Nelson public meetings in 2021
71 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Special Council
Nelson City Council is meeting to consider adopting a new Snow and Ice Control Policy and Plan, which sets priorities for clearing roads, sidewalks, and stairs during winter. The policy follows a Supreme Court of Canada decision and aims to guide staff and inform the public. Council will also receive a presentation on the 2022 Operating Budget.
- Adopt Snow and Ice Control Policy No. 5400.11.010, rescinding Policy No. 5400.11.005
- Approve Snow and Ice Control Plan and circulate to public
- 2022 Operating Budget presentation
- Policy sets five priority levels for road plowing, with bare surface on Priority 1 and 2 roads
- Sidewalk and stair clearing responsibilities outlined, with City responsible for designated routes
Nelson Police Board Regular Meeting
The Nelson Police Board is meeting virtually to discuss routine business, including adoption of the agenda and consent items, and to receive reports from the Chief Constable and directors. A key item is the board's consideration of the Nelson Police Department's response to the BC Human Rights Commissioner's report on racial disparities in policing, along with a letter from the West Kootenay People for Racial Justice. The meeting is largely procedural, with no public attendance permitted under provincial order.
- Discussion of BC Human Rights Commissioner report on racial disparities in policing and NPD response
- Letter from West Kootenay People for Racial Justice regarding the report
- Update on Diversity Advisory Committee
- Chief Constable's reports on BCAMCP/BCACP, community policing, and Nelson Police Foundation
- Action list includes strategic plan development and BCAPB 2022 conference planning
Committee of the Whole
This Committee of the Whole meeting will feature presentations of various awards, including Sustainability Leadership, Heritage, Cultural Ambassador, and Sports Ambassador. The agenda also includes adoption of previous minutes, public participation, and council reports. No specific decisions or proposals are listed beyond the award recognitions.
- Sustainability Leadership Awards presentation
- Heritage Award presentation
- Cultural Ambassador presentation
- Sports Ambassador presentation
- Public participation period (max 15 minutes)
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular council meeting that will immediately move into a closed session under Section 90 of the Community Charter to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition. The public portion consists only of adopting the agenda and minutes from the November 9, 2021 special meeting. No public decisions or discussions are scheduled.
- Closed session under Section 90(1)(c)(e)(g) for labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition
- Adoption of minutes from November 9, 2021 special meeting
- Meeting at Council Chambers, 310 Ward Street, Nelson, BC
Regular Council
Council will decide whether to pass a resolution supporting the Nelson Fentanyl Task Force and regional Community Action Teams in harm reduction efforts. The agenda also includes several development variance permit applications, a temporary use application, and readings of bylaws amending the five-year financial plan, hydro rates, and fees and charges.
- Resolution supporting Nelson Fentanyl Task Force for grant applications and regional collaboration
- Development variance permit applications at 405 John St, 2401 Perrier Lane, 2417 Perrier Lane
- Temporary use application at 704 Railway Street
- Five Year Financial Plan (2021-2025) Amendment Bylaw No. 3539, 2021
- Hydro Services Amendment Bylaws No. 3536 & 3537 (2021) and Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3538, 2021
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is receiving presentations on the 'Together Nelson' poverty reduction strategy, the annual library budget, and the Nelson Police Department budget. The agenda also includes adoption of previous minutes and public participation. No formal decisions are scheduled beyond receiving the presentations.
- Presentation of 'Together Nelson' poverty reduction plan (2022-2026)
- Annual Library Budget Presentation
- Annual Nelson Police Department Budget Presentation
- Adoption of minutes from October 26, 2021 meeting
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular Council meeting that will adopt minutes from two prior budget meetings and then move into a closed (in camera) session. The closed portion will address municipal awards, labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition. The agenda is largely procedural, with the substantive decisions occurring behind closed doors.
- Adoption of minutes from October 26 and October 29, 2021 special meetings
- Closed session under Section 90(1)(b)(c)(e)(g) of the Community Charter
- Items closed to public: municipal awards, labour relations, litigated matters, land disposition
Special Council
This is a special council meeting agenda with mostly procedural items. The only substantive item is a staff addendum presenting Council Priorities under the 'Nelson Next' initiative, which council will hear as a presentation.
- Council Priorities - Nelson Next Presentation (Addenda, pages 3-46)
Nelson Police Board Regular Meeting
The Nelson Police Board is meeting virtually to handle routine business, including adopting the agenda and consent agenda, receiving reports from the Chief Constable and directors, and reviewing the action list. The board will vote on approving the 2022 meeting calendar and will discuss a provincial police board training program and the formation of a board advisory group. The meeting is procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings on the agenda.
- Approve 2022 meeting calendar (meetings scheduled monthly, no August meeting)
- Discuss Board Advisory Group for provincial police board training program
- Receive Chief Constable's reports on BCAMCP/BCACP and Nelson Police Foundation
- Review action list including Diversity Advisory Committee updates and strategic plan process
- Adopt consent agenda including October 13, 2021 minutes
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular council meeting that will go into a closed session to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition. The agenda includes adopting minutes from previous meetings and a resolution to exclude the public. Most of the substantive business will be handled in camera.
- Resolution to close meeting to public under Section 90(1)(c)(e)(g) of Community Charter
- Adoption of minutes from October 12 and October 18, 2021 special meetings
- In camera items may be released to the public later in the meeting
Regular Council
Council will consider three bylaw amendments: waiving sidewalk café fees for 2022, replacing the outdated development application procedures bylaw, and amending hydro services bylaws. It will also review a FireSmart grant application, appoint an approving officer, and receive the third-quarter financial update. The meeting includes adoption of previous minutes and routine reports.
- Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3538, 2021: waives sidewalk café application and renewal fees until Dec 31, 2022; seasonal fees only for temporary expansions
- Development Application Procedures Bylaw No. 3526, 2021: replaces 2012 bylaw, clarifies public information session requirements
- Hydro Services Amendment Bylaws Nos 3536 & 3537, 2021
- UBCM - CRI FireSmart Community Funding and Support Grant Application
- Appointment of Approving Officer
Special Council
This is a special council meeting agenda for the City of Nelson. The main substantive item is a staff recommendation on the utility rates budget, included as an addendum. The rest of the agenda consists of standard procedural items such as adopting the agenda and minutes.
- Budget - Utility Rates (addendum, pages 2-43)
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
Council will consider final adoption of Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 3535, 2021, granting property tax exemptions to various nonprofit organizations. The meeting also includes a presentation on Nelson Hydro's budget and a resolution to close the meeting to the public for labour, litigation, and land disposition matters.
- Final adoption of Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 3535, 2021, with 10-year, 3-year, and 1-year exemptions for nonprofits
- Granite Pointe Golf Club receives only a 1-year partial exemption due to potential development
- Nelson Hydro budget presentation continued from October 18
- Resolution to close meeting to public for labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition
- Adoption of minutes from September 28, 2021 special meeting
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is receiving three informational presentations: an update on Cottonwood Park upgrades tied to the Railtown plan, a Chamber of Commerce report on local business conditions with a request to extend the temporary patio bylaw into 2022, and a BC Transit proposal for a transit exchange on the 300 block of Victoria Street. No decisions are being made at this meeting; the patio bylaw request will go to a future Regular Council meeting.
- Cottonwood Park upgrades: new washroom/concession, lighting, electrical to stage, parking plaza, waterfall viewing area
- City selling properties at 710, 712, 714 Railway St for housing
- Chamber of Commerce requests extending temporary patio bylaw through April–October 2022
- BC Transit proposes transit exchange on 300 block Victoria St, with revised washroom and parking plans
- Public participation limited to 15 minutes
Special Council
This is a special council meeting where Nelson Hydro staff present a detailed overview of the utility's 2021 accomplishments and 2022 business plan, including the EcoSave program, capital projects, and regulatory filings. Council is also asked to consider a budget adjustment request from the Finance Department. The agenda is primarily informational, with no specific decisions listed.
- EcoSave on-bill financing: 115 loans totaling $934,000, with $290,000 outstanding
- EcoSave E-bike program: 90 loans approved, saving 124,386 km and 1,096 tCO2e
- 2022 vegetation management budget: $850,000
- 2021 GRA interim rate increase of 3.32% effective April 1, 2021
- Budget adjustment request from Finance Department (pages 86-106)
Nelson Police Board Regular Meeting
The Nelson Police Board is meeting virtually to adopt the agenda and previous minutes, receive the Chief Constable's financial and operational reports, and discuss items arising from prior meetings, including the Diversity Advisory Committee and agenda structure. The board will also hear updates on community policing, restorative justice, and provincial policing standards.
- Financial report shows police services $2,582,162 spent YTD against $3,676,527 budget, 4.37% under budget
- Community policing activities include school zone patrols, bike path patrols, and homeless camp fire-risk education
- Restorative justice coordinator hiring nearing completion; Sophie De Pouw staying as school liaison
- Crime statistics from September: violent crimes down 38.5%, non-violent crimes up 11%, solve rates down ~5%
- Provincial policing standards target date set for July 2024
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular council meeting that will immediately move into a closed session to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition. The agenda also includes adopting minutes from previous meetings. The public portion is minimal, with the substantive items handled in camera.
- Closed session under Community Charter Section 90(1)(c)(e)(g) for labour, litigation, land
- Adoption of minutes from September 7, 2021 special and public hearing meetings
Regular Council
The Nelson City Council is meeting to decide on two bylaws: one to update council procedures to allow electronic meetings and participation under certain conditions, and another to grant permissive tax exemptions to qualifying organizations. The agenda also includes adoption of previous minutes and routine reports.
- Council Procedure Amendment Bylaw No. 3534, 2021 - first three readings to allow electronic meetings during declared emergencies and expand electronic participation rules
- Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 3535, 2021 - first three readings to exempt properties from municipal taxes
- Adoption of September 7, 2021 Regular Meeting minutes
- Reports and minutes from committees and commissions
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular council meeting of the City of Nelson, held virtually on September 28, 2021. The agenda is almost entirely procedural, with the main substantive item being a resolution to close the meeting to the public to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and disposition of land or improvements. No decisions or discussions are listed on the open agenda.
- Resolution to close meeting to public under Section 90(1)(c)(e)(g) of the Community Charter
- Items to be discussed in camera: labour relations, litigated matters, disposition of land or improvements
- Meeting held virtually due to Provincial Order M192
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is meeting to receive staff presentations, including an update on the Low Carbon Homes Pilot, which aims to reduce embodied carbon emissions in new buildings. The agenda also includes delegations on embodied carbon and the Nest Lab, plus a farewell to Pam Mierau. The meeting will also adopt minutes from previous meetings and allow public participation.
- Staff presentation on Embodied Carbon / Low Carbon Homes Pilot
- Staff delegation on Nest Lab Update
- Farewell to Pam Mierau
- Adoption of minutes from June 29 and July 27, 2021 meetings
- Public participation period (max 15 minutes)
Nelson Police Board Regular Meeting
The Nelson Police Board is meeting virtually to adopt the agenda and minutes, receive reports from the Chief Constable and directors, and discuss new business including 2020 Crime Severity Index statistics, a CAPG conference, and provincial policing standards on unbiased policing. The agenda also includes correspondence about the retirement of a bylaw officer and community thank-you messages.
- Review of 2020 Crime Severity Index and Weighted Clearance Rate data
- Discussion of Provincial Policing Standards - Promotion of Unbiased Policing
- CAPG Conference registration (previous meeting approved $850 registration)
- Correspondence on retirement of Bylaw Officer Fred Thomson after 31 years
- Community thank-you messages to Nelson Police Department
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular council meeting that will immediately move into a closed session to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition, as permitted under the Community Charter. The agenda includes adoption of previous minutes and a resolution to exclude the public. No open-session decisions or public items are listed.
- Resolution to close meeting under Section 90(1)(c)(e)(g) for labour, litigation, land
- Adoption of August 17, 2021 special meeting minutes
- Virtual meeting only, no physical attendance
Regular Council
Council will consider approving a regulation-sized basketball court at Lakeside Park, proposed by Nelson Hoops, with up to $7,500 in-kind city support. They will also decide on directing staff to explore relocating the bocce courts. The agenda includes several bylaws for readings and staff recommendations on strata conversion and affordable housing.
- Approve Lakeside Park as permanent location for basketball courts, with in-kind support up to $7,500
- Direct staff to engage Nelson Italian Canadian Society on bocce court relocation
- Latecomer Interest Rate Bylaw No. 3529 - readings
- Municipal Officers Bylaw No. 3530 - readings
- Zoning Bylaw No. 3531 and Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 3532 (MU8 Zone) - readings
Public Hearing
Nelson City Council is holding a public hearing to consider two bylaws that would replace the existing Neighbourhood Commercial (C3) zone with a new Neighbourhood Mixed-Use (MU8) zone, allowing up to three residential units alongside required commercial space. The changes affect two properties: 1224 Stanley Street and 1516 Crease Avenue. The hearing is being held virtually due to COVID-19, and no correspondence from the public had been received as of September 1, 2021.
- Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3531, 2021: replaces C3 zone with MU8 zone
- OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 3532, 2021: changes land use designation to Neighbourhood Mixed-Use
- Affected properties: 1224 Stanley Street and 1516 Crease Avenue
- MU8 zone allows up to 3 residential units plus commercial space (max 93 sq m)
- Public hearing held virtually on September 7, 2021
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular Council meeting that will be closed to the public for most of its duration, with the agenda focused on adopting minutes from previous meetings and then moving into an in-camera session. The closed session will address labour relations, litigated matters, and disposition of land or improvements, as permitted under the Community Charter. The meeting is largely procedural, with no open public hearings or decisions scheduled.
- Adoption of minutes from June 29, July 13, and July 27, 2021 special meetings
- Resolution to close meeting to public under Section 90(1)(c)(e)(g) for labour, litigation, land disposition
- In-camera session on labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition
- Possible release of in-camera items to the public after closed session
Regular Council
Nelson City Council is meeting virtually to decide on several items, including a request from the Rural Empowered Drug Users Network (REDUN) to urge the federal government to declare the overdose crisis a national public health emergency and to support its outreach program. Council will also consider first three readings of a bylaw setting the interest rate for latecomer agreements, a strata conversion at 616 Railway Street, and a Long Service Award Policy. The agenda includes routine adoption of minutes and information items.
- REDUN request: letter to federal government on overdose crisis; support for outreach program
- Latecomer Interest Rate Bylaw No. 3529, 2021 (first three readings)
- Strata conversion at 616 Railway Street
- Long Service Award Policy
- Second Quarter Financial Update
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
Council is deciding whether to give first and second reading to three bylaws that would replace the existing Neighbourhood Commercial (C3) zone with a new Neighbourhood Mixed-Use (MU8) zone, allowing up to three residential units plus small-scale commercial uses. The proposal follows requests from property owners of two former convenience store sites. If approved, a public hearing will be scheduled. The meeting also includes a closed session for labour, litigation, and land disposition matters.
- Zoning Amendment (MU8 Zone) Bylaw No. 3531, 2021 - first and second reading
- OCP Amendment (Neighbourhood Commercial Designation Change) Bylaw No. 3532, 2021 - first and second reading
- Off-Street Parking and Landscaping Amendment (MU8 Zone) Bylaw No. 3533 - first, second, and third reading
- New MU8 zone allows up to 3 residential units plus commercial (max 93 sq.m), with commercial use mandatory
- Public hearing to be scheduled if readings pass
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is receiving two presentations for information: the Nelson Hoops Association's proposal to redevelop the outdoor basketball court at Lakeside Park, and staff's results from a community consultation on reducing speed limits. No decisions are being made; both items are for Council's information only.
- Nelson Hoops Association proposes redeveloping Lakeside Park basketball court, estimated cost $174,313
- Proposal includes relocating bocce lanes and building a regulation court with 4-6 hoops
- Community consultation on speed reduction drew over 300 participants; majority not in favor of blanket 30 km/h
- Common themes: reduce speed in school zones/parks, better intersections, traffic calming, more enforcement
- City's Traffic Bylaw allows lowering speed limits with proper signage
Nelson Police Board Regular Meeting
The Nelson Police Board is meeting virtually to adopt the agenda and minutes, receive the Chief Constable's financial report, and discuss updates on community policing, fentanyl, and advisory committees. The board will also consider correspondence from the West Kootenay People for Racial Justice regarding a Diversity Advisory Committee and a survey on policing, as well as submissions on reforming the BC Police Act.
- Financial Report to June 30, 2021 shows total police services spending at $1,815,936, about 0.2% under budget
- Correspondence from West Kootenay People for Racial Justice supporting Diversity Advisory Committee and survey
- WKPRJ submissions on BC Police Act reform, including calls to ban street checks and decriminalize sex work
- Discussion of Chief Constable Advisory Committee and Restorative Justice Advisory Committee reports
- Next meeting scheduled for September 8, 2021
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular council meeting held virtually, with the main substantive portion closed to the public under Section 90(1)(c), (e), and (g) of the Community Charter to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and disposition of land or improvements. The agenda is otherwise procedural, consisting of call to order, agenda adoption, and adjournment.
- Closed session authorized for labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition
- Meeting held virtually with no physical attendance permitted
- Aboriginal acknowledgement of Ktunaxa, Syilx, Sinixt, and Métis territories
Regular Council
Nelson City Council will consider three development variance permit applications for properties on Third, Silica, and Ward Streets, as well as a request from the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy to approve the StoryShare project in Art Gibbon Memorial Park. The agenda also includes a 'Welcome to Nelson' sign design competition and a Covid Recovery Grant Program. The meeting will be held virtually due to Provincial Order M192.
- Development Variance Permit for 411 Third Street to reduce rear yard setback from 4.5m to 1.5m for an attached garage with art studio and elevator
- Development Variance Permit for 516 Silica Street
- Development Variance Permit for 1021 Ward Street
- Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy StoryShare project request for Art Gibbon Memorial Park with in-kind city support
- Covid Recovery Grant Program and 'Welcome to Nelson' Sign Design Competition
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is receiving presentations, including the RDCK's draft Resource Recovery Plan, which outlines regional waste reduction and disposal strategies over the next decade. The meeting also includes updates from Nelson at its Best and ANKORS. The agenda is primarily informational, with no decisions scheduled.
- RDCK draft Resource Recovery Plan presentation
- Nelson at its Best - Nelson Together update
- ANKORS - Rural Empowered Drug Users Network presentation
- Adoption of minutes from May 25, 2021 meeting
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular Council meeting where members will consider the 2020 Annual Report, which includes audited financial statements and a review of the past year's operations. After that, Council will move into a closed session to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition, as permitted under the Community Charter.
- 2020 Annual Report presented for acceptance
- 2020 Statement of Financial Information
- Closed session for labour relations, litigation, and land disposition
- Meeting held virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions
Regular Council
Council will consider a request from a resident to exempt her property from the Animal Regulation and Control Bylaw, which prohibits keeping poultry. Staff recommend denying the request, citing concerns about attracting bears and other wildlife. The meeting also includes several other items, including fee amendments and a proposed disc golf course.
- Request for exemption from Animal Regulation and Control Bylaw No. 2333 to keep 4 hens and 2 ducks at 517a Wasson Street
- Fees and Charges Amendment (Parks and Facilities) Bylaw No. 3527, 2021
- Fees and Charges Amendment (Curb Cut Fees) Bylaw No. 3528, 2021
- Art Gibbon Park - Disc Golf Course
- Amended Permissive Tax Exemption Policy
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular council meeting that will immediately move into a closed session under Section 90 of the Community Charter to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition. The open portion is limited to adopting the agenda and minutes; no public decisions are listed.
- Closed session under Section 90(1)(c)(e)(g) for labour relations, litigation, land disposition
- Adoption of May 25, 2021 special meeting minutes
- Meeting held virtually per Provincial Order M192
Nelson Police Board Regular Meeting
The Nelson Police Board is meeting virtually to adopt the agenda and previous minutes, receive the Chief Constable's financial report, and get updates on community survey options, the Diversity Advisory Committee, and a recent fentanyl seizure. The board will also receive correspondence and information items, including a media release about the drug bust.
- Financial report shows police services spending $1,555,694 YTD against a $3,654,509 budget, about 1.2% over budget
- Update on fentanyl: 210 grams seized in May 2021, largest NPD seizure to date; three Ontario residents arrested
- Community survey options update following May discussion of Thought-Exchange vs standard survey
- Diversity Advisory Committee update; Chief Fisher met with UVic advisor Dr. Moussa Magassa
- Correspondence includes media release on the fentanyl trafficking arrest
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular Council meeting with two staff recommendations: passing a resolution to support a Local Government Development Approvals Program grant application, and approving the 2021 Lakeside Park path paving capital project. The meeting also includes adoption of previous minutes and a closed session for labour, litigation, and land disposition matters.
- Resolution in support of LGDAP grant application to UBCM
- 2021 Capital Projects - Lakeside Park Path Paving Project
- Closed meeting under Section 90(1)(c)(e)(g) for labour, litigation, land disposition
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is receiving three informational presentations: the Selkirk COVID Rapid Response Team's business support program, the Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy's StoryShare concept, and a staff update on the City-operated Farmers' Market. No decisions are scheduled; the agenda is otherwise procedural.
- Selkirk College/Community Futures COVID Rapid Response Team presentation
- Columbia Basin Alliance for Literacy StoryShare presentation (proposed Art Gibbon Park location)
- Farmers' Market update: 46 markets planned in 2021, $40,000+ in coupons in 2020
- Adoption of April 27, 2021 Committee of the Whole minutes
Nelson Police Board Regular Meeting
The Nelson Police Board is meeting virtually to consider adopting a revised strategic plan, approving policies for public delegations and participation (currently restricted by public health orders), and receiving reports from the Chief Constable and committees. The agenda also includes a presentation on community survey options and a response letter to West Kootenay People for Racial Justice.
- Adoption of revised 2018-2023 strategic plan
- Approval of delegation and public participation policies (virtual-only due to health orders)
- Presentation on community survey options by City Communications Coordinator
- Nomination of a BC representative to CAPG Board of Directors
- Receipt of financial report and board response letter to WKPRJ
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular council meeting that will be closed to the public to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition. The agenda includes adopting the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting, then moving into a closed session. No public decisions are scheduled.
- Closed meeting under Section 90(1)(c)(e)(g) of the Community Charter
- Adoption of April 13, 2021 special meeting minutes
- Items to be discussed: labour relations, litigated matters, land disposition
Regular Council
Nelson City Council is holding its regular meeting on May 11, 2021, where it will decide on three development variance permit applications (902 Tenth Street, 1023 Observatory Street, 758 HWY 3A), adopt two fee amendment bylaws (field use and curb cut fees), and consider adopting a source protection plan for Five Mile, Anderson, and Selous Creeks. The meeting is virtual due to Provincial Order M192.
- Development Variance Permit for 902 Tenth Street to reduce rear setback from 4.5m to 2.2m for a garage addition
- Development Variance Permit for 1023 Observatory Street
- Development Variance Permit for 758 HWY 3A
- Fees and Charges Amendment (Field Use) Bylaw No. 3527, 2021
- Public Works - Curb Cut Policy Update and Fees and Charges Amendment (Curb Cut Fees) Bylaw No. 3528, 2021
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is meeting to receive three informational presentations: Community Futures on the Rural and North Immigration Pilot (RNIP), Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism on the state of regional tourism during the pandemic, and Nelson Hydro on vegetation management best practices. No decisions are scheduled; the agenda is otherwise procedural, including adoption of minutes and public participation.
- RNIP presentation: 105 recommendations since May 2020, 44 for Nelson employers, pilot available until Dec 2022 with ~150 allocations/year
- Tourism update: NKLT reports 2020 and 2021 devastating to industry, MRDT down significantly, summer 2020 up 30%
- Nelson Hydro vegetation management: consultant review of practices, focus on rural areas with higher vegetation density
- Public participation period (max 15 minutes)
- Adoption of March 23, 2021 Committee of the Whole minutes
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
The Nelson City Council is holding a special regular meeting on April 27, 2021, to consider a request from the Friends of Kootenay Lake Stewardship Society to cover tipping fees (up to $440) for disposing of two derelict boats near the ferry building site off Sprout Drive. The meeting will also include a closed session for matters related to labour relations, litigation, and land disposition. The agenda includes adoption of previous minutes and a staff recommendation on Community Initiatives Program funding allocations.
- Request to cover tipping fees up to $440 for disposal of two derelict boats near Sprout Drive ferry building site
- Community Initiatives Program - Funding Allocations (staff recommendation)
- Closed meeting under Section 90(1)(c)(e)(g) for labour relations, litigation, and land disposition
- Adoption of minutes from March 23, 2021 special meeting
Nelson Police Board Regular Meeting
The Nelson Police Board will decide whether to stop live-streaming its regular meetings and instead post recordings to the NPD website the next day, citing technology difficulties. The board will also receive the Chief Constable's financial report, discuss agenda structure changes, and follow up on an April 8 meeting with West Kootenay People for Racial Justice about racism and building trust with BIPOC communities.
- Proposal to replace live-streamed board meetings with recorded videos posted the next day
- Financial report to March 31, 2021 shows police services under budget by 2.21%
- Update on April 8 meeting with WKPRJ on systemic racism and community trust
- Discussion of agenda structure and which reports the board wants to see
- Adoption of March 10, 2021 meeting minutes
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular council meeting that will go into a closed session to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition. The agenda includes adopting minutes from previous meetings and a resolution to exclude the public for these confidential items.
- Closed session under Section 90(1)(c)(e)(g) of Community Charter
- Adoption of minutes from March 9 and 16, 2021 meetings
- Items include labour relations, litigated matters, land disposition
Regular Council
Nelson City Council's April 13, 2021 regular meeting includes decisions on three development variance permit applications (519 Carbonate Street, 614 Mill Street, 814 Latimer Street), a new permanent sidewalk cafe at 422 Vernon Street, and first readings of the 2021 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 3524 and Tax Rate Bylaw No. 3525. The agenda also includes staff recommendations on BC Transit, a FireSmart grant, a Nelson Hydro asset management grant, and properties at 710 & 712 Railway Street. The meeting is held virtually due to provincial COVID-19 orders.
- Development variance permit applications at 519 Carbonate Street, 614 Mill Street, and 814 Latimer Street
- New permanent sidewalk cafe at 422 Vernon Street
- Financial Plan Bylaw No. 3524, 2021 and Tax Rate Bylaw No. 3525, 2021
- BC Transit transit exchange discussion
- UBCM 2021 Firesmart Economic Recovery Fund grant
Budget Open House
The City of Nelson is hosting a budget open house to discuss its 2021 budget with residents. The meeting is live-streamed and begins with an Aboriginal acknowledgement. No specific budget items are listed in the agenda.
- Live streamed at www.nelson.ca
- Aboriginal acknowledgement for Ktunaxa, Syilx, and Sinixt peoples
Special Council
Nelson City Council is holding a special meeting to consider two staff recommendations. First, they will review a request from Nelson Hydro to add $875,500 to its 2021 budget to cover costs from a January wind storm and February cold snap, funded by a transfer from the Capital Reserve. Second, they will consider passing a bylaw to waive sidewalk café fees for 2021 to support downtown restaurants during provincial COVID-19 restrictions.
- Nelson Hydro requests $875,500 budget increase for storm and demand costs
- Transfer of $534,522 from Capital Reserve, reducing it to about $7.23 million
- Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3523 to waive sidewalk café fees until Dec 31, 2021
- Waiving fees represents about $45,000 in lost annual revenue
- Council to pass first, second, and third readings of the bylaw
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular Council meeting with a public portion and a closed (in camera) session. In the open portion, Council will consider a request from NCOH for a UBCM grant for a Community Services Hub, a letter of support for Foresight, and a Hydro Services Amendment Bylaw. The meeting will then close to the public to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition under Section 90 of the Community Charter.
- NCOH request for UBCM grant for Community Services Hub
- Foresight letter of support request
- Hydro Services Amendment (Rural Rural) Bylaw No. 3518, 2021
- Closed session for labour relations, litigation, and land disposition
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is receiving informational presentations, with no decisions scheduled. Delegations include the Nelson Baseball Association's Queen Elizabeth Park capital project, the West Kootenay 100% Renewable Energy Plan, and BC Transit updates on the Regional Transit Plan and Exchange. The agenda also includes adoption of previous minutes and public participation.
- Nelson Baseball Association presentation on Queen Elizabeth Park renovations, including $117,000 from Toronto Blue Jays Jay Care Foundation
- West Kootenay 100% Renewable Energy Plan presentation; four municipalities have already approved it
- BC Transit Regional Transit Plan presentation
- BC Transit Exchange update presentation
- Adoption of February 23, 2021 Committee of the Whole minutes
Special Council
This is a special council meeting held virtually, with the main substantive item being staff recommendations on the budget. The rest of the agenda consists of routine procedural items such as adopting the agenda and minutes.
- Staff recommendation on Budget
Nelson Police Board Regular Meeting
The Nelson Police Board is meeting virtually to adopt the agenda and minutes, receive the Chief Constable's financial report, and discuss business arising from previous meetings, including a Diversity Advisory Committee. The board will also confirm receipt of a letter from West Kootenay People for Racial Justice (WKPRJ) requesting acknowledgement of systemic racism within the Nelson Police Department and a meeting with the new Chief Constable.
- Discussion of Diversity Advisory Committee and assignment of directors to develop a process
- Receipt and acceptance of the Financial Report to February 28, 2021 (total police services under budget by 2.59%)
- Confirmation of receipt of February 5, 2021 letter from WKPRJ regarding systemic racism and community engagement
- Updates on BCAMCP/BCACP, Community Policing, Nelson Police Foundation, Restorative Justice, and Fentanyl task force
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular council meeting held virtually due to the pandemic. The agenda is mostly procedural, with the main substantive item being a resolution to close the meeting to the public to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition under the Community Charter. No other decisions or discussions are listed on the public agenda.
- Resolution to close meeting to public under Section 90(1)(c), (e), (g) of Community Charter
- Closed session topics: labour relations, litigated matters, disposition of land or improvements
- Meeting held virtually, no physical attendance permitted
Regular Council
Nelson City Council will consider three development variance permit requests, including one for 1213 Stanley Street to reduce the front setback from 4.5 to 2 metres to build a second-storey addition with a secondary suite. The meeting also includes several zoning and fee bylaw amendments and a downtown parking strategy. The agenda is otherwise routine, with no other major decisions.
- Development Variance Permit for 1213 Stanley Street to reduce front setback from 4.5m to 2m for a second-storey addition
- Development Variance Permit for 2417 Perrier Lane to reduce front setback from 4.5m to 2.9m for a covered front entrance
- Development Variance Permit for 686 Bridge Bay Road
- Zoning Amendment (Downtown Area Cannabis Retail Update) Bylaw No. 3521, 2021
- Fees and Charges Amendment (Mobile Vending) Bylaw No. 3517, 2021
Public Hearing - 09 Mar 2021 (Zoning Amendment 3512)
Nelson City Council held a virtual public hearing on March 9, 2021, to consider Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3512, 2021, which proposes citywide changes including removing the maximum gross floor area for laneway houses, defining and prohibiting 'industrial-scale computing' (e.g., cryptocurrency mining and data centres), and permitting secondary suites within laneway houses. The hearing also covered Bylaw No. 3521, 2021, which would increase the downtown cannabis retail cap from two to three stores while maintaining a citywide cap of five. No members of the public registered to speak, and written submissions were accepted until March 8, 2021.
- Remove maximum gross floor area for laneway houses; increase building footprint limit from 80 sq. m. to 89 sq. m.
- Define and prohibit 'Industrial-Scale Computing' (electricity consumption over 9 megawatt-hours per month) citywide
- Permit secondary suites within laneway houses
- Increase downtown cannabis retail cap from 2 to 3 stores, maintaining citywide cap of 5
- Housekeeping amendments: delete redundant 'Restaurant, Drive Thru' definition, add 'Drive-Thru Restaurant' to prohibited uses
Public Hearing - 09 Mar 2021 (Zoning Amendment 3521)
Nelson City Council is holding a virtual public hearing on Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3521, 2021, which would increase the downtown cap on cannabis retail stores from two to three by reallocating permitted space from Nelson Avenue, keeping the citywide cap at five. The hearing is required before the bylaw can be adopted. No members of the public registered to speak, and written comments were accepted until March 8, 2021.
- Increase downtown cannabis retail store cap from 2 to 3, citywide cap remains 5
- Remove cannabis retail as a permitted use in the C2 zone (Nelson Avenue corridor)
- Cannabis retail stores limited to 500 m² gross floor area and 12 m storefront
- Public hearing held virtually due to COVID-19; no in-person attendance
- No public speakers registered for the hearing
CHANGE OF COMMAND CEREMONY 2021
The Nelson Police Board is holding a regular meeting that consists solely of a Change of Command Ceremony. The ceremony is reduced due to COVID-19 public health orders and will be live streamed, with no public attendance permitted.
- Change of Command Ceremony with participants including Mayor John Dooley, Chief Constable Paul Burkart, Superintendent Donovan Fisher, Staff Sergeant Brian Weber, and Detective Constable Sarah Hannah
- Ceremony held virtually due to Provincial Order M192
- Live streamed due to COVID-19 restrictions
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
Nelson City Council is deciding whether to pass a resolution endorsing a COVID-19 Resilience Infrastructure Stream (CVRIS) grant application for an accessibility upgrade at the Civic Centre, including a new elevator and lobby. Council will also approve a Ministerial Order allowing mail ballot voting and oral declarations for the March 27, 2021 by-election. The meeting includes a closed session for labour, litigation, and land disposition matters.
- CVRIS grant application for Civic Centre accessibility upgrade, estimated at $1,075,438, with up to 100% funding
- Resolution to approve Ministerial Order (MO 062) for mail ballot voting and oral declarations in the 2021 by-election
- Closed meeting under Section 90(1)(c)(e)(g) for labour relations, litigation, and land disposition
- Adoption of minutes from January 26, 2021 special meeting
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is meeting to receive presentations and reports, including from BC Assessment on property values, the 2020 Emergency Management Program annual report, the Nelson Committee on Homelessness, and updates from economic development partners. The agenda is largely informational, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.
- BC Assessment presentation on 2021 property assessments for Nelson (total value $2.44 billion, up 0.4%)
- 2020 Emergency Management Program annual report, required by BC's Emergency Program Act
- Nelson Committee on Homelessness presentation
- Nelson Area Economic Development Partnership and Nelson Innovation Centre update
Special Council
This special Council meeting is devoted to receiving updates from five arts and culture organizations affiliated with the City of Nelson, each given ten minutes to describe COVID-19 impacts, funding accessed, and future plans. Staff recommend Council receive the updates for information only; no decisions are proposed. The agenda also includes a proposal for a $29,970 economic impact study of the arts and culture sector.
- Delegations from NDAC, Capitol Theatre, NAEDP, Touchstones, and Civic Theatre
- Proposed $29,970 economic impact study of arts and culture sector
- Study would cover City of Nelson, RDCK Electoral Areas E and F
- Council resolution from Jan 26, 2021 to invite arts sector to discuss COVID-19 impacts
Nelson Police Board Regular Meeting
The Nelson Police Board is meeting virtually to receive reports on the Alternative Complaint Resolution process and the Victoria Diversity Advisory Committee, along with the Chief Constable's financial report and updates on community policing, the police foundation, and fentanyl. The board will also appoint directors to the BCAPB Executive Board and adopt previous minutes. The agenda is largely routine, with no major policy decisions or public hearings.
- Presentation on Alternative Complaint Resolution process by Restorative Justice Coordinator Anita Werner
- Report on Victoria Diversity Advisory Committee by Victim Services Coordinator Barb Vincent
- Financial Report to January 31, 2021: total police services under budget by 1.51%
- Appointment of directors to BCAPB Executive Board
- Reappointment of Nelson Police Board Director confirmed
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular council meeting that will immediately move into a closed (in-camera) session to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition. The public portion will only handle routine items like adopting minutes and agenda. The agenda includes minutes from previous meetings, which show decisions on water billing refunds, a climate action plan, and budget discussions.
- Closed session under Section 90(1)(c)(e)(g) for labour, litigation, land
- Adoption of minutes from Dec 18, 2020, Jan 12, 2021, Jan 15, 2021
- Previous meeting: refunds to Rosemont Mobile Home Park owners ($22,277 + $20,333 + waived ~$6,300)
- Previous meeting: approved Nelson Next climate action plan
- Previous meeting: adopted 2021 water and wastewater rates bylaw
Regular Council
Nelson City Council is deciding whether to waive fees for a South Nelson Elementary pavilion project, including licence of occupation, building permit, and development variance permit fees. They will also consider a development variance permit for 715 Third St, a temporary use permit for ferry construction, and several bylaws including a zoning amendment for cannabis retail in the downtown area.
- South Nelson Elementary requests waiver of licence of occupation fee (~$3,219.29/yr), building permit fee (~$385), and DVP fee ($500) for pavilion at Latimer and Cedar Sts
- Development Variance Permit application for 715 Third St to increase accessory building height from 4.5m to 5.2m; staff recommend denial
- Temporary Use Permit for ferry construction
- Zoning Amendment (Downtown Area Cannabis Retail Update) Bylaw No. 3521, 2021
- Step Code - Building Amendment Bylaw No. 3508, 2021
Special Council
The City of Nelson's special council meeting on February 5, 2021, includes a staff recommendation to update council on the BC Energy Step Code, with a focus on potentially adopting Step 3 for new residential construction. The agenda also includes budget discussions, a COVID restart fund update, and a capital and reserves budget session. The meeting is held virtually due to provincial orders.
- Step Code update and discussion on adopting Step 3 for new construction
- Budget discussion and working session
- COVID Restart Fund update
- Budget capital and reserves session
Special Council - Budget
This special council meeting focuses on the 2021 capital budget, including a working session on facilities and a staff report on the Hall Street Pier project. The pier's estimated cost has risen from $1.225M to $3.368M, and staff recommend considering Option D, which would require an additional $884,500 in funding. The meeting is held virtually due to provincial COVID-19 orders.
- Hall Street Pier project update: cost estimate now $3,368,185, up from initial $1,225,600; Option D recommended for budget consideration
- Capital budget working session covering fleet, facilities, IT, active transportation, and public works/parks
- Facilities 2021-2025 capital plan includes $13.9M for new library, $5.3M for Civic Centre low-carbon renewal, and $1.08M for accessibility upgrades
- Proposed facilities budget: $5.659M in 2021, $9.78M in 2022, $6.409M in 2023, $4.25M in 2024, $1.37M in 2025
- Vacant property demolitions planned: 824 Front St and 402 Anderson St in 2021; 710 & 712 Railway St pending slope stability review
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole is meeting to receive presentations from seven cultural organizations—Cultural Development Committee, Nelson and District Arts Council, Capitol Theatre, Touchstones Museum, Kootenay Association of Science and Technology, Visitor Centre, and Nelson and Area Economic Development Partnership—each reviewing their 2020 operations and 2021 budget requests. The agenda also includes appointments of 2021 Sports and Cultural Ambassadors, the 2020 Heritage Award, and Sustainability Leadership Awards. No decisions are scheduled; all items are for information.
- Cultural Development Committee requests $60,900 for 2021 (no change from 2020)
- Heritage Working Group requests $22,750 from City, including $20,000 CBT grant cash contribution
- Nelson and District Arts Council requests $5,000 for 2021 activities
- 2021 Sports Ambassador and Cultural Ambassador appointments
- 2020 Heritage Award and Sustainability Leadership Awards presented
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular council meeting where the main public item is considering staff recommendations on topics for resolutions to submit to the 2021 Association of Kootenay Boundary Local Governments (AKBLG) Annual General Meeting. The council will also vote to close the meeting to the public to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition under Section 90 of the Community Charter. The agenda is largely procedural, with the substantive public decision being the endorsement of resolution topics.
- Consideration of staff recommendation to endorse topics for AKBLG 2021 AGM resolutions, with deadline of February 19, 2021
- Resolution to close meeting to public for labour relations, litigated matters, and land disposition (Section 90(1)(c)(e)(g))
- Meeting held virtually due to Provincial Order M192, no physical attendance permitted
Special Council meeting 15 Jan 2021
This special council meeting focuses on adopting the 2021 Water and Wastewater Rates Bylaw, which includes a 2% water and 1.5% wastewater rate increase for residential customers. The meeting also includes budget presentations for the Youth Centre, Development Services, and Fire Department, followed by a budget working session.
- Adoption of Fees and Charges Amendment (2021 Water and Wastewater Rates) Bylaw No. 3520
- 2% water and 1.5% wastewater rate increase for residential rates only
- No change to Industrial, Commercial, Institutional (ICI) water and wastewater rates
- Continue 75% rate discount for conforming secondary suites
- Budget presentations for Youth Centre, Development Services, and Fire Department
Nelson Police Board Regular Meeting
The Nelson Police Board is meeting virtually to adopt its agenda and minutes, receive the Chief Constable's financial report, and discuss the NPD Strategic Plan. A presentation on restorative justice was postponed to the February meeting. The board will also receive updates on community policing, the police foundation, and fentanyl.
- Adoption of December 22, 2020 minutes
- Receive and accept Financial Report
- Discussion of NPD Strategic Plan
- Restorative Justice Coordinator presentation postponed to February
- Update on West Kootenay People for Racial Justice questions
Regular Council
Nelson City Council will consider several development variance permits, including a front setback reduction at 1010 Carbonate Street, and will review zoning amendments for laneway housing and industrial-scale computing. Council will also vote on 2021 water and wastewater rate bylaws and other administrative items.
- Development Variance Permit for 1010 Carbonate Street to reduce front setback from 4.5m to 3m for a porch
- Development Variance Permit for 543 Baker Street
- Zoning Amendment Application for 356 Baker Street
- 2021 Water and Wastewater Rates Bylaw No. 3520
- Zoning Amendment (Laneway Housing, Industrial-Scale Computing, and Minor Amendments) Bylaw No. 3512
Special Regular Council meeting including items closed to the Public
This is a special regular council meeting held virtually. The agenda includes adopting minutes from six prior meetings and then a resolution to close the meeting to the public under Section 90(1)(c), (e), and (g) of the Community Charter to discuss labour relations, litigated matters, and disposition of land or improvements. The public portion is largely procedural, with the substantive discussions occurring in the closed session.
- Adoption of minutes from six prior special council meetings (Oct 30, Nov 12, Nov 27, Dec 3, Dec 7, Dec 14, 2020)
- Resolution to close meeting to public for labour relations, litigated matters, and disposition of land or improvements
- Meeting held virtually with no physical attendance permitted, pursuant to Provincial Order M192