simply means 'lowest common denominator" standards.
Myth: AgreementThe does not require changes to land use decisions applying to areas like sign bylaws, building height restrictions, zoning, agricultural land reserves orparks, unless they are discriminatory.
Reality: Article 3 of TILMA states that governments cannot 'restrict or impair trade... or investment or labour mobility between the Parties.' TILMA's definition of "investment" doesn't just cover financial assets but also "the establishment acquisition or expansion of an enterprise." So local government bylaws that limit residential or commercial development violate Article 3 because they restrict the establishment or expansion of a real estate enterprise, even though these bylaws do not discriminate between local and non-local businesses.
Myth: Municipalities will not be forced to pay a fine, or to rescind a measure, when a TILMA panel rules against that measure.
Reality: The B.C. government has said that it expects local governments to comply with their obligations under TILMA. And Article 27.12 of TILMA clearly states that "The final report of the panel is binding on the disputants." Strictly speaking, the provincial government cannot force a municipality to rescind its laws or pay a TILMA fine. Buta report by Donald Lidstone has recommended several ways that the Province could secure compliance. One is to impose TILMA-related conditions to provincial grants. Another is to seek indemnity from a municipality that contravenes a TILMA provision that results in a monetary penalty. As Economic Development Minister Colin Hansen put it, fretting city councilors "might as well save their breath."
Myth: B.C. needs TILMA.
Reality: TILMA was premised on athoroughly discredited Conference Board of Canada survey that promises $5-billion in savings and almost 80,000 jobs for B.C. alone. According economists Marc Leeand Erin Weir, these projected benefits are "implausibly large,11 onbased a tiny survey of B.C. businesses and government ministries. "No literature, data, interviews with companies, or lists of alleged barriers are presented,' they say., adding that the Conference Board's $5-billion figure is the ofresult an arithmetic error, "Even after correcting this error," say the economists, "most ofthe projected benefits are from industries exempt from the agreement or from industries that barely engage in inter-provincial trade." This assessment agrees with a 1998 study done for the B.C. government that suggests, 'efforts to liberalize inter-provincial trade will have almost no effect on trade flows," and that "the reality is thatinter-provincial trade barriers are already very low;'
So does B.C. really need TILMA? Clearly it does not,
For more information about the Council of Canadians, call 1-800-387-7177 or email [email protected].
Page 36 of 71 Ministry of Community Services - Traffic Fine Revenue Sharin...
11/15/2007 09:15FAX 250 356 1873 LOCALGOV'T DEPT, 1^001/002
BRITISH £CMf' Columbia The Best Place on Earth
Ref: 124772
November 13,2007
BY FAX - 250 746-3133
His Worship Mayor Jon Lefebure and Members of Council District of North Cowichan Box 27S Duncan, BC V9L 3X4
Dear Mayor Lefebure and Councillors:
Further to my letter of May 25, 2007,1 am pleased to inform you that the 2007/08 Traffic Fine Revenue Sharing (TFRS) Grant of $300,127 for the District of North Cowichan will be transferred to your account shortly. ^The qmrv\ la s+year was ^Z44,#£7)-
Since the expansion of the TFRS program in 2004, more than $198 million in traffic fine revenues have been returned to municipalities for investment in policing, crime prevention and community safety. In response to the Ministry of Community Services' (Ministry) request for information about how municipalities across British Columbia have used the additional funds, 66 of 71 municipalities have submitted reports to date.
The reports show that municipalities have added over 550 new police positions since 2003and an increasing number are hiring civilian complaint takers and bylaw officers to ease police workload and increase police presence in their communities.
Innovations in service delivery was an overriding theme this year as numerous municipalities demonstrated new and exciting ways of addressing community safety. One municipality is utilizing hybrid police vehicles in an effort to attain carbon neutrality; another is introducing a junior firefighters program, allowing students to learn and earn credits toward training as firefighters; and another municipality is offering free bicycle helmets to financially disadvantaged youth and their families.
...12
Ministry of Community Services Office of the Minister Mailing Address: Location: and Minister Responsible for PO Box 9056 Stn Prov Govt Room 323 Seniors' and women's Issues Victoria BC V6W 9E2 Parliament Buildings Victoria Phone; 250 387-2283 Fax: 250 387-4312 www.gov.bc.ca/cserv
Page 37 of 71 Ministry of Community Services - Traffic Fine Revenue Sharin...
11/15/2007 09:16 FAX 250 356 1873 LOCAL GOV'T DEPT. ©002/002
His Worship Mayor Jon Lefebure and Members of Council Page 2
Once theagain, Ministry intends to publish the reports on our website at: http://www>cserv.gov.bc.ca/lgd/policv research/tfrs/reportsQ7.htrn. enabling local govennnents to share their recent innovations in policing, information and best practices.
I commend the municipalities that have already submitted thoughtful reports. I also strongly urge those that have not yet done so, to provide a report as soon as possible that is suitable for public review.
Thank you for your continued leadership and contribution to making British Columbia the best place on earth.
Sincerely,
Ida Chong, FCCyA Minister
Page 38 of 71 Citizen's Group - Chemainus Wharf Fee Increase
November 16, 2007
Dear Mayor and Council, We are writing to you concerning the proposed increase in fees for the Chemainus Boat Basin. We accept that there must be some moorage fee increases at the Chemainus Boat Basin, and agree with recommended increases for the transient moorage; however, we believe that inaccurate figures initially supplied by the Finance department have peoplemisled into thinking it is necessary to increase fees for monthly tenants by a whopping 50% increase, to be applied all at once.
We would ask you to consider the following facts before making your decision: o As shown in the attached spread sheet using the Director of Finance's own projected expense figures for Chemainus Wharf, an increase of 5% per year over 5 years is entirely adequate to cover all expenses, provide Capital Cost Amortization, and still produce a $5088.50 surplus. Why would Council recommend a 50% increase which will generate a surplus of over $50,000? o A large moorage rate increase imposed without reasonable, graduated steps would impose agreat hardship on the local boating public many who are retired and / or low income. The Western Infrastructure Grant recently used to improve this facility was partially provided to meet local needs", not as an excuse to raise rates so average income locals would be pushed out. e This increase has been recommended to the Harbours Commission by the Wharfinger who receives 25% commission from moorage rates and stands to gain over $32,000 from this 5-year proposal. This conflict of interest would reflect very badly in the public eye. o We note that as little as a 5% increase for long term moorage and a 17.60% increase for transients would balance the books, making the Chemainus Wharf self sustaining over the next five years, which was the municipality's original intention.
We respectfully request that Council not support the recommended large and un necessary rate increase, and instead support a graduated, more moderate moorage increase for long term monthly tenants that is more in keeping with the average rate of $2.98 per foot charged at other municipal and community wharves for long term moorage (see chart).
Sincerely, Charles Ayers, David and Sarah Mais, Tom and Denise Jamison, Hugh and Jane Walton, Brian and Dawn Francoeur, Alan and Beryl Whitaker, Peter Luckham, John Potts, Robert and Maryann Millard and Eric Thomsen.
Please note that you have already received letters and petitions representing the voices of about 300 other concerned residents, from the general community and the Chemainus Rod and Gun, who support our position.
Page 39 of 71 Page 40 of 71 Aquannis Centre 2008 Annual Budget
Recreation. Sports. CuLture.
2687 James Street, Duncan, BC V9L 2X5 Tel: (250) 748-7529 Fax: (250) 748-0054 [email protected] www.cowichancentre.bc.ca
November 13,2007 1 MOM 1 b Mayor and Council Corporation of the District of North Cowichan P.O. Box 278 Duncan, BC V9L 3X4
Your Worship and Members of Council:
Re: Proposed 2008 Cowichan Centre and Aquannis Centre Animal Budgets
At the Thursday, November 8, 2007 Cowichan Centre Commission meeting, the following resolutions were adopted:
1. That the proposed Cowichan Centre 2008 Annual Budget, with a Requisition of $2,722,774. be referred to the Cowichan Valley Regional District Board for adoption; and 2. That any actual surplus in excess of the projected Cowichan Centre 2007 Annual Budget's actual year end surplus be transferred to the Cowichan Centre Reserve Fund; and 3. That the proposed Aquannis Centre 2008 Annual Budget, with a Requisition of $907,891. be referred to the District of North Cowichan and City of Duncan Councils for adoption.
Please note, attached please find copies of the Cowichan Centre and Aquannis Centre proposed 2008 Annual Budgets. Please also note the Aquannis Centre's proposed 2008 AnnualBudget was prepared, with exception of the twelve month 2008 CVRD Allocation charges, toreflect a January- October 2008 (10 month) program year.
Yours
R.T. (Ron) Austen General Manager
Rta\ap End.
p.c. M. Kueber, Treasurer, CVRD 1 City of Duncan
C VCCC lii- 07 Mayors & Councils re Annual iiuifgeis
Page 41 of 71 Aquannis Centre 2008 Annual Budget
Overview of the Aquannis Centre 2008 DRAFT Budget to assist with Priority Settings
Aquannis Centre total budget includes 1 function - 430
Annual Budget Annual Budget Budget Expenditdures: 2006 2007 2008
Core Expenditures:
Wages and Benefits
Maint ./repairs/operating/programs
CVRD Gov't Allocations
Utilities and Insurance
Contingency
Core expenditures: less UserFees
Net Core Expenditures:
Decisions Made:
Capital 5,000 4,326
Decisions Required: None None None
Total Expenditures: $887,248 $914,673 $910,635
(Surplus)/Deficit ($67,515) ($24,784) ($2,744)
Contract for Service $819,733 $889,889 $907,891
Page 42 of 71 Aquannis Centre 2008 Annual Budget
Ove--'ew of the Aquannis Centre 2008 DRAFT Budget to assist with Priority Settings
Notes:
Core Expenditures:
1) Wages and Benefits:
- Projected 2008 Increases from 2007: Exempt Salaries + 5% Union Wages + 4%
- Program Year Budgeted on January 1 to October 31 - Abbreviated Year
2) Maint/repairs/operation/programs:
- 2008 Budget Year reduced to incorporate Abbreviated Year
3) CVRD Gov't Allocations: Annual 2007 2008 Budget $07/08 +/-
2008 Budget Year 12 months
. General Gov't Allocation $52,489 $55,357 $2,868 Information Technology $17,392 $18,485 $1,093 Human Resources $17,078 $24,937 $7,859 Cowichan Centre Allocation $82,041 $82,938 $897
5) Core Revenue - User Fees .
- Based on January 01 to October 31 Abbreviated Year
Page 43 of 71 Page 44 of 71 Minutes - November 5
MUNICIPALITY of North Minutes COWICHAN
Meeting Administration and Finance Committee
Date November 5, 2007
Time 2:00 p.m.
Place Large Committee Room, Municipal Hall
Members Present Mayor J. Lefebure, Chair; Councillors A. Murray and D. Haywood
Also Present Councillors M. Hailley and G. Seymour
Staff Present J. Dias, Chief Administrative Officer, M. Ruttan, Director of Corporate Services, and M. Frame, Director of Finance
Agenda The Committee approved the agenda, as amended.
Minutes The Committee adopted the minutes of the meeting held September 10, 2007.
Presentations A delegation from the Duncan/Cowichan Chamber of Commerce consisting of Mike Watkins, President; Glen Naylor, Past President; Cathy Mailhot, Manager; and Mark Moore, made a presentation to request the uncommitted balance of the 2007 Community Tourism Funding. Mr. Watkins explained that the Chamber had hired Mr. Moore to assist in identifying and developing potential sites for a new Visitor Information Centre and office. Mr. Watkins gave an update on progress to date.
Recommended Resolution : that Council allocate the unallocated 2007 Community Tourism Funding of $21,500 to the Duncan/Cowichan Chamber of Commerce for identifying and developing potential sites for a new Visitor Information Centre and office. (File: 0250-20 UBCM)
Business:
Accounts Lists No. The Committee received Accounts List 16 in the amount of $1,554,348.21; 16, 17 and 18 Accounts List 17 in the amount of $852,164.68; and, Accounts List 18 in the amount of $1,905,454.24.
Annual Tax Sale The Director of Finance reported that there had been no tax sale for 2007. All Report properties had paid their delinquent taxes by September 24, 2007.
Victoria Chinese The Committee reviewed a letter from the Victoria Chinese Commerce Commerce Association requesting a grant to celebrate 150 years of Chinese Canadian Association - contribution to Canada. The Committee noted the request did not meet the Request for Grant criteria for the Municipality’s grants policy. (File: 1670-01)
Page 1 of 3
Page 45 of 71 Minutes - November 5
November 5, 2007 Administration and Finance Committee Minutes
Nature Conservancy The Committee reviewed a letter from Nature Conservancy Canada requesting - Elkington Home assistance in the proposed restoration of the Elkington House, 1241 Maple Bay Rd.
Recommended Resolution: that Council direct staff to prepare a bylaw to designate 1241 Maple Bay Road as a Heritage Property. (File:3900-50 HERIT)
Don Hatton Dakar The Committee reviewed an email from Don Hatton requesting assistance in Rally - Request for promoting the Valley during the Lisbon to Dakar Rally. Funds Recommendation: that the email from Don Hatton dated October 6, 2007, requesting assistance in promoting the Cowichan Valley during the Lisbon to Dakar Rally, be forwarded to the CVRD Economic Development Commission. (File: 1850-01.07)
Cowichan Recommended Resolution: that Council provide an E.J. Hughes framed print Therapeutic Riding to the Cowichan Therapeutic Riding Association as an auction item for their 12 th Association - Annual Dinner Auction, March 8 th , 2008. (File: 1850-01.07) Request for Donation
New Business:
Late Item: The Committee Considered a letter from FutureCorp Cowichan requesting FutureCorp $2,000 to fund a visioning and planning process to create a legacy of new, Cowichan - respectful and productive relationships between aboriginal and non-aboriginal Partnership Plan people in our community. The Committee noted that North Cowichan is already supporting this initiative as part of the CVRD.
Recommendation: that Council advise FutureCorp Cowichan that the Municipality of North Cowichan has already participated in the “Joining of the Cowichans” through it’s membership in the CVRD.
BC Forest Discovery The Committee reviewed an email from the BC Forest Discovery Centre Centre - Funding requesting that they be considered for funding when the Municipality allocates request 2008 the Phase 2 of the Community Tourism Funding. The BCFDC requires funding to Community Tourism renovate their concession to bring it up to standard and to install a parking lot off Funding of Drinkwater Rd.
Recommended Resolution: that, the funding request from the BC Forest Discovery Centre for their concession renovation and parking lot projects be referred to a special meeting to discuss Phase 2 Community Tourism Funding. (File: 0250-20 UBCM)
Closed Session The Committee closed the meeting to the public at 3:05 p.m. to consider matters under Section 90 (1)(e) of the Community Charter , and rose without reporting at 3:25 p.m.
Page 2 of 3
Page 46 of 71 Minutes - November 5
Administration and Finance Committee Minutes November 5, 2007
Adjournment The meeting ended at 3:25 p.m.
Next Meeting The next meeting will be held November 19, 2007
Certified correct
Signature of recording secretary Chair or presiding member
Page 3 of 3
Page 47 of 71 Page 48 of 71 Minutes - October 26
MUNICIPALITY of North Minutes COWICHAN
Meeting Advisory Planning Commission
Date October 26, 2007
Time 12:15 p.m.
Place Large Committee Room
Members Present Hiram Beaubier, Chair; David Hladik, Carol Donnelly, Jon Lefebure (ex-officio) (comprising a quorum)
Members Absent Gilles Villeneuve, Harvey Elbe, Kevin Bavaro
Staff Present Brigid Reynolds, Planner
Agenda The Committee approved the agenda as circulated.
Minutes The Committee adopted the minutes of the meeting held October 5, 2007.
Business:
Design Awards The Commission undertook site visits for the nominations. Final selections will be made at a special meeting to be held on November 2, 2007, and awards will be granted at the November 21, 2007 regular Council meeting.
New Business:
Building Statistics Commission members asked if it would be possible to identify the neighbourhood in the Building Permit Statistics. Planning staff will forward this request to the Building Department.
Adjournment The meeting ended at 2:45
Next Meeting The next meeting will be held November 23, 2007
Certified correct
Signature of recording secretary Chair or presiding member
Page 1 of 1
Page 49 of 71 Page 50 of 71 Minutes - November 8
MUNICIPALITY of North Minutes COWICHAN
Meeting Environmental Advisory Committee
Date Thursday, November 8, 2007
Time 4:30 p.m.
Place Large Committee Room
Members Present Mayor Jon Lefebure, Chair, David Preikshot, Peter Nix, Michelle Vessey, Derrick Hill (comprising a quorum)
Members Absent Harry Williams, Wanda Miller
Staff Present Clay Reitsma, Assistant Municipal Engineer
Previous Minutes The Committee adopted the Environmental Advisory Committee minutes of the meeting held September 13, 2007.
Information Items: The Assistant Municipal Engineer reminded the Committee members about the purpose of the information items section. Submissions for the agenda are vetted by the Mayor and staff. If the item is new or not linked to a current business item, then it is included in the Information Items list. If other Committee Members want to research the item further, staff will forward a copy to the member. If the Committee agrees that the item warrants being placed on a subsequent agenda as a business item, then the item will be moved to the Business section for the designated meeting.
Business:
Global Warming Action Peter Nix made a presentation to the Committee on how the Committee Climate Change could move forward with climate change initiatives. Members of the public present at the meeting also provided some ideas for consideration. The following three initiatives were discussed:
1) Lot level initiatives (public education about greenhouse gas emissions and how to reduce them at the homeowner level). 2) Local government level initiatives (bylaws, OCP, rebate programs, etc.). 3) National and global initiatives (lobbying higher levels of government to enact policies and regulations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions).
Items 1 and 2 can be dealt with by researching other local governments to determine what works and what does not work.
The Committee also discussed the idea of establishing current greenhouse gas emission levels for the purpose of monitoring the net impact of the District’s greenhouse gas emissions reduction activities over the years. There are computer models of varying complexity available to do that. Further consideration of this idea is required.
The Committee resolved to have staff review the plan next steps as presented by Peter Nix, and report back to the Committee.
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Thursday, November 8, 2007 Environmental Advisory Committee Minutes
Adjournment The meeting ended at 6:30 p.m.
Next Meeting The next meeting will be held at the call of the Chair.
Signature of Chair or presiding member Signature of Recording Secretary
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Page 52 of 71 Minutes - November 9
MUNICIPALITY of North Minutes COWICHAN
Meeting Forestry Advisory Committee
Date November 9, 2007
Time 8:00 a.m.
Place Large Committee Room - Municipal Hall
Members Present Wayne Coombs, Chairman; Eric Jeklin; Mayor Jon Lefebure (ex-officio) Councillor Ruth Hartmann; (comprising a quorum)
Members Absent Mark Carter; Councillor Melissa Hailey
Also Present Councillor Anne Murray
Staff Present D. Frank, Municipal Forester; M. Ruttan, Director of Administration
Agenda The Committee approved the agenda as circulated.
Minutes The Committee adopted the minutes of the meeting held on April 10, 2007, and reviewed the list of items requiring action from that meeting.
Business
Reports The Committee reviewed the First, Second, and Third Quarter Reports for the Forestry Department.
The Forester noted that the Forestry program has harvested approximately 18,000m³, and the net revenue from the Forestry operations this year will total approximately $702,000. As a result, the volume target may be achieved, but the revenue target will be off somewhat due to the market downturn over the past several months from plummeting U.S. housing starts and a strong Canadian dollar. (File: 8930-20 ANN)
Current Affairs The Forester informed the Committee of the following: < that recent slash burning was very successful due to favourable atmospheric conditions, and no fire escapes or mop up costs < the value-added woodworking contest is underway, and this year’s requirement is to build a jewellery box out of local maple wood < a special radio frequency has been assigned to the Forestry Department, which should aid in safety < given the current market and the strong Canadian dollar, the 2008 budget will be more conservative, and likely need to draw on Forest Reserve Funds in order to balance the budget (File: 8850-45) Audit Chairman Coombs reported that the Volunteer Foresters conducted an Audit on October 17, 2007, and that he hopes to present the Audit report by mid December. (File: 0360-20 FAC AU)
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November 9, 2007 Forestry Advisory Committee Minutes
Road Construction The Committee reviewed a letter from TimberWest Forest Company, dated July 11, 2007, proposing that the Municipality pay 50% of the Bypass Road construction costs. The Committee also reviewed a memo from the Municipal Forester, dated November 8, 2007, recommending that North Cowichan share 40% of the road construction costs. The Committee directed the Forester and Mark Carter to meet with TimberWest to review the cost sharing proposal, and form a recommendation back to the Committee. (File: 8920-80 MTP)
Closed Session The Committee closed the meeting to the public under section 90(1)(e) of the Community Charter at 9:05 a.m. to discuss a matter of potential property acquisition and disposition.
The Committee rose without reporting at 9:39 a.m.
Fire Control Cost The Committee reviewed a letter, dated August 14, 2007, from the Minister of Sharing Forests and Range regarding fire control cost-sharing agreements with the BC Forest Service. The Committee also reviewed a draft fire control cost-sharing agreement. (File: 8830-40 2007)
Recommended Resolution: that Council approve the proposed fire control cost-sharing agreement with the Forest Protection Branch of the Ministry of Forests, and authorized the Mayor and Director of Administration to sign the agreement on behalf of the Municipality.
Forest Use Bylaw The Committee reviewed the draft Forest Use Bylaw and a schedule from the Municipal Ticketing Informaiton Bylaw setting out offenses and fines for violating the Forest Use Bylaw. (File: 3900-50 FOR)
Recommendation: that the Committee direct staff to put the draft Forest Use Bylaw and an amendment to the Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw before Council for consideration.
Bio-solids The Committee reviewed e-mails and a brochure regarding the application of Management bio-solids from sewage treatment plants to fertilize trees in the Municipal Forest, and directed the Forester to investigate this matter further and present a report at the next Committee meeting. (File: 8900-80 SLUD)
Hang Gliding The Committee reviewed a letter, dated July 4, 2007, from the Island Soaring Society requesting access to Mt. Prevost during periods of forest closures. The Committee directed the Forester to write to the Society to reaffirm that the Society may have access to Mt. Prevost as set out in the terms of its Licence of Occupation, and may not access the Mountain during periods of forest closures during the fire season. (File: 8920-90 ISS)
Friends of Maple The Committee received and filed a brief e-mail from Councillor Hailey regarding Mountain a citizen’s interest in starting a “Friends of Maple Mountain” group. Chairman Coombs stressed the need to provide background for topics referred to the Committee. (File: 8920-20 MAP)
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Page 54 of 71 Minutes - November 9
Forestry Advisory Committee Minutes November 9, 2007
Ecological Reserve The Committee reviewed a letter from the Cowichan Land Trust Society, dated May 18, 2007, urging preservation of lands surrounding the Mt. Tzouhalem Ecological Reserve. The Committee discussed how this may impact the operation of the Forest Reserve on Mt. Tzouhalem, and directed staff to write to the Society and ask for a copy of its goals and mandate before the Committee considers this request further. (File: 8920-40 TZO)
Clematis Brush The Committee reviewed a report from the Forester, dated November 2, 2007, Problem regarding the challenge to curb clematis in conifer plantations within the Forest Reserve. The Committee directed the Forester to explore the use of herbicides to manage this localized noxious vine. (File:8900-60 HER)
Funding Opportunity The Committee discussed whether to participate with the BC Forest Discovery Centre, Malaspina University-College, and others to promote forest sector employment. Councillor Murray undertook to research this topic and bring a recommendation forward to a future Committee meeting. (File:0250-20 BCFM)
Stoney Hill Power The Committee reviewed a memo from the Forester, dated November 8, 2007, regarding the location of a power line to service homes on the Maple Bay peninsula. (File: 8920-20 STO)
Recommended Resolution: that Council direct staff to determine the best location for a powerline right-of-way to service properties on the Maple Bay peninsula, and directed the Forester to plan to clear an additional strip of land adjacent to the right-of-way to eliminate the potential of timber blow down on the power lines.
Information Items The Committee received, for information, the following items: < Thank you letters S National Forestry Week funding - $500.00 donation for September 23 celebration at BC Forest Discovery Centre S Frances Kelsey Secondary, Cowichan Secondary, Emma Koch and Fernando Polanco for Forest Legacy Scholarship and Bursary 2007 S Experience Cycling Club - Maple Mountain use for cross country race on May 6, 2007 S Mount Prevost Middle School - Use of Mount Prevost for October 5 Prevost-a-thon < Value-added contest winners for 2007 < Catalyst Paper’s Crofton Mill - Press release for $3,000.00 funding to North Cowichan for reforestation on a Maple Mountain cut block < Stoney Hill Resident - complaint on poor roads and a gate on a private property < City of Duncan - Junior Council resolution for a trail to Mt. Prevost from Duncan < BC Forestry Capital call for applications for 2008
Next Meeting The next meeting will be held at the call of the Chair.
Adjournment The meeting ended at 10:50 a.m.
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Page 55 of 71 Minutes - November 9
November 9, 2007 Forestry Advisory Committee Minutes
Certified correct
Signature of recording secretary Chair or presiding member
Page 4 of 4
Page 56 of 71 Minutes - November 8
MUNICIPALITY of North Minutes COWICHAN
Meeting Harbours Commission File: 0550-20 HAR
Date November 8, 2007
Time 12:15 p.m.
Place Council Chambers
Members Present Mayor Jon Lefebure, Chair; Bruce Anderson; Phil Devitt; Councillor Dave Haywood; Councillor Melissa Hailey (after 12:30 p.m.) (comprising a quorum)
Members Absent With Notice: Merrill Leckie; Janice Patzwald; Maurice Blackhurst; Harold Roberts
Staff Present Mark Ruttan, Director of Administration; Mark Frame, Director of Finance; Chris Graham, Assistant Operations Manager; Harmen Bootsma, Wharf Manager;
Minutes The Commission reviewed the minutes of the meeting held Thursday, September 13, 2007 and the non-quorum meeting of Thursday, October 11, 2007
Business:
Bill Henwood, Parks Bill Henwood addressed the commission regarding the proposed National Marine Canada Area for the Southern Strait of Georgia. Mr. Henwood described the purpose of Presentation - the proposed marine area, which is to conserve and protect the marine National Marine Area environment. He also described the area that is being considered for protection. Mr. Henwood stated that within about six months Parks Canada will establish suggested goals and objectives for the proposed marine area that they would like public comment on. He explained that Parks Canada is consulting widely, to attempt to understand how the proposed National Marine Area would impact all concerned.
Mayor Lefebure interrupted the presentation in order for the Commission to address the topic of Harbour fees while a quorum was present.
Chemainus Wharf The Director of Finance reminded the Commission of advice in his previous Fees reports regarding proposed fee increases at the Chemainus wharf.
Jane Walton - Jane Walton appeared before the Commission on behalf of interested wharf Delegate tenants and users to urge the Commission not to increase moorage rates, suggesting that they should be comparable to other municipal and community wharves. She also argued that the Municipality’s decision to pay its wharf manager more money and to build a new marina with individual slips should not be reflected in higher moorage rates for Chemainus wharf users. Ms. Walton encouraged the Commission to develop a broader vision for the facility, and to include broader representation on the Commission. Following a brief question and answer period the Commission debated the appropriateness of increases to
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November 8, 2007 Harbours Commission Minutes
moorage rates. The Commission also reviewed correspondence from Sarah Mais, dated November 5, 2007 and David Mais, dated November 7, 2007, regarding the proposed fee increase.
Recommended Resolution : that Council direct staff to draft a bylaw to increase fees at the Chemainus wharf in accordance with the Director of Finance’s report. (File:5590-30CHE)
Councillor Haywood excused himself from the meeting at 1:05 p.m.
A quorum was not present for the balance of the meeting.
Bill Henwood, Parks Bill Henwood continued his presentation and answered questions from Canada - National Commission members regarding the potential impact of the creation of the Marine Area National Marine Area. Mr. Henwood offered to meet with the Commission, and staff, as this initiative continues to be explored.
Mayor Lefebure thanked him for his presentation and excused him from the meeting at 1:20 p.m.
Wharf Manager’s The Commission reviewed the wharf manager’s report for the month of October. Report - October According to the wharf manager’s report, revenues for the Chemainus, Crofton 2007 and Maple Bay wharves are up 20%, year to date over 2006. The wharf manager was pleased to report the installation of a dedicated sewer pump out station at the Chemainus wharf.
Crofton Wharf The Commission discussed various improvements needed to the Crofton wharf and directed staff to invite a representative from the Small Craft Harbours Branch of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to attend an upcoming meeting to discuss the improvements required and the department’s capital budgeting program. Suggested improvements for the Crofton wharf include a new gangway, video security system, and accessible oil spill kit.
Adjournment The meeting ended at 1:50 p.m.
Next Meeting The next meeting will be held at the call of the Chair.
Certified correct
Signature of recording secretary Chair or presiding member
Page 2 of 2
Page 58 of 71 Minutes - October 23
MUNICIPALITY of North Minutes COWICHAN
Meeting Pool Design Select Committee
Date October 23, 2007
Time 1:00 p.m.
Place Large Committee Room
Members Present District of North Cowichan : Mayor Jon Lefebure (Chair)
Members Absent City of Duncan : Mayor Phil Kent and Councillor Jessie Winfrey District of North Cowichan : Councillor George Seymour
Others Present 2008 NAIG : Dano Thorne (part), Cowichan Tribes District of North Cowichan : Mark Frame, Director of Finance; E. Mansueti, Parks and Recreation Director; Don Stewart, Deputy Parks and Recreation Director; and Mary Beth MacKenzie, Administrative Assistant City of Duncan : Peter de Verteuil, Director of Finance CVRD : Brad Coleman, Cowichan Centre Project/Construction Team : B. Inness and Vic Davies, Vic Davies Architects; W. Mansell, Unitech Construction Management Ltd.; and Jack Stam, Site Superintendent Gemella Design : Jessica Gemella and Reneé Lucier Paul Fletcher
While a quorum was not present the members present discussed the matters on the Agenda
Business:
Landscape Design Representatives of Gemella Design reviewed their revisions to the preliminary landscape drawings based on comments from the last meeting. They aimed to create a “Spirit Square” although funding for this project has not yet been received. Only one bid for landscaping was received, and it was double the anticipated amount.
To try and reduce costs, the plan was modified and includes:
S less stone; S tree grates to replace planters; and S retaining walls
The Parks and Recreation Director advised that Spirit Square funding will not likely be approved for this project, and noted that the modified landscaping plan should be achievable within the allotted budget. Delmar Johnny has incorporated First Nations design in the raised platforms and tree grates.
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October 23, 2007 Pool Design Select Committee Minutes
Members of the Committee, while eager to save the large tree at the entrance, were concerned with future problems with tree roots, and noting that relocation of the tree would be costly, there would be no guarantee that the tree would survive.
It was the consensus of the committee to remove the tree, and ensure trees, were included in the new design.
Budget Update W. Mansell reviewed the updated budget and the current status of the project. He noted that several bids have come in over budget, and that both Municipal and City staff will be reporting to their respective Councils on this matter in November.
Construction W. Mansell advised that the bid for structural steel has delayed the project by Schedule three weeks, and if inclement weather does not further delay the project, it should be completed by August 1, 2008. He indicated that he will be able to advise if the project will be completed by the August deadline by the end of November.
W. Mansell, Jessica Gemella, Reneé Lucier, Vic Davies and Jack Stam left the meeting at 2:10 p.m.
Exterior Colours The colours of sandstone and Tahoe blue were confirmed for the exterior of the new aquatics centre.
Two Tier The Parks and Recreation Director outlined his report dated October 18, 2007, Registration reminding the Committee that in 2006, the public was advised that sub-regional and/or regional funding for the new aquatics centre was desired. A two-tier registration system would see a higher fee for users outside of the taxpaying area. In addition, North Cowichan and Duncan residents would be granted preferred registration. The Parks and Recreation Director advised that staff will ask both North Cowichan and Duncan Councils to reaffirm their commitment to implement a two-tier system of registration for the new aquatics facility, and direct staff to draft a policy for future consideration by both Councils.
Name for New Members of the Committee discussed options to name the new aquatics facility. Aquatics Facility It was agreed that the Parks and Recreation Director and Dano Thorne of Cowichan Tribe would explore names, and bring them back for discussion at the next Pool Design Select Committee meeting. Once the proposed names have been short-listed by the Committee, they will be presented to the public who will vote on the choices.
Request for Space The Parks and Recreation Director advised that a public agency has expressed an interest for space in the new aquatics facility. Staff will try to accommodate the request in the new facility, or refer the request to the Cowichan Centre Commission.
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Pool Design Select Committee Minutes October 23, 2007
Certified correct
Signature of recording secretary Chair or presiding member
Page 3 of 3
Page 61 of 71 Page 62 of 71 Minutes - November 14
MUNICIPALITY of Minutes COWICHAN
Meeting Public Works Committee
Date November 14, 2007
Time 12:15 p.m.
Place Large Committee Room
Members Present Mayor Jon Lefebure; Councillor Anne Murray; Councillor Melissa Hailey (comprising a quorum)
Members Absent Councillor Glen Ridgway; Councillor Ruth Hartmann; Jim Dias, Chief Administrative Officer
Staff Present John MacKay, Director of Engineering and Operations; Wayne Gourlay, Operations Manager
Agenda The Committee adopted the agenda.
Minutes The Committee adopted the minutes of the meeting held October 10, 2007.
Business:
South End Sewer The Committee reviewed the request of Mark and Brett Chester to include 6026 Inclusion Cassino Road within the South End Sewer Area.
Recommended Resolution: that Council include 6026 Cassino Road (Folio 1180-000) within the South End Sewer Area subject to the owner:
1) signing a local area service agreement; 2) paying $2,092 for a sewer connection; and 3) paying $2,239 for the South End sewer equivalent development cost charges. (File 5355-30)
Crofton Sewer The Committee reviewed the request of Pauline Leier to include 8254 Crofton Inclusion Road within the Crofton Sewer Area.
Recommended Resolution: that Council include 8254 Crofton Road (Folio 12379-000) within the Crofton Sewer Area subject to the owner:
1) paying $1,417 for the Crofton Sewer equivalent development cost charges; 2) signing a Specified Area Inclusion agreement; 3) paying $2,092 for a sewer connection; 4) obtaining a plumbing permit to connect the existing house to the sewer system; and 5) confirming that the existing house can be serviced via gravity to the connection point. (File 5345-30)
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November 14, 2007 Public Works Committee Minutes
Westholme School - The Committee reviewed Norm Quist's November 14, 2007 letter confirming Sewage Disposal that he now owns Lot A, Plan 26574, Chemainus District, the property on which Field a septic field was installed to serve the Westholme School as per the Ministry of Health Sewage Disposal System Permit dated October 1, 2002. The permit requires that an easement and covenant be registered in favour of North Cowichan for this sewage disposal field. However, although Mr. Quist is prepared to allow the field to remain on his property, to be operated by the Westholme School Society, and to restrict cultivating equipment over the septic field pipes, as required by the permit, he is not prepared to register an easement and covenant.
The Committee requested that the Ministry of Health be requested to accept this arrangement given that the District owns the Westholme School site and can make alternate arrangements should Mr. Quist decide, at some time in the future, that he no longer wishes to have the septic field on his property. (File 5610-01)
Victoria Road Traffic The Committee reviewed the October 12, 2007 email from Mark Kiemele Calming requesting a number of traffic calming improvements to Victoria Road, between Chemainus Road and Douglas Street. The Committee supported the construction of a sidewalk on Victoria Road, from Chemainus Road to View Street, between 2008 and 2010, as recommended by the February 2006 Traffic Calming Study, but noted that work would not include many of the improvements requested by Mr. Kiemele, with the exception of perhaps pavement narrowing at the Ash Road and Garner Street crosswalks. The Committee requested that Mr. Kiemele be advised Of this decision. (File 5400-20 VICT / 5400-85 TC)
Calais Road Access The Committee reviewed the request of St. Clare's Monastery to install a lockable gate at the Wicks Road and Calais Road intersection to replace the existing concrete barriers and to permit access to the rear of their property. Although the Committee did not support installation of a gate at this location at the District's cost, the Committee noted that the District would be prepared to provide some gravel to facilitate aroundaccess the barriersexisting through 2353 Calais Road should the Monastery be able to obtain permission to access their property via the driveway to 2353 Calais Road. (File 5400-20 cal)
Indian Road Speed The Committee reviewed the letters and petition from residents ofIndian Road Bump Request and surrounding area requesting speed bumps be installed on Indian Road in 2008 when the road is upgraded to complete the sidewalk from Swan's Nest Drive to Quamichan Lake. The Committee supported undertaking a traffic volume and speed count on Indian Road to determine if it qualifies for traffic calming. (File 5400-20 IND)
Newspaper Box The Committee reviewed the request of Michael Riess to remove the newspaper Removal boxes at the corner of Somenos Road and Fraser Road. The Committee asked staff to contact the Citizen and News Leader newspapers to request that they remove their newspaper boxes at this location. (File 5400-20 SOM)
Drinkwater Road The Committee reviewed traffic volume and speed counts taken at three Speeding locations on Drinkwater Road, between November 17 to 19, 2007. Based upon the traffic and speed counts, the two sections of Drinkwater Road, between
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Public Works Committee Minutes November 14, 2007
Highway 18 and Lane Road, qualify for traffic calming based upon speed. The Committee supported undertaking a Traffic Calming study of Drinkwater Road, between Highway 18 and Lane Road. (File 5400-20 dri)
Tree Removal The Committee reviewed the request of Lorne and Cecilia Cochrane to remove Request several trees within the green belt adjacent to their home at 6042 Chippewa Road. The Committee also reviewed the arborist's report prepared by Beechwood Tree Service recommending the trees be reviewed again in three years time and that no abatement was needed at this time. The Committee agreed to allow branches, which overhang onto the Cochrane's property, to be trimmed subject to the work being undertaken by Beechwood Tree Service at the Cochrane's cost. The Committee also supported reviewing these trees in three years. (File 5280-01 tree)
Stonehouse The Committee reviewed the letter from Gary Stewart of 6065 Logan Place Subdivision Water concerning low water pressure. The Committee noted that when this Pressure subdivision was approved in 1990, there were 12-15 lots with building sites above the 83.8 metre elevation, which is the upper level of the South End Water System Zone 1. These lots were provided with a larger service and the subdivision prospectus was required to note that these lots would require individual private booster pumps to boost the water pressure above the lowest pressure of about 20 psi at the rear of 6050 Logan Place. The Committee requested that this information be forwarded to Mr. Stewart. (File 5630-01)
New Business:
Maple Bay Traffic The Committee again reviewed the concerns of the Maple Bay Ratepayers Concerns Association about speeding on Genoa Bay Road and Beaumont Avenue. The Committee reviewed speed and traffic counts as follows:
The Committee noted that to qualify for traffic calming, Genoa Bay Road would have to have a traffic volume >5,000 vehicles/day and an 85th percentile speed >60 km/hr. Beaumont Avenue would have to have a traffic volume of >1,000 vehicles/day and an 85th percentile speed of >55 km/hr. As both of these roads did not meet these thresholds, the Committee did not support lowering the speed limit on Beaumont Avenue. The Committee requested, however, that speeding be monitored on Genoa Bay Road and Beaumont Avenue by the RCMP. (File 5460-80 / 5400-20 GEN)
Agira Road Gate The Committee reviewed the request of the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) to be permitted to install a gate at the end of Agira Road to access the abandoned rail right-of-way. Presently, concrete barriers block off access at the end of Agira Road to prohibit access to the right-of-way. The CVRD is seeking approval for the gate so it can access the right-of-way to build a bridge across Bings Creek and for continued maintenance. The Committee supported
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installation of the gate by the CVRD subject to the CVRD obtaining all the other necessary approvals for constructionbridge from the Department of Fisheries, the Ministry of Environment and obtaining a North Cowichan building permit. (File 5400-20 AGI)
Closed Session The Committee closed the meeting to the public to consider items under Section 90(1 )(e) of the Community Charter at 1:45 p.m.
Adjournment The meeting ended at 2:00 p.m.
Next Meeting The next meeting will be held on December 12, 2007 at 12:15 p.m.
Certified correct
Signature of secretaryrecording Chair or presiding member
Page 4 of 4
Page 66 of 71 Bylaw No. 3305
BYLAW NO. 3305 Zoning Amendment Bylaw (No. 7 - Green Road), 2007
The council of The Corporation of the District of North Cowichan, in open meeting assembled, enacts as follows: 1 “Zoning Bylaw 1997”, is amended by re-classifying 6387 Green Road (Parcel B (DD44318I) of Section 2, Range 5, Somenos District, Except Part in Plan 15559 and Except Part in Plan 904BL - Folio 5090-000), shown outlined in bold on Schedule “A”, attached to and forming part of this bylaw, from Residential Rural zone (R1) to Residential Multi-Family Apartment zone (R8).
Bylaw readings First reading ...... July 18, 2007 Second reading ...... July 18, 2007 Public hearing ...... August 15, 2007 Third reading ...... September 19, 2007 Ministry of Transportation Approval ...... November 7, 2007 Adopted ...... , 2007
______M.O. Ruttan, Director of Administration J.W. Lefebure, Mayor
This bylaw is printed by authority of the council of The Corporation of the District of North Cowichan.
Page 67 of 71 Bylaw No. 3305
Schedule “A”
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Page 68 of 71 Mayor and Council Compensation
MUNICIPALITY of NOftl) Report cowichan
Date September 7,2007 File 1920-01 WAG
To J. S. Dias, Chief Administrative Officer
From John Van Home, Human Resources Manager Endorsed by
Subject Mayor and Council Compensation
Purpose To establish a rational, defensible process for establishing and thereviewing compensation package for our elected officials, and determine through the application of that process whether our current compensation package needs to be adjusted.
Background In 2007, there was a move towards reviewing the compensation package for the Municipality's elected officials. It was initially determined that this would most appropriately be performed by a community committee. Subsequent to this there was significant criticism as to the matter of salary adjustments the Provincial elected officials received as a result of a "committee" process. Thoughts then turned to a system which could provide for regular review and adjustments in Council indemnity, if warranted.
Recommendation
It is recommended that we implement a Compensation Philosophy for elected officials in which we strive to maintain a position near the average of our comparator group*. somewhatThe vague "near the average" target is in recognition of the fact that we will not always get a full response from our comparator municipalities, and we need to consider the size of the municipalities that provide information. Having a specific set target could lead to considerable fluctuation in the results depending on which municipalities respond in a given year. Our comparator group includes some smaller and some larger municipalities, and the data roughly shows that the compensation increases as the population of the municipality increases.
A review cycle of every three years will enable us to conduct the survey and achieve acceptable response rates, as we are not asking the same municipalities for the same information too frequently. Conducting the review in the year before an election, around the middle of the mandate, will best serve to minimize this matter's potential to become an election issue which results in greater fairness to all.
Discussion The following approach was undertaken: 1. Determine what policies or procedures are in place at other municipalities for establishing and reviewing the compensation package for elected officials; 2. Use this information to develop a Compensation Philosophy that outlines how, when and from whom we will gather and interpret compensation data on elected officials; 3. Gather and interpret the data as outlined in the Compensation Philosophy.
Few B.C. municipalities appear to have a well-documented Policy or Compensation Philosophy which establishes in sufficient detail how compensation packages for elected officials are reviewed or determined. Where such documentation exists, it is lacking detail on who conducts the compensation
7030 Trans Canada Highway, Box 278, Duncan, BC V9L3X4 Ph 250-746-3100 Fax 250-746-3133 www.northcowichan.bc.ca
Page 69 of 71 Mayor and Council Compensation
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review, which comparators areused, or what formula is followed. Where more detail is provided, the factors taken into account might be difficult to justify to taxpayers, as the factors can be perceived to be overly broad or of questionable relevance (e.g., Provincial or National Consumer Price Index).
It is impossible to account for all possible comparators for elected officials (the private sector, public sector, or senior levels of government) because the varied backgrounds of these elected officials translates todifferent career paths forgone, different earnings opportunities lost, etc. In many cases across many municipalities, the elected officials continue with their full time careers in their chosen professions while managing their public roles as well. As a result, consideration of "career paths foregone" and "opportunities lost" is really not a relevant consideration for municipalities of our size. Further, there are other non-financial benefits to holding elected office, including the increased notoriety and the ability to influence changes in one's community, that would have to balanced against these losses. For our purposes, we will assume that any perceived "loss" from becoming an elected official is at least balanced with the perceived "gains" of doing so.
Options Of the options currently in place in other local governments, the most common process appears to be surveying other municipalities of a similar size, geographic location, budget or with similar amenities and using that information to establish compensation levels. This is also the process used most often for establishing compensation levels for non-union staff, and it closely resembles the process undertaken by many municipalities in preparing for negotiations with unionized staff - surveying other municipalities, comparing collective agreements, etc.
Implications Administrative ease and managing public perception are two key items to consider in undertaking a compensation review for elected officials. For these reasons, a 3-year review cycle is the most ideal. 1. It prevents usfrom having to survey our comparator municipalities too frequently, which should help us achieve acceptable response rates and therefore an acceptable sample size from which to draw conclusions and make any necessary adjustments. 2. It allows the in-between times to continue to be addressed by the across-the-board settlements applied to our unionized employees. 3. It avoids the possible perception in the community that our elected officials arepre-occupied with their compensation package, as could be the case with a shorter review cycle 4. It will not allow our compensation levels for elected officials to drift too far outside the going "market rate" as could be the case with a longer review cycle.
This process is a rational, defensible and relatively cost-effective way of determining appropriate compensation levels for our elected officials.
Survey Results Applying the process recommended above, the results were as follows: • Mayor: the current salary of $45,718 is below both the median salary of $45,751 and the mean salary of $46,141. Of the municipalities with higher salaries, only Campbell River, Mission and Nanaimo have paid benefits packages for Mayor. Of these, Campbell River has a better benefits plan, Nanaimo has a roughly comparable plan, and Mission merely offers, but does not pay for, benefits coverage. • Deputy Mayor: the current salary of $20,580 is above the mean salary of $18,275 and median salary of $18,712. Two reasons for this difference are: • Some municipalities pay a premium (e.g., 10% of the Mayor's salary) only for the period
7030 Trans Canada Highway, Box 278, Duncan, BC V9L 3X4 Ph 250-746-3100 Fax 250-746-3133 www.northcowichan.bc.ca
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when the particular Councillor has to fulfill the ofduties Mayor; they don't pay year- round, and; • Some municipalities do not adjust Councillor's salaries for this additional responsibility. • Councillor: the current salary of $17,640 is above the mean salary of $16,922 and the median of $16,927. Of the municipalities with higher salaries, only Nanaimo has a comparable benefits plan. Campbell River, Mission and Chilliwack offer but do not pay for benefits coverage, and Cranbrook and Penticton do not even offer benefits to their elected officials.
Only a handful of municipalities make benefits available to elected officials, and fewer actually cover the cost of these benefits. When the cost of these benefits (up to almost $200 per month per person) is added to the salary, it puts North Cowichan in aneven more favourable position in terms of total compensation, compared to other municipalities.
Recommendations from the Survey:
Ratio: None of the municipalities indicated that they had any formula or ratio for distinguishing internally between the compensation for the Mayor and the Councillors. As amatter of course, most pay their Councillors between 33% and 40% of what they pay their Mayor, though some are higher. The survey process appears to not only establish appropriate compensation levels for the positions, but also maintain an acceptable gap between the compensation levels for those positions. No such formula is recommended for North Cowichan. However, as in the Salary Adjustment recommendation below, we should strive to be consistent in keeping our Mayor's position within the Mayor group roughly equivalent to the Councillors' position within the Councillor group.
Tax-Free Expense Allowance: All municipalities that responded to the survey indicated that they pay 1/3 of the salary as a tax-free expense allowance, as permitted by legislation. There is no reason to depart from this practice at North Cowichan.
Salary Adjustment: To be internally consistent, a raise for the position of Mayor is recommended. The Councillor position is approximately 4.2% above the mean average, and increasing the Mayor's salary to $48,300 would move this position from 0.9% below to 4.2% above the mean average, the same as for Councillors.
^Comparator Group:
Campbell River Chilliwack Maple Ridge Courtenay Cranbrook Duncan Ladysmith Langford Mission Nanaimo Penticton PortAlbemi Port Moody Powell River
Note: Port Moody did not provide any survey information to either North Cowichan or Civicinfo on Mayor & Council remuneration.
7030 Trans Canada Highway, Box 278, Duncan, BC V9L 3X4 Ph 250-746-3100 Fax 250-746-3133 www.norlhcowichan.bc.ca
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