Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine public meetings in 2021
42 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Regional District Board Meeting
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Board will hold a regular meeting that includes a closed session, delegations from Shames Mountain and Terrace Public Library, and several reports. Key decisions include awarding a contract for a sewer system expansion master plan for Electoral Area E (Thornhill) and allocating gas tax funds. The board will also consider a zoning amendment bylaw for South Hazelton and adopt the 2022 chair appointments and meeting calendar.
- Contract award for RFP 2021-WS-04 Sewer System Expansion Master Plan for Electoral Area E (Thornhill)
- Allocation of Electoral Area B Gas Tax Community Works Fund for Hazelton Area Transit
- Allocation of Extra Kemano Grant-in-Lieu Funds received for 2021
- Bylaw No. 759 (Kitimat-Stikine Specified Portion of Electoral Area B, South Hazelton Zoning Amendment) - 3rd reading
- Delegation from Terrace Public Library on 2022 Budget
Planning Committee
The Planning Committee will review a rezoning application for 1775 Aldous Street in South Hazelton to allow up to six cluster residential dwellings, along with a new policy for such developments. The committee will also receive reports on ALR residential flexibility changes, a Thornhill APC vacancy, and a land use applications status update. The agenda includes adoption of previous minutes and a closed session for legal matters.
- Rezoning Application No. 144, 2021 - 1775 Aldous Street, South Hazelton (Electoral Area B)
- ALR Residential Flexibility Changes (All Electoral Areas)
- Thornhill APC Vacancy (Electoral Area E)
- Land Use Applications Status Report Update
- Closed session for litigation and other legal matters
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss and potentially direct staff on two major items: applying for up to $12.5 million in federal-provincial infrastructure grants (for the Forceman Landfill Expansion and Two Mile water/sewer projects) and reviewing the draft 2022 budget, which includes a proposed 3.24% tax requisition increase. The committee will also consider several budget-related recommendations, including internal financing for deficits and allocation of grant funds. The meeting begins with a closed session to discuss items exempt from public disclosure under provincial law.
- Apply for $3,000,000 ICIP grant for Forceman Landfill Expansion (cell 1B)
- Apply for up to $9,500,000 ICIP grant for Two Mile Water/Sewer, with discussions on a working group and $4.7M Federal Gas Tax contract
- Draft 2022 budget with 3.24% overall tax requisition increase
- Allocate 2021 COVID-19 Safe Restart grant of $270,000 to Thornhill Dog Control, Thornhill Community Centre, Recreation & Cemetery, and General Government
- Allocate 2022 Kemano Grant-in-lieu across 14 services, including $221,415 for Terrace Area Solid Waste
Regional District Board Meeting
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Board will hear a delegation from Kitselas First Nation on the status of their treaty negotiations, including plans to seek a seat on the Regional District council. The Board will also consider endorsing a universal school food program proposed by the BC Chapter of the Coalition for Healthy School Fund. Other business includes reports on the Dease Lake Airport gas tax funding and year-to-date financials, plus discussion of 2022 appointments and meeting dates.
- Delegation from Kitselas First Nation on treaty update (information only)
- Report on Electoral Area D & F Gas Tax Community Works Fund for Dease Lake Airport
- Report on 2021 Year to Date Actuals by Service
- Discussion of 2022 Chair Appointments List and Meeting Dates & Calendar of Events
- Endorsement request for Universal School Food Program from Coalition for Healthy School Fund
Planning Committee
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Planning Committee is meeting to review and decide on four development variance permit applications (Nos. 215-218) at properties in Thornhill, New Remo, and Lakelse Lake, plus a non-farm use application and two requests for letters of concurrence from telecommunications companies. The committee will also receive reports on grant funding applications and a land use applications status update. The agenda includes adoption of the October 22, 2021 minutes.
- DVP No. 215: 3923 McNeil Street, Thornhill - variance to reduce front/rear setbacks from 7.6m to 4.87m for a mobile home
- DVP No. 216: 1905 Bobsein Crescent, Thornhill - variance application
- DVP No. 217: 6142 Kilby Road, New Remo - variance application
- DVP No. 218: 2204 Catt Point Road, Lakelse Lake - variance application
- Non-farm use application at 6167 Chimdemash Frontage Road (Electoral Area C)
North West Regional Hospital District Board
The North West Regional Hospital District Board is meeting to consider its 2022 provisional budget and five-year plan, including first, second, and third readings and adoption of Bylaw No. 148. The board will also receive reports on the Mills Memorial Hospital project status, UBCM meetings with the Minister of Health and Northern Health, and hear a delegation from Northern Health officials. The agenda includes routine items like minutes approval and correspondence, followed by a closed session for legal and negotiation matters.
- Bylaw No. 148 (Provisional Budget 2022) for first, second, third reading and adoption
- Mills Memorial Hospital Project Status report from Northern Health
- Delegation from Ciro Panessa (COO Northwest Health Service Delivery Area) and Mike Hoefer (Northern Health)
- Report on UBCM meeting with Minister of Health Adrian Dix
- 2022-2023 Capital Plan and Facility Condition Assessments from NH/RHD Joint Fall Meeting
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission will consider supporting an application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust for up to $20,000 to fund the Business Facade Improvement program, which provides 50% matching grants (up to $5,000) to business owners in Electoral Areas for exterior improvements. The Commission will also receive a project update report for information only. The meeting is held in conjunction with the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Board meeting.
- Application for up to $20,000 from Northern Development Initiative Trust for Business Facade Improvement program
- Program provides 50% funding up to $5,000 per business for exterior improvements
- $12,570.20 already committed to 5 facade improvement projects in 2021
- Two approved projects (Tri-Town Lumber and Feeds, Kitwanga Community Association) will not proceed, freeing funds
- Project update report covering workforce attraction, community infrastructure, skills training, business retention, and tourism marketing
Planning Committee
The Planning Committee will consider a rezoning application for 1775 Aldous Street in South Hazelton to allow up to seven dwellings (one existing caretaker's residence plus six cluster residential units) on a 4-hectare lot. The proposal includes a new Residential Cluster (RMC) zone and a supporting policy, with a recommendation to give first and second readings to Bylaw No. 759 and schedule a public hearing. The committee will also review two development variance permit applications and a land use applications status update.
- Rezoning Application No. 144, 2021 - 1775 Aldous Street, South Hazelton (Electoral Area B) to new RMC zone
- Development Variance Permit No. 213 - 3885 Pine Avenue, Thornhill (Electoral Area E)
- Development Variance Permit No. 212 & 214 - 5280 Arthur Road, North Terrace (Electoral Area C)
- Land Use Applications Status Report Update
- Adoption of September 24, 2021 Planning Committee minutes
Regional District Board Meeting
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Board will hold a closed session, then reconvene publicly to hear delegations, including an overview of the KSI Lisims floating LNG project and a request for funding from the Kinsmen Club of Terrace. The board will also consider reports on the final draft Solid Waste Management Plan, a FireSmart funding application, and a zoning amendment bylaw for South Hazelton.
- Delegation: KSI Lisims LNG overview of floating LNG project at Portland Canal
- Delegation: Kinsmen Club of Terrace request for funding for Kiddie Camp re-development
- Report: Approval of final draft Solid Waste Management Plan
- Report: 2022 FireSmart Community Funding application (Electoral Areas B, C, E & F)
- Bylaw No. 759: South Hazelton zoning amendment, 1st and 2nd reading
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
The Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss the proposed 2022 budget process schedule and a financial health summary of all 47 regional district services. Staff recommend accepting the schedule, directing preparation of a first draft 2022 budget with requisition increases to cover a proposed compensation review, and exploring inflationary requisition increases for the 2022-2026 financial plan. The meeting is an early high-level discussion to involve the board before formal budget adoption in March 2022.
- Proposed 2022 budget schedule includes public hearing on February 18, 2022
- Financial health summary of 47 services with color-coded green/yellow/red ratings
- Compensation review impact on wages discussed for each service
- Queensway Sewer Utility fee bylaw unchanged since 2012, increase needed in 2022
- Planning services may require requisition increases due to higher demand
Public and Technical Advisory Committee
The Public and Technical Advisory Committee is meeting to receive reports on the 2021 Solid Waste Management Plan survey results, proposed revisions, and the final plan. The committee will also adopt minutes from the December 2020 meeting. The agenda is largely informational, with no decisions scheduled beyond receiving reports.
- 2021 SWMP Survey Results and RDKS Response (1,215 responses)
- Proposed revisions to the Solid Waste Management Plan from Morrison Hershfield
- Final Solid Waste Management Plan (pages 50-145)
- Adoption of December 9, 2020 meeting minutes
Planning Committee
The Planning Committee will receive information-only presentations on the Crown land application referral process and the Highway 16 Terrace Commercial Vehicle Inspection Station (CVIS) project. Staff reports cover the Crown land referral process, an investigative licence for shellfish aquaculture, and a land use application status update. The committee will also consider a resolution to enter closed session for negotiations, litigation, and other confidential matters.
- Crown Land Application Referral Process presentation by Darren Witt, Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development
- Highway 16 Terrace Commercial Vehicle Inspection Station (CVIS) presentation by Curtis Saunders, Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure
- Report on Crown Land Referral Process and the Role of the Regional District (All Electoral Areas)
- Report on Investigative Licence, Aquaculture (Shellfish) - North Island College (Electoral Area C)
- Resolution to exclude public for negotiations, litigation, and other confidential matters
Regional District Board Meeting
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Board will hold a regular meeting, starting with a closed session for legal, labour, and preliminary service negotiations, then reconvene publicly. Key items include a delegation from United Way of Northern BC, a proposed one-year extension of the recycling services agreement with Do Your Part Recycling, a bylaw amendment to solid waste and recycling rates, and adoption of Bylaw No. 758 establishing the Upper Skeena Community Advisory Committee. The board will also consider recommendations from the Economic Development Commission and Planning Committee.
- 1-year extension of Recycling Services Agreement with Do Your Part Recycling
- Bylaw amendment to Kitimat-Stikine Terrace Area Solid Waste and Recycling Collection Service Rates and Regulations Bylaw No. 674, 2016
- Adoption of Bylaw No. 758 (Kitimat-Stikine Upper Skeena Community Advisory Committee)
- Budgeting and Financial Reporting Software Proposals report from CFO
- Delegation from United Way of Northern BC introducing their programs
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission is meeting to review two staff reports: one on facade improvement applications and one on a request from Synergy Foundation for a letter of support for its Project Zero Incubator program. The commission will also adopt minutes from its May 28, 2021 meeting. No votes are scheduled on the reports; the Synergy Foundation item includes a recommendation for the board to provide a letter of support.
- Report on Facade Improvement Applications, including a $1,764.95 reimbursement for Kasiks Lodge and Campground (Electoral Area C)
- Report recommending a letter of support for Synergy Foundation's Project Zero Incubator, a free 8-month program for circular-economy startups
- Adoption of minutes from May 28, 2021 meeting
Regional District Board Meeting
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Board is meeting to consider several reports and bylaws, including awarding a contract for curbside recycling, organics, and garbage collection services, and a contract for construction of a wildlife and electric fence at the Forceman Ridge Landfill. The board will also hear a delegation from the Northern BC Tourism Association about a signage master plan, and consider a bylaw to establish the Kitimat-Stikine Upper Skeena Community Advisory Committee. The meeting begins with a closed session for matters related to property security and labour relations.
- RFP No. 2021-WS-02 Curbside Recycling, Organics and Garbage Collection Services Award Contract
- Construction Services for Combined Wildlife and Electric Fence at the Forceman Ridge Landfill Site Contract
- Bylaw No. 758 (Kitimat-Stikine Upper Skeena Community Advisory Committee) - 1st, 2nd, and 3rd reading
- Delegation from Northern BC Tourism Association on Northern BC Thematic Framework & Great Northern Circle Route Signage Master Plan
- Report on Copperside Estates Water Reform Petition follow-up
North West Regional Hospital District Board
The North West Regional Hospital District Board is meeting to consider 12 capital expenditure bylaws (Nos. 136-147), receive reports on Northern Health capital grants and the Mills Memorial Hospital replacement project, and discuss correspondence on rail safety, hospital district modernization, and COVID-19 vaccination. The meeting will begin in closed session for items involving solicitor-client privilege, confidential information, and preliminary negotiations.
- 12 Capital Expenditure Bylaws (Nos. 136-147) for first, second, third reading and adoption
- Report on Northern Health 2021 Capital Grant Application
- Report on 2021 Bylaw Requests from Northern Health
- Mills Memorial Replacement Project financing and status reports
- Correspondence on rail safety between Prince George and Prince Rupert
Planning Committee
The Planning Committee will consider four staff reports, including a BC Hydro application to amend a Statutory Right of Way to protect an at-risk transmission structure near the Skeena River, a mining lease extension for Eskay Creek Mine, the establishment of the Upper Skeena Community Advisory Committee, and a land use application status update. The committee will also adopt minutes from the June 25, 2021 meeting.
- BC Hydro Crown Land Application No. 0260382 to amend Statutory Right of Way at Dasque-Whitebottom (Electoral Area C)
- Mining Lease Extension Application for Eskay Creek Mine (Electoral Area A)
- Establishment of the Upper Skeena Community Advisory Committee
- Land Use Application Status Report Update
- Adoption of June 25, 2021 Planning Committee minutes
Regional District Board Meeting
The Regional District Board will hear a presentation from Skeena Resources regarding the proposed Eskay Creek Revitalization Project. The company plans to transition the historical underground mine into a modern open-pit gold-silver mine. The board will also discuss property tax exemptions and various regional service reports.
- Skeena Resources presentation on Eskay Creek Revitalization Project
- Westpark Environmental presentation regarding The Connected Coast Project
- Tax exemption requests for My Mountain Co-op and Skeena Valley Golf & Country Club
- Adoption of Waste Management Facility Regulation Amendment Bylaw No. 752, 2021
- Discussion of Fire Department Apparatus Financing
Planning Committee
The committee will consider a request from BC Parks to support vessel operating restrictions in Lakelse Lake Wetlands Provincial Park. Members will also review applications for a temporary use permit in Thornhill and a development variance permit in Lakelse Lake.
- BC Parks request for vessel motor restrictions (under 10 HP) in Lakelse Lake Wetlands Provincial Park
- Temporary Use Permit No. 010 for equipment and vehicle storage at River Drive and Thornhill Frontage Road
- Development Variance Permit No. 211 for a vacant lot south of 2505 First Ave, Lakelse Lake
- Crown Land Application for a temporary licence for a quarry at Dasque-Whitebottom
- Review of Land Use Applications Status Report
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission is reviewing new applications for the Façade Improvement Program. The meeting also includes a high-level update on ongoing economic development projects.
- Façade Improvement application from Tri-Town Lumber & Feed for $3,584.80
- Façade Improvement Program funding status: $3,584.89 remaining if Tri-Town is approved
- Economic Development Project Update - May 2021 report
Regional District Board Meeting
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Board will meet to consider several new bylaws and financial reports. The agenda includes a delegation regarding human trafficking and a notice of motion concerning street lighting.
- Bylaw No. 754: Kitimat-Stikine Delegation of Purchasing Authority
- Bylaw No. 755: Kitimat-Stikine Revenue Anticipation Borrowing
- Bylaw No. 756: Kitimat-Stikine Records Management
- Delegation from Cathy Peters regarding human trafficking and sexual exploitation
- Notice of Motion from Director Dean Paranich regarding street lighting
North West Regional Hospital District Board
The North West Regional Hospital District Board is meeting electronically to receive reports on Northern Health capital plans, audited financial statements, and a joint MOU, along with a COVID-19 update. The board will also consider a resolution to exclude the public for closed-session discussions on legal and preliminary service matters. Most agenda items are informational, with no major decisions listed beyond routine approvals.
- 2020 audited financial statements report
- Northern Health 2021-2022 capital plan update
- Joint MOU between Northern Health and Regional Hospital District
- Fourth quarter 2020/21 capital status reports from Northern Health
- Closed session for solicitor-client privilege and preliminary service discussions
Planning Committee
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Planning Committee is meeting to consider several land-use applications, including a proposed expansion and 30-year renewal of a finfish aquaculture tenure at Kid Bay, a development variance permit at Lakelse Lake, and two temporary use permits in Thornhill. The committee will also hear a delegation from Mowi Canada West about the Kid Bay application and consider a contract award for a housing needs report in Dease Lake.
- Crown land application No. 6406984 to increase finfish farm tenure at Kid Bay from 84.3 to 106.6 hectares and renew for 30 years (Kitasoo Aquafarms Ltd./Marine Harvest Canada)
- Development Variance Permit No. 210 at 2337 First Ave, Lakelse Lake (Electoral Area C)
- Temporary Use Permit No. 009 at 3875 Highway 16 E, Thornhill (Electoral Area E)
- Temporary Use Permit No. 010 at corner of River Drive and Thornhill Frontage Road, Thornhill (Electoral Area E)
- Contract award for Dease Lake Housing Needs Report (Electoral Area F)
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission meets April 23, 2021, in conjunction with the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Board. The main items are two staff reports: one recommending facade improvement grants for Arctic Divide Lodge, Kasiks Lodge and Campground, and Kitwanga Community Association, and one providing an economic development project update. The agenda also includes adoption of the March 19, 2021 minutes and routine procedural items.
- Facade grant recommended: Arctic Divide Lodge (Electoral Area F), $4,320.00 for five exterior doors and a new sign, pending receipts
- Facade grant recommended: Kasiks Lodge and Campground (Electoral Area C), $1,764.95 for two wayfinding signs and a campground entrance sign, pending receipts
- Facade grant recommended: Kitwanga Community Association (Electoral Area B), $3,845.00 toward a $7,690 mural on the community center, pending receipts
- If all three grants are approved, $3,584.80 would remain from the $20,000 Northern Development Initiative Trust facade program
- Report from Economic Development Officer dated March 25, 2021, on the April 2021 Economic Development Project Update
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Committee of the Whole meets April 23, 2021 to hear a report from the Chief Financial Officer on a procurement process review. The report recommends the Board give three readings to Bylaw 754, 2021 (Delegation of Purchasing Authority) and adopt a new Procurement Policy, replacing policies dating to 1993 and 1995. The report says the changes would delegate purchasing authority to staff with set approval limits and move the district to purchasing cards and updated bid procedures; no dollar thresholds are stated in the supplied text.
- Report from CFO Yvonne Koerner, dated April 9, 2021, on Procurement Process Review and Update
- Recommendation to give three readings to Bylaw 754, 2021, Kitimat-Stikine Delegation of Purchasing Authority Bylaw
- Recommendation to adopt the Kitimat-Stikine Procurement Policy
- New policies would replace the September 1995 Purchasing Policy and September 1993 Tenders and Requests for Proposals Policy
- Proposed move to staff purchasing cards with signed agreements, and new Procurement and Bid Procurement procedures
Regional District Board Meeting
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Board is scheduled to meet Friday, April 23, 2021, starting with a closed session at 6:00 p.m. before reconvening for regular public proceedings at 7:00 p.m. The public agenda includes a delegation from the Lakelse Watershed Stewards Society, adoption of March 19, 2021 minutes, and several reports from the Economic Development Officer. The supplied agenda text is heavily repetitive and truncated, so the full list of items and any decisions are not established here.
- Closed session under Section 226(1) of the Local Government Act, citing Community Charter sections 90(1)(a), (k), and (e)
- Delegation: Mitch Drewes and Summer Schulte, Lakelse Watershed Stewards Society, on 2020 Lakelse Watershed Initiatives
- Adoption of March 19, 2021 Board minutes and Planning Committee minutes (for information only)
- Reports from the Economic Development Officer dated March 17, March 26, and April 14, 2021, on letters of support and a Green Municipal Fund pedestrian infrastructure item in Thornhill
Planning Committee
The Planning Committee is reviewing a Development Variance Permit application for a property at 5203 Gossen Creek Street in Electoral Area C. The owner wants to build a storage shop that exceeds the zoning bylaw's maximum gross floor area and height limits. The Committee will also receive several other planning reports, including three more development variance permits, a Crown land aquaculture application, and a FireSmart funding application. Most items are reports for the Committee's consideration; no final decisions are recorded in this agenda.
- Development Variance Permit No. 207 for 5203 Gossen Creek Street: proposed storage shop of 115.20 sq m and 7.01 m height, exceeding the 112 sq m and 6.5 m limits by 3.20 sq m and 0.51 m
- Development Variance Permit No. 208 for 2309 First Avenue, Lakelse Lake (Electoral Area C)
- Development Variance Permit No. 209 for 3667 Krumm Avenue, Thornhill (Electoral Area E)
- Crown land aquaculture application by Kitasoo Aquafarms Ltd. c/o Marine Harvest Canada at Kid Bay (Electoral Area C)
- 2021 FireSmart Economic Recovery Fund application under the Community Resiliency Investment Program (Electoral Areas B, C, D, E & F)
North West Regional Hospital District Board
The North West Regional Hospital District Board meets March 19, 2021 to adopt three bylaws: the 2021 annual budget and two capital expenditure bylaws. Northern Health officials will present updates and slides on the Mills Memorial Hospital Replacement Project. The meeting begins with a closed in-camera session on legal and negotiation matters before reopening to the public.
- Bylaw No. 133 (Annual Budget) — first, second, third reading and adoption
- Bylaw No. 134 (Capital Expenditure) — first, second, third reading and adoption
- Bylaw No. 135 (Capital Expenditure) — first, second, third reading and adoption
- Northern Health delegation: Ciro Panessa and Michael Hoefer on Northern Health updates
- Presentation on Mills Memorial Hospital Replacement Project
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission is deciding whether to approve three Facade Improvement Program applications totaling $6,485.25 for businesses in Electoral Areas B, C, and F. The program provides 50% matching funding (up to $5,000) for exterior building improvements, funded through a $20,000 Northern Development Initiative Trust grant. The Commission will also receive a tabled report on 2021 priority areas for the Economic Development Strategic Plan.
- Rosswood General Store (Electoral Area C) recommended for $4,311.50 for exterior painting, LED lighting, new wood stair, handrail, and signage
- 16 Mile Cabins (Electoral Area F) recommended for $1,738.75 for new signage only; sealant and porch paint deemed ineligible
- Flying Hands Farm (Electoral Area B) recommended for $435 for signage materials and lighting; greenhouse roof panels ineligible
- If all approved, $13,514.75 remains in the facade program
- Tabled report on Economic Development Strategic Plan 2021 Priority Areas to be presented
Regional District Board Meeting
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Board meets March 19, 2021, starting with a closed session on labour or employee relations before reopening to the public at 7:00 p.m. The Board will hear a delegation from the Terrace Community Foundation seeking a letter of support for its Vital Signs project, and will consider reports on economic development, waste management, and the Five Year Financial Plan 2021-2025. Several bylaws are up for adoption or readings, including waste management, regional transit, and water system service amendments.
- Five Year Financial Plan 2021-2025 Bylaw No. 753, 2021 — three readings and adoption
- Bylaw No. 744 (Terrace Area Waste Management Facility Regulation Amendment) — adoption
- Bylaw No. 750 (Hazeltons' Regional Transit Local Service Establishment Amendment) — adoption
- Bylaw No. 751 (Thornhill Water System Service Area Establishment Amendment) — third reading and adoption
- Delegation: Norm Parry, Chair, Terrace Community Foundation, requesting a letter of support for the Vital Signs project
Planning Committee
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Planning Committee is reviewing three Crown land applications and a land use status report. The main item is a recommendation that the Regional District raise no objections to a Licence of Occupation for the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation to install a new fibre optic telecommunications line from Gitanyow to Dease Lake. Two other Crown land applications, for communications sites near Klemtu and a map reserve at Tahltan Lake, are also on the agenda, along with adoption of the February 26, 2021 minutes.
- Recommendation of no objections to Licence of Occupation No. 6409245 for a Tahltan Nation Development Corporation fibre optic line from Gitanyow to Dease Lake (Electoral Areas B and C)
- Crown land application for a Licence of Occupation for communications sites by Quinsam Radio Communications Ltd. near Klemtu (Electoral Area C)
- Crown land application for a map reserve by Fisheries and Oceans Canada at Tahltan Lake (Electoral Area D)
- Land Use Applications Status Report from the Director of Development Services
- Adoption of minutes from the February 26, 2021 Planning Committee meeting
Planning Committee
The Planning Committee will hear a delegation from SPARC BC on the Upper Skeena Housing Needs Report and consider a recommendation to accept the report and post it publicly. The report, covering the Village of Hazelton, District of New Hazelton, and Electoral Area B, identifies a critical shortage of rental housing, an aging population, and housing quality concerns. The committee will also review zoning amendment bylaws for Two-Mile and South Hazelton, an ALR application at 4525 Bohler Road, and a TELUS Crown land application near Woodcock.
- Recommendation to accept the Upper Skeena Housing Needs Report and post it to the Regional District website free of charge
- Two-Mile Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 743, 2020 and South Hazelton Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 747, 2020 (Electoral Area B)
- ALR application for non-adhering residential use at 4525 Bohler Road (Electoral Area C)
- Crown land application for a Licence of Occupation for TELUS Communications Inc. communication sites near Woodcock (Electoral Areas B and C)
- Land Use Applications Status Report update from the Director of Development Services
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission meets alongside the Regional District board to hear two student delegations on improving access to education and education infrastructure in the region. Staff will also present the Economic Development Strategic Plan's 2021 priority areas, focused on Business Retention and Expansion and Skills Training. The agenda also includes adoption of January 22, 2021 minutes and routine procedural items.
- Two delegations present reports: 'Increasing Access to Quality Education' and 'Increasing Access to Education Infrastructure in the RDKS'
- Staff report from the Economic Development Officer dated February 12, 2021, on the Economic Development Strategic Plan: 2021 Priority Areas (information only)
- 2021 priorities identified as Business Retention and Expansion and Skills Training
- Adoption of minutes from the January 22, 2021 Economic Development Commission meeting
- Delegation reports cite a public survey with 95 responses (43% from Terrace) and B.C. projections of 861,000 job openings
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Committee of the Whole is meeting to receive a report from the Chief Financial Officer on 2020 year-to-date actuals and the 2021-2025 draft financial plan. The report recommends the Board authorize administration to prepare the 2021-2025 Financial Plan Bylaw for the March 22, 2021 Board meeting based on the draft, noting that public feedback will be provided and year-end is not complete. The draft plan includes a total 2021 tax requisition of $10,300,589, which is 0.57% higher than 2020, and capital projects totaling $3,323,414.
- 2021-2025 Draft Financial Plan with total tax requisition of $10,300,589, up 0.57% from 2020
- Capital projects for 2021 total $3,323,414, including $643,498 for 4 Fire Apparatus and $500,000 for Queensway Sewer
- Kemano Grant-in-Lieu funding of $690,000 distributed to various services including $150,000 to Thornhill Water System and $140,000 to Regional Trust
- Feasibility projects planned for 2021 include Lakelse/Jackpine Septic Tank Management, Two Mile Water and Sewer Study, and Dease Lake Water Study
- Public input meeting on the financial plan scheduled for February 26, 2021, with the draft posted on the website February 16, 2021
Regional District Board Meeting
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Board meets February 26, 2021, starting with a closed session at 6:00 p.m. before reopening to the public at 7:00 p.m. The Board will hear a delegation from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure on the Cranberry Connector (Nass River Forest Service Road), receive nine staff reports, and consider four bylaws on readings. Three added reports concern letters of support and grant applications for health, broadband, and river management programs.
- Bylaw No. 743 (Two Mile Zoning Amendment, Electoral Area B) — 3rd reading
- Bylaw No. 747 (South Hazelton Zoning Amendment, Electoral Area B) — 3rd reading
- Bylaw No. 750 (Hazeltons' Regional Transit Local Service Establishment Amendment) — 3rd reading
- Bylaw No. 751 (Thornhill Water System Service Area Establishment Amendment) — 1st and 2nd reading
- Delegation: Dan Baker and Rena Gibson, Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, on Cranberry Connector (Nass River FSR) update
Special Meeting of the Regional District Board
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine board is holding a special meeting to review three finance reports. Directors are asked to approve the draft 2021-2025 Financial Plan so it can go to a public input meeting on February 26, 2021, and to adopt it by bylaw before March 31, 2021. They are also asked to allocate a $559,000 COVID-19 Safe Restart grant across services and to authorize transfers of $37,193 from Thornhill Planning and $31,683 from Emergency Measures toward the Queensway Erosion Protection Project's local share.
- Allocate $559,000 COVID-19 Safe Restart grant: $308,000 General Government, $109,200 Terrace Recreation & Cemetery, $63,300 Upper Skeena Rec Centre, $40,000 Emergency Measures, and smaller amounts to dog control and three transit services
- Authorize transfer of $37,193 from Thornhill Planning and $31,683 from Emergency Measures for the Queensway Erosion Protection Project local share
- Approve draft 2021-2025 Financial Plan for the February 26, 2021 public input meeting; adoption required before March 31, 2021
- Queensway Sewer user fee increases planned for 2021 with public engagement, per the CFO report
- 2020 year-end figures in the plan are estimates pending the March audit
Economic Development Commission
The Economic Development Commission meets January 22, 2021, jointly with the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Board. Delegations present the Young Agrarians Land Matching and Business Mentorship Program, which requests funding, and the Qatalyst Research Group's Business Retention and Expansion Strategy. Staff reports cover the BRE Plan, Northern Development Initiative Trust applications for a Telegraph Creek gazebo and marketing materials, and a January 2021 Economic Development Strategic Plan update.
- Young Agrarians delegation (Jolene Swain) requests funding for the BC Land Matching Program and Business Mentorship Network, citing goals 3.1 and 3.2 of the 2019 Agriculture Sector Support Plan
- Qatalyst Research Group (Ted Weicker, Jacky Zhang) presents the Business Retention and Expansion Strategy, based on interviews with 18 key informants and a survey of 64 businesses
- Staff report on application to Northern Development Initiative Trust's Community Places Program for a gazebo in Telegraph Creek
- Staff report on Northern Development Initiative Trust Marketing Initiatives applications for investment attraction materials and a workforce/resident attraction campaign
- Economic Development Strategic Plan Update - January 2021 report from the Economic Development Officer
North West Regional Hospital District Board
The North West Regional Hospital District Board meets Friday, January 22, 2021 at 11:00 AM, virtually via Microsoft Teams, to receive reports including a 2021 draft budget and five-year plan, renewal of a Memorandum of Understanding with Nisga'a Lisims Government, and a Northern Health capital plan update. The board will also receive correspondence on the appointment of Peter Leeson as a Nisga'a director and several Northern Health capital project claim letters. The meeting opens with an in-camera session closed to the public under Community Charter sections 90(1)(i), (j), and (k).
- 2021 Draft Budget and 5 Year Plan report from Administration (Jan 15, 2021)
- Renewal of Memorandum of Understanding with Nisga'a Lisims Government
- Nisga'a Lisims Government appoints Peter Leeson to the board, effective immediately
- Mills Memorial Hospital Chiller project (Bylaw 118, 2019) final claim: NWRHD portion $19,379.80, total project $564,959.15
- Mills Memorial Hospital OR Video Tower (Bylaw 126, 2020) final claim: NWRHD portion $86,331.17, total project $215,827.92
North West Regional Hospital District Board - Statutory Meeting
The North West Regional Hospital District Board meets January 22, 2021 at the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine board room in Terrace, B.C., with attendance virtual via Microsoft Teams. The agenda is largely procedural: it covers the 2021 roster of votes, election of a chair, and election of vice chairs. No budget, contract, or policy items appear on this agenda.
- Statutory meeting held at 4545 Lazelle Avenue, Terrace, B.C., with virtual attendance via Microsoft Teams
- Review of the 2021 North West Regional Hospital District Roster of Votes
- Election of Chair
- Election of Vice Chairs
- Directors represent communities including Terrace, Kitimat, Smithers, Houston, Prince Rupert, and Nisga'a Nation
Regional District Board Meeting
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Board meets January 22, 2021, starting with a closed session on land and service negotiations before reconvening publicly at 7:00 p.m. Delegations include the District of Kitimat's Solid Waste Management Strategy, the Tahltan Fibre Connectivity Initiative, and a Copper Estates water reform petition. The Board will also consider reports on transit agreements, gas tax funds, a landfill feasibility study contract, and Bylaw No. 750 on Hazeltons' regional transit.
- District of Kitimat delegation presents Solid Waste Management Strategy and Action Plan, requesting RDKS process residential and commercial organics at Forceman Ridge starting October 2021
- Tahltan Nation Development Corporation presents Fibre Connectivity Initiative and requests a letter of support
- Copper Estates Water Reform Petition presented by Joel Manning, recommended for staff verification
- Report on contract award for Iskut Landfill Feasibility Study
- Bylaw No. 750 (KS Hazeltons' Regional Transit Local Service Establishment Amendment) receives 1st and 2nd reading
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Committee of the Whole meets January 22, 2021 to receive two finance reports: one proposing a 25% increase to the Hazeltons' Regional Transit maximum tax requisition, and one presenting the 2021 Draft Budget and Five-Year Financial Plan with 18 recommendations. The transit bylaw would raise the annual requisition ceiling to $46,875 or $0.38 per $1,000 of net taxable value, whichever is greater, to address years of operating deficits. The budget report also proposes 25% requisition or fee increases for Upper Skeena Recreation Centre, Thornhill Water System, and Queensway Sewer, plus allocation of the Kemano grant-in-lieu. No decisions are recorded in the agenda; items are recommendations for the Board's direction.
- Bylaw No. 750 would raise Hazeltons' Regional Transit maximum requisition 25%, to $46,875 or $0.38/$1,000 of net taxable value
- Transit function has run deficits since 2015, peaking at $63,063 in 2019; 2020 deficit projected near $37,000
- 2021 Draft Budget and Five-Year Financial Plan presented with 18 recommendations, including a special meeting Feb 10 and public input meeting Feb 26
- Proposed 25% requisition increases for Upper Skeena Recreation Centre and Thornhill Water System, and 25% user fee increases for Thornhill Water and Queensway Sewer
- Kemano grant-in-lieu allocation proposed across service areas, with remainder to General Government estimated at $265,000
Planning Committee
The Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine Planning Committee meets January 22, 2021 to adopt its December 11, 2020 minutes and receive a Land Use Applications Status Report from the Director of Planning and Development Services. The agenda also includes a resolution to exclude the public and convene a closed session under Section 226(1) of the Local Government Act, citing Section 90(1)(e) of the Community Charter regarding land or improvements. No new bylaws, contracts, or public hearings are scheduled for decision at this meeting.
- Receive Land Use Applications Status Report (Jan 12, 2021) for information only
- Adopt minutes of the December 11, 2020 Planning Committee meeting
- Closed session proposed under Community Charter s.90(1)(e) on acquisition, disposition, or expropriation of land or improvements
- Status report notes Zoning Amendment Bylaws 747 and 743 (2020) at third reading, with second public hearings scheduled Jan 27, 2021 (virtual)
- Status report notes a Development Variance Permit at 1450 Westside Rd., Lakelse Lake, approved for a side yard setback variance