To send correspondence to Mayor and members of Council in relation to this Council agenda, please use the following email address: [email protected]
Mission Statement In carrying out its mandate, Bowen Island Municipality will work towards conducting operations in a way that: • Improves the economic, environmental and social well-being for present and future generations; • Encourages and fosters community involvement; • Enhances the small, friendly, caring character of the community; • Maintains an open, accountable and effective operation; and • Preserves and enhances the unique mix of natural ecosystems and green spaces that Bowen Island possesses.
NOTICE: That a regular meeting of Bowen Island Municipal Council will be held via Zoom on Monday, May 11, 2020 at 6:15 PM for the transaction of business listed below.
REVISED AGENDA Regular Council Meeting Monday, May 11, 2020
(REVISED TO INCLUDE LATE & ON-TABLE ITEMS)
Page Timing OPENING OF COUNCIL MEETING 6:15 PM 1 APPROVAL OF AGENDA
1.1 Introduction of Late Items
Recommendation: That Council approve the agenda and Late Items agenda (if applicable) for the May 11, 2020 Regular Council meeting.
2 PUBLIC COMMENTS (15 min) Verbal Submissions: If you wish to speak to Council, we ask that you limit your comments to an item contained in the agenda.
Written Submissions:If you wish to submit written material to Council, please ensure it is provided to the Corporate Officer four (4) days in advance of the Council meeting. Written submissions received after this date will be included in the subsequent Council agenda package. This timeline allows your submission to be circulated to Council and be included in the formal record of the meeting.
How to sign up for Public Comments: Email the Corporate Officer BEOFRE 6:00 PM at [email protected]. In your email, please include the following: 1. Subject line “Public Comment”
Bowen Island Municipality May 11, 2020 Regular Council Meeting Page 1 of 310 2. Name (first and last), telephone number and topic or agenda item. 3. Join the meeting via the Zoom link provided in the Council agenda and wait for your name to be called during the public comment section.
We ask that you respect the time limit allotted by the Mayor and once finished to please leave the meeting at watch via the BIM YouTube Channel.
2.1 Tracey Saxby, Executive Director, My Sea to Sky re: Proposed 5‐year 9 - 63 extension to Woodfibre LNG’s environmental assessment certificate (#E15‐02), dated May 8, 2020
3 CONSENT AGENDA 6:30 PM (5 min) Note: Council members may adopt in one motion all recommendations appearing on the Consent Agenda, or prior to the vote, request an item be removed from the Consent Agenda for debate or discussion, voting in opposition to a recommendation, or declaring a conflict with an item.
Recommendation: That Council approve the items as outlined in the May 11, 2020 Consent Agenda.
START OF CONSENT AGENDA
ADOPTION OF MINUTES
3.1 Minutes of the Regular Council meeting held April 27, 2020. 64 - 72
Recommendation: That the minutes of the Regular Council meeting held April 27, 2020 be adopted.
3.2 Minutes of the Special Council meeting held April 27, 2020 73
Recommendation: That the minutes of the Special Council meeting held April 27, 2020 be adopted.
BYLAWS
3.3 Planning and Development Procedure Bylaw No.494, 2019 - Daniel 74 - 89 Martin, Manager of Planning and Development
Recommendation: That Bylaw No. 494, 2019 cited as "Bowen Island Municipality Planning and Development Procedure Bylaw No.494, 2020" be finally adopted.
Bowen Island Municipality May 11, 2020 Regular Council Meeting Page 2 of 310
3.4 Bowen Island Municipality 2020 Water System User Rate Bylaws - Raj 90 - 109 Hayre, Chief Financial Officer, dated April 20, 2020
Recommendation: THAT Bowen Island Municipality Blue Water Park Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 510, 2020, and Bowen Island Municipality Cove Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 511, 2020, and Bowen Island Municipality Hood Point Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 512, 2020, and Bowen Island Municipality Tunstall Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 513, 2020, and Bowen Island Municipality Bowen Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 514, 2020, and Bowen Island Municipality Eagle Cliff Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 515, 2020, and Bowen Island Municipality King Edward Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 516, 2020, be read a first, second and third time and be finally adopted.
STAFF REPORTS
3.5 Development Variance Permit Application - New Road “N” in the Grafton 110 - 124 Lake Phase 1 Subdivision (John Reid for Island Garden Estates and Mount Gardner Holdings Ltd) - Judy McLeod, Planning Consultant, dated May 4, 2020
Recommendation: That Council issue Development Variance Permit DVP-02-2020 for the variances to Table C-15 and Schedule C5 section 9.1 of Bowen Island Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw No. 447, 2017 for regulations relating to the construction of new Road “N” on properties legally described as: North ½ Block 5 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230, PID 010-715-452; South ½ of Block 5 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230 PID 013-966- 391; and Lot A Block 1 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230 PID 008-637-245.
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES, COW, COMMISSIONS
3.6 Resignation from the Community Grants Advisory Committee
Recommendation: That Council accept the resignation of Bobbi Parker from the Community Grants Advisory Committee; and That a letter be sent under the Mayor's signature thanking her for her contributions.
Bowen Island Municipality May 11, 2020 Regular Council Meeting Page 3 of 310
INFORMATION ITEMS
Recommendation: That Council receive the information as outlined in section 12 of the May 11, 2020 Regular Council meeting agenda.
END OF CONSENT AGENDA
4 DELEGATIONS None. 5 BUSINESS ARISING FROM MINUTES None. 6 BYLAWS
6.1 Alternative Tax Collection Bylaw No.520, 2020 - Raj Hayre, Chief Financial 125 - 128 6:35 PM Officer, dated May 5, 2020 (5 min)
Recommendation: That Bylaw No.520, 2020 cited as “Bowen Island Municipality Alternative Tax Collection Bylaw No.520, 2020” be read a first, second and third time and be finally adopted.
7 STAFF REPORTS
7.1 Emergency Program Update (May 2019 - April 2020) - Jennifer 129 - 132 6:40 PM McGowan, Emergency Program Coordinator, dated May 1, 2020 (10 min)
Recommendation: That Council receive for information the Emergency Program Update (May 2019 – April 2020) Report as included in the May 11, 2020 Regular Council agenda.
7.2 Temporary Use Permit Amendment to the Official Community Plan - 133 - 140 6:50 PM Daniel Martin, Manager of Planning and Development, dated April 29, (10 min) 2020
Recommendation: That Council refer the staff report dated May 1, 2020 on a potential amendment to the Official Community Plan to designate areas where temporary use permits are allowed to the Islands Trust and the Advisory Planning Commission.
7.3 RZ-04-2019 & OCP-03-2019 (1050 Miller Road) - Daniel Martin, Manager 141 - 144 7:00 PM of Planning and Development, dated May 1, 2020 (5 min)
Recommendation: THAT Council reject applications RZ-04-2019 and OCP-03-2019; and Council direct staff to halt work on a comprehensive review of the properties designated Village Residential on Miller Road.
Bowen Island Municipality May 11, 2020 Regular Council Meeting Page 4 of 310 7.4 Woodfibre LNG - Environmental Assessment Certificate Extension 145 - 155 7:05 PM Review - Bonny Brokenshire, Manager of Environment and Parks (5 min) Planning, dated May 6, 2020
Recommendation: That Council direct the Interim Manager of Environment, Park Planning and Bylaw Services to ask the Provincial Environmental Assessment Office for an extension until May 31, 2020 to allow for a review of the Woodfibre LNG application to extend its Environmental Assessment Certificate; and That Council direct the Interim Manager of Environment, Parks Planning and Bylaw Services to incorporate the feedback received from Mayor and Council at the May 11, 2020 meeting about the Woodfibre LNG extension application.
a. Anton van Walraven, Concerned Bowen Citizens re: Proposed 5-Year 156 - 157 Extension to Woodfibre LNG's environmental assessment certificate, dated May 5, 2020
8 CORRESPONDENCE None. 9 REPORTS OF COMMITTEES, COW, COMMISSIONS Dealt with under the Consent Agenda. 10 NEW BUSINESS
10.1 Expenditure Authorization to Fund Alternative Transportation Service - 158 - 159 7:10 PM Dennis Back, Interim Chief Administrative Officer, dated May 7, 2020 (5 min)
Recommendation: THAT Council authorize an expenditure not to exceed $4,000 to fund the net cost of operating an alternative bus service on Bowen Island during the week of May 4, 2020 while the Translink service was suspended to be funded within the 2020 operating budget for public works.
10.2 Metro Vancouver Director, David Hocking re: Update to Council on 7:15 PM Metro Vancouver business (verbal report) (5 min)
10.3 Islands Trust Municipal Trustees Fast and Kaile re: Update to Council on 7:20 PM Islands Trust business (verbal report) (5 min)
10.4 Councillor Nicholson re: Update to Council on Metro Vancouver Regional 7:25 PM Parks Committee meetings (verbal report) (5 min)
10.5 Update on Bowen Island Community Foundation Resiliency Fund - Councillor Nicholson (verbal update)
a. Letter from Holly Graff, Chair, Bowen Island Community Foundation re: 160 - 163 Bowen Island Resiliency Fund, dated May 8, 2020
10.6 Councillor Alison Morse re: Update to Council on TransLink's Mayor's 7:30 PM Council meetings (verbal update) (5 min)
Bowen Island Municipality May 11, 2020 Regular Council Meeting Page 5 of 310 11 ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA 7:35 PM (10 min)
12 INFORMATION ITEMS Note to members of the Public: if your correspondence is referenced in this section below and you wish to speak to Council regarding such, you are welcome to appear during our "Public Comment" section near the beginning of this agenda
12.1 BIM Correspondence
a. BIM re: News Release re BIM and Bowen Island Community Foundation 164 - 165 Team Up, dated April 23, 2020
b. BIM re: Emergency Operations Centre Updated, dated April 24, 2020 166 - 168
c. BIM re: Letter to Translink re Suspended Bus Service, dated April 28, 169 2020
d. BIM re: EOC Update #8, dated May 1, 2020 170 - 172
e. BIM re: Letter to BC Ferries re Washrooms, dated May 4, 2020 173 - 175
f. BIM re: Letter to MLA and MP re Translink, dated May 5, 2020 176 - 177
g. BIM re: Letter to Ministers and BC Ferries re Order and non-essential 178 - 181 travel, dated May 5, 2020
12.2 BIM Reports
a. Fire Rescue re: April Statistics, dated May 3, 2020 182
12.3 Brian Anderson, VP Strategy & Community Engagement, BC Ferries re: 183 Reply to Mayor Ander regarding Medical Assured Loading, dated April 23, 2020
12.4 Kevin Desmond, CEO, Translink re Reply to BIM re Bus Suspension, dated 184 - 185 April 29, 2020
12.5 Metro Vancouver
a. Metro Vancouver re: COVID-19 Weekly Update, dated April 24, 2020 186 - 189
b. Metro Vancouver re: Chair Update, dated April 30, 2020 190 - 204
c. Metro Vancouver re: Chair Update, dated May 1, 2020 205 - 208
12.6 UBCM
a. UBCM re: UBCM endorses call for Federal funding support, dated April 209 - 210 23, 2020
b. UBCM re: COVID-19 Updates re Rural Internet Service, Housing 211 - 212 Vulnerable Populations, ICBC, dated April 27, 2020
c. UBCM re: Planning for the 2020 UBCM Convention, dated April 30, 2020 213 - 214
Bowen Island Municipality May 11, 2020 Regular Council Meeting Page 6 of 310 d. UBCM re: Electronic Public Hearings Allowed during Pandemic, dated 215 - 216 May 4, 2020
12.7 Islands Trust a. Islands Trust re: News Release - Trust Council Reduces 2020-2021 217 - 218 Budget, dated April 22, 2020 b. Islands Trust re: Chair for TSB Inquiry into Plumper Sounds Freighter 219 Collision, dated April 24, 2020 c. Islands Trust re: Local Trust Committees Having Electronic Meeting and 220 - 221 Public Hearings, dated May 5, 2020
12.8 BC Wildfire Service re: Update, dated April 29, 2020 222 - 223
12.9 BC Wildfire Service re: CoFC Status Report, dated April 23, 2020 224 - 225
12.10 BC Assessment re: Taxing Authority Information Sharing, dated April 30, 226 - 227 2020
12.11 BC SPCA re: Science & Policy Newsletter - Spring 2020, dated May 1, 228 - 231 2020
12.12 Federation of Canadian Municipalities re: Seeking Emergency Funding for 232 - 233 Municipalities, dated April 23, 2020
12.13 Mayor Stewart, City of Coquitlam re: COVID-19 Metro Vancouver 234 - 237 response, dated April 24, 2020
12.14 Mayor Buchanan, City of North Vancouver re:Letter re Property Tax 238 - 239 Deferment Program, dated May 1, 2020
12.15 Mayor Baker, Lake Country re: Letter to Min Morneau - Interest on 240 Deferred Payments, dated April 30, 2020
12.16 Patrick Weiler, MP re: COVID-19 Update, dated May 1, 2020 241 - 253
12.17 Steve Orcherton, ED, Child Find BC re: Proclamation Municipal 254 - 255 Government, dated April 23, 2020
12.18 Fiona Beaty, Project Director, Ocean Watch re: Howe Sound Marine 256 - 262 Reference Guide, dated April 30, 2020
12.19 Dennis Schafer, Stick and Stone Cannabis re: Letter of Support, dated 263 - 267 April 30, 2020
12.20 Nathan Davidowicz re: Vice article - Rural Transit Agencies are Keeping 268 People Alive, dated April 30, 2020
12.21 Robin Burger re: New Commons Development - BIRCH Proposal, Metro 269 - 271 Vancouver EOI, Development of Community Land for Affordable Housing, dated April 30, 2020
12.22 Rondy Dike re: Marina Staff Housing Award, dated April 9, 2020 272 - 274
Bowen Island Municipality May 11, 2020 Regular Council Meeting Page 7 of 310 12.23 Heather Miller, Artisan Office re: Ferries, FACs and Essential Services, 275 - 279 dated April 13, 2020
12.24 Daniel Franklin re: Affordable Housing Project, dated April 29, 2020 280 - 282
12.25 Speed Limit Bylaw
a. Terence McKeown & Lisa Avery re: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw 283 - 284 Amendment, dated May 2, 2020
b. Haig Farris re: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment, dated May 2, 285 - 291 2020
c. Bruce Russell re: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment, dated May 2, 292 - 300 2020
d. Sam Gudewill re: Fairweather Rd Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw, dated 301 May 3, 2020
e. Ruth Wulf re: Reducing Speed Limits, dated May 4, 2020 302 - 303
f. Leslie Lucas re: Speed Limits, dated May 5, 2020 304
12.26 Motorized use on Mt. Gardner
a. Charles Harder re: Motorized use on Mt. Gardner, dated May 4, 2020 305
b. Nick de Zeeuw re: Motorized Use on Mt. Gardner, dated May 4, 2020 306
12.27 Mayor Harvie, City of Delta re: Dr. Victoria Lee_ Guidance for Business 307 - 310 and Service Resumption, dated May 5, 2020
13 QUESTION PERIOD 7:45 PM (5 min) 14 ADJOURNMENT 7:50 PM
Bowen Island Municipality May 11, 2020 Regular Council Meeting Page 8 of 310
Monday, 8th May, 2020 Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, BC V0N1G2
RE: Proposed 5‐year extension to Woodfibre LNG’s environmental assessment certificate (#E15‐02)
Dear Mayor and Council,
My Sea to Sky is a people‐powered environmental organization that was founded in 2014 to defend, protect, and restore Átl’ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound. We currently represent more than 20,346 people that have signed the Howe Sound Declaration in opposition to the proposed Woodfibre LNG project—1,305 of whom live on Bowen Island.
Woodfibre LNG has recently applied for a 5‐year extension to its environmental assessment certificate (EAC), which expires on 26th October, 2020.1 As a member of the Technical Working Group, BIM has the opportunity to provide feedback on Woodfibre LNG’s extension application by 19th May 2020.
The purpose of the review process is to assess the proponent’s rationale for requesting an extension to their EAC, and to identify new information that has come to light since the EAC was granted that could change the conclusions reached in the original environmental assessment. This could include: new scientific or technical information; government policy changes; legal/regulatory expectations; physical changes to the airshed, watershed, or equivalent; previously unknown or undetected effects; and new information regarding Indigenous interests.
Members of the Technical Working Group may wish to recommend that an extension should not be granted, or to recommend additional conditions that should be added if an extension is granted.
It is not currently clear which policy framework will be applied to Woodfibre LNG’s extension application by the BC EAO. Woodfibre LNG’s application refers to the BC EAO 2016 guidance documents,2 however BC EAO staff have verbally suggested that the new BC EAO 2020 Certificate Extension Policy3 will apply. For the purposes of this letter we will refer to both policies, and we have attached them for your convenience. These documents are helpful to better understand the process.
Our understanding is that the BC Environmental Assessment Office (BC EAO) does not intend to allow participation in the review process either by members of the public or by groups such as My Sea to Sky that had participated in the original environmental assessment process in 2014/2015, and subsequent amendments.
As such, we would like to share our review of Woodfibre LNG’s extension application with Bowen Island Municipality with the intent to inform your review process, and we request Mayor and Council to consider incorporating our concerns into your response to the BC EAO.
To highlight our key concerns:
1) Woodfibre LNG submitted its application for an extension two months late, which reduces the amount of time available for the BC EAO and the Technical Working Group to thoroughly review the application.
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 9 of 310Page | 1
2) There is no update on timelines for a Final Investment Decision, and no mention of actual construction plans in Woodfibre LNG’s extension application. Woodfibre LNG’s past FID in November 2016 does not appear to have been genuine which calls into question the credibility of the proponent (see Section 3.6).
3) The price of LNG in Asia collapsed long before COVID‐19 due to a glut in supply and unusually warm winters that have reduced demand. Before Woodfibre LNG is granted an extension to their EAC, they should be able to demonstrate a solid business case for their project, confirm project financing, and make a Final Investment Decision (see Section 1.5).
4) To use the current COVID‐19 pandemic as a reason for delay is unconscionable and opportunistic. We provide evidence why COVID‐19 should not be considered a valid excuse for delay in Section 1.4. We posit that the delays encountered to date are instead due to poor judgement and poor management over the last four and a half years.
5) Since the EAC was granted in October 2015, new scientific research has emerged that we believe would change the conclusions reached in the original environmental assessment (see Section 6 for additional references and more information), for example:
a. 2018 Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report warning that we must immediately reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 in order to limit warming to 1.5 °Celsius to avoid worsening the long‐lasting and irreversible impacts of climate change. b. Committed emissions from existing energy infrastructure jeopardize the 1.5°C climate target. This means that we cannot build new fossil fuel infrastructure if we want to achieve climate targets. c. Declaration of a “climate emergency” by 11,258 scientists, with recommendations to: replace fossil fuels with low‐carbon renewables; leave remaining stocks of fossil fuels in the ground; support poorer nations in transitioning away from fossil fuels; eliminate fossil fuel subsidies; and increase carbon pricing. d. Life‐cycle emissions from natural gas are comparable to coal, and methane emissions from fossil fuel extraction is 25–40% higher than previously estimated. e. LNG exports will likely increase global greenhouse gas emissions. f. LNG is in direct competition with renewables, and may delay the transition to renewable energy. g. Renewable energy is now the cheapest energy option. h. New baseline data for Howe Sound is now available through the OceanWatch report, and several species and habitats are listed as “Critical.” i. Woodfibre LNG is listed as a Priority Conservation Area through the Atl’ḵa7tsem/Howe Sound marine conservation map. 6) Policy changes that have occurred since October 2015 that would affect the BC EAO’s decision include: a. Declaration of a climate emergency by 475 communities across Canada, including Bowen Island. b. Declaration of a climate emergency by the Federal government in 2019.
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 10 of 310Page | 2
c. Clean BC and the newly legislated targets of 40% below 2007 levels by 2030; 60% by 2040; and 80% by 2050. d. 2019 Climate Change Accountability Act e. 2019 Changes to the Fisheries Act.
7) Woodfibre LNG has failed to meaningfully engage with Howe Sound communities and incorporate their feedback into project design and development. Citizens feel that their concerns have been ignored, disregarded, and dismissed. This is reflected in the need for two amendments, both of which could have been avoided if the proponent had listened to initial community feedback provided in 2014 and pro‐ actively adjusted their project design, or planned to build legacy housing for construction workers prior to applying for an EAC (see Section 1.2).
We do not believe that Woodfibre LNG should receive an extension to their environmental assessment certificate due to these changes in economic context; changes to local, provincial, and federal policies; new and emerging scientific understanding; and the implications of developing new fossil fuel infrastructure in a climate emergency.
We request that Bowen Island Municipality recommend to the BC EAO and Minister Heyman that Woodfibre LNG should not receive an extension to its environmental assessment certificate.
Please see our detailed review of Woodfibre LNG’s extension application below. We hope that this information is useful and helps to inform council and staff’s review process.
Sincerely,
Tracey Saxby BA/BSc (Hons I) Eoin Finn B.Sc., Ph.D., MBA Executive Director Director of Research My Sea to Sky My Sea to Sky Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Phone: +1 (604) 892‐7501 Phone: +1 (604) 715‐7991
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 11 of 310Page | 3
Review of Woodfibre LNG’s application for a 5‐year extension to its Environmental Assessment Certificate (EAC)
As per the BC EAO’s 2016/2020 guidance documents,2,3 the proponent is required to provide supporting rationale to answer the questions below. We have interspersed our comments to Woodfibre LNG’s responses below:
1.0 Why does the Holder wish to extend the Environmental Assessment Certificate (EAC) and why is project development delayed?
1.1 Challenges associated with site clean‐up and remediation As Woodfibre LNG notes, site clean‐up and remediation was a condition of purchasing the Woodfibre site from Western Forest Products in February 2015.4,5,6,7 If Woodfibre LNG conducted its proper due diligence prior to purchase of the property, the condition of the site should not have been unexpected, and therefore should not be considered an excuse for delay.
1.2 Environmental Assessment Certificate (EAC) amendments diverted internal resources away from advancing pre‐construction requirements Two of the amendments listed below demonstrate a significant failure on behalf of the proponent to adjust their project proposal in response to initial community and stakeholder feedback in 2014. We argue that any delays experienced by the proponent due to these amendments to their EAC were caused by their unwillingness to listen to and meaningfully engage with the community.
1.2.1 EAC amendment to switch from seawater cooling to air‐cooling required by Squamish Nation In their original project description, Woodfibre LNG proposed to use an outdated seawater cooling system to cool the onshore liquefaction plant.8 Local community members, local governments, citizen scientists, and environmental organizations first raised concerns about the impacts of once‐through seawater cooling on herring as early as March 2014.9,10,11,12 Forage fish such as herring are a vital link in the food web, as an abundant source of food for salmon, birds, seals, and humpback whales, as well as many other species.13 Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) guidelines recommend industrial marine water intake pipes be located at least 2 km from documented herring spawn areas as herring eggs and larvae are particularly vulnerable, and warns that marine intakes can have “severe impacts on marine resources.”14 Local citizen scientist, John Buchanan, has been monitoring herring spawn around Howe Sound since 2010, and his data, along with photographic and video evidence, showed that herring are spawning directly at the proposed Woodfibre LNG site and at other nearby locations well within the 2 km DFO guideline.11,12 Woodfibre LNG selectively chose to ignore this data, and instead relied on data provided by DFO that was out of date (Figure 1 & 2).15 DFO later admitted that they had not surveyed herring in Howe Sound in recent years, and relied on local residents or streamkeeper groups to document herring spawn locations.16
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 12 of 310Page | 4
Figure 1: DFO herring spawn data used by Woodfibre LNG for initial herring spawn assessment in 2015.15
Figure 2: Herring spawn data collected by local citizen scientist, John Buchanan, from 2010 to 2016. Red lines indicate herring spawn occurrence. Map created by Anton van Walraven from our partner organization, Concerned Citizens Bowen.
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 13 of 310Page | 5
Additional studies required by the BC EAO demonstrated that yes, herring were spawning at the site, and the consultant, Hemmera, recommended that herring surveys be continued in 2016.17 To our knowledge, Woodfibre LNG did not continue these herring surveys. Despite these concerns, the Environmental Assessment Certificate for the Woodfibre LNG project was approved by both the Provincial18 and Federal19 EA processes. When the same existing citizen scientist data was provided to Squamish Nation, the nation required Woodfibre LNG to provide further information on alternative cooling techniques through their separate environmental assessment process, and to allow Squamish Nation to make the final decision on what cooling system Woodfibre LNG must use.20 This amendment could have been avoided if Woodfibre LNG had listened to local expert knowledge and community concerns about the impacts to herring, and pro‐actively adjusted their project design prior to starting the environmental assessment process.
1.2.2 EAC amendment to clarify that site clean‐up and remediation did not constitute construction Woodfibre LNG asserts that “To date, all works completed to advance the Project are related to clean up and remediation of the historic pulp mill site and related infrastructure and/or are administrative in nature.”1 Given the approaching deadline for their EAC, we find it curious that Woodfibre LNG felt it necessary to apply for this amendment. This may be due to the continued delay in any Final Investment Decision, and the lack of project financing as the price of LNG has collapsed (see Section 1.5). If so, Woodfibre LNG entered into this amendment of their own volition, and this should not constitute rationale for a delay. While cleanup and remediation is necessary and commendable in any event, we note that such work is not necessarily specific to the continuation of the Project. That is, if the continuing delay in the Final Investment Decision reflects a lack of commitment to the Project, then the remediation work will simply have increased the proponent’s ability to sell the lands into the real estate market or propose that they be directed to some alternative use. We again note that the proponent was required to undertake this activity as a condition of purchasing the land.1,6,7
1.2.3 EAC amendment for a floating hotel or “floatel” for worker accommodation Woodfibre LNG has known since early 2014 that housing and accommodation were a major concern for Howe Sound communities, but these concerns have been ignored, disregarded, and dismissed. As a good corporate citizen, Woodfibre LNG could have invested in building legacy housing for Squamish that could help to relieve the current housing crisis, and instead they opted for a cheap, temporary solution. This amendment could have been avoided by the proponent if they had listened to initial community feedback in 2014 and planned accordingly. See Appendix 1 for more information.
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 14 of 310Page | 6
1.3 Financial difficulties of preferred contractors Woodfibre LNG states that the bankruptcy of their preferred contractor in January 2020, has caused complications in commercial negotiations regarding an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract. This should not be considered an adequate excuse for delay, as alternative contractors are available, and the timing of bankruptcy in January 2020 is too recent to be an adequate excuse for delays up until this point.
1.4 Impacts of COVID‐19 on manufacturing facilities and fabrication yards in China Based on the information provided by Woodfibre LNG that their preferred contractor for an EPC contract filed for bankruptcy in January 2020, we suspect that their preferred contractor is the Houston‐based company, McDermott International.21 If this is the case, it is likely that the manufacturing facilities and fabrication yards in China that Woodfibre LNG refers to is Qingdao McDermott Wuchuan (QMW), “a joint venture between McDermott and CSIC Wuchuan to cater to the FPSO/FLNG and Offshore/Onshore Module construction market, managed by McDermott.”22 Given that Woodfibre LNG notes that the EPC contract was never finalized due to the “financial challenges” of their preferred contractor, it cannot be argued that COVID‐19 has delayed the timelines for manufacture of specialized equipment and fabrication of modules. In the absence of a final EPC contract this is irrelevant. However, it should be noted that if/when Woodfibre LNG finalizes their EPC contract with McDermott, that the fabrication yards in Qingdao are located approximately 950 km northeast of Wuhan, the epicenter of the COVID‐ 19 outbreak in China. It should also be noted that Qingdao, where the fabrication yards are located, was not shut down during the COVID‐19 outbreak.23 Therefore, Woodfibre LNG cannot use the impacts of COVID‐19 on manufacturing facilities and fabrication yards in China as an excuse for delays.
1.5 Economic impacts of COVID‐19 may affect project financing or commercial negotiations We agree that COVID‐19 may have long‐lasting and uncertain economic impacts worldwide. However, Woodfibre LNG fails to acknowledge that the global LNG price collapsed long before COVID‐19, due to a glut in supply and unusually warm winters that have reduced demand.24 The price of LNG in Asia has dropped from $19.03 US per MMBtu in February 2014, to $3.07 US per MMBtu in February 2020, and is now at $2.17 US per MMBtu, in April 2020.25 See Figure 3. Energy Finance Analyst, Clark Williams Derry, writes in a report for the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis that: “The financial prospects for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) ‒ once one of the globe’s hottest energy commodities – seem to be imploding before our eyes.” “In most cases, the companies pinned the delays on the novel coronavirus, while ignoring the fact that LNG prices were already deflating long before the worst impacts of the pandemic were being felt. And what’s notable is the sheer number and scope of the LNG announcements. Companies of all scales—from giant state‐owned enterprises, to publicly traded oil and gas supermajors, to smaller and more speculative start‐ups—are pulling back from their LNG commitments and reevaluating their options.”
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 15 of 310Page | 7
“The LNG industry entered today’s crisis on shaky footing. And now that the economic slowdown is in full swing, all previous LNG supply and demand projections have been rendered moot, and all crystal balls remain cloudy. In that context, delay is a smart decision.”26 Before Woodfibre LNG is granted an extension to their EAC, they should be able to demonstrate a solid business case for their project, confirm project financing, and make a Final Investment Decision (See Section 3.6). Otherwise, the benefits projected for exporting a publicly‐owned, non‐renewable resource will not be realized.
Figure 3: Regional LNG prices (monthly average) for Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the global average LNG price. Data source: Bluegold Research, 2020.25
2.0 What was the length of time of the original EAC and why?
Note that this question has not been answered by the proponent, as it only appears in the 2020 Certificate Extension Policy.3
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 16 of 310Page | 8
3.0 What work has the Holder done to advance the project?
3.1 Clean up and remediation of the historic pulp mill site and related infrastructure See comment 1.1 above. Given that site clean‐up and remediation was a condition of land purchase,6,7 it should not be used to demonstrate progress for Woodfibre LNG or cited as a reason why the timeframe for the original EAC was inadequate.
3.2 Participation in EAC amendments As noted in section 1.2, the EAC amendments—to switch from sea‐water cooling to air cooling, and to provide adequate worker accommodation—demonstrate a failure on behalf of the proponent to adjust their project proposal in response to initial community feedback in 2014. Both of these amendments could have been avoided if the proponent had engaged with the community in a meaningful way, and proponent participation in these amendments should not be considered as advancement of the project.
3.3 Advanced engineering design
3.3.1 Invested greater than $40 million to date on FEED and detailed engineering; No comment.
3.3.2 Procured candidate vessels for use as Floating Storage Tanks in 2014; According to the Canadian Standards Association, the typical lifespan of an LNG tanker is 15–20 years, to a maximum of 40 years.27 Woodfibre LNG has purchased the LNG Capricorn (built in 1978, which makes it 42 years old)28 and the LNG Taurus (build in 1979, which makes it 41 years old).29 Both of these LNG tankers are out of service and already past their viable lifespan, and additional delays to the start of construction and operation make the purchase of these LNG tankers even more questionable as they continue to age.
3.3.3 Ordered the main cryogenic heat exchanger in August 2019, critical to the liquefaction of natural gas and part of a procurement process to de‐risk the Project schedule by purchasing long lead items; It is highly unusual that any LNG proponent would purchase very expensive equipment prior to making a Final Investment Decision. Given that the preferred EPC vendor makes no mention of such a contract we doubt the veracity of this statement.
3.4 Advanced permitting and pre‐construction commitments in the EAC
3.4.1 Initiated TERMPOL review process through submission to Transport Canada in 2015; While yes, Woodfibre LNG did initiate the TERMPOL process in 2015, our understanding from Transport Canada is that the TERMPOL process stalled in June 2017, when “Transport Canada was specifically mandated through Order‐in‐Council #2017‐0813 (www.pco‐bcp.gc.ca/oic‐ddc.asp) to recover costs associated with TERMPOL Reviews.”30
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 17 of 310Page | 9
We were further advised by Transport Canada in February 2019 that the “Status remains the same, we are waiting for Woodfibre to make a decision on when to enter into an agreement with Transport Canada to complete the TERMPOL review process. Until then the review is on hold.”31 In August 2019 we were advised by Transport Canada that “The TERMPOL review for Woodfibre is still on hold. The process is voluntary and is not a requirement to proceed with construction.”32 In December 2019, Ruth Simons from Future of Howe Sound was advised that “Woodfibre is now stating that they will update the relevant chapters of their original TERMPOL submission and submit the update to Transport Canada by Nov 2020.”33 Given that the TERMPOL process is voluntary, and given that no progress has been made since 2017, this does not demonstrate progress for Woodfibre LNG.
3.4.2 Obtained National Energy Board export licence to export LNG for 40 years in June 2017; Woodfibre LNG’s licence to export LNG for 40 years raises significant concerns that the proponent has failed to adequately take into account the current scientific consensus on climate change, and the need to immediately reduce emissions by 45% by 2030, and achieve “net zero” by 2050.34 See Section 6.1 for more information. Woodfibre LNG needs to demonstrate how the development of new fossil fuel infrastructure that is intended to export LNG starting in 2025 to 2065 is consistent with the need to reduce emissions to “net zero” by 2050. Is there a business case for exporting LNG beyond 2050, and does this affect the economic outlook for the project?
3.4.3 Obtained British Columbia Oil and Gas Commission Facilities Permit in July 2019; No comment.
3.4.4 Development of draft EMPs required by the EAC and initiation of associated consultation with regulatory agencies and Indigenous groups; The continued delay in development of draft Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) as required by the EAC demonstrates the inability of Woodfibre LNG to progress the project. Woodfibre LNG has failed to provide any updates on the status of EMPs to the community, as required in condition 24 and condition 25 of Woodfibre LNG’s Environmental Assessment Certificate.18
3.4.5 Conducted numerous meetings with relevant federal, provincial and municipal agencies and community groups on EAC conditions and Project permitting; To our knowledge, Woodfibre LNG only began community engagement in fall 2019, following concerns expressed by the District of Squamish that they were failing to fulfill condition 24 and condition 25 of their EAC. Requests to post a project timeline have been ignored by the proponent. The stakeholder engagement that we attended on 22nd October 2019 was farcical, with no meaningful engagement on the impacts to our health and emergency services. It should be noted that even though My Sea to Sky now represents more than 20,000 citizens from around Howe Sound, we were not originally invited
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 18 of 310Page | 10
to participate as a stakeholder at this meeting. Invitations were instead mostly targeted to organizations that have either accepted funding from Woodfibre LNG, or have not expressed concerns about the project. It was only after we became aware of the stakeholder engagement and requested to attend (copying the media and relevant politicians) that we were extended an invitation to participate at this meeting as a stakeholder. At a more recent stakeholder meeting hosted by Woodfibre LNG on 3rd December 2019 to discuss the floatel amendment, the number of stakeholders (three in total) were outnumbered by three security guards and five representatives from Woodfibre LNG and their consultants, Hill + Knowlton. Woodfibre LNG continues to deny access to the most basic requests for information, or to respond appropriately to questions asked of them, demonstrating an ongoing lack of interest in the concerns of local residents and stakeholders, and an unwillingness to engage.
3.4.6 Developed and maintained a dedicated Project website to keep external parties informed of Project activities consistent with EAC Condition 25. This website is currently undergoing renovation and updating, with a relaunch planned for Q2 2020; Woodfibre LNG’s Project website prior to the relaunched website in April 2020 was notably out‐of‐date, with little to no information available on project activities, project timelines, development of Environmental Monitoring Plans, or the fulfillment of conditions required in their EAC. The new website launched in April 2020 provides even less information about the current project status. To date, Woodfibre LNG has failed to fulfill EAC Condition 25.
3.4.7 Conducted consultation meetings with forest tenure holders, consistent with EAC Condition 19. No comment.
3.5 No statement of progress for associated project components Woodfibre LNG fails to note the status of the associated project components, such as the FortisBC Eagle Mountain to Woodfibre pipeline, or the BC Hydro upgrades. From the transcript of FortisBC’s Q4 2019 Earnings Conference Call, CEO Barry Perry noted FortisBC is still waiting on a decision from Woodfibre LNG. There appears to be some uncertainty that the Eagle Mountain to Woodfibre pipeline project will be part of FortisBC's five‐year plan come September 2020.35
3.6 No update on timelines for a Final Investment Decision (FID). Woodfibre LNG’s past FID in November 2016 does not appear to be genuine. Despite the “Final Investment Decision” that Woodfibre LNG appeared to make in November 2016 in the presence of Premier Christy Clark,36 Woodfibre LNG has repeatedly delayed their actual Final Investment Decision. This brings into question the reliability of Woodfibre LNG’s public statements, and whether future FID announcements are to be considered reliable and genuine.
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 19 of 310Page | 11
Below is an incomplete timeline: 5th November 2016: The Vancouver Sun reports “Premier Christy Clark donned a hard hat Friday to join Woodfibre LNG executive Byng Giraud, as he announced what amounts to his company’s funding approval for a proposed $1.6‐billion natural gas liquefaction plant. Giraud, country manager for Woodfibre LNG, said the board’s decision is the equivalent of a final investment decision for the project, which will export 2.1 million tonnes of LNG per year to Asia starting in 2020.”37 4th November 2016: Macleans reports that “Woodfibre LNG gives green light to what would be B.C.'s first LNG project” and “British Columbia’s efforts to launch a liquefied natural gas industry were given a boost Friday after Woodfibre LNG said it will proceed with its $1.6‐billion project in the Lower Mainland, the first proposed LNG development to go ahead in the province.”38 7th November 2016: Offshore Energy reports “Woodfibre LNG on Friday said its parent company Pacific Oil & Gas Limited, part of the Singapore‐based RGE group of companies, has made the final investment decision for the project.”39 18th November 2016: BIC Magazine headline reads “Woodfibre LNG becomes the first Canadian LNG project to receive Final Investment Decision.” The accompanying text states that “Earlier this month, Woodfibre LNG became the first Canadian liquefied natural gas (LNG) project to receive a Final Investment Decision (FID) to build an LNG export facility.”40 25th July 2017: Reuters reports that “Of more than a dozen projects proposed for British Columbia, only the C$1.6 billion privately held Woodfibre project has so far been given the green light by its developers.”41 26th July 2017: Global News reports that ““Woodfibre LNG near Squamish, B.C., is the only Canadian project where the company has reached a final investment decision to proceed,” the NEB noted.” IMPORTANT! Note that even the National Energy Board believed that Woodfibre LNG had achieved FID in November 2016. Then in 2018 the story changed. 28th September 2018: The Financial Post reports that “LNG Canada would be the first major domestic gas export project to be commissioned in the country and provide a sentiment boost to the country’s beleaguered gas sector. The smaller Woodfibre LNG project in Squamish, near Vancouver, has also been progressing but is awaiting an announcement on tariffs on imported steel components before ramping up construction.”42 17th October 2018: The Financial Post reports that “Woodfibre LNG is nearing a decision that would make it the second LNG project in British Columbia. “We’re looking for a notice to proceed to construction in Q1 (of 2019),” company president David Keane said. Keane said the company is currently working to finalize an impact‐benefits agreement with the Squamish First Nation, looking at ways to reduce the project’s costs and seeking relief on anti‐dumping tariffs for fabricated industrial components imported from Asia. “The federal government has been clear that if you get to a position where you need to make a final investment decision and (tariffs are) the last remaining issue, then they would be willing to take a serious look at it, but they would prefer you exercise all other options, which everybody is doing,” Keane said. The company is awaiting a decision on the tariffs from the Federal Court of Appeal.”43
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 20 of 310Page | 12
3rd December 2018: Natural Gas News reports that “LNG projects line up for FID… These include the front‐running 2.1mn mt/yr Woodfibre LNG project, which could achieve FID in Q1 2019.”44 19th August 2019: The Financial Post headline reads: “Woodfibre LNG poised to proceed with $1.6‐billion project within weeks.” Inside the article: “David Keane stated: “…we are hoping to have a final investment decision at the end of the summer or shortly thereafter.””45 18th September 2019: Upstream reported “The developers (sic) Woodfibre liquefied natural gas export terminal in British Columbia expects to finalise (sic) the engineering, procurement and construction contracts for the facility in the coming weeks, with a final investment decision to follow.”46 24th March 2020: The Squamish Chief reported that “Construction, expected to begin this summer, is now expected to start in the summer of 2021.” No mention is made of a revised timeline for a Final Investment Decision.47 As per Section 1.5, before Woodfibre LNG is granted an extension to their EAC, they should be able to demonstrate a solid business case for their project, confirm project financing, and make a Final Investment Decision.
4.0 What plans, including timelines, does the Holder have for advancing the project if the EAC is extended?
There is a notable absence of timelines or commitment to a Final Investment Decision by Woodfibre LNG’s parent company, and no mention of actual construction plans. Instead Woodfibre LNG focuses on site clean‐up and remediation; continued consultation with First Nations, government, and stakeholders; and advancing Environmental Management Plans. Given that the market for LNG has collapsed, we suspect that Woodfibre LNG is on hold as it is not currently economically viable.24,25,26 Before Woodfibre LNG is granted an extension to their EAC, they need to demonstrate a solid business case with guaranteed offtake buyers for their LNG, and prove that they have the financing necessary to proceed.
5.0 What are the details of Indigenous nation, stakeholder and other agency engagement on the proposed extension? With who has the Holder engaged, what did they hear and what response have they given?
Note that this question has not been answered by the proponent, as it only appears in the 2020 Certificate Extension Policy.3 To our knowledge, no stakeholder engagement has taken place on the proposed extension. Many local governments on the Technical Working Group have informed My Sea to Sky that they first heard about the proposed extension from our email dated 30th April, 2020.48
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 21 of 310Page | 13
6.0 Has new information come to light since the original EAC was granted that could change the conclusions reached in the EAO’s assessment of the project?
According to the BC EAO’s 2016 guideline for EAC extensions, “The time limit is in place to ensure that certificate conditions do not become outdated as a result of changes over time in government policy, technical standards, scientific information, legal/regulatory expectations, and other factors.”2 Woodfibre LNG completely fails to mention any new scientific or technical information that could change the conclusions reached in the EAO’s assessment of the project.1 To be fair, it is not in their best interest to do so, as this new information could jeopardize the success of their application. We have highlighted key scientific findings, physical changes, and policies that we believe would change the conclusions reached in the EAO’s assessment.
6.1 New scientific and technical information (for example, a new dataset in respect of a key valued component (VC) of interest or a new best management practice);
6.1.1 The need to limit warming to 1.5°Celsius In September 2018, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) warned that we must take significant action by 2030 in order to limit warming to 1.5 °Celsius (C) to avoid worsening the long‐lasting and irreversible impacts of climate change.34 The IPCC report recommends that human‐caused emissions of 34 carbon dioxide (CO2) need to fall 45% below 2010 levels by 2030, and achieve “net zero” by 2050. This will require a rapid, far‐reaching culture shift to immediately reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and minimize impacts on ecosystems and human health.34 However, the IPCC’s recommendations have been criticized as too conservative.49,50 Other scientific studies suggest that limiting warming to 1.5°C will not be sufficient to mitigate climate change impacts to ecosystems and communities.51,52,53 Climate change is happening much faster than scientists predicted,34,54,55 and new research shows that climate scientists have consistently underestimated the pace and severity of climate change.56
6.1.2 Existing oil and gas infrastructure jeopardizes the 1.5°Celsius target In August 2019, an article published in Nature warns that the emissions from existing fossil‐fuel burning energy infrastructure threatens the 1.5°C target recommended by the IPCC.57 The authors note that “little to
no new CO2‐emitting infrastructure can be commissioned, and that existing infrastructure may need to be retired early (or be retrofitted with carbon capture and storage technology) in order to meet the Paris Agreement climate goals.”57
6.1.3 More than 11,258 scientists declared a climate emergency, calling to replace fossil fuels with low‐carbon renewables, leave fossil fuels in the ground, support poorer nations in transitioning away from fossil fuels, eliminate subsidies, and steadily escalate carbon pricing. In November 2019, more than 11,258 scientists from 153 countries signed a declaration stating that: “Scientists have a moral obligation to clearly warn humanity of any catastrophic threat and to “tell it like it is.” On the basis of this obligation and the graphical indicators presented below, we declare, with more than
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 22 of 310Page | 14
11,000 scientist signatories from around the world, clearly and unequivocally that planet Earth is facing a climate emergency.”51 The declaration recommends that: “The world must quickly implement massive energy efficiency and conservation practices and must replace fossil fuels with low‐carbon renewables and other cleaner sources of energy if safe for people and the environment. We should leave remaining stocks of fossil fuels in the ground (see the timelines in IPCC 2018) and should carefully pursue effective negative emissions using technology such as carbon extraction from the source and capture from the air and especially by enhancing natural... Wealthier countries need to support poorer nations in transitioning away from fossil fuels. We must swiftly eliminate subsidies for fossil fuels and use effective and fair policies for steadily escalating carbon prices to restrain their use.”51
6.1.4 Life‐cycle emissions from BC LNG are comparable to coal
David Hughes, former federal government geoscientist and expert in unconventional energy notes: “If you compare full‐cycle emissions from B.C. LNG burned in China to a state‐of‐the‐art Chinese coal plant, B.C. LNG is 27 per cent worse than burning coal over a 20‐year timeframe.”58,59
6.1.5 Methane emissions from fossil fuel extraction is 25‐40% higher than previously estimated New research published this year in the journal Nature compared current methane levels to pre‐industrial era levels using ice‐core measurements. The study showed that methane emissions, mostly from fossil fuel extraction, are 25‐40% higher than previously estimated. This means that fugitive methane from the fossil fuel industry is contributing much more to our climate emergency than previously thought.60
6.1.6 One‐third of the increase in methane emissions since 2009 is due to fracking in North America Methane, the most potent greenhouse gas, has been increasing rapidly in our atmosphere since 2008, due to increased fracking for natural gas. The authors “…suggest that the best strategy is to move as quickly as possible away from natural gas, reducing both carbon dioxide and methane emissions. Natural gas is not a bridge fuel.”61
6.1.7 British Columbia is underreporting fugitive emissions A 2015 survey of well pads and facilities in Northeastern British Columbia revealed that the oil and gas sector is underreporting fugitive methane emissions.62 While the upstream impacts of fracking were not assessed in the environmental assessment for Woodfibre LNG, government support for LNG is predicated on the notion that LNG is “clean.” A different assessment of the US oil and gas industry revealed that supply chain emissions were ∼60% higher than the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency inventory estimate, “likely because existing inventory methods miss emissions released during abnormal operating conditions.”63
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 23 of 310Page | 15
6.1.8 LNG exports will likely increase global greenhouse gas emissions “…exporting LNG is likely to increase global greenhouse gas emissions. While uncertainty remains, methane leakage, additional energy demand, and decreased domestic coal displacement have the very real potential to undermine any prospective climate benefit in the long term.”64 “…policymakers, including regulators and legislators, must consider the complete climate ramifications of LNG exports.”64 “The sheer scale of potential LNG exports, corresponding increases in global emissions under the most probable scenarios, and lifetimes of LNG infrastructure make enhanced regulatory scrutiny not only necessary but imperative. Future LNG export facilities could become today's coal plants, where entrenched interests fight meaningful action to reduce climate emissions, with significant negative impacts on the global public.”64
6.1.9 The argument for natural gas as a transition fuel has been rejected The Union of Concerned Scientists have warned that “a natural‐gas dominated electricity system will continue to heat up the planet.”65 The Global Energy Monitor66 warns that expansion of an LNG industry is incompatible with the IPCC’s climate targets, and the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives warns that the addition of an LNG export industry is incompatible with BC’s climate obligations.67
6.1.10 LNG is not “clean” The Provincial Government claim that LNG is “clean” has been thoroughly debunked. According to a report by Pembina Institute, “The argument that exporting LNG from BC to Asia helps to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions typically hinges on two assumptions: 1) that the lifecycle GHG emissions of LNG are lower than those of coal; and 2) that increasing the natural gas supply will result in decreasing coal use.” The report concludes that both of these assumptions are unsubstantiated, and states that: “Claiming that natural gas, and specifically LNG from BC is a climate solution is inaccurate.”68 A letter published in the reputable scientific publication, Nature, notes that “…without new climate policies, abundant supplies of natural gas will have little impact on greenhouse‐gas emissions and climate change.”69 Another peer reviewed paper in Energy Policy notes that the “transition fuel” argument for gas development in BC is unsubstantiated by the best available evidence, and expressed concern that for the Provincial government to be using this label risks legitimizing carbon‐intensive development, essentially “green‐ washing” gas.70
6.1.11 LNG is in direct competition with renewables A letter written by 90 International Climate Change Scientists notes that “There is no evidence that LNG will replace coal in Asia,” and that “LNG will also likely displace nuclear power, renewables, and natural gas from other sources in many importing countries.”71 A recent LNG Industry article acknowledges that LNG requires “new” markets to be developed, and that LNG is in direct competition with renewables.72
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 24 of 310Page | 16
6.1.12 Renewable energy is the cheapest energy option According to a new report by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), unsubsidized renewable energy is now most frequently the cheapest source of energy generation.73
6.2 Physical changes to the airshed, watershed, landscape, or equivalent;
6.2.1 Howe Sound continues to recover, however several species and habitats are “critical.” In 2016, the Coastal Ocean Research Institute at Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre (now called OceanWise) published a new report called “OceanWatch: Howe Sound edition.”13 The report notes that “Howe Sound is showing signs of recovery. Recent observations of herring, dolphins, whales, and salmon tell us so. In parallel with this environmental recovery has been the rise of community groups to take on the responsibility of citizen science, restoration, and repair in this era of declining government capacity. Nature is proving resilient, but as we go forward, we need to foster a stewardship of Howe Sound that shows we have learned from our past mistakes.”13 This report provides baseline data for Howe Sound that was not available prior to 2016. My Sea to Sky has repeatedly informed the BC EAO that the lack of baseline data and peer‐reviewed science was a key concern. The absence of data meant that the decisions by the BC EAO were made in a vacuum, with limited data or perspective to properly assess the potential impacts of Woodfibre LNG throughout the environmental assessment process. The data available in the OceanWatch reports should be reviewed by the BC EAO, and used to evaluate whether Woodfibre LNG should receive an extension to their EAC. We believe this new data would change the conclusions reached in the BC EAO’s assessment.
6.2.2 Spatial data on Howe Sound marine ecology and priority conservation areas is now available The Coastal Ocean Research Institute and David Suzuki Foundation have partnered to create a Atl’ḵa7tsem/Howe Sound marine conservation map, that incorporates “scientific and local knowledge data layers that reflect this region’s unique and treasured marine ecology.”74 The map identifies Woodfibre Creek, located at the Woodfibre site, as a Priority Conservation Area, and states: “The area where Woodfibre Creek (along with nearby Mill and Foulger creeks) flows into Atl'ka7tsem/Howe Sound is at the epicentre of the ongoing tension between development and ecological recovery. Some of B.C.’s most culturally and ecologically important fish species have returned to the former site of the Woodfibre pulp mill, which was a major contributor to the sound’s degradation until environmental upgrades began in the 1990s. Salmon and trout have returned to Mill Creek, the location of Swiyát,̓ a traditional Squamish fishing village. Herring, which some believe are at the heart of the sound’s spectacular resurgence of marine life, are once again laying eggs along the shoreline. Herring are an important food source for cetaceans such as grey whales, orcas and dolphins, as well as seals, sea lions, salmon and many seabirds.
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 25 of 310Page | 17
Removal of pilings treated with toxic creosote at the old Woodfibre pulp mill site, in anticipation of the proposed liquefied natural gas plant, could support further herring recovery. But this hotly contested development could also jeopardize ongoing ecological recovery of the site and the wider Atl'ka7tsem/Howe Sound ecosystem.”74
6.3 Previously unknown or undetected effects (for example, a VC that was not a key concern during the initial EA has had a substantial change in condition that makes it a key concern presently);
6.3.1 Impacts of underwater noise on herring, salmon, and marine mammals In their assessment of alternative cooling methods, Woodfibre LNG notes that seawater cooling systems produce less noise than air cooling systems.75 However, the impact of this increased noise pollution from the change to an air cooling system, the resulting increase in underwater noise pollution, and its impact on marine organisms was not assessed in the BC EAO’s Environmental Assessment Certificate Amendment process (note that only atmospheric sound was assessed).76 The impact of underwater noise from the floating storage units has also not been assessed during either the original EA application or the amendment process. Woodfibre LNG’s own consultants, Hemmera, noted that “herring are at increased risk during spawning season and are sensitive to noise and physical disturbance.”17 Why wasn’t the impact of underwater noise assessed through the amendment process? This is a grave oversight, and studies should be requested to determine the impact of underwater noise on herring, salmon, and marine mammals.
6.4 New information regarding Indigenous interests. No comment.
6.5 Policy changes that would affect the BC EAO’s decision We believe the following changes to Local, Provincial, and Federal government policy would change the conclusions reached in the EAO’s assessment of the project, as Woodfibre LNG is incompatible with these new policies and legislation:
6.5.1 More than 475 communities across Canada declared a climate emergency in 2019 This includes the City of Vancouver, Richmond, Islands Trust Council, Squamish, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, Burnaby, Bowen Island, and Surrey.77
6.5.2 The Federal government declared a national climate emergency The legislation passed by the House of Commons described climate change as a “real and urgent crisis, driven by human activity, that impacts the environment, biodiversity, Canadians’ health and the Canadian economy;” and committed to meet the Paris Agreement targets, as well as deeper reductions to keep global warming below 1.5°C.78
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 26 of 310Page | 18
6.5.3 Squamish’s climate action plan is incompatible with development of Woodfibre LNG The District of Squamish has adopted the IPCC climate targets of 45% below 2010 levels by 2030 and 100% below 2010 levels by 2050,79 and developed a climate action plan.80
6.5.4 Clean BC and the Climate Change Accountability Act In 2018 the Government of British Columbia released its CleanBC plan aimed at reducing climate pollution.81 Using 2007 as the baseline, B.C. is committed though legislation to reductions of: 40% by 2030; 60% by 2040; and 80% by 2050. In 2019, government introduced requirements to set sectoral emissions targets and an interim emissions target on the path to our 2030 goal, through the Climate Change Accountability Act.82,83
6.5.5 Changes to the Fisheries Act In June 2019 the Federal Government modernized the Fisheries Act.84 We believe the changes made to this legislation would change how the impacts to salmon and herring as well as critical fish habitat were assessed in the original environmental assessment for Woodfibre LNG.
7.0 Additional project considerations
Additional concerns that should be considered include:
7.1 High staff turnover Woodfibre LNG has demonstrated an inability to retain staff, with high staff turnover within the company.
7.2 Local job opportunities have not materialized To date, other than some construction and site remediation jobs, the majority of job opportunities have been contracted to US‐based consulting companies.85 Given that the project has stated that they will be building the project as modules overseas in order to save costs, it appears that the calculations of benefits for BC need to be re‐evaluated.
7.3 Exemption from 48% steel tariff sends steel jobs to China The Canadian Institute of Steel Construction slammed the Federal Government for exempting LNG projects from a 48% steel tariff, which enabled Woodfibre LNG and LNG Canada to import steel modules from China at the expense of Canadian workers. “These two projects, if done in Canada, would have created hundreds of thousands of construction jobs for all trades across the country. Projects like these employ skilled workers from all over Canada and not just in the local area. This is a hundreds‐of‐thousands‐of‐jobs‐lost kind of mistake,” said Ed Whalen, President & CEO of the Canadian Institute of Steel Construction (CISC).86 The calculations of benefits for BC need to be re‐evaluated.
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 27 of 310Page | 19
7.4 Tax breaks and subsidies mean less benefits for BC and Canada The Provincial and Federal governments have granted several tax breaks and subsidies for Woodfibre LNG since the project was approved in October 2015, including:
E‐drive subsidy87 Exemption from the BC Carbon tax88 3% reduction in corporate income tax89 Deferral of provincial sales tax on construction materials88 Exemption on 48% anti‐dumping steel tariff90 Accelerated depreciation rate91 The calculations of economic benefits that appeared in the original assessment need to be re‐evaluated.
7.5 Woodfibre LNG has lost their biggest customer, and new agreements have not been announced. In August 2019 Woodfibre LNG lost its biggest prospective customer, as Guangzhou Gas walked away from their Heads of Agreement for 1 million tonnes of LNG per annum for 25 years due to delays.92 LNG plants need binding long‐term contracts to secure investor funding. Woodfibre LNG now has no effective customer. Currently they have a non‐binding agreement with CNOOC for 750 thousand tonnes of LNG per annum for 13 years.93 They also have the agreement announced in June 2019 with BP Gas Marketing Limited for 750 thousand tonnes of LNG over 15 years.94 However, BP Gas Marketing Limited is not an end user of LNG, and would have to find buyers to sell Woodfibre LNG’s pricey product which is not guaranteed, especially as LNG prices in Asia have collapsed.24,25 Woodfibre LNG needs to secure buyers for their LNG to prove that their economic business model is viable.
Conclusion
We recommend that Woodfibre LNG should not receive an extension to its environmental assessment certificate due to these changes in economic context; changes to local, provincial, and federal policies; new and emerging scientific understanding; and the implications of developing new fossil fuel infrastructure in a climate emergency.
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 28 of 310Page | 20
Appendix 1: EAC amendment for a floating hotel or “floatel” for worker accommodation
Lack of housing and accommodation
In the latest amendment application for the proposed floatel, dated October 2019, Woodfibre LNG writes in their
Executive Summary (page i) that: “The approved Certified Project Description (CPD) did not include worker accommodation because, at the time of publication, enough accommodation options were thought to be available in the local communities for workers. Following issuance of the Project’s environmental assessment approvals, the detailed planning process identified the need for additional accommodation options to support the construction phase of the Project. Housing affordability and availability have come to the forefront for local government planning initiatives. In addition, community engagement discussions have suggested that there is a lack of rental housing and temporary accommodation options in Greater Vancouver and Squamish areas; a large influx of works into at‐market housing could create challenges for permanent residents to find affordable housing in an already restrictive local housing market.” However, the underlined statement above is patently false, as My Sea to Sky shared our concerns about the lack of available housing for temporary workers with both Woodfibre LNG and the BC EAO in 2014, and the proponent also demonstrated knowledge and awareness about the lack of available housing at that time, as documented below. In Woodfibre LNG’s initial submission dated June 2014 to identify Valued Components (VC), under the Infrastructure and Community Services VC the proponent notes that: “Temporary influx of Project‐related construction workers may lead to pressures on accommodation availability and cost.”
***** In our submission to the BC EAO for the initial review of valued components dated 25th July 2014, we highlighted the lack of accommodation in Squamish, and noted that Squamish had a near‐zero vacancy rate for rental properties, and asked: “Where will these temporary construction workers be housed? Squamish currently has a near zero vacancy rate for rental properties. → We request studies to determine impacts on the cost of housing and rental accommodation, and how this will impact low income families living in Squamish.
→ Will there be displacement of local residents from rental housing?
→ We request a study of short and long‐term housing availability for both the Woodfibre LNG and Fortis Eagle Mountain pipeline project labour. The study needs to detail remediation and mitigation measures.”
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 29 of 310Page | 21
***** In Woodfibre LNG’s Environmental Assessment Application dated January 2015,95 the proponent noted that” “Due to high demand for rental accommodations in Squamish and Whistler, there is little to no available rental stock. In Squamish, the overall vacancy rate for the 351 private townhouse and apartment units available in the community in April 2014 was only 0.3%, compared to the previous overall vacancy rate of 5.6% in April 2013 (CMHC 2014). Squamish was one of six BC urban centres (i.e., communities with over 10,000 residents) to experience a rapid vacancy rate decline of more than 3% between 2013 and 2014. Squamish experienced lower vacancy rates for townhouse and apartment units than the Vancouver Census Metropolitan Area (1.8%), or the collective vacancy rate of BC’s 27 urban centres (2.5%) for townhouse and apartment rental accommodations. In April 2014, Squamish had no private townhouse or apartment vacancy (0.0%) for bachelor apartments, one‐ bedroom or two‐bedroom apartments. Townhouses and apartments with three or more bedrooms had a 1.6% vacancy rate. Vacancy rates in Metro Vancouver averaged 2.8% in April 2014, with the lowest rates for bachelor suites (2.5%) and highest availability for units with three or more bedrooms (3.7%).” AND “Affordable housing is an issue in Squamish and Whistler because the local workforce, tourists, and non‐resident vacation housing owners created segment specific and significant demands on the supplies of local housing and temporary accommodation. Lack of affordable housing was one of the most common reasons noted as to why employment positions went unfilled in recent years in Whistler.” AND “The District of Squamish developed an Affordable Housing Framework for Squamish (Forbes 2013), which was based on an Affordable Housing Strategy adopted by the District in 2005 to facilitate stakeholder engagement in development of affordable housing actions. The need for government‐subsidized housing, affordable rental housing for families and individuals with low income, and affordable home ownership in the community are identified in the framework document as key issues (Forbes 2013). AND “Affordable housing is a concern throughout the SLRD Electoral Area D and consequently, the SLRD has incorporated affordable housing as one of its 20‐year strategic growth management goals (SLRD 2008).” Woodfibre LNG concluded in their January 2015 application that “workers sourced from outside the LAA could lead to increased demand on local housing and/or temporary accommodation and create availability and affordability issues for LAA housing and temporary accommodation” for both the Construction and Operation Phases of the project.
***** The BC EAO noted in its EA Certificate Assessment Report, dated 19th August 2015, that: “The Application reported that there has been substantial population growth in the DOS and other areas in the LAA in recent years. Table 7‐1 shows population growth between 2001 and 2011. As a result there is a high demand for housing in the area and real estate prices are increasing.”
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 30 of 310Page | 22
AND “The Application indicated that the supply of affordable and accessible housing continues to be a key concern for the communities in the LAA. The Application also indicated that rental accommodation is limited and in high demand in Whistler and Squamish, resulting in high rental costs… The Application noted that in April 2014, the overall vacancy rate for private townhouses and apartment buildings in Squamish was only 0.3 %.” AND “The Application stated that during construction, workers sourced from outside of the LAA (approximately 40 % of the required labour force) would require temporary accommodation within the LAA.” AND “The proposed Project would not include provisions for temporary accommodation such as construction work camps for non‐local construction workers. Instead, the Proponent expects that workers would rely on available rental housing and temporary accommodation in Metro Vancouver, Whistler and Squamish. This could increase the demand for rental housing and temporary accommodation, further increasing pressures on housing availability and costs in these areas. The temporary increase in population during the initial two years of operations would amount to approximately 130 persons, the majority of whom would be permanent residents of the LAA. A smaller portion of these workers would be temporary residents for approximately two years, responsible for training resident local staff. Key proposed measures to mitigate the potential adverse effects to housing and accommodation include:
A local hiring strategy to minimize the number of non‐local workers requiring temporary housing and accommodation; and A housing and accommodation advisor during construction and the initial operations stage to serve as a resource for non‐local workers seeking accommodation in the LAA.”
***** Woodfibre LNG cannot claim with any truth that they are only now aware that accommodation is a problem. Both Woodfibre LNG and the BC EAO have known for five years that housing and accommodation were a major concern for our communities and they have failed to act. As a good corporate citizen, Woodfibre LNG could have invested in building legacy housing for Squamish that could help to relieve our housing crisis, and instead they have opted for a cheap, temporary solution. This is unacceptable. The BC EAO failed to hold Woodfibre LNG accountable that the proposed mitigation measures to deal with the lack of accommodation within the LAA were completely inadequate and failed to incorporate appropriate mitigation measures such as building legacy housing as a condition of the environmental assessment. Instead, in approving the Environmental Assessment for Woodfibre LNG, the BC EAO opined that the project would have “no significant impact” on the availability of rental units in Squamish.
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 31 of 310Page | 23
Impacts of workers on local services and community dynamics
In its current amendment for the floatel, Woodfibre writes on page 4 that: “…during review of the Application and in subsequent discussions with Squamish, concerns were expressed regarding increased demand on local services if workers were housed in the community.” Again, we highlighted this as an issue in our previous submissions to the BC EAO for the initial review of valued components dated 25th July 2014, noting that: “Studies during construction of similar industrial projects show that: ● the number of workplace accidents increase. ● crime and substance abuse and misuse increase which leads to an increase in traffic accidents and collisions, as well as increased domestic violence. ● the additional demands on hospitals, counselling, police, and ambulance services results in reduced service capacity for residents.” We requested studies to quantify the impacts of temporary construction workers on emergency and health services and how that would impact service capacity for residents of Squamish and Howe Sound. We also asked for studies to determine the social and health impacts of increased crime and substance abuse/misuse, domestic violence, and demand for sex trade workers. None of these concerns were adequately addressed, and we believe that no studies have been undertaken, despite the available evidence of impacts from work camps at Site C and LNG Canada.
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 32 of 310Page | 24
References
1 Keane, D (2020) David Keane, Woodfibre LNG to Michael Shepard, BC Environmental Assessment Office, 24th March 2020. Letter re: Extension to Woodfibre LNG Limited’s Environmental Assessment Certificate (#E15‐02). 8 pp. Retrieved from: https://www.projects.eao.gov.bc.ca/api/public/document/5e7e843bbd1578001a125b86/download/Woodfibre%20LNG%20EAC%20E15‐ 02%20Extension%20Request%2020200324.pdf 2 BC EAO (2016) Requesting a Certificate Extension. Published April 2016. 10 pp. Retrieved from: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/natural‐resource‐stewardship/environmental‐assessments/guidance‐documents/eao‐ guidance‐certificate‐holder‐requesting‐certificate‐extension.pdf 3 BC EAO (2020) Certificate Extension Policy, Version 1.0. Published 24th April 2020. 9 pp. Retrieved from: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/natural‐resource‐stewardship/environmental‐assessments/guidance‐documents/2018‐ act/certificate_extension_policy_final_22apr2020.pdf 4 Thuncher, J (2015) Woodfibre LNG finalizing $25m land purchase in Squamish. Business in Vancouver, published 2015‐01‐22. https://biv.com/article/2015/01/woodfibre‐lng‐finalizing‐25m‐land‐purchase‐squamis 5 Offshore Energy (2015) Western Forest Products completes sale of pulp mill site to Woodfibre LNG. Offshore Energy, published 2015‐02‐ 09. https://www.offshore‐energy.biz/western‐forest‐products‐completes‐sale‐of‐pulp‐mill‐site‐to‐woodfibre‐lng/ 6 Aldous, R (2013) Former Woodfibre site tentatively sold. Squamish Chief, published 2013‐01‐13. https://www.squamishchief.com/news/local‐news/former‐woodfibre‐site‐tentatively‐sold‐1.1044101 7 Aldous, R (2014) Woodfibre environmental cleanup ongoing: official. Squamish Chief, published 2014‐07‐11. https://www.squamishchief.com/news/local‐news/woodfibre‐environmental‐cleanup‐ongoing‐official‐1.1203423 8 Woodfibre LNG (2015) Application for an Environmental Assessment Certificate, Executive Summary. 82 pp. https://projects.eao.gov.bc.ca/api/public/document/5886919de036fb0105768fe1/download/Executive%20Summary.pdf 9 Saxby, T (2014) More answers needed on Woodfibre LNG. Letter to the editor in The Squamish Reporter, published 2014‐03‐01. http://www.squamishreporter.com/2014/03/01/more‐answers‐needed‐on‐squamish‐woodfibre‐lng/#.V2‐xYZN97kI 10 Finn, E (2014) The re‐industrialization of Howe Sound would devastate BC's environment and tourism economy. Letter to the editor in Vancouver Observer, published 2014‐03‐24. https://www.vancouverobserver.com/opinion/re‐industrialization‐howe‐sound‐would‐devastate‐bcs‐environment‐and‐tourism‐economy 11 Barrett, B (2015) Scientists say Woodfibre LNG's planned cooling system could devastate herring. Pique Newsmagazine, 2015‐04‐23. https://www.piquenewsmagazine.com/whistler/scientists‐say‐woodfibre‐lngs‐planned‐cooling‐system‐could‐devastate‐ herring/Content?oid=2645410 12 Thuncher, J (2015) Herring spawn at risk from Woodfibre LNG: biologist. Squamish Chief, published 2015‐04‐23. https://www.squamishchief.com/news/local‐news/herring‐spawn‐at‐risk‐from‐woodfibre‐lng‐biologist‐1.1846807 13 Coastal Ocean Research Institute (2017) OceanWatch: Howe Sound Edition. Vancouver Aquarium. 364 pp. www.oceanwatch.org/ 14 Fedorenko, AY (1991) Guidelines for minimizing entrainment and impingement of aquatic organisms at marine intakes in British Columbia. Ottawa ‐ Ontario : Fisheries and Oceans Canada 1991. 99 pp. http://publications.gc.ca/site/eng/9.562585/publication.html 15 Woodfibre LNG (2015) Application for an Environmental Assessment Certificate. Section 5.18: Forage fish and other fish assessment. January 2015. 65 pp. See Figure 5.18‐2 on page 19 for the original herring spawn location maps used in Woodfibre LNG’s EA application. https://projects.eao.gov.bc.ca/api/public/document/58869193e036fb0105768fc6/download/Section%205.18%20Forage%20Fish%20Other %20Fish.pdf 16 Thuncher, J (2016) No log dump here please, say herring advocates. Squamish Chief, 2016‐02‐11. https://www.squamishchief.com/community/no‐log‐dump‐here‐please‐say‐herring‐advocates‐1.2169654 17 Hemmera Envirochem Inc. (2015) Woodfibre LNG Project: Herring Survey Summary Report. Prepared May 2015. 25 pp. https://projects.eao.gov.bc.ca/api/public/document/588691b4e036fb0105769000/download/Woodfibre%20LNG%20Project%20Herring% 20Survey%20Summary%20Report%2C%20May%202015..pdf 18 BC EAO (2015) Environmental Assessment Certificate #E15‐02 for Woodfibre LNG Project. Issued by the Honourable Mary Polak, Minister of Environment, and the Honourable Rich Coleman, Minister of Natural Gas Development, October 26 2015. https://projects.eao.gov.bc.ca/api/public/document/58869290e036fb01057690bb/download/Certificate%20%2315‐02.pdf
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 33 of 310Page | 25
19 CEAA (2016) Decision Statement Issued Under Section 54 of the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, 2012. Issued by The Honourable Catherine McKenna, Minister of the Environment, March 17 2016. https://www.ceaa‐acee.gc.ca/050/evaluations/document/109540?culture=en‐CA 20 Squamish Nation (2016) Squamish Nation Process/Woodfibre LNG Project Update. November 2016. 8 pp. http://www.squamish.net/woodfibre‐nov2016/ 21 Chapa, S (2020) Houston‐based McDermott confirms oilfield service company will file for bankruptcy. Houston Chronicle, published 21st January 2020. https://www.houstonchronicle.com/business/energy/article/McDermott‐oil‐field‐company‐files‐bankruptcy‐14991364.php 22 McDermott (2020) Fabrication facilities, Qingdao, China. Website accessed 2020‐05‐04. https://www.mcdermott.com/What‐We‐ Do/Fabrication‐Services/Fabrication‐Facilities/Qingdao‐China 23 Woodward A and Perper R (2020) Wuhan, China, and at least 15 other cities have been quarantined as China attempts to halt the spread of the coronavirus. That's about 50 million people on lockdown. Business Insider, published 2020‐01‐28. https://www.businessinsider.com/wuhan‐coronavirus‐officials‐quarantine‐entire‐city‐2020‐1 24 Williams‐Derry, C (2020) IEEFA update: Financial prospects falter for LNG projects. Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), published 2020‐04‐20. https://ieefa.org/the‐financial‐prospects‐for‐liquefied‐natural‐gas‐lng‐%e2%80%92‐once‐one‐of‐the‐globes‐hottest‐energy‐commodities‐ seem‐to‐be‐imploding‐before‐our‐eyes‐in‐the‐most‐recent‐step‐i/ 25 Bluegold Research (2020) Regional LNG Prices (Monthly Average). Website accessed 2020‐05‐03. https://bluegoldresearch.com/regional‐lng‐prices 26 Williams‐Derry (2020) Financial prospects falter for LNG projects: Cancellations mount due to coronavirus and falling demand. IEEFA update, published 2020‐04‐24. https://ieefa.org/the‐financial‐prospects‐for‐liquefied‐natural‐gas‐lng‐%e2%80%92‐once‐one‐of‐the‐globes‐ hottest‐energy‐commodities‐seem‐to‐be‐imploding‐before‐our‐eyes‐in‐the‐most‐recent‐step‐i/ 27 CSA Group (2018) End of Life treatment for CNG containers and tanks – A review of the 3D’s. Accessed 14th October 2018. https://www.csagroup.org/article/end‐life‐cng‐containers‐tanks‐review‐3ds/ 28 Marine Traffic (2020) LNG Capricorn, LNG Tanker IMO: 7390208. Website accessed 2020‐05‐03 via https://www.marinetraffic.com/en/ais/details/ships/shipid:711386/mmsi:538001387/imo:7390208/vessel:LNG_CAPRICORN 29 Marine Traffic (2020) LNG Taurus, LNG Tanker IMO: 7390167. Website accessed 2020‐05‐03 via https://www.marinetraffic.com/en/ais/details/ships/shipid:711390/mmsi:538001391/imo:7390167/vessel:LNG_TAURUS 30 Gowe, B (2016) Bob Gowe, Transport Canada to Laurie Parkinson, My Sea to Sky, 20th October 2017. Email communication re: How far is Woodfibre LNG through the TERMPOL review? 31 Gowe, B (2019) Bob Gowe, Transport Canada to Laurie Parkinson, My Sea to Sky, 12th February 2019. Email communication re: How far is Woodfibre LNG through the TERMPOL review now – February 2019? 32 Gowe, B (2019) Bob Gowe, Transport Canada to Laurie Parkinson, My Sea to Sky, 20th August 2019. Email communication re: Old and new questions about Woodfibre LNG and TERMPOL. 33 Gowe, B (2019) Bob Gowe, Transport Canada to Ruth Simons, Future of Howe Sound, 23rd December 2019. Email communication re: Woodfibre LNG Termpol review. 34 IPCC (2018) Global Warming of 1.5°C. An IPCC Special Report on the impacts of global warming of 1.5°C above pre‐industrial levels and related global greenhouse gas emission pathways, in the context of strengthening the global response to the threat of climate change, sustainable development, and efforts to eradicate poverty. 630 pp. https://www.ipcc.ch/site/assets/uploads/sites/2/2019/06/SR15_Full_Report_High_Res.pdf 35 Fortis Inc. (2020) Fortis, Inc. (FTS) CEO Barry Perry on Q4 2019 Results ‐ Earnings Call Transcript, published 2020‐02‐13. https://seekingalpha.com/article/4324041‐fortis‐inc‐fts‐ceo‐barry‐perry‐on‐q4‐2019‐results‐earnings‐call‐transcript?part=single 36 Prystupa, M (2017) Did Christy Clark Pull a Too‐Fast PR Stunt on LNG? The Tyee, published 2017‐01‐04. https://thetyee.ca/News/2017/01/04/PR‐Stunt‐LNG/ 37 Hoekstra G & Penner D (2016) Woodfibre proceeding with B.C.'s first major LNG project in Squamish. Vancouver Sun, published 2016‐11‐05. https://vancouversun.com/news/local‐news/premier‐clark‐making‐woodfibre‐lng‐announcement‐in‐squamish/ 38 Macleans (2016) Woodfibre LNG gives green light to what would be B.C.'s first LNG project. Macleans, published 2016‐11‐04. https://www.macleans.ca/news/canada/woodfibre‐lng‐gives‐green‐light‐to‐what‐would‐be‐b‐c‐s‐first‐lng‐project/
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 34 of 310Page | 26
39 Offshore Energy (2016) FID reached on Woodfibre LNG project in Canada. Offshore Energy, published 2016‐11‐07. https://www.offshore‐energy.biz/fid‐reached‐on‐woodfibre‐lng‐project‐in‐canada/ 40 BIC Magazine (2016) Woodfibre LNG becomes the first Canadian LNG project to receive Final Investment Decision. BIC Magazine published 18th November 2016. https://www.bicmagazine.com/industry/natgas‐lng/woodfibre‐lng‐becomes‐the‐first‐canadian‐lng‐project‐to‐rece/ 41 Williams N, Lou E, and Chow E (2017) Malaysia's Petronas scraps $29 billion western Canada LNG project. Reuters, published 2017‐07‐25. https://www.reuters.com/article/us‐canada‐lng‐petronas‐idUSKBN1AA2C8 42 Morgan G (2018) Natural gas sector poised for big boost if LNG Canada moves ahead. Financial Post, published 2018‐09‐28. https://business.financialpost.com/commodities/energy/natural‐gas‐sector‐poised‐for‐big‐boost‐if‐lng‐canada‐project‐moves‐ahead 43 Morgan G (2018) 'Dream scenario': Two more Canadian LNG projects inching towards construction. Financial Post, published 2018‐10‐17. https://business.financialpost.com/commodities/dream‐scenario‐two‐more‐canadian‐lng‐projects‐inching‐towards‐construction 44 Bowden J (2018) LNG Projects line up for FID. Natural Gas World, published 2018‐12‐03. https://www.naturalgasworld.com/lng‐projects‐line‐up‐for‐fid‐ngw‐magazine‐66409 45 Morgan G (2019) Woodfibre LNG poised to proceed with $1.6‐billion project within weeks. Financial Post, published 2019‐08‐19. https://business.financialpost.com/commodities/energy/woodfibre‐lng‐poised‐to‐proceed‐with‐1‐6‐billion‐project‐within‐weeks 46 Evans C (2019) Woodfibre LNG EPC award expected soon. Upstream, published 2019‐09‐18. https://www.upstreamonline.com/lng/woodfibre‐lng‐epc‐award‐expected‐soon/2‐1‐674378 47 Squamish Chief (2020) Woodfibre LNG extends timeline on Squamish project. Squamish Chief, published 24th March 2020. https://www.squamishchief.com/news/local‐news/woodfibre‐lng‐extends‐timeline‐on‐squamish‐project‐1.24104727 48 Saxby T (2020) Tracey Saxby, My Sea to Sky to Howe Sound municipal governments, 30th April 2020. Email communication re: Woodfibre LNG's request to extend their EA certificate. 49 Ahmed N (2018) The UN’s devastating climate change report was too optimistic. Vice. 15th October 2018. https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/43e8yp/the‐uns‐devastating‐climate‐change‐report‐was‐too‐optimistic 50 Waldman S (2018) New climate report was too cautious, some scientists say. Scientific American. 11th October 2018 https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/new‐climate‐report‐was‐too‐cautious‐some‐scientists‐say/ 51 Ripple WJ et al. (2019) World scientists’ warning of a climate emergency. BioScience, biz088. https://doi.org/10.1093/biosci/biz088 52 Steffen W et. al (2018) Trajectories of the earth system in the Anthropocene. PNAS August 14 2018, 115 (33) 8252–8259. https://www.pnas.org/content/115/33/8252 53 Spratt D & Dunlop I (2019) Existential climate‐related security risk: a scenario approach. Breakthrough – National Centre for Climate Restoration. 11 pp. 54 Xu Y et al (2018) Global warming will happen faster than we think. Nature 2019‐12‐08: Vol. 564 pp. 30–32. https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586‐018‐07586‐5 55 Cheng L et al (2019) How fast are the oceans warming? Science 11 Jan 2019: Vol. 363, Issue 6423, pp. 128–129 https://science.sciencemag.org/content/363/6423/128.summary 56 Oreskes N et al (2019) Scientists Have Been Underestimating the Pace of Climate Change. Scientific American, published 2019‐08‐19. https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/observations/scientists‐have‐been‐underestimating‐the‐pace‐of‐climate‐change/ 57 Tong D et al (2019) Committed emissions from existing energy infrastructure jeopardize 1.5°C climate target. Nature, 572, 373–377. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586‐019‐1364‐3 58 Thuncher, J (2016) Is LNG better than coal in China? Squamish Chief, published 10th February 2016. https://www.squamishchief.com/news/local‐news/is‐lng‐better‐than‐coal‐in‐china‐1.2169579 59 Hughes, D (2015) A Clear Look at BC LNG: Energy security, environmental implications and economic potential. Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, 26th May 2015. 50 pp. https://www.policyalternatives.ca/publications/reports/clear‐look‐bc‐lng
60 14 Hmiel, B., Petrenko, V.V., Dyonisius, M.N. et al. Preindustrial CH4 indicates greater anthropogenic fossil CH4 emissions. Nature 578, 409– 412 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586‐020‐1991‐8
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 35 of 310Page | 27
61 Howarth, RW (2019) Ideas and perspectives: is shale gas a major driver of recent increase in global atmospheric methane? Biogeosciences, 16, 3033–3046. https://doi.org/10.5194/bg‐16‐3033‐2019 62 Atherton, E et al (2017) Mobile measurements of methane emissions from natural gas developments in Northeastern British Columbia, Canada. Atmospheric Chemistry and Physics, 17, 12405–12420. https://doi.org/10.5194/acp‐17‐12405‐2017 63 Alvarez, RA et al (2018) Assessment of methane emissions from the U.S. oil and gas supply chain. Science 13 Jul 2018: Vol. 361, Issue 6398, 186–188. https://science.sciencemag.org/content/361/6398/186 64 Gilbert, AQ and Sovacool, BK (2017) US liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports: Boom or bust for the global climate? Energy 141, 1671–1680. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.energy.2017.11.098 65 Union of Concerned Scientist (2014) Infographic: The Climate Risks of Natural Gas. Published on 3rd February 2014. https://www.ucsusa.org/resources/climate‐risks‐natural‐gas 66 Nace, T, Plant, L, and Browning J (2019) The New Gas Boom: Tracking Global LNG Infrastructure. Global Energy Monitor. Published June 2019. 21 pp. https://globalenergymonitor.org/wp‐content/uploads/2019/06/NewGasBoomEmbargo.pdf 67 Lee, M (2018) LNG is incompatible with BC’s climate obligations. Policy Note. Published 11th July 2018. https://www.policynote.ca/lng‐is‐incompatible‐with‐bcs‐climate‐obligations/ 68 Horne M and MacNab J (2014) LNG and climate change: the global context. The Pembina Institute, October 2014. http://www.pembina.org/pub/lng‐and‐climate‐change‐the‐global‐context 69 Davis SJ and Shearer C (2014) A crack in the natural gas bridge. Nature 514, pp. 436–437. https://www.nature.com/articles/nature13927 70 Stephenson E et. al., (2012) Greenwashing gas: might a ‘transition fuel’ label legitimize carbon‐intensive natural gas development? Energy Policy 46, pp. 452–459. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0301421512003102 71 International Climate Change Scientists and Policy Experts (2016) Unjustified adverse greenhouse gas impacts of the Pacific Northwest LNG proposal. 26th May 2016. http://media.wix.com/ugd/f85bab_86eaddc3c8f04f5f967f0a5ccb333cda.pdf 72 Barallat L et al (2018) The Global LNG Outlook and its implications for Canada. LNG Industry. August 2018. https://www.lngindustry.com/magazine/lng‐industry/august‐2018/ 73 IRENA (2019), Renewable Power Generation Costs in 2018, International Renewable Energy Agency, Abu Dhabi. 88 pp. https://www.irena.org/publications/2019/May/Renewable‐power‐generation‐costs‐in‐2018 74 CORI (2020) Atl'ka7tsem/Howe Sound Marine Conservation Assessment’s online map. Website accessed 2020‐05‐04. https://howesoundconservation.ca/mapapp/ 75 Woodfibre LNG (2015) Assessment of alternative cooling methods: Response to EAO Supplemental Information Request. April 2015. 28 pp. https://projects.eao.gov.bc.ca/api/document/588691b5e036fb0105769008/fetch 76 Woodfibre LNG (2017) Application for an Amendment to Environmental Assessment Certificate #E15‐02. January 2017. 129 pp. https://projects.eao.gov.bc.ca/api/document/589385a2d3cfab001dff700d/fetch 77 Random Acts of Green (2019) 475 Canadian Municipalities have Declared a Climate Emergency. Published 2019‐04‐03 and updated 2019‐ 11‐14. Accessed on 2020‐01‐11. https://raog.ca/2019/04/03/457‐canadian‐municipalities‐have‐declared‐a‐climate‐emergency/ 78 House of Commons, Canada (2019) Vote No. 1366, 42nd Parliament, 1st Session, Sitting No. 435, Monday, 17th June 2019. https://www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/votes/42/1/1366/ 79 District of Squamish (2019) Climate Emergency Resolution. 2019‐07‐02. https://squamish.ca/yourgovernment/projects‐and‐initiatives/climate‐emergency‐resolution/ 80 District of Squamish (2020) Community Climate Action Plan. Adopted 7th April 2020 by the District of Squamish. 93 pp. https://squamish.ca/assets/e52fbd762a/2020_04_28_CCAP.PDF 81 Government of BC (2018) CleanBC plan to reduce climate pollution, build a low‐carbon economy. Press release, 2018‐12‐05. https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2018PREM0088‐002338 82 Government of BC (2018) Climate action gets new teeth with accountability act. Press release, 2019‐10‐30. https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2019ENV0110‐002082 83 Government of BC (2020) Climate Planning & Action. Website accessed 2020‐05‐04. https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/climate‐change/planning‐and‐action
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 36 of 310Page | 28
84 Fisheries and Oceans Canada (2020) Introducing Canada’s modernized Fisheries Act. Website accessed 2020‐05‐04. https://www.dfo‐mpo.gc.ca/campaign‐campagne/fisheries‐act‐loi‐sur‐les‐peches/introduction‐eng.html 85 Jaremko D (2017) KBR emerges as winner in Woodfibre LNG FEED, moves on to next step. JWN Energy. Published 2017‐12‐06. https://www.jwnenergy.com/article/2017/12/kbr‐emerges‐winner‐woodfibre‐lng‐feed‐moves‐next‐step/ 86 Canadian Institute of Steel Construction (2019) The Liberal Government Hands $42 Billion In Construction Projects to China At Expense Of Canadians. Press release published 2019‐08‐20 by the Canadian Institute of Steel Construction. https://www.cisc‐icca.ca/the‐liberal‐ government‐hands‐42‐billion‐in‐construction‐projects‐to‐china‐at‐expense‐of‐canadians/ 87 BC Hydro (2016) New eDrive electricity rate for LNG facilities. Press release published 2016‐11‐04 by BC Hydro. https://www.bchydro.com/news/press_centre/news_releases/2016/new‐edrive‐electricity‐rate‐for‐lng‐facilities.html 88 Zussman, R (2018) B.C. government promises rebates to carbon tax and PST for LNG industry. Global News. Published 2018‐03‐22. https://globalnews.ca/news/4099444/b‐c‐government‐promises‐carbon‐tax‐and‐pst‐rebates‐for‐lng‐industry/ 89 Government of BC (2019) Legislation introduced to complete fiscal framework for LNG investment, jobs and benefits. Press release, 2019‐03‐25. https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2019FIN0035‐000478 90 Thuncher, J (2019) Woodfibre LNG purchases essential equipment for Squamish project. Squamish Chief, published 2019‐08‐09. https://www.squamishchief.com/news/local‐news/updated‐woodfibre‐lng‐purchases‐essential‐equipment‐for‐squamish‐project‐ 1.23910913 91 Government of Canada (2015) Accelerated capital cost allowance for liquefied natural gas. Press release, 2015‐02‐19. https://www.canada.ca/en/news/archive/2015/02/accelerated‐capital‐cost‐allowance‐liquefied‐natural‐gas.html 92 Upstream (2019) Guangzhou Gas still seeking LNG after Canada deal lapses. Upstream, published 2019‐08‐14. https://www.upstreamonline.com/weekly/guangzhou‐gas‐still‐seeking‐lng‐after‐canada‐deal‐lapses/2‐1‐652228 93 Squamish Chief (2018) Woodfibre LNG signs preliminary 13‐year export deal. Squamish Chief, published 2018‐10‐01. https://www.squamishchief.com/news/local‐news/woodfibre‐lng‐signs‐preliminary‐13‐year‐export‐deal‐1.23447997 94 Thuncher, J (2019) Woodfibre LNG has a new customer. Squamish Chief, published 2019‐06‐26. https://www.squamishchief.com/news/local‐news/updated‐woodfibre‐lng‐has‐a‐new‐customer‐1.23868640 95 Woodfibre LNG (2015) Application for an Environmental Assessment Certificate. Section 7.0 Assessment of potential social effects. January 2015. 11 pp. https://projects.eao.gov.bc.ca/api/public/document/5886918ce036fb0105768fbf/download/Section%207.0%20and%207.1%20Social%20b ackground.pdf
My Sea to Sky | PO Box 2668, Squamish BC, V8B 0B8 | www.myseatosky.org Page 37 of 310Page | 29
Requesting a Certificate Extension
April 2016
Page 38 of 310
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Table of Contents ...... 2
Introduction ...... 3
Fees ...... 3 What is Substantially Started? ...... 4
Timelines for Applying for a Certificate Extension ...... 5
The Process ...... 6
Figure 1 – Certificate Extension Process Overview ...... 6 Process Steps ...... 7
Step 1 ...... 7 Step 2 ...... 7 Step 3 ...... 8 Step 4 ...... 8 EAO Contact Information ...... 9
Page 39 of 310 Requesting a Certificate Extension April 2016
3
INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this document is to provide guidance for certificate holders who wish to apply for a one- time extension of their environmental assessment certificate.
The Environmental Assessment Act requires that an environmental assessment certificate specify a deadline (between three and five years) by which time the certificate holder must have, in the reasonable opinion of the Minister, substantially started the project or the certificate expires. If a project will not be substantially started by the certificate deadline, a certificate holder may apply for a one-time extension of the certificate for a period of up to five years.
The time limit is in place to ensure that certificate conditions do not become outdated as a result of changes over time in government policy, technical standards, scientific information, legal/regulatory expectations and other factors.
When considering a request, the Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) considers such things as the rationale for requiring an extension, the certificate holder’s compliance record, and new or changed potential significant adverse effects.
Certificate holders are responsible for tracking their own certificate expiry date and applying for an extension at least nine months prior to the expiry date as set out in the Environmental Assessment Fee Regulation. If a certificate extension is granted, the project must be substantially started by the new deadline or the certificate expires.
The Minister of Environment has the authority, under section 37 of the Environmental Assessment Act, to add new conditions to a certificate if the project is not substantially started by the deadline specified in the certificate. This allows conditions to be updated if required.
Under Section 18(2) of the Environmental Assessment Act, a certificate holder may apply in writing to the executive director for an extension of the deadline specified in the environmental assessment certificate, stating why the proponent wishes an extension of the deadline.
FEES The fee for a typical certificate extension request is $10,000. EAO will generally issue an invoice within 30 days of receipt of an extension request. For more information on fees, see EAO Fees Overview on EAO’s website.
Page 40 of 310 Requesting a Certificate Extension April 2016
4
WHAT IS SUBSTANTIALLY STARTED?
A certificate extension is not required if a project is substantially started.
The term “substantially started” is not defined in the Act. Each situation is assessed in light of all relevant facts. Relevant factors include (but are not limited to):
• Has there been a significant investment of time, effort, and resources to physically develop one or more main project elements?
• Does the activity amount to a significant or important step to develop the overall project, or is the activity considered ancillary, secondary, or temporary?
• Would the proponent have undertaken the activity regardless of the project?
Additional guidance, provided by the BC Supreme Court in Taku River Tlingit First Nation v. British Columbia (Minister of Environment) 2014, includes:
• Based on the definition of “project” in the Act, the substantially started determination should address “primarily physical activities affecting the land environmentally, as contrasted with bureaucratic activities, for example, which do not.”1
• “The decision maker should focus less on the permits which have been granted and the money expended, and more on what has taken place physically at the site.”
• “Temporary structures at the site, if they will soon be removed followed by remediation, are less important to consider than structures which will be in place for the duration of the project.”
• To have been substantially started, the project needs to be started “in its essentials in a real and tangible way.”
• To be considered as part of the substantially started determination, activity must have occurred after the certificate was issued and before the expiry date in the certificate.
Detailed guidance for Substantially Started Determinations is available on the EAO website.
1 The Act defines “project” to means any: (a) activity that has or may have adverse effects, or (b) construction, operation, modification, dismantling or abandonment of a physical work. Page 41 of 310 Requesting a Certificate Extension April 2016
5
TIMELINES FOR APPLYING FOR A CERTIFICATE EXTENSION
Certificate holders are responsible for tracking their own certificate expiry date and applying to EAO at least nine months prior to the expiry if they will require an extension.
If the certificate holder is uncertain whether their project is substantially started, they may contact the appropriate sector lead at EAO to discuss the status of their project and whether it is currently substantially started.
Requests for an extension should be directed to the Executive Director of EAO in writing, and must thoroughly answer all questions as outlined in Step 2 of the process set out in this guide.
The Executive Director has the discretion to accept a formal request made less than nine months before the certificate deadline if satisfied that sufficient time remains to appropriately review the application (as outlined in the Environmental Assessment Fee Regulation).
Page 42 of 310 Requesting a Certificate Extension April 2016
6
THE PROCESS
FIGURE 1 – CERTIFICATE EXTENSION PROCESS OVERVIEW
Step 1 – Initial Discussion • Certificate holder contacts the EAO sector lead to discuss the status of the project and/or process for an extension
Step 2 –Submit Certificate Extension Request • Certificate holder submits a formal request for an extension in writing to EAO at least nine months before the certificate expires
• EAO will issue an invoice and payment order to the certificate holder within 30 days of receipt of request
• Fee payment is required within 30 days of the invoice date
Step 3 – Review of Extension Request • EAO circulates the extension request to appropriate regulatory agencies, other governments and Aboriginal groups
• Parties review the extension request and provide advice to EAO on the potential for new or changed adverse effects not anticipated at the time of the original assessment
Step 4 – Decision • Executive Director or Minister determines whether to grant a certificate extension
• If the extension is approved, additional conditions may be added to the certificate
Page 43 of 310 Requesting a Certificate Extension April 2016
7
PROCESS STEPS
STEP 1 Before submitting a certificate extension request, EAO recommends that the certificate holder contact the appropriate sector lead at EAO for an initial discussion about status of the project and/or the extension process.
STEP 2 For projects requiring an extension, the certificate holder submits a formal request in writing to EAO. The request must thoroughly answer the following questions in order to be accepted:
Why do you wish to extend the certificate and why is project development delayed?
What work have you done to advance the project?
What plans, including timelines, do you have for advancing the project if the certificate is extended?
Has new information come to light since the original certificate was granted that could impact the conclusions reached in the certificate? This could include:
o new scientific and technical information;
o physical changes to the airshed, watershed or landscape;
o previously unknown or undetected effects; or
o new information regarding Aboriginal interests.
An invoice and payment order will be issued within 30 days of receipt of the request. The certificate holder will have 30 days from the date of the invoice to remit payment. If fees are outstanding, EAO may refuse to consider the request further.
The request will be posted to EAO’s electronic project information center (ePIC). An EAO project lead will be assigned to lead the review.
Page 44 of 310 Requesting a Certificate Extension April 2016
8
STEP 3 EAO will circulate the extension request to appropriate regulatory agencies, other governments and Aboriginal groups for comment. This may include agencies and Aboriginal groups represented on the original working group for the project and could also include additional parties.
The parties will be asked to review the information provided by the certificate holder, provide input on the potential for new or changed adverse effects since the environmental assessment for the project, and recommend any new mitigation measures that may be required. This will take into consideration relevant new statutes, regulations, case law, policy, practices or guidelines that have arisen since the granting of the certificate. The timeline for this is at the discretion of the project lead, but is generally three to five weeks.
EAO will consider the comments received and resolve issues as required, including identifying any additional conditions that may be necessary. Where appropriate the certificate holder will be given an opportunity to respond.
STEP 4 EAO will refer the assessment to either the Executive Director or the Minister for a decision. Based on the information provided, the Executive Director or Minister will determine whether to grant a certificate extension and, if so, whether additional or revised conditions are required.
EAO will advise the certificate holder and other potentially affected parties of the decision. All relevant materials will be posted on EAO’s website.
Page 45 of 310 Requesting a Certificate Extension April 2016
9
EAO CONTACT INFORMATION
If you have any questions or comments about certificate extensions or require additional information about the environmental assessment process, please contact us at:
Environmental Assessment Office PO Box 9426 Stn Prov Govt Victoria BC V8W 9V1
Email: [email protected] http://www.eao.gov.bc.ca/
Page 46 of 310 Requesting a Certificate Extension April 2016
March 24, 2020
Environmental Assessment Office PO Box 946 Stn Prov Govt Victoria, BC V8W 9V1
Attention: Michael Shepard, Executive Project Director, Oil & Gas Sector
RE: Extension to Woodfibre LNG Limited’s Environmental Assessment Certificate (#E15-02)
Dear Mr. Shepard,
Reference is made to Environmental Assessment Certificate #E15-02 issued to Woodfibre LNG Limited (Woodfibre LNG) on 26 October 2015 pursuant to the Environmental Assessment Act 2002, c. 43 (former Act) as amended (EAC) for the Woodfibre LNG Project (the Project). As stipulated in EAC Condition 8, the deadline for substantial start of the Project is five years from the date of the EAC (i.e. 26 October 2020). Pursuant to subsection 31(2) of the revitalized Environmental Assessment Act, SBC 2018, c 51 (EAA), Woodfibre LNG hereby requests an extension to the duration of the EAC to 26 October 2025.
1. Supporting Rationale
Woodfibre LNG acknowledges that while the revitalized EAA has come into force, there remain policies and regulations under development, including that which will inform an updated Certificate Extension Policy, that are not yet publicly available. For this reason, this request for extension has been developed in accordance with available guidance1 published by the Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) and gives due consideration to the information requirements laid out therein to provide the rationale to justify an extension of an Environmental Assessment Certificate for a project that has not yet seen a substantial start of construction. The process described in this guidance identifies four questions that must be answered in order for an extension request to be accepted by EAO. Accordingly, sections 1.1 to 1.4 in this request have been structured to answer these four questions.
1.1 Why is the Project development delayed and why do you wish to extend the certificate?
It is of utmost importance to affirm that Woodfibre LNG is fully committed to constructing and operating the Project and is therefore requesting to extend the EAC to allow Project construction to start after the current EAC expiry date of 26 October 2020, due to the reasons outlined in this letter.
Since the EAC was issued in October 2015, Woodfibre LNG has invested significant time, effort, and resources towards advancing the Project’s pre-construction requirements. Despite these efforts, there has been considerable technical, administrative and external challenges that have hindered
1 British Columbia Environmental Assessment Office (BCEAO). 2016. Requesting a Certificate Extension. Retrieved from https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/natural-resource-stewardship/environmental- assessments/guidance-documents/eao-guidance-certificate-holder-requesting-certificate-extension.pdf
1 Page 47 of 310
Woodfibre LNG’s ability to progress the Project into construction and hence, we are revising our construction timelines.
Among such challenges are those associated with the requirements to clean up and remediate the historic pulp mill infrastructure at the Project site. Not only has the scope of this work been greater and more time consuming than originally anticipated, progress was slowed in 2018/2019 when an EAC amendment was required to clarify that site clean up and remediation works did not constitute construction of the Project. Further details on the implications of these works on advancing the Project are described in section 1.2.
Further, Woodfibre LNG has invested significant effort in pursuit of EAC amendments to fulfill its commitments to Indigenous Nations and to make this the best project for the local community in which it intends to conduct business long term. These important amendments continue to divert internal resources away from advancing pre-construction requirements. Further details on the impact of pursuing these amendments on Project timelines are described in section 1.2.
It is also important to acknowledge recently emerged external factors, out of our control, that are influencing our progress. In particular, external factors causing complications in commercial negotiations regarding an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract and COVID-19 have impacted our schedule.
Last fall, Woodfibre LNG was nearing finalization of an EPC contract and announcement of a Final Investment Decision when our preferred contractor for engineering, procurement and module fabrication, encountered financial challenges. In January 2020, our preferred contractor filed for Chapter 11 in the United States and is now undergoing proceedings which are expected to continue at least until July 2020. While this filing has no relationship to Woodfibre LNG, it significantly slows progress on finalizing the contract and hinders our ability to advance engineering of pre-construction requirements. Woodfibre LNG is confident that our preferred contractor will emerge from the process in a strong position to advance critical engineering and procurement to support our construction effort. As our preferred partner, we have developed a strong relationship and a mutual understanding of our Project and we are continuing to work with them as they go through this process.
Woodfibre LNG is not exempt from the effects of COVID-19, the recently emerged global pandemic. At present, COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving health crisis that we are monitoring closely, consistent with our safety policy and commitments to employees, contractors and host communities. As other Canadian companies are doing, in developing business continuity plans, we are attempting to adjust timelines as the effects of COVID-19 unfold. While it is clear that COVID-19 has had implications for our vendor’s manufacturing facilities and fabrication yards in China, the schedule implications due to the delayed manufacturing of specialized equipment and fabrication of modules, related to the construction of our Project, remains unclear at this time. In addition, COVID-19 is causing serious economic implications around the world, creating widespread bank and financial market uncertainty. While we do not yet know the precise implications on our Project, this could lead to
2 Page 48 of 310
complications in Project financing arrangements and commercial negotiations regarding the EPC contract.
1.2 What works have you done to advance the Project?
We refer to the recent EAO publication “Guide to Substantially Started Determinations”,2 which describes a series of important factors that decision makers should consider as guidelines when forming a substantial start determination. These factors include:
. An assessment of the time, effort and resources invested to physically develop one or more main project elements; . Whether or not any activities completed are recognized as a critical path component (or considered as secondary or ancillary); and . Whether or not the activity would have occurred regardless of a project.
After reviewing all activities completed to advance the Project, Woodfibre LNG is confident that regardless of the significant investment of time, effort, and resources that have been expended, none of these activities may be attributed to the physical development of main Project elements. Further, Woodfibre LNG maintains that no physical activities described in the Project’s CPD (as amended July 2019) have been undertaken and thus no categorization of activities (i.e., critical path or secondary) has occurred. To date, all works completed to advance the Project are related to clean up and remediation of the historic pulp mill site and related infrastructure and/or are administrative in nature.
It is important however to acknowledge the efforts Woodfibre LNG has taken to clean up and remediate the Project site in order to advance the Project. To date, Woodfibre LNG has spent $13 million on clean up and remediation activities including but not limited to the removal of historic marine infrastructure (wharfs and other pile-supported structures), removal of greater than 4000 creosote piles from the marine environment and the ongoing removal and recycling of historic concrete slab foundations. These works are being completed pursuant to the Squamish Nation Environmental Assessment Agreement (SNEAA), Certificate of Compliance (COC) issued by the BC Ministry of Environment (BC MoE), and/or Lease Agreement with the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operation and Rural Development (MFLNRORD) and are a substantial undertaking. As is often the case for historic industrial and contaminated sites, unreported and thus unanticipated hazards have increased the scope of previously anticipated works and are taking longer than anticipated to complete. Therefore, although site clean up and remediation are not yet complete, advancing these works are a key step in progressing the Project towards construction.
Woodfibre LNG also references EAC Amendment No.1 (Air Cooling Technology) which Woodfibre LNG initiated in accordance with the SNEAA issued in October 2015. More specifically, Condition 1(a) of the SNEAA requires Woodfibre LNG to compare the environmental effects associated with alternative and varying cooling technologies. On 19 October 2016, after careful consideration and discussion of the alternatives, the Squamish Nation required Woodfibre LNG to employ air cooling
2 British Columbia Environmental Assessment Office (BCEAO). 2019. Substantial Start Determination Process. Retrieved from https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/natural-resource-stewardship/environmental- assessments/guidance-documents/eao-guidance-certificate-holder-substantially-started-determinations.pdf
3 Page 49 of 310
technology as opposed to the originally proposed sea-water cooling technology. On 27 January 2017, Woodfibre LNG submitted an application to amend the EAC to include air cooling technology to lessen potential long-term impacts on the local environment. On 12 July 2017, twenty-one months after receiving the SNEAA, Woodfibre LNG received Amendment No. 1 for Air Cooling Technology.
While completing this amendment was essential in advancing the Project, throughout the amendment period, the ability to progress many of the pre-construction conditions described in the Project EAC was limited. This was largely due to the requirement to include the potential changes to LNG cooling technology into both the Front End Engineering and Design (FEED) scope of work, and the proposed contract language for a potential EPC contractor.
With reference to EAC amendment No.2, Woodfibre LNG would like to acknowledge administrative challenges which delayed progress on completing site clean up and remediation works. This amendment application was initiated following direction received from the EAO on 30 November 2018, following a routine site inspection with representatives of the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) during which removal of creosote piles from the marine environment was observed. Woodfibre LNG maintained that the works observed during the inspection fell outside the purview of the CPD and were contemplated as part of an independent scope of work for the clean up and remediation of the historic industrial site. Woodfibre LNG was required to complete this work in accordance with the purchase of the historic pulp mill site and to honour those commitments made pursuant to its Squamish Nation Environmental Assessment Agreement (SNEAA) entered into with Squamish Nation in October 2015. Woodfibre LNG therefore pursued EAC amendment No.2 to clarify the breadth of the Project Construction phase through the use of more direct language that clearly delineated jurisdiction of the CPD. Subsequent upland activities that would have occurred under the clean up and remediation scope at the start of 2019 were left on hold until the EAC amendment was received. The approved application for amendment was received from EAO in July of 2019, eight months after the inspection that triggered it. Despite this pause in progress of the clean up and
4 Page 50 of 310
remediation work, obtaining this amendment enabled these works to resume and advance the Project towards construction.
In response to public feedback regarding additional accommodation options to support Project construction, Woodfibre LNG submitted to the EAO a third application to amend the EAC. The proposed Amendment No.3 includes the mobilization and operation of a floating hotel (or “Floatel”) and supporting infrastructure, and is expected to result in additional Project benefits such as:
. Reduced effect on at-market housing within the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District and Vancouver; . Reduced pressure on community infrastructure and services; and . Reduced vehicle traffic on the Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99).
Woodfibre LNG recognizes the effect the availability of sound and reliable worker accommodation will have not only on the Project but also on the local community. Woodfibre LNG intends to fully incorporate this scope of work into the necessary Project management systems, processes, and tools as appropriate (i.e., Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) required by the EAC prior to the start of construction). Woodfibre LNG anticipates receipt of amendment No. 3 in Q3, 2020, at which time it will be able to focus on completing detailed planning for the start of construction with the confidence that activities can be completed without unforeseen impact.
In addition to the EA amendments previously described, Woodfibre LNG has advanced engineering design, permitting and Indigenous engagement in order to achieve the following key Project milestones:
Invested greater than $40 million to date on FEED and detailed engineering; Procured candidate vessels for use as Floating Storage Tanks in 2014; Initiated TERMPOL review process through submission to Transport Canada in 2015; Obtained National Energy Board export licence to export LNG for 40 years in June 2017; Obtained British Columbia Oil and Gas Commission Facilities Permit in July 2019; Ordered the main cryogenic heat exchanger in August 2019, critical to the liquefaction of natural gas and part of a procurement process to de-risk the Project schedule by purchasing long lead items; Signed Impact Benefit Agreement (IBA) with the Squamish Nation in February 2019; and, Progressed IBA discussions with Tsleil-Waututh Nation.
Further, Woodfibre LNG has invested substantial effort towards advancing pre-construction commitments in the EAC. While completion of pre-construction commitments is still pending and subject to approval from EAO, efforts have included:
Development of draft EMPs required by the EAC and initiation of associated consultation with regulatory agencies and Indigenous groups; Conducted numerous meetings with relevant federal, provincial and municipal agencies and community groups on EAC conditions and Project permitting; Developed and maintained a dedicated Project website to keep external parties informed of Project activities consistent with EAC Condition 25. This website is currently undergoing renovation and updating, with a relaunch planned for Q2 2020; and
5 Page 51 of 310
Conducted consultation meetings with forest tenure holders, consistent with EAC Condition 19.
1.3 What plans, including timelines, do you have for advancing the Project if the certificate is extended?
It is important to acknowledge that the Project’s construction schedule is constrained by least risk timing windows, consistent with mitigation measures identified in the EA application and conditions of the EAC. Examples include Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) least risk timing window for the protection of marine fish and fish habitat in Howe Sound from August 16 – January 31 and the Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) guidance for avoiding certain works during regional nesting periods from late March to Mid August. Woodfibre LNG’s target to start construction is within the first year of extension of the EAC and within the least risk windows for marine fish and avoiding regional nesting periods. However, Woodfibre LNG recognises that unpredictable implications of external factors including the outcome of our preferred contractor’s Chapter 11 proceedings and the COVID-19 pandemic will effect Project timelines.
Between now and substantial start of construction, Woodfibre LNG plans to continue site clean up and remediation activities, and will remain focused on completing pre-construction requirements identified in our environmental assessment approvals and advancing permitting for the construction phase.
A key component of the current pre-construction phase is an assurance that commitments made through consultation with Indigenous Nations, engagement with the local community, and the regulatory review process are carried forward into the Project design and construction implementation processes. Woodfibre LNG will continue conducting consultation on the required pre-construction EMPs with identified Indigenous Nations, government agencies and stakeholders. Woodfibre LNG is targeting advancement of these EMPs by the end of 2020, pending completion of the EAC amendment #3.
An EAC extension will support Woodfibre LNG’s efforts in continuing to champion the principles of the Truth and Reconciliation Committee’s (TRC) Calls to Action and implement the spirit of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) as incorporated into British Columbia law through the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). Woodfibre LNG acknowledges the importance of free, prior and informed consent for Indigenous Peoples and their right to self-determination regarding development projects and activities that could impact their traditional lands. Woodfibre LNG respects that this consent must relate not only to environmental and economic issues, but also to social, gender, community health and cultural considerations as well.
The Squamish Nation have recognized rights and title to traditional lands that include the Certified Project Area. The Squamish Nation, through the Woodfibre Environmental Working Group (WEWG), provides us with a lens of traditional knowledge to field activities and for consideration during design and construction planning. Woodfibre LNG currently remains, and will continue to remain, actively engaged in advancing Project discussions through the WEWG.
In the spirit of the new legislation (DRIPA and EAA) and the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, Woodfibre LNG is also committed to working with Indigenous nations including the Tsleil-Waututh
6 Page 52 of 310
Nation. More recently, Woodfibre LNG has increased collaborative work with the Tsleil-Waututh Nation with a view to developing a more robust relationship through Tsleil-Waututh Nations Treaty, Lands, and Resources Department. Woodfibre LNG is working with Tsleil-Waututh Nation towards alignment on a common process. An EAC extension will enable Woodfibre LNG to respect community driven deliberations and seek mutually acceptable solutions.
In addition to pre-construction requirements of our environmental assessment approvals, Woodfibre LNG plans to advance the more than 100 permits required for construction and operation of the Project. The key focus between now and substantial start of construction is on preparing and submitting applications for permits required to enable the Project to start construction.
1.4 Has new information come to light since the original certificate was granted that could impact the conclusions reached in the certificate?
As described in section 1.2, since the original certificate was issued, significant discussion has occurred regarding worker accommodation for the construction phase of the Project. Based on feedback from the community and stakeholders, Woodfibre LNG has submitted an application in October 2019 for EAC amendment No. 3 to propose a floating worker accommodation at the site. Woodfibre LNG remains committed to completing the amendment process to ensure Project impacts on at-market housing, community infrastructure and services, and vehicle traffic on Sea to Sky Highway are minimized.
In addition, Woodfibre LNG acknowledges required changes to the Project site have resulted from the pre-construction clean up and remediation activities that may have affected the current site condition as characterised during the original EAC application and review. For example, the removal of historic marine infrastructure, including more than 4000 creosote piles, has changed the physical marine habitat, which could influence related environmental parameters. As such, Woodfibre LNG is committed, through existing EAC conditions and in meeting permit application requirements, to supplementing the existing multi-year baseline datasets, where required, to support monitoring of Project effects and effectiveness of mitigation measures.
Woodfibre LNG also acknowledges that procedural changes in the newly incorporated and revitalized EAA will play a significant role in the Chief Executive Assessment Officer’s decision with respect to this request for extension, under Section 31(4)(a) of the EAA. These new legislative measures empower Indigenous Nations to seek opportunities to build consensus amongst their potentially project-affected community members, and seek consent at key points in the assessment process.
Of importance to Woodfibre LNG is an understanding of the newly legislated requirements for consultation and engagement embedded in the recently revitalized EAA. Woodfibre LNG welcomes greater opportunities to consult and strengthen our relationships with Indigenous groups and stakeholders. An EAC extension will allow us the time required to address any potential implications of these changes while ensuring ongoing compliance with the EAA.
2. Closing
Woodfibre LNG submits that this request for extension of EAC #E15-02 has been completed in line with the guidance provided by EAO. This request considers the current state of Project activities in
7 Page 53 of 310
its determination that a substantial start of construction has not yet been achieved which, as a result, allows for an EAC extension request to be carried forward and considered by the office of the Chief Executive Assessment Officer. The rationale included as part of this request considers the circumstances which have resulted in the adjusted timing of start of construction activities yet also provides context to understand the activities that have occurred or are planned to occur on site. A timeframe for a reasonable start of construction has also been offered for information and consideration during the review of this request.
If you have any questions, please contact James Wilkinson, Senior Regulatory Manager at (604)620- 7883 or [email protected].
Sincerely,
Woodfibre LNG Limited
David Keane President
8 Page 54 of 310
Certificate Extension Policy
VERSION 1.0
APRIL 24, 2020
ISSUED BY: KEVIN JARDINE, CHIEF EXECUTIVE ASSESSMENT OFFICER ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT OFFICE
Page 55 of 310 Certificate Extension Policy [April 22, 2020] 2 Version Control History
Version # Date (YYYY-MM-DD) Modification Approved by Version 1.0 2020-04-22 Original document
______Scott Bailey, Assistant Deputy Minister Operations Division Environmental Assessment Office
______Amy Avila, Executive Director Strategic Services and Compliance Environmental Assessment Office
Page 56 of 310 2 Certificate Extension Policy [April 22, 2020] 3
Table of Contents
ABBREVIATIONS AND DEFINITIONS ...... 4
DEFINITIONS ...... 4
INTRODUCTION ...... 5
PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND ...... 5
FIGURE 1: EXTENSION APPLICATION PROCEDURES ...... 6 Step 1 – Initial discussion ...... 7 Step 2 – Engagement ...... 7 Step 3 – Application Development and Submission ...... 7 Steps 4-5 – Further information and supplementary materials (if required) ...... 8 Steps 6-7 – Application Received and Distributed ...... 8 Steps 8-10 – Review of application and draft extension report ...... 9 Steps 11 – Report finalized and decision ...... 9
Page 57 of 310 3 Certificate Extension Policy [April 22, 2020] 4 ABBREVIATIONS AND DEFINITIONS the Act Environmental Assessment Act (2018)
CEAO Chief Executive Assessment Officer
EA Environmental Assessment
EAC Environmental Assessment Certificate
EAO Environmental Assessment Office
Holder Certificate Holder
TAC Technical Advisory Committee
WG Working Group
VC Valued Component
DEFINITIONS
Certificate Holder
Holder of an environmental assessment certificate
Technical Reviewer
Members of appropriate regulatory agencies, other governments agencies, parties represented on the original Working Group (WG) or Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) from a project assessment, as appropriate. The WG or TAC is the forum for the detailed, independent technical review of the proponent’s documents and technical studies relating to an environmental assessment certificate application.
Valued Component
Components of the biophysical and human environment that are considered by the public, Indigenous nations, the proponent, government agencies, or scientists and other technical specialists involved in the environmental assessment process to have scientific, ecological, economic, social, cultural, archeological, historical, or other importance.
Page 58 of 310 4 Certificate Extension Policy [April 22, 2020] 5 INTRODUCTION This document provides guidance for carrying out the process leading to a decision with respect to whether to issue an extension to the substantial start deadline for a certificate This document is intended to help participants and the public better understand British Columbia’s pursuant to the Environmental Assessment Act (2018) (the Act), environmental assessment process. It is not advice, specifically Section 31. The primary users of this guidance will be and does not replace the Environmental Assessment Holders of environmental assessment certificates, (EAC), Act, or its regulations, or bind any decision-maker. If Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) staff, Indigenous you need advice concerning the BC environmental nations and Technical Reviewers. However, other participants assessment process, please seek professional from a provincial environmental assessment (EA) for a project, assistance. including the public, may also use this guidance document to understand the roles, responsibilities, and process requirements for an extension application. This Certificate Extension Policy is intended to be read and interpreted in conjunction with the Act.
PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND Under Section 31 of the Act, a Holder of an EAC can apply to the Chief Executive Assessment Office (CEAO) of the EAO for an extension to the deadline by which the project must be substantially started. The CEAO, on one occasion only, can extend the deadline by not more than five years. The CEAO also has the ability to add new conditions to the EAC at the time an extension is granted. Certificate extensions cannot be granted after the expiry of a certificate. If a certificate extension is granted, the project must be substantially started by the new deadline or the certificate expires pursuant to Section 31(6) of the Act. In the case of an expired certificate, any conditions related to reclamation or decommission remain in effect, and new conditions related to reclamation or decommissioning may be added pursuant to Section 31(8) of the Act. Pursuant to Section 31(5) of the Act, before making a decision with respect to an extension, the EAO must seek to achieve consensus with participating Indigenous nations.
Page 59 of 310 5 Certificate Extension Policy [April 22, 2020] 6 FIGURE 1: EXTENSION APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Step 1: The holder contacts the EAO to discuss necessity for an extension. The holder engages with Indigenous nations and any appropriate stakeholders.
Step 2: The holder drafts extension application containing requirements included in Extension Policy.
Step 3: The holder submits extension application to the EAO.
→ 2 Step 4: The holder completes any further information collection and engagement, if required. in points in - The holder completes any supplementary information requirements and materials, if required. 2
approach Step 5: Required supplementary materials submitted by the holder, if required. 2
Step 6: Fee Order issued.
Step 7: Extension application sent to Indigenous nations and Technical Reviewers.
seeking Consensus ←
*Consensus seeking milestone check Step 8: Extension application reviewed by the EAO, Indigenous nations and Technical Reviewers.
Step 9: The EAO completes extension report* and recommendation.*
Step 10: Extension report reviewed by Indigenous nations and Technical Reviewers*
Step 11: Extension Report finalized and decision made by the the CEAO.
2If required (depending on the completeness of the initial application in Step 3), the Holder will conduct further information collection and engagement and submit any supplementary materials.
Page 60 of 310 6 Certificate Extension Policy [April 22, 2020] 7 Step 1 – Initial discussion
Before submitting a certificate extension application, the EAO Section 38 of the Act allows the minister or chief recommends that the Holder contact the appropriate Sector Lead executive assessment officer to impose a time limit at EAO for an initial discussion about status of the project and the for doing anything under the Act. If it’s considered extension process. As a result of that conversation, it will be appropriate in the circumstances, a time limit can be determined if a certificate extension application is necessary and imposed regarding the submission of an extension for how many years the extension may be needed. The Holder and application. the EAO may discuss whether there will be sufficient time to consider and process an application before the substantial start deadline. An initial application (Step 3) should be submitted at least nine months prior to the certificate expiry date in order to allow the application to be considered.
Step 2 – Engagement
Before submitting an application, the Holder should engage about the extension with Indigenous nations that participated in the EA of the project and any appropriate stakeholders or agency representatives.
Step 3 – Application Development and Submission
The application from the Holder must include: • Certificate #, Project Name, Name of Holder • Why does the Holder wish to extend the EAC and why is project development delayed? • What was the length of time of the original EAC and why? • What work has the Holder done to advance the project? • What plans, including timelines, does the Holder have for advancing the project if the EAC is extended? • What are the details of Indigenous nation, stakeholder and other agency engagement on the proposed extension. With who has the Holder engaged, what did they hear and what response have they given? • Has new information come to light since the original EAC was granted that could change the conclusions reached in the EAO’s assessment of the project? This could include:
o new scientific and technical information (for example, a new dataset in respect of a key valued component (VC) of interest or a new best management practice);
o physical changes to the airshed, watershed, landscape, or equivalent; o previously unknown or undetected effects (for example, a VC that was not a key concern during the initial EA has had a substantial change in condition that makes it a key concern presently); or
o new information regarding Indigenous interests. The application should be submitted to the CEAO. The EAO will conduct an initial review of the application to determine if any further information, engagement or supplementary materials are required.
Page 61 of 310 7 Certificate Extension Policy [April 22, 2020] 8 Steps 4-5 – Further information and supplementary materials (if required)
If required (depending on the completeness of the initial application in Step 3), the Holder will conduct further information collection and engagement and submit any supplementary materials.
Steps 6-7 – Application Received and Distributed
Once all application materials for a certificate extension are received, they will be posted to the EAO’s project website. The EAO will circulate the extension application to Indigenous nations and Technical Reviewers for comment. The timeline of the review for these parties is at the discretion of the EAO Project Lead and is generally between three to five weeks. The EAO Project Lead will notify EAO Compliance and Enforcement of the application to discuss any challenges with clarity, measurability and enforceability of the existing certificate.
Consensus Seeking: The Act provides in Section 31(5) that before making a decision on an extension application, the EAO must seek to achieve, with respect to that decision, consensus with participating Indigenous nations. Consensus is achieved when an action is supported by a participating Indigenous nation and the EAO; or at least is not objected to by a participating Indigenous nation. Consensus is an outcome that can be achieved by engaging in meaningful, collaborative activities that support the sharing and analysis of information to inform decision-making. As with other aspects of EA under the Act, the EAO will seek consensus with participating Indigenous nations throughout the process leading to the extension decision. This will include consensus-seeking on the recommendations in the extension report within the scope of the extension application. Consensus seeking activities should begin at least by the time of the initial discussion between the Holder and the EAO and consensus-seeking activities would occur throughout the process leading to the decision.
Capacity funding for Indigenous nations will be assessed by the EAO on a case by case basis. The amount of funding provided will be reflective of the anticipated involvement of the Indigenous nation in the review of the extension application compared to other EA processes.
An invoice and fee order will be issued, typically within 30 days of receipt of the application. If fees are outstanding, the EAO may, amongst other things, refuse to consider the application further.
Fees:
Typically, within 30 days of receipt of an extension application, a fee order and an invoice will be issued to the Holder. The fee
for an extension application is $25,000. The fee order will be posted on the EAO’s website soon after it is issued. See the Fee
Guideline document on the EAO’s website for further information.
Page 62 of 310 8 Certificate Extension Policy [April 22, 2020] 9 Steps 8-10 – Review of application and draft extension report
Depending on the level of interest or concern expressed by reviewers, the EAO will act on one of the following options:
1. Where reviewers do not raise any significant concerns, the EAO will consider comments received and prepare an extension report for the CEAO. 2. Where reviewers express significant interest or concern, the EAO will prepare a draft extension report regarding the extension application and circulate it to the Holder, Indigenous nations and those Technical Reviewers who have provided comments on the extension application or otherwise indicated an interest in continuing to be a part of the review. Reviewers will be given a period to provide comments on the draft report, typically two to three weeks. The EAO will consider comments received and seek to resolve issues as required while revising the report as appropriate. The extension report will address the consensus or lack of consensus achieved. Where appropriate, the Holder will be given an opportunity to respond. The EAO will determine whether additional conditions are appropriate. This will take into consideration, amongst other things, potential new significant adverse effects, relevant new statutes, regulations, case law, policy, practices or guidelines that have arisen since the granting of the EAC. Additional conditions will require an amendment to the EAC and may be added to the EAC by the CEAO, under Section 31(4)(a)1 of the Act. Where additional studies or input are required to develop appropriate conditions, and cannot be completed prior to the EAC deadline, the EAO may consider recommending conditions to be developed after an extension application is approved, if it is approved under Section 32(5)(d) of the Act. Recommended conditions will be discussed in the extension report. Any amendment procedures will commonly take place concurrently with the extension application process.
Steps 11 – Report finalized and decision
The EAO will refer the extension report, including any recommended conditions, to the CEAO. Based on the information provided, the CEAO will determine whether to grant a certificate extension and, if so, whether additional or revised conditions are required via a certificate amendment. If an extension is approved by the CEAO, the EAO will advise the Holder and other potentially affected parties of the decision. Relevant materials throughout the extension application process will be posted on the EAO’s project website, including the extension report, letter and extension order.
1 The Holder may also apply for an amendment to add new conditions to the certificate.
Page 63 of 310 9 Regular Council Meeting April 27, 2020
DRAFT
Watch the Monday, April 27, 2020 Regular Council Meeting Video
Minutes of the Regular Meeting of Bowen Island Municipal Council held Monday, April 27, 2020 at 6:15 PM via Zoom. COUNCIL IN ATTENDANCE Mayor Gary Ander Councillor Sue Ellen Fast Councillor David Hocking Councillor Michael Kaile Councillor Alison Morse Councillor Maureen Nicholson Councillor Rob Wynen
STAFF IN ATTENDANCE Dennis Back, Interim Chief Administrative Officer Hope Dallas, Corporate Officer Raj Hayre, Chief Financial Officer Daniel Martin, Manager Planning & Development Patrick Graham, Director of Engineering Emma Chow, Island Community Planner Jennifer Rae Pierce, Planner 1
OPENING OF COUNCIL The Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:25 PM. MEETING
APPROVAL OF AGENDA It was Moved and Seconded RES#20-210 That Council approve the agenda and Late Items agenda for the April 27, 2020 Regular Council meeting as amended: • Item 3.8 Revised Parcel Tax Rate Bylaws; • Item 4.1 Letters from the public regarding motorized trail use on Mt. Gardner; and • Item 6.1 Letter from Rob Purdy re: Speed Bylaw. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
PUBLIC COMMENTS Rosemary Knight re: Trails on Ms. Knight shared a short video produced by the Trail Riders Mt. Gardner Association of Mt. Gardner as a recreation site for motorized use. Ms. Knight expressed her concerns regarding the proposed use of motorized vehicles on Mt. Gardner trails.
Page 1 of 9 Page 64 of 310 Regular Council Meeting April 27, 2020
Phil Osborne re: Provincial Mr. Osborne, President, Bowen Island Trails Society, spoke in relation Trails on Mt. Gardner to the safety and environmental concerns related to motorized trail use on Mt. Gardner. Mr. Osborne expressed the need for appropriate consultation with the various user groups.
Nerys Poole re: Provincial Ms. Poole, Member, Bowen Island Conservancy, expressed concern Trails on Mt. Gardner regarding the ongoing and proposed trail construction, use, and proposed activity by motorized vehicles on Bowen Island’s Crown Lands.
DG Blair re: Provincial Trails Ms. Blair, Co-Chair, Bowen Nature Club, expressing the Bowen Nature on Mt. Gardner Club’s opposition to the development of a motorized trail to the summit of Mt Gardner and concern with the existing environmental impacts of unauthorized trail construction.
Ross Beaty re: Motorized use Mr. Beaty expressed his concern with the proposed use of motorized of Mt. Gardner Trails vehicles on Mt. Gardner, specifically concerns with the impacts to the user experience.
Neil Boyd re: Motorized use Mr. Boyd expressed his concerns with the proposed use of motorized of Mt. Gardner Trails trails, including noise, environmental and safety concerns.
CONSENT AGENDA It was Moved and Seconded RES#20-211 That Council approve the items as outlined in the April 27, 2020 Consent Agenda as amended: • Item 3.7 Revised recommendation re: 2020 Water System User Rate Bylaws; • Item 3.9 Letter from Heather Miller re: Ferry service reduction (moved to Section 8 – Correspondence); and • Item 3.10 Letter from Oydis Dike re: Closed restrooms at BC Ferry dock (moved to Section 8 – Correspondence). CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
START OF CONSENT AGENDA
ADOPTION OF MINUTES
Minutes of the Regular That the minutes of the Regular Council meeting held March 23, 2020 Council meeting held March be adopted. 23, 2020. RES#20-212
Minutes of the Special That the minutes of the Special Council meeting held April 6, 2020 be Council meeting held April 6, adopted. 2020. RES#20-213
Page 2 of 9 Page 65 of 310 Regular Council Meeting April 27, 2020
Minutes of the Committee of That the minutes of the Committee of the Whole meeting held April the Whole meeting held April 14, 2020 be adopted. 14, 2020. RES#20-214
Minutes of the Regular That the minutes of the Regular Council meeting held April 14, 2020 Council meeting held April be adopted. 14, 2020. RES#20-215
BUSINESS ARISING FROM
MINUTES Ratification of Resolutions Council received the recommendations from the Committee of the from the April 14, 2020 Whole meeting held April 14th. Committee of the Whole meeting - Hope Dallas-Kerr, Corporate Officer
RES#20-216 That Council receive the Community Economic Development Phase 1 Findings Report as presented to Council on April 14, 2020.
RES#20-217 Whereas it is not appropriate to proceed with the Community Economic Development Plan Public Participation Plan, as presented at the April 14, 2020 Committee of the Whole meeting, at this time as a result of the current COVID-19 pandemic; Therefore Council direct staff to request from the Province an extension to the Community Economic Development Plan project grant.
BYLAWS Property Tax Rate Bylaw Council received a staff report and proposed bylaw to establish the No.509, 2020 - Raj Hayre, annual tax rates, required after the adoption of the Five Year Chief Financial Officer, dated Financial Plan Bylaw that was adopted on April 14th. April 20, 2020
RES#20-218 That Bylaw No.509, 2020 cited as “Bowen Island Municipality Annual Tax Rate Bylaw No.509, 2020” be read a first, second and third time and be finally adopted.
2020 Water System User Council received a staff report from the Chief Financial Officer Rates Bylaws - Raj Hayre, regarding the 2020 user rate bylaws for each of the municipal water Chief Financial Officer, dated systems. April 20, 2020
RES#20-219 That the 2020 Water System User Rate Bylaws be deferred to the May 11, 2020 Regular Council Meeting.
Page 3 of 9 Page 66 of 310 Regular Council Meeting April 27, 2020
Parcel Tax Rate Bylaws - Raj Council received a staff report from the Chief Financial Officer and Hayre, Chief Financial Officer, two proposed parcel tax bylaws to establish the rate for garbage dated April 20, 2020 collection and disposal and recycling services and for the Hood Point Water System capital reserve.
RES#20-220 THAT Bylaw No.518, 2020 cited as “Bowen Island Municipality Garbage Parcel Tax Bylaw 518, 2020”; and Bylaw No.519, 2020 cited as “Bowen Island Municipality Parcel Tax Bylaw 519, 2020” be read a first, second, and third time and finally be adopted.
Agenda Item 3.9 and 3.10 moved to Section 8 – Correspondence. CORRESPONDENCE
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES,
COW, COMMISSIONS Minutes of the Advisory No recommendations for Council's consideration. Planning Commission meeting held February 19, 2020
Minutes of the Mayor's Recommendations previously dealt with. Standing Committee on Community Lands meeting held March 12, 2020
INFORMATION ITEMS RES#20-221 That Council receive the information as outlined in section 12 of the April 27, 2020 Regular Council meeting agenda.
END OF CONSENT AGENDA
DELEGATIONS Tom Blackbird, District Mr. Blackbird provided an overview, via PowerPoint Presentation, of Recreation Officer, the mandate of Recreation and Trail Sites BC and the legal authority Recreation Sites and Trails and process for establishing new trails on Crown Lands. BC, Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Mr. Blackbird offered to share the existing agreements for authorized Operations and Rural use and maintenance of trails on Mt. Gardner. Developments- Presentation re: Understanding Discussion ensued. jurisdictional boundaries and duties related to Crown Lands on Bowen Island
BUSINESS ARISING FROM None. MINUTES
Page 4 of 9 Page 67 of 310 Regular Council Meeting April 27, 2020
BYLAWS Planning and Development The Manager of Planning and Development presented a staff report Procedures Bylaw No. 494, regarding the draft Development Procedure Bylaw No.494. The 2019 - Daniel Martin, proposed bylaw defines procedures and process for applying for Manager of Planning and various planning applications (e.g. Development Variance Permit, Development, dated April 17, Rezoning, etc.). 2020
RES#20-222 It was Moved and Seconded That Bylaw No.494, 2019 cited as “Bowen Island Municipality Planning and Development Procedures Bylaw No,494, 2019” be read a second and third time. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
Municipal & Regional District The Island Community Planner presented a staff report and Tax Program Application - PowerPoint Presentation regarding the status of the MRDT Emma Chow, Island application. Discussion ensued. Community Planner, dated April 16, 2020
RES#20-223 It was Moved and Seconded That Bylaw No. 504, 2020, cited as “Bowen Island Municipality Short Term Accommodation Tax Bylaw No. 504, 2020”, be deferred for further industry consultation. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
Bylaw Amendments for Short The Island Community Planner presented a staff report and Term Rental Policy #19-05 - PowerPoint Presentation regarding bylaw amendments required to Emma Chow, Island implement the Short Term Rental Policy. Discussion ensued. Community Planner, dated April 16, 2020
RES#20-224 It was Moved and Seconded That Bylaw No. 501, 2020, cited as “Bowen Island Municipality Land Use Bylaw No. 57, 2002, Amendment Bylaw No. 501, 2020”, be read a first time; and That Bylaw No. 502, 2020, cited as “Bowen Island Municipality Business Licensing Bylaw No. 465, 2018, Amendment Bylaw No. 502, 2020”, be read a first time; and That Bylaw No. 503, 2020, cited as “Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 196, 2008, Amendment Bylaw No. 503, 2020”, be read a first time; and That Council refer Bylaw No. 501, 2020 to the Islands Trust and Council refer Bylaws No. 501, 502 and 503 to the Advisory Planning Commission, Community Economic Development Committee and the Housing Advisory Committee; and That Council direct staff to hold appropriate community consultation for Bylaws No. 501, 502 & 503. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
Page 5 of 9 Page 68 of 310 Regular Council Meeting April 27, 2020
Traffic & Use of Streets Bylaw The Island Community Planner presented a staff report and No. 133, 2005, Amendment PowerPoint Presentation regarding a proposed bylaw to establish Bylaw No. 517, 2020 - Emma speed regulation on Bowen. Discussion ensued. Chow, Island Community Planner, dated April 16, 2020 Council members express concern regarding discrepancies in the proposed speed limits and what is currently posted. The CAO requested that Council send their comments to staff.
RES#20-225 It was Moved and Seconded That Bylaw No. 517, 2020, cited as “Bowen Island Municipality Traffic & Use of Streets Bylaw No. 133, 2005, Amendment Bylaw No. 517, 2020” be read a first time. (Mayor Ander and Councillors Kaile and Morse opposed) CARRIED
STAFF REPORTS Climate Action Strategy - The Interim Manager of Environment and Parks Planning presented Bonny Brokenshire, Interim the updated Climate Action Strategy via a staff report and PowerPoint Manager of Environment, Presentation co-presented by Councillor Hocking. Parks Planning and Bylaw Services, dated April 16, 2020 Discussion ensued.
RES#20-226 It was Moved and Seconded That Council approve the Bowen Island Climate Action Strategy as presented at the April 27, 2020 meeting. (Councillor Morse opposed) CARRIED
Heritage Alteration Permit The Planner 1 presented a staff report and PowerPoint Presentation (HAP-01-2020): 1314 Miller regarding a Heritage Alteration Permit that would increase the Road (MP Lightbody Ltd.) - existing nonconforming building lot coverage to allow for renovations Jennifer Rae Pierce, Planner to a primary residence, while also protecting an existing heritage 1, dated April 17, 2020 structure.
RES#20-227 It was Moved and Seconded That Council refer the Heritage Alteration Permit HAP-01-2020 to the Heritage Commission for comment; and That notice be given that Council will be considering the issuance of Heritage Alteration Permit HAP-01-2020 for the variance of building lot coverage from 500 sq m to 1,063.02 sq m (5.9% of the lot size) and the preservation of a heritage structure at 1314 Miller Road, legally described as LOT E, PLAN 22929, DL 1553, PID 016-284-712 at the May 25, 2020 meeting of Council; and That Council authorize staff to give notice for the consideration of issuance of Heritage Alteration Permit HAP-01-2020 in accordance with Section 499 of the Local Government Act to all properties within 100 metres of the legal boundary of 1314 Miller Road, legally described as LOT E, PLAN 22929, DL 1553, PID 016-284-712. Page 6 of 9 Page 69 of 310 Regular Council Meeting April 27, 2020
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
CORRESPONDENCE Bowen Island Bus Service Council received letters from the public regarding concerns of TransLink’s announcement to eliminate bus service effective mid- May, due to the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Discussion ensued.
RES#20-228 It was Moved and Seconded That Council authorize a letter to be sent under the Mayor's signature to TransLink expressing Council's concern with the proposed reduction in bus service on Bowen Island. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
Heather Miller, Artisan Office Council received a letter from Heather Miller, Artisan Office regarding re: Ferry service reduction, a number of concerns and requests relating to the current COVID-19 dated April 14, 2020 pandemic. Discussion ensued.
RES#20-229 It was Moved and Seconded That Council receive for information the letter from Heather Miller regarding ferry service reduction, dated April 14, 2020; and That Council direct staff to respond to Ms. Miller to 1) provide the list of essential services as established by the Emergency Operations Centre and 2) acknowledge Ms. Miller’s suggestions regarding the Ferry Advisory Committee and refer her correspondence to the Transportation Advisory Committee for recommendations to Council. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
Oydis Dike, USSC Marina re: Council received a letter from Oydis Dike, General Manager of the Closed Restrooms at BC Ferry Union Steamship Co. marina regarding the closure of the washrooms Dock, dated April 20, 2020 at the BC Ferry terminal. Discussion ensued.
RES#20-230 It was Moved and Seconded That Council receive for information the letter from Oydis Dike regarding closed restrooms at the BC Ferry dock, dated April 20, 2020; and That Council authorize a letter to be sent under the Mayor's signature to BC Ferries requesting the terminal washrooms be reopened or an interim measure be put in place. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
Page 7 of 9 Page 70 of 310 Regular Council Meeting April 27, 2020
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES,
COW, COMMISSIONS Councillors Hocking and Councillor Hocking and Nicholson reported that the BC Used Oil Nicholson, Council Members, Management Association has a service available for communities to Environment and Climate recycle used oil, oil filters, antifreeze and other recyclable materials, Action Advisory Committee at no cost. Discussion ensued. re: Recommendations from its meeting held March 4, 2020
RES#20-231 It was Moved and Seconded That Council direct staff to explore the feasibility of establishing a community collection program for used oil with BC Used Oil Management Association. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
Raj Hayre, Chief Financial The Chief Financial Officer noted the recommendation from the Officer re: Recommendations Committee has been addressed through the Financial Plan Bylaw from the March 9, 2020 Cove recently adopted by Council. Bay Water System Local Advisory Committee meeting
Councillor Sue Ellen Fast, Council discussed the recommendations from the Parks, Trails and Council Member, Parks, Trails Greenways Advisory Committee and the earlier presentation from and Greenways Advisory Tom Blackbird regarding the process for requesting authorization for Committee re establishing trails on Crown Lands. Discussion ensued. Recommendations from its meeting held March 10, 2020
It was Moved and Seconded That Council direct staff to prepare a report with proposed recommendations for restricting non-motorized use on Mt. Gardner and to report back to a future meeting. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
It was Moved and Seconded That Council rescind the previous motion. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
RES#20-232 It was Moved and Seconded That Council support prohibiting motorized use on Mt. Gardner; and that Council direct staff to prepare a submission to Tom Blackbird, Recreation and Trail Sites BC, requesting a prohibition of motorized use on Mt. Gardner. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
Page 8 of 9 Page 71 of 310 Regular Council Meeting April 27, 2020
NEW BUSINESS Metro Vancouver Director, Director Hocking reported on the Board meeting held April 24th, David Hocking re: Update to specifically Metro Vancouver is working with other levels of Council on Metro Vancouver government to address financial issues resulting from COVID-19. business View the meeting Agenda.
Islands Trust Municipal Trustees Fast and Kaile reported on recent Islands Trust business, Trustees Fast and Kaile re: noting that the Islands Trust budget has also been reduced as a result Update to Council on Islands of COVID-19. Trust business Trustee Kaile advised that he is awaiting follow-up from the Islands Trust CAO regarding the meeting held in March in Nanaimo and next steps.
Councillor Nicholson re: Councillor Nicholson noted that Metro Vancouver park attendance Update to Council on Metro has increased by 40% during the COVID pandemic. Vancouver Regional Parks Committee meetings Councillor Nicholson advised the next meeting of the Committee is scheduled for May 13th.
Councillor Alison Morse re: Councillor Morse reported on the TransLink meeting held on April Update to Council on 23rd ,specifically relating to the service reductions and financial issues. TransLink's Mayor's Council meetings View the meeting Agenda and Presentation.
ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE Dealt with under Section 8 – Correspondence. CONSENT AGENDA
Contained in Section 12 of the Council Agenda. INFORMATION ITEMS
QUESTION PERIOD None.
ADJOURNMENT By unanimous consent, the meeting adjourned at 9:33 PM.
Certified Correct:
Gary Ander, Mayor Hope Dallas-Kerr, Corporate Officer
Page 9 of 9 Page 72 of 310 Special Council Meeting April 27, 2020
DRAFT
Minutes of the Special Meeting of Bowen Island Municipal Council held Monday, April 27, 2020 at 4:30 PM via Zoom. COUNCIL IN ATTENDANCE Mayor Gary Ander Councillor Sue Ellen Fast Councillor David Hocking Councillor Michael Kaile Councillor Alison Morse Councillor Maureen Nicholson Councillor Rob Wynen
STAFF IN ATTENDANCE Dennis, Interim Chief Administrative Officer Hope Dallas-Kerr, Corporate Officer Raj Hayre, Chief Financial Officer
OPENING OF COUNCIL The Mayor called the Special Council meeting to order at 4:33 PM.
MEETING APPROVAL OF AGENDA By unanimous consent, Council approved the agenda for the April 27, RES#20-202 2020 Special Council meeting.
NEW BUSINESS Move to a Closed Council It was Moved and Seconded meeting That Council move to a closed meeting immediately following the RES#20-203 adjournment of the Special Council meeting to discuss items pursuant to Section 90(1)(i&k) of the Community Charter: (i) the receipt of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose; and (k) negotiations and related discussions respecting the proposed provision of a municipal service that are at their preliminary stages and that, in the view of the council, could reasonably be expected to harm the interests of the municipality if they were held in public. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
ADJOURNMENT By unanimous consent, the meeting adjourned at 4:36 PM.
Certified Correct:
Gary Ander, Mayor Hope Dallas-Kerr, Corporate Officer
Page 1 of 1 Page 73 of 310
Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No. 494, 2019
A Bylaw to establish procedures and policies for requiring development approval information for the Bowen Island Municipality
WHEREAS, the Council of the Bowen Island Municipality may, by bylaw, define procedures under which an owner of land may apply for an amendment to an official community plan, land use bylaw, or the issuance of a permit pursuant to the Local Government Act;
WHEREAS, the Council of the Bowen Island Municipality has designated areas within which Temporary Use Permits may be issued and within which Development Permits are required;
WHEREAS, the Council of Bowen Island Municipality may, by bylaw, establish procedures and policies on the process required for development approval information and the substance of the information that may be required;
WHEREAS, Council wishes to delegate the power to issue development permits pursuant to the Community Charter
THEREFORE be it resolved that the Council for Bowen Island Municipality in open meeting assembled enacts as follows:
1.0 Citation 1.1 This Bylaw may be cited for all purposes as “Bowen Island Municipality Development Approval & Procedures Bylaw No. 494, 2019”.
2.0 Definitions
In this Bylaw, unless the context requires otherwise: Applicant means any land owner who makes application under the provisions of this Bylaw or anyone who is authorized by the owner of the lands to make application. Application means an application for an official community plan amendment, a land use bylaw amendment, or an application for a development permit, development variance permit, or a temporary use permit. Application Form means a form provided by the Municipality for purposes of applying for an official community plan amendment, a land use bylaw amendment or an application for a development permit, a development variance permit or a temporary use permit. Fees Bylaw means the Bowen Island Municipality Development Application Fees Bylaw, 484, 2019, as amended from time to time.
Page 1 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 74 of 310
Manager means the Manager of Planning and Development for the Bowen Island Municipality or designate. Qualified Professional means a Landscape Architect, Qualified Environmental Professional, Professional Civil Engineer, Geotechnical Engineer, or other Professional approved by the Manager
3.0 Application of the Bylaw
3.1 This Bylaw is applicable to all lands and surface of water within the Bowen Island Municipality that is subject to any permit or application procedure as outlined in this Bylaw. 3.2 Requirements for applications to amend the Official Community Plan or Land Use Bylaw or both are set out in Schedule 1 which is attached and forms part of this Bylaw. 3.3 Requirements for applications for Development Permits are set out in Schedule 2 which is attached and forms part of this Bylaw. 3.4 Requirements for applications for Development Variance Permits are set out in Schedule 3 which is attached and forms part of this Bylaw. 3.5 Requirements for applications for Temporary Use Permits are set out in Schedule 4 which is attached and forms part of this Bylaw. 3.6 This Bylaw is not intended to conflict with any provision of the Local Government Act relating to any application or to fetter any statutory authority of the Municipality.
4.0 Scope
4.1 This Bylaw establishes procedures in relation to an application for:
(a) An amendment to the Official Community Plan; (b) An amendment to the Land Use Bylaw; (c) A Development Permit; (d) A Development Variance Permit; or (e) A Temporary Use Permit.
5.0 Applications
At Application
5.1 The Manager is authorized to establish and revise the application form for any application to be used from time to time pursuant to this Bylaw. 5.2 An application must be completed using the form provided by the Municipality and submitted, including required attachments, to the Municipality. The application is considered accepted when all the required information on the form, including fees, has been received.
Receipt of Applications
5.3 If a person submits a complete application and applicable fee to the Manager, the Manager must review the application.
Page 2 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 75 of 310
5.4 If a person submits an incomplete application to the Manager, the Manager may: (a) begin reviewing the application pending the receipt of all required information, including fees; or (b) refuse to review the application. 5.5 If the Manager ascertains an application is incomplete, the Manager must inform the applicant in writing as to why the application is incomplete and will not be review. Processing of Applications
5.6 Depending on the particulars of the application, it may be referred to other Municipal staff and applicable external agencies, organizations or levels of government by the Manager for review and comment. 5.7 The Manager may refer the application to Council seeking guidance on appropriate referrals and reports required to review the application. 5.8 Each agency, organization, or level of government may be given a minimum of 30 calendar days from the date of the referral to provide any comments. If after this period the agency, organization, or level of government has not notified the Municipality in writing about their concerns or advised of a delay in response, the agency, organization, or level of government may be considered to have no concern. 5.9 Despite Section 5.8, in referrals to the Island Trust as outlined in the Islands Trust Council/Bowen Island Municipality Protocol Agreement, the Islands Trust must be given a minimum of 45 days from date of the referral to provide any comments. 5.10 At any point in the review further information, including additional reports and studies, may be required by the Manager.
Number of Development Permit Applications
5.11 Where land is subject to more than one Development Permit Area designation, only one Development Permit application is required. However, the application must address the requirements of each applicable Development Permit Area as per the Official Community Plan and the Land Use Bylaw.
Development Approval Information
5.12 Pursuant to Section 484 of the Local Government Act, and as per the Official Community Plan, the Municipality may require an applicant to provide reports, studies, or assessments deemed necessary to evaluate the application. 5.13 The Manager may require an applicant to provide Terms of Reference for preparation of a report containing Development Approval Information. 5.14 Where Terms of Reference are required, the applicant shall provide to the Manager, Terms of Reference that consider the following information: (a) Information requirements identified in or that arise from any applicable objectives, policies and guidelines in the Official Community Plan, Land Use Bylaw, or other Municipal bylaw;
Page 3 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 76 of 310
(b) Information requirements specified in this bylaw; (c) That the information in the report will be prepared by a person having professional expertise and relevant experience in the matters included in the Terms of Reference; (d) The identity, qualifications and experience of the person or persons who the applicant proposes to engage and prepare the report; (e) The date by which the report is to be provided to the official; and (f) The form and number of copies in which the report will be provided. 5.15 The applicant may include in the Terms of Reference any additional matter that the applicant considers information that ought to be provided to the Municipality to permit a full understanding of the impact of the proposed activity or development. 5.16 If it is determined by the Manager that a report containing Development Approval Information is incomplete or deficient, the applicant will be notified in writing of the nature of the deficiencies and the timeframe to resubmit the revised report. If the applicant does not provide the required information within sixty (60) days of the request, the applicant may be notified that the file will be closed and that any applicable fee will be returned as per the Fees Bylaw.
Independent Review
5.17 If the Manager considers that the reports, studies, or assessments provided by the applicant, or any portion thereof, requires an independent review prior to being considered by the Municipality, the Manager may require the applicant to provide such a review of the information including the methodology used in its preparation. 5.18 The Manager may specify that the independent review be conducted by a member of the relevant professional association and specify terms of reference for the review. 5.19 The applicant must arrange for the independent review to be conducted and submitted in writing to the Municipality, at the applicant’s expense and within the time specified by the Manager.
Application Fees and Charges
5.20 The applicant for a permit application must pay the application fee as per the Fees Bylaw. 5.21 The fees prescribed in the Fees Bylaw apply to each parcel of land for which the application is made as follows: (a) if an application involves two or more contiguous parcels of land, the parcels of land must be considered as one parcel for the purposes of determining the applicable fees payable by the applicant; (b) if an application involves two or more parcels of land that are not contiguous, the parcels of land must be considered as separate parcels, and separate applications for the purposes of determining the applicable fees payable by the Applicant. 5.22 All legal fees incurred by the Municipality for preparation, review, and registration of any legal documents, must be reimbursed by the applicant prior to final consideration of the associated bylaw amendment or issuance of the permit. Page 4 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 77 of 310
Renewal
5.23 Council may consider one application for renewal of a Temporary Use Permit, provided: (a) No change in the approved permit is proposed; (b) The term of the permit has not lapsed.
Any further renewal will require a new permit application.
Lapse of Application
5.24 Upon determination of the Manager that an application has been inactive for period of 12 months or longer due to inaction on the part of the Applicant, the application may be closed. 5.25 Upon determination by the Manager that an application is inactive, the applicant will be given written notice of the determination and forthcoming closure. 5.26 Upon written request by the applicant prior to the lapse of the application, the Manager may extend the deadline for a period of 6 months. 5.27 Upon closure of an application any applicable refunds will be paid to the applicant in accordance with the Fees Bylaw. 5.28 If an application has lapsed, and no extension was requested or provided, a new application will be required in order to proceed.
Lapse of Bylaw Amendments
5.29 In the event that an application to amend the Land Use Bylaw or Official Community Plan made pursuant to this Bylaw has been received, but the resulting amendment bylaw has not received final adoption by Council within one (1) year after the date of receiving third reading, or has not received any further readings one (1) year after the last consideration by Council: (a) the applicant will be notified in writing and if no response is received within ninety (90) days, the bylaw will be deemed to be abandoned and the application file will be closed; and (b) Staff will prepare a motion for Council’s consideration to rescind all readings of the bylaw associated with the application; (c) any applicable refunds will be paid to the applicant in accordance with the Fees Bylaw. 5.30 Upon written request by the applicant prior to the lapse of the application, Council may extend the deadline for a period of one (1) year by passing a resolution to that effect to enable the applicant to complete any requirements.
Re-Application Intervals
5.31 If the Council rejects an application for an amendment to the Official Community Plan or the Land Use Bylaw submitted in accordance with this Bylaw, a person must not submit the
Page 5 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 78 of 310
same application within 12 months of the date of Council’s decision to not approve the application. 5.32 If Staff or Council rejects a Permit application submitted in accordance with this Bylaw, a person must not submit the same application within 6 months of the date of Council’s decision to not approve the application. 5.33 Where an applicant intends to appeal to Council to vary the time limit set in sections 5.31 or 5.32, pursuant to the provisions of the Local Government Act, the applicant must submit, in writing, a detailed statement as to why the time limit for the reapplication should be varied. 5.34 Despite section 5.31 or 5.32, Council may, by an affirmative vote of at least 2/3 of its members that are eligible to vote on the reapplication, allow a person to reapply within the one-year period. 5.35 Any re-application is considered a new application and additional fees will apply.
Change of Ownership
5.36 If there is a change of ownership of a parcel of land that is the subject of an application, the Municipality will require an updated title certificate and written authorization from the new owner prior to proceeding further with the application.
6.0 Security and Letters of Credit
Authority and Application
6.1 Pursuant to the Local Government Act security may be required as a condition of Development Permit, Development Variance Permit, or Temporary Use Permit issuance and can be for the following reasons: (a) Landscaping; (b) Repair of an unsafe condition that may result as a consequence of a contravention of a condition in a permit; (c) Repair to damage to the natural environment that may result as a consequence or contravention of a condition of permit; or (d) To guarantee the performance of the terms of a Temporary Use Permit.
Form of Security
6.2 Security will be provided in the form of an irrevocable letter of credit, bank draft, or in a form satisfactory to the Chief Financial Officer.
Amount of Security
Page 6 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 79 of 310
6.3 In imposing the security requirements of the Local Government Act, the Municipality may require the applicant to provide security of up to 125 percent of the cost of the installation and/or construction of the works required under an approved permit. 6.4 The Municipality may consider the application of security in phases, providing the phasing plan forms part of an approved Permit. 6.5 The Municipality may require estimates or quotes to be provided for the purposes of determining the amount of security to be provided. These estimates or quotes to be provided by a qualified professional retained by the applicant at the applicant’s expense, or as determined by the Manager.
Application of Security
6.6 Where, in the opinion of the Manager, an applicant has failed to comply with the conditions of the Permit or has created an unsafe condition, the Municipality may undertake and complete the work necessary to comply with the conditions of the permit or correct an unsafe condition or correct the damage to the environment, at the full cost of the holder of the Permit, and may apply the security in payment for the cost of the work, with any excess to be returned to the holder of the permit.
Return of Security
6.7 Unless otherwise stated in this Bylaw, the Municipality will return the security (or portion thereof) when a written request has been submitted by the applicant and includes a satisfactory report signed and sealed by an appropriate Qualified Professional (QP). The report must include, at minimum: (a) The date and drawing number of the plan(s) reviewed by the QP; (b) The dates of inspection by the QP; (c) A statement from the QP that the works substantially comply with the approved plan; (d) A description of all deviations from the approved plan(s) with a rationale for the changes and whether the changes meet the intent of the approved plan(s); and (e) The request of the amount of funds to be released. 6.8 When the applicant submits a request for the return of a portion of the security in addition to the report outlined in Section 6.7, the applicant must include a satisfactory report signed and sealed by an appropriate Qualified Professional that includes the following: (a) Submission of the work completed to date; and (b) that the work complete to date has met the appropriate standard; and (c) A cost estimate for the remainder of the works to be completed. 6.9 Upon receipt of a professional report submitted by the Applicant requesting release of security, the Municipality may conduct a site inspection to verify that the works are installed in accordance with the approved plans. 6.10 Where security is provided for landscaping or revegetation, the Municipality may withhold 15% of the original security for a period up to two years following substantial completion of Page 7 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 80 of 310
the works, to address any planting failures and ensure work functions as intended. A final inspection to the satisfaction of the Municipality must occur before the remaining 15% of the original security is released. 6.11 It is the applicant’s responsibility to request return of securities once conditions have been met. 6.12 Where a permit lapses without any works having been commenced, the applicant will be entitled to a full refund of any associated securities submitted.
7.0 Public Hearing, Meetings and Notification
Public Consultation for Permits
7.1 Council may provide opportunity for public comment, in the form and to the extent Council considers appropriate, before passing a resolution to issue a: (a) Development Variance Permit (b) Development Permit (c) Temporary Use Permit
Notice of Permit Application
7.2 Notice of an application must be given by the Municipality to owners and occupants of all parcels of land, any part of which is the subject of an application or within the distance specified in Column B below from the perimeter of the subject parcel:
A. Permit Application B. Notification Distance C. Newspaper Notice Required? Development Permit N/A No Development Variance Permit 100 metres Yes Temporary Use Permit 100 metres Yes
7.3 Council or the Manager may define an expanded notification area beyond the prescribed distances specified in sections 7.2. 7.4 The Corporate Officer will provide notices in the local newspaper in at least 2 consecutive issues of a local newspaper. 7.5 For clarity, nothing in this Bylaw affects or modifies, or must be construed as an attempt to affect or modify, the Municipality’s obligation under the Local Government Act, to give notice of a proposed resolution to issue a Temporary Use Permit, Development Permit, or a Development Variance Permit.
Notice of Application Signage
7.6 For the following applications, a notice sign must be posted for the parcel or parcels subject to the application: (a) An amendment to the Official Community Plan
Page 8 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 81 of 310
(b) An amendment to the Land Use Bylaw (c) An application for a Development Variance Permit (d) An application for a Temporary Use Permit 7.7 The Manager may determine the specifications, format, and content of the sign or signs, and provide the specifications to the applicant. 7.8 The applicant must, at the applicant’s sole expense: (a) Prepare and post the sign or signs in accordance with the specifications provided by the Municipality; (b) For amendments to the Official Community Plan and to the Land Use Bylaw, not less than fourteen (14) days following Council giving First Reading to an amendment Bylaw. The sign is to be updated: i. not less than ten (10) days prior to a Public Hearing to include the meeting date and time information with respect to the Public Hearing on the posted notice; or ii. In the event that an amendment bylaw has been revised and received First Reading for a second time, not less than ten (10) days following Council’s giving First Reading to the amended bylaw. (c) For applications for a Development Variance Permit or Temporary Use Permit, not less than ten (10) days prior to Council’s consideration, include the meeting date and time information with respect to the Council Meeting on the posted notice. (c) Maintain the sign or signs on the subject parcel or parcels throughout the required period; (d) Remove the signs within two weeks of the application being refused or approved by the Municipal Council or within two weeks of the application being withdrawn by the applicant. 7.9 The applicant must post the sign or signs in a prominent location, clearly visible from the adjacent street, on each frontage and parcel subject to the application, or in a location as specified by the Manager. 7.10 The applicant must provide the Manager with photographic evidence confirming that all notice signs required by this Bylaw have been installed before the application is considered at a Public Hearing or a regular meeting of Council. 7.11 Failure to post the required notice sign(s) in accordance with this Bylaw may result in the postponement of consideration of the application by Council.
Public Information Meeting
7.12 For applications to amend the Official Community Plan and to amend the Land Use Bylaw, unless waived in writing by the Manager, an applicant must host and facilitate a Public Information Meeting, at a time and location approved by the Manager, to provide an additional opportunity for the public to access information and to inquire about the proposal beyond that available through the standard application referral and public hearing processes.
Page 9 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 82 of 310
7.13 For permit applications the Manager may require an applicant to facilitate a Public Information Meeting. 7.14 The applicant is responsible for making arrangements for the meeting, conducting the meeting, and paying all costs related to the meeting. 7.15 The applicant must ensure that notice of the meeting is placed in one edition of the local newspaper and mailed or otherwise delivered to adjacent landowners and occupiers of all properties within a 100 metre radius of the parcels under consideration. 7.16 At the meeting: (a) Visual material, such as presentation boards are to be provided; (b) The public is to have an opportunity to ask questions and informally discuss the project; and (c) Municipal staff may attend as observers and be available to respond to questions on planning process and collect comment sheets at the meeting. 7.17 Applicants are required to submit a report to the Municipality summarizing the meeting to provide the following information: (a) Location, time and duration of meeting; (b) Number of attendees; (c) How the meeting was advertised and how surrounding property owners were notified; (d) Information provided at the meeting; and (e) A summation of questions raised and major discussion points. 7.18 Applicants requesting an Official Community Plan or Land Use Bylaw amendment must provide the summary report described in section 7.17 to the Municipality at least fourteen (14) days before the scheduled Public Hearing and no later than twenty-one (21) days following the Public Information meeting. 7.19 Applicants requesting a Permit must provide the summary report described in section 7.17 to the Municipality at least seven (7) days prior to Council’s consideration of the application. 7.20 If an application is revised following the holding of a Public Information Meeting, an applicant must host and facilitate an additional Public Information Meeting, unless waived in writing by the Manager.
Public Hearings for Bylaw Amendments
7.21 In accordance with the Local Government Act, a Public Hearing is required before Council adopts a bylaw to: (a) Amend the Official Community Plan (b) Amend the Land Use Bylaw.
Waiving of Requirement for Public Hearing
7.22 In the case of an application to amend a Land Use Bylaw, Council may waive requirements for holding a Public Hearing in accordance with the provisions of Section 467 of the Local
Page 10 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 83 of 310
Government Act where the application is consistent with the provisions of the Official Community Plan and Council deems the application to be in the public interest.
Notice of Public Hearing
7.23 Notice of Public Hearing must be mailed or otherwise delivered at least 10 days before the Public Hearing to owners and occupants of: (a) All parcels, any part of which is within the area subject to the bylaw amendment; and (b) All parcels, any part of which is within a distance of 100 metres from the area that is subject to the bylaw amendment. 7.24 Council or the Manager may define an expanded notification area beyond the prescribed distances specified in sections 7.23. 7.25 If an amendment affects more than ten properties owned by ten or more persons, the Manager may waive the requirement 7.26 The Corporate Officer will provide notice of Public Hearing in the local newspaper in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act.
8.0 Delegation of Authority
8.1 Council hereby delegates to the Municipality's Island Community Planner all of the powers, duties and functions of the Council in respect of development permits under the Local Government Act
8.2 All of the following apply to any decision by a delegate under section 8.1:
(a) Any owner of property that is subject to a decision under section 8.1 who is dissatisfied with the decision is entitled to have the decision reconsidered by Council in accordance with this section. (b) An owner who wishes to have a decision reconsidered by Council must apply for the reconsideration by delivering to the Chief Administrative Officer, within 30 days after the decision is communicated in writing to the owner, a request for reconsideration in writing, which must set out all of the following: i. The name of the delegate who made the decision, the date of the decision and the nature of the decision; ii. Reasons why the owner wishes the decision to be reconsidered by Council; iii. The decision the owner requests be made by Council, with brief reasons in support of the requested decision; and iv. A copy of any materials considered by the owner to be relevant to the reconsideration by Council; (c) A request for reconsideration must be considered by Council at a regular meeting of Council held no more than two months after the date on which the request is delivered to the Chief Administrative Officer. (d) The Chief Administrative Officer must: i. Place each request for consideration on the agenda for a regular meeting of Council;
Page 11 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 84 of 310
ii. Give notice of each reconsideration by Council in accordance with any notice requirements in respect of the original application that are set out in this Bylaw or the Local Government Act; and iii. Before each reconsideration by Council, include on the agenda a copy of the materials that were considered by the delegate in making the decision that is to be reconsidered; (e) In reconsidering a decision, the Council must consider the material that was considered by the delegate in making the decision; (f) At a reconsideration of a decision, the owner and any other person who is interested in the decision are entitled to be heard by Council; (g) Council is entitled to adjourn a reconsideration of a decision; and (h) After having reconsidered a decision, Council may either confirm the decision or may set aside the decision and substitute the decision of Council.
9.0 Other Provisions
Severability 9.1 If any section, sub-clause or phrase forming part of this Bylaw is for any reason held to be invalid by the decision of any Court of competent jurisdiction, the invalid portion must be severed from the bylaw without affecting the validity of the remainder
Repeal of Previous Bylaws
9.2 The following bylaw and any amendments to that bylaw thereto are hereby repealed: (a) Bowen Island Trust Committee Bylaw No. 121, 1992. (b) Bowen Island Municipality Development Permits Delegation Bylaw No. 98, 2003.
READ A FIRST TIME this 24th day of February, 2020;
READ A SECOND TIME this 27th day of April, 2020;
READ A THIRD TIME this 27th day of April, 2020; and
FINALLY ADOPTED this ____ day of ____, 2020.
______Gary Ander Hope Dallas-Kerr Mayor Corporate Officer
Page 12 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 85 of 310
Schedule 1 – Official Community Plan and Land Use Bylaw Amendment Applications
Land Title: recent certificate of title (within 90 days of receipt of application) for the subject property
all covenants, building schemes and easements registered on title
Application Form: completed application form
written authorization of all owners on the certificate of title
Site Plan (2 copies, no larger than 11” x 17”) showing:
all uses, existing and proposed, on the property, including buildings and structures
dimensions and floor areas of existing and proposed buildings
height of existing and proposed buildings, additions, structures
setbacks for existing and proposed buildings to property lines, natural boundary of sea, lakes, wetlands and watercourses
setback of existing and proposed septic field to natural boundary of the sea, lakes and watercourses (where applicable)
parking areas including numbered parking stalls, aisle widths, stall dimensions (where applicable)
location of wells, drainage areas, ponds and topographic features
locations and dimensions of all legal easements, covenant areas and utility corridors
north arrow, street names
Page 13 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 86 of 310
Schedule 2 – Development Permit Applications
Land Title: recent certificate of title (within 90 days of receipt of application) for the subject property
all covenants, building schemes and easements registered on title
Application Form: completed application form
written authorization of all owners on the certificate of title
Site Plan (2 copies) showing: (No larger than 11” x 17”) all uses, existing and proposed, on the property, including buildings and structures
dimensions and floor areas of all existing and proposed buildings and structures
setbacks of existing and proposed buildings and structures on the property to property lines and the natural boundaries of the sea, lakes, wetlands and watercourses
setbacks of existing or proposed septic fields to natural boundaries of the sea, lakes, wetlands and watercourses and to wells that are on or within 50 metres of the property
locations and dimensions of parking areas, including stalls, driveways
locations and dimensions of all legal easements, covenant areas, and utility corridors
north arrow, street names
Watershed, Aquifer & Stream Protection Development Permit Area – Fish and Riparian Protection Areas – Water Resource Protection Areas
Report from an environmental consultant
Detached Secondary Suite Development Permit:
2 copies of a landscape plan showing existing and proposed landscaping on the property.
2 copies of elevation drawing(s), noting all proposed alterations to building elevations
2 copies of proposed building materials and colour scheme
Village Revitalization and Village Periphery Development Permit Areas:
2 copies of a landscape plan showing existing and proposed landscaping on the property.
2 copies of a parking plan showing parking stalls, maneuvering aisles, accesses and exits
2 copies of elevation drawing(s), noting all proposed alterations to building elevations
2 copies of proposed building materials and colour scheme
2 copies of existing and proposed signs, incl. locations, dimensions, materials and colour scheme
Page 14 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 87 of 310
Schedule 3 – Development Variance Permit Applications
Land Title
recent certificate of title (within 90 days of receipt of application) for the subject property
all covenants, building schemes or easements registered on title
Application Form
completed application form
written authorization of all owners on certificate of title
Site Plan (2 copies, no larger than 11” x 17”) showing:
all uses, existing and proposed, on the property, including buildings and structures
existing bylaw requirements and proposed variance with accurate dimensions
dimensions and floor areas of existing and proposed buildings
height of existing and proposed buildings, additions, structures
setbacks for existing and proposed buildings to property lines, natural boundary of sea, lakes, wetlands and watercourses
setback of existing and proposed septic field to natural boundary of the sea, lakes and watercourses (where applicable)
parking areas including numbered parking stalls, aisle widths, stall dimensions (where applicable)
location of wells, drainage areas, ponds and topographic features
locations and dimensions of all legal easements, covenant areas and utility corridors
north arrow, street names
Elevation Plan (2 copies)
elevation plan of proposed buildings and structures requiring variance
Information from Strata Council/Neighbours
copy of resolution from strata council when proposal reviewed (if applicable)
copy of letters received from neighbours about proposed variance
Page 15 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 88 of 310
Schedule 4 – Temporary Use Permit Applications
Land Title:
recent certificate of title (within 90 days of receipt of application) for the subject property
all covenants, building schemes and easements registered on title
Application Form:
completed application form
written authorization of all owners on the certificate of title
Site Plan (2 copies, no larger than 11” x 17”) showing:
all uses, existing and proposed, on the property, including buildings and structures
dimensions and floor areas of existing and proposed buildings
height of existing and proposed buildings, additions, structures
setbacks for existing and proposed buildings to property lines, natural boundary of sea, lakes, wetlands and watercourses
setback of existing and proposed septic field to natural boundary of the sea, lakes and watercourses (where applicable)
parking areas including numbered parking stalls, aisle widths, stall dimensions (where applicable)
location of wells, drainage areas, ponds and topographic features
locations and dimensions of all legal easements, covenant areas and utility corridors
north arrow, street names
Page 16 Development Approval & Planning Procedures Bylaw Bylaw No.494, 2019 Page 89 of 310
To: Mayor and Council
From: Raj Hayre, Chief Financial Officer
Date: April 20, 2020 Meeting Date: May 11, 2020
Subject: Bowen Island Municipality 2020 Water System User Rate Bylaws
RECOMMENDATION THAT Bowen Island Municipality Blue Water Park Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 510, 2020, and Bowen Island Municipality Cove Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 511, 2020, and Bowen Island Municipality Hood Point Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 512, 2020, and Bowen Island Municipality Tunstall Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 513, 2020, and Bowen Island Municipality Bowen Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 514, 2020, and Bowen Island Municipality Eagle Cliff Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 515, 2020, and Bowen Island Municipality King Edward Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 516, 2020, be read a first, second and third time and be finally adopted.
PURPOSE: The above referenced Bylaws (Attachments 1 to 6) are required to update user rates for each water system to reflect the operating costs and contributions to capital replacement reserves as reflected in the 2020 five-year financial plan.
DISCUSSION: Pursuant to the Community Charter section 194 (1) Council may by bylaw, impose a fee payable in respect all or part of a service of the municipality .
Submitted by Raj Hayre Chief Financial Officer
Attachments: Attachment 1 Bowen Island Municipality Blue Water Park Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 510, 2020 Attachment 2 Bowen Island Municipality Cove Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 511, 2020 Attachment 3 Bowen Island Municipality Hood Point Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 512, 2020 Attachment 4 Bowen Island Municipality Tunstall Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 513, 2020 Attachment 5 Bowen Island Municipality Bowen Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 514, 2020 Attachment 6 Bowen Island Municipality Eagle Cliff Water System Users Bylaw No. 515 Attachment 6 Bowen Island Municipality King Edward Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 516
Bowen Island Municipality Water System User Rate Bylaws, 2020 Page 90 of 310
Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No. 510, 2020
A Bylaw to establish water rates for the Blue Water Park Water System
WHEREAS, the Bowen Island Municipality deems it necessary to revise annual user rates within the Blue Water Park Water System:
NOW THEREFORE, the Council of Bowen Island Municipality, in open meeting, enacts as follows:
1 Citation
1.1 This bylaw may be cited for all purposes as “Bowen Island Municipality Blue Water Park Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 510, 2020”.
2 Definitions
“Blue Water Park Water System” shall mean any infrastructure for the collection, transmission, treatment, storage, and distribution of water to and within the Blue Water Park Local Area Service.
“Connected Property” shall mean any property within the Blue Water Park Local Area Service that is connected to the Blue Water Park Water System.
“Non-connected Property” shall mean any property within the Blue Water Park Local Area Service where no connection to the Blue Water Park Water System exists.
“Average Monthly Use” shall mean water consumption as measured by the meter, divided by the actual number of days between the meter reading dates, multiplied by 30 days.
3 Rates
3.1 Base Rates
The following annual Base Rate charges are hereby levied on all properties in the Blue Water Park Local Area Service effective January 1, 2020:
Annual Base Property Description Rate Charge
a) all Connected Properties $800.00
b) all Non-Connected Properties $500.00
Page 1 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.510 2020 Page 91 of 310
3.2 Metered Monthly Charges
In addition to the annual Base Rate charge levied on all properties in the Blue Water Park Local Area Service, metered monthly charges are hereby levied on all parcels of land connected to the water system. Metered monthly charges will be imposed for average monthly use in excess of 7,200 IG per month, as measured by meter effective June 1st through September 30th each year.
The following metered charges for average monthly use in excess of 7,200 Imperial Gallons (IG) are hereby levied for the period of June 1st to September 30th inclusive.
Charge per IG for average monthly use Price per IG in $ between
7,201-9,000 $0.02 9,001-12,000 $0.10 12,001 and over $0.20
3.3 The charges set out in 3.1 and 3.2 and shall be due and payable no later than one month after the invoice date.
3.4 A $50.00 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to turn off the water to the property, and
3.5 A $50.00 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to turn on the water to the property
3.6 A $50 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to conduct an interim meter reading for the purposes of apportioning utility charges upon the transfer of a property.
4 Previous Bylaw Repeal
4.1 “Bowen Island Municipality Blue Water Park Water System User Rates Amendment Bylaw No.93, 2003” (Adopted July 28, 2003) is hereby repealed.
4.2 “Bowen Island Municipality Blue Water Park Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.115, 2004 (Adopted May 13, 2004) is hereby repealed.
4.3 “Bowen Island Municipality Blue Water Park Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.184, 2006 (Adopted May 12, 2006) is hereby repealed.
4.4 “Bowen Island Municipality Blue Water Park Water System Rates Bylaw No.389, 2015 (Adopted July 27, 2015) is hereby repealed.
Page 2 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.510 2020 Page 92 of 310 4.5 “Bowen Island Municipality Blue Water Park Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.409, 2016 (adopted May 9, 2016) is hereby repealed.
READ A FIRST TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A SECOND TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A THIRD TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
FINALLY ADOPTED this ____ day of ______, ______;
______Gary Ander Hope Dallas-Kerr Mayor Corporate Officer
Page 3 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.510 2020 Page 93 of 310
Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No. 511, 2020
A Bylaw to establish water rates for the Cove Bay Water System
WHEREAS, the Bowen Island Municipality deems it necessary to revise annual user rates within the Cove Bay Water Local Area Service:
THEREFORE the Council of Bowen Island Municipality, in open meeting, enacts as follows:
1 Citation
1.1 This bylaw may be cited for all purposes as “Bowen Island Municipality Cove Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 511, 2020”.
2 Definitions
“Business or Commercial Property” shall include, but is not restricted to, a store, financial institution, office, motel, restaurant, building, brewery, distillery, garage, marina, coffee shop or drive-in.
“Cove Bay Water System” shall mean any infrastructure for the collection, transmission, treatment, storage, and distribution of water to and within the Cove Bay Local Area Service.
3 Rates
3.1 Base and Metered Rates Annual base and metered rates as set out in Schedule A, attached to this bylaw are hereby levied on all properties connected to the water system within the Cove Bay Local Service Area.
3.2 Due and Payable Date The charges set out in Schedule A, attached to this bylaw are due and payable not later than one month after the invoice date.
3.3 A $50.00 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to turn off the water to the property, and
3.4 A $50.00 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to turn on the water to the property
3.5 A $50 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to conduct an interim meter reading for the purposes of apportioning utility charges upon the transfer of a property.
Page 1 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.511 2020 Page 94 of 310
4 Previous Bylaw Repeal
4.1 “Bowen Island Municipality Cove Bay Water System User Rates Amendment Bylaw No.408, 2016” (Adopted May 9, 2016) is repealed.
4.2 “Bowen Island Municipality Cove Bay Water System Rates Bylaw No.375, 2014”, (Adopted November 10, 2014) is repealed.
4.3 “Bowen Island Municipality Cove Bay Water System Rates Bylaw No.319, 2012” (Adopted April 26, 2012) is repealed.
4.4 “Bowen Island Municipality Cove Bay Water System Rates Bylaw No.285, 2010 (Adopted October 12, 2010) is repealed.
4.5 “Bowen Island Municipality Cove Bay Water System Rates Bylaw No.246, 2009 (Adopted May 11, 2009) is repealed.
4.6 “Bowen Island Municipality Cove Bay Water System Rates Bylaw No.203, 2007 (Adopted May 14, 2007) is repealed
READ A FIRST TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A SECOND TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A THIRD TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
FINALLY ADOPTED this ____ day of ______, ______;
______Gary Ander Hope Dallas-Kerr Mayor Corporate Officer
Page 2 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.511, 2020 Page 95 of 310
BOWEN ISLAND MUNICIPALITY Cove Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 511, 2020
SCHEDULE A – Cove Bay Water User Rates
The annual and metered rate charges in this schedule are hereby levied on all connected properties for each billing period* within the Cove Bay Local Area Service effective January 1, 2020:
Base Rate per billing Period Metered Rate
First 136 cubic Meters per billing For each cubic meter in excess of 136 period per billing period*
$260 $1.55
*There are three billing periods per calendar year. Each billing period is as follows:
January to April May to August September to December
Page 3 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.511, 2020 Page 96 of 310
Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No. 512, 2020
A Bylaw to establish water rates for the Hood Point Water System
WHEREAS, the Bowen Island Municipality deems it necessary to revise annual user rates within the Hood Point Water System:
THEREFORE, the Council of Bowen Island Municipality, in open meeting, enacts as follows:
1 Citation
1.1 This bylaw may be cited for all purposes as “Bowen Island Municipality Hood Point Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 513, 2020”.
2 Definitions
“Hood Point Water System” shall mean any infrastructure for the collection, transmission, treatment, storage, and distribution of water to and within the Hood Point Local Area Service.
“Connected Property” shall mean any dwelling or property within the Hood Point Local Area Service that is connected to or receives water from the Hood Point Water System.
“Non-connected Property” shall mean any property within the Hood Point Local Area Service where no connection to the Hood Point Water System exists.
3 Rates
3.1 Base Rates
The following annual charges are hereby levied on all connected and non-connected properties in the Hood Point Local Area Service effective January 1, 2020:
Annual Property Description Charge
a) all Connected Properties $780
b) all Non-Connected Properties $0
3.2 The charges under 3.1 shall be due and payable no later than one month after the invoice date.
Page 1 of 2 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.512 2020 Page 97 of 310 3.3 A $50.00 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to turn off the water to the property, and
3.4 A $50.00 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to turn on the water to the property
3.5 A $50 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to conduct an interim meter reading for the purposes of apportioning utility charges upon the transfer of a property.
4 Previous Bylaw Repeal
4.1 “Bowen Island Municipality Hood Point Water System User Rates Amendment Bylaw No.113, 2004” (Adopted May 13, 2004) is hereby repealed.
4.2 “Bowen Island Municipality Hood Point Water System Rates Bylaw No.228, 2008 (Adopted July 28, 2008) is hereby repealed.
4.3 “Bowen Island Municipality Hood Point Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.288, 2010 (Adopted October 12, 2010) is hereby repealed.
4.4 “Bowen Island Municipality Hood Point Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.306, 2011 (Adopted May 9, 2011) is hereby repealed.
4.5 “Bowen Island Municipality Hood Point Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.342, 2013 (adopted May 13, 2013) is hereby repealed.
READ A FIRST TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A SECOND TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A THIRD TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
FINALLY ADOPTED this ____ day of ______, ______;
______Gary Ander Hope Dallas-Kerr Mayor Corporate Officer
Page 2 of 2 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.512, 2020 Page 98 of 310
Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No. 513, 2020
A Bylaw to establish water rates for the Tunstall Bay Water System
WHEREAS, the Bowen Island Municipality deems it necessary to revise annual user rates within the Tunstall Bay Water System:
NOW THEREFORE, the Council of Bowen Island Municipality, in open meeting, enacts as follows:
1 Citation
1.1 This bylaw may be cited for all purposes as “Bowen Island Municipality Tunstall Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 513, 2020”.
2 Definitions
“Tunstall Bay Water System” shall mean any infrastructure for the collection, transmission, treatment, storage, and distribution of water to and within the Tunstall Bay Local Area Service.
“Connected Property” shall mean any property within the Tunstall Bay Local Area Service that is connected to the Tunstall Bay Water System.
“Non-connected Property” shall mean any property within the Tunstall Bay Local Area Service where no connection to the Tunstall Bay Water System exists.
“Quarterly Consumption” shall mean water consumption as measured by the meter, divided by the actual number of days between the meter reading dates, multiplied by 90 days.
3 Rates
3.1 Base Rates - The following Quarterly Base Rate charges are hereby levied on all properties in the Tunstall Bay Local Area Service effective January 1, 2020:
Quarterly Equivalent
Property Description Base Rate Annual
Charge Charge
a) all Connected Properties $203.75 $815.00
b) all Non-Connected Properties $125.00 $500.00
Page 1 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.513 2020 Page 99 of 310 3.2 Metered Quarterly Charges
a) In addition to the Quarterly Base Rate charges levied on all properties located within the boundary of the Tunstall Bay Water Local Area Service, metered quarterly charges are hereby levied on all parcels of land connected to the water system.
b) The following metered charges are hereby levied:
Quarterly Consumption Price per Imperial Thresholds Gallon (IG) Imperial Gallons (IG) $
First 4,500 IG $0.00245 4,501-9,000 IG $0.00441 9,001-13,500 IG $0.00613 13,501-18,000 IG $0.00784 18,000 and Over IG $0.00956
3.3 The charges under 3.1 and 3.2 shall be due and payable no later than one month after the invoice date. 3.4 A $50.00 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to turn off the water to the property, and
3.5 A $50.00 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to turn on the water to the property
3.6 A $50 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to conduct an interim meter reading for the purposes of apportioning utility charges upon the transfer of a property.
4 Previous Bylaw Repeal
4.1 “Bowen Island Municipality Tunstall Bay Water System User Rates Amendment Bylaw No.205, 2007” (Adopted May 14, 2007) is hereby repealed.
4.2 “Bowen Island Municipality Tunstall Bay Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.286, 2010 (Adopted October 12, 2010) is hereby repealed.
4.3 “Bowen Island Municipality Tunstall Bay Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.307, 2011 (Adopted May 9, 2011) is hereby repealed.
4.4 “Bowen Island Municipality Tunstall Bay Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.322, 2012 (Adopted April 26, 2012) is hereby repealed.
4.5 “Bowen Island Municipality Tunstall Bay Water System Rates Bylaw No.431, 2016 (adopted March 27, 2017) is hereby repealed.
Page 2 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.513 2020 Page 100 of 310
READ A FIRST TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A SECOND TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A THIRD TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
FINALLY ADOPTED this ____ day of ______, ______;
______Gary Ander Hope Dallas-Kerr Mayor Corporate Officer
Page 3 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.513 2020 Page 101 of 310
Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No. 514, 2020
A Bylaw to establish water rates for the Bowen Bay Water System
WHEREAS, the Bowen Island Municipality deems it necessary to revise annual user rates within the Bowen Bay Water System:
NOW THEREFORE, the Council of Bowen Island Municipality, in open meeting, enacts as follows:
1 Citation
1.1 This bylaw may be cited for all purposes as “Bowen Island Municipality Bowen Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 514, 2020”.
2 Definitions
“Bowen Bay Water System” shall mean any infrastructure for the collection, transmission, treatment, storage, and distribution of water to and within the Bowen Bay Local Area Service.
“Connected Property” shall mean any property within the Bowen Bay Local Area Service that is connected to the Bowen Bay Water System.
“Non-connected Property” shall mean any property within the Bowen Bay Local Area Service where no connection to the Bowen Bay Water System exists.
“Average Monthly Use” shall mean water consumption as measured by the meter, divided by the actual number of days between the meter reading dates, multiplied by 30 days.
3 Rates
3.1 Base Rates
The following annual Base Rate charges are hereby levied on all properties in the Bowen Bay Local Area Service effective January 1, 2020:
Annual Base Property Description Rate Charge
a) all Connected Properties $800.00
b) all Non-Connected Properties $500.00
Page 1 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.514 2020 Page 102 of 310
3.2 Metered Monthly Charges
In addition to the annual Base Rate charge levied on all properties in the Bowen Bay Local Area Service, metered monthly charges are hereby levied on all parcels of land connected to the water system. Metered monthly charges will be imposed for average daily consumption for water used each month, as measured by service connection metering, during the period of June 1st to September 30th inclusive, read on approximately the first or last day of each month.
The following metered charges for average monthly use in excess of 7,200 Imperial Gallons (IG) are hereby levied for the period of June 1st to September 30th inclusive.
Charge per IG for average monthly use Price per IG in $ between
7,201-9,000 $0.02 9,001-12,000 $0.10 12,001 and over $0.20
3.3 The charges under 3.1 and 3.2 shall be due and payable no later than one month after the invoice date.
3.4 A $50.00 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to turn off the water to the property, and
3.5 A $50.00 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to turn on the water to the property
3.6 A $50 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to conduct an interim meter reading for the purposes of apportioning utility charges upon the transfer of a property.
4 Previous Bylaw Repeal
4.1 “Bowen Island Municipality Bowen Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No.118, 2004” (Adopted May 13, 2004) is hereby repealed.
4.2 “Bowen Island Municipality Bowen Bay and King Edward Bay Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.147, 2005 (Adopted March 29, 2005) is hereby repealed.
4.3 “Bowen Island Municipality Bowen Bay Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.159, 2005 (Adopted November 14, 2005) is hereby repealed.
4.4 “Bowen Island Municipality Bowen Bay Water System Rates Bylaw No.183, 2006 (Adopted May 12, 2006) is hereby repealed. Page 2 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.514 2020 Page 103 of 310
4.5 “Bowen Island Municipality Bowen Bay Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.247, 2009 (adopted May 11, 2009) is hereby repealed.
4.6 “Bowen Island Municipality Bowen Bay Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.289, 2010 (adopted October 12, 2010) is hereby repealed.
4.7 “Bowen Island Municipality Bowen Bay Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.305, 2011 (adopted May 9, 2011) is hereby repealed.
4.8 “Bowen Island Municipality Bowen Bay Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.324, 2012 (adopted June 11, 2012) is hereby repealed.
READ A FIRST TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A SECOND TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A THIRD TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
FINALLY ADOPTED this ____ day of ______, ______;
______Gary Ander Hope Dallas-Kerr Mayor Corporate Officer
Page 3 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.514 2020 Page 104 of 310
Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No. 515, 2020
A Bylaw to establish water rates for the Eagle Cliff Water System
WHEREAS, the Bowen Island Municipality deems it necessary to revise annual user rates within the Eagle Cliff Water System:
NOW THEREFORE, the Council of Bowen Island Municipality, in open meeting, enacts as follows:
1 Citation
1.1 This bylaw may be cited for all purposes as “Bowen Island Municipality Eagle Cliff Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 515, 2020”.
2 Definitions
“Eagle Cliff Water System” shall mean any infrastructure for the collection, transmission, treatment, storage, and distribution of water to and within the Eagle Cliff Local Area Service.
3 Rates
3.1 Metered Rates
The annual charge is hereby levied on all properties in the Eagle Cliff Local Area service effective January 1, 2020, based on the average daily consumption for water used as measured by meter, during the period of June 1 to September 30 inclusive.
Annual Property Description Charge
a) For 0 to 50 gallons per day $525
b) From 51 to 100 gallons per day $575
c) From 101 to 150 gallons per day $625
d) From 151 to 175 gallons per day $700
e) From 176 to 200 gallons per day $775
f) From 201 to 225 gallons per day $850
g) For each additional 1 gallon over 225 gallons $2.60
Page 1 of 2 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.515, 2020 Page 105 of 310 3.2 The charges under 3.1 shall be due and payable no later than one month after the invoice date.
3.3 A $50.00 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to turn off the water to the property, and
3.4 A $50.00 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to turn on the water to the property
3.5 A $50 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to conduct an interim meter reading for the purposes of apportioning utility charges upon the transfer of a property.
4 Previous Bylaw Repeal
4.1 “Bowen Island Municipality Eagle Cliff Water System User Rates Bylaw No.94, 2003” (Adopted July 28, 2003) is hereby repealed.
4.2 “Bowen Island Municipality Eagle Cliff Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.185, 2006 (Adopted May 12, 2006) is hereby repealed.
4.3 “Bowen Island Municipality Eagle Cliff Water System Rates Bylaw No.229, 2008 (Adopted July 28, 2008) is hereby repealed.
4.4 “Bowen Island Municipality Eagle Cliff Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.341, 2013 (Adopted May 13, 2013) is hereby repealed.
READ A FIRST TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A SECOND TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A THIRD TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
FINALLY ADOPTED this ____ day of ______, ______;
______Gary Ander Hope Dallas-Kerr Mayor Corporate Officer
Page 2 of 2 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.515, 2020 Page 106 of 310
Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No. 516, 2020
A Bylaw to establish water rates for the King Edward Bay Water System
WHEREAS, the Bowen Island Municipality deems it necessary to revise annual user rates within the King Edward Bay Water System:
NOW THEREFORE, the Council of Bowen Island Municipality, in open meeting, enacts as follows:
1 Citation
1.1 This bylaw may be cited for all purposes as “Bowen Island Municipality King Edward Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No. 516, 2020”.
2 Definitions
“King Edward Bay Water System” shall mean any infrastructure for the collection, transmission, treatment, storage, and distribution of water to and within the King Edward Bay Local Area Service.
“Connected Property” shall mean any property within the King Edward Bay Local Area Service that is connected to the King Edward Bay Water System.
“Non-connected Property” shall mean any property within the King Edward Bay Local Area Service where no connection to the Municipal water system exists.
“Average Monthly Use” shall mean water consumption as measured by the meter, divided by the actual number of days between the meter reading dates, multiplied by 30 days.
3 Rates
3.1 Base Rates
The following annual Base Rate charges are hereby levied on all properties in the King Edward Bay Local Area Service effective January 1, 2020:
Annual Base Property Description Rate Charge
a) all Connected Properties $800.00
b) all Non-Connected Properties $500.00
Page 1 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.516 2020 Page 107 of 310
3.2 Metered Monthly Charges
In addition to the annual Base Rate charge levied on all properties in the King Edward Bay Local Area Service, metered monthly charges are hereby levied on all parcels of land connected to the water system. Metered monthly charges will be imposed for average monthly use in excess of 7,200 IG per month, as measured by meter effective June 1st through September 30th each year.
The following metered charges for average monthly use in excess of 7,200 Imperial Gallons (IG) are hereby levied for the period of June 1st through September 30th inclusive.
Charge per IG for average monthly use Price per IG in $ between
7,201-9,000 $0.02 9,001-12,000 $0.10 12,001 and over $0.20
3.3 The aforesaid charges shall be due and payable no later than one month after the invoice date.
3.4 A $50.00 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to turn off the water to the property, and
3.5 A $50.00 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to turn on the water to the property
3.6 A $50 fee will be charged for each request made by the property owner or owner’s agent to conduct an interim meter reading for the purposes of apportioning utility charges upon the transfer of a property.
4 Previous Bylaw Repeal
4.1 “Bowen Island Municipality King Edward Bay Water System User Rates Bylaw No.388, 2015” (Adopted July 27, 2015) is hereby repealed.
4.2 “Bowen Island Municipality King Edward Bay Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.410, 2016 (Adopted April 25, 2016) is hereby repealed.
4.3 “Bowen Island Municipality King Edward Bay Water System Rates Amendment Bylaw No.442, 2017 (Adopted May 8, 2017) is hereby repealed.
Page 2 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.516 2020 Page 108 of 310
READ A FIRST TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A SECOND TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A THIRD TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
FINALLY ADOPTED this ____ day of ______, ______;
______Gary Ander Hope Dallas-Kerr Mayor Corporate Officer
Page 3 of 3 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.516 2020 Page 109 of 310
To: Mayor Ander and Council
From: Judy McLeod, Planning Consultant
Date: May 4, 2020 Meeting Date: May 11, 2020
Subject: DVP Application - New Road “N” in the Grafton Lake Phase 1 Subdivision John Reid for Island Garden Estates and Mount Gardner Holdings Ltd Block 5 N ½ Plan VAP2230 Group NWD, Block 5, Plan VAP2230 Part S ½ DL1347 Group 1 NWD and Lot A Block 1 Plan VAP2230 DL1347 Group 1 NWD File No. DVP-02-2020 PID: 010-715-452, 013-966-391 and 008-637-245
RECOMMENDATION That Council issue Development Variance Permit DVP-02-2020 for the variances to Table C-15 and Schedule C5 section 9.1 of Bowen Island Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw No. 447, 2017 for regulations relating to the construction of new Road “N” on properties legally described as: North ½ Block 5 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230, PID 010-715-452; South ½ of Block 5 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230 PID 013-966-391; and Lot A Block 1 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230 PID 008-637-245.
PURPOSE The purpose of this report is to provide results of public notice for application DVP-02-2020, and to present the permit for Council’s consideration.
BACKGROUND Details of this application are set out in the staff report dated March 17, 2020 (see Attachment 2). At its April 14, 2020 meeting, Council passed a resolution authorizing staff to provide notice to all properties within 100 metres of the subject properties, advising that Council would be considering issuance of DVP-02-2020 at the May 11, 2020 Council meeting. Notice advised that written comments regarding the proposal could be submitted to the Planning Department for Council’s consideration up until May 11, 2020.
Notice was mailed to all property owners within 100 metres of the property with information that the draft Development Variance Permit could be reviewed on the Municipal website and that staff could be contacted directly with any questions by phone or email. Notice was also provided on the Island Page. The notice advised of the new procedures and instructions for attending Council via the Zoom link.
ALTERNATIVES TO VARIANCE The applicant could be required to build Road “N” to the full lane widths as set out in Bowen Island Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw No. 447, 2017. This would require increased excavation and result in increased costs and impact on adjacent environmentally sensitive areas. 1 Page 110 of 310
RESPONSES TO THE NOTICE Two email responses have been received to date. Both responses expressed concern with the potential amount of development around Grafton Lake and in Bowen Island in general, and concern for impact on the Island’s infrastructure. The responses did not have concerns with the specifics of this Development Variance Permit application. Staff has been in touch with both respondents to provide information on the context of the application.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS Building Road “N” to full municipal standards and the installation of underground hydro service would increase construction costs. Discussion between the applicant and the municipality regarding services to the Water Treatment Plant are ongoing.
COMMUNICATION STRATEGY Notice of Council’s decision will be included in the Council Highlights and in Council minutes of the meeting.
CONCLUSION The full 15 metre road allowance as required by the Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw will be dedicated through the subdivision approval. The requested variance to reduce the constructed land and shoulder widths and to provide for overhead hydro service have been reviewed by the Engineering consultant who has advised that the road design complies with good engineering practice and is safe for the intended use. The Deputy Fire Chief has advised he has no concerns. The reduction in lane width will require less excavation and reduce impact to the adjacent environmentally sensitive area. In response to concern regarding potential power outages due to overhead lines service the Water Treatment Plant, the municipal engineer advises that the Plant will be equipped with backup generators.
ALTERNATIVES Council has the following options available: 1. That Council issue Development Variance Permit DVP-02-2020 as drafted; 2. That Council not issue Development Variance Permit DVP-02-2020 for reasons stated in a resolution of Council; 3. Other options as determined by Council.
Attachments and References: Attachment 1 – Draft Development Variance Permit DVP-02-2020 Attachment 2 – Introduction Council Report DVP 02-2020 dated March 17, 2020 Attachment 3 - Written submissions
SUBMITTED BY: ______Judy McLeod Planning Consultant
REVIEWED/APPROVED BY: ______Dennis Back Interim Chief Administrative Officer
Consideration Report DVP 02-2020 May 11, 2020 Page 111 of 310
DEVELOPMENT VARIANCE PERMIT
Permit No. DVP-02-2020 Folio No. 321.03079.000 321.03078.000 321.03062.000 Issued to: John Reid on behalf of Island Garden Estates and Mount Gardner Holdings Ltd.
Site Addresses: 932 Conolly Road The lands affected by and subject to this permit are shown on Schedule "A", Location Map, attached hereto, which forms an integral part of this permit, and are legally described as: North ½ of Block 5 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230 PID 010-715-452 South ½ of Block 5 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230 PID 013-966-391 Lot A Block 1 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230 PID 008-637-245
LIST OF ATTACHMENTS
Schedule “A”: Location Map Schedule “B”: Site Plan Appendix I: Notice of Permit
AUTHORITY TO ISSUE This Development Variance Permit is issued pursuant to Section 498 of the Local Government Act.
BYLAWS SUPPLEMENTED OR VARIED
“Bowen Island Municipal Land Use Bylaw No. 477, 2017” is varied as follows:
1. The requirements of Table C-15 of Bylaw 477, 2017 are varied to permit the section of Road “N” from Grafton Road to its intersection with Road “O” to have a standard lane width of 2.5 metres, with a shoulder width to a minimum of 1.0 metre consistent with a Service roadway, rather than the 3.0 metre lane width and 1.0 to 2.0 metre shoulder width required for a Residential roadway;
2. The requirements of Table C-15 of Bylaw 477, 2017 are varied to permit the section of Road “N” from its intersection with Road “O” to its terminus at the Water Treatment Plant to be built to a Byway standard having a single lane 4.5 metres wide and a minimum shoulder width to a minimum of 0.75 metres, rather than the 3.0 metre lane width and 1.0 to 2.0 metre shoulder width required for a Residential roadway; and
Page 112 of 310 Development Variance Permit DVP 02-2020 page 2
3. Schedule C5 – Highway Streets and Standards Section 9.1 of Bylaw 477, 2017 stating that all municipal services shall be located beneath the paved roadway and other utilities beneath the shoulders, is varied to provide for an overhead hydro line along Road “N” from Grafton Road to the Cove Bay Water Treatment Plant.
SPECIAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS
1. No variances other than those specifically set out in this permit are implied or to be construed.
2. If a holder of this permit does not commence the construction with respect to which the Permit was issued within two (2) years after the date of the permit, this permit shall lapse.
3. Development shall be undertaken only on the land to which this permit is issued in strict accordance with the Site Plan attached hereto as Schedule “B”.
4. All new construction shall be substantially in compliance with Schedule “B”.
GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS
1. This Development Variance Permit is issued pursuant to Section 498 of the Local Government Act.
2. This Development Variance Permit shall not vary the permitted uses or densities of land use in the applicable zoning bylaw nor a flood plain specification designated under Section 524(2) of the Local Government Act.
3. Nothing in this permit shall in any way relieve the developer’s obligation to ensure that the development proposal complies in every way with the statutes, regulations, requirements, covenants, easements, rights-of-way, and licenses applicable to the undertaking.
4. Nothing in this permit shall in any way relieve the developer’s obligation to comply with all regulations for construction of structures (including the BC Building Code, BC Plumbing Code and the BC Fire Code) and requirements regarding the provision of on-site services pursuant to the Public Health Act, the Fire Services Act, the Safety Standards Act, and any other provincial statutes.
SECURITY DEPOSIT
1. As a condition of the issuance of this Permit, and pursuant to Section 502 of the Local Government Act, the Municipality is holding the security set out below to ensure that development is carried out in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Permit.
2. Should the holder of this permit:
a) fail to complete the works required to satisfy the conditions contained herein, and/or
Page 113 of 310 Development Variance Permit DVP 02-2020 page 3
b) contravene a condition of the permit in such a way as to create an unsafe condition,
3. The Municipality may undertake and complete the works required to satisfy the landscaping conditions, or carry out any construction required to correct an unsafe condition at the cost of the holder of the permit and may apply the security in payment of the costs of the works, with any excess to be returned to the holder of the permit.
4. Security Posted: (a) an irrevocable letter of credit in the amount of: $ N/A . (b) the deposit of the following specified security: $ N/A .
Note: Bowen Island Municipality shall file a notice of this permit in the Land Title Office stating that the land described in the notice is subject to Development Variance Permit Number DVP 02-2020. The notice shall take the form of Appendix I attached hereto. ______
AUTHORIZING RESOLUTION PASSED BY THE COUNCIL OF BOWEN ISLAND MUNICIPALITY ON THE ## DAY OF month, year.
______Chief Administrative Officer
THIS IS NOT A BUILDING PERMIT
Page 114 of 310 Development Variance Permit DVP 02-2020 page 4
SCHEDULE "A" Location Map
Page 115 of 310 Development Variance Permit DVP 02-2020 page 5
SCHEDULE "B" Site Plan
Page 116 of 310 Development Variance Permit DVP 02-2020 page 6
Page 117 of 310
To: Mayor Ander and Council
From: Judy McLeod, Planning Consultant
Date: March 17, 2020 Meeting Date: April 14, 2020
Subject: DVP Application - New Road “N” in the Grafton Lake Phase 1 Subdivision John Reid for Island Garden Estates and Mount Gardner Holdings Ltd Block 5 N ½ Plan VAP2230 Group NWD, Block 5, Plan VAP2230 Part S ½ DL1347 Group 1 NWD and Lot A Block 1 Plan VAP2230 DL1347 Group 1 NWD File No. DVP-02-2020 PID: 010-715-452, 013-966-391 and 008-637-245
RECOMMENDATION That notice be given that Council will be considering the issuance of Development Variance Permit DVP-02-2020 for variances to Table C-15 and Schedule C5 section 9.1 of Bowen Island Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw No. 447, 2017 for regulations relating to the construction of new Road “N” on properties legally described as: North ½ Block 5 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230, PID 010- 715-452; South ½ of Block 5 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230 PID 013-966-391; and Lot A Block 1 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230 PID 008-637-245 at the May 11, 2020 meeting of Council.
That Council authorize staff to give notice for the consideration of issuance of Development Variance Permit DVP-02-2020 in accordance with Section 499 of the Local Government Act to all properties within 100 metres of the legal boundary of the properties legally described as North ½ Block 5 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230, PID 010-715-452, South ½ of Block 5 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230 PID 013-966-391 and Lot A Block 1 District Lot 1347 Plan 2230 PID 008-637-245.
PURPOSE The purpose of this report is to provide details regarding a Development Variance Permit application to vary the requirements of the Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw No. 477, 2017 for the lane and shoulder width of a new road to be constructed as part of the first phase of the Grafton Lake subdivision, and for the construction of an overhead hydro line along this road.
BACKGROUND The first phase of the Grafton Lake subdivision, subdivision application file SUB 01-2019, has been submitted for review. The first phase of development would receive access from a newly constructed ‘Road “N” as shown on Figure 1 below. This new Road “N” will provide access to: • the Rennison Nature Reserve; • Proposed Lot 1 being created for the Cove Bay Water Treatment Plan; • Proposed Lot 2 for an existing detached dwelling; • Proposed Lot 3, zoned to provide for 10 affordable duplex dwellings; and • Proposed Lot 4 for two strata lots for dwellings with direct access to Road “N” and new strata Roads “O” and “Q” to serve 9 additional strata lots for detached dwellings. Page 118 of 310
The applicant has requested reductions in the road width to reduce lane and shoulder widths for Road “N” to reduce encroachment on Terminal Creek and Grafton Lake, and a variance to the requirement for underground hydro lines to reduce development costs and provide development in keeping with its rural setting.
Figure 1 – Subdivision Sketch Plan Showing Road “N”
DVP 02-2020 - Grafton Lake Road Standards Introduction Report April 14, 2020 Page 119 of 310 DETAILS OF APPLICATION Owner/Applicant: John Reid on behalf of Island Garden Estates and Mount Gardner Holdings Ltd.
Subject Property: 932 Conolly Road
OCP Designation: CDA-3 – Grafton Lake Comprehensive Development Area which provides for the range of uses proposed.
Zoning: Comprehensive Development 21 – CD 21 – Grafton Lake which would permit a maximum of 22 detached and attached dwellings as well as the Water Treatment Plant.
DPA: The proposed development area is outside of the Watershed Development Permit Area. A Development Permit DP-25-2017 has been issued to permit initial land clearing, trail, boardwalk and bridge construction, site preparations, the creation of retention ponds and the installation of septic fields, water lines and other services, subject to the approval of the proposed work by a qualified environmental professional.
PROPOSED VARIANCE
This application is to:
1. Vary the requirements of Table C-15 of Bylaw 477, 2017 to permit the section of Road “N” from Grafton Road to its intersection with Road “O” to have a standard lane width of 2.5 metres, with a shoulder width of 1.0 to 1.5 metres consistent with a Service roadway, rather than the 3.0 metre lane width and 1.0 to 2.0 metre shoulder width required for a Residential roadway;
2. Vary the requirements of Table C-15 of Bylaw 477, 2017 to permit the section of Road “N” from its intersection with Road “O” to its terminus at the Water Treatment Plant to be built to a Byway standard having a single lane 4.5 metres wide and a minimum shoulder width of 0.75 metres, rather than the 3.0 metre lane width and 1.0 to 2.0 metre shoulder width required for a Residential roadway;
3. Vary the provisions of Schedule C5 – Highway and Street Standards Section 9.1 of the Bylaw to provide for an overhead power line along Road “N” whereas the bylaw states, “In general, municipal services shall be located beneath the paved roadway and other utilities beneath the shoulders”.
Cross sections of the standards proposed for these roads are included as in the proposed Development Variance Permit included as Attachment 2 to this report.
DVP 02-2020 - Grafton Lake Road Standards Introduction Report April 14, 2020 Page 120 of 310 The proposed variance has been referred to internal departments and to BC Hydro. No concerns have been raised as a result of this referral. • BC Hydro advises that it has no issues with the proposed subdivision and will build the infrastructure along the proposed Road “N”. • The Deputy Fire Chief has advised that he has no concerns at this time. • The Chief Building official has provided a list of requirements under the BC Building Code for Part 3 Buildings which would include the Water Treatment Plan. The requirements have been reviewed by the Engineering consultant for the applicant, who advises that the road design complies with good engineering practice, meets the building code requirements and is safe for the intended uses.
ALTERNATIVES TO VARIANCE The alternative would be that the applicant would be required to build all or portions of the roadways to the standards as set out in the Subdivision and Development Standards Bylaw. This would add to the cost of construction of the road and the costs associated with infrastructure of the Cove Bay Water Treatment Plant. It would also increase the impact on adjacent sensitive areas.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS There has been an agreement between the applicant and Bowen Island Municipality that the cost of the construction of the portion of Road “N” between its intersection with Road “O” and the Water Treatment Plan would be shared between the applicant and the municipality. As well, since an upgraded standard in the normal residential power service is required for the Water Treatment Plant, the municipality has agreed to share the cost of the installation of the power service from Road “O” to the Water Treatment Plan. Construction of the road and the installation of underground hydro service would have a financial impact on the municipality’s ability to construct the Water Treatment Plant.
COMMUNICATION STRATEGY Notice of the proposed variance will be mailed to neighbours within 100 metres of the property. Notice will also be posted on the municipal website. Members of the public will be able to provide written comment to Council regarding this application or appear before Council at the May 11, 2020 meeting.
ECOLOGICAL/ENVIRONMENTAL/CLIMATE IMPLICATIONS Reduction in the road width will minimize any encroachment on Terminal Creek and will reduce encroachment to Grafton Lake as compared to construction to the full Residential Road standards as set out in the bylaw.
Detailed studies of the proposed subdivision have included a Species at Risk Report by RavenCraig Biological Consulting and an Environmental Overview report by Whitehead Environmental Consultants, which confirm minimizing the development footprint to minimize disturbance to the environment and restricting development outside of no-disturbance areas and use of former roadbeds.
DVP 02-2020 - Grafton Lake Road Standards Introduction Report April 14, 2020 Page 121 of 310 ALTERNATIVES Council has the following options available: 1. That Council authorize staff to give notice that Development Variance Permit application DVP- 02-2020 will be considered by Council on May 11, 2020; 2. That Council refer the application back to staff for further information; 3. Other options as determined by Council.
Attachments and References: Attachment 1 – Draft Development Variance Permit DVP-02-2020 Attachment 2 – Draft notice to neighbours
Submitted by: Judy McLeod
REVIEWED BY:
CAO ☐ Bylaw Services ☒ Finance ☐ Fire & Emergency ☒ Parks & Environment ☐ Building & Planning ☒ Public Library ☐ Public Works ☒ Recreation & Community Services ☐
DVP 02-2020 - Grafton Lake Road Standards Introduction Report April 14, 2020 Page 122 of 310 Written Submissions DVP 02-2020
I am very worried with such a big development that surrounds our cove bay water supply. Bad enough with so many folks,dogs etc swimming in the lake the last few years and nothing being
done about it.. Now we may have so many more people living so close to the lake.I see it has all been cleared for development so do we really have any say.I hope our mayor and council will think long and hard at allowing building permits. Thank you
Steph Boggan
Bowen resident
My concern, not only with this potential development, but other building in general, is that Bowen does not have the infrastructure or resources to support more development, especially our water supply. I am also concerned about that fact that with more people moving to Bowen and needing to commute to town, that the ferry overload will increase substantially. It already is very busy during commuter times with the residents we have now. And summer is a pain for people who actually live here with tourists coming over, using our resources and creating overloads on the ferry too.
The majority of islanders don’t want the development you are permitting. Affordable housing yes, but that is not what is happening. The Muni seems to be operating like Bowen is the mainland with unlimited resources and can accommodate more density. It can’t. As for the businesses on Bowen, if they are not successful enough without tourists or more people moving here, then maybe their business is just not a viable one for the Island. The Muni is not responsible for the success of a business. You are responsible to the residents that live here.
With the limited resources Bowen has, I am concerned that the Muni is allowing the Island to be overdeveloped. I believe part of the reason people are fed up with politicians and elected officials are because you have stopped listening to us. That’s one reason why Trump got elected, and our own little
Page 123 of 310 Island was so dissatisfied with the last council that we voted in practically all newbees. And now this mayor and council are acting the same as the last one, not listening to what the majority of the people want, and permitting the overdevelopment of a small Island which it does not have the necessary resources for. This just makes no sense to me, and is concerning.
Linda Jacobson
Page 124 of 310
To: Mayor Ander and Council
From: Raj Hayre, Chief Financial Officer
Date: May 5, 2020 Meeting Date: May 11, 2020
Subject: Alternative Tax Collection Bylaw No. 520, 2020
RECOMMENDATION That Bylaw No.520, 2020 cited as “Bowen Island Municipality Alternative Tax Collection Bylaw No.520, 2020” be read a first, second and third time and be finally adopted.
PURPOSE The purpose of this report is to allow Council to consider Alternative Tax Collection Bylaw No.520, 2020, which may provide relief to taxpayers facing cash flow difficulty due to the unique circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic.
BACKGROUND & ANALYSIS In response to the unprecedented economic disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, to support Class 1 residential taxpayers experiencing cash flow issues, staff recommend reducing the amount of penalty imposed on current year taxes unpaid by the due date from 5% to 2%. This reduced penalty will apply to taxes that remain unpaid after July 2, but are paid on or before August 31.
If taxes, or any portion thereof remain unpaid after August 31, a further penalty of 8% will be imposed on the amount of the current year’s taxes remaining unpaid.
In the absence of an Alternative Tax Collection bylaw the municipality is required to follow the “default municipal tax scheme” as prescribed under the Community Charter. Under the default municipal tax scheme property taxes are due on July 2 of each year. Any unpaid tax, including an unclaimed home owner grant is subject to penalty after July 2. The penalty rate is established in the Municipal Tax Regulation and is currently 10 percent.
A municipality may opt for an alternative tax collection scheme by bylaw (under S.235 of the Community Charter) which allows for a change to the due date and/or penalty.
Page 1 of 2 Alternative Tax Collection Bylaw No. 520, 2020 May 11, 2020 Page 125 of 310
FINANCIAL/ RESOURCE/MAINTENANCE IMPLICATIONS The penalty structure proposed is intended to achieve a balance between collecting taxation revenue to ensure the municipality is able to meet financial obligations and to provide relief to property taxpayers who require it. This bylaw is not anticipated to have a material financial impact.
COMMUNICATION STRATEGY Adoption of this bylaw will be made public through the Municipality’s communications distribution channels. It will remain on the website as a publicly available report. Information will also be included in both the tax notice and the 2020 Property Tax Information insert.
CONCLUSION In response to the unprecedented economic disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, adoption of this bylaw will allow the municipality to provide relief to taxpayers by reducing the amount of penalty imposed on taxes unpaid by the July 2 due date. Both the tax due date and penalty structure recommended are similar to those being adopted by other municipalities under the unusual COVID-19 pandemic circumstances..
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment 1 – Alternative Tax Collection Bylaw No. 520, 2020
Submitted by: Raj Hayre, Chief Financial Officer
REVIEWED BY:
CAO ☒ Communications ☒ Finance ☒
Page 2 of 2 Name of Report Council meeting date Page 126 of 310
Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No. 520, 2020
A Bylaw to establish an alternative tax collection scheme that clearly states when penalties are applied to unpaid taxes.
WHEREAS, Local governments under section 235 of the Community Charter may establish penalties and interest to be applied in relation to payments made after the tax due date;
THEREFORE
1. Citation
1.1 This bylaw may be cited for all purposes as “Bowen Island Municipality Alternative Tax Collection Bylaw 520, 2020”.
2. Definitions
2.1 “Collector” means the municipal officer assigned the responsibility as collector of taxes for the municipality.
3. Alternative Municipal Collection Scheme
3.1 Any taxes or rates owed to the Bowen Island Municipality are due on or before July, 2nd of each calendar year.
4. Penalties
4.1 If any portion of property taxes for the current taxation year for a parcel of land and its improvements on the assessment roll remain unpaid after July 2 of the year those taxes are levied, the Collector will add to the said unpaid property taxes a penalty of 2% on the portion that remains unpaid.
4.1 If any portion of property taxes for the current taxation year for a parcel of land and its improvements on the assessment roll remain unpaid after August 31 of the year those taxes are levied, in addition to the penalty added in section 4.1 the Collector will add to the said unpaid property taxes an additional penalty of 8% on the portion that remains unpaid.
5. Repeal
5.1 Bylaw No.373, 2014, adopted November 10, 2014 is hereby repealed.
5.2 This bylaw is automatically repealed as of January 1, 2021.
Page 1 of 2 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.520, 2020 Page 127 of 310
READ A FIRST TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A SECOND TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
READ A THIRD TIME this ____ day of ______, ______;
FINALLY ADOPTED this ____ day of ______, ______;
______Gary Ander Hope Dallas-Kerr Mayor Corporate Officer
Page 2 of 2 Bowen Island Municipality Bylaw No.520, 2020 Page 128 of 310
To: Mayor Ander and Council
From: Jennifer McGowan, Emergency Program Coordinator
Date: May 1, 2020 Meeting Date: May 11, 2020
Subject: Emergency Program Update (May 2019- April 2020)
RECOMMENDATION That Council receive for information the Emergency Program Update (May 2019 – April 2020) Report as included in the May 11, 2020 Regular Council agenda.
PURPOSE To provide Mayor and Council with a report of past, ongoing and future work of the Emergency Program Coordinator and status of Emergency Program projects. This is the second of the Emergency Program Coordinator’s annual reports to Council.
BACKGROUND The Emergency Program Coordinator (EPC) is a 15 hour per week position: until March, the EPC averaged approximately 25 hours weekly, with additional hours supplemented through the 2018 budget (partial amounts are being carried forward) and Union of BC Municipalities grants.
Currently, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and BIM EOC activation, the EPC is averaging approximately 50 hours weekly, and hours beyond 15 weekly are funded by the Province through Emergency Management British Columbia as part of BIM’s COVID-19 response costs.
The EPC is responsible for the overall management and coordination of emergency preparedness, response and recovery and for developing and maintaining an emergency program for the municipality. Responsibilities include:
• Being accountable to the Emergency Program Executive Committee • Providing leadership and administration for the emergency program • Coordinating sub-committees and project-specific work groups, including chairing the Emergency Program Management Committee • Developing a Strategic Plan, action plans and budget • Maintaining all emergency plans and documentation • Providing an annual status report on the level of preparedness • Coordinating training and exercise programs
Page 1 of 4 Emergency Program Update (May 2019- April 2020) May 11, 2020 Page 129 of 310 • Coordinating with other governments, non-government agencies, First Nations and private sector • Establishing and maintaining an Emergency Operations Centre • Organizing, promoting and maintaining regular awareness/education programs for staff, Emergency Support Services, local businesses, volunteers and the public • Establishing, coordinating and supporting volunteer programs • Creating content for the website and other communication materials related to the emergency program
The EPC reports to the Chief Administrative Officer and receives substantial support for public communications from the Communications Coordinator.
Routine tasks AED program support BowENS maintenance and administration Coordinate/ host/ facilitate training for staff, council and volunteers (e.g. marine spill response, rapid damage assessment, crisis communications, etc.) Emergency Communications/ Amateur Radio Team support Emergency Support Services program development and support, including resource acquisition EOC team and staff training and development EPEC administration and reporting External collaboration/ participation (e.g. Regional Emergency Planning Committee, EMBC exercises, etc.) Maintain and update Emergency Program webpages NERP team support Participation on various BIM committees (e.g. JHSC, FHFSC) Public Presentations/ Community Events/ Outreach/ Emergency Management support Note that many of these regular activities are currently on hold or partially suspended.
Changes since last year include: • AED program now run by an Emergency Program volunteer coordinator • FireSmart program administration taken over by Bowen Island Fire Rescue • Neighborhood Emergency Response Program is now active and engaged
Seasonal projects BowENS test (October) Annual Emergency Preparedness Week (May) Annual ShakeOut (October) Annual
Past, Recent and Ongoing - Documents Tsunami Hazard and Risk Assessment Completed 2019 ‘Building in Resilience’ materials Completed 2019 Update Emergency Management Plan Final Draft under review Update Crisis Communications Plan Ongoing, currently in draft form
Page 2 of 4 Emergency Program Update (May 2019- April 2020) May 11, 2020 Page 130 of 310 Past, Recent and Ongoing - Documents Develop Disaster Debris Management Plan Final Draft under review Business Continuity Planning for BIM Currently underway Develop Evacuation Plan Anticipated June 2020 Develop Pandemic Plan Currently underway Develop Recovery Plan for COVID 19 event Anticipated
Past, Recent and Ongoing – Projects Night Landing reinstatement/ Heliport Completed Grants: application, program implementation Completed, ongoing, and anticipated: see and reporting for multiple grants below Emergency Support Services Operational Completed Nov 2019 Exercise ‘Smokey Isle’ Multi Agency Table-Top Evacuation Exercise Completed Feb 2020
New and Upcoming Projects Evacuation planning phase II Awaiting UBCM funding information ESS Project including modernization tools Awaiting UBCM funding decision EOC Project including earthquake exercise Awaiting UBCM funding decision Post-Disaster Building Assessment Plan Deferred Update Community Wildfire Protection Plan Anticipate 2021
FINANCIAL/ RESOURCE/MAINTENANCE IMPLICATIONS There are no financial implications of this report. The Emergency Program operations budget is $17,500 annually which includes $5,500 per year for the BowENS system.
Since Emergency Program inception, additional funding has been received through UBCM grants, as outlined below. Year Funding Stream Amount Status 2017 Emergency Social Services $ 23,842 Completed 2018 Emergency Operations Centres $ 25,000 Completed 2018 FireSmart (SWPI) $ 8,538 Completed 2019 Emergency Social Services $ 25,000 Completed 2019 Evacuation Route Planning $ 25,000 Final Report Due 2019 Emergency Operations Centre $ 25,000 Completed 2019 FireSmart (CRI) $ 22,167 Completed 2020 FireSmart (CRI) $ 25,000 In Progress 2020 Emergency Social Services $ 25,000 Application submitted 2020 Emergency Operations Centres $ 25,000 Application submitted 2020 Evacuation Route Planning Postponed 2020 CWPP Update (CRI) Pending Total $ 229,547
Submitted by: Jennifer McGowan, Emergency Program Coordinator
Page 3 of 4 Emergency Program Update (May 2019- April 2020) May 11, 2020 Page 131 of 310
REVIEWED BY:
CAO ☒ Communications ☒ Finance ☒ Fire & Emergency ☒
Page 4 of 4 Emergency Program Update (May 2019- April 2020) May 11, 2020 Page 132 of 310
To: Mayor Ander and Council
From: Daniel Martin, Manager of Planning and Development
Date: April 29, 2020 Meeting Date: May 11, 2020
Subject: Temporary Use Permit Amendment to the Official Community Plan
RECOMMENDATION That Council refer the staff report dated May 1, 2020 on a potential amendment to the Official Community Plan to designate areas where temporary use permits are allowed to the Islands Trust and the Advisory Planning Commission.
PURPOSE To introduce Council background information on a potential amendment to the Official Community Plan (OCP) to designate areas where temporary uses may be allowed.
BACKGROUND Through the processing of a Temporary Use Permit application, municipal staff became aware that Bowen Island’s Official Community Plan did not include the required designation of areas where temporary use permits are allowed. At the April 14, 2020 meeting Council made the following motion: That Council direct staff to prepare an amendment bylaw to the Official Community Plan designating areas where Temporary Use Permits may be allowed.
Staff have prepared a report to provide additional background information on Temporary Use Permits in the Local Government Act, in Bowen’s history, and in neighbouring communities. This report recommends the consultation appropriate for this amendment prior to Council’s consideration of an amendment bylaw.
TEMPORARY USE PERMITS ON BOWEN ISLAND Local Government Act Division 8 of Part 14 of the Local Government Act (LGA) lays out how a local government may use Temporary Use Permits (TUPs). TUPs are to allow a use that is not permitted by a zoning bylaw. TUPs may also specify conditions under which a temporary use may be carried on and allow or regulate the construction of building or structures in respect of the use for which the permit is issued. A TUP can also contain conditions such as security requirements, or even require an owner to give an undertaking to demolish or remove a building and restore land at the ending of a permit.
Page 1 of 6 TUP Amendment to the OCP May 11, 2020 Page 133 of 310 Similar to Development Permits, a local government may delegate the power to issue a temporary use permit to a staff member, with the provision that the owner of the land is able to have a local government reconsider a decision by a delegate. The LGA also requires certain notice requirements that must be met before issuing a TUP. A TUP may be issued for a term of up to three years, and may be renewed one time.
Crucially, for the purpose of this report, the power to issue a TUP only applies if an OCP or zoning bylaws designates areas where temporary uses may be allowed. This is laid out in section 492 and 493, which reads:
Designation of temporary use permit areas
492 For the purposes of section 493, an official community plan or a zoning bylaw may (a) designate areas where temporary uses may be allowed, and (b) specify general conditions regarding the issue of temporary use permits in those areas.
Temporary use permits for designated areas and other areas
493 (1) On application by an owner of land, a local government may issue a temporary use permit as follows: (a) by resolution, in relation to land within an area designated under section 492;
The required designation of areas for TUPs may be made within the OCP or the LUB. Currently all provisions and conditions on TUPs are found within the OCP, and staff recommend placing a designation in the same bylaw for consistency.
2011 Official Community Plan Bowen’s 2011 OCP has a section (3.10) that is titled “Temporary Use Permits” which contains one objective and a series of policies relating to TUPs. This Section is given below in full.
3.10 Temporary Use Permits Objective 98 To give consideration to temporary land use permits for shortterm or seasonal uses. Policy 235 The Municipality may consider issuing temporary land use permits provided the use is short-term or seasonal in nature and will not create an unacceptable negative impact upon the natural environment or the character of the neighbourhood. Permits shall be issued in accordance with the Local Government Act. Policy 236 Industrial facilities for the loading, dumping, barging or transshipping of resources or bulk goods are not supported in any waterfront location except by use of a Temporary Use Permit, where such permits are eligible for issue, with a condition of the permit that addresses the frequency, timing and intensity of use of the site. Policy 237 The Municipality may consider requiring development approval information for any Temporary Use Permit application through the adoption of a Development Approval Information Bylaw.
The OCP also includes additional policies that refer to TUPs. These are as follows:
Page 2 of 6 TUP Amendment to the OCP May 11, 2020 Page 134 of 310
Policy 91 The Municipality will manage development through its jurisdictional authority to: • regulate subdivision, landscaping, parking, signs, building, tree cutting, riparian setbacks and zoning, including zoning for amenities; • identify suitable lands for density re-allocation from donor lands to density increase eligible lands; • negotiate housing agreements and phased development agreements; • issue variances, including temporary use permits; • issue development permits; • register restrictive covenants and building schemes; • adopt a Development Cost Charge bylaw; and • use all other statutory powers at its discretion.
Policy 190 Campgrounds serving the needs of backpackers and bicyclists may be permitted through commercial zoning regulation or temporary use permit on larger Rural designated properties on Schedules C and C – 1A (Land Use Designations) which are or will potentially be accessible by island trails. Campgrounds should be subject to regulations that relate to design and servicing requirements in order to minimize impacts on the environment and should have on site supervision.
Policy 227 If logs cannot be readily used on-island or transported without significant impacts, a log dump may be acceptable through a “temporary use permit”.
Policy 417 Home based businesses which propose to expand or operate on a site at a level beyond that permitted in the Land Use Bylaw will require a rezoning or temporary use permit.
None of these policies designate an area as required under the LGA. As such, staff recommend that an amendment is required before Council issue any further TUPs.
1996 OCP Bowen Island’s previous OCP, issued in 1996 under the authority of the Islands Trust Committee, contained a section (7) that outlined Temporary Use Permits (at that time allowed under the LGA as Temporary Commercial Use Permits and Temporary Industrial Use Permits for a maximum of two years). The ‘Background’ paragraph of the section outlined the basic regulations for TUPs. Section 7 then designated two areas to issue TUPs. Area 1 was defined as all areas designated Rural (R) on the OCP Map. This area was permitted for TUPs to allow temporary campgrounds. Area 2 was designated as the entire Bowen Island. This area was permitted for TUPs to allow: • TUPs for home occupations that had been in operation for at least six months that had exceeded the scope of home occupation regulations, to issue a TUPs for a period of not more than a year to allow the business to seek a rezoning; • Special Events or short term (two month maximum) retail market • Portable sawmills This whole section is included as Attachment 1 in this report.
Neighboring Communities In preparing this report staff looked at neighbouring communities to see how they approached the designating of areas for TUPs. Staff noted three main approaches, as outlined below.
Page 3 of 6 TUP Amendment to the OCP May 11, 2020 Page 135 of 310 1. Whole area designated North Pender: “The North Pender Island Trust Committee may issue Temporary Commercial and Industrial Use Permits for any area covered by this plan.” Galiano: “The Local Trust Committee may issue Temporary Permits for all areas covered by this Plan.” Squamish: “The issuance of TUPs may be considered by Council or its designated throughout the District of Squamish plan area.” Gibsons: “All areas within the Town of Gibsons boundaries are designated Temporary Use Permit Areas.” West Vancouver “Pursuant to section 492 of the Local Government Act, all areas in the District are designated as areas for which a temporary use may be allowed, where authorized by a temporary use permit.” (This designation is made in West Vancouver’s Zoning Bylaw)
2. Permitted in some areas Gambier “Temporary Commercial or Industrial Use Permits may be issued for any area covered by this plan, except for areas designated Park or Conservation on Schedule C.” Nanaimo “Temporary Permits may be allowed on all lands designated Industrial, Light Industrial, Commercial, or Urban Node following Council’s consideration and the public review process established in the Local Government Act. Temporary Use Permits may be allowed on lands legally described as LOT A SECTION 1 NANAIMO DISTRICT VIP74056 (301 Eaton Street).” Sechelt “Council may consider issuing permits for temporary commercial or industrial uses where: (a) The property is zoned for commercial or industrial use, or is designated in the OCP as Business and Industry, Downtown or Neighbourhood Centre or Resource use; (b) The property is designated for residential use and the temporary use permit is for a display home/sales centre only;” District of North Vancouver “The entire area of the District of North Vancouver is designated as an area where temporary use permits may be allowed, except for lands which are located outside of the District’s four growth centres and zoned one of the Single Family Residential (RS) zones.” (this designation is made within the District of North Vancouver’s zoning bylaw)
3. Not Permitted Savary Island “No provision shall be made for the issuance of Temporary Use Permits on Savary Island. A change of use shall necessitate rezoning.”
STAFF COMMENTS Staff’s initial recommendation for an OCP would be to include a simple designation similar to those found in the OCPs in Galiano or Squamish. Staff believe this is in keeping with the intent of the 2011 OCP, which expanded the areas to issue TUPs beyond the provisions in the 1996 OCP.
FINANCIAL/ RESOURCE/MAINTENANCE IMPLICATIONS The bylaw drafting and adoption process will incur staff time that could otherwise focus on other priorities. Direct costs of the application would involve advertising costs and potential open house costs (should the municipality be able to host in person open houses). All costs would be within funds already allocated to the Planning Department budget.
COMMUNICATION STRATEGY
Page 4 of 6 TUP Amendment to the OCP May 11, 2020 Page 136 of 310 When considering an amendment of an Official Community Plan section 475 of the LGA requires that the local government must provide one or more opportunities it considers appropriate for consultation with persons, organizations and authorities it considers will be affected.
To determine this, Council must consider whether the opportunities for consultation should be early and ongoing, and specifically consider whether consultation is required with: i. the board of the regional district; ii. the board of any regional district that is adjacent to the area covered by the plan; iii. the council of any municipality that is adjacent to the area covered by the plan; iv. first nations; v. boards of education, greater boards and improvement district boards; vi. the Provincial and federal governments and their agencies.
Given the nature of this amendment, staff recommend that this amendment does not require consultation with any of the boards and agencies listed above, with the exception of the Islands Trust. Staff also recommend this amendment be referred to the Advisory Planning Commission for comment prior to considering an amendment bylaw. Once an amendment bylaw is drafted and has been given First Reading, additional consultation will be required. This would involve public input and an eventual Public Hearing.
ECOLOGICAL/ENVIRONMENTAL/CLIMATE IMPLICATIONS No direct ecological or climate impacts are expected.
CONCLUSION Staff recommend that Council consider an OCP amendment to designate the whole area of Bowen Island for where Council may consider issuing TUPs. Staff recommend that Council refer this report to the Islands Trust and the Advisory Planning Commission for early and ongoing consultation.
ALTERNATIVES 1. That Council direct staff to refer this report to the Islands Trust and APC for comment before drafting an amendment bylaw 2. That Council direct staff to refer this report to additional agencies, organizations, or committees it deems appropriate 3. That Council direct staff to not further pursue this amendment.
ATTACHMENTS AND REFERENCES: Attachment 1 – 1996 OCP TUP Section
Submitted by: Daniel Martin, Manager of Planning and Development
REVIEWED BY:
CAO ☐
Page 5 of 6 TUP Amendment to the OCP May 11, 2020 Page 137 of 310 Bylaw Services ☐ Communications ☐ Finance ☐ Fire & Emergency ☐ Environment & Parks ☐ Planning ☒ Public Library ☐ Public Works ☐ Recreation & Community Services ☐
Page 6 of 6 TUP Amendment to the OCP May 11, 2020 Page 138 of 310 SECTION 7 TEMPORARY COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL USE PERMITS
BACKGROUND
A community plan may designate areas where temporary commercial and industrial uses may be permitted and may specify general conditions regarding the issue of such permits. The permit may, notwithstanding a zoning bylaw, allow any commercial or industrial use and permit the construction or use of buildings and structures to accommodate persons who work at the enterprise and may specify conditions under which the use may be carried on. Public notification shall be required in accordance with provincial legislation. The applicant may be required to provide an undertaking to restore the land and may further be required to provide a security to guarantee the performance of the terms of the permit. The owner will have the right to use the land in accordance with the terms of the permit until the date the permit expires or two years after issue, whichever first occurs. Permits may be renewed only once.
7.1 PERMIT AREA 1
Designated Area
Temporary use permit Area 1 includes all areas designated Rural (R) on Schedule B(Map Designations)
General Conditions for Issue of Permit
The general conditions for the issue of temporary use permits in permit area 1 are:
These areas shall be eligible for use for temporary campground purposes to accommodate people who hike in on foot or arrive on bicycles. The campground developments shall not be accessible by highway. Private road access from a highway for purposes of servicing the site and for emergency purposes shall be permitted provided that it is blocked from other vehicle use. Access to the campground by public trail shall be required.
Matters to be considered when reviewing these permit applications for temporary campground purposes shall include the impact of the proposal on the natural environment including the potential impact of campfires, location and access, impact on adjacent properties, and compliance with any Campground Regulations. Permits may not be issued if any negative impacts arise from consideration of these matters.
7.2 PERMIT AREA 2
Designated Area
Temporary use permit Area 2 applies to all areas covered by this Plan.
General Conditions for Issue of Permit
The general conditions for the issue of temporary use permits in permit area 2 are when:
- such use was lawfully established for a minimum of six months as a home occupation and because of growth in the home occupation activity, such use now exceeds the limitations of permitted use imposed by bylaw for home occupations. The purpose of the temporary permit is to grant a reasonable time, 78 Page 139 of 310 not to exceed one year, for the operator of the business to secure permanent lawful means to continue the business or to decide to discontinue the use; or - in the absence of performance standards, a special event (excluding garage sales) or short term (two month maximum) retail market is proposed; or - a portable sawmill is required at a site and the site is not zoned for industrial purposes that allows for sawmills; or
Matters to be considered when reviewing these permit applications shall include the impact of the use on the natural environment, impact on adjacent properties and the options that are available to the operator to lawfully establish or continue the use. Permits may not be issued for short term retail markets if the majority of the products sold are available from existing businesses or home occupations on Bowen Island. Permits may not be issued if any negative impacts arise from consideration of these matters.
79 Page 140 of 310
To: Mayor Ander and Council
From: Daniel Martin, Manager of Planning and Development
Date: May 1, 2020 Meeting Date: May 11, 2020
Subject: RZ-04-2019 & OCP-03-2019 1050 Miller Road Lot 4 Block 1 District Lot 490 7806
RECOMMENDATION
THAT Council reject applications RZ-04-2019 and OCP-03-2019; and Council direct staff to halt work on a comprehensive review of the properties designated Village Residential on Miller Road.
PURPOSE To present to Council rational to reject applications to amend the Land Use Bylaw (LUB) and Official Community Plan (OCP) along Miller Road.
BACKGROUND The owners of 1050 Miller Road have submitted applications to amend the LUB and OCP to permit the construction of a total of eight rental units (in one duplex and one sixplex). At their November 25, 2019 Meeting, Council recommend that staff prepare a comprehensive review of the effect of rezoning along the entire stretch of Miller Road. Details of the application are laid out in the staff report from that meeting. As part of that review the application was referred to the Advisory Planning Commission and the Mayor’s Standing Committee on Community Lands, Transportation Advisory Committee, Environment and Climate Action Advisory Committee and Housing Advisory Committee. This report brings initial referrals from those committees, as well as an update from the Director of Engineering on the capacity of the Snug Cove Sewer.
COMMITTEE COMMENTS These applications were referred to the committees to review. The Committees each had an initial meeting discussing the applicants to provide initial feedback on the nature of the staff review and comprehensive review. Staff were then to return to the committees for a final recommendation from the committees to Council based on the findings of the comprehensive review. Based on the comments from the Director of Engineering below staff did not return to the committees for a final recommendation. Included in this report are the initial feedback from committees, but staff want to highlight that the feedback does not necessarily reflect a final recommendation.
Page 1 of 4 RZ-04-2019 & OCP-03-2019 November 25, 2019 Page 141 of 310 Advisory Planning Commission – January 20, 2020
It was Moved and Seconded That the Advisory Planning Commission provide the following comments on the comprehensive review of properties designated "Village Residential on Miller Road to determine appropriate policies for future rezoning:
• That ranges of density be permitted based on amenities provided, such as rental units and affordable units, as a ratio of units; • That zoning standards be developed to encourage property assembly for redevelopment; • That zoning standards be developed for these properties that include dedication of land to the municipality sufficient to satisfy the conditions listed below: o That increased traffic flow concerns be addressed, particularly regarding emergency vehicles, by possibly: . Widening Miller Road to allow for turning lanes; . Widening Seniors Lane to allow traffic to flow through this route; o That sufficient on-site parking be provided for; and,
That front yard setbacks be required to provide landscaping and pedestrian-friendly environment adjacent to Miller Road. Mayor’s Standing Committee on Community Lands – January 10, 2020
Discussion included:
• Avoiding parking on Miller Road for aesthetic reasons and possibly sharing driveways
• Guiding vehicle traffic through Seniors Lane
• Ensuring that the policy associated with the opportunity to apply for upzoning clearly indicates responsibilities regarding payment of increased services and amenity contributions
• Implementing Development Cost Charges (DCCs)
• Updating the Snug Cove Design Guidelines to include properties designated as Village Periphery It was agreed that the densification that would result from the proposed upzoning was desirable, but that form and function would be problematic.
Transportation Advisory Committee – February 4, 2020 It was Moved and Seconded That the Transportation Advisory Committee provide the following initial comments regarding the comprehensive review being undertaken by Staff of the impacts of the rezoning of 1050 Miller Road on the 10 residential properties on the portion of Miller Road that are designated Village Residential:
• Regarding access, that Senior Road ultimately be widened, potentially be a one-way route, and a have a raised, separated, multi-use pathway; • That the financial amenities that are earned from upzoning be contributed towards Senior Road and other upgrades; • That Senior Road upgrades be phased in accordance with density growth; • That some access from Miller Road be considered, partially to reduce speeding on that strip of road; • That sidewalk improvements be conducted on the east side of Miller Road, not thePage west; 142 of 310 • That shared driveways be considered a priority; and,
That public engagement be a priority in future considerations regarding the envisioning of this area.
Environment and Climate Action Advisory Committee Meeting – January 16, 2020 Most members were in favour of rezoning the area for increased density in order to address housing concerns on the island in an area that would allow for walkability, but there was not unanimity. Concern was expressed regarding the rising population of Bowen Island and potential lack of water resources to support such growth. It was suggested that rather than rezone the entire are, Council allow the 1050 Miller Road rezoning to proceed and observe the impact of those additional units on the area before proceeding with further upzoning.
Housing Advisory Committee – December 6, 2019 Meeting
Discussion at this meeting included:
• The importance of an overarching envisioning process of the area; • General approval of increasing density in this area; • Frustration with the Official Community Plan;
Maximizing use of laneways to avoid multiple driveways onto Miller Road.
NEIGHBOURS COMMENTS As part of the review, staff contacted all property owners of residential properties along this stretch of Miller Road. Two owners expressed a desire to stay informed of the progress of the review and a third owner wrote that they did not support any rezoning of these properties.
DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING COMMENTS Policy 160 of Bowen’s OCP says: Policy 160 The Municipality will consider applications for townhouses in the Village Residential designation, provided the following criteria are satisfied: • the scale and character of the development can blend in with the surrounding natural environment; • the site can be adequately serviced with Cove Bay water and Snug Cove sewer; and • impacts on adjacent properties pertaining to traffic, privacy, screening, and views can be adequately managed. Bowen’s Director of Engineering began his employment in early 2020. After reviewing the Snug Cove Sewer System he has found that the Snug Cove Sewer System cannot accept additional density. Accordingly, he advised that the Municipality is not in a position to approve this type of rezoning (to increase density to be serviced by the Snug Cove Sewer) until the system is upgraded. The preliminary assessment and design work that is required as a first step in planning for the required upgrades is underway.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS This report is not anticipated to have a financial impact.
COMMUNICATION STRATEGY Notice of Council decision will be included in the minutes and in municipal communications. Staff will also notify neighbours of Council’s decision. Page 143 of 310
CONCLUSION Based on initial findings on the Snug Cove Sewer System capacity, staff recommend Council reject these applications.
ALTERNATIVES 1. That Council reject RZ-04-2019 & OCP-03-2019; 2. That Council direct staff to continue processing applications RZ-04-2019 & OCP-03-2019, with any consideration of First Reading to take place following Council receiving a report on the Snug Cove Sewer. 3. Other alternative as identified by Council.
Attachments and References: Attachment 1 – Staff Report, November 25, 2019 Council Meeting
Submitted by: Daniel Martin, Manager of Planning and Development
REVIEWED BY:
CAO ☒ Bylaw Services ☐ Communications ☐ Finance ☐ Fire & Emergency ☐ Environment & Parks ☐ Planning ☐ Public Library ☐ Public Works ☐ Recreation & Community Services ☐
Page 144 of 310
To: Mayor Ander and Council
From: Bonny Brokenshire, Interim Manager of Environment, Parks Planning and Bylaw Services
Date: May 6, 2020 Meeting Date: May 11, 2020
Subject: Woodfibre LNG - Environmental Assessment Certificate Extension Review
RECOMMENDATION That Council direct the Interim Manager of Environment, Park Planning and Bylaw Services to ask the Provincial Environmental Assessment Office for an extension until May 31, 2020 to allow for a review of the Woodfibre LNG application to extend its Environmental Assessment Certificate; and
That Council direct the Interim Manager of Environment, Parks Planning and Bylaw Services to incorporate the feedback received from Mayor and Council at the May 11, 2020 meeting about the Woodfibre LNG extension application.
PURPOSE As taking part in the Provincial Environmental Assessment process on behalf of Bowen Island Municipality (BIM) is outside municipal staff’s regular duties, the Interim Manager of Environment, Parks Planning and Bylaw Services is seeking direction from Council to proceed with the Provincial Environmental Assessment Office’s (EAO) request for review of the Woodfibre LNG’s Environmental Assessment (EA) Certificate extension application.
BACKGROUND In 2015 Council passed Resolution No. 15-051 which directed staff to take part in the initial Woodfibre LNG project EA on behalf of the Municipality.
In 2015 and early 2016 the Interim Manager of Environment, Parks Planning and Bylaw Services conducted a thorough review of scientific data and reports related to the Woodfibre LNG project and provided comments in areas of knowledge and expertise. The initial EA involved over 40 hours of BIM staff time.
After the Woodfibre LNG project was approved with stipulation and requirements to be adhered to, BIM Council passed Resolution No. 16-153 that expressed continued concerns to the Provincial Environment Assessment Office, to the BC government, and to the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency about the project. Resolution No. 16-153 continued with concerns “that this project lacks adequate safeguards and represents a step toward the re-industrialization of Howe
Page 1 of 3 Woodfibre LNG Report May 11, 2020 Page 145 of 310 Sound”.
WOODFIBRE LNG ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT CERTIFICATE EXTENSION APPLICATION On March 24, 2020, the EAO received an application for a one-time, five-year extension to the Environmental Assessment Certificate (EAC #E15-02) under Section 31 of the Environmental Assessment Act, 2018. The Woodfibre LNG Project EAC is set to expire on October 26, 2020. The EAO has accepted the Application for review (Attachment 1).
As a previous member of the working group for Woodfibre, the EAO invited the Manager of Environment, Parks Planning and Bylaw Services to participate in the review of the attached application, dated March 24, 2020.
Staff received the request for review from the EAO on May 6, 2020 with a deadline of May 19, 2020. The EAO has stated to the Manager of Environment, Parks Planning and Bylaw Services that an extension can be granted as they are aware that BIM staff is seeking direction from Council at the May 11, 2020.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS The costs associated with the review will be covered by existing staff budget.
COMMUNICATION STRATEGY Council resolution will be communicated through the Council meeting minutes.
The extension application is attached to this report and is also publicly available on the EAO's Electronic Project Information & Collaboration System.
Following direction from Council, on May 12, 2020, the Manager of Environment, Parks Planning and Bylaw Services will contact the EAO and ask for an extension until May 31, 2020.
SUMMARY On March 24, 2020, the EAO received an application for a one-time, five-year extension to the Environmental Assessment Certificate (EAC; #E15-02) under Section 31 of the Environmental Assessment Act, 2018. The Woodfibre LNG Project EAC is set to expire on October 26, 2020. The EAO has accepted the Application for review.
Staff is seeking direction from Council to participate in the EAO’s review of the Woodfibre LNG Environmental Assessment Certificate extension application.
ATTACHMENT: 1. Woodfibre LNG extension request
Submitted by: Bonny Brokenshire, Interim Manager of Environment, Parks Planning and Bylaw Services
Page 2 of 3 Woodfibre LNG Report May 11, 2020 Page 146 of 310 REVIEWED BY:
CAO ☒ Bylaw Services ☐ Communications ☐ Finance ☐ Fire & Emergency ☐ Environment & Parks ☒ Planning ☐ Public Library ☐ Public Works ☐ Recreation & Community Services ☐
Page 3 of 3 Woodfibre LNG Report May 11, 2020 Page 147 of 310
March 24, 2020
Environmental Assessment Office PO Box 946 Stn Prov Govt Victoria, BC V8W 9V1
Attention: Michael Shepard, Executive Project Director, Oil & Gas Sector
RE: Extension to Woodfibre LNG Limited’s Environmental Assessment Certificate (#E15-02)
Dear Mr. Shepard,
Reference is made to Environmental Assessment Certificate #E15-02 issued to Woodfibre LNG Limited (Woodfibre LNG) on 26 October 2015 pursuant to the Environmental Assessment Act 2002, c. 43 (former Act) as amended (EAC) for the Woodfibre LNG Project (the Project). As stipulated in EAC Condition 8, the deadline for substantial start of the Project is five years from the date of the EAC (i.e. 26 October 2020). Pursuant to subsection 31(2) of the revitalized Environmental Assessment Act, SBC 2018, c 51 (EAA), Woodfibre LNG hereby requests an extension to the duration of the EAC to 26 October 2025.
1. Supporting Rationale
Woodfibre LNG acknowledges that while the revitalized EAA has come into force, there remain policies and regulations under development, including that which will inform an updated Certificate Extension Policy, that are not yet publicly available. For this reason, this request for extension has been developed in accordance with available guidance1 published by the Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) and gives due consideration to the information requirements laid out therein to provide the rationale to justify an extension of an Environmental Assessment Certificate for a project that has not yet seen a substantial start of construction. The process described in this guidance identifies four questions that must be answered in order for an extension request to be accepted by EAO. Accordingly, sections 1.1 to 1.4 in this request have been structured to answer these four questions.
1.1 Why is the Project development delayed and why do you wish to extend the certificate?
It is of utmost importance to affirm that Woodfibre LNG is fully committed to constructing and operating the Project and is therefore requesting to extend the EAC to allow Project construction to start after the current EAC expiry date of 26 October 2020, due to the reasons outlined in this letter.
Since the EAC was issued in October 2015, Woodfibre LNG has invested significant time, effort, and resources towards advancing the Project’s pre-construction requirements. Despite these efforts, there has been considerable technical, administrative and external challenges that have hindered
1 British Columbia Environmental Assessment Office (BCEAO). 2016. Requesting a Certificate Extension. Retrieved from https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/natural-resource-stewardship/environmental- assessments/guidance-documents/eao-guidance-certificate-holder-requesting-certificate-extension.pdf
1 Page 148 of 310
Woodfibre LNG’s ability to progress the Project into construction and hence, we are revising our construction timelines.
Among such challenges are those associated with the requirements to clean up and remediate the historic pulp mill infrastructure at the Project site. Not only has the scope of this work been greater and more time consuming than originally anticipated, progress was slowed in 2018/2019 when an EAC amendment was required to clarify that site clean up and remediation works did not constitute construction of the Project. Further details on the implications of these works on advancing the Project are described in section 1.2.
Further, Woodfibre LNG has invested significant effort in pursuit of EAC amendments to fulfill its commitments to Indigenous Nations and to make this the best project for the local community in which it intends to conduct business long term. These important amendments continue to divert internal resources away from advancing pre-construction requirements. Further details on the impact of pursuing these amendments on Project timelines are described in section 1.2.
It is also important to acknowledge recently emerged external factors, out of our control, that are influencing our progress. In particular, external factors causing complications in commercial negotiations regarding an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract and COVID-19 have impacted our schedule.
Last fall, Woodfibre LNG was nearing finalization of an EPC contract and announcement of a Final Investment Decision when our preferred contractor for engineering, procurement and module fabrication, encountered financial challenges. In January 2020, our preferred contractor filed for Chapter 11 in the United States and is now undergoing proceedings which are expected to continue at least until July 2020. While this filing has no relationship to Woodfibre LNG, it significantly slows progress on finalizing the contract and hinders our ability to advance engineering of pre-construction requirements. Woodfibre LNG is confident that our preferred contractor will emerge from the process in a strong position to advance critical engineering and procurement to support our construction effort. As our preferred partner, we have developed a strong relationship and a mutual understanding of our Project and we are continuing to work with them as they go through this process.
Woodfibre LNG is not exempt from the effects of COVID-19, the recently emerged global pandemic. At present, COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving health crisis that we are monitoring closely, consistent with our safety policy and commitments to employees, contractors and host communities. As other Canadian companies are doing, in developing business continuity plans, we are attempting to adjust timelines as the effects of COVID-19 unfold. While it is clear that COVID-19 has had implications for our vendor’s manufacturing facilities and fabrication yards in China, the schedule implications due to the delayed manufacturing of specialized equipment and fabrication of modules, related to the construction of our Project, remains unclear at this time. In addition, COVID-19 is causing serious economic implications around the world, creating widespread bank and financial market uncertainty. While we do not yet know the precise implications on our Project, this could lead to
2 Page 149 of 310
complications in Project financing arrangements and commercial negotiations regarding the EPC contract.
1.2 What works have you done to advance the Project?
We refer to the recent EAO publication “Guide to Substantially Started Determinations”,2 which describes a series of important factors that decision makers should consider as guidelines when forming a substantial start determination. These factors include:
. An assessment of the time, effort and resources invested to physically develop one or more main project elements; . Whether or not any activities completed are recognized as a critical path component (or considered as secondary or ancillary); and . Whether or not the activity would have occurred regardless of a project.
After reviewing all activities completed to advance the Project, Woodfibre LNG is confident that regardless of the significant investment of time, effort, and resources that have been expended, none of these activities may be attributed to the physical development of main Project elements. Further, Woodfibre LNG maintains that no physical activities described in the Project’s CPD (as amended July 2019) have been undertaken and thus no categorization of activities (i.e., critical path or secondary) has occurred. To date, all works completed to advance the Project are related to clean up and remediation of the historic pulp mill site and related infrastructure and/or are administrative in nature.
It is important however to acknowledge the efforts Woodfibre LNG has taken to clean up and remediate the Project site in order to advance the Project. To date, Woodfibre LNG has spent $13 million on clean up and remediation activities including but not limited to the removal of historic marine infrastructure (wharfs and other pile-supported structures), removal of greater than 4000 creosote piles from the marine environment and the ongoing removal and recycling of historic concrete slab foundations. These works are being completed pursuant to the Squamish Nation Environmental Assessment Agreement (SNEAA), Certificate of Compliance (COC) issued by the BC Ministry of Environment (BC MoE), and/or Lease Agreement with the Ministry of Forests, Lands, and Natural Resource Operation and Rural Development (MFLNRORD) and are a substantial undertaking. As is often the case for historic industrial and contaminated sites, unreported and thus unanticipated hazards have increased the scope of previously anticipated works and are taking longer than anticipated to complete. Therefore, although site clean up and remediation are not yet complete, advancing these works are a key step in progressing the Project towards construction.
Woodfibre LNG also references EAC Amendment No.1 (Air Cooling Technology) which Woodfibre LNG initiated in accordance with the SNEAA issued in October 2015. More specifically, Condition 1(a) of the SNEAA requires Woodfibre LNG to compare the environmental effects associated with alternative and varying cooling technologies. On 19 October 2016, after careful consideration and discussion of the alternatives, the Squamish Nation required Woodfibre LNG to employ air cooling
2 British Columbia Environmental Assessment Office (BCEAO). 2019. Substantial Start Determination Process. Retrieved from https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/natural-resource-stewardship/environmental- assessments/guidance-documents/eao-guidance-certificate-holder-substantially-started-determinations.pdf
3 Page 150 of 310
technology as opposed to the originally proposed sea-water cooling technology. On 27 January 2017, Woodfibre LNG submitted an application to amend the EAC to include air cooling technology to lessen potential long-term impacts on the local environment. On 12 July 2017, twenty-one months after receiving the SNEAA, Woodfibre LNG received Amendment No. 1 for Air Cooling Technology.
While completing this amendment was essential in advancing the Project, throughout the amendment period, the ability to progress many of the pre-construction conditions described in the Project EAC was limited. This was largely due to the requirement to include the potential changes to LNG cooling technology into both the Front End Engineering and Design (FEED) scope of work, and the proposed contract language for a potential EPC contractor.
With reference to EAC amendment No.2, Woodfibre LNG would like to acknowledge administrative challenges which delayed progress on completing site clean up and remediation works. This amendment application was initiated following direction received from the EAO on 30 November 2018, following a routine site inspection with representatives of the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) during which removal of creosote piles from the marine environment was observed. Woodfibre LNG maintained that the works observed during the inspection fell outside the purview of the CPD and were contemplated as part of an independent scope of work for the clean up and remediation of the historic industrial site. Woodfibre LNG was required to complete this work in accordance with the purchase of the historic pulp mill site and to honour those commitments made pursuant to its Squamish Nation Environmental Assessment Agreement (SNEAA) entered into with Squamish Nation in October 2015. Woodfibre LNG therefore pursued EAC amendment No.2 to clarify the breadth of the Project Construction phase through the use of more direct language that clearly delineated jurisdiction of the CPD. Subsequent upland activities that would have occurred under the clean up and remediation scope at the start of 2019 were left on hold until the EAC amendment was received. The approved application for amendment was received from EAO in July of 2019, eight months after the inspection that triggered it. Despite this pause in progress of the clean up and
4 Page 151 of 310
remediation work, obtaining this amendment enabled these works to resume and advance the Project towards construction.
In response to public feedback regarding additional accommodation options to support Project construction, Woodfibre LNG submitted to the EAO a third application to amend the EAC. The proposed Amendment No.3 includes the mobilization and operation of a floating hotel (or “Floatel”) and supporting infrastructure, and is expected to result in additional Project benefits such as:
. Reduced effect on at-market housing within the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District and Vancouver; . Reduced pressure on community infrastructure and services; and . Reduced vehicle traffic on the Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99). Woodfibre LNG recognizes the effect the availability of sound and reliable worker accommodation will have not only on the Project but also on the local community. Woodfibre LNG intends to fully incorporate this scope of work into the necessary Project management systems, processes, and tools as appropriate (i.e., Environmental Management Plans (EMPs) required by the EAC prior to the start of construction). Woodfibre LNG anticipates receipt of amendment No. 3 in Q3, 2020, at which time it will be able to focus on completing detailed planning for the start of construction with the confidence that activities can be completed without unforeseen impact.
In addition to the EA amendments previously described, Woodfibre LNG has advanced engineering design, permitting and Indigenous engagement in order to achieve the following key Project milestones:
Invested greater than $40 million to date on FEED and detailed engineering; Procured candidate vessels for use as Floating Storage Tanks in 2014; Initiated TERMPOL review process through submission to Transport Canada in 2015; Obtained National Energy Board export licence to export LNG for 40 years in June 2017; Obtained British Columbia Oil and Gas Commission Facilities Permit in July 2019; Ordered the main cryogenic heat exchanger in August 2019, critical to the liquefaction of natural gas and part of a procurement process to de-risk the Project schedule by purchasing long lead items; Signed Impact Benefit Agreement (IBA) with the Squamish Nation in February 2019; and, Progressed IBA discussions with Tsleil-Waututh Nation. Further, Woodfibre LNG has invested substantial effort towards advancing pre-construction commitments in the EAC. While completion of pre-construction commitments is still pending and subject to approval from EAO, efforts have included:
Development of draft EMPs required by the EAC and initiation of associated consultation with regulatory agencies and Indigenous groups; Conducted numerous meetings with relevant federal, provincial and municipal agencies and community groups on EAC conditions and Project permitting; Developed and maintained a dedicated Project website to keep external parties informed of Project activities consistent with EAC Condition 25. This website is currently undergoing renovation and updating, with a relaunch planned for Q2 2020; and
5 Page 152 of 310
Conducted consultation meetings with forest tenure holders, consistent with EAC Condition 19.
1.3 What plans, including timelines, do you have for advancing the Project if the certificate is extended?
It is important to acknowledge that the Project’s construction schedule is constrained by least risk timing windows, consistent with mitigation measures identified in the EA application and conditions of the EAC. Examples include Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) least risk timing window for the protection of marine fish and fish habitat in Howe Sound from August 16 – January 31 and the Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) guidance for avoiding certain works during regional nesting periods from late March to Mid August. Woodfibre LNG’s target to start construction is within the first year of extension of the EAC and within the least risk windows for marine fish and avoiding regional nesting periods. However, Woodfibre LNG recognises that unpredictable implications of external factors including the outcome of our preferred contractor’s Chapter 11 proceedings and the COVID-19 pandemic will effect Project timelines.
Between now and substantial start of construction, Woodfibre LNG plans to continue site clean up and remediation activities, and will remain focused on completing pre-construction requirements identified in our environmental assessment approvals and advancing permitting for the construction phase.
A key component of the current pre-construction phase is an assurance that commitments made through consultation with Indigenous Nations, engagement with the local community, and the regulatory review process are carried forward into the Project design and construction implementation processes. Woodfibre LNG will continue conducting consultation on the required pre-construction EMPs with identified Indigenous Nations, government agencies and stakeholders. Woodfibre LNG is targeting advancement of these EMPs by the end of 2020, pending completion of the EAC amendment #3.
An EAC extension will support Woodfibre LNG’s efforts in continuing to champion the principles of the Truth and Reconciliation Committee’s (TRC) Calls to Action and implement the spirit of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) as incorporated into British Columbia law through the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). Woodfibre LNG acknowledges the importance of free, prior and informed consent for Indigenous Peoples and their right to self-determination regarding development projects and activities that could impact their traditional lands. Woodfibre LNG respects that this consent must relate not only to environmental and economic issues, but also to social, gender, community health and cultural considerations as well.
The Squamish Nation have recognized rights and title to traditional lands that include the Certified Project Area. The Squamish Nation, through the Woodfibre Environmental Working Group (WEWG), provides us with a lens of traditional knowledge to field activities and for consideration during design and construction planning. Woodfibre LNG currently remains, and will continue to remain, actively engaged in advancing Project discussions through the WEWG.
In the spirit of the new legislation (DRIPA and EAA) and the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, Woodfibre LNG is also committed to working with Indigenous nations including the Tsleil-Waututh
6 Page 153 of 310
Nation. More recently, Woodfibre LNG has increased collaborative work with the Tsleil-Waututh Nation with a view to developing a more robust relationship through Tsleil-Waututh Nations Treaty, Lands, and Resources Department. Woodfibre LNG is working with Tsleil-Waututh Nation towards alignment on a common process. An EAC extension will enable Woodfibre LNG to respect community driven deliberations and seek mutually acceptable solutions.
In addition to pre-construction requirements of our environmental assessment approvals, Woodfibre LNG plans to advance the more than 100 permits required for construction and operation of the Project. The key focus between now and substantial start of construction is on preparing and submitting applications for permits required to enable the Project to start construction.
1.4 Has new information come to light since the original certificate was granted that could impact the conclusions reached in the certificate?
As described in section 1.2, since the original certificate was issued, significant discussion has occurred regarding worker accommodation for the construction phase of the Project. Based on feedback from the community and stakeholders, Woodfibre LNG has submitted an application in October 2019 for EAC amendment No. 3 to propose a floating worker accommodation at the site. Woodfibre LNG remains committed to completing the amendment process to ensure Project impacts on at-market housing, community infrastructure and services, and vehicle traffic on Sea to Sky Highway are minimized.
In addition, Woodfibre LNG acknowledges required changes to the Project site have resulted from the pre-construction clean up and remediation activities that may have affected the current site condition as characterised during the original EAC application and review. For example, the removal of historic marine infrastructure, including more than 4000 creosote piles, has changed the physical marine habitat, which could influence related environmental parameters. As such, Woodfibre LNG is committed, through existing EAC conditions and in meeting permit application requirements, to supplementing the existing multi-year baseline datasets, where required, to support monitoring of Project effects and effectiveness of mitigation measures.
Woodfibre LNG also acknowledges that procedural changes in the newly incorporated and revitalized EAA will play a significant role in the Chief Executive Assessment Officer’s decision with respect to this request for extension, under Section 31(4)(a) of the EAA. These new legislative measures empower Indigenous Nations to seek opportunities to build consensus amongst their potentially project-affected community members, and seek consent at key points in the assessment process.
Of importance to Woodfibre LNG is an understanding of the newly legislated requirements for consultation and engagement embedded in the recently revitalized EAA. Woodfibre LNG welcomes greater opportunities to consult and strengthen our relationships with Indigenous groups and stakeholders. An EAC extension will allow us the time required to address any potential implications of these changes while ensuring ongoing compliance with the EAA.
2. Closing
Woodfibre LNG submits that this request for extension of EAC #E15-02 has been completed in line with the guidance provided by EAO. This request considers the current state of Project activities in
7 Page 154 of 310
its determination that a substantial start of construction has not yet been achieved which, as a result, allows for an EAC extension request to be carried forward and considered by the office of the Chief Executive Assessment Officer. The rationale included as part of this request considers the circumstances which have resulted in the adjusted timing of start of construction activities yet also provides context to understand the activities that have occurred or are planned to occur on site. A timeframe for a reasonable start of construction has also been offered for information and consideration during the review of this request.
If you have any questions, please contact James Wilkinson, Senior Regulatory Manager at (604)620- 7883 or [email protected].
Sincerely,
Woodfibre LNG Limited
David Keane President
8 Page 155 of 310 Nexwlelexwem / Bowen Island, May 5, 2020
Mayor and Council Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island BC V0N 1G2
Re: Proposed 5-year extension to Woodfibre LNG’s environmental assessment certificate
Dear Mayor and Council:
I am contacting you on behalf of Concerned Citizens Bowen, and on behalf of my children who are both in their teens.
Just yesterday at the dinner table, my daughter (18) brought up that she had watched a climate change documentary and that it was "pretty depressing".
How do you react as a parent? How do you respond as a 55+ year old human being whose generation is dominant in political power everywhere, and therefore, in a unique position - never before in human and earth's history - to change course?
Since I am in a leadership position at Concerned Citizens Bowen, and our supporters do look to us for encouragement and with an expectation that we fight for their future, I responded: "Yes, it is depressing, but we have a chance to keep the effects of climate change from becoming catastrophic by staying below global 1.5 degrees Celsius global warming" and added, "What I personally also find depressing is our provincial and federal governments still supporting the building of new fossil fuel plants, when they should only be approving and supporting renewable energy projects."
For once, my kids agreed.
Your response as council has been to adopt a climate emergency and a climate action strategy. That is the kind of leadership we are all looking for. Thank you!
With that strategy in place, I am bringing the following matter to your attention.
Coming October 26, it will be five years since the company Woodfibre LNG received its Provincial approval in the form of an Environmental Assessment Certificate for its proposed fossil fuel plant here in Átl’ḵa7tsem/Howe Sound. Since then, the project has not 'substantially started', and the company will need a certificate extension to continue. For this, it has recently submitted a request to the BC EAO. No doubt the BC EAO has already informed you about this with an invitation for input. Page 156 of 310 1 Since the 2015 approval, arguments have come by why this LNG project should go ahead: it is a 'transition fuel', it is ‘clean’, it is too small to have an effect on climate change, and it is a future provincial revenue source. All these arguments have been debunked, as the predicted effects of climate change have become reality and progressively more dangerous. Bowen Island and many other governments have declared a climate emergency.
Currently COVID-19 is showing us that governments have a lot of power born out of their legal responsibility to protect the safety of their citizens. Not applying this standard of due care to climate change by not taking timely and sufficient preemptive action, is already creating hazardous situations resulting in injury and damage. Not applying this standard of due care is not only irresponsible, it is unlawful, but the Federal and BC governments continue to look the other way supporting new fossil fuel projects.
Therefore, on behalf of 1,300 Bowen Island residents who signed the Howe Sound Declaration in opposition to the Woodfibre LNG project near Squamish, I am asking you: 1) to advice the Minister and the EAO not to extend the Environmental Certificate for the proposed Woodfibre LNG methane processing and LNG export facility. 2) to advice Squamish Nation Chiefs and Council - which has since partnered with the company on this project - to not continue with this project.
Of course, you must form your own decision on this matter, as the Bowen Island community expects and accepts nothing less.
To help in this process and to make a staff review less time consuming, we offer counter information we have on several issues the company has brought up as reasons for delay.
Please note: The company missed the Jan 26, 2020 application deadline for the extension by two months without providing explanation, but the EAO accepted its request.
Thank you for your time and attention.
Awaiting your early reply, I remain.
Kind regards,
J.H. Anton van Walraven, Ir. M.Eng. Email: anton Concerned Citizens Bowen | ccbowen.ca Eagles Nest Rd Nexwlelexwem/Bowen Island BC V0N 1G1
Page 157 of 310 2
To: Mayor Ander and Council
From: Dennis Back, CAO
Date: May 7, 2020 Meeting Date: May 11, 2020
Subject: Expenditure Authorization to Fund Alternative Transportation Service
RECOMMENDATION THAT Council authorize an expenditure not to exceed $15,000 to fund the net cost of operating an alternative bus service on Bowen Island during such time as Translink bus service is suspended; source of funding to be the Alternative Transportation Infrastructure Reserve Fund.
PURPOSE The purpose of this report is to seek authorization of funding to support the provision of an alternative bus service for Bowen Island on a temporary basis.
BACKGROUND On or about April 29th, Translink announced that effective May 2nd they would be implementing cuts to the transit service, including the cessation of bus service on Bowen Island.
The Bowen Transportation Society (BTS), working in conjunction with the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), immediately started exploring opportunities to provide an alternative service in place of Translink.
BTS is a non-profit society that usually operates a shuttle service between Horseshoe Bay and downtown Vancouver, and connects with the Bowen Island water taxi on the return trip home.
Given its experience in transportation services, BTS stepped forward and agreed to coordinate the setting up of a temporary bus service for the Island.
PROPOSED BUS SERVICE
BTS has been able to arrange for the rental of a bus to provide this temporary service, along with drivers. While the costs are to be borne by the BIM for the start up and in the short term, it is intended that the Society, working with BIM EOC will be able to identify both cost saving options as well as outside funding sources.
This report is submitted to Council for the purpose of obtaining funding approval for the temporary bus service on the understanding that only the funds that are necessary to keep the service going will be spent, and that the expenditures will not exceed that maximum amount approved by Council.
Page 1 of 2 Expenditure Authorization to Fund Alternative Transportation Service Council meeting May 11, 2020 Page 158 of 310 As the final costs for provision of the service are not known at this time given the efforts to reduce operating costs and source outside funding, a budget figure of $15,000 is proposed as the maximum amount that the Municipality will provide at this time. It is understood that the Translink service will be restored no later than September, and in fact if the Province decides to provide Translink with the necessary funding to restore service earlier, then the timeline could be moved up significantly.
FINANCIAL The source of funding for this request is the Alternative Transportation Infrastructure Reserve Fund. While the reserve fund is largely intended for capital purposes, there is nothing in the bylaw that specifically restricts the use of these funds for operating purposes.
In the event that Council wishes to preserve this fund at its current level and not use it for operating purposes, then Ministerial Order No. M084 issued by the Province on March 26, 2020 authorizes municipalities to borrow from their reserve funds for repayment at a later date.
COMMUNICATION STRATEGY The availability of this service will be communicated to the public through the regular Municipal communication channels.
OPTIONS Council has the following options available: 1. Approve the recommendation as contained in this report; 2. Identify a different municipal funding source; 3. Decide to notify BTS that it will not be funding the alternative bus service beyond this point.
Submitted by: Dennis Back, Chief Administrative Officer
Page 2 of 2 Expenditure Authorization to Fund Alternative Transportation Service Council meeting May 11, 2020 Page 159 of 310
May 8, 2020 Dear Mayor and Council,
Thank you again for partnering with the Bowen Island Community Foundation on both our Neighbourhood Small Grants Program, and our new Resiliency Fund. I’d like to report on the activities Board of Directors of the two committees tasked with considering applications, and draw your attention to all the good work you should be seeing in the coming days as a direct outcome of our partnership with the Bowen Chair Island Municipality. Holly Graff
Directors Both of these granting streams have resulted in community members identifying and addressing Neil Boyd some of the particular challenges our island community faces during this pandemic. Namely – Joanne Gassman, Vice Chair • Systemic accessibility to food, hygiene, and basic needs (excluding housing and income) Jennifer Hall • Provision of relevant information to promote resiliency and mitigate fear and confusion Sheree Johnson, Secretary Larry Lunn • Mobilizing citizens to assist vulnerable neighbours with challenges of isolation. Amanda Ockeloen Rob Purdy, Treasurer For the Neighbourhood Small Grants program, early in the application process, the parameters were Ted Spear changed by our partner the Vancouver Foundation due to COVID-19. The focus moved to projects Kate Thomas-Peter that connect people socially or involve skill sharing to help manage the effects of social isolation.
Administrator With the caveat that it must comply with public health orders for physical distancing. Lisa Wrinch ______To date, the nine-person committee (comprised of BI Community Foundation Ambassadors) has approved ten projects for a total of $4,970 worth of these Neighbourhood Small Grants. We are 2020 Grant Recipients proud of the work these applicants have proposed, as they have stepped forward to help us all manage in many different ways during this time. Bowen Children’s Centre Society Our Resiliency Fund has been equally busy since its formation at the end of March, and subsequent BI Archery Club partnership with BIM on April 8th. Unlike the Neighbourhood Small Grants, these are targeted to system-wide solutions with a broad impact on our community. BI Health Centre Foundation
BI Respite Care Society We have received five applications, declined one as premature, approved two requests with BI Trail Society modifications, and approved two as submitted. Three of these grants address the provision of relevant information to promote resiliency and mitigate fear and confusion, and one with ensuring Caring Circle Health & Wellness Society the accessibility to food, hygiene, and basic needs.
Island Pacific School Society The total amount that this eight-person committee (comprised of six BICF Directors, one Councillor, ______and one BIM EOC staff) has recommended for approval by the Bowen Island Community Foundation Board is $26,600 as of this date. Acknowledgements The combined amount awarded from these two grant streams currently comes to $31,570 while we We acknowledge with gratitude continue to accept and consider all applications. It is only with the generous support of individual that we live and work on the community members that we have been able to give back in such a significant and immediate way. traditional territories of the Squamish(Sḵwx̱ wú7mesh), Musqueam (xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm), Community is the heart of Bowen, and this pandemic is one more reminder that, especially as an Tsleil-Waututh island, we’re all dependent on one another. (Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh), and Sechelt (Shíshálh) First Nations.
Holly Graff Chair
Bowen Island Community Foundation | PO BoxEncl. 18 | Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0 | Find us on Facebook | www.bowenfoundation.com | Tax No: BN 883618514RR0001 Page 160 of 310 cc: Mayor Ander and BIM Council Edward Wachtman and Judi Gedye, NERP
2020 BICF Resiliency Fund Grant Awards as of May 7, 2020
APPLICANT PROJECT PURPOSE REQUESTED APPROVED CEDC Business Navigation Provision of Info $15,000 $2,000 Undercurrent Island wide distribution Provision of Info $10,000-$20,000 $4,000 NERP Neighbourhood Information Provision of Info $15,000 $15,000 Kiosks Food Resilience Locally grown food garden Food Access $5,573.25 $5,600 Society
Total Funds Granted: $26,600
1. Community Economic Development Committee (CEDC) Application That the BICF Board approve a Resiliency Fund Grant to the Bowen Island Community Economic Development Committee (CEDC) for $2000 to be used to underwrite a pilot program that would fund the honoraria costs of two CEDC “Navigators” for one month, both of whom will be available to local businesses to help them get access to federal and provincial support funds, and who will determine what other support services they -- and other Bowen businesses -- may need.
This initiative falls under the second priority area of the fund -- i.e. “the provision of relevant information to promote resiliency ....” Funds Requested: $15,000 Funds Granted: $ 2,000 (for a pilot of the “Navigators” element)
2. Bowen Undercurrent Application That the BICF Board approve a Resiliency Fund Grant to the Bowen Island Undercurrent for $4,000 to be used to underwrite two island-wide distributions of the paper (1 per month for May and June), both of which will include COVID-related information curated by Undercurrent staff as well as paid advertisements created by the foundation.
This initiative falls under the second priority area of the fund -- i.e. “the provision of relevant information to promote resiliency ....” Funds Requested: $10,000-$20,000 (depending on duration) Funds Granted: $ 4,000
Page 161 of 310
3. Neighbourhood Emergency Response Programme (NERP) Application That the BICF Board approve a Resiliency Fund Grant to the Neighbourhood Emergency Response Programme (NERP) for $15,000 to be used to design, build and install up to 10 easily identifiable, strategically placed community information kiosks that will display relevant emergency response information.
This initiative falls under the second priority area of the fund -- i.e. “the provision of relevant information to promote resiliency ....” Funds Requested: $15,000 Funds Granted: $15,000
4. Bowen Island Food Resilience Society (BIRFS) That the BICF Board approve a Resiliency Fund Grant to the Bowen Island Food Resilience Society (BIFRS) for $5,600 to be used to fund a pilot program that would create a community of volunteers to grow food at the Grafton Agricultural Commons site for distribution to the Food Bank and possibly others struggling to afford enough nutritional produce.
This initiative falls under the first priority of the fund -- i.e. “Accessibility to Food”. Funds Requested: $5,573.25 Funds Granted: $5,600
Page 162 of 310
2020 R-NSG Grant Awards
APPLICANT PROJECT PURPOSE REQUESTED APPROVED Sheana Stevenson Great Bowen Bunny Search Contest Isolation $ 500.00 $ 500.00 John Stiver Guitar Tips Isolation $ 500.00 $ 500.00 Cyrille Saura-Zellweger Weekly Online Art Sessions Isolation $ 500.00 $ 500.00 Elliot Rushton Bowen Island COVID19 Resource Website Provision of Info $ 500.00 $ 500.00 Shahar Rabi The ARK on Bowen Island Isolation $ 250.00 $ 500.00 Jillian Rushton Plant It Forward Food Access $ 500.00 $ 500.00 Denise Richard Discover Your Health Isolation $ 500.00 $ 500.00 Meribeth Deen Scarborough Food Resilience Food Access $ 470.00 $ 470.00 Mary Letson Community Fitness During COVID19 Crisis Isolation $ 500.00 $ 500.00 Julie Vik Washable Cloth Face Masks Hygiene Access $ 500.00 $ 500.00
Total Funds Granted: $4,970
Page 163 of 310 From: Bowen Island Municipality To: Hope Dallas Subject: BIM and Bowen Island Community Foundation team up with two new grant funds Date: Thursday, April 23, 2020 3:06:28 PM
Click here to view this newsletter in your browser
April 23, 2020
Bowen Island Municipality and the Community Foundation have teamed up to offer two new grant streams in response to COVID-19: Community Resiliency Grants and Neighbourhood Small Grants. These grants will help keep our community resilient and able to recover sooner after this crisis. Community Resiliency Grants
The Community Resiliency Grant provides flexible grants to address key priority areas for the island through integrated and systemic solutions. The solutions should affect a broad spectrum of the Bowen population and not be redundant with other initiatives. The priority areas are:
The availability of food, hygiene, or other basic needs (excluding housing and income benefits). The provision of relevant information to promote resiliency and mitigate fear and confusion. The mobilization of citizens to assist their vulnerable neighbours with the challenges they are facing from isolation.
These priorities are all areas where there is a gap in government assistance and other relief programs.
Organizations and individuals are eligible to apply for the Community Resiliency Grant and you do not need to have a charitable partner.
To donate to the BICF Resiliency Fund, go to: bowenfoundation.com
For more information or to apply for a grant, go to: bowenfoundation.com/resiliency-fund Responsive Neighbourhood Small Grants
The Responsive Neighbourhood Small Grants Program funds small-scale projects that reduce social isolation. R-NSG projects will adhere to physical distancing guidelines in response to the COVID-19 global pandemic and invite individuals to dream up creative projects that address the following areas: tackle and address social isolation; build community strength and resilience; and foster community creativity and wellbeing.
The R-NSG grant stream provides grants of up to $500 for projects that connect people socially or involve sharing skills or talents with each other. Projects must comply with public health orders for physical distancing. Examples of such projects are delivering care packages to elderly or immunocompromised people in the neighbourhood. Responsive NSG also supports projects that involve sharing skills or talents through online platforms. Examples include hosting a webinar on a topic you know well, teaching an exercise class, or digital musical performance. Out of your entire project budget, you may spend up to $350 providing honorariums for those sharing skills. This includes yourself.
Page 164 of 310 For more information and to apply for a Responsive Neighbourhood Small Grant, please go to: bowenfoundation.com/responsive-neighbourhood-small-grants
Email sent to: [email protected]
Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, British Columbia | V0N 1G2 | Canada 6049474255 | [email protected]
Anti‑spam policy | Report an abuse | Unsubscribe
Page 165 of 310 From: Bowen Island Municipality To: Bowen Island Municipality Subject: Emergency Operations Centre Update - April 24, 2020 Date: Friday, April 24, 2020 2:48:38 PM
Click here to view this newsletter in your browser
Bowen Island Municipality Emergency Operations Centre Update # 7 April 24, 2020
Re: EOC Activities Update
The Emergency Operations Centre team has been coordinating Bowen Island Municipality’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. A few new developments have taken place over the past week and they are summarized below.
Mayor Ander’s update to the community on COVID-19
In this week's update, Mayor Ander talks about essential service workers, first responders and urgent medical care, and a new partnership with the Community Foundation.
Watch Mayor Ander’s video update
Suspension of Bowen Island bus service in May
With ridership down over 80% throughout the region due to COVID-19, TransLink has announced a series of cost-saving measures to preserve Metro Vancouver’s transit system along with a commitment from the Province to ensure near-regular service can be restored by September.
On Bowen Island, the 280 Bluewater, 281 Eagle Cliff and 282 Mt. Gardner bus service will be suspended in mid-May. TransLink will announce the exact date for suspension of these routes shortly.
Planning for transportation reductions
The Advanced Planning unit is looking for information about essential service workers and other bus users who may be impacted by the following potential service reductions:
Translink suspension of local bus service (please describe how you use the bus service and for what purpose) BC Ferries reduced schedule (Please note that there has been no indication from BC Ferries that service reductions to Bowen Island are being proposed, we are purely gathering information).
If either of the above would affect your ability to provide essential services, please provide your feedback to the EOC at [email protected]
Avoiding risky activities during COVID-19
Hospitals continue to be safe places for patients, but you can reduce pressure on the health care system and our local first responders by not willingly engaging in risky activities that might lead to accidents. So
Page 166 of 310 maybe think twice before popping that wheelie, trying a new mountain bike jump or climbing that rock face. Read more
BIM and Bowen Island Community Foundation team up with two new grant funds
Bowen Island Municipality and the Community Foundation have teamed up to offer two new grant streams in response to COVID-19: Community Resiliency Grants and Neighbourhood Small Grants. These grants will help keep our community resilient and able to recover sooner after this crisis.
Read more
Essential service providers: do you need Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) or sanitation supplies?
The Emergency Operations Centre may be able to help you request these supplies from the Province.
Read more
BIRD accepting refundable containers and electronics again
Bowen Waste Solutions (BWS) is pleased to announce the collection of refundable containers and electronics at the Bowen Island Recycling Depot (BIRD) will be reinstated as of Friday, April 24, 2020. Some temporary restrictions and procedures will be in place.
Read the news release
Wearing face coverings on BC Ferries
BC Ferries advises that Transport Canada encourages customers to wear face coverings to cover their mouth and nose during travel if they cannot maintain physical distance from others while on board. For more information, read Transport Canada’s news release here.
Read more about BC Ferries COVID-19 Response
Frequently asked questions
We are continuously adding Frequently Asked Questions about local issues related to the pandemic on our website. Issues are changing daily and hourly, so we've included the date and time that the information is current.
More of what we’re working on and ongoing activities
Supporting the Neighbourhood Emergency Response Program (NERP). Helping the food bank by providing a vehicle and driver to purchase food in town and deliver back to Bowen Island. Working with the Bowen Island Community Foundation to provide grants in response to COVID- 19. Supporting local volunteer groups who are offering assistance to vulnerable community members affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Working on our advanced planning for the next 3-6 months. Working with recreation and youth centre staff to get online programming. Working with local essential businesses to provide support as needed. Working with the Province to ensure the provincial state of emergency response addresses local needs. Cross-training staff from other departments to help where they are needed. Regular EOC updates. Weekly Mayor’s video message. Monitoring federal and provincial government and health authority information. Monitoring social media and updating FAQs addressing local issues.
Page 167 of 310 Read more from the EOC
Email sent to: [email protected]
Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, British Columbia | V0N 1G2 | Canada 6049474255 | [email protected]
Anti‑spam policy | Report an abuse | Unsubscribe
Page 168 of 310
April 28, 2020
Kevin Desmond Chief Executive Officer TransLink 400 - 287 Nelson's Court New Westminster, BC V3L 0E7
Re: Suspension of Bowen Island bus routes
Dear Mr. Desmond,
I am writing on behalf of Bowen Island Municipal Council regarding TransLink’s recent announcement that routes 280, 281 and 282 are to be suspended. It has come to our attention today that the exact date for the suspension has been set for May 2, 2020.
I understand that ridership is down across the region due to the COVID-19 pandemic and that continued bus service on some routes is not financially sustainable. We are, however, very concerned that with complete removal of bus service on Bowen Island, some members of our community who rely on public transit will be negatively impacted. These are essential service workers and those with mobility issues who have no other mode of transportation to get to their jobs, to their medical appointments or to get essential groceries and supplies. We know that some with mobility devices rely on the buses equipped with lifts, so a total suspension of bus service would leave them effectively unable to carry on their lives independently. We do not currently have taxi service on Bowen Island.
We are also very disappointed that the date for suspension was determined with no advanced notice to the Municipality or the community, and that we found out about the May 2nd suspension date from a post on social media. We note that the TransLink website is not updated with this date which is four days from now.
Please, we ask that you reconsider the suspension of all bus service on Bowen Island. I would be happy to discuss this at your earliest convenience.
I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Gary Ander Mayor
Page 169 of 310
Bowen Island Municipality Emergency Operations Centre Update # 8 May 1, 2020
Re: EOC Activities Update
The Emergency Operations Centre team has been coordinating Bowen Island Municipality’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. A few new developments have taken place over the past week and they are summarized below.
Mayor Ander’s update to the community on COVID-19
In this week's update, Mayor Ander talks about supporting local businesses, the suspension of local bus service, and the Province’s anticipated plan for re-opening.
Watch Mayor Ander’s video update
COVID-19 testing criteria expanded
Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) is expanding access to COVID-19 testing as the Province of British Columbia moves to the next phase of its COVID-19 testing strategy. Anyone in the VCH region with cold, influenza or COVID-19-like symptoms, however mild, can now be assessed for and get a COVID-19 test. Testing can be done through a primary care provider, walk-in clinic, urgent and primary care centre or community collection centre.
Testing is available at Dr. Schloegl's office on Bowen Island for people who have symptoms. Please call to book an appointment, as walk-ins are not accepted
Read more about testing on the BC CDC website
Suspension of Bowen Island bus service May 2
With ridership down over 80% throughout the region due to COVID-19, TransLink has announced a series of cost-saving measures to preserve Metro Vancouver’s transit system along with a commitment from the Province to ensure near-regular service can be restored by September.
On Bowen Island, the 280 Bluewater, 281 Eagle Cliff and 282 Mt. Gardner bus service will be suspended as of Saturday, May 2, 2020.
We have identified individuals who use mobility devices and need the bus to get to medical appointments. Working with TransLink, we are attempting to come to an arrangement to ensure these people still have transportation for this purpose.
We’re also working with the Bowen Transportation Society to figure out if an interim shuttle can be provided. The situation is still quite fluid but we will continue discussions and help wherever we can.
Page 170 of 310
Statistics Canada wants to know how COVID-19 has affected you
In these difficult times, when everyone's lives are being affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, you can do something important for your family, friends, neighbours and community.
Please take five minutes to tell Statistics Canada about the impact of COVID-19 on your day-to-day life. Your response will provide insight into the challenges Canadians face as the COVID-19 situation evolves in Canada.
Take the survey
Helping local businesses
We’re working with local essential businesses to find innovative ways we can support them during this difficult time. So far, we have provided the following supports:
• Currently assisting Artisan Express to get provincial emergency funding to offset costs associated with their free delivery service. • Helped the General Store manage line ups and physical distancing requirements. • Helped the General Store by providing signage and handouts for their customers to help keep shopping trips safe. • Helped the Building Centre manage traffic for propane purchases. • Helped coordinate child care for essential service workers at the Pharmacy and Bowen Vet. • Procured and delivered hand sanitizer to the grocery stores, Pharmacy, and Bowen Vet.
The Community Economic Development Committee’s Business Engagement Working Group is hosting weekly online sessions to support businesses. These Zoom meetings are called "Bowen Business Meet Ups." Thank you to our CEDC volunteers for coordinating this outreach initiative to help our local businesses through the pandemic.
Hearts for Health
We appreciate the work of our health care workers and essential service workers as they continue to go to work to take care of us. Every evening at 7:00 pm, we cheer on health care workers to show our support, and now you can post this heart on your window to show you care. So show us your hearts, Bowen Island!
Download a printable heart
Frequently asked questions
We are continuously adding Frequently Asked Questions about local issues related to the pandemic on our website. Issues are changing daily and hourly, so we've included the date and time that the information is current. FAQs updated this week are:
• Who should get tested for COVID-19? • Do home-made masks work?
2 Page 171 of 310
More of what we’re working on and ongoing activities
• Working with TransLink and the Bowen Transportation Society to come up with a solution for the suspension of public bus service. • Supporting the Neighbourhood Emergency Response Program (NERP). • Helping the food bank by providing a vehicle and driver to purchase food in town and deliver back to Bowen Island. • Working with the Bowen Island Community Foundation to provide grants in response to COVID- 19. • Supporting local volunteer groups who are offering assistance to vulnerable community members affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. • Working on our advanced planning for the next 3-6 months. • Working with recreation and youth centre staff to get online programming. • Working with local essential businesses to provide support as needed. • Working with the Province to ensure the provincial state of emergency response addresses local needs. • Cross-training staff from other departments to help where they are needed. • Regular EOC updates. • Weekly Mayor’s video message. • Monitoring federal and provincial government and health authority information. • Monitoring social media and updating FAQs addressing local issues.
3 Page 172 of 310
May 4, 2020 VIA E-MAIL: [email protected]
Doug Hanning Regional Manager, Central Mainland Terminal Operations British Columbia Ferry Services Inc. 6750 Keith Road, West Vancouver, BC
Re: Washrooms at Snug Cove terminal
Dear Mr. Hanning,
I am writing on behalf of Bowen Island Municipal Council to request that the washrooms located at the Snug Cove BC Ferries terminal be-reopened as soon as possible. I understand that they were closed in March due to vandalism, and remain closed at this time.
This has led to passengers not having a washroom facility to use as they wait to board the ferry. We have been receiving complaints from local small businesses that ferry passengers are asking to use their facilities, and they cannot sustain the amount of cleaning this requires. The nearest public washrooms are located in Crippen Park, an uphill walk of about 10 minutes. For passengers with young children or with mobility issues, it is not easy or convenient for them to get to.
If the washrooms at the terminal cannot be re-opened, we ask that you provide a temporary facility such as a port-a-potty until such time that it can be re-opened.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Gary Ander Mayor
Page 173 of 310
From: Sophie Idsinga To: BIMBC - Mayor And Council Subject: FW: Washrooms at Snug Cove terminal Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2020 9:18:17 AM
Good morning,
Please see the response below from BC Ferries re: washrooms in Snug Cove.
Sophie Idsinga EOC Information Officer Communications Coordinator Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island BC V0N 1G2 Tel: 604-947-4255 [email protected] www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca
From: Hanning, Doug
Hi Sophie,
Thank you and the Mayor for the letter. We appreciate the municipality’s concern as well as the other businesses in the area. Since you contacted us last week to inform us of the forthcoming letter we reviewed the request and will be reopening the washrooms on a gradual basis starting this week during daylight hours only.
When all the local businesses shut down our washrooms essentially became the public washroom in the area. As a result, we saw an increase traffic to the facilities at a time where we were working hard to keep them sanitized for Covid-19 precautions. Unfortunately, this traffic also resulted vandalism and abuse on several occasions the nature of which caused us great concern. Without employees at the terminal it is a challenge to monitor the facility particularly in hours of darkness. Hopefully, the daylight hours will reduce these incidents.
Regards
Doug Hanning
Regional Manager, Central Mainland Terminal Operations British Columbia Ferry Services Inc. 6750 Keith Road, West Vancouver, BC
Page 174 of 310
Notice: This message, including any attachments, is confidential and may contain information that is privileged or exempt from disclosure. It is intended only for the person to whom it is addressed unless expressly authorized otherwise by the sender. If you are not an authorized recipient, please notify the sender immediately and permanently destroy all copies of this message and any attachments.
P Save our trees! Print this email only if needed!
From: Sophie Idsinga [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: May 04,2020 2:26 PM To: Hanning, Doug Cc: Guenette, Darin Subject: Washrooms at Snug Cove terminal
Dear Mr. Hanning,
Please see the attached correspondence from Mayor Gary Ander, regarding a request for washroom facilities at the Snug Cove terminal.
Thank you,
Sophie Idsinga EOC Information Officer Communications Coordinator Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island BC V0N 1G2 Tel: 604-947-4255 [email protected] www.bowenislandmunicipality.ca
Page 175 of 310
May 5, 2020
Patrick Weiler, MP West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky Country [email protected]
Justin Sturdy, MLA West Vancouver - Sea to Sky [email protected]
Re: Emergency transit operating funding from senior government
Dear Mr. Weiler and Mr. Sturdy,
Bowen Island Municipality joins the TransLink Mayors’ Council on Regional Transportation, other municipal councils and community groups in Metro Vancouver calling for senior governments to provide emergency relief funding to TransLink.
As you know, TransLink has started to implement significant transit service reductions and layoffs as part of a cost reduction plan to reduce its $75 million monthly losses due to an 80% drop in ridership as a result of the COVID-19 crisis (see this page for more details). By mid-May, these service cuts will reduce TransLink’s passenger capacity to just 18% of normal. These cuts will make it difficult for the agency to ramp service back up to support any reopening of the economy in the coming months, potentially crippling the recovery, and will hinder its ability to invest in provincial or national stimulus initiatives to rebuild the economy.
On Bowen Island, these service cuts include suspension of all bus routes, effectively cancelling the availability of public transit in our community. Bowen Island residents have relied on public transit for over 20 years, and this suspension of service deeply impacts some of our residents who have no other mode of transportation.
TransLink’s financial losses are not sustainable, and without emergency funding its decision to cut transit service was unavoidable. However, being forced to cut vital transit service this deeply and widely is not a viable option for our community or this region. TransLink is calling on senior governments to provide relief funding of at least $50 million monthly immediately so it can protect public transit access to essential services and ready the region for economic recovery.
Page 176 of 310
Over 150,000 Metro Vancouver residents continue to use TransLink every week, and 80% of them are using it to access essential services like grocery stores, pharmacies, hospitals. In fact, 43% of current users are using transit to get to their jobs in essential service sectors, including the health care or food-related sectors – these are the people that the rest of us to rely on for everyday survival.
On Bowen Island, though ridership has been low since the pandemic, the people who do ride the bus have no other mode of transportation and rely on public transit to get them where they need to go - to their essential jobs, to their medical appointments and to get essential groceries and supplies. Suspending all public transit effectively stops those people from being able to live their lives independently.
Bowen Island needs good transit service for its residents, some of whom are travelling far from our community to vital jobs that support our entire region. I ask you as our elected representatives to urge federal and provincial governments to provide emergency operating funding for proper transit service in Metro Vancouver and throughout B.C.
Sincerely,
Gary Ander Mayor cc. Right Honourable Just Trudeau, Prime Minister Honourable John Horgan, Premier Honourable Selina Robinson, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing TransLink Mayors’ Council
Page 177 of 310 May 5, 2020
Honourable John Horgan Honourable Claire Trevena Premier Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure [email protected] [email protected]
Honourable Mike Farnworth Honourable Adrian Dix Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Minister of Health [email protected] [email protected]
Mark Collins Jordan Sturdy President and Chief Executive Officer MLA, West Vancouver - Sea to Sky British Columbia Ferry Services Inc. [email protected] [email protected]
Re: Ministerial Order related to BC Ferries and request for restriction of non-essential travel
Dear Premier, Ministers, BC Ferries and MLA Sturdy,
I am writing in regards to Ministerial Order No. M084, Local Authorities and Essential Goods and Supplies (COVID-19). Section 10 relates to British Columbia Ferry Services, and directs that ferry operators ensure priority loading on ferries for vehicles carrying essential goods and supplies, and residents of ferry sailing destinations.
Please advise what procedures are underway to ensure this priority loading, and if none are underway, what procedures will be implemented prior to the upcoming May long weekend, when traffic has historically increased.
I have enclosed a non-exhaustive list of Bowen Island essential services providers as defined within the Province’s list of essential goods and services.
We expect with the upcoming good weather, May long weekend and an anticipated loosening of restrictions to be announced by the Province this week, we will see an increase in travellers coming to Bowen Island for tourism or recreation, despite strong messaging from the Province, the Provincial Health Officer and BC Ferries to avoid all non-essential travel. We are respectfully asking you to enact a Public Health Order prior to the upcoming May long weekend that would restrict long weekend usage (defined as Thursday through Tuesday) to "essential travel only" on the BC Ferry system.
Thank you for your consideration.
Gary Ander Mayor
Page 178 of 310 Bowen Island - Essential Service Providers For a copy of the latest version, or for additions or edits, please email [email protected]
Organziation Name Law Enforcement, Public Safety, First Responders & Emergency Response Personnel Bylaw enforcement Bowen Island Municipality Conservation officers Provincial Ministry FLNRO Emergency management personnel at local, regional, provincial levels, and federal levels, including contracted emergency management personnel North Shore Emergency Mgmt Fire Bowen Island Fire Department Paramedics BC Ambulance Service Park rangers Metro Vancouver - Crippen Park Police RCMP Vulnerable Population Service Providers Businesses, government and non-profits that provide care, food, shelter, social, and support services, and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or otherwise vulnerable individuals including seniors, children, or individuals with disabilities, such as: Lookout Society Child care services for essential workers Children's Centre Doctors, Nurses, Health Care support staff deemed essential Various Family Doctor Dr. Schloegl Foodbanks Bowen Island Food bank In-Home Services Better on Bowen Critical Infrastructure Fuel, petroleum, crude oil and other fuel sources such as heating oil and wood pellets Building Centre Fuel, petroleum, crude oil and other fuel sources such as heating oil and wood pellets Superior Propane Garbage Bowen Waste Gas stations, diesel, propane and heating fuel providers including providers of motor vehicle, aircraft and water/marine fuels, and providers of charging stations for electric vehicles Bowen Fuels Post Office Post Office Transportation Translink Transportation Cormorant Marine Utilities - Phone / Internet Shaw Cable Utilities - Phone / Internet TELUS Utilities - Power BC Hydro
Page 179 of 310 Bowen Island - Essential Service Providers For a copy of the latest version, or for additions or edits, please email [email protected]
Organziation Name Food and Agriculture Service Providers Boarding kennels Dog Ranch / others Boarding kennels Cats Pajamas Cattery Boarding kennels Little Island Dogs Boarding kennels Wagsville Dog Camp Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food Alderwood Farm Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food Artisan Eats Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food Barcelona Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food Bowen Island Pub Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food Bowen Sushi Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food Doc Morgans Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food Rustique Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food Tell Your Friends Café Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food The Snug Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food Tuscany Veterinarians Bowen Vet Retail Cannabis (including producers) Happy Isle Grocery stores General Store Grocery stores Ruddy Potato Hardware / Building Material Stores Bowen Building Centre Liquor General Store Liquor Bowen Island Cold Beer and Wine Other establishments engaged in the retail sale or provision of food Bowen Island Pub Pet or livestock supply Bowen Pet Store Pharmacy Bowen Island Pharmacy Transportation Automotive Leigh Automotive Buses Bowen Transporation Society Buses Translink Delivery Service Artisan Express Delivery Service Bayly Freight Delivery Service FairFreight Delivery Service Bowen Freight Ferries BC Ferries Marine vessels Cormorant Marine Taxis Bowen Taxi Sanitation House Cleaning All Around the House Cleaning Pest exterminators North Shore Pest Detective Portable Toilets Bowen Biffies
Page 180 of 310 Bowen Island - Essential Service Providers For a copy of the latest version, or for additions or edits, please email [email protected]
Organziation Name Communications & Information Technology IT for Governments facilities Sea to Sky IT, radio, cable providers, and telecommunications services TELUS IT, radio, cable providers, and telecommunications services Shaw Newspapers, television, radio, call centres, online news outlets and other media services Undercurrent Financial Institutions Accounting, payroll, and insurance providers Westland Insurance Credit unions First Credit Union Workers who support security and technical operations supporting financial institutions Brinks type trucks Other Non-Health Essential Service Providers All government (local, regional, provincial, federal) functions or services, including where these functions or services are provided by agencies, crown corporations, contractors or service providers, and government owned or leased buildings Various Construction work, construction firms, skilled trades, and professionals, and; construction and light industrial machinery and equipment rental Various Educational institutions—including public and private K-12 schools, and public post secondary institutions—for purposes of facilitating remote learning or performing essential functions, including services that are needed to ensure the safety, security, welfare, integrity and health of the community, property and research and certain operational and contractual activities BICS, IPS, Home School Hotels and places of accommodation, including RV parks and campgrounds Various Plumbers, electricians, elevator maintenance providers, property management services, building systems maintenance and repair technicians, engineers, fire safety and sprinkler systems, and other service providers who provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation, and daily essential operation of residences, commercial buildings, and ski area infrastructure and facilities Various
Page 181 of 310 FireHall.net Incident Summary Report Type Count BURNING COMPLAINT 1 MISCELLANEOUS 1 RESIDENTIAL ALARMS 1 TRAFFIC INCIDENT-PINNED (TRAPPED) 1 VEHICLE FIRE - CAR/TRK/MC/LNMW 1 WIRES DOWN 1
Page 182 of 310
British Columbia Ferry Services Inc. The Atrium Suite 500, 1321 Blanshard St. Victoria, BC V8W 0B7 Tel (250) 381-1401 Fax (250) 360-2093 April 23, 2020 bcferries.com His Worship Gary Ander Mayor, Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2
Dear Mr. Mayor,
Thank you for writing regarding the Medical Assured Loading (MAL) program.
The intent of this program is to enable patients who need to travel for medical purposes to avoid long waits at the terminal when doing so would cause additional risk to their health. We have seen a large increase in the reliance on this program and have established processes to respond to the growing demand and ensure it remains available to those who would benefit from it.
Once a healthcare provider determines that a patient would benefit from MAL, they must complete the request form provided by BC Ferries. Once received, requests are typically processed within one to two business days, though it can take up to five days.
Time-sensitive requests receive priority and procedures exist to accommodate emergency or weekend requests. The system works well and ensures those patients who require MAL receive it. Delays in this process can occur, typically when we receive incomplete information and we are required to contact the medical office to validate.
On arrival at the terminal, patients need to present a paper copy of the MAL letter along with their completed travel assistance program form provided by the Ministry of Health. The expectation is that patients communicate with their healthcare providers to ensure they have a copy of the letter if there is not sufficient time to receive one by mail.
During the Queen of Capilano refit, from January 6 through February 20, 2020, the smaller Bowen Queen provided service to and from Bowen Island. Naturally, there was concern from customers who experienced, or were worried that they would experience, sailing waits during this time. We were aware of this and worked with clinics submitting requests to ensure they had our form and knew our procedures.
During this time, we received some incomplete requests and some patients contacted us directly to organize MAL travel. In response, we increased our outreach to clinics to ensure there is a fulsome understanding of the process and requirements. Additionally, we reminded patients who contacted us for this purpose to have their healthcare providers get in touch with us directly. Despite these challenges, we maintained our commitment to return all complete requests prior to patient travel, as indicated on the request form.
I appreciate the vital link the ferry provides, especially for medical purposes. The MAL program addresses the concerns of those most vulnerable to long waits and I am confident that working together, we can continue to offer this important enhancement to the travel assistance program offered through the Ministry of Health.
Yours sincerely,
Original signed by
Brian Anderson Vice President, Strategy & Community Engagement Page 183 of 310
April 29th, 2020
Mayor Gary Ander 981 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 Via email: [email protected]; [email protected]
Dear Mayor Ander:
Thank you for your letter regarding the suspension of the 280, 281, and 282. I appreciate your continued close attention to bus service in your community. The fact that Bowen is a small community with little access to other options makes these suspensions even more difficult to make.
As you have most likely read in the news and our recent communications, TransLink is losing $75 million per month with ridership down by 83%. This rate of financial loss is not sustainable, so we have had to make cost-saving measures while still providing transit services for essential workers. We know these changes can have significant impacts on residents throughout the region, whether it is to travel to work or buy groceries or attend a doctor’s appointment.
TransLink has prioritized service to routes serving hospitals and other health facilities. Routes selected for suspension either duplicate other routes or are in low ridership areas. For context, in early-April, Bowen routes had less than 20 boardings per weekday, which is about 1 boarding per trip.
The May 2nd date is a result of this work moving extremely quickly. We regret that this date is only a few days away and I understand that it is a surprise. Our press release on April 20th noted that the Bowen routes would be suspended in early May, as at that time, we did not have confirmation when our contractors could adjust their operations. West Vancouver Transit routes will also change on May 2nd, while the CMBC operations will change on May 18th. Please note that there will be service reductions across the entire network, which includes bus routes that serve Horseshoe Bay.
Also, I understand there is an individual who uses transit to access dialysis off the island. We are working with the Bowen Island Emergency Center regarding a solution. My staff can communicate that solution as soon as one is determined.
Thank you again for your letter and for conveying the impact this will have on your constituents. We continue to work closely with the Province to ensure that funding is available to allow TransLink to return to near-regular operations in time for back-to-school in September. I can assure you we do not take these changes lightly and hope that our discussions with the Province continue in the right direction.
Sincerely,
Kevin Desmond Chief Executive Officer
Page 184 of 310
April 28, 2020
Kevin Desmond Chief Executive Officer TransLink 400 - 287 Nelson's Court New Westminster, BC V3L 0E7
Re: Suspension of Bowen Island bus routes
Dear Mr. Desmond,
I am writing on behalf of Bowen Island Municipal Council regarding TransLink’s recent announcement that routes 280, 281 and 282 are to be suspended. It has come to our attention today that the exact date for the suspension has been set for May 2, 2020.
I understand that ridership is down across the region due to the COVID-19 pandemic and that continued bus service on some routes is not financially sustainable. We are, however, very concerned that with complete removal of bus service on Bowen Island, some members of our community who rely on public transit will be negatively impacted. These are essential service workers and those with mobility issues who have no other mode of transportation to get to their jobs, to their medical appointments or to get essential groceries and supplies. We know that some with mobility devices rely on the buses equipped with lifts, so a total suspension of bus service would leave them effectively unable to carry on their lives independently. We do not currently have taxi service on Bowen Island.
We are also very disappointed that the date for suspension was determined with no advanced notice to the Municipality or the community, and that we found out about the May 2nd suspension date from a post on social media. We note that the TransLink website is not updated with this date which is four days from now.
Please, we ask that you reconsider the suspension of all bus service on Bowen Island. I would be happy to discuss this at your earliest convenience.
I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Gary Ander Mayor
Page 185 of 310
From: David Hocking To: BIMBC - Mayor And Council Subject: Fw: COVID-19 Weekly Update – April 24th Date: Monday, April 27, 2020 8:46:05 AM Attachments: 90b37fc8-ce0a-42c2-80f1-1246dcb177fd.png d90d99d7-cef7-468c-8e52-83106134165a.png
From: Jerry Dobrovolny
April 24, 2020 Dear Metro Vancouver Directors, I would like to thank you all for your thoughtful questions, guidance, and direction at today’s Board meeting. I know this is a challenging time, and that you have many competing demands. I also understand that the virtual meetings can be more difficult. Your governance and support during this time is very much appreciated by staff. Your leadership is seen by all at Metro Vancouver, and by our residents across the region. We look forward to working with all of you closely, and very early on, for the budget preparation for 2021 and beyond; we fully recognize the world has changed, the economy has changed, and our plans need to change. We are mindful that while infrastructure projects will be a large part of the rebuilding of the economy, and we anticipate that there may be large-scale investments in infrastructure by both provincial and federal governments, that projects need to be both "shovel ready" and "shovel worthy". My most recent update to staff is attached below. Thank you for your continued efforts in supporting Metro Vancouver and our many respective communities. Together we make our region strong. Sincerely,
Page 186 of 310 Jerry W. Dobrovolny, P.Eng., MBA Commissioner/Chief Administrative Officer Metro Vancouver
From: Jerry Dobrovolny To: GVRDAll Subject: COVID-19 Weekly Update – April 24th Date: Friday, April 24, 2020 4:00 PM
Dear Staff, I hope you are all well. I personally found this to be a tougher week, as we hear more about experiences at other organizations, both public and private sector, and the significant challenges that they are facing. I mentioned in my email last week about how all experiences are valid. I do like to think that I take most things in stride, and I thought I was doing pretty well with everything that is going on. But I think my subconscious is trying to tell me otherwise. I’ve been having some weird dreams, which I’ve since heard is normal in a global event like a pandemic. (Trust me, I know how much people like hearing about people’s dreams. You can feel free to skip over this part.) I figured it was just a couple, but my wife keeps poking me to wake me up in the middle of the night. If this continues, I think she’s going to move me into the basement! Next I’ll be rooming with the guinea pigs… COVID-19 TASK Force and Board Meeting On Wednesday of this week we had the second COVID-19 Task Force meeting, with the mayors and leaders from our 23 member jurisdictions, and today was our monthly Board meeting with our 40 Directors representing the region. In the COVID-19 Task Force meeting, I provided a presentation and overview of our continued operations during this time and how we can work together to guide our region forward. Heather McNell, our GM of Regional Planning and Housing Services, also provided an information update on how COVID-19 is impacting many aspects of our region, including the economy, housing, transit, and more, with a goal to support informed decision-making as we move forward. I reiterated the importance of the critical work we do and how our staff and our core operations are busier than ever as our demand for essential services remains high. I also gave an overview of ways that MV can partner to support an innovative “early warning system” to better understand COVID-19 in wastewater. In partnership with UBC and BC Centre of Disease Control, we can measure COVID RNA concentrations to track community infection rates and locations (aggregate, large-scale data to protect privacy). This would have no additional health and safety implications for our staff given our regular and COVID-19 safety protocols. At the Board meeting, our GM of Project Delivery, Cheryl Nelms and I gave an overview on Capital Projects and Project Delivery, including the challenges and our best practices response, and I gave an additional update on our response to COVID-19. There was good discussion about the need to be mindful of costs for future budget periods, as a result of current economic challenges. The Task Force confirmed the need for regional information-sharing to prepare for conversations with provincial and federal governments about next steps, and how we can come together as a region while also respecting the autonomy and authority of each member jurisdiction. The Board meeting today also discussed the need for collaboration in supporting current efforts and rebuilding once we are through this crisis. The Provincial Health Officer is our Guide I’ve noted before that we are receiving our direction and our guidance from our Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry, and we will follow her leadership throughout this crisis. Some of you may have seen that I’ve even started wearing small buttons that we’ve made in-house; one of them says, “If you can read this, Dr. Bonnie says you’re too close!” I do recognize that there is some confusion about what exactly the provincial directions for COVID-19 have been, particularly as some jurisdictions have been taking differing approaches based on their unique circumstances. Some of the public and staff are wondering if they’re meant to stay at home at all times. Please note, to date, in B.C., we have not been advised to shelter in
Page 187 of 310 place. The steps that we have taken as an organization are to keep us safe as we continue operations. As noted previously, my direction has been clear. We will keep our employees safe and adjust operations as necessary to make it so. The Provincial Order prohibiting the gathering of 50 or more people in public spaces remain in effect; Metro Vancouver has put in place safety protocols for the safety of our staff. Other key messaging includes: - Individuals should maintain 2 metres distance apart where possible. - The focus remains on regular handwashing and not touching your face. - Anyone who is experiencing new respiratory symptoms, including fever, cough, sneezing or sore throat should be isolating and thereby avoiding public outdoor spaces. A list of the various Provincial Orders and Guidance can be found here. It’s very important we continue to adhere to physical distancing and be vigilant, and that we recognize that with the additional safety protocols put in place at Metro Vancouver and across the region (on transit, at essential stores, etc.,) it is safe to come to work as required, visit the grocery store for essentials, walk on a park trail, be with your family, etc. Metro Vancouver Staffing I hope to have an update to you on Workforce Adjustment Agreements with each union shortly; I realize it’s been a few weeks since this effort began. It remains a shared priority and common goal to support our staff to address the difficult situation presented by COVID-19. I’ve been very clear throughout that my goal is to keep staff working at Metro Vancouver. I will do everything I can to make this happen. This means, however, that we may have to make difficult decisions in future weeks – around shifting schedules, for example, to ensure people are appropriately physically distanced or that work is available to all. This can also include moving people from areas where there is less work to areas where there is lots of work, or hiring for immediate impact/currently essential roles and holding off hiring for roles that we don’t require immediately, and supporting current staff in taking on those duties. We will all need to pull together to support this effort to keep our staff working. It’s also going to be more important than ever that we remain kind to each other. These are difficult times and we still have a ways to go; we need to take care of ourselves and take care of each other. How we support, respect and treat each other, is what helps define us, cement our character and our humanity. This kindness and generosity of spirit is what we will all look back on and be forever proud of. Staff Health and Staff Support Staff absences remain slightly higher than the same time period last year. I’m happy to report that we have no updates on any new/confirmed COVID-19 cases amongst MV staff. Our Benefits team in HR has put together a helpful document for staff on COVID-19 and Your Benefits. This can be accessed via an Intranet News article here. Staff Communications Intranet News has released a new article on the work being done in our LSCR here. I do enjoy seeing your stories and comments! If you have more story ideas, please contact Internal Communications. Internal Communications has advised they would be happy to accept additional questions for me, for my interview (likely early next week). Please send any questions for me through to [email protected]. I look forward to hearing from you. As I close I’d just like to say, rain or sun, try and find some time to get outside this weekend - we live in an incredible region, and you are all part of what makes it great. Together we make our region strong. Thank you, Jerry Jerry W. Dobrovolny, P.Eng., MBA Commissioner/Chief Administrative Officer
Website
Page 188 of 310 Email
Copyright © 2020 Metro Vancouver. All rights reserved.
Page 189 of 310 Janet Esseiva
From: Metro Vancouver Chair
Metro Vancouver Chair Update ‐ April 2020
In this Issue ISSUE 86, April 2020
1. Coquitlam Intake No. 2 Councillor Ander, on the way 2. Open burning The COVID‐19 pandemic situation continues to restrictions in effect evolve rapidly, and I want to recognize the 3. Helping hands create tremendous leadership that you all have shown important fish habitat during this crisis. at Kanaka Creek Regional Park In order to help our region, and respond to this 4. Metro Vancouver Solid health crisis both now and post‐pandemic, earlier Waste Facilities ‐ this month, we formed the Metro Vancouver COVID‐19 Update COVID‐19 Response Task Force. Our goal is straightforward – to ensure the continued delivery
1 Page 190 of 310 5. Metro Vancouver of regional services and to work together to Using Regenerative address the region’s long‐term economic recovery Approach to Design once this health threat subsides. New Iona Island Wastewater Make no mistake, although this pandemic has only Treatment Plant impacted our region for about a month, the long‐ 6. Don’t flush wipes or term effects will last for years. Residents have lost other Unflushables their jobs, businesses have been forced to close 7. Metro Vancouver and municipalities have lost significant revenue Videos sources. It is still too early to predict when the crisis might end but we are prepared to work
collectively to move forward as a strong regional force to get the region’s economy back on track.
Right now, the safety of our staff and partners is paramount and we continue to closely follow the advice of the Provincial Health Officer. Metro Vancouver’s staff are working hard to ensure that we maintain critical service levels, including the delivery of drinking water and the management of liquid and solid waste.
We are also keeping as many of our Regional Parks open as possible as we realize they provide a valuable outlet for residents to enjoy the outdoors and help them take care of their physical and mental health during this unprecedented crisis.
In the meantime, we are continuing to provide core services while planning for the Coquitlam Intake No. 2 supply tunnel, expanding fish habitat at Kanaka Creek and designing the new Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant using a ‘Regenerative Approach,’ all of which you can read more about in this edition of the Chair Update.
2 Page 191 of 310 Unfortunately, under the current circumstances, we’ve had the make the difficult but necessary decision to cancel the previously scheduled May 23rd Council of Councils.
As Dr. Bonnie Henry says – Be Calm, Be Kind, Be Safe!
Together we make our region strong.
Sav Dhaliwal Chair, Metro Vancouver Board [email protected]
Coquitlam Intake No. 2 on the way
Metro Vancouver has started planning for a new Coquitlam Intake No. 2 water supply tunnel, which will provide access to additional source water storage by the mid‐2030s –
3 Page 192 of 310 and help to ensure the continued supply and delivery of water to meet the region’s needs over the next 100 years.
Metro Vancouver residents have steadily reduced their individual water use over the past two decades, largely due to water conservation and efficiency measures. However, as the region’s population continues to grow, the region’s total water use is projected to increase.
The Coquitlam Intake project, which includes water treatment facilities, will allow Metro Vancouver to double the capacity of the Coquitlam Water Supply by accessing more water from Coquitlam Lake, which already provides a third of the region’s drinking water.
The increased storage, along with continued water conservation efforts, will ensure the water system remains resilient to potential hazards and continues to supply and deliver water to meet the needs of the region’s growing population and respond to the impacts of a changing climate. If demands on the system are lower than current projections when the Coquitlam Intake No. 2 is commissioned, this could allow the deferral of the next major water supply expansion project by several decades.
Open burning restrictions in effect
4 Page 193 of 310 Metro Vancouver has restricted open burning of vegetative debris and is encouraging residents to reduce the use of their wood‐burning fireplaces, during the novel coronavirus (COVID‐19) outbreak.
Research by the BC Center for Disease Control and others has shown that exposure to air pollution can increase susceptibility to respiratory viral infections like COVID‐19 by decreasing immune function. This means deterioration in air quality may lead to more – or more severe – cases of COVID‐19 infections.
Smoke emissions from open‐air burning of vegetative debris contain fine particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, and other harmful compounds. Metro Vancouver currently authorizes emissions from open‐air burning of vegetative debris through site‐specific approvals.
Reducing air pollution from combustion sources such as open burning and vehicles will reduce the public’s exposure to air emissions that may make people more susceptible to respiratory ailments. The open burning restrictions remain in effect until June 15, 2020.
5 Page 194 of 310 Meanwhile, the Metro Vancouver Board has approved a new bylaw to manage residential wood burning. Wood smoke from residential indoor wood burning is the most significant source of PM2.5 emissions in the region, contributing more than a quarter of the total annual PM2.5 emissions, and is also the second top source of toxic air pollutants. Exposure to wood smoke is of particular concern in densely populated urban areas, due to the proximity of a single smoking chimney to multiple neighbours.
Improvements to overall air quality may help to protect the whole population from COVID‐ 19 and its potentially severe effects.
Helping hands create important fish habitat at Kanaka Creek Regional Park
6 Page 195 of 310 Young salmon and trout now have more room to grow at Kanaka Creek Regional Park in Maple Ridge, thanks to a habitat enhancement project – and helping hands from the community.
The habitat expansion project began in 2015, after Metro Vancouver purchased a 4.7‐ hectare parcel of land that protects Thornvale Creek – a tributary of Kanaka Creek. The property contained three artificial ponds, offering the potential to provide shaded still pools for juvenile fish. In order to expand the fish habitat, parks biologists designed a project that would:
Install an intake to connect the creek to the ponds Install channels to connect all the ponds Construct a small hand‐built fish ladder to let juvenile fish access the ponds Establish more than 800 native plants around the ponds to provide shade for fish and habitat for wildlife
By the time students from Take a Hike Foundation had tamped the dirt around the last plant, the area had been transformed into 800‐square metres of prime overwintering habitat for salmon and trout, as well as other species including salamanders and frogs.
This past fall, when local students and Regional Parks staff returned to the ponds, they found both coho salmon and cutthroat trout – the best measure of success one could hope for.
The project was supported by Pacific Parklands Foundation, with a grant from the Pacific Salmon Foundation.
Metro Vancouver Solid Waste Facilities ‐ COVID‐19 Update
7 Page 196 of 310 Metro Vancouver is closely monitoring COVID‐19 developments and taking steps to maintain service while keeping staff and the public safe. To date, Metro Vancouver transfer stations and recycling depots have remained open during regular working hours, with some operational changes.
We are asking customers to delay visits unless absolutely necessary and store dry recyclables and other items at home temporarily. Also, customers should not visit our facilities if they are sick or caring for someone who is.
At this time, Metro Vancouver transfer stations no longer accept cash but several alternative tap payment options are available onsite. In addition, the recycling depots are no longer accepting white expanded polystyrene (styrofoam).
New disposal requirements for Personal Hygiene items are now in place:
Do not place used personal hygiene or cleaning products in the green bin. Put all personal hygiene products, used tissues, sanitary wipes (even those labeled compostable or flushable), paper towels, napkins, cleaning cloths, face masks, gloves, and similar items in plastic bags and place securely in
8 Page 197 of 310 your garbage bin. Double bag these items if you are sick or caring for someone who is sick.
There are many avenues available for the public to stay updated about any changes at the transfer stations and recycling depots, including a dedicated Solid Waste COVID‐19 webpage. Updates are also emailed out to the subscribers of the Solid Waste mailing list. Customers can also call the Transfer Station hotline to get the latest information at 604‐ 681‐5600.
A new text message notification system is now being used to keep subscribers updated on Solid Waste facility operations. To sign up for real‐time Metro Vancouver Solid Waste facilities temporary closure or operational change notices via SMS (text notification), text 512‐518‐5794 with the message JOIN 1566.
Metro Vancouver Using Regenerative Approach to Design New Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant
9 Page 198 of 310 A new Iona Island Wastewater Treatment Plant in Richmond is being designed using a regenerative approach.
Iona Island is in the Fraser River estuary where the river meets the sea, next to Vancouver International Airport and Iona Beach Regional Park, and across the river from the Musqueam Indian Band’s primary reserve.
The new plant will improve the level of treatment to protect water quality, and meet federal and provincial regulations. The project team, made up of Metro Vancouver staff and consultants, is also planning for other community and environmental benefits. This is where a regenerative approach comes in – recognizing that the plant is part of a much larger system, including visitors to Iona Beach Regional Park, adjacent communities and businesses, and millions of migrating Pacific salmon and birds.
A regenerative approach asks not only how the new plant can minimize its impact but also how it can make a net positive contribution to our communities and the surrounding ecosystems. It uses systems with an aim to incorporate ideas such as how energy beyond the needs of the plant could be used, if fish and wildlife habitat can be increased, and how to seamlessly integrate the plant, park and community.
10 Page 199 of 310 Some of the proposed opportunities for the new plant include:
Generating renewable, low carbon energy for the community, Creating, enhancing and protecting fish and wildlife habitat, and Adding more trails, boardwalks and viewing platforms to Iona Beach Regional Park.
Metro Vancouver is currently in the Project Definition Phase for the project and planning the integration of the plant with the park and community, and developing habitat enhancement opportunities is also underway.
Don’t flush wipes or other Unflushables
Metro Vancouver’s Unflushables campaign is back to remind residents to flush only pee, poo and toilet paper. Flushing anything else can contribute to sewer clogs and overflows.
Now in its fourth year, the campaign targets seven items that cause the most problems for our wastewater system: wipes, paper towel, tampons and applicators, condoms, floss, hair
11 Page 200 of 310 and medications. Medications can be returned to a pharmacy; all other items should be put in the garbage.
The campaign will run from March to June, launching early to respond to the current increased use of wipes during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Campaign messaging will be seen on YouTube and social media, Google search, online articles and television. Remember, even if they say they’re flushable, wipes go in the garbage.
More information: unflushables.ca
Metro Vancouver Videos
Second Narrows Water Supply Tunnel Divers
12 Page 201 of 310 When you have to work underwater, and underground, at the same time, there's no room for error. See how divers and their support team get the job done safely and smoothly on the Second Narrows Water Supply Tunnel project.
New Westminster Animal Shelter
The City of New Westminster invited the public to an opening celebration of their new shelter location. Not only is the new facility larger in size, it was designed to achieve the highest level of sustainability features. (Feb 1, 2020)
13 Page 202 of 310 Diving into Sewer Repair
It’s late at night and sewer flows are low, so this specialized diving team is heading into a Metro Vancouver sewer main to locate cracks. It’s the first step in a new repair technique that takes place above ground, without excavations. It is extremely cost effective and is a first in North America.
14 Page 203 of 310 Hydrothermal Processing biocrude oil for low carbon fuel
Every year billions of litres of wastewater are processed worldwide. The byproduct of this treatment is seen as waste, but a hydrothermal processing pilot project at Annacis Island Wastewater Treatment Plant converts wastewater biomass from treatment plants into biocrude oil that can be refined to a low carbon transportation fuel. (2019)
Copyright © 2020 Metro Vancouver. All rights reserved.
15 Page 204 of 310 From: David Hocking Sent: Friday, May 1, 2020 3:27 PM To: BIMBC - Mayor And Council Subject: Fw: COVID-19 Weekly Update – May 1st
From: Jerry Dobrovolny
Metro Vancouver
May 1, 2020 Dear Metro Vancouver Directors, Today marks a new month, and our region has been in a state of emergency for some time now. This last week has marked what is hopefully the start of a turning point, as our country starts to think about the transition to ‘what’s next’. Several provinces are releasing recovery plans. As an organization, we are planning for the transition to recovery for our organization and region. There has been lots of discussion across the nation about a ‘return to normal’. Several of you have noted that we may want and need to do better than that, as the world has changed, and we have changed. I look forward to working with you on your ideas on this – I’ve heard from some of you about how we can lead further on climate change and air quality, effectively tackle the housing crisis, support our region
1 Page 205 of 310 on rebuilding a healthy, robust economy that works in tune with the environment, not against it. This virus is a global event that has created much devastation; it can also be, eventually, an opportunity to rebuild in a new way. I’ve also heard clearly there are many uncertainties and concerns about financial recovery. We have scheduled June 5th for a dedicated meeting to discuss the 2021 Budget and our Five‐Year Financial Plan and receive input from the Board, to guide us moving forward. I realize that over the next few months, a lot may happen, and this will be a cautious, sometimes turbulent recovery. My hope is that we are now through the most difficult stages of this global pandemic. The next phases will present their own challenges, but with your leadership, and our concerted effort, we will get through them together. Together we make our region strong. Jerry
Jerry W. Dobrovolny, P.Eng., MBA Commissioner/Chief Administrative Officer Metro Vancouver
From: Jerry Dobrovolny To: GVRDAll Subject: COVID‐19 Weekly Update – May 1st Date: Friday, May 1, 2020 2:20 PM
Dear Staff, I hope you are all well. Here are a few updates for this week. What's Next Today marks a new month, and it feels like we’re entering a new phase in this crisis, when we’re starting to think and plan for moving forward. We have been in a state of emergency for some time now, and many of you will have heard news reports of what is hopefully a turning point, as both the public and private sectors start to think about the transition to ‘what’s next’. Several provinces have released recovery plans, our BC Public Health Officer has indicated advanced planning is underway for ours, and as an organization, and a region, we need to start thinking and planning for the transition to recovery.
2 Page 206 of 310 There has also been lots of discussion about a ‘return to normal’ and we have begun conversations about what we want this to look like. The world has changed, and we have changed. What should our new normal be? We are already an incredible region. But perhaps we can be even better. We can lead the world on our approach to managing climate change and air quality. Effectively tackle the housing crisis. Be known worldwide for how our region rebuilds a healthy, robust economy that works in tune with the environment, not against it. This virus is a global event that has created much devastation. It can also be, eventually, an opportunity to rebuild in a new way. I realize that over the next few months, a lot may happen and change. The path out of a difficult time is never straight forward. Flattening the curve will no doubt require an extended period of time until we are on the other side. This will be a cautious, and likely turbulent recovery. But it will be a recovery, this will end, and it’s never too soon to start planning for what’s next. Just as we planned for an emergency such as this one, it’s vital that we also plan for recovery, including the period of transition I would expect over the next few months. More to come on this, as we get underway. Our Guidance – The Provincial Health Officer I’ve been clear throughout this crisis that the Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry, is our guide. I also want to be clear about what Dr. Henry is and isn’t saying. Dr. Henry is not advising that staff shouldn’t go to work. Dr. Henry is requesting that we practice physical distancing, strong personal health hygiene, and be mindful of safety protocols. The good news is that we’re essential services and the region needs us. The other good news, is again, that we’re essential services. Many of our staff need to be on site to perform this vital work, and have shown up, for the region, and for one another, each and every shift. And while it is operationally feasible for a large number of staff to work remotely for a period of time, it’s also critical that staff are connected to their work sites and that we have a balance to ensure we are maintaining the connection, camaraderie and culture that we have as an organization. While communication platforms such as Zoom allow us to maintain some of this, the numerous micro interactions and connections we have while working onsite cannot be replaced by video‐conferencing. These interactions and connections are also critical to our efficiency, effectiveness and work community. While we are forever changed as an organization (see my interview with internal communications for more on this), I don’t believe in absolutes. A balance is healthy, and for those working from home on a full‐time basis, we need to start the transition to a hybrid of working remotely and working on site, one or two days on site per week at a minimum. We have adjusted operations, established multiple safety protocols, and will continue to do so until such time as we hear otherwise. Several of our municipal partners have maintained a 1 or 2 days a week physical presence on site throughout, and as the rate of infection has slowed, it is time for us to do the same. Staff presence at Head Office will be
3 Page 207 of 310 staggered and gradual to ensure physical distancing. For staff that have unique situations, we will consider these on a case by case basis and adjust where possible. Again, more to come on this. Staff Health I remain very happy to report that staff absences continue to be on track as the same period last year, and there are no new confirmed cases of COVID‐19 amongst MV staff. We are through the initial, difficult stages of this global pandemic. The next phases may present their own challenges, but I know that we can get through them, together. Together we make our region strong. Please take care of yourself, and each other. Thank you, Jerry Jerry W. Dobrovolny, P.Eng., MBA Commissioner/Chief Administrative Officer
Website Email
Copyright © 2020 Metro Vancouver. All rights reserved.
4 Page 208 of 310 From: Union of BC Municipalities
Having trouble viewing this e-mail? Click here
April 23, 2020
UBCM endorses call for Federal support
UBCM is adding its voice in support of a report by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) indicating the need for a minimum of $10 billion in emergency operating funding, with an additional $2.4 billion for communities with transit systems, to be provided through a direct federal allocation to local governments. Local governments across the province are facing financial pressure due to a significant loss of variable revenues following on the implementation of COVID - 19 public health orders. Read more Follow us on Twitter UBCM Group Benefits Plan marketing results
UBCM is pleased to announce that Pacific Blue Cross (PBC) has been chosen as the preferred proponent in the UBCM Group Benefits Plan Marketing Review. The continuation of our longstanding relationship builds on 36 years of valued partnership and collaborative efforts in delivering benefits to our member local governments and affiliated associations. While the carrier isn't changing, the way we work together to serve our members' needs will be. Read more
© Copyright Union of British Columbia Municipalities 2019
Union of BC Municipalities, 60 - 10551 Shellbridge Way, Richmond, BC V6X 2W9 Canada
SafeUnsubscribe™ [email protected] Forward this email | Update Profile | About our service provider
Sent by [email protected] in collaboration with
1 Page 209 of 310 Try email marketing for free today!
2 Page 210 of 310 From: Union of BC Municipalities
Having trouble viewing this e-mail? Click here
Funding to Improve Rural Connectivity April 27, 2020
The $50-million Connecting British Columbia program now includes a funding stream to help internet service providers with immediate network equipment upgrades to rapidly improve capacity and internet speeds in underserved communities throughout the province. Connecting British Columbia's COVID-19 response funding will help internet service providers (ISPs) to make immediate upgrades to their networks. Read more
Additional Supports for Vulnerable People During Follow us on
COVID-19 Twitter
The Province has announced decampment plans to transition people living in major homeless camps in Vancouver and Victoria into temporary accommodations during the COVID-19 crisis. This builds on additional measures undertaken by BC Housing, non-profits, health authorities, local governments and others to secure shelter for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness in communities across the Province. Read more
Timber King Supports BC FireSmart Campaign
Like many British Columbians, Timber Kings' Bryan Reid Sr. experienced the province's 2017 and 2018 wildfire seasons up close and personal. Now he is helping get the FireSmart message out in a new social media campaign, featuring videos and helpful web-based resources. You can help promote
Bryan's Top 3 FireSmart Tips through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Tree Planting to Proceed Under Strict Guidelines On April 23, 2020, the Provincial Health Officer released guidelines to reduce and mitigate the risks of COVID-19 for all tree planters in response to forestry and silviculture being defined as essential services. Read more
ICBC Changes During COVID-19 Pandemic
ICBC has implemented some changes to help customers manage the financial impacts of COVID-19. Read more
© Copyright Union of British Columbia Municipalities 2019
1 Page 211 of 310 Union of BC Municipalities, 60 - 10551 Shellbridge Way, Richmond, BC V6X 2W9 Canada
SafeUnsubscribe™ [email protected] Forward this email | Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by [email protected] in collaboration with
Try email marketing for free today!
2 Page 212 of 310 From: Union of BC Municipalities
Having trouble viewing this e-mail? Click here
Planning for the 2020 UBCM Convention April 30, 2020
COVID-19 has required that British Columbians collectively re-think nearly every aspect of our lives. At UBCM, this process of rethinking includes developing contingency plans for hosting the 2020 UBCM Convention.
At this point there are many unanswered questions with regard to the health orders that will be in place come September. We want to assure our members that we have begun the process of weighing other options to help you connect and collectively identify the top issues facing B.C.'s communities. Follow us on Planning for each Convention is a year-round process, so considerable work has Twitter been undertaken for the 2020 Convention, slated to be held at the Victoria Conference Centre, September 21-25. While this work will continue, we will also develop a virtual Convention concept to provide a contingency in the event that an in-person Convention is prohibited or unfeasible. We are very appreciative of the support and the interest that has been offered by the City of Victoria, our sponsors and others to ensure this year's Convention is the best possible in consideration of provincial health orders.
UBCM recognizes that this is a time of unusual financial challenge for B.C.'s local governments. The 2020 Convention will deliver quality programming while facilitating member direction and provincial engagement in a cost-effective format. We will also revisit our established registration deadlines and cancellation policies to take into account the present uncertainty.
We will provide a more detailed update on our approach following the May
UBCM Executive meeting.
© Copyright Union of British Columbia Municipalities 2019
Union of BC Municipalities, 60 - 10551 Shellbridge Way, Richmond, BC V6X 2W9 Canada
SafeUnsubscribe™ [email protected] Forward this email | Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by [email protected] in collaboration with
1 Page 213 of 310
Try email marketing for free today!
2 Page 214 of 310 Janet Esseiva
From: Union of BC Municipalities
Having trouble viewing this e-mail? Click here
Electronic public hearings allowed during May 4, 2020 pandemic The Province has issued a ministerial order that allows local governments to hold public hearings electronically during the current provincial state of emergency. Each local government will need to determine which electronic method works best for its public hearings. This decision to expand the authorities given to local governments under the Emergency Program Act was enacted by the Province repealing and replacing Ministerial Order M083 with M139. Read more
Affordable Housing Webinar Follow us on Twitter BC Housing is offering a 2-hour webinar on June 23, 2020 entitled Building Knowledge and Capacity for Affordable Housing in B.C. Communities. The webinar will offer perspectives on the unique issues and needs of small communities drawn from research and interviews with local governments, developers, builders and non-profit organizations.
© Copyright Union of British Columbia Municipalities 2019
1 Page 215 of 310 Union of BC Municipalities, 60 - 10551 Shellbridge Way, Richmond, BC V6X 2W9 Canada
SafeUnsubscribe™ [email protected] Forward this email | Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by [email protected] in collaboration with
Try email marketing for free today!
2 Page 216 of 310 From: Islands Trust To: Hope Dallas Subject: NEWS RELEASE: Trust Council Reduces 2020/21 Budget Date: Wednesday, April 22, 2020 12:47:39 PM
Can't read this email? Click here to view it online. Send to a Friend
22 - April - 2020 NEWS RELEASE Preserving Island Communities, Culture and Environment it_masthead2.jpg
Trust Council Reduces 2020/21 Budget
NEWS RELEASE
Lekwungen, METULIYE/Victoria, BC—In response to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on islanders and island communities, the Islands Trust Council held its first-ever electronic meeting to re-consider its 2020/21 budget.
"The COVID-19 pandemic has created personal and financial challenges for many islanders,” shared Peter Luckham, Chair of the Islands Trust Council, “The world has changed dramatically since we first approved a 2020/21 budget in mid-March. Trustees wanted to help, so we held a special Trust Council meeting to discuss how we could reduce taxes. After debating options, Trust Council voted to approve a reduced budget that means an 8.1% decrease in the tax requisition to Bowen Island Municipality and an average 0% general property tax increase for property owners in local trust areas.”
The budget is now $8.2 million. It was amended by reducing meeting expenses, staff and trustee travel and training, and choosing to not hire a co-op student this year due to our current work at home measures.
Budget reductions have not changed Trust Council’s commitment to climate action. During the pandemic, staff have been working from home. Staff continue to process development applications and referrals, manage the Islands Trust Conservancy’s protected areas and develop Strategic Plan projects, including:
Creation of a regional freshwater strategy. Review of foreshore policies and bylaws, and development of a model policy. Development of climate change, demographic, and environmental indicator data sets.
Page 217 of 310 Continuation of Coastal Douglas-fir protection work by select local trust committees. Development and implementation of a climate change-focused stewardship education program. Mapping the extent of eelgrass throughout the Trust Area. Continuation of the Policy Statement Amendment Project, which includes consideration of climate change-related policies.
In 2020/21, the Islands Trust budget will be funded by:
Property tax revenue from local trust areas: $6,783,140. Property tax revenues from Bowen Island Municipality: $303,021. A draw from accumulated surplus funds: $501,150. A Salt Spring Island Local Trust Area special property tax requisition of $75,500 to fund continued coordination of watershed management in that Local Trust Area.
Details of the approved 2020/21 budget are available on the Islands Trust website.
At the same meeting, due to the current circumstances related to COVID-19, Trust Council voted to cancel its June 2020 in-person meeting on Hornby Island.
“We look forward to meeting on Hornby Island at a later date when things stabilize and we have the ability to plan with confidence,” shared Peter Luckham. “During the interim, we are working to have electronic meetings open to the public.”
– 30 –
The Islands Trust works to preserve and protect over 450 islands in the Salish Sea through land use planning, the Islands Trust Conservancy, and Trust Council programs and services. The Trust Area, located within Coast Salish territory, is the homeland of over 28,000 Coast Salish Peoples who have called this Area home since time immemorial. Covering 5,200 square kilometres between the British Columbia mainland and southern Vancouver Island, the Trust Area has 26,000 residents and 10,000 non-resident property owners. The region features many Indigenous archaeological and culturally significant sites, and some of the world's most endangered ecosystems.
Contact: Peter Luckham, Chair, Islands Trust Council 250.210.2553
Julia Mobbs, Director, Administrative Services, 250.405.5150
Please do not reply to this message. You may use the links below to contact us or change your subscriber settings.
Home Page Manage your Subscription MapIT Contact Us Privacy Policy
Page 218 of 310 From: Lori Foster To: Lori Foster Subject: Islands Trust Chair calls for TSB inquiry into Plumper Sound freighter collision Date: Friday, April 24, 2020 2:37:55 PM
For information:
Islands Trust Chair, Peter Luckham, has called for a Transportation Safety Board inquiry into the March 30th freighter collision which occurred in Plumper Sound.
You have been cc’d on this correspondence which was sent to Minister Garneau today.
Regards,
Lori Foster Executive Coordinator Islands Trust 200-1627 Fort Street Victoria, BC V8R 1H8 In Victoria 250-405-5161 Enquiry BC Toll-free call 1-800-663-7867 Or from the lower mainland 1-604-660-2421
Websites: www.islandstrust.bc.ca | www.islandstrustconservancy.ca Preserving Island communities, culture and environment since 1974
P Please consider the environment before printing this email
Page 219 of 310
News Release 200 - 1627 Fort Street Victoria BC V8R 1H8 Telephone 250.405.5151 FAX: 250.405.5155 Toll Free via Enquiry BC in Vancouver 604.660.2421. Elsewhere in BC 1.800.663.7867 [email protected] www.islandstrust.bc.ca
May 5, 2020 2020-12-IT
Local Trust Committees Having Electronic Meetings and Public Hearings
Lekwungen, METULIYE/Victoria, BC—Trust Area residents and property owners may be able to attend their next local trust committee meeting or public hearing from their homes. All they need is a phone or a computer with access to the internet.
Under the Emergency Program Act, the Province has repealed and replaced Ministerial Order MO83 with M139. The new order gives Islands Trust the ability to hold meetings electronically, without in-person public participation, and allows for bylaws to be read and public hearings to be held electronically.
Local governments and Islands Trust are required to hold public hearings for some development applications before making a decision.
“This new development will help us serve the public better,” shared Peter Luckham, Chair of the Islands Trust Council. “Public input is an essential part of land use decision-making, even when a public hearing is not required. When we have an electronic meeting or public hearing, we’ll encourage public participation. We want the public to understand what we are doing and why decisions are made. We’ll encourage written submissions in advance of meetings and hearings and invite the public to participate using their computers or phones.”
Local trust committees, Trust Council, Executive Committee, Council committees, and the Islands Trust Conservancy Board will be conducting meetings using Zoom, an electronic video and audio conferencing system, which can be accessed by anyone through the internet, or phone.
Ways the public can participate in meetings will be shared on the Islands Trust and Islands Trust Conservancy websites, through Islands Trust subscriber notices and newspaper advertising (when newspaper deadlines allow). Procedural changes will be communicated using the same methods.
For future meeting notifications, including electronic meeting login information and phone numbers, members of the public are encouraged to subscribe to updates by going to the Islands Trust website.
Until further notice, to protect the health and safety of trustees, Islands Trust employees, and the public during the COVID-19 pandemic, all local trust committee meetings will be held electronically and broadcast using Zoom.
The Islands Trust appreciates the public’s understanding and assistance during this time.
—30—
Page 220 of 310 Bowen, Denman, Gabriola, Galiano, Gambier, Hornby, Lasqueti, Mayne, N. Pender, Salt Spring, Saturna, S. Pender, Thetis
The Islands Trust works to preserve and protect over 450 islands in the Salish Sea through land use planning, the Islands Trust Conservancy, and Trust Council programs and services. The Trust Area, located within Coast Salish territory, is the homeland of over 28,000 Coast Salish Peoples who have called this area home since time immemorial. Covering 5,200 square kilometres between the British Columbia mainland and southern Vancouver Island, the Trust Area has 26,000 residents and 10,000 non-resident property owners. The region features many indigenous archaeological and culturally significant sites, and some of the world's most endangered ecosystems.
Contact: Peter Luckham, Chair, Islands Trust Council 250.210.2553 Russ Hotsenpiller, Chief Administrative Officer, via Vicki Swan, Communications Specialist 250.405.5156
Page 221 of 310
Coastal Fire Centre: Status Report Prepared 04/29/2020
Zone Fire Danger Rating and Activity Level Overview Fire Activity Fire Danger Rating Activity Level Due to a downturn in the weather it has been a relatively quiet Fires 4 (0 lightning-caused/ 4 human-caused) Zone *Subtotals may not add up to the total, since fires not classified as week in the Coastal Fire Centre. Currently Burning “lightning-caused” or “human-caused” are still under investigation. Very Low 1 Fraser New Fires Crews responded to a fire on Discovery Island in the South Island 4 Last Week Zone on April 28, 2020. When the Initial Attack crew (3) arrived, This Fire Season Last Year 10-Year Avg. Pemberton Very Low/Low 1 they found an area approximately 3 metres X 75 metres of (since April 1) (2019) (2010 – 2019) smouldering ground fire along the shore. The fire was quickly Total Fires extinguished. The fire was person-caused and is a good reminder 22 11 22 Very Low/Low 1 to Date Sunshine Coast that despite cooler conditions fires do occur given the right Total conditions. Hectares 235 168 28
Very Low 1 to Date South Island
Active Fires Fire Prohibitions and Restrictions Very Low/Low 1 Mid Island There are currently 4 Active Fires in the Coastal Fire Centre:
• Magee Road Fire, 203 hectares, Pemberton Zone
• Marilou Creek #1, 4 hectares, North Island/Mid Coast Zone
North Island • Very Low/Low 1 Cogburn Drainage, 12.1 hectares, Fraser Zone
• Poole Creek, 1.3 hectares, Pemberton Zone Cat 2 – Prohibited No Ban Not in Effect The status of these fires is ‘Under Control’. Central Coast Cat 3 – Prohibited Very Low 1 (Bella Coola) For more information on specific activities that are prohibited
during a Category 2, Category 3 or campfire prohibition, visit Haida Gwaii Very Low 1 https://www2.gov.bc.ca//gov/content/safety/wildfire-status
Coastal Fire Centre: Fire Zones Weather Forecast Coastal Contact Information SYNOPSIS: This morning most areas still see some showers or a Coastal Fire Centre Information Officer: 250 951-4209 chance of them, with sunny breaks then developing to give more To Report a Wildfire: 1 800 663-5555 or *5555 on a cell phone Click here for more information variable cloud through the day as a weak upper ridge moves over Fire Information Line: 1 888 336-7378 about the Coastal Fire Centre the region. Amounts are showing a lot of variability over the Fire Burn Registration Line: 1 888 797-1717 (Fire Danger Rating Maps, Danger Centre, with some areas seeing light amounts but the potential for Class Reports, Fire Weather amounts exceeding 20mm in upslope/onshore areas. Follow us: Maps, Active Wildfire Map) Temperatures remain very near the seasonal mark. Page 222 of 310 or visit: OUTLOOK (Friday - Sunday): Friday sees the remainder of the ridge Twitter: @BCGovFireInfo moving through, continuing variable cloud through most of the https://www2.gov.bc.ca//gov/co Facebook: @BCForestFireInfo Fire Centre with drier conditions again, however with lingering ntent/safety/wildfire-status cloud and temperatures still around the seasonal mark humidity Website: www.bcwildfire.ca values aren’t expected to be excessively dry. :: www.FireSmartBC.ca and www.FireSmartCanada.ca
Coastal Fire Centre: Status Report Prepared 04/29/2020
Zone Activity Level Fire Danger Rating Level 1: (Exporting) • Low to normal fire activity; no additional resource support is anticipated Status Description • Adequate resources to deal with anticipated fire demands Low Fires may start easily and spread quickly but there will be minimal involvement of deeper fuel layers or larger fuels. • Monitor and anticipate possible support for non-wildfire provincial emergencies Forest fuels are drying and there is an increased risk of surface fires starting. Carry out any forest activities with Moderate • Zone resources may be deployed to other zones, fire centres, and out of province caution. Forest fuels are very dry and the fire risk is serious. New fires may start easily, burn vigorously, and challenge fire Level 2: (Exporting/ Holding) High suppression efforts. Open burning and industrial activities may be restricted. • There is an increase in fire activity; zone resources are adequate to meet their Extremely dry forest fuels and the fire risk is very serious. New fires will start easily, spread rapidly, and challenge fire Extreme demands suppression efforts. Open burning, industrial activities and campfires may be restricted. • Monitor and anticipate possible support for non-wildfire provincial emergencies • Limited resources may be deployable to other zones, fire centres, or out of province Wildfire Ranks Level 3: (Holding) Rank Description • There is an increase in fire activity; zone may not be able to meet local resource demands Characteristics: Smouldering ground fire, no open flame, white smoke, slow (i.e. creeping) rate of fire spread. • Resources from other zones / fire centres may be requested to assist zone activity 1 Firefighting tactics: Direct attack with ground crews using hand tools and water delivery systems (i.e. pumps and • Long term strategic planning becomes critical in determining what resources are hose). needed where Characteristics: Surface fire, visible, open flame, unorganised or inconsistent flame front, slow rate of spread. • Zone staff on standby based on anticipated needs 2 Firefighting tactics: Direct attack with ground crews using hand tools, water delivery systems, or heavy equipment. Hand constructed control lines and lines that have been cleared of combustible material will likely be successful. Level 4: (Holding/ Importing) Characteristics: Organised flame front – fire progressing in organised manner, occasional candling may be observed • The zone is experiencing a high level of fire activity along the perimeter and/or within the fire, moderate rate of spread. • Zone resources will need to be supplemented from other zones / fire centres / type 2 3 Firefighting tactics: Hand constructed control lines alone are likely to be challenged, ground crews conducting direct crews attack may require air support from fixed-wing air tankers, skimmers or helicopters conducting bucketing or tanking • Out of province resource requests for specific or critical resources may be required if operations. Control lines constructed by heavy equipment will generally be effective. provincial resource capacity is not able to handle fire demands Characteristics: Grey to black smoke, organised surface flame front, moderate to fast rate of spread on the ground, short aerial bursts through the forest canopy, short-range spotting. Level 5: (Importing) 4 Firefighting tactics: Ground operations may not be successful at the head of the fire, indirect tactics may be required • The zone is experiencing very significant fire activity, and/or extreme fire behaviour; to bring the head of the fire under control. Parallel attack may be used along the flanks of the fire to direct the head into favourable ground or fuels. Air operations may be required to support ground personnel. heavy demands on provincial and fire centre resources are occurring and anticipated Characteristics: Black to copper smoke, organised crown fire front, moderate to long-range spotting and spot fire to continue growth. • Resource capacity is supplemented with staff from Wildfire TEAMS, other Ministries, Firefighting tactics: The limited options available include indirect attack and planned ignitions to remove fuel in the 5 the forest sector, Fire Departments, and type 2/3 resources path of this type of fire behaviour. Ground operations are often restricted to fighting the least active sections of the Fire Stages of Control fire or conducting ground ignition operations from secure control lines with readily available escape routes and Describes a wildfire that is not responding (or only responding on a safety zones. Characteristics: Organised crown fire front, long-range spotting and independent spot fire growth, possible fireballs Out of Control limited basis) to suppression action, such that the perimeter spread is and whirls, violent fire behaviour probable, a dominant smoke column may develop which influences fire behaviour. not being contained. Firefighting tactics: Firefighting under these conditions is extremely dangerous. Suppression efforts will be well away Indicates that (with the resources currently committed to the fire) 6 from active fire behaviour and may include preparing structure protection measures or conducting indirect large- sufficient suppression action has been taken that the fire is not likely to scale ignition operations in an attempt to steer the fire. Often, the safest and most prudent strategy is to pull Being Held spread beyond existing or predetermined boundaries under the resources back to safe areas, ensure that personnel and the general public are safe, and wait for fire behaviour to lessen before re-engaging in fire suppression operations.
Page 223 of 310 prevailing and forecasted conditions. The fire has received sufficient suppression action to ensure no further Under Control spread of the fire.
Disclaimer: The information in this status report is intended for general purposes only and should not be relied on for opera tional decisions as fires are dynamic and situations change quickly. The BC Wildfire Service makes no warranties or guarantees either expressed or implied as to the completeness, accuracy or correctness of the information, nor accept any liability arising from any incorrect, incomplete or misleading information contained therein. Coastal Fire Centre: Status Report Prepared 04/23/2020
Zone Fire Danger Rating and Activity Level Overview Fire Activity Zone Fire Danger Rating Activity Level There were 8 new fires in the Coastal Fire Centre. 6 fires were Fires 7 (0 lightning-caused/ 7 human-caused) located on Vancouver Island, 2 were the result of motor vehicle Currently *Subtotals may not add up to the total, since fires not classified as “lightning-caused” or “human-caused” are still under investigation. Low 1 fires and one was a house fire. Burning Fraser New Fires 8 Last Week 7 fires are currently considered active, but all are ‘Under Control’. Pemberton Low/Moderate 1 This Fire Season Last Year 10-Year Avg. (since April 1) (2019) (2010 – 2019)
There is one area in the Coastal Fire Centre currently displaying a Total Fires ‘High’ Fire Danger Rating near Hagensborg but with the forecasted 18 6 2 Sunshine Coast Low/Moderate 1 to Date weather it is expected that this will reduce over the next few days. Total Hectares 235 161 26 South Island Very Low 1 to Date
Active Fires Fire Prohibitions and Restrictions Mid Island Very Low/Low 1 The Magee Road wildfire located 15 km NW of Brackendale, near Squamish was reported on April 15, 2020. This wildfire grew quickly to 203 ha’s in size and an Evacuation Order and Alert was North Island Low/Moderate 1 issued by the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District and the Squamish First Nations. All Evacuation Orders and Alerts have now been lifted. Currently, crews are extinguishing hotspots located Cat 2 – Prohibited No Ban Not in Effect Central Coast Moderate/High 1 using a thermal scan. Weather in the area is favourable for crews, Cat 3 – Prohibited (Bella Coola) combined with the showers experienced today, and the fire status For more information on specific activities that are prohibited is now ‘Under Control’. during a Category 2, Category 3 or campfire prohibition, visit Haida Gwaii Low 1 https://www2.gov.bc.ca//gov/content/safety/wildfire-status
Coastal Fire Centre: Fire Zones Weather Forecast Coastal Contact Information OUTLOOK (Friday - Sunday): The upper ridge moving onto the Coastal Fire Centre Information Officer: 250 951-4209 coast Friday will bring warmer and drier conditions, however this To Report a Wildfire: 1 800 663-5555 or *5555 on a cell phone Click here for more information is replaced by a quite organized frontal system overnight into Fire Information Line: 1 888 336-7378 about the Coastal Fire Centre Saturday bringing wind and rain. Sunday sees a repeat of these Burn Registration Line: 1 888 797-1717 (Fire Danger Rating Maps, Danger conditions as another system impacts the region as a pair of Class Reports, Fire Weather surface lows rotate around an upper feature in the Gulf of Alaska. Follow us: Page 224 of 310 Maps, Active Wildfire Map) Rainfall amounts through the weekend are expected to be quite or visit: high and while they may adjust downward will likely still be Twitter: @BCGovFireInfo significant. Locally heavy downpours are likely in most upslope https://www2.gov.bc.ca//gov/co Facebook: @BCForestFireInfo areas. ntent/safety/wildfire-status % CHANCE OF LIGHTNING /CHANCE OF DRY LIGHTNING Website: www.bcwildfire.ca (for all Zones): Today: 0/0 Tonight: 0/0 Tmrw: 0/0 :: www.FireSmartBC.ca and www.FireSmartCanada.ca
Coastal Fire Centre: Status Report Prepared 04/23/2020
Zone Activity Level Fire Danger Rating Level 1: (Exporting) • Low to normal fire activity; no additional resource support is anticipated Status Description • Adequate resources to deal with anticipated fire demands Low Fires may start easily and spread quickly but there will be minimal involvement of deeper fuel layers or larger fuels. • Monitor and anticipate possible support for non-wildfire provincial emergencies Forest fuels are drying and there is an increased risk of surface fires starting. Carry out any forest activities with Moderate • Zone resources may be deployed to other zones, fire centres, and out of province caution. Forest fuels are very dry and the fire risk is serious. New fires may start easily, burn vigorously, and challenge fire Level 2: (Exporting/ Holding) High suppression efforts. Open burning and industrial activities may be restricted. • There is an increase in fire activity; zone resources are adequate to meet their Extremely dry forest fuels and the fire risk is very serious. New fires will start easily, spread rapidly, and challenge fire Extreme demands suppression efforts. Open burning, industrial activities and campfires may be restricted. • Monitor and anticipate possible support for non-wildfire provincial emergencies • Limited resources may be deployable to other zones, fire centres, or out of province Wildfire Ranks Level 3: (Holding) Rank Description • There is an increase in fire activity; zone may not be able to meet local resource demands Characteristics: Smouldering ground fire, no open flame, white smoke, slow (i.e. creeping) rate of fire spread. • Resources from other zones / fire centres may be requested to assist zone activity 1 Firefighting tactics: Direct attack with ground crews using hand tools and water delivery systems (i.e. pumps and • Long term strategic planning becomes critical in determining what resources are hose). needed where Characteristics: Surface fire, visible, open flame, unorganised or inconsistent flame front, slow rate of spread. • Zone staff on standby based on anticipated needs 2 Firefighting tactics: Direct attack with ground crews using hand tools, water delivery systems, or heavy equipment. Hand constructed control lines and lines that have been cleared of combustible material will likely be successful. Level 4: (Holding/ Importing) Characteristics: Organised flame front – fire progressing in organised manner, occasional candling may be observed • The zone is experiencing a high level of fire activity along the perimeter and/or within the fire, moderate rate of spread. • Zone resources will need to be supplemented from other zones / fire centres / type 2 3 Firefighting tactics: Hand constructed control lines alone are likely to be challenged, ground crews conducting direct crews attack may require air support from fixed-wing air tankers, skimmers or helicopters conducting bucketing or tanking • Out of province resource requests for specific or critical resources may be required if operations. Control lines constructed by heavy equipment will generally be effective. provincial resource capacity is not able to handle fire demands Characteristics: Grey to black smoke, organised surface flame front, moderate to fast rate of spread on the ground, short aerial bursts through the forest canopy, short-range spotting. Level 5: (Importing) 4 Firefighting tactics: Ground operations may not be successful at the head of the fire, indirect tactics may be required • The zone is experiencing very significant fire activity, and/or extreme fire behaviour; to bring the head of the fire under control. Parallel attack may be used along the flanks of the fire to direct the head into favourable ground or fuels. Air operations may be required to support ground personnel. heavy demands on provincial and fire centre resources are occurring and anticipated Characteristics: Black to copper smoke, organised crown fire front, moderate to long-range spotting and spot fire to continue growth. • Resource capacity is supplemented with staff from Wildfire TEAMS, other Ministries, Firefighting tactics: The limited options available include indirect attack and planned ignitions to remove fuel in the 5 the forest sector, Fire Departments, and type 2/3 resources path of this type of fire behaviour. Ground operations are often restricted to fighting the least active sections of the Fire Stages of Control fire or conducting ground ignition operations from secure control lines with readily available escape routes and Describes a wildfire that is not responding (or only responding on a safety zones. Characteristics: Organised crown fire front, long-range spotting and independent spot fire growth, possible fireballs Out of Control limited basis) to suppression action, such that the perimeter spread is and whirls, violent fire behaviour probable, a dominant smoke column may develop which influences fire behaviour. not being contained. Firefighting tactics: Firefighting under these conditions is extremely dangerous. Suppression efforts will be well away Indicates that (with the resources currently committed to the fire) 6 from active fire behaviour and may include preparing structure protection measures or conducting indirect large- sufficient suppression action has been taken that the fire is not likely to scale ignition operations in an attempt to steer the fire. Often, the safest and most prudent strategy is to pull Being Held spread beyond existing or predetermined boundaries under the resources back to safe areas, ensure that personnel and the general public are safe, and wait for fire behaviour to lessen before re-engaging in fire suppression operations.
Page 225 of 310 prevailing and forecasted conditions. The fire has received sufficient suppression action to ensure no further Under Control spread of the fire.
Disclaimer: The information in this status report is intended for general purposes only and should not be relied on for opera tional decisions as fires are dynamic and situations change quickly. The BC Wildfire Service makes no warranties or guarantees either expressed or implied as to the completeness, accuracy or correctness of the information, nor accept any liability arising from any incorrect, incomplete or misleading information contained therein.
From: BCA Property Information BCA:EX To: BCA Property Information BCA:EX Subject: BC Assessment - Taxing Authority Information Sharing Date: Friday, May 1, 2020 10:26:38 AM Attachments: image003.png
Toll Free: 1-866-valueBC (825-8322) Fax: 1-855-995-6209
RE: Taxing Authority Information Sharing with BC Assessment & COVID-19 Response Update In response to COVID-19, BC Assessment’s (BCA) offices remain closed to the public & we have suspended on- site property inspections & civic office visits until further notice. Consequently, we are requesting our taxing authority partners provide the following information electronically to help ensure assessment & tax rolls are accurate, fair, equitable, & stable:
· Building permits · Permissive tax exemptions · Building plans · Revitalization tax exemptions · Land use control amendments · Mailing address changes · Development applications & approvals · Occupiers of civic property · Extensions of service infrastructure · Situs (civic) address assignments
To facilitate electronic transfer of the above information, BCA has implemented Citrix ShareFile, a cloud-based, encrypted, FOIPPA compliant file sharing application. Taxing authorities have been assigned a folder on BCA’s ShareFile site, with sub-folders for each of the above topics that your staff can upload files into.
A detailed guide explaining why we are asking for the above information & instructions outlining how your staff can upload electronic files onto Citrix ShareFile has been placed in ShareFile & in your “Roll reports” folder on bcassessment.ca.
Action Required: Please email [email protected] by May 15th a list, following the format below, of staff from the appropriate departments who require access to Citrix ShareFile to upload files containing the requested information.
First Name Last Name E-Mail Title Local Government John Smith [email protected] Chief Administrative Officer Anywhere City
Page 226 of 310
Recipients of this notification include contacts listed on bcassessment.ca (i.e. Data Advice recipients) & management listed on CivicInfo BC Connect in the following professional categories: Financial Administrator & Deputies; Tax Collector; Approving Officer; Building Technology/Inspection; Engineering; & Planning & Development.
BCA appreciates your patience & assistance as partners during this unprecedented time. Please contact us if you have any questions about the actions we are taking to address the COVID-19 pandemic, or the information we are requesting.
Regards,
Michael Spatharakis BA, AACI, P.App Manager, Local Government Relations [email protected] T 1-866-valueBC (825-8322) x 00498 | C 250-208-3508 400 – 3450 Uptown Blvd. | Victoria, BC V8Z 0B9 | bcassessment.ca
Page 227 of 310 Spring 2020 SCIENCE & POLICY NEWSLETTER Updates on BC SPCA science and academic initiatives, animal policy, legislation and current events
BC SPCA animal welfare auditing The BC SPCA’s entry into the novel areas of auditing for pest control and dog training Any company can call themselves “humane”, but presented multiple challenges in developing how can you be sure? To help answer this question, standardized observations. AnimalKind auditing animal welfare accreditation programs, like those needs reliable and consistent observations to in farming or for animals used in science, use confirm whether harms to urban wildlife are standards and audits to verify humane practices. minimized, and in dog training, the audit must Similarly, before companies can be BC SPCA verify that positive reinforcement training methods AnimalKind accredited, they must complete our are used by trainers. comprehensive audit so we can be confident that Since audits provide only a “snapshot” view of they follow AnimalKind’s science-based standards a business’s animal interactions, animal-based for dog training or wildlife and pest control. observations in the field must be quick, focused In any audit, reviewing documentation such as and easily replicated by different auditors. As we standard operating procedures and evaluating begin to develop standards for dog daycares and record-keeping like staff training records, is other animal-based services, our future auditing important. Critically, a key component of credible needs will include what to observe when dogs are animal welfare auditing also involves actually in group play and what sampling methods to use looking at the animals and their environments. (i.e., where to look in a room full of playing dogs).
Want to get in touch? Email us at [email protected] Page 228 of 310 The strength of AnimalKind auditing procedures In addition to current projects, Dr. Protopopova has been externally validated by the Professional and her team have been busy publishing previous Animal Auditors Certification Organization research on compassion fatigue in animal shelter (PAACO), an independent, third party animal staff, the early identification and protection of welfare audit evaluating organization. AnimalKind dogs at risk of contracting infectious diseases in wildlife and rodent control standards and audit animal shelters, and the feasibility of programs to have held certification from PAACO since 2017. encourage dog adoption.
Success of the AnimalKind program is directly Emergency Program Act modernization linked to the quality of our auditing. With it we can identify the animal-related businesses who In January 2020, the BC SPCA submitted use science-based practices and share our animal recommendations to update B.C.’s Emergency welfare values and ultimately, help more animals. Program Act with an inclusion of animals in both emergency planning and response. Currently Companion Animal Welfare B.C.’s emergency legislation does not require local authorities or First Nations to ensure BC SPCA Research Chair at UBC partners domestic animals are protected by emergency on new animal welfare research services. Excluding domestic animals from the provincial legislation can have serious consequences for both animals and humans including: Loss of animal lives; Increased likelihood of pet owners failing to evacuate as a result of their pet; Individuals re-entering evacuation zones to rescue animals; Emergency responders entering hazardous Dr. Protopopova, the Research Chair in areas to rescue individuals who have remained Companion Animal Welfare at the UBC Animal or re-entered for animals; Welfare Program (sponsored by the BC SPCA), Mental health implications for animal owners has had a busy first semester. She and her and rescuers; and, team are working on new collaborative research Increased risks to animal welfare projects, including a survey to better understand organizations’ personnel. the companion dog population in B.C. This data will identify the welfare, behaviour, and medical concerns that are most important to residents. Additionally, Dr. Protopopova is directing several student-led research studies that aim to improve the housing and handling of shelter rabbits. Dr. Protopopova is in the process of developing an upper-level course in animal shelter management, to help tackle important animal welfare issues in B.C. This community-engaged course is set to be taught for the first time in January 2021. Page 229 of 310 Spring 2020 - page 2 When we communicated to our supporters that we Once the team established priority areas based were bringing forward these recommendations, on the secondary data, a community assessment we collected over 23,000 unique signatures was undertaken in each of these communities, from British Columbians within just two weeks. interviewing internal and external stakeholders. Given this very clear indicator of how strongly All themes from the interviews were then sorted British Columbians feel about this issue, into groups of recurring key themes to help we look forward to future consultations and determine the best strategy to develop a three- Emergency Management B.C.’s report on our year program to address the key issues and needs recommendations. that exist. Community assessment programming: By engaging in the community assessment An evidence-based approach process, the outcome is an approach that is comprehensive and inclusive, and provides the foundation for the development of future programming and service priorities. As an added bonus, it establishes relationships with stakeholders that provide building blocks for a fully-engaged community approach. Wild Animal Welfare Together for Wildlife Strategy Throughout 2019, the BC SPCA participated in stakeholder consultations as part of a four-phase Communities across B.C. vary widely in their engagement process to develop a new wildlife relationships with animals and animal issues. To management and habitat conservation strategy help navigate these variables, the BC SPCA has for B.C. As a result, the Province has drafted a developed a community assessment framework new strategy, titled Together for Wildlife. The that takes an evidence-based approach to strategy is expected to be finalized in spring assisting a community in determining both 2020, and then begin full implementation. As community animal needs and best means to an organization committed to protecting and address those needs. enhancing quality of life for wild animals, the BC SPCA has also submitted an application to be The BC SPCA developed and applied this included on the newly-created Minister’s Wildlife framework to address cat overpopulation - our Advisory Council. first three communities are now moving into programming stages to address their key issues. The first step of the framework was establishing a project team and identifying the scope, then a comprehensive data analysis of relevant factors was conducted. The data for the community assessment was collected in two stages. First the collection of primary data, followed by interviews in the community. Secondary data collection focused on both shelter and community data to
create a complete picture. Lakhani Maja credit: Photo Page 230 of 310 Spring 2020 - page 3 Farm Animal Welfare Meet the team: AnimalKind BC SPCA food policy: Values into action The BC SPCA’s Science & Policy Division includes four teams – AnimalKind, Companion Animal Welfare, Farm Animal Welfare and Wild Animal Welfare. AnimalKind is the BC SPCA’s animal welfare accreditation and referral program for animal-related businesses. Our team follows a rigorous auditing process to make sure companies follow a strict set of standards, and use the kindest, most humane methods. Accredited companies have earned the BC SPCA’s stamp of approval. AnimalKind currently accredits dog training businesses, and wildlife and rodent pest control companies. Nicole Fenwick (pictured below, left), Manager, Research & Standards has been with the BC SPCA since 2016 helping to build AnimalKind The BC SPCA develops our position statements from the very beginning. She previously worked by reviewing science, our values, and our mission as a researcher for the Canadian Council on statement. Our position statements then help Animal Care, and is an MSc graduate of the UBC guide our everyday actions. One of the ways our Animal Welfare Program. Marcela Vargas (right) Farm Animal Welfare position statement is put is a seasoned marketing and graphic design into practice is through our food policy. This professional who joined the AnimalKind team policy applies to all BC SPCA-organized events, in 2019 in the role of Coordinator, AnimalKind both internal and external. Marketing & Engagement. For example, the BC SPCA opposes housing laying hens in cages. For this reason, we only buy cage-free eggs for events, and encourage our supporters to do the same. The BC SPCA is also opposed to farming wild animals (e.g., emu) and foods such as foie gras, so these foods are never served. Our food policy allows us to put our values into action, only supporting farms that provide higher welfare for farm animals. We strive to use food certified by third party welfare organizations such as Certified Humane, Global Animal Partnership, and Animal Welfare Approved whenever possible. We also serve Certified Organic animal products or foods that were grass-fed, cage-free, or free range. To allow our supporters to choose the food that fits their values, we always have vegetarian and vegan options at events and meetings. Page 231 of 310 Spring 2020 - page 4 From: FCM Communiqué
View email in your browser
April 23, 2020
FCM seeks emergency funding for municipalities
Dear rural members,
Municipal leaders are working flat‐out to support Canadians through the COVID‐19 pandemic. Across the country, we’re all taking extraordinary steps to protect people and businesses—and to help them weather the economic storm.
But this pandemic has our communities on the brink of financial crisis. Revenues are falling, costs are rising, and municipalities can’t run operating deficits. That leaves local leaders with stark choices—but this is no time to look at cutting back services.
That’s why, earlier today, FCM publicly called on the federal government to commit to emergency municipal operating funding—to keep essential services running strong, and to keep Canadians safe and supported.
1 Page 232 of 310 More than ever, Canadians are depending on the services we deliver. Emergency operating funding is about keeping municipal services going strong. It’s also just the first step in ensuring local leaders have the tools we need to protect Canadians—and help drive Canada’s recovery.
As your national voice, FCM continues to bring rural leaders together to support local efforts, including through weekly calls with our Rural Forum. We hear the unique challenges you’re facing—from limited health resources to inadequate broadband to struggling key industries—and we’re bringing those challenges directly to senior federal decision‐makers. We’re committed to ensuring a strong rural lens in Canada’s pandemic response.
We’re here for you—and we’re in this together.
Bill Karsten FCM President
Ray Orb Chair, FCM’s Rural Forum
This newsletter was sent to . To opt‐out, follow this link: Unsubscribe
24 Clarence Street T. 613‐241‐5221 Privacy Policy Ottawa, Ontario K1N 5P3 F. 613‐241‐7440 View email in your browser
fcm.ca
© 2020 Federation of Canadian Municipalities
2 Page 233 of 310 From: Stewart, Richard To: "[email protected]" Cc: Council; Steblin, Peter; Allueva, Raul Subject: COVID-19 Pandemic - Metro Vancouver Response Date: Monday, April 27, 2020 12:25:25 PM Attachments: COVID-19 Metro Response.pdf DOCSLANG-#171562-v1-Letter_to_Sav_Dhaliwal_-_Chair_Metro_Vancouver_COVID-19 Pandemic.pdf
Dear Chair Dhaliwal,
On behalf of Coquitlam City Council, I too would like to express our appreciation for the work Metro Vancouver Board of Directors and staff have been doing in dealing with the impacts arising from the Covid-19 Pandemic. We continue to value our relationship with Metro Vancouver and believe it is vital for our regional government to be in lock step with the member municipalities that it represents.
That being said, please accept this letter of support to the sentiment expressed by Mayor van den Broek, of the City of Langley dated April 9, 2020.
We look forward to continuing to work with Metro Vancouver to ensure a coordinated and appropriate response to this pandemic for the well-being of our region and our residents.
Sincerely,
Richard Stewart | City of Coquitlam | Mayor T: 604.927.3001 | C: 604.927.3015 | E: [email protected] coquitlam.ca | Like us on Facebook | Follow us on Twitter or Instagram | Subscribe to our videos on YouTube
Page 234 of 310
April 9, 2020
Mr. Sav Dhaliwal Chair, Board of Directors Metro Vancouver Metrotower III, 4730 Kingsway Burnaby, BC V5H 0C6
Via Email: [email protected]
Dear Chair Dhaliwal,
Re: COVID-19 Pandemic, Metro Vancouver Budget Mitigation Measures
On behalf of Langley City Council, I want to express our sincere appreciation for the work of the Metro Vancouver Board of Directors and staff in dealing with the impacts arising from the COVID-19 pandemic and maintaining continuity of essential services during this extraordinary and unprecedented time.
Langley City, similar to other local governments across BC and the country, is facing significant financial pressures due to the loss of revenues from traditional sources and the potential of tax payment deferrals. We recognize the financial hardship that our residents and business owners are facing. In fact, they are placing increasing pressure on local governments to enact tax relief measures such as waiving utility penalties, deferring utility payment deadlines, and/or deferring property tax deadlines. To this end, Langley City Council has directed staff to develop a budget mitigation package that will include, but not be limited to, the deferral of capital projects, deferral of service level increments, and reduction of operating budget. There is no doubt that difficult decisions will need to be made to provide relief measures on property taxes by curtailing or eliminating services and programs that have traditionally been offered, some of which may have staffing impacts. Any discretionary and/or ‘nice to do’ services and programs will be scrutinized and not immune to potential budget cuts. We believe taking this action is the appropriate and responsible thing to do for our residents and business owners during this crisis.
Page 235 of 310 To: Mr. Sav Dhaliwal Re: COVID-19 Pandemic Page 2
We recognize that Metro Vancouver is facing your own financial pressure during this pandemic. We urge Metro Vancouver to carry out a budget mitigation exercise similar to ours, so that any potential budget reductions within MVRD, MVHC, GVWD and GVS&DD will flow through to member municipalities. Doing so will demonstrate leadership and accountability to your members during this difficult and challenging time. Langley City is more than willing to assist in any way possible and be part of the solution. As we have heard over and over during this crisis, we are in this together.
Yours truly, CITY OF LANGLEY
Val van den Broek Mayor cc: Langley City Councillors Members, Metro Vancouver Board of Directors Municipal Councils, Metro Vancouver Member Municipalities
Page 236 of 310 Page 237 of 310 The City of North Vancouver OFFICE OF MAYOR LINDA BUCHANAN
April 30, 2020
Hon. Minister Selina Robinson Room 310 Parliament Buildings 501 Belleville St. Victoria, BC V8V 1X4
Dear Minister Robinson:
RE: Supporting British Columbians during the COVID-19 pandemic
As Mayor of the City of North Vancouver I want to start by thanking you for your tireless work during these difficult times. Residents are appreciative of the work done by the Province to assist individuals, municipalities, and businesses.
As you know, in a letter dated March 23, 2020 to Hon. Premier John Horgan and yourself, a number of Metro Vancouver Mayors including myself asked the Province to expand the Provincial Property Tax Deferment Program to include all property owners.
We have yet to receive a formal reply regarding this request.
On Monday April 27, 2020 at the City’s Council meeting, Council members shared their concerns regarding the accessibility of the Provincial Property Tax Deferment Program and the current eligibility stipulations.
Council and staff have received numerous communications from residents who are facing new financial challenges as a result of the ongoing pandemic, and who are not currently eligible to access the Provincial Property Tax Deferment Program. As a result, Council passed the following resolution unanimously:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Mayor, on behalf of Council, write to the Provincial government requesting that a Financial Hardship Program be added to the Provincial Property Tax Deferment Program for a limited time, similar to what was introduced in 2009;
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT a copy of this resolution be forwarded to all BC local governments, UBCM, LMLGA and North Shore MLAs and MPs.
Council has requested that if your government is unable to expand the current program to include all property owners, that you consider implementing a Financial Hardship Program similar to the program that was introduced for a limited time following the 2008 economic recession.
An increasing number of experts predict that the COVID-19 pandemic will be more detrimental to the world economy than the 2008 economic recession, and therefore the
141 West 14th Street, North Vancouver, BC V7M 1H9 | Tel: 604-998-3280 | Fax: 604-990-4211 | www.cnv.orgPage 238 | DOC#1908249 of 310
addition of a Financial Hardship Program component to the current Provincial Property Tax Deferment Program should be given serious consideration.
Do not hesitate to contact me if you require additional information. I thank you in advance for your consideration.
Yours Truly,
Linda Buchanan Mayor of the City of North Vancouver c.c. All B.C. municipal governments UBCM LMLGA Bowinn Ma, MLA for North Vancouver-Lonsdale Ralph Sultan, MLA for North Vancouver-Capilano Jane Thornthwaite, MLA for North Vancouver-Seymour Jordan Sturdy, MLA for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky Terry Beech, MP for Burnaby North-Seymour Hon. Johnathan Wilkinson, MP for North Vancouver Patrick Weiler, MP for West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country
The City of North Vancouver Page 239 of 310 2
Municipal Hall
Mayor’s Office
10150 Bottom Wood Lake Road
Lake Country, BC V4V 2M1
Tel: 250‐766‐6670
Fax: 250‐766‐2903 [email protected]
April 15, 2020
The Honourable Bill Morneau Minister of Finance House of Commons Ottawa, ON K1A 0A6
Dear Minister Morneau,
Re: Interest Charged on Deferred Mortgage Payments
On behalf of Council we want to convey our citizens significant concern, frustration and frankly disgust at the way mortgage providers, particularly the big banks are charging interest and delayed payment fees for deferred mortgage payments.
Citizens in our community are deeply troubled and trying to navigate how they will provide for their family in the coming months, into the future, and when the economy is in a recovery phase. Council appreciates your request to financial institutions to provide mortgage deferral options to customers who are financially unstable as a result of the pandemic. It’s unjust and wrongful, that lending institutions are taking advantage of the unavoidable situation customers find themselves facing and profiting from an emergency. Programs offered force customers to pay exorbitant deferral rates and fees, knowing the customer has no other option to exercise. Across Canada individuals and businesses are being called out and punished for profiteering in this crisis yet our wealthiest institutions stand to profit even more, charging interest on interest.
District of Lake Country Council, community and all Canadians trust that you and your staff will review the situation and put suitable regulations into place to eliminate the financial gain banks, our richest, most profitable and protected companies are incurring as a result of COVID‐19.
Sincerely,
James Baker Mayor cc: Honourable Carole James, BC Minister of Finance & Deputy Premier British Columbia Municipalities
Page 240 of 310
Janet Esseiva
From: Patrick Weiler
Dear Mayor and Council,
As we move ahead through this unprecedented challenge, we are making the necessary sacrifices and adapting as best we can. While our front line and essential workers continue to do their important work, the rest of us are staying and working at home. History was made this week with the first ever virtual sitting of all 338 Members of Parliament, and it will continue to meet in this fashion every Tuesday and Thursday to allow parliamentarians the opportunity to do their due diligence on the measures being taken to respond to the pandemic.
There are several important announcements related to the Government of Canada’s response to the pandemic that I would like to update you on:
The application process for the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy was launched through the Canada Revenue Agency on April 27th. 30,000 businesses applied for the subsidy on the first day it was open, and I encourage all eligible businesses interested in this program to submit their applications now in anticipation of the first payments being delivered as early as May 7th.
On April 24, the Government of Canada reached an agreement with the Province of British
1 Page 241 of 310 Columbia to implement the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) for small businesses. This program will lower rent by 75% for small businesses that have been affected by COVID-19 by providing a forgivable loan of up to the cost of 50% of monthly rent to participating commercial property owners.
I’ve heard from many students and young Canadians that are especially concerned about what the impact of the pandemic will be for them. They have also asked about what opportunities are available to them to help our community through this crisis. Last week, we responded by announcing new measures to recruit our young Canadians to assist our communities through the pandemic and creating support for our students unable to find work through this summer.
This includes the Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB) to support students unable to work due to COVID-19, and the Canada Student Service Grant (CSSG) for students who work in national service positions through organizations within their community. We also announced an intention to expand the Canada Service Corps micro-grants for those with great ideas to help their community. We also intend to double the Canada Students Grants Program, broaden the eligibility for student financial assistance, enhance the Canada Student Loans Program, and increase support for Indigenous post-secondary education.
Our Government has also announced new research investments in the fight against COVID-19, including $1 billion in support of a national medical research strategy to fight COVID-19 that includes vaccine development, the production of treatments, and tracking of the virus. This new funding builds on the $275 million investment for coronavirus research and medical countermeasures announced in March.
We recognize that COVID-19 is having a disproportionate impact on many of the most vulnerable in our community, and that has created challenges for the community organizations that they rely on for services and programs. We therefore announced the Emergency Community Support Fund to assist community organizations deliver medications and food to vulnerable groups in our society.
From West Vancouver, to Pemberton, to Pender Harbour, our communities have come together to support one another and help those in need while staying apart. We all thank our healthcare workers and hospital staff who continue to put themselves at risk to keep us safe by cheering them on every evening.
2 Page 242 of 310 My office is always here to help in any way that we can. Please do not hesitate to reach out by phone at 604-913-2660 or by email at [email protected].
Please visit my website at https://patrickweiler.libparl.ca and social media platforms for more immediate updates:
Government Support for Individuals
Canada's COVID-19 Economic Response Plan provides direct support for Canadian workers and businesses. For more information on these measures please see https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan.html. The package of measures includes:
The Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) - a $2000/month benefit to Canadians whose jobs have been impacted due to COVID-19 and meeting the following eligibility requirements: o live in Canada and are at least 15 years old o stopped working because of COVID-19 or are eligible for EI regular or sickness benefits o have not voluntarily quit their job o had income of at least $5,000 in 2019 or in the 12 months prior to the date of their application. o For at least 14 days in a row during the 4-week payment period, you do not expect to receive more than $1,000 (before taxes) from employment and self-employment income How to Apply for the CERB: o The application for the CERB was launched on April 6, and requires Canadians to attest that they meet the eligibility requirements. o Recipients need to re-attest every two weeks to re-confirm their eligibility. o In addition to applying through my CRA Account and My Service Canada, Canadians can also call an automated toll-free phone line (1-800-959- 2019) to apply for CERB. Please see the CERB access portal for more
3 Page 243 of 310 details.
Enhancement of the GST credit for low and modest income families - $400 single adults, $600 for couples [automatic – began April 9th]
A Canada Child Benefit top up - $300 per child added on top of what is presently received [automatic – beginning May]
Mortgage payment deferrals for those facing financial difficulties for up to six months for both CHMC insured mortgages and mortgages through the six largest banks [available immediately - please contact your bank plan to access the benefit]
Placing a six-month interest-free moratorium on the repayment of Canada Student Loans for all individuals currently in the process of repaying these loans [automatically available – from March 30-Sepetmber 30, 2020]
Reducing required minimum withdrawals for Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIFs) by 25% for 2020 to provide flexibility for seniors [available immediately]
Income Tax payments deferred from April to Sept 1 2020
New Supports for Students Our Government announced proposed new measures to recruit young Canadians to assist our communities through the pandemic, as well as supports for our students facing unprecedented challenges, including:
Creating the Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB), which will provide $1,250 per month from May through August for eligible students, and $2,000 for students with dependents or permanent disabilities. The period covered by the Benefit will start on May 1st. Creating the Canada Student Service Grant (CSSG), an up to $5,000 for a student’s education in the fall for students who work in national service positions through organizations within their community. Expanding the Canada Service Corps, which provides grants to connect youth with opportunities to serve their communities, from 1,800 to 15,000. Doubling the Canada Students Grants Program, broadening the eligibility for Student Financial Assistance, and enhancing the Canada Student Loans Program.
4 Page 244 of 310 Increasing support for Indigenous Post-Secondary Education, and extending expiring federal graduate research scholarships and postdoctoral fellowships as well as federal research grants. Many of the aforementioned programs will require changes to be passed in the House of Commons and therefore details are subject to change and will be announced in due course.
The Province of BC recently announced that it will:
B.C. Emergency Benefit for Workers - a tax-free, one time $1,000 payment for B.C. residents whose ability to work has been affected due to COVID-19. [application started May 1] Allow workers to take unpaid leave if they are unable to work for reasons relating to COVID-19 [retroactive to Jan 27, 2020] Allow workers to now have three days of unpaid, job-protected leave each year for people who cannot work due to illness or injury [permanent change] Boost to BC Climate Action Tax Credit [automatic - July 2020] Provide a rent supplement of $500 to be paid directly to landlords Rate reductions from BC Hydro, including: o Universal one per cent reduction in rates for all customers o A three-month bill credit for residential customers who have lost jobs or had wages reduced as a result of COVID-19 The BC Ministry of Children and Family Development is establishing an Emergency Relief Support Fund for children and youth with special needs and their families, providing a direct payment of $225 per month to eligible families over the next three months (to June 30, 2020) Families are encouraged to reach out to their Children and Youth with Special Needs (CYSN) worker to see if they are eligible. Virtual mental health services to support seniors, adults, youth and frontline health care workers.
Support for Canadian Businesses
Over the last few weeks, the Government of Canada announced several measures to support SMEs that have been impacted by COVID‐19. Please see the Canada Business App for information on all federal government support for your business.
5 Page 245 of 310 Creating the Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS). The CEWS is an up to 75% wage subsidy for qualifying employers for up to 3 months. o Potential recipients: Individuals, taxable corporations, partnerships, non‐profit organizations and registered charities are eligible o Criteria: To be eligible, the employer will need to show a drop in revenues of at least 15% as a result of COVID‐19 in the month of March and 30% drop in revenues for the following months. o Measuring Revenue: To measure revenue loss, all employers will have the flexibility to compare their revenue of March, April and May 2020 to that of the same month of 2019, or to an average of their revenue earned in January and February 2020 by either cash or accrual methods. Non‐profits can measure revenue loss by the option of considering government funding or not in their calculations. o Benefit: The subsidy will compensate up to 75% of an employee’s pre‐crisis compensation and 75% of salaries and wages paid to new employees for employers of all sizes and across all sectors. The subsidy will apply at a rate of 75 per cent of the first $58,700 normally earned by employees, a benefit of up to $847 per week, per employee, and will run between March 15 to June 6. Employers are expected to extend this subsidy to current and rehired employees, while also making best efforts to provide the remaining 25% of wages o Employers eligible for the subsidy are also entitled to receive a 100% refund for certain employer‐paid contributions to Employment Insurance and the Canada Pension Plan. This refund would apply to the entire amount of employer‐paid contributions in respect of remuneration paid to furloughed employees during the period where the employer is eligible for the subsidy. o Application: Application process is now open and available through the Canada Revenue Agency with the expectation that businesses will receive the subsidy in about 3 business days. First payments are expected on May 7.
Establishing the Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance (CECRA) o Eligible Recipients: Qualifying commercial property owners and small businesses, including non‐profits and charitable organizations o Criteria: . Tenants paying less than $50,000 per month in rent and who have temporarily ceased operations or have experienced at least a 70 per cent drop in pre‐COVID‐19 revenues. This support will also be available to non‐ profit and charitable organizations. . Commercial property owners that agree to lower rent by at least 75% and not to evict their tenant while the agreement is in place. o Benefit: . Forgivable loans to commercial property owners to cover 50 per cent of three monthly rent payments that are payable by eligible tenants who are experiencing financial hardship during April, May (both retroactive), and June. . The small business tenant is responsible to cover the remainder of the rent (up to 25 per cent) o Application: details and information on application process are forthcoming, but will be available by mid‐May.
Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA) o Eligible recipients: businesses and non‐profit organizations
6 Page 246 of 310 o Criteria: $20,000‐$1,500,000 in payroll in 2019 o Benefit: up to $40,000 interest free government‐guaranteed loan which has a 25% loan forgiveness if repaid by the end of 2022. o Application: available through your financial institution
Other Credit: o $10 billion of support to businesses was made available through the Business Credit Availability Program through the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) Business and Export Development Canada (EDC) [available immediately – contact BDC and EDC] o EDC will guarantee new operating and cash flow term loans that financial institutions extend to SMEs, providing up to $6.25 million. o BDC, together with financial institutions, will provide additional liquidity to businesses through a new Co‐Lending Program providing up to $6.25 million.
A deferral of taxes. To support Canadian businesses during these unprecedented economic times, we are deferring the Goods and Services Tax remittances and customs duty payments until June 30, 2020 [available immediately – automatic]
$675 million to support to small and medium‐sized businesses that are unable to access the government’s existing COVID‐19 support measures, through Canada’s Regional Development Agencies, including Western Economic Diversification.
$287 million to support rural businesses and communities, including by providing them with much‐needed access to capital through the Community Futures Network, including to Community Futures Sunshine Coast and Community Futures Howe Sound.
$250 million to assist innovative, early‐stage companies that are unable to access existing COVID‐19 business support, through the National Research Council of Canada’s Industrial Research Assistance Program.
$20.1 million in support for Futurpreneur Canada to continue supporting young entrepreneurs across Canada who are facing challenges due to COVID‐19. The funding will allow Futurpreneur Canada to provide payment relief for its clients for up to 12 months.
$306.8 million in funding for short‐term, interest‐free loans with non‐payable contributions through Aboriginal Financial Institutions.
Sector Specific Support
Farmers and agri‐food: o $50 million to help farmers, fish harvesters, and all food production and processing employers, put in place the measures necessary to follow the mandatory 14‐day isolation period required of all workers arriving from abroad. o We announced $20M for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to meet the demand for their critical inspection services. o $5 billion in additional lending capacity through Farm Credit Canada. Farmers and food processors can get more information here. Eligible farmers who have an outstanding Advance Payments Program (APP) loan due on or before April 30 will have an additional six months to repay the loans o $62.5 million investment for the new Canadian Seafood Stabilization Fund to help Canada’s seafood sector safely and efficiently process, store, package, and
7 Page 247 of 310 distribute healthy, high‐quality products, sourced from our fish harvesters and aquaculture operators
COVID‐19 Emergency Support Fund for Cultural, Heritage and Sport Organizations o Potential Recipients: Canadian not‐for‐profit cultural, heritage and arts organizations, sports organizations, book publishers, film and television production companies, music organizations, among others o Criteria: organizations that do not qualify for the existing Wage Subsidy due to the irregular nature of their revenues, as well as to cover contract workers o Benefit: $500 million for affected artistic and athletic organizations impacted by COVID‐19. The Fund will provide advances on future grants and contributions to help maintain liquidity as well as small subsidies to cover some fixed costs. o Application: details are forthcoming
Emergency Community Support Fund o $350 million to support community organizations helping vulnerable Canadians, such as seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, newcomers, women, children and youth, LGBTQ2 people, Indigenous people and racialized people. o The Government will disburse funds through national partners, such as the United Way Centraide Canada, the Canadian Red Cross and Community Foundations of Canada o Community organizations may use the funds to: . Expand home deliveries of groceries or medication . Transport seniors or people with disabilities to appointments . Widen the reach of help lines that give information and link people to services . Replace in‐person, one‐on‐one contact with contact through phone calls, texts or the Internet; and . Train volunteers on health and safety so that they can continue to make their invaluable contributions to the COVID‐19 response.
Sustainable Support for Canada’s Energy Sector o Targeting action to create and protect jobs in a downtrodden sector by cleaning up existing persistent sources of pollution and creating the conditions to avoid them in the future. o Providing up to $1.72 billion (including $120 million to BC) to clean up orphan and inactive oil and gas wells. This will: . create approximately 10,000 jobs . eliminate major sources of pollution that are persistently leaking methane and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere . remediate contaminated sites that continue to impact landowners and the general public. . involve the Government of Alberta committing to implement strengthened regulation to significantly reduce the future prospect of new orphan wells o Providing up to $750 million in loans to create a new Emissions Reduction Fund to assist the oil and gas sector to significantly reduce emissions from their operations.
Canada Summer Jobs o To support Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) employers and youth, we adjusted the delivery of the program to better support our communities during the COVID‐19 crisis. Changes to the program for this year include:
8 Page 248 of 310 . an increase to the wage subsidy, so that private and public sector employers can also receive up to 100 per cent of the provincial or territorial minimum hourly wage for each employee . an extension to the end date for employment to February 28, 2021 . allowing employers to adapt their projects and job activities to support essential services . allowing employers to hire staff on a part‐time basis
The Province of BC has enabled:
BC Hydro bill deferral & payment plans available [Call 1‐800‐BC‐HYDRO], including: o A three‐month payment holiday for small businesses o 50‐per‐cent payment deferral for larger industrial customers Deferral of the payment for the following BC business taxes until after Sept 30: Employer health tax (EHT), provincial sales tax (PST), municipal and regional district tax, tobacco tax, motor fuel tax, carbon tax. Scheduled April 1 increases to provincial carbon tax and PST are delayed [automatic]. 50% cut to the school for business and industry property classes, to be passed onto tenants on triple‐net leases [automatic]
Translink Service Changes
Due to low ridership, Translink announced a series of transit service reductions and suspensions. There are a number of impacted routes in our riding starting on May 2. For more information, please visit this page.
The following routes will be temporarily suspended:
251 Park Royal/Queens 252 Park Royal/Inglewood 262 Lions Bay/Caulfield 280 Bluewater/Snug Cove 281 Eagle Cliff/Snug Cove 282 Mt Gardner/Snug Cove
Service will be reduced on the 256 Whitby Estates/Park Royal/Spuraway with service starting at 7 a.m. on weekdays (previously 6 a.m.)
Official Health Information on COVID-19
Be cautious of information you read about the virus online. Stick with reputable sites such as:
9 Page 249 of 310 Public Health Agency of Canada Vancouver Coastal Health BC Centre for Disease Control Health Canada World Health Organization
Further:
Call 8-1-1 for Health concerns or if you are sick. Call 1-888-268-4139 for COVID-19 related questions. Government of Canada COVID-19 mobile app, which provides up-to-date information about the COVID-19 pandemic. Available for Apple iOS and Android platforms.
Mental Heath and Emotional Supports Wellness Together Canada – to support Canadians dealing with increased mental health challenges and substance use, we have launched an online portal that provides resources, tools, apps and connections to trained volunteers and qualified mental health professionals. These include modules for addressing low mood, worry, substance use, social isolation and relationship issues, among other supports.
Individual Actions We All Must Take Following good hygiene practices o Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds o Sneeze/cough into your elbow o Avoid touching your face o Stay home if you're feeling ill, even if it's not COVID‐19 o Avoid usual greetings like handshakes, hugs, kisses Physical distancing o Always maintain 2 metres distance from those outside your household o do not gather in groups and stay home as much as possible. This does not mean you should not go outside to get fresh air, but you should ensure that you keep 2 metres distance from others when you do so.
COVID-19 Self Assessment Tool
To help reduce the burden on phone lines, there is an online COVID‐19 Self Assessment Tool that you can use if you feel ill and do not know what to do.
Lions Gate Hospital
10 Page 250 of 310 Lions Gate Hospital is moving to Outbreak Response Phase 3, which means the hospital will accept only emergency patients. Lions Gate Hospital is also preparing to open a dedicated COVID‐19 unit to provide care to those with the virus. These measures will help us redeploy and train staff, and ensure sufficient medical supplies to respond to the potential for a surge of COVID‐19 patients requiring acute care.
Travel Advisories, Border Control, & Consular Assistance
Travel advisories and border control directives are issued by the Government of Canada. All returning travellers must present federal and provincial authorities with a credible self- quarantine plan for 14 days. Failure to comply is now an offense under the Quarantine Act. Maximum penalties include a fine of up to $750,000 and/or imprisonment for six months. The $5,000 COVID-19 Emergency Loan is available for Canadians abroad to temporarily cover costs while they work towards their return.
Consular services have been working around the clock to repatriate Canadians stuck abroad. Over 18,949 Canadians have returned to Canada on over 144 flights from 74 countries where requests for consular help have been received. These flights have included Canadian government-assisted flights and operations led by our missions abroad. Our office will continue to work with affected constituents to assist in repatriation efforts.
Ferry Regulations New measures are in effect to reduce the risk of spreading COVID‐19 onboard commercial passenger vessels and ferries. Ferries and essential passenger vessel operators are now required to reduce by 50% the maximum number of passengers that may be carried on board (conduct half‐ load voyages) to support the two‐metre physical distancing rule. Transport Canada is also recommending that travelers wear non‐medical masks when they cannot maintain physical distance on their journey.
New Policies from BC Ferries BC Ferries is now screening all customers for COVID‐19 symptoms and restricting travel to any customer that does not meet the screening requirements for any route longer than 30 minutes.
Official News Updates for BC
There are regular updates coming from the BC Ministry of Health and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry, that include advice for the public. Here’s how you can stay up‐to‐date on the most recent news:
Official Government of Canada News Releases: Government of Canada News Releases
Official BC Government News Releases: BC Government News Releases
Official Twitter Accounts can often be the fastest way to get the latest information: o Health Canada: @GovCanHealth o Canada’s Minister of Health: @pattyhadju o BC Centre for Disease Control: @CDCofBC
11 Page 251 of 310 o Vancouver Coastal Health: @VCHhealthcare o BC Minister of Health Adrian Dix: @adriandix
Updates from your Provincial MLAs: o Ralph Sultan (West Vancouver‐ Capilano) – @SultanRalph o Jordan Sturdy (West Vancouver Sea‐to‐Sky) – @JordanWestVanSeatoSky o Nicholas Simons (Powell River‐Sunshine Coast) – http://nicholassimonsmla.ca/covid‐19
Municipality Closures:
West Vancouver updates Squamish updates Whistler updates Pemberton updates Sunshine Coast updates Lions Bay updates Islands Trust updates Squamish‐Lillooet Regional District updates Bowen Island updates
Community Foundations & Resources
Local community foundations are responding to the impacts of COVID‐19 in their communities with special initiatives and funds, and by partnering with local governments and other organizations to help address urgent local needs arising from our current public health crisis.
The West Vancouver Foundation has launched the North Shore COVID‐19 Coronavirus Emergency Response Fund. Full details at www.westvanfoundation.ca. The Sunshine Coast Community Foundation has established the COVID‐19 Emergency Relief Fund. Full details at www.sccfoundation.com. The Squamish Community Foundation’s Emergency Response Fund will be directed to non‐profits in Squamish who provide front‐line services. https://squamishfoundation.com. The Whistler Community Foundation has deployed its Whistler Emergency Fund, to help the most vulnerable community members. Full details at https://www.whistlerfoundation.com/. The Bowen Island Communication Foundation has launched the Resiliency Fund. More information: https://bowenfoundation.com/resiliency‐fund/
12 Page 252 of 310
View this email in your browser
This email was sent to [email protected] why did I get this? unsubscribe from this list update subscription preferences House of Commons ꞏ 6367 Bruce Street ꞏ West Vancouver, bc v7w 2g5 ꞏ Canada
13 Page 253 of 310
Serving British Columbia Since 1984 Provincial Toll Free: 1.888.689.3463 www.childfindbc.com
April 23, 2020 Victoria Office 2722 Fifth Street, 208 Victoria, BC V8T 4B2 Dear Mayor and Councilors, (250) 382-7311 Fax (250) 382-0227 Re: Proclamation for National Missing Children’s Month and Email: Missing Children’s Day [email protected] I write today on behalf of Child Find British Columbia. Child Find BC requests that your local government proclaim May as Missing Children’s Month and May 25th as missing Children’s Day.
Child Find BC provides “ALL ABOUT ME” ID Kits with child finger printing and photos, to at no cost to families and Child Find BC hosts “A charitable non-profit these Child Find ID Clinics throughout BC. Child Find BC provides organization working with education, including public speakers, literature and tips for families to searching families and law assist them in keeping all of our children safe. enforcement to reduce the incidence of missing and We hope that you will raise this proclamation for consideration to your exploited children.” Council and your community at your next meeting.
Most recent reporting from the RCMP show that over 6,800 cases of missing children were reported in British Columbia and over 40,000
cases in Canada. Through the support of municipal governments like yours we are able to educate and bring awareness to thousands of BC families on this important issue. A Missing Child is Everyone’s Thank you so much for your consideration of this request and your Responsibility continuing commitment to Community Services in BC and the children and families of BC. If you have any questions regarding this request please contact the Child Find BC office at 1-888-689-3463.
Yours truly,
Crystal Dunahee President, Child Find BC
If you or your organization would like to host an “All About Me” ID clinic, have an idea for an event in your community or would like literature and information on becoming a member and supporter of Child Find BC, please call us at 1-888-689-3463.
Page 254 of 310
Your Letterhead here
National Missing Children’s Month and Missing Children’s Day
WHEREAS Child Find British Columbia, a provincial member of Child Find Canada is a non-profit, registered charitable organization, incorporated in 1984; AND
WHEREAS The Mandate of Child Find British Columbia is to educate children and adults about abduction prevention; to promote awareness of the problem of missing children, and to assist in the location of missing children; AND
WHEREAS Child Find has recognized Green as the colour of Hope, which symbolizes a light in the darkness for all missing children; AND
WHEREAS Child Find’s annual Green Ribbon of Hope Campaign will be held in the month of May and May 25th is National Missing Children’s Day; AND
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT I, (Mayors Name) of the (city, town, municipality), do hereby proclaim May as Child Find’s Green Ribbon of Hope month and May 25th as National Missing Children’s day. I urge our citizens to wear a green ribbon as a symbol of Hope for the recovery of all missing children; and to remain vigilant in our common desire to protect and nurture the youth of our Province.
______Mayor
Signed at ______this ______day of May, 2020
.
Page 255 of 310 From: Sue Ellen Fast To: Hope Dallas Cc: Bonny Brokenshire Subject: For next council agenda Date: Tuesday, April 28, 2020 2:27:14 PM Attachments: MRG Update LP_Sept 2019 - Apr 2020.pdf Celebrate the Sound Application Poster.pdf
Hi Hope - can you add the update attached to the next council agenda? Bowen makes a financial contribution, as per 2.3, and Bonny and I are active participants through our appointments to Ocean Watch Task Force of Howe Sound Community Forum.
Info items is fine
Sue Ellen
Sue Ellen Fast Bowen Island Municipal Councillor and Islands Trust Vice-Chair (c) 604 833-2418 [email protected], www.bimbc.ca [email protected], www.islandstrust.bc.ca Feeling fortunate to live in such a beautiful and protected part of the world
Begin forwarded message:
From: Fiona Beaty < > Subject: Marine Reference Guide update Date: April 24, 2020 at 2:57:39 PM PDT
. t>,
Dear Leadership Partners (Ocean Watch Task Force and Squamish Nation
Page 256 of 310 councillors)
I hope that you and your families are healthy, calm, and connected with your community these days. COVID-19 has brought upon many changes to our region, and I hope that the adaptation and transition process for your personal and professional lives is as smooth as possible.
Our project is grateful to have been minimally impacted by the pandemic's effects thus far. All staff and project leadership members remain healthy (to our knowledge), and we are grateful to have conducted a large number of events, workshops, and outreach in January - early March 2020. Key changes we are experiencing include a suspension of fieldwork until 2021, and a shift toward virtual-based community engagement and outreach. Overall, we feel confident that these changes will not impede our ability to achieve the project's key deliverables and outcomes on time and budget.
Further to Bridget's update at this morning's virtual Howe Sound Community Forum, I have attached a written update that outlines the key actions and achievements of the Marine Reference Guide from September 2019 - April 2020.
I have also attached a poster for the 'Celebrate the Sound' event that Bridget introduced during today's call. This event (on World Oceans Day, June 8th 2020) will be an opportunity for the Sound's community to gather (virtually) and share stories about the meaning and value of the Sound's ocean to them. Please share the poster with your network and submit a story here before May 1st! For more details please visit our Facebook page.
To accompany this event, we are preparing a project update package that we will share on World Oceans Day with the Sound's communities, which will include resources and highlights of the Marine Reference Guide thus far.
As always, if you have any questions or comments about the project's progress and evolution, please do not hesitate to get in touch over e-mail or phone.
Thank-you all for your ongoing commitment to protecting the diverse human and ecological values associated with the Sound's aquatic environment!
Sincerely, Fiona
-- Fiona Beaty (she/her) | PhD Candidate, UBC Project Director Howe Sound/Atl'ka7tsem Marine Reference Guide
Page 257 of 310 Celebrate Howe Sound/ Atl’ka7tsem
World Oceans Day: June 8th, 2020 6-8pm Location TBD or virtual
In this era of rapid change, nature and community can provide us with strength, comfort and inspiration! We are thrilled to invite you to an evening of story telling about the treasured place we call home: Howe Sound/Atl'ka7tsem. We are looking for positive stories about how you connect to and are inspired by the Sound's oceans, and why a healthy ocean is important to you! We welcome story-telling expressions of all formats, including but not limited to short videos, photo essays, anecdotes, art pieces, and music. Please submit your story before our May 1st 2020 deadline. For more information about this project see www.howesoundguide.ca. Page 258 of 310
APPLY HERE Howe Sound/Atl’ka7tsem Marine Reference Guide Leadership Partners Project Update – Sept 2019 – April 2020 Prepared by: Fiona Beaty, April 24th 2020
This document provides a snapshot progress update for the MRG from Sept 2019 to April 2020
Administrative updates 1. Steering Committee and Leadership Partners 1.1. Steering Committee met in Sept 2019, Nov 2019 & March 2020 to discuss updates and review key decisions 1.2. Project Director (PD) met with Squamish Nation leadership partners (councillors) in March 2020 1.3. Ocean Watch Task Force has not met since Sept 2019
2. Financial partners and budget details 2.1. In 2019 we secured our project’s core funding for the next two years ($451,641.11 of received and secured income); therefore, in 2020 attention will be directed toward research and engagement rather than fundraising. However, we are always open to fundraising and/or partnership options that arise. 2.2. February 2020: Submitted a Canada Summer Jobs application to support two ‘youth’ positions during the summer (will cover full time salary expenses) 2.3. Jan 2020: Received all 2019 local government contributions except for Metro Vancouver; however, have submitted a financial contributions template and request to Metro Vancouver 2.4. Dec 2019: Vancouver Foundation and Lush grants were not accepted 2.5. Dec 2019: Received RBC grant to support Indigenous Guardian Watchmen pilot project ($5000) 2.6. See Appendix 1 for operating budget to date.
3. Management Team 3.1. Myia Antone, Jonny Williams, and Nolan Rudkowsy have been hired as Indigenous Research and Engagement Coordinators (IREC), which entails strengthening ways to include Squamish culture, language, and values in the MRG process and deliverables and build upon the Indigenous Stewardship Network/Guardian Watchmen program ideas and conversation 3.2. Terms of employment for PD and Research Assistant were revised & approved by SC and Tides in Oct 2019
Research and outreach updates 1. Data collection, GIS & research 1.1. In 2019 we collected over 600 new data layers to expand our database for the online map. Currently cleaning all metadata associated with these data layers (estimated completion April 2020) 1.2. Project database and ESRI map development is in progress with support from the David Suzuki Foundation (Project Partners). Estimated completion of beta-version by Sept 2020. Community training planned for 2021. 1.3. See Appendix 2 for 2020 and 2021 work plan schedule. 1.4. April 2020: Bridget and Fiona were accepted to present project at the Salish Sea Ecosystem Conference. Due to COVID-19, we submitted a poster to the virtual conference’s digital database. 1.5. April 2020: Building communications network for research and engagement phase (summer-fall 2020, virtual) 1.6. Feb 2020: Presented to and held informal conversation with West Howe Sound industry groups. Next step is to form working group with key individuals and champions from this sector and from Squamish’s industry groups 1.7. Feb 2020: Organized workshop with regional marine reference guide and GIS projects to align data collection, management, and map creation methods. Participants included West Coast Aquatic, Pacific Salmon Foundation, Tides Canada, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, David Suzuki Foundation, Districts of Squamish and West Vancouver, and Tsleil-Waututh Nation 1.8. Jan 2020: Conducted plankton monitoring survey in partnership with the Pacific Salmon Foundation and Ocean Networks Canada. Project postponed to 2021 due to COVID-19 (all fieldwork suspended) 1.9. Sept 2019: Conducted eelgrass survey around the Sound’s mainland coast in partnership with Ocean Wise, SeaChange Marine Conservation Society, Nicholas Sonntag Marine Education Centre. See here for report. 1.10. Ongoing: Building and sharing marine debris map with DFO, Transport Canada, ECCC and other end users. The map has been viewed 602 times. 1 Page 259 of 310 Howe Sound/Atl’ka7tsem Marine Reference Guide Leadership Partners Project Update – Sept 2019 – April 2020 Prepared by: Fiona Beaty, April 24th 2020
2. Government and Community outreach 2.1. April 2020: Provided logistical support and update at the Howe Sound Community Forum 2.2. April 2020: Met with Squamish Nation language and culture department to advance inclusion of Squamish Nation language within MRG project and process. Also met with Squamish Nation working group to discuss IREC project plants and workshop outcomes. 2.3. March 2020: Held a Squamish Nation stewardship network & Indigenous guardian watchmen workshop. See here for the workshop report. 2.4. Feb 2020: Prepared and presented results of the eelgrass survey to the Town of Gibsons 2.5. Feb 2020: Met with Western Canada Marine Response Corps to discuss data sharing and collaboration 2.6. Jan 2020: Participated in Oceans Protection Plan workshop – gathered contacts 2.7. Jan 2020: Participated in Divers Weekend – gathered contacts and collected data using survey and online map 2.8. Jan 2020: Met with BC Parks staff to share project and understand how it will support their process. Follow-up call with their Protected Areas Applied Ecologist revealed they have added the MRG as a data source for their Provincial Marine Recreation Strategy 2.9. Jan 2020: Participated in outreach event at RBC branch in West Vancouver. Presented on MRG and the Indigenous Guardian Watchmen Program 2.10. Dec 2019: Participated in Howe Sound Conservation Groups meeting held by the Biosphere Region Initiative 2.11. Dec 2019: Presented to Ocean Wise’s Ocean Bridge 2019 youth cohort
3. Communications 3.1. Planning a story-telling event for World Oceans Day on June 8th 2020: Celebrate the Sound. Promoting the event through our Facebook page and website. Please share! 3.2. Created blog posts on Celebrate the Sound event, Squamish Nation Stewardship Workshop, Ocean Watch Task Force, Plankton Survey, Indigenous youth internships, and Squamish Estuary clean-up
Participants at the Squamish Nation Stewardship Network workshop, March 7th 2020.
2 Page 260 of 310 Howe Sound/Atl’ka7tsem Marine Reference Guide Leadership Partners Project Update – Sept 2019 – April 2020 Prepared by: Fiona Beaty, April 24th 2020
Appendix 1: Operating Budget and Revenue to date (July 2018 – April 24th 2020)
Revenue Received income to date $260,925.35 Secured future income in 2020 and 2021 $190,75.76 Secured in-kind contributions 2019-2021* $90,000.00 Total secured revenue (Received + secured income) $451,641.11 Total secured revenue + in-kind $541,641.11
Expenses Expenses to date $124,351.88 Overhead to date $28,979.56 Total expenses to date $153,331.44
Closing Balance Received Income – Total expenses to date $107,593.91 Total secured revenue – Total expenses to date $298,309.67 *Estimations of in-kind contributions come from the David Suzuki Foundation for GIS analysis support ($20,000/year), Ocean Wise Marine Conservation Association for research support ($6,000/year), Department of Fisheries and Oceans for venue space ($1,500/year), the Squamish Nation for venue space ($1,500/year), and the Howe Sound Biosphere Region Initiative for communications support ($1,000/year).
3 Page 261 of 310 Howe Sound/Atl’ka7tsem Marine Reference Guide Leadership Partners Project Update – Sept 2019 – April 2020 Prepared by: Fiona Beaty, April 24th 2020
Appendix 2. 2020 and 2021 work plan schedule overview Note that fieldwork planned for 2020 will occur in 2021 due to the coronavirus-induced travel and fieldwork suspensions.
2020 Work Plan
Divers GIS webinar/ Convene MSP actors Weekend technical workshop for full day workshop Guardian Gibsons eelgrass World Oceans Day: Watchmen Present at Salish Sea presentation Celebrate the Sound workshop Ecosystem Conference
Jan Feb March April May June
Conduct plankton survey Build online map and database Form working groups Conduct community-based research
Goal: all content for Goal: beta-version of narrative documents is online map is complete collected and approved
July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
Conduct plankton survey Build online map and database Start testing beta-version of map Conduct community-based research Hold community workshops
Goal: all project 2021 Work Plan deliverables complete by June 2021
Jan Feb March April May June
Test beta-version of map and database with Incorporate community feedback community users
Complete narrative documents Create story maps for narrative units
July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec
Conduct final training and outreach
Wrap-up Project & Final evaluation
4 Page 262 of 310 From: Bowen Island Municipality To: Hope Dallas Subject: FW: Letter of Support Date: Thursday, April 30, 2020 2:51:46 PM Attachments: Letter of support to elected officials.pdf Letter for endorsment.pdf
From: Dennis Schafer
Dear Mayor and Council,
Stick & Stone Cannabis Co. is a wee Ma & Pa cannabis retail shop located in Fernie BC. Due to current stressors and frustrations, we have collaborated with ACCRES to outline two requests for change to the current regulations that will further the safety measures designed to protect our communities in BC during these trying times and we ask for your support presenting these recommendations to the province.
1) Online Sales 2) Direct Delivery
As owners of a licensed cannabis retail shop, we have been continuously evolving our operations to ensure the safety of the community as new information about COVID-19 becomes available. We have a wide range of customers many who are predominately middle-aged and elderly who purchase our products for both recreational and medical use.
With our recommended adjustments to the current regulations that were designed for a pre-pandemic world, we would be able to continue to safely provide much-needed products to our at-risk customers who are unable to leave the house, ensure a contactless experience for those who are able to visit the store for curbside pickup and keep our staff safe.
Here is an example of the challenges our current customers are facing because they are not able to pay for our products online during COVID-19:
We received a phone call asking if a curbside pick-up was available by a customer of ours who was elderly. They were in desperate need of a product and the delivery times to order from the BC Cannabis Store were too lengthy. We informed them that we carried the product and would do our best to provide a contactless interaction but they would have to tap our terminal and the wireless system may not register outside.
When the customer arrived their vulnerability was apparent. They were approximately 90 years old with a compromised immune system, so becoming infected would likely result in their death. In order to keep them safe while accepting their payment and providing their product we were forced through the following process: 1. We tried to use the tap feature by pressing the terminal against their car window. This did not work due to card issues. 2. We then bleached the terminal and passed it through a small gap in the window so that the customer could complete the transaction. 3. The product was then left on the hood of their car for them to collect when they felt safe to do so.
Even though the utmost precautions are being taken, it is extremely stressful to force customers to go Page 263 of 310 through these processes that could easily be avoided if we were able to use available technology like online payment systems.
There are processes in place for the legal online purchase and delivery of alcohol in BC as well as cannabis in other provinces which have been effective at keeping their communities safe. We are asking for the same considerations.
I can not stress enough how vital allowing online payments and delivery to be available in BC is to our communities and retailers!! When you have someone's life in your hands, you want to have the safest measures in place.
PLEASE ENDORSE THIS LETTER OF SUPPORT
Thank you for your time,
-- Dennis Schafer Stick & Stone Cannabis Co. 250.430.7848 stickandstone.ca
Page 264 of 310
To Minister Farnworth, Solicitor General,
In response to the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency, the Association of Canadian Cannabis Retailers (ACCRES) recognizes the Government of British Columbia for evolving policy to allow for regulated cannabis stores to accept product reservations online and over the phone. This change in regulatory framework will reduce the amount of time consumers have to spend in stores amid the COVID-19 crisis. The status of cannabis retail as an essential service is a recognition of the contributions of these small businesses to the general public. We believe it is appropriate to equip provincial license holders with proactive tools that will allow for them to better protect public health, bolster the legal cannabis market and ensure that these small business remain economically viable for the duration of the crisis.
ACCRES membership would like to see further proactive measures enacted that would further protect both public health and essential workers through these trying times. In supplement to "click and collect"/over the phone ordering, we request that the government enact and support two further regulatory changes to cannabis retail regulations. These measures would be effective in supporting the social and physical distancing measures recommended by public health authorities:
•Online Payment •Direct Delivery
Online Payment
In the interest of balancing public health, along with our customers' need to access legal cannabis, and the long-term economic health of our members, we propose that the Government of British Columbia allow retailers to sell their products online or by phone and collect payment in advance.
Allowing for payment in advance avoids the major point of contamination in a “click and collect” transaction: the requirement to accept cash or interact with the payment processing machine. Pre- payment would reduce contact in store to the absolute minimum, and would facilitate the best possible circumstances for social distancing. This measure would serve to better protect both staff and customers during in store transactions.
Direct Delivery
In further support of social distancing and to accommodate those that are unable to leave their homes due to being immunocompromised or in self isolation, we ask that delivery be allowed directly to customers from the regulated private retailer of their choice. ACCRES believes the best way to ensure continuity of service in these circumstances while minimizing exposure is to allow already trained and security screened staff of private retailers to deliver orders directly to customers. Direct delivery is currently available to the residents of Saskatchewan and Ontario via provincially licensed retailers. ACCRES proposes that these existing regulations be adapted for the BC sector. Contactless age verification is as simple a requiring the upload of photo ID at the time of purchase. The ID can then be matched to the individual receiving the delivery while maintaining a distance of two meters.
Providing greater access to regulated cannabis is vital to protecting public health and safety, and to destabilizing the illicit market - both key aims of the Cannabis Act and provincial regulations. Due to the convenience the illicit market operators continue to be able to offer through direct delivery, legal sales
Page 265 of 310 in BC are tens of millions of dollars behind projected targets in BC. Direct delivery from licensed private cannabis stores conducted in compliance with all health and safety standards provides local communities with an essential and regulated touchpoint that can act as a resource for education and responsible use.
ACCRES believe that by allowing these measures, cannabis retailers will be best equipped to protect public health and safety, while also ensuring the continued operations of independent cannabis retailers that provide access to safe and regulated products. These measures will allow essential services to continue without unnecessarily endangering public health, and we believe these measures will strengthen BC's overall response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the legal cannabis industry in this province.
Sincerely,
Jaclynn Pehota Special Advisor Association of Canadian Cannabis Retailers (ACCRES) 778.772.4343 [email protected]
On Behalf of: ACCRES Board of Directors: Geoff Dear Andrew Gordon Matthew Greenwood Jeremy Jacob Alfred Schaefer Laurie Weitzel
ACCRES Advisory Board: Dr. Rielle Capler, MPA, PhDDr. Ivan Casselman PhDRosy Mondin, LL.B, B.A. (Criminology) Adolfo Gonzales Bert Hick Andrew Livingston Sophie Mas Jonathan Page, Adjunct Professor UBC, CSO Aurora Cannabis Heather TaylerDr. Zachary Walsh, PhDTina Zlati
Page 266 of 310 To Honorable Mayor and Council, Attached is a letter from the Association of Canadian Cannabis Retailers (ACCRES) membership to the Solicitor-General, Hon. Mike Farnworth, calling on the government of British Columbia to further modify cannabis retail regulations in support of physical distancing during the COVID-19 health emergency. ACCRES is seeking your endorsement in support of these measures, which we believe are in line with what other jurisdictions across Canada are adopting. ACCRES is specifically calling on BC to follow the recent move by Ontario, which in response to COVID-19 has moved to allow private cannabis retailers to take online payment and make door-to-door delivery of cannabis products. Both Saskatchewan and now Ontario have allowed online payment and direct delivery with no significant complications or negative consequences, and we believe these regulatory changes are appropriate for BC as well. We believe that many municipal governments in BC could stand to benefit from these changes, as they will hopefully reduce in-store traffic and lineups caused by physical distancing requirements for essential retailers like cannabis stores. This should further reduce the chances of spreading COVID-19, something we believe should be the ultimate priority of any regulated system right now. Finally, we believe this measure is important in allowing licensed, regulated, and tax-compliant retailers a means of competing with unregulated retailers, who are currently quite openly selling cannabis on-line or offering in-person delivery options. With municipal resources currently very constrained and bylaw officers unable to enforce against these proliferating operators, we believe offering these options to regulated retailers could help compliant businesses to compete them out of the market instead. ACCRES ask that you endorse these initiatives in support of regulated cannabis retailers’ efforts to continue serving their customers in a way that protects public health to the greatest extent possible. Sincerely,
Jaclynn Pehota Special Advisor Association of Canadian Cannabis Retailers (ACCRES) 7787724343 [email protected] On Behalf of: ACCRES Advisory Board: ACCRES Board of Directors: Hilary Black Geoff Dear Dr. Rielle Capler, MPA, PhD Andrew Gordon Dr. Ivan Casselman PhD Matthew Greenwood Rosy Mondin, LL.B, B.A. (Criminology) Jeremy Jacob Adolfo Gonzales Alfred Schaefer Bert Hick Laurie Weitzel Andrew Livingston Sophie Mas Jonathan Page, Adjunct Professor UBC Heather Tayler Tina Zlati
Page 267 of 310 1 From: Bowen Island Municipality To: Hope Dallas Subject: FW: Rural Transit Agencies Are Keeping People Alive - VICE Date: Friday, May 1, 2020 8:37:06 AM
From: Nathan Davidowicz
https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/g5xzm7/rural-public-transit-agencies-essential-services-cares- act
A good article. Many areas in Metro Vancouver are rurals.
Cheers Nathan Davidowicz
Page 268 of 310 From: ROBIN BURGER To: BIMBC - Mayor And Council Cc: BIMBC Housing Advisory Committee Subject: Resubmit:Re: New Commons Development/BIRCH Proposal, Metro Vancouver EOI, development of community land for affordable housing (dated Mar. 13/20 Date: Wednesday, April 29, 2020 3:06:11 PM
Dear Mayor and Council,
This letter (below) is resubmitted as it did not appear on the public record and was originally a letter written to the Mayor and council copied to the Mayor’s Standing Committee on Community Lands dated March 13, 2020.
Although this letter was sent before the draft housing needs report was submitted to council providing a missing element to development of our community lands and before or current health crisis, it does not take away from the fact that we need to act urgently and diligently with community consultation when developing housing on Bowen. Planning thoroughly and urgently need not be mutually exclusive. It is unclear how or if we as a community will proceed with housing (or any other issue) due to the present public health crisis as it could have significant and devastating resulting changes for islanders in its aftermath.
While I realize there are many pressing and serious matters before our community at this time, housing is still and will be a critical ongoing concern. Letters written to the Mayor and council are meant to appear on the public record.
As a member of the community taking time to attend council and committee meetings, it would be appreciated to not only have a submission on file but receive a reply, especially from those on council or the committees dealing with housing matters.
Councillor Wynen has been to only member of council to respond to correspondence I have submitted to the Mayor and council and pertinent committees.
Robin Burger
/////////////////////////////
March, 13, 2020
Re: New Commons Development/BIRCH Proposal, Metro Vancouver EOI, development of community land for affordable housing.
I have some concerns with the New Commons Development/BIRCH proposal, the development of the EOI (Expression of Interest) in relation to the criteria requirements for Metro Vancouver Housing and the development and progress of affordable housing on our community lands. Page 269 of 310
I was in attendance at the last two Mayors Standing Committee on Community Lands where the New Commons Development/BIRCH proposal was first brought to this committee. I recently sent a letter to the Mayor and council regarding the current capacities of the municipality’s Housing Advisory Committee.
This email is sent because I would like to see our municipality provide housing to benefit those who need it and that the municipality and partners get these big items right. These ideally are long-time homes for people of our community.
Generally, I support the need for project proposals such as this and understand its commendable intentions, however:
What brought New Commons Development and BIRCH before the MSCCL committee as a delegation and not before the mayor and council and the community which speaks to overall transparency and due process? It is important that we have experienced local expertise on these important and costly projects, utilizing current research, data and planning.
New Commons Development is a type of real estate developer. Social real estate developments are still multimillion-dollar investments. Social non-profit development requires extensive, local community, and municipal commitment to managing considerable long term socially responsible aspects not well explained in this proposal. Social real estate development is a much different commitment than for- profit development. This social commitment structure and municipal planning infrastructure is not in place on Bowen or is in very limited ways.
The municipality owes it to this community to undertake a housing development on community lands taking best practices and the necessary measures to provide housing not just to the first project, or the easy low investment option that comes along. We need solid, extensive, expertise on this type of project with a local preference for the long term. So far these have not been community driven project proposals but municipal “partnerships”.
An additional related problem is vetting of proponents involved with housing and development of affordable housing on Bowen. A concern is the municipality and its committees follow guidelines (or develop guidelines) for Requests for Proposals (RFP) for projects on community lands that avoid circumnavigating a fair community proposal process. For this reason, we need to be more careful and thoughtful about who we select, how we select proponents to be involved and where their interests lie, which leads to the other part of my concern – the municipality seemed to be exclusively privileging this New Commons Development and BIRCH without due process or community vetting. The directors of New Commons Development and BIRCH are both new and so are their organizations to affordable housing projects and proposals.
We do not have a completed current needs assessment or specific related planning in
Page 270 of 310 place for the community lands or necessary municipal infrastructure planning. Recent projects promoted by the municipality such as the BIRCH project on Lot 3 have gone ahead despite this. Now the municipality is working on an EOI with Metro Vancouver Housing without any of the same requirements or full understanding of the criteria, mandate of Metro Vancouver Housing and implications of this partnership. We are too far ahead of ourselves to provide the fundamental planning, data analysis, community involvement and input to undertake projects as brought before the MSCCL and the municipality.
Lastly, these concerns with the NCD/BIRCH proposal translate to similar concerns with future development of our community lands as well as the Metro Vancouver EOI as the Housing Advisory Committee and BIRCH are also involved in decision making around their access to funding and proposals for housing on Bowen. This denotes the same concern – limited experience, capacity to advise, and expertise related to these projects and proposals lacking community involvement and consultation.
These housing projects are to be developed on community lands for the community in need of housing based on extensive planning with broad community input from their inception.
Robin Burger
Page 271 of 310 From: Bowen Island Municipality To: Hope Dallas; BIMBC - Planning Distribution Subject: FW: USSC Marina Staff Housing Award Date: Thursday, April 9, 2020 11:12:25 AM Attachments: Staff housing award.docx
-----Original Message----- From: Rondy Dike > Sent: Thursday, April 9, 2020 11:04 AM To: Bowen Island Municipality
Attention; Daniel Martin - Planner Building inspector. Greg Cormier Mayor & Council
Page 272 of 310 Union Steamship Company Homes Recognized By National Association Insulspan Structural Insulating Panels HONORED BY SIPA
Delta, British Columbia March 10, 2020—Delta structural insulated panel system manufacturer, Insulspan®, received honors during the 2020 SIPA Building Excellence Awards in multiple categories. The awards were given on March 3, 2020 by the Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA), during the “2020 SIPA Annual Meeting”, the national conference and education event focused exclusively on the structural insulated panel industry.
For several years the Structural Insulated Panel Association’s (SIPA) award program has promoted excellence in SIP built projects. Front runners in the industry are honored at the annual awards presentation for their innovative, energy efficient projects.
Insulspan won top honors for excellence in the Affordable Housing category and was runner up in the Single Family ‘Small House’ Under 900 square feet category for the Staff Float Homes built on Bowen Island, BC by Union Steamship Co. Resort. Additionally, Insulspan earned top honors for excellence in the Multifamily category for Founders Block South built by Anthem Properties in Vancouver, BC.
“Insulspan has long been known for its outstanding quality and affordability as well as its excellent sales and design support,” said Insulspan General Manager, Stephen Munn. “We are honored to work with companies like Anthem Properties and Union Steamship Co. Resort on these two incredible projects. Their dedication to creating sustainable and energy efficient housing made these projects a perfect fit for Insulspan SIPs.”
The annual SIPA Building Excellence Awards are judged by an independent panel of industry experts. For a complete list of award winning companies, as well as winners and projects from previous years’ competitions, visit https://www.sips.org/building-excellence-awards
ABOUT Insulspan Structural Insulating Panels: The Insulspan® Structural Insulated Panel (SIPs) System provides green building solutions for commercial and residential construction that reduce energy usage, take less time to install, and provide an airtight thermal envelope for a healthy, sustainable structure. Ready to install as wall, roof, or floor components, the solid, one-piece, pre-cut structural insulated panels are created using two layers of performance rated oriented strand board (OSB) structurally laminated to a core of closed-cell rigid expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation. Visithttps://www.insulspan.com/ to learn more.
ABOUT SIPA: The Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA) is a non-profit trade association representing manufacturers, suppliers, dealer/distributors, design professionals, and builders committed to providing quality structural insulated panels for all segments of the construction industry. SIPA has been in existence since 1990 and has made tremendous progress in advancing energy-efficient construction with structural insulated panels. ####
Laura Jamison Marketing Manager
208.493.2650 (direct) 208.477.0154 (fax)
Page 273 of 310 www.insulspan.com
Page 274 of 310 From: The Office To: [email protected]; [email protected] Cc:
Subject: Ferries, FACs and Essential Services Date: Monday, April 13, 2020 2:06:01 PM Attachments:
Dear Ministers Trevena & Robinson;
Please find attached a letter addressed to you both re my concerns about ferry service and essential services in small communities. I run a small, Bowen Island based courier/freight company, and three weeks ago I wrote to our MP, our MLA and our Mayor about the concerns I had around definitions of essential services, including concerns re ferries.
I’m an essential service, in the supply chain, one who loudly and publicly identified herself as such weeks ago – no-one has talked to me about what reduced ferry service might mean. If the conversation with the FACs is already at a point where we may lose half or more of our ferries everyday, that has real world impacts on the service I can offer, and just how long I can keep going with absolutely no external support and no consultation or information from those making decisions.
I have written to you, copying the letter to all the FACs, the Islands Trust, and our local council, because I don’t think BC Ferries should be in the driver’s seat when it comes to these decisions. I have also written separately to our council, asking that the work of the FAC be public, that it be folded into our Emergency Coordination process, and that the FAC start actively identifying and consulting essential services and workers as a priority. I’m also writing separately to our FAC to outline what reduced service means for my business, and I’m urging everyone else who is “essential” to do the same,
Yours sincerely, Page 275 of 310 Heather Miller
Artisan Office Services Ltd. www.artisanoffice.com [email protected] Mon – Fri 8:30-4 574 Artisan Lane Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 604.947.9119 tel 604-947-2882 fax
Page 276 of 310 Heather Miller Artisan Office Services Ltd Bowen Island BC V0N 1G2 April 12, 2020
Dear Ministers Trevena & Robinson;
I am an essential service provider with concerns related to the provision of ferry services to my community – Bowen Island - and to other small coastal island communities.
I would urge you to urgently establish consultation and decision-making processes re essential ferry service provision which do not treat BC ferries as a spokesman for, or representative of, the interests of our communities. Our needs are not encompassed under the umbrella of being BC Ferry customers, but the current process for decisions around ferry service treat that as a sufficient ground. It is not.
BC Ferries cannot be allowed to make decisions about, or claim to represent, the essential service needs of small ferry dependent communities in this unprecedented time. They should not be allowed to continue to dictate the terms of the conversation, to propose service cuts and changes unilaterally, or decide what essential service providers need. They are not qualified to make those determinations, and the consultative process in place, through the Ferry Advisory Committees, is not currently sufficient to represent us adequately.
Those committees are appointed by BC Ferries, who has veto power on their members, they do not regularly report publicly (the most recent minutes or notes from meetings are from October of 2019) and the FACs are put in the position of having to respond to proposed changes and cuts on the fly, without the opportunity to prepare or gather data, and without mechanisms in place where these issues are publicly discussed or even known in their communities until after the fact.
BC Ferries regularly communicates proposed changes and their plans in conference calls with the FACs, calls that are completely undocumented and unrecorded, calls where BC Ferries has decided the terms, the agenda, the proposals they will make, and so on.
Our very particular and vital interests are not shared, understood or appreciated by BC Ferries, or by the levels of government we have to speak through in order to even potentially be heard. The Ferry corporation has a seat at the table of provincial government, and a voice, which our small communities do not have. I recognize that this situation has created pressures and problems for BC Ferries on a huge scale, and these deserve and need attention. However, it is not appropriate in this situation, where their own vital interests are so impacted, for BC Ferries to be allowed to continue to define or in any way represent the vital interests of small ferry dependent communities to government.
Larger ferry dependent communities, such as the Sunshine Coast, and Vancouver Island, have direct representation through their MLAs and regional bodies that also can speak directly in the halls of power; our small communities do not have equivalent representation. Yet we face heightened challenges that deserve focused, informed attention. For instance:
• 25% of the Islands Trust population is over 65, compared to a provincial average of 15%; these citizens need to be supported to shelter in place
Page 277 of 310
• The islands face food security and price pressures for groceries and other goods/services not faced by larger communities; our islands depend on independent grocery stores without the purchasing power and market influence of large chains, & already pay higher freight costs; with forecasts of generally increasing grocery prices, reduced supply of fresh produce & other staples, chains like Walmart already preemptively buying up the whole of local harvests, and so on, rural/island costs will increase
• Reduced ferry service drives freight costs higher, and potentially removes freight carrying options; this is the sector in which I operate a business. Every extra hour added to our day by reduced ferry service will add 6% to my daily operating costs, a new cost without accompanying revenue. Non-island carriers faced with driver costs and trucks sitting idle waiting for ferries will either raise their delivery prices, or stop serving our communities. For instance, the grocery services that come over to Bowen Island can easily utilize those driver hours and vehicles fully elsewhere. Our local pub has fought, by offering bulk food buying to the public, to keep a carrier coming to the island; will that carrier continue if they are faced with 1, 2, 3 hour ferry waits?
• Previous service reductions by BC Ferries have clearly shown, in the testimony of those impacted, that shift workers are those most adversely effected by reductions of service throughout the day, and that those shift workers are precisely the essential workers still travelling by ferry every day – nurses, medical and healthcare workers, warehouse staff. Are we going to put those people in the position of working a shift, in stressful, exhausting conditions, then make them wait hours for a ferry to get home? Or put them in the position where they cannot get to and from work in a day?
• The islands have a unique, small scale business culture, truly part of the “unique amenities” identified in the Islands Trust Act, businesses that are key supports and drivers of these tight, caring communities. Goods and services are provided by owner-operator run businesses, hybrid and diversified businesses, and very small businesses, alongside many businesses dependent on seasonal/tourist trade; this business sector is often outside the supports offered currently by government (not meeting the $50,000 annual payroll requirement to qualify for interest free loans eg). Local essential services are being provided by businesses like mine, who have lost considerable revenue, must still find the operating costs to continue, and have no external support. The islands, with their unique cultures and communities, are facing existential level threats to their homegrown business culture.
We recently saw a service reduction across the ferry service which did not impact service levels to small island communities; however, this weekend service to the Southern Gulf Islands was cut, with BC Ferries presenting this to the media as a move intended to “accommodate the movement of essential goods to the islands and limited inter-island travel”. But - BC Ferries has steadfastly refused to involve themselves in determining whether travelers are in fact “essential; they cannot present reduced service as supporting essential services when they won’t manage whether travelers are providing essential services. Such cuts, without any management, raise the spectre of truly essential services and workers being left behind to wait even longer while others continue to travel.
Page 278 of 310 Communities are best placed to identify essential service providers and essential workers, and designate them as needing assured or priority loading; communities are also best placed to identify what ferries and service they need to sustain themselves at this time.
In an online town hall meeting Saturday, our Emergency Services Coordinator responded to a question about ferry service levels indicating that BC Ferries would respect essential service provisions but that there may well be reduced runs, allowing them to operate our route with only one shift – that would mean the loss of half of our current ferry schedule. With respect, I cannot see how essential services can be optimally maintained with a ferry schedule cut by half.
I urge you to develop mechanisms to allow us, citizens, with particular, pressing local needs, in a situation of unprecedented need, to speak directly and unmediated to government about the ferry service we need, without the distorting mediation of BC Ferries,
Yours sincerely,
Heather Miller
Page 279 of 310 From: Daniel Franklin To: BIMBC - Mayor And Council Subject: Affordable Housing Project Date: Tuesday, April 28, 2020 2:55:51 PM
Dear Municipal Councillors:
Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. There are 3,573 municipalities across Canada. I, along with a group of business owners and individuals, are looking for municipalities across Canada that want to participate in the next housing revolution. We only need a small number of those municipalities, even just one, to get the ball rolling. Now using the word “revolution” may seem like hyperbole, but I do not believe it is. Tiny homes, 3D printed homes, off-site prebuilt/prefab, and many other new building methods are being adopted by communities around the world. Being one of the first municipalities to jump on board will give your city or town multiple competitive advantages. There is a massive pent up demand for locations that will allow for dwellings such as tiny homes. The first municipality/s that move to allow alternative dwellings will be able to attract new citizens and businesses.
This is not for communities that want to limit their population, or who do not want affordable housing solutions available in their community.
Here are some of the policies that we are looking for:
1. Prioritizing home ownership.
2. Moving away from the commoditization of real estate.
3. Regulating any short term rentals (Airbnb, VRBO, etc) that compromise housing affordability in your community. Not all short term rentals compromise housing affordability.
4. Eliminating minimum building size. Allowing for smaller homes or tiny homes on smaller lots.
5. Allowing for alternative housing types. Container homes, tiny homes, 3D printed homes, as well as affordable fee simple row housing.
Page 280 of 310 6. Finding ways to open up new affordable land and lots for building. Making subdivision of existing lots easier.
7. Reducing the barriers to building new. Barriers being inspections, municipal fees, specific zoning requirements, and general red tape.
Goals:
1. To find communities where affordable housing is a priority. If a municipality were to follow some, or all of the above recommendations, they would be well on their way to creating housing affordability.
2. To create a showcase of affordable buildings. One idea is to create a demonstration “village” of different housing builds from different companies.
3. To find communities suitable for online workers. Telecommuters, digital nomads, distance workers, etc. More and more people only need a solid internet connection to do their job. This means that they can work from almost anywhere, and are often looking for locations with a low cost of living.
Thank you for reading this letter. If your municipal council has an interest in any one of these policies and goals, please feel free to contact me for more detailed information. If you have already embarked on one or more of these initiates, I would be grateful to hear about your efforts in this regard. Are there any reasons why you believe that your municipality wouldn’t be able to implement any of these policies? Please let me know what they are.
Sincerely,
Daniel Franklin
Affordable Housing Advocate
Affordable Housing Project
Visit FORMAFIST.COM for more information.
Page 281 of 310 [email protected] https://www.formafist.com/p/current-letter-version.html
Page 282 of 310 From: Terence McKeown To: Bowen Island Municipality; BIMBC - Mayor And Council Subject: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment Date: Saturday, May 2, 2020 5:06:54 PM
Dear Mayor and Council -
Re: Bylaw #517, 2020 -
I'm writing to express my opposition to the speed limit changes proposed in this amendment. I apologise, I was not aware of previous public consultation on the issue of speed limits. But as one of the few people on Bowen who actually obeys the current limits, I feel they are adequate and appropriate. If there is a problem with enforcement, that isn't a reason to make them lower, it's a reason to police the existing limits more frequently, or perhaps consider speed cameras. If they are unenforceable now, there certainly won't be more compliance when they're lowered. I'm quite surprised that there are significant numbers of citizens who have advocated for these changes. I've only lived on Bowen for 8 1/2 years, but in that time I've never heard anyone complain that the speed limits are too high anywhere on the island. There are already short 20 kph zones for particularly sharp and blind corners, and these are justified. But our existing 30 and 40 kph limits are already very conservative. What is the justification for the 'speed reduction initiative' in those areas that are being lowered? I'm not aware of frequent car accidents on lower Sunset, or on upper Eagle Cliff, proposed new 20 kph zones. From the Transportation Plan:
ICBC crash data shows relatively few trouble areas, with the most reported incidents at the intersections of Bowen Island Trunk Rd & Miller Rd, and Grafton Rd & Adams Rd.
The province has deemed 30 kph the appropriate limit for the most sensitive zones in crowded urban areas. Surely rural Bowen doesn't need to go lower than that on roads with low population density, and only modest vehicle traffic? I frequently drive the length of Sunset and rarely see anyone walking or biking on the roadway. Even deer sightings are rare enough. So it doesn't appear to be a safety issue. What it will do is enrage drivers, even those who respect the current limits.
The Transportation Plan makes considerably more reference to carbon reduction than 'speed reduction.' I wonder if council and staff are aware that most vehicles consume more gas at 20 kph than at 30 or 40? This effect is exaggerated for uphill driving, like the lower section of Sunset and indeed most of the island. There is also still significant construction going on around the golf course, and the island in general, which means a lot of trucks and other large vehicle traffic, some of it diesel, will be regularly climbing these hills where the limits are lowered. These vehicles work a lot harder at 20 kph than 40 kph because they remain in lower
Page 283 of 310 gears at slower speeds. The result is increased emissions, even with smaller vehicles as referenced in the chart below from the National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory [NAEI], an environmental agency of the UK government.
Perhaps there is a justification for the lower limits in this amendment that hasn't been conveyed to the public. The goal of 'speed reduction' is a good one. But speed reduction and speed limit reduction are two very different things. Our current limits are safe and appropriate if adhered to.
I suspect this issue is going to be very contentious when widely known, and it seems so unnecessary. The Municipality will have much more important issues to tackle in the coming year, and we thank you for being willing to take them on.
Yours truly,
Terence McKeown / Lisa Avery
Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G1
Page 284 of 310 From: Haig Farris To: BIMBC - Mayor And Council Cc:
Subject: Fwd: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment Date: Sunday, May 3, 2020 7:06:24 AM
This letter is in support of the attached letter of Terence McKeown.
The proposed bylaw change is ridiculous and will only serve to anger Bowen residents and achieve no useful result. This is a classic attempt to solve a problem that doesn’t exist. Better the council spend their time on figuring out how to keep the $300,000 wasted each year on the Islands Trust and address the needs for a community center and health care on the island.
The one good result from adopting such a stupid bylaw is that those council members voting in favour of the bylaw will be unelected at the next election!
Haig Farris
------Forwarded message ------From: Terence McKeown < Date: Sat, May 2, 2020 at 5:06 PM Subject: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment
Dear Mayor and Council -
Re: Bylaw #517, 2020 -
I'm writing to express my opposition to the speed limit changes proposed in this amendment. I apologise, I was not aware of previous public consultation on the issue of speed limits. But as one of the few people on Bowen who actually obeys the current limits, I feel they are adequate and appropriate. If there is a problem with enforcement, that isn't a reason to make them lower, it's a reason to police the existing limits more frequently, or perhaps consider speed cameras. If they are unenforceable now, there certainly won't be more compliance when they're lowered. I'm quite surprised that there are significant numbers of citizens who have advocated for these changes. I've only lived on Bowen for 8 1/2 years, but in that time I've never heard anyone complain that the speed limits are too high anywhere on the island. There are already short 20 kph zones for particularly sharp and blind corners, and these are justified. But our existing 30 and 40 kph limits are already very conservative. What is the justification for the 'speed
Page 285 of 310 reduction initiative' in those areas that are being lowered? I'm not aware of frequent car accidents on lower Sunset, or on upper Eagle Cliff, proposed new 20 kph zones. From the Transportation Plan:
ICBC crash data shows relatively few trouble areas, with the most reported incidents at the intersections of Bowen Island Trunk Rd & Miller Rd, and Grafton Rd & Adams Rd.
The province has deemed 30 kph the appropriate limit for the most sensitive zones in crowded urban areas. Surely rural Bowen doesn't need to go lower than that on roads with low population density, and only modest vehicle traffic? I frequently drive the length of Sunset and rarely see anyone walking or biking on the roadway. Even deer sightings are rare enough. So it doesn't appear to be a safety issue. What it will do is enrage drivers, even those who respect the current limits.
The Transportation Plan makes considerably more reference to carbon reduction than 'speed reduction.' I wonder if council and staff are aware that most vehicles consume more gas at 20 kph than at 30 or 40? This effect is exaggerated for uphill driving, like the lower section of Sunset and indeed most of the island. There is also still significant construction going on around the golf course, and the island in general, which means a lot of trucks and other large vehicle traffic, some of it diesel, will be regularly climbing these hills where the limits are lowered. These vehicles work a lot harder at 20 kph than 40 kph because they remain in lower gears at slower speeds. The result is increased emissions, even with smaller vehicles as referenced in the chart below from the National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory [NAEI], an environmental agency of the UK government.
Page 286 of 310
Perhaps there is a justification for the lower limits in this amendment that hasn't been conveyed to the public. The goal of 'speed reduction' is a good one. But speed reduction and speed limit reduction are two very different things. Our current limits are safe and appropriate if adhered to.
I suspect this issue is going to be very contentious when widely known, and it seems so unnecessary. The Municipality will have much more important issues to tackle in the coming year, and we thank you for being willing to take them on.
Yours truly,
Terence McKeown / Lisa Avery
Bowen Island, BC
V0N 1G1
Page 287 of 310 From: Emma Chow To: Haig Farris; BIMBC - Mayor And Council Cc:
Subject: RE: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment Date: Monday, May 4, 2020 3:09:51 PM
Hi Haig,
Thank you for your email supporting Terence McKeown’s concerns on the proposed Speed Bylaw. The intent of the Bylaw is to capture existing speed limits on the island. However, the speed limits shown in the draft Bylaw were based on Public Works data that may be subject to inaccuracies. At the April 27th Council meeting, the discrepancies on Fairweather Rd and Cowan Point Dr were identified and Council directed that the entirety of both roads be 40 km/h.
Speeding on the island has been a longstanding safety concern that will require this Bylaw to properly address. Please be assured that the Speed Reduction project is to address excessive speeding issues and does not involve reducing existing speed limits. Your feedback is much appreciated in the adoption process. Please let me know if you have any further questions or concerns.
Emma Chow Island Community Planner Bowen Island Municipality
981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 [email protected] 604-947-4255
The information transmitted herein is confidential and may contain privileged information. It is intended solely for the person or entity to which it is addressed. Any review, retransmission, dissemination, taking of any action in reliance upon, or other use of this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. If you received this in error, please notify me and delete or destroy all copies.
From: Haig Farris > Sent: Sunday, May 3, 2020 7:06 AM To: BIMBC - Mayor And Council
Page 288 of 310 Subject: Fwd: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment
This letter is in support of the attached letter of Terence McKeown.
The proposed bylaw change is ridiculous and will only serve to anger Bowen residents and achieve no useful result. This is a classic attempt to solve a problem that doesn’t exist. Better the council spend their time on figuring out how to keep the $300,000 wasted each year on the Islands Trust and address the needs for a community center and health care on the island.
The one good result from adopting such a stupid bylaw is that those council members voting in favour of the bylaw will be unelected at the next election!
Haig Farris
------Forwarded message ------From: Terence McKeown Date: Sat, May 2, 2020 at 5:06 PM Subject: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment
Dear Mayor and Council -
Re: Bylaw #517, 2020 -
I'm writing to express my opposition to the speed limit changes proposed in this amendment. I apologise, I was not aware of previous public consultation on the issue of speed limits. But as one of the few people on Bowen who actually obeys the current limits, I feel they are adequate and appropriate. If there is a problem with enforcement, that isn't a reason to make them lower, it's a reason to police the existing limits more frequently, or perhaps consider speed cameras. If they are unenforceable now, there certainly won't be more compliance when they're lowered. I'm quite surprised that there are significant numbers of citizens who have advocated for these changes. I've only lived on Bowen for 8 1/2 years, but in that time I've never heard anyone complain that the speed limits are too high anywhere on the island. There are already short 20 kph zones for particularly sharp and blind corners, and these are justified. But our existing 30 and 40 kph limits are already very conservative. What is the justification for the 'speed reduction initiative' in those areas that are being lowered? I'm not aware of frequent car accidents on lower Sunset, or on upper Eagle Cliff, proposed new 20 kph zones. From the Transportation Plan: Page 289 of 310
ICBC crash data shows relatively few trouble areas, with the most reported incidents at the intersections of Bowen Island Trunk Rd & Miller Rd, and Grafton Rd & Adams Rd.
The province has deemed 30 kph the appropriate limit for the most sensitive zones in crowded urban areas. Surely rural Bowen doesn't need to go lower than that on roads with low population density, and only modest vehicle traffic? I frequently drive the length of Sunset and rarely see anyone walking or biking on the roadway. Even deer sightings are rare enough. So it doesn't appear to be a safety issue. What it will do is enrage drivers, even those who respect the current limits.
The Transportation Plan makes considerably more reference to carbon reduction than 'speed reduction.' I wonder if council and staff are aware that most vehicles consume more gas at 20 kph than at 30 or 40? This effect is exaggerated for uphill driving, like the lower section of Sunset and indeed most of the island. There is also still significant construction going on around the golf course, and the island in general, which means a lot of trucks and other large vehicle traffic, some of it diesel, will be regularly climbing these hills where the limits are lowered. These vehicles work a lot harder at 20 kph than 40 kph because they remain in lower gears at slower speeds. The result is increased emissions, even with smaller vehicles as referenced in the chart below from the National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory [NAEI], an environmental agency of the UK government.
Perhaps there is a justification for the lower limits in this amendment that hasn't been conveyed to the public. The goal of 'speed reduction' is a good one. But
Page 290 of 310 speed reduction and speed limit reduction are two very different things. Our current limits are safe and appropriate if adhered to.
I suspect this issue is going to be very contentious when widely known, and it seems so unnecessary. The Municipality will have much more important issues to tackle in the coming year, and we thank you for being willing to take them on.
Yours truly,
Terence McKeown / Lisa Avery
Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G1
Page 291 of 310 From: Bruce Russell To: Haig Farris; BIMBC - Mayor And Council Cc:
Subject: RE: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment Date: Sunday, May 3, 2020 12:31:35 PM
I fully support Terry McKeown's reasoned comments. I exceed Terry's time on the island by 68.5 years and am not aware of any problems with speeds being excessive. No changes please. Let me assure council there is absolutely no way even a 20 kph speed on Pothole Drive, aka Beach Drive, could be achieved. Bruce & Dorene Russell
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.
------Original message ------From: Haig Farris Date: 2020-05-03 7:06 a.m. (GMT-08:00) To: [email protected] Cc:
Subject: Fwd: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment
This letter is in support of the attached letter of Terence McKeown.
The proposed bylaw change is ridiculous and will only serve to anger Bowen residents and achieve no useful result. This is a classic attempt to solve a problem that doesn’t exist. Better the council spend their time on figuring out how to keep the $300,000 wasted each year on the Islands Trust and address the needs for a community center and health care on the island.
The one good result from adopting such a stupid bylaw is that those council members voting in favour of the bylaw will be unelected at the next election!
Haig Farris
------Forwarded message ------From: Terence McKeown
Page 292 of 310 Date: Sat, May 2, 2020 at 5:06 PM Subject: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment
Dear Mayor and Council -
Re: Bylaw #517, 2020 -
I'm writing to express my opposition to the speed limit changes proposed in this amendment. I apologise, I was not aware of previous public consultation on the issue of speed limits. But as one of the few people on Bowen who actually obeys the current limits, I feel they are adequate and appropriate. If there is a problem with enforcement, that isn't a reason to make them lower, it's a reason to police the existing limits more frequently, or perhaps consider speed cameras. If they are unenforceable now, there certainly won't be more compliance when they're lowered. I'm quite surprised that there are significant numbers of citizens who have advocated for these changes. I've only lived on Bowen for 8 1/2 years, but in that time I've never heard anyone complain that the speed limits are too high anywhere on the island. There are already short 20 kph zones for particularly sharp and blind corners, and these are justified. But our existing 30 and 40 kph limits are already very conservative. What is the justification for the 'speed reduction initiative' in those areas that are being lowered? I'm not aware of frequent car accidents on lower Sunset, or on upper Eagle Cliff, proposed new 20 kph zones. From the Transportation Plan:
ICBC crash data shows relatively few trouble areas, with the most reported incidents at the intersections of Bowen Island Trunk Rd & Miller Rd, and Grafton Rd & Adams Rd.
The province has deemed 30 kph the appropriate limit for the most sensitive zones in crowded urban areas. Surely rural Bowen doesn't need to go lower than that on roads with low population density, and only modest vehicle traffic? I frequently drive the length of Sunset and rarely see anyone walking or biking on the roadway. Even deer sightings are rare enough. So it doesn't appear to be a safety issue. What it will do is enrage drivers, even those who respect the current limits.
The Transportation Plan makes considerably more reference to carbon reduction than 'speed reduction.' I wonder if council and staff are aware that most vehicles consume more gas at 20 kph than at 30 or 40? This effect is exaggerated for Page 293 of 310 uphill driving, like the lower section of Sunset and indeed most of the island. There is also still significant construction going on around the golf course, and the island in general, which means a lot of trucks and other large vehicle traffic, some of it diesel, will be regularly climbing these hills where the limits are lowered. These vehicles work a lot harder at 20 kph than 40 kph because they remain in lower gears at slower speeds. The result is increased emissions, even with smaller vehicles as referenced in the chart below from the National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory [NAEI], an environmental agency of the UK government.
See the source image
Perhaps there is a justification for the lower limits in this amendment that hasn't been conveyed to the public. The goal of 'speed reduction' is a good one. But speed reduction and speed limit reduction are two very different things. Our current limits are safe and appropriate if adhered to.
I suspect this issue is going to be very contentious when widely known, and it seems so unnecessary. The Municipality will have much more important issues to tackle in the coming year, and we thank you for being willing to take them on.
Yours truly,
Terence McKeown / Lisa Avery
Page 294 of 310 Bowen Island, BC
V0N 1G1
Page 295 of 310 From: Emma Chow To: Bruce Russell Cc:
Subject: RE: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment Date: Monday, May 4, 2020 3:10:04 PM
Hi Bruce & Dorene,
Thank you for your email supporting Terence McKeown’s concerns on the proposed Speed Bylaw. The intent of the Bylaw is to capture existing speed limits on the island. However, the speed limits shown in the draft Bylaw were based on Public Works data that may be subject to inaccuracies. At the April 27th Council meeting, the discrepancies on Fairweather Rd and Cowan Point Dr were identified and Council directed that the entirety of both roads be 40 km/h.
Speeding on the island has been a longstanding safety concern that will require this Bylaw to properly address. Please be assured that the Speed Reduction project is to address excessive speeding issues and does not involve reducing existing speed limits. Your feedback is much appreciated in the adoption process. Please let me know if you have any further questions or concerns.
Emma Chow Island Community Planner Bowen Island Municipality
981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 [email protected] 604-947-4255
The information transmitted herein is confidential and may contain privileged information. It is intended solely for the person or entity to which it is addressed. Any review, retransmission, dissemination, taking of any action in reliance upon, or other use of this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. If you received this in error, please notify me and delete or destroy all copies.
From: Bruce Russell < Sent: Sunday, May 3, 2020 12:32 PM To: >; BIMBC - Mayor And Council
> Page 296 of 310 Subject: RE: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment
I fully support Terry McKeown's reasoned comments. I exceed Terry's time on the island by 68.5 years and am not aware of any problems with speeds being excessive. No changes please. Let me assure council there is absolutely no way even a 20 kph speed on Pothole Drive, aka Beach Drive, could be achieved. Bruce & Dorene Russell
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.
------Original message ------From: Haig Farris < Date: 2020-05-03 7:06 a.m. (GMT-08:00) To: [email protected] Cc:
Subject: Fwd: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment
This letter is in support of the attached letter of Terence McKeown.
The proposed bylaw change is ridiculous and will only serve to anger Bowen residents and achieve no useful result. This is a classic attempt to solve a problem that doesn’t exist. Better the council spend their time on figuring out how to keep the $300,000 wasted each year on the Islands Trust and address the needs for a community center and health care on the island.
The one good result from adopting such a stupid bylaw is that those council members voting in favour of the bylaw will be unelected at the next election!
Haig Farris
------Forwarded message ------From: Terence McKeown Date: Sat, May 2, 2020 at 5:06 PM
Page 297 of 310 Subject: Proposed Speed Limit Bylaw Amendment
Dear Mayor and Council -
Re: Bylaw #517, 2020 -
I'm writing to express my opposition to the speed limit changes proposed in this amendment. I apologise, I was not aware of previous public consultation on the issue of speed limits. But as one of the few people on Bowen who actually obeys the current limits, I feel they are adequate and appropriate. If there is a problem with enforcement, that isn't a reason to make them lower, it's a reason to police the existing limits more frequently, or perhaps consider speed cameras. If they are unenforceable now, there certainly won't be more compliance when they're lowered. I'm quite surprised that there are significant numbers of citizens who have advocated for these changes. I've only lived on Bowen for 8 1/2 years, but in that time I've never heard anyone complain that the speed limits are too high anywhere on the island. There are already short 20 kph zones for particularly sharp and blind corners, and these are justified. But our existing 30 and 40 kph limits are already very conservative. What is the justification for the 'speed reduction initiative' in those areas that are being lowered? I'm not aware of frequent car accidents on lower Sunset, or on upper Eagle Cliff, proposed new 20 kph zones. From the Transportation Plan:
ICBC crash data shows relatively few trouble areas, with the most reported incidents at the intersections of Bowen Island Trunk Rd & Miller Rd, and Grafton Rd & Adams Rd.
The province has deemed 30 kph the appropriate limit for the most sensitive zones in crowded urban areas. Surely rural Bowen doesn't need to go lower than that on roads with low population density, and only modest vehicle traffic? I frequently drive the length of Sunset and rarely see anyone walking or biking on the roadway. Even deer sightings are rare enough. So it doesn't appear to be a safety issue. What it will do is enrage drivers, even those who respect the current limits.
The Transportation Plan makes considerably more reference to carbon reduction than 'speed reduction.' I wonder if council and staff are aware that most vehicles consume more gas at 20 kph than at 30 or 40? This effect is exaggerated for uphill driving, like the lower section of Sunset and indeed most of the island. There is also still significant construction going on around the golf course, and the
Page 298 of 310 island in general, which means a lot of trucks and other large vehicle traffic, some of it diesel, will be regularly climbing these hills where the limits are lowered. These vehicles work a lot harder at 20 kph than 40 kph because they remain in lower gears at slower speeds. The result is increased emissions, even with smaller vehicles as referenced in the chart below from the National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory [NAEI], an environmental agency of the UK government.
Perhaps there is a justification for the lower limits in this amendment that hasn't been conveyed to the public. The goal of 'speed reduction' is a good one. But speed reduction and speed limit reduction are two very different things. Our current limits are safe and appropriate if adhered to.
I suspect this issue is going to be very contentious when widely known, and it seems so unnecessary. The Municipality will have much more important issues to tackle in the coming year, and we thank you for being willing to take them on.
Yours truly,
Terence McKeown / Lisa Avery
Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G1
Page 299 of 310
Page 300 of 310 From: Sam Gudewill To: BIMBC - Mayor And Council; Bowen Island Municipality Subject: Fairweather Rd Proposed Speed Limit By-Law. Date: Sunday, May 3, 2020 12:48:11 PM
To Whom This May Concern,
As a family, we are 90 year residents of South Bowen Island at Fairweather Bay (former Rogers Family home; I am a great grand son and its current owner/resident), and I would like to provide my vehement rebuttal to this proposed change to the speed limit on Fairweather Rd- and also some unique historical context, if of interest?
The original road was at one time called (in its entirety) by the name of its constructor, Lindy Linekilde, who was a caretaker here at FBay after WW2. He built the original rough gravel version of it in circa 1950. It has since morphed into something more, including the now Fairweather Rd version and the lower part of the original Lindy’s Rd (joined by an intersection and a Stop Sign).
We see NO reason why, after at least 70 years of its existence, such a bylaw should be necessary; at no time can I recall (I am 66) would it have been necessary for such a silly bylaw/rule to be imposed; and furthermore, even in its rough gravel state (pre-1975) would anyone have travelled up it at the then equivalent of 12 mph!! Ridiculous is all that comes to mind; we sincerely hope this foolish proposal dies on the ‘order paper’, where it belongs!
Surely, there are more pressing needs for our esteemed Council to focus their attention on in these times of severe CV-19 stress versus something as mundane as this?
Sincerely, Sam Gudewill
Page 301 of 310 From: Bowen Island Municipality To: Hope Dallas; Emma Chow Subject: FW: reducing speed limits Date: Monday, May 4, 2020 8:48:42 AM
-----Original Message----- From: Ruth Wulf < Sent: Saturday, May 2, 2020 2:52 PM To: Bowen Island Municipality
I am writing to express my opposition to a proposed bylaw to decrease the speed limit on Bowen. It is noted that the bylaw would decrease the speed from 40 km to 30km and even so low as 20km in certain areas. Of particular interest to me, as I live there, is Cowan Point Road. What is the reasoning for this? There is absolutely no need for such a decrease, as this is not a heavily populated area nor a school zone. Decreasing the limit to 20km would only result in increased speeding tickets, or “just another money grab”. I, for one, have no intention of standing on my brakes the whole way down that hill!! I vehemently oppose this!!!
Ruth Wulf
Page 302 of 310 From: Emma Chow To: Cc: Hope Dallas Subject: RE: reducing speed limits Date: Monday, May 4, 2020 9:34:41 AM
Hi Ruth,
Thank you for your email detailing concerns on the proposed Speed Bylaw. The intent of the Bylaw is to capture existing speed limits on the island. However, the speed limits shown in the draft Bylaw were based on Public Works data that may be subject to inaccuracies. At the April 27th Council meeting, the discrepancies on Fairweather Rd and Cowan Point Dr were identified and Council directed that the entirety of both roads be 40 km/h.
Speeding on the island has been a longstanding safety concern that will require this Bylaw to properly address. Your feedback is much appreciated in the adoption process. Please let me know if you have any further questions or concerns.
Emma Chow Island Community Planner Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 [email protected] 604-947-4255
The information transmitted herein is confidential and may contain privileged information. It is intended solely for the person or entity to which it is addressed. Any review, retransmission, dissemination, taking of any action in reliance upon, or other use of this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. If you received this in error, please notify me and delete or destroy all copies.
-----Original Message----- From: Bowen Island Municipality
-----Original Message----- From: Ruth Wulf > Sent: Saturday, May 2, 2020 2:52 PM To: Bowen Island Municipality
I am writing to express my opposition to a proposed bylaw to decrease the speed limit on Bowen. It is noted that the bylaw would decrease the speed from 40 km to 30km and even so low as 20km in certain areas. Of particular interest to me, as I live there, is Cowan Point Road. What is the reasoning for this? There is absolutely no need for such a decrease, as this is not a heavily populated area nor a school zone. Decreasing the limit to 20km would only result in increased speeding tickets, or “just another money grab”. I, for one, have no intention of standing on my brakes the whole way down that hill!! I vehemently oppose this!!!
Ruth Wulf
Page 303 of 310 From: Emma Chow To: Leslie Lucas Cc: BIMBC - Mayor And Council; Patrick Graham; Bonny Brokenshire Subject: RE: Speed Limits Date: Tuesday, May 5, 2020 10:52:26 AM
Hi Leslie,
I have noted your comments regarding speed limits. I've also CC'd the Director of Engineering for Public Works, the Manager of Environment & Parks, and the Mayor regarding your concerns on roadside and park clean-up.
Cheers,
Emma Chow Island Community Planner Bowen Island Municipality 981 Artisan Lane, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G2 [email protected] 604-947-4255
The information transmitted herein is confidential and may contain privileged information. It is intended solely for the person or entity to which it is addressed. Any review, retransmission, dissemination, taking of any action in reliance upon, or other use of this information by persons or entities other than the intended recipient is prohibited. If you received this in error, please notify me and delete or destroy all copies.
-----Original Message----- From: Leslie Lucas < > Sent: Monday, May 4, 2020 4:19 PM To: Emma Chow
Hi Emma
I have been following the chain of emails regarding the proposed change to speed limits on Cowan and Fairweather Roads. I do not understand your reply to Bruce Russel. It sounds like a lot of nonsense to me, but I would like to give you the benefit of the doubt before I make any assumptions. The fact that council is wasting time on this annoys me as there are so many other issues that need addressing. The speed limits are just fine as they are, If anything I would be raising the limit to 50 km which is what most people safely drive on this island anyway. You should be spending time on cleaning up the side of roadways of beer cans and dried debris before forest fire season. That is important and worthwhile. The mayor should be appealing to the residents of Bowen in this down time of no tourists to clean up their island in anticipation of tourists returning and spending money supporting the small business that depend on them. The island is actually looking a mess. Lets clean up the roadsides and the parks and make it look like we want the tourists here. Unless of course, we don’t. We have time right now. It could be a positive campaign. Small steps. But really…..speed limits. Come on.
Leslie Lucas
Page 304 of 310 From: Bowen Island Municipality To: Hope Dallas Subject: FW: Motorized use on Mt. Gardner Date: Monday, May 4, 2020 8:49:41 AM
From: charles harder < > Sent: Saturday, May 2, 2020 7:04 AM To: Bowen Island Municipality
Dear Mayor and Council:
I have become aware that there are plans to ban motorized use on Mt. Gardner.
Currently the local club (BTRA) maintains and builds the trail system in cooperation with the provincial government. These are enthusiasts who put in weeks of work every year to keep the area clean, safe and fun. The only reason they do this is because they love doing it. This means that you currently have a team that goes out and works to maintain that area free of charge and requiring no initiative on anyone else’s part! If there are concerns you have that we are not aware about I ask that you please bring those concerns to our attention so that we can help address them. We want to help! Please don’t step on our work without communicating with us first.
Thank you for your consideration.
Charles Harder
Page 305 of 310 From: Bowen Island Municipality To: Hope Dallas Subject: FW: Motorized use on Mt Gardner Date: Monday, May 4, 2020 8:50:16 AM
From: Nick de Zeeuw < > Sent: Friday, May 1, 2020 9:56 PM To: Bowen Island Municipality
To whom it may concern,
Please do not close off Mt Gardner to motorized users. Mt Gardner is a valued multi use area, and should be enjoyed by all. Discrimination against motorized users is unfair and unjustified. Without access to Mt Gardner, residents will have to take a ferry in order to enjoy their off road motorcycles, causing unnecessary use of ferry resources, unnecessary waste of fuel for vehicle transportation, and unnecessary human travel during the covid pandemic. Preserve the rights of everyone, do not give in to the complaints of the few!
Regards, Nick de Zeeuw
Page 306 of 310 U7 <_n3.._m mm‘Fmmamz. manomo TmmmImm3 msa So. Om::m_ Q2 ._.os.ma 83.. . awa > mooo_m~m:omam<_o~ammnmsr 0o_c3§ 2 o:_ HI J m_._n_om_. 3m 2 u_.<. F ._.mIon. >n__._m:U_x. _<__:_m.Hmq9. 18:: ._.:m mm__:m _<_c m._.mmag Ion. _» Eamon._<__:_m$ 9. _o_nm_O_mm:> csamq mcamsomocmin 8. _oom_mo m_:$3_<. ~o~o _<_m} _<=u: _. Ummwo._a.§ xm?mmzoa mmn__=< < 15 _u3<_:n_m_ _._mm::038.. :3 :2 _mmcmn_m: