Merritt public meetings in 2024

Merritt Special Council Meeting

The Merritt Special Council meeting on December 17, 2024 will consider adopting three bylaws: the City of Merritt Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2386, the Good Neighbour Bylaw 2387, and the Parks Regulation Bylaw No. 2385. Council will also hold a closed session under Section 90(1)(c) of the Community Charter regarding labour or employee relations. Previous meeting minutes and a CPO information report are also on the agenda.

• Adoption of City of Merritt Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2386, 2024
• Adoption of City of Merritt Good Neighbour Bylaw 2387, 2024
• Adoption of City of Merritt Parks Regulation Bylaw No. 2385, 2024
• Closed session for labour relations under Section 90(1)(c) of the Community Charter
• CPO Information Report for November 2024

At the December 17, 2024 special meeting, Council adopted three bylaws: the Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2386, the Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2387, and the Parks Regulation Bylaw No. 2385. All motions were carried. The meeting then moved into closed session for labour relations matters.

• Adopted City of Merritt Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2386, 2024 (carried)
• Adopted City of Merritt Good Neighbour Bylaw No. 2387, 2024 (carried)
• Adopted City of Merritt Parks Regulation Bylaw No. 2385, 2024 (carried)
• Closed meeting to public under Section 90(1)(c) of Community Charter (carried)

Police Committee

The Merritt Police Committee will adopt the minutes from its March 14, 2024 meeting. Staff Sergeant Roda will present the 2024 police statistics and updates for the Merritt RCMP Detachment for 2025. A year‑end CPO report for 2024 will also be reviewed. No decisions beyond the adoption of minutes are listed.

• Adopt minutes from Police Committee Meeting – March 14, 2024
• Presentation of 2024 police statistics by Staff Sergeant Roda
• Presentation of Merritt RCMP Detachment 2025 updates by Staff Sergeant Roda
• Review of Year‑End 2024 CPO Report

The committee received updates on 2024 crime statistics and RCMP detachment plans for 2025. No formal decisions were made beyond adopting the previous minutes with a spelling correction.

• Adopted March 14, 2024 minutes as amended (carried)

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

Council will give first, second, and third readings to three bylaws: Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2386, Good Neighbour Bylaw 2387, and Parks Regulation Bylaw No. 2385. Council will also consider adopting a Video Surveillance and Recording at Municipal Properties Policy. Information items include letters from other municipalities regarding transit regionalization.

• First, second, third readings of Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2386
• First, second, third readings of Good Neighbour Bylaw 2387
• First, second, third readings of Parks Regulation Bylaw No. 2385
• Adoption of Video Surveillance and Recording at Municipal Properties Policy
• Letters from District of Clearwater, Village of Clinton, Village of Ashcroft regarding transit regionalization

Council gave three readings to the 2025 Fees and Charges Bylaw, which includes spreading water rate increases for non-metered single-family homes over three years, doubling non-resident grave space and burial fees, and adding Voght Park track rental fees. Council also adopted the Good Neighbour Bylaw and Parks Regulation Bylaw, and approved a video surveillance policy for municipal properties.

• Adopted Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2386, 2025 (three readings)
• Amended Bylaw 2386 to spread water rate increases over three years
• Amended Bylaw 2386 to double non-resident grave space and burial fees
• Amended Bylaw 2386 to include Voght Park track rental fee
• Adopted Good Neighbour Bylaw 2387, 2024 (three readings)
• Adopted Parks Regulation Bylaw No. 2385, 2024 (three readings)
• Adopted Video Surveillance and Recording at Municipal Properties Policy

Merritt Special Council Meeting

The Merritt City Council is holding a special meeting to receive and discuss the preliminary financial plan for 2025–2029. Council will also consider directing staff to schedule public engagement sessions on the plan.

• Receive preliminary 2025–2029 financial plan for information and discussion
• Direct staff to schedule public engagement sessions on the financial plan

Council received the preliminary 2025-2029 financial plan for information and discussion, and directed staff to schedule public engagement sessions. The proposed operating budget is balanced with an 8% tax increase, subject to pending agreements. No final budget decisions were made.

• Received preliminary 2025-2029 financial plan for information and discussion (carried)
• Directed staff to schedule public engagement sessions for the Financial Plan (carried)

Policy Review Committee

The Policy Review Committee will discuss and vote on directing staff to bring forward proposed amendments to the Parks Bylaw, Fees and Charges Bylaw, Good Neighbour Bylaw, a new Subdivision & Development Servicing Bylaw, and a Video Surveillance and Recording at Municipal Properties Policy for Council consideration.

• Proposed amendments to the Parks Bylaw
• 2025 Fees and Charges Bylaw proposed amendments
• Draft Subdivision & Development Servicing Bylaw No. 2381, 2024
• Proposed amendments to the Good Neighbour Bylaw
• Draft Video Surveillance and Recording at Municipal Properties Policy

The Policy Review Committee directed staff to bring forward amendments to the Parks, Fees and Charges, Subdivision & Development Servicing, and Good Neighbour bylaws, plus a new Video Surveillance and Recording at Municipal Properties Policy, for Council consideration. All five motions were carried unanimously. The committee also requested a change to the Parks Bylaw to designate a City lot at the airport as an overnight sheltering location.

• Adopted October 24, 2024 meeting minutes (carried)
• Directed staff to bring Parks Bylaw amendments to Council, including changing N'Kwala park to a City lot at the airport for overnight sheltering (carried)
• Directed staff to bring Fees and Charges Bylaw amendments to Council, including spreading water/sewer rate increases over two years (carried)
• Directed staff to bring draft Subdivision & Development Servicing Bylaw No. 2381, 2024 to Council (carried)
• Directed staff to bring Good Neighbour Bylaw amendments to Council (carried)
• Directed staff to bring Video Surveillance and Recording at Municipal Properties Policy to Council (carried)

Special Closed Meeting of Council

This is a special closed meeting of the Merritt City Council. The sole item is a vote to close the meeting to the public under Section 90(1)(c) of the Community Charter, which pertains to labour relations or other employee relations. No public business will be conducted.

• Vote to close meeting under Section 90(1)(c) for labour/employee relations

The December 4, 2024 special meeting of Council was closed to the public under Section 90(1)(c) of the Community Charter, which covers labour relations or other employee relations. No substantive decisions were made in open session; the meeting lasted 42 minutes and ended at 6:42 pm.

• Closed meeting to public under Section 90(1)(c) (carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will adopt the minutes from the September 10, 2024 meeting and receive a report on exploring municipal development pathways for the City of Merritt.

• Adoption of Committee of the Whole Meeting Minutes - September 10, 2024
• Receiving report on exploring municipal development pathways for Merritt

Council received a presentation from urbanMetrics on options for using an expected $6-8 million in housing funding, including proceeds from flood recovery housing sales. The options discussed include creating a housing corporation, economic development corporation, non-profit, or managing funds internally. Council received the November 29, 2024 report for information, with a final report expected back in January. No binding decisions were made at this meeting.

• Adopted September 10, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes (carried, 1 absent)
• Received November 29, 2024 report 'Exploring Municipal Development Pathways' for information (carried, 1 absent)

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The Merritt City Council will consider giving first and second readings to two bylaws amending the Official Community Plan and zoning, and will vote on multiple grant applications for housing, climate resilience, and infrastructure projects.

• OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2383 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2384
• Adoption of 2024 Housing Needs Report
• Apply for $140,000 Green Municipal Fund grant
• Apply for $20,000 Vision Zero grant for Collettville path
• Approve 2025 Council meeting schedule and Acting Mayor rotation

Council adopted the 2024 Housing Needs Report with recommended changes and directed staff to submit it to the province by December 31, 2024. It also gave first and second readings to OCP and zoning amendment bylaws for a property, scheduling a public hearing. Several grant applications were approved, and the 2025 acting mayor rotation and meeting schedule were set.

• Adopted 2024 Housing Needs Report (1 against: Olguin)
• Directed staff to submit HNR to province by Dec 31, 2024
• Gave first and second readings to OCP Amendment Bylaw 2383 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw 2384
• Scheduled public hearing for OCP and zoning amendments
• Approved application for $20,000 Vision Zero BC grant for Collettville Multi-Use Path design
• Approved applications for two $40,000 Civil Forfeiture grants (women/girls safety, youth arts)
• Approved application for $140,000 Green Municipal Fund Climate-Ready grant
• Approved 2025 Acting Mayor rotation and 2025 Council meeting schedule

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

Council will give third reading and potentially adopt Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2377 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2378 for 2845 Neilson Avenue. They will also adopt the 2024-2028 Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2370 and consider reallocating Community Resiliency Investment funds toward FireSmart costs. Other items include a Canada Day grant application, support for a flood mitigation website and e-petition, and rescinding the Country Artist Murals in City Centre policy.

• Third reading and adoption of OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2377 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2378 for 2845 Neilson Ave
• Adoption of City of Merritt 2024-2028 Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2370
• Direction to staff to submit a Canada Day grant application to Department of Canadian Heritage
• Reallocation of unspent Community Resiliency Investment funding toward FireSmart position costs
• Rescission of the Country Artist Murals in City Centre policy

Council adopted the Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2377 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2378, both receiving third reading and adoption. The 2024-2028 Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2379 was also adopted despite concerns about tax increases and reserve transfers. Council directed staff to submit a Canada Day grant application and supported reallocating unspent Community Resiliency Investment funds to FireSmart costs. A policy for country artist murals in the city centre was rescinded.

• Adopted OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2377, 2024
• Adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2378, 2024
• Adopted Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2379, 2024
• Directed staff to submit Canada Day grant application before Nov 21, 2024
• Supported reallocation of Community Resiliency Investment funds to FireSmart costs
• Rescinded 'Country Artist Murals in City Centre Policy'

Age Friendly and Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Age Friendly and Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting to review the action plan tracker and preliminary information for the Accessibility Plan. The committee will also discuss a BC Healthy Communities Grant announcement.

• Review of Age Friendly and Accessibility Tracker
• BC Healthy Communities Plan Healthy Communities Grant Announcement
• Accessibility Plan Preliminary Information

The committee was informed that the City secured a $15,000 grant under the BC Healthy Communities Plan H Grant, with potential follow-up funding for project implementation next year. Members discussed preliminary accessibility plan information, emphasizing community engagement and a possible table at the next City Open House. No formal decisions were made; the meeting focused on updates and staff directions for ongoing items.

• Adopted October 3, 2024 minutes (carried)
• Noted $15,000 BC Healthy Communities Plan H Grant secured by the City
• Directed staff to investigate various accessibility items (e.g., airport accessibility, community gardens, delivery services, retrofit grants)
• Directed staff to get updates from Public Works on active transportation paths and other projects
• Directed staff to explore Rick Hansen Foundation accessibility certification for new builds
• Directed staff to investigate accessible taxi service options (no Handydart; curb-to-curb via transit society)

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss financial reports for city recreation. The session includes a presentation on facility financial summaries, building costs, and the creation of 2024 ball park rates.

• Financials Report for City of Merritt Recreation
• Rec Facility Financial Summary
• Rec Advisory building cost information
• Rates Creation for Ball Parks 2024
• Comparison of Summerland and Kamloops field rates

Special Closed Meeting of Council

The Merritt City Council will vote to close the October 29, 2024 meeting to the public under Section 90 (1)(C) and (K) of the Community Charter, citing labour and employee relations and negotiations on a proposed municipal service. A closed session will be held to consider minutes and public comments related to the closure.

• Vote to close meeting to press & public under Section 90 (1)(C) and (K)
• Closed session minutes
• Public comments on Section 90 (1)(C) and (K)

Policy Review Committee

The Policy Review Committee is meeting to discuss several local bylaws and policies. The body is reviewing a draft memorial policy and considering the rescission of a policy regarding country artist murals in the city centre.

• Proposal to rescind the Country Artist Murals in City Centre Policy
• Review of Memorial Recognition and Community Enhancement policy
• Review of Parks Regulation Bylaw 2054, 2008
• Discussion of Loitering Bylaw
• Review of Good Neighbour Bylaw

The Policy Review Committee adopted its July 25, 2024 minutes and voted to recommend that Council rescind the Country Artist Murals in City Centre Policy. The committee tabled the Memorial Recognition and Community Enhancement policy for later discussion, directed staff to investigate alternate overnight sheltering locations and add tent size requirements to the Parks Regulation Bylaw, and agreed not to pursue a Loitering Bylaw. Staff were also directed to amend the Good Neighbour Bylaw for clarity on vacant buildings and vehicles, with the amended bylaw to return to the committee.

• Adopted July 25, 2024 Policy Review Committee minutes (carried)
• Recommended to Council that the Country Artist Murals in City Centre Policy be rescinded (carried)
• Tabled the Memorial Recognition and Community Enhancement policy for further discussion at a later date
• Directed staff to investigate alternate overnight sheltering locations and include tent size requirements in the Parks Regulation Bylaw
• Agreed not to pursue a Loitering Bylaw any further
• Directed staff to amend the Good Neighbour Bylaw regarding clarity of vacant buildings, vehicles and noted omissions, to return to committee

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The council will conduct a public hearing on Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2377 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2378. It will also consider adopting the Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 2380 for 2025‑2027 and conduct first, second, and third readings of the Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2379 (2024‑2028). Additional items include two development variance permits and a request to uphold an invoice of $3,935.25.

• Public hearing on OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2377 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2378
• Adoption of City of Merritt 2025‑2027 Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 2380
• First, second, and third readings of Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2379 (2024‑2028)
• Development Variance Permit for 1761 Bann St to reduce right‑of‑way for a subdivision road
• Development Variance Permit for 2702 Nicola Ave to increase fence height to 1.8 m

Council adopted the 2025-2027 Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw and gave three readings to the amended 2024-2028 Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw, removing the second Bylaw Enforcement Officer allocation. They also upheld a $3,935.25 property cleanup invoice (with two councillors against), granted two development variance permits, and approved several grant applications and attendance at a seminar.

• Adopted 2025-2027 Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 2380 (carried)
• Gave first, second, and third reading to Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw 2379 as amended (carried)
• Upheld Invoice #8479 for $3,935.25 (carried, 2 against)
• Granted Development Variance Permit at 1761 Bann St. for reduced right-of-way (carried)
• Granted Development Variance Permit 2024-005 at 2702 Nicola Ave. for increased fence height (carried)
• Directed staff to apply for UBCM Community Emergency Preparedness Fund – Disaster Risk Reduction grant (carried)
• Approved 20% discount on NVAC memberships and 10% on punch cards, monthly memberships, and merchandise for December 2024 (carried)
• Approved Mayor and three councillors to attend 2024 SILGA seminar with funds from Council Conferences and Seminars account (carried)

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Recreation Advisory Committee will meet to adopt the minutes from its August 22, 2024 meeting and review financial reports.

• Adoption of August 22, 2024 minutes
• Financials report presentation
• Council Chambers, City Hall, 2185 Voght Street

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The council gave third reading and adopted Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2375, 2024 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2376, 2024. It also progressed Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 2380, 2024 through all three readings. Council authorized detailed design of Claybanks Dike Option 3 and allocated $9,500 for a city mascot costume in 2025.

• Adoption (third reading) of Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2375, 2024
• Adoption (third reading) of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2376, 2024
• Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 2380, 2024 received first, second, and third readings
• Authorization to proceed with detailed design of Claybanks Dike Option 3
• Allocation of $9,500 for design and purchase of a city mascot costume in 2025

Council adopted Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2375 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2376 after a public hearing with no public input. Council also selected Milo the Marmot as the city mascot, defeating Sunny the Sun, and authorized up to $9,500 for a mascot costume. Additionally, Council directed staff to proceed with detailed design of the Claybanks Dike Option 3 for flood mitigation and suspended work on the Fir Avenue Extension project.

• Adopted OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2375, 2024
• Adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2376, 2024
• Selected Milo the Marmot as city mascot (defeated Sunny the Sun 6-1)
• Authorized up to $9,500 for mascot costume purchase and design in 2025
• Directed staff to proceed with detailed design of Claybanks Dike Option 3
• Suspended work on Fir Avenue Extension and directed administration to treat 1301 Fir Avenue driveway as continuing
• Approved Councillor Baxter's attendance at 2024 Intentional Transformation Conference
• Received BC Transit presentation for information

Age Friendly and Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Age Friendly and Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss infrastructure maintenance and strategic planning. The body will review procedures for sidewalk inspections and track progress on accessibility goals.

• Sidewalk Inspection and Maintenance Procedure
• Age Friendly and Accessibility Advisory Committee Workplan
• Age Friendly and Accessibility Action Tracker

The committee adopted the August 8, 2024 minutes as amended to include Councillor Charney in attendance. It decided to meet monthly for the next three months to reprioritize its workplan toward accessibility legislative requirements. Staff were directed to investigate transportation standards for painting sidewalk let-downs, and the committee will review its action tracker and submit updates to staff.

• Adopted August 8, 2024 minutes as amended (carried)
• Directed staff to investigate transportation standards for painting sidewalk let-downs
• Agreed to meet monthly for the next three months (carried)
• Committee will review action tracker and submit updates to staff

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will discuss zoning and Official Community Plan amendments for a property on Neilson St. The body is also considering the adoption of an emergency measures bylaw and a fire suppression service agreement with the Lower Nicola Indian Band.

• OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2377 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2378 regarding 2845 Neilson St
• Adoption of City of Merritt Emergency Measures Bylaw No. 2374, 2024
• Structural Protection Fire Suppression Service Agreement with Lower Nicola Indian Band
• 2024 Water Conservation Review report
• Presentation by Enbridge regarding Community & Indigenous Engagement

Council gave first and second readings to OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2377 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2378, with Councillor Olguin voting against each. Staff were directed to require a covenant restricting uses per Interior Health's recommendation and to schedule a public hearing. Council also adopted the Emergency Measures Bylaw No. 2374 and authorized a fire suppression service agreement with Lower Nicola Indian Band.

• Gave first reading to OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2377 (1 against)
• Gave second reading to OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2377 (1 against)
• Gave first reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2378 (1 against)
• Gave second reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2378 (1 against)
• Directed staff to require a covenant restricting uses per Interior Health's recommendation
• Directed staff to schedule a public hearing for the bylaws
• Adopted Emergency Measures Bylaw No. 2374, 2024
• Authorized execution of Structural Fire Suppression Service Agreement with Lower Nicola Indian Band

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review and discuss applications for permissive tax exemptions for the 2025–2027 period. Council is asked to provide direction on the percentage of exemption, ranging from 0% to 100%, to be included in the bylaw.

• Permissive tax exemption applications for 2025–2027

The Committee of the Whole directed amendments to the Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw, setting specific exemption rates for various organizations and properties. The bylaw cycle was reduced from four to three years. No final decisions were made; the amendments will be presented to Council for adoption.

• Directed amendment to set places of worship at 50% exemption
• Set Nicola Native Lodge at 25% of land value only
• Set Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly at 25% of land value only
• Set Helew'u Child Care Society at 50% land (2190 Blair St) and 0% land (2288 Nicola Ave)
• Set Conayt Friendship Society at 25% of land and building (2164 Quilchena Ave)
• Set Merritt Business and Economic Development Society at 50% of land and building
• Set Nicola Valley Association for Community Living at 100% of land and building
• Set Royal Canadian Legion at 100% of land and building

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council is conducting a public hearing for Official Community Plan and Zoning Amendment Bylaws. The body is also considering several other zoning changes, an emergency measures bylaw, and a grant application for housing.

• Public hearing for OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2372 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2373
• Proposed OCP and Zoning amendments for 2845 Neilson St and 1129 Midday Valley Road
• Emergency Measures Bylaw No. 2374, 2024
• Housing Accelerator Fund 2 application to the CMHC
• Development Variance Permit DVP 2024-001 for 2288 Burgess Ave

Council adopted OCP Amendment Bylaw 2339 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw 2340 for the Middlesboro area, and gave third reading to OCP and zoning bylaws for 3940 Crawford Ave and 4079 Airport Road. A proposed OCP amendment for a vulnerable aquifer area (Bylaw 2377) was defeated 4-4. Council also approved a development variance permit, authorized murals, and directed staff to submit a Housing Accelerator Fund application.

• Adopted OCP Amendment Bylaw 2339 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw 2340 (Middlesboro) (carried)
• Gave third reading to OCP Amendment Bylaw 2372 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw 2373 (3940 Crawford Ave / 4079 Airport Road) (carried)
• Defeated first reading of OCP Amendment Bylaw 2377 (aquifer area) (4 against: Etchart, Charney, Baxter, Olguin)
• Gave first and second reading to OCP Amendment Bylaw 2375 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw 2376; scheduled public hearing (carried)
• Granted Development Variance Permit DVP 2024-001 at 2288 Burgess Ave (1 against: Petroczi)
• Authorized murals at Voght Park Bathrooms/Showers, City Dog Pound, and Dragon Rock Display on Dewolf Way (carried)
• Directed staff to submit Housing Accelerator Fund 2 application to CMHC (carried)
• Defeated Memorial Recognition and Community Enhancement policy; returned to Policy Review Committee (6 against; carried to return)

Special Closed Meeting of Council

The Council will consider a motion to close the meeting to the press and public, citing potential litigation and solicitor‑client privilege under Section 90(1)(g) and (i) of the Community Charter. After the closed session, the Council will vote on returning to an open session. No other agenda items are listed.

• Vote to close meeting to press and public under Section 90(1)(g) and (i)
• Closed session discussion under Section 90(g) and (i)
• Vote to return to public meeting after closed session
• Termination of meeting (no items selected)

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss building cost information presented by D. Zakall and K. Natkinniemi. The body will also address unfinished business regarding leases for pickleball and tennis.

• Presentation of Rec Advisory building cost info
• Review of Pickleball Lease
• Review of Merritt and District Tennis Lease

The Merritt Recreation Advisory Committee adopted previous minutes, discussed outdated leases, user fees, and sponsorship policies, and directed staff to bring forward a report on City recreation expenditures. The committee also received a presentation on recreational building cost information.

• Adopted July 11, 2024 minutes
• Directed staff to bring forward a report on City recreation expenditures for review and consideration

Age Friendly and Accessibility Advisory Committee

The committee is meeting to establish its leadership and operational framework. Members will appoint a chair, review the committee's Terms of Reference, and discuss the Age Friendly Action Plan workplan.

• Election of Committee Chair
• Review of Age Friendly and Accessibility Committee Terms of Reference
• Discussion of Age Friendly Action Plan workplan
• Setting of yearly meeting schedule
• Adoption of September 27, 2021 minutes

The Age Friendly and Accessibility Advisory Committee met and appointed Mayor Goetz as chair. They discussed accessibility improvements, including making Council Chambers more accessible and addressing snow removal and crosswalk safety, but no formal decisions were made on these items. The committee will meet quarterly, with the next meeting in October.

• Adopted minutes from September 27, 2021 (carried)
• Appointed Mayor Goetz as Chair (carried)

Policy Review Committee

The Policy Review Committee is meeting to discuss several new business items. The committee is considering whether to forward a new emergency measures bylaw and a memorial recognition policy to Council.

• City of Merritt Emergency Measures Bylaw No. 2374
• Memorial Recognition & Community Enhancement policy
• Baillie House Lease

The Policy Review Committee forwarded two items to Council for consideration: the Memorial Recognition and Community Enhancement policy and the City of Merritt Emergency Measures Bylaw No. 2374. Both motions were carried. The committee also discussed the Baillie House lease, suggesting the term be reduced and aligned with the service agreement, but no formal decision was made on this item.

• Forwarded Memorial Recognition and Community Enhancement policy to Council (carried)
• Forwarded Emergency Measures Bylaw No. 2374 to Council (carried)
• Adopted minutes of June 20, 2024 meeting (carried)

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The Merritt City Council is meeting to discuss official community plan and zoning amendments. The body is also considering a proposal to become the Diking Authority for the C-EPA North Dike.

• First and second readings of OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2372 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2373
• Proposal for City of Merritt to become the Diking Authority for C-EPA North Dike
• Presentation from BC Transit Manager Government Relations Elise Wren
• Presentation from Joel Zadravec regarding rock climbing in Merritt
• Review of June 2024 Fire Department Statistics

Council gave first and second readings to OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2372 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2373, and directed staff to schedule a public hearing. Council also approved becoming the Diking Authority for the C-EPA North Dike and discussed tax notice penalties for a future resolution. The meeting included a recognition and a presentation on rock climbing.

• First reading of OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2372 (carried)
• Second reading of OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2372 (carried)
• First reading of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2373 (carried)
• Second reading of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2373 (carried)
• Directed staff to schedule a public hearing for the bylaws (carried)
• Approved becoming Diking Authority for C-EPA North Dike (carried)
• Added tax notice item to agenda (carried)
• Removed BC Transit item from agenda (carried)

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Recreation Advisory Committee will review its own terms of reference and discuss a workplan. The committee is also reviewing lease agreements for the Pickleball Club and the Merritt and District Tennis Club.

• Review of 2024 Recreation Advisory Committee Terms of Reference
• Review of Pickleball Club Lease
• Review of Merritt and District Tennis Club Lease
• Discussion of Recreation Advisory Workplan

The committee elected Amy Douthwright as Chair and decided to meet monthly until the October budget review. Members discussed leases for the Pickleball and Tennis clubs and established a workplan focusing on facility improvements and rent pricing.

• Elected Amy Douthwright as Chair (Carried)
• Approved monthly meeting schedule until October budget review (Carried)
• Tabled Tennis Club Lease for next meeting review

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will consider a request to allow overnight camping in Central Park field 5. This proposal is intended for the Boys Provincial Ball Tournament occurring July 12-14, 2024. The meeting also includes information items regarding a letter from Premier Eby and a report from Nicola Valley Women in Action.

• Relaxation of City of Merritt Parks Regulation Bylaw 2054, 2008 for overnight camping in Central Park field 5
• Review of June 25, 2024, Regular Council Meeting Minutes
• Information item: Letter from Premier Eby
• Information item: Nicola Valley Women in Action Annual Report

Council approved a temporary relaxation of the Parks Regulation Bylaw to permit overnight camping for a youth sports tournament. The meeting also included the adoption of previous minutes and a closed session regarding land matters.

• Approved overnight camping in Central Park field 5 for Boy’s Provincial Ball Tournament July 12-14, 2024 (Carried)
• Adopted June 25, 2024 Regular Council Meeting Minutes (Carried)
• Removed item 5.1 (Recognition Evin Baird) from the agenda (Carried)
• Approved closing the meeting to the public for land acquisition, disposition or expropriation discussions (Carried)

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

Merritt City Council is set to vote on two bylaws that update municipal fees and amend zoning rules. The meeting also covers approval of the 2023 annual financial report, adoption of a social media policy, and a tangible capital asset management policy. The zoning and fee bylaws will directly affect property development costs and land-use regulations for residents. Three public delegations will present, and council will hold a closed session to discuss land acquisition and preliminary municipal service negotiations.

• Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2368, 2024
• City of Merritt Fees and Charges Amending Bylaw No. 2371, 2024
• 2023 Annual Report and Statement of Financial Information
• Social Media Policy and Tangible Capital Asset Management Policy
• Closed session on land acquisition and municipal service negotiations

Merritt City Council adopted the Fees and Charges Amending Bylaw No. 2371 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2386, with Councillor Manuel Olguin opposed to both. Council also received the 2023 Annual Report, approved the 2023 Statement of Financial Information, and adopted both the Use of Social Media Policy and an amended Tangible Capital Asset Policy. Additionally, Council voted to close the meeting to the public under specific Community Charter sections.

• Removed item 5.2 from the agenda
• Adopted the Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting held on June 11, 2024, as amended
• Adopted City of Merritt Fees and Charges Amending Bylaw No. 2371, 2024 (Against: Manuel Olguin)
• Adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2368, 2024 (Against: Manuel Olguin)
• Received the City of Merritt 2023 Annual Report
• Approved the City of Merritt Statement of Financial Information for the year ended December 31, 2023
• Adopted the City of Merritt Use of Social Media Policy and the amended Tangible Capital Asset Policy
• Closed the meeting to the public pursuant to Section 90(1)(e) and (k) of the Community Charter

Policy Review Committee

The Policy Review Committee is reviewing several municipal policies and bylaws. Discussion includes a draft Social Media Policy, the Good Neighbour Bylaw, and the Tangible Capital Asset Policy.

• Social Media Policy review
• Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw Information Report
• Good Neighbour Bylaw draft
• Tangible Capital Asset Policy draft

The Policy Review Committee adopted minutes from April 18, 2024, and voted to forward the Social Media Policy, the Good Neighbour Bylaw with amendments, and the Tangible Capital Asset Policy to a Regular Council meeting for consideration. The committee also received a presentation on the Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw. Councillor Charney declared a potential conflict of interest regarding the Good Neighbour Bylaw and temporarily left the meeting.

• Adopted April 18, 2024 Policy Review Committee meeting minutes
• Forwarded Social Media Policy to a Regular Council meeting
• Forwarded Good Neighbour Bylaw with amendments to Council
• Forwarded Tangible Capital Asset Policy to a Regular Council meeting

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hear a presentation from BC Housing Regional Development Director Tyler Baker. The meeting also includes a closed session regarding land acquisition or disposition and preliminary municipal service negotiations.

• Presentation by Tyler Baker of BC Housing
• Closed session regarding Section 90(1)(e) land acquisition, disposition or expropriation
• Closed session regarding Section 90(1)(k) municipal service negotiations

The Committee adopted the minutes from the May 21, 2024 meeting. Representatives from BC Housing presented information on the local housing continuum and reported a count of 66 unsheltered residents in Merritt. The meeting included a closed session regarding land and privacy matters.

• Adopted May 21, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes (Carried)
• Approved adding item 6.3.4 to the closed agenda (Carried)
• Approved closing the meeting to the public for land, privacy, and service negotiations (Carried)

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The Council is reviewing a corrected Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2368 and a new Fees and Charges Amending Bylaw. Additional items include support for a theatre extension and the adoption of terms for the STUWI(x) Naturalization Project.

• Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2368, 2024
• City of Merritt Fees and Charges Amending Bylaw No. 2371, 2024
• Conceptual design for a Nicola Valley Community Theatre Society extension
• STUWI(x) Naturalization Project Steering Committee Terms of Reference
• Traffic study in school and park zones

Council concluded readings of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2368, 2024 after an error in process at the May 28, 2024 meeting. The bylaw was amended to remove a change to the zoning designation of Lot A, DL 125, KDYD, Plan EPP27753, PID: 029-292-484, and then received First, Second and Third Readings as amended, each carried with Councillors Adam Etchart and Manuel Olguin opposed. Council also gave three readings to the City of Merritt Fees and Charges Amending Bylaw No. 2371, 2024, with Councillor Manuel Olguin opposed each time, and supported development of a conceptual design for a theatre extension to the Merritt Civic Centre.

• Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2368, 2024 amended to exclude any zoning change to Lot A, DL 125, KDYD, Plan EPP27753, PID: 029-292-484 (carried)
• First Reading of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2368, 2024 as amended (carried; against: Adam Etchart, Manuel Olguin)
• Second Reading of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2368, 2024 as amended (carried; against: Adam Etchart, Manuel Olguin)
• Third Reading of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2368, 2024 as amended (carried; against: Adam Etchart, Manuel Olguin)
• First Reading of City of Merritt Fees and Charges Amending Bylaw No. 2371, 2024 (carried; against: Manuel Olguin)
• Second Reading of City of Merritt Fees and Charges Amending Bylaw No. 2371, 2024 (carried; against: Manuel Olguin)
• Third Reading of City of Merritt Fees and Charges Amending Bylaw No. 2371, 2024 (carried; against: Manuel Olguin)
• Supported development of a conceptual design of a theatre extension to the Merritt Civic Centre (carried; against: Yvette Baxter)

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will review several bylaws regarding waterworks and zoning amendments. Additionally, the council is scheduled to authorize a BC Transit operating agreement and discuss an expanded emergency operations grant.

• Adoption of Waterworks Amendment Bylaw No. 2370, 2024
• Three readings of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2368, 2024
• 2024-2025 BC Transit Annual Operating Agreement
• Emergency Operations Centre Equipment and Training grant increase

Council authorized the 2024-2025 BC Transit Annual Operating Agreement and approved the management of an expanded Emergency Operations Centre grant. The council also directed the Mayor to work with the RCMP to increase downtown enforcement. A proposed zoning change for a city-owned parcel on Quilchena Avenue was rescinded and amended.

• Adopted City of Merritt Waterworks Amendment Bylaw No. 2370, 2024
• Rescinded and amended Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2368, 2024 to exclude zoning changes for parcel PID: 029-292-484
• Authorized Mayor and Corporate Officer to sign 2024-2025 BC Transit Annual Operating Agreement
• Approved management and staff oversight of expanded 2024 Emergency Operations Centre Equipment and Training grant
• Directed Mayor to work with RCMP to increase enforcement in the downtown core
• Adopted May 14, 2024 Regular Council Meeting Minutes

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review proposed changes to the City's Zoning Bylaw. Additionally, the Nicola Valley Community Theatre Society will present a project summary.

• Discussion of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2368, 2024
• Nicola Valley Community Theatre Society project presentation

Merritt's Committee of the Whole met May 21, 2024 and adopted two sets of prior minutes (January 29 and March 5, 2024). The Nicola Valley Community Theatre Society presented a proposal to adapt the Civic Centre for cultural events and live theatre, citing about $200,000 for conceptual drawings and an estimated $3,000,000 construction cost, with $1.26 million confirmed funding and a commitment of an additional $1 million; council requested the item return at the first meeting in June. Staff also presented proposed Zoning Bylaw changes required by legislation, covering water and sewer modeling, parking reductions, development cost charges, and parcel tax review. No decisions were made on the theatre proposal or the zoning bylaw; the meeting then went into closed session under Section 90(1)(f) and ended at 9:25 pm.

• Adopted minutes of the January 29, 2024 Committee of the Whole meeting (CARRIED)
• Adopted minutes of the March 5, 2024 Committee of the Whole meeting (CARRIED)
• Requested the Nicola Valley Community Theatre Society proposal return at the first meeting in June for consideration
• Closed the meeting to the public under Section 90(1)(f) of the Community Charter (CARRIED)

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will meet to accept the 2023 consolidated financial statements and consider Bylaw 2370 regarding waterworks. Additionally, staff may be directed to apply for several asset management and infrastructure planning grants.

• Acceptance of 2023 Consolidated Financial Statements
• Bylaw 2370 - City of Merritt Waterworks Amendment Bylaw
• UBCM Asset Management Planning grant application
• Infrastructure Planning Grant Program applications for inventory assets

Council passed Bylaw 2370, which reinstates the requirement for new buildings to install water meters. The council also directed staff to apply for asset management and infrastructure planning grants. A motion to table the water bylaw was defeated, and a notice of motion for traffic studies in school and park zones was submitted for future consideration.

• Adopted May 7, 2024 Special Council Meeting minutes
• Accepted 2023 Consolidated Financial Statements
• Passed Bylaw 2370 (Waterworks Amendment) on third reading
• Defeated motion to table Bylaw 2370
• Directed staff to apply for UBCM Asset Management Planning grant
• Directed staff to apply for Infrastructure Planning Grant Program
• Submitted Notice of Motion for traffic study in school and park zones

Merritt Special Council Meeting

The Merritt City Council will meet to consider adopting the 2024 Annual Property Taxes Bylaw and approving the 2024 Acting Mayor Schedule. The agenda also includes receiving by-election results and a notice of motion regarding weekend pool access.

• Adoption of Annual Property Taxes Bylaw No. 2369, 2024
• Approval of the 2024 Acting Mayor Schedule
• Receipt of the 2024 By-election Results report
• Notice of Motion for monthly free weekend pool admission

Council adopted the 2024 Annual Property Taxes Bylaw and approved a schedule for the Acting Mayor. The city will also implement a monthly free admission period for the pool. Councillor-Elect Yvette Baxter was sworn into office.

• Adopted Annual Property Taxes Bylaw No. 2369, 2024 (1 against, 1 absent)
• Approved opening the pool once a month (Saturday or Sunday) from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm with free admission (1 absent)
• Approved 2024 Acting Mayor Schedule (1 absent)
• Swore in Councillor-Elect Yvette Baxter
• Adopted April 23, 2024 Regular Council Meeting Minutes (1 absent)
• Received 2024 By-election Results report for information (1 absent)

Airport Advisory Committee

The Airport Advisory Committee will discuss airport maintenance and airport facilities. Rick Green, Director of Public Works and Engineering Services, and Dave Zakall, Director of Community Services, are scheduled to be available for these discussions. The committee also intends to continue developing its workplan.

• Discussion regarding airport maintenance
• Discussion regarding airport facilities
• Development of the Airport Advisory Workplan

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The Council will consider the 2024 Annual Property Taxes Bylaw and a request to borrow up to $74,000 for a public works van. The meeting includes presentations from BC Transit, Community Living BC, and the Thompson Nicola Regional Trail Society.

• Annual Property Taxes Bylaw No. 2369, 2024
• Development Variance Permit DVP2024-003 at 1227 Midday Valley Road
• MFA Financing for a Public Works Cross Connection Van up to $74,000
• 2024 TNRD Fire Agreement
• Recreation Advisory Committee Terms of Reference

Merritt City Council gave first, second and third readings to the 2024 Annual Property Taxes Bylaw No. 2369, with Councillor Manuel Olguin recorded against on each reading. Council also approved a development variance permit at 1227 Midday Valley Road allowing a surety (performance) bond, authorized borrowing up to $74,000 from the Municipal Finance Authority for a Cross Connection van, directed staff to enter a 2024 fire protection agreement with the Thompson Nicola Regional District, and adopted Recreation Advisory Committee terms of reference. A notice of motion proposing free monthly public access to the aquatic centre was submitted but not decided.

• Gave First Reading to 2024 Annual Property Taxes Bylaw No. 2369 (against: Manuel Olguin)
• Gave Second Reading to 2024 Annual Property Taxes Bylaw No. 2369 (against: Manuel Olguin)
• Gave Third Reading to 2024 Annual Property Taxes Bylaw No. 2369 (against: Manuel Olguin)
• Approved Development Variance Permit DVP2024-003 at 1227 Midday Valley Road to allow a Surety Bond (Performance Bond)
• Authorized borrowing up to $74,000 from the Municipal Finance Authority for a Cross Connection van, repayable within 5 years with no right of renewal
• Directed staff to enter the 2024 Fire Protection Agreement with the Thompson Nicola Regional District
• Adopted the Recreation Advisory Committee Terms of Reference
• Adopted March 26, 2024 minutes and April 9, 2024 minutes as amended (rental rates set at $1,200 for October 2024 and $600 for February 2025; memorial honoree name corrected to Jean Swedberg)

Policy Review Committee

The Policy Review Committee will consider adopting the minutes from the March 21, 2024, meeting. The committee will also review a draft social media policy and terms of reference for the Recreation Advisory Committee, alongside discussions regarding pickleball and tennis club leases.

• Draft Social Media Policy
• Terms of Reference - Recreation Advisory Committee
• Merritt Pickleball Club Lease
• Merritt and District Tennis Club lease

The Policy Review Committee amended the Recreation Advisory Committee's Terms of Reference to reduce required annual meetings. The committee also referred pickleball and tennis club leases to the Recreation Advisory Committee for further discussion.

• Adopted March 21, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Amended Recreation Advisory Committee Terms of Reference to require minimum of four meetings per year (Carried)
• Referred Merritt Pickleball Club Lease and public access to Recreation Advisory Committee
• Referred Merritt and District Tennis Club Lease and public access to Recreation Advisory Committee
• Requested Recreation Advisory Committee discuss a monthly Free Swim Day for Council (Carried)

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing the 2024–2028 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2367. The agenda also includes a discussion on water usage conservation and a contract for a land purchase. Additionally, several amended council policies are proposed for adoption.

• Adoption of the 2024–2028 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2367
• Planning for Claybanks RV Park to open in Spring (April 1st) of 2025
• Central Park Concession Operating Agreement with Micheal Begg (Curbside Cookhouse)
• Land purchase agreement for PID 023-571-250 and PID 028-905-458
• Adoption of amended Code of Conduct, Community Grant, and Tax Exemption policies

Merritt City Council adopted the 2024-2028 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2367, 2024, with one councillor opposed. Council also directed staff to open Claybanks RV Park in spring 2025, approved a Central Park Concession Operating Agreement with Micheal Begg (Curbside Cookhouse) as amended to set a $600 rental rate for four winter months, and directed administration to complete a land purchase for two specified properties. Council adopted several amended policies, including a Code of Conduct, Community Grant in Aid, Permissive Tax Exemption, and Honorarium Policy, with two councillors opposed to the Honorarium Policy.

• Adopted 2024-2028 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2367, 2024 (1 opposed: Manuel Olguin)
• Directed staff to plan for Claybanks RV Park to open in Spring (April 1) 2025
• Approved Central Park Concession Operating Agreement with Micheal Begg (Curbside Cookhouse), amended to set $600 rental rate for Nov 2024, Dec 2024, Jan 2025, Feb 2025
• Directed administration to complete agreement to purchase PID 023-571-250 and PID 028-905-458 (Lot 2)
• Adopted amended Code of Conduct for Council and Committee Members Policy
• Adopted amended Community Grant in Aid Policy, as amended
• Adopted amended Permissive Tax Exemption Policy
• Adopted Honorarium Policy, as amended (2 opposed: Wendy Charney, Dana Egan)

Age Friendly and Accessibility Advisory Committee

The committee will meet to establish its leadership and operational structure for the year. Members are scheduled to elect a chair, review the Terms of Reference, and discuss the Age Friendly Action Plan.

• Election of Committee Chair
• Review of Terms of Reference
• Discussion of Age Friendly Action Plan workplan
• Setting of yearly meeting schedule

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The City of Merritt Council is reviewing several infrastructure and recovery items. Key discussions include a multi-million dollar contract for the Middlesboro bridge replacement and the creation of an infrastructure reserve fund.

• Award of $12,545,974.43 Phase 2B contract to Emil Anderson Construction for Middlesboro bridge replacement
• Application for a $5 million Disaster Risk Reduction – Climate Adaptation grant for the Kengard well
• Application for a Local Government Development Approvals Program Grant of up to $150,000
• Creation of an Infrastructure Reserve using funds from Middlesboro Bridge ($351,341), diking ($37,417), and Treasury Board ($151,735)
• Approval of increased diking length for C-EPA North

Council approved a major construction contract for the Middlesboro Bridge and authorized several grant applications for housing and water infrastructure. The board also established a new infrastructure reserve and approved additional diking works.

• Awarded $12,545,974.43 Phase 2B contract to Emil Anderson Construction for Middlesboro bridge
• Approved application for up to $150,000 from Local Government Development Approvals Program
• Approved $5M grant application for Kengard well and committed to funding overages from reserves
• Directed creation of Infrastructure Reserve using $554,493 in interest revenue
• Approved administration fees for ROC operations of $92,118 (2023) and $96,724 (2024)
• Approved increased diking length for C-EPA North using Provincial Recovery fund interest
• Directed staff to invoice the province for elevated emergency medical services costs
• Directed Mayor Goetz to seek provincial recovery for 19 days of lost hospital service

Policy Review Committee

The Policy Review Committee is reviewing several draft policies. This includes the Code of Conduct for Council and Committee Members, as well as new drafts for Community Grant In Aid and Permissive Tax Exemption.

• Draft Code of Conduct for Council and Committee Members
• Draft 2024 Community Grant In Aid policy
• Draft 2024 Permissive Tax Exemption policy
• Adoption of January 25, 2024 meeting minutes

The Policy Review Committee reviewed amendments to the Code of Conduct, Community Grant in Aid, and Permissive Tax Exemption policies. All three sets of amendments were approved to be brought forward to a Regular Council meeting.

• Adopted January 25, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Approved bringing Code of Conduct Policy amendments to Regular Council (Carried)
• Approved bringing Community Grant in Aid Policy amendments to Regular Council (Carried)
• Approved bringing Permissive Tax Exemption Policy amendments to Regular Council (Carried)

Airport Advisory Committee

The Airport Advisory Committee will meet to review its Terms of Reference and discuss the airport workplan. The committee also intends to set its yearly meeting schedule and adopt previous minutes.

• Review of 2023 Airport Advisory Committee Terms of Reference
• Discussion of Airport Advisory Workplan
• Setting of yearly meeting schedule
• Adoption of April 21, 2022, meeting minutes

Merritt Special Council Meeting

The City of Merritt Council will meet to discuss and potentially adopt the 2024 - 2028 Financial Plan. The agenda also includes the adoption of minutes from previous regular and special council meetings.

• 2024 - 2028 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2367

Council approved the 2024–2028 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2367 through three readings. Discussions included the transition of field rental rates and the structure of the two-year Merritt Housing Program.

• Adopted March 12 Regular Council Meeting minutes as amended (Carried)
• Adopted March 12 Special Council Meeting minutes (Carried)
• Read 2024–2028 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2367 first time (Carried; 2 against)
• Read 2024–2028 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2367 second time (Carried; 2 against)
• Read 2024–2028 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2367 third time (Carried; 2 against)

Police Committee

The committee will review the 2024/2025 goals for the Merritt RCMP Detachment and 2023 crime statistics. Staff Sergeant Roda is scheduled to present these items. The agenda also includes reviewing the year-end 2023 CPO Information Report.

• Presentation of 2024/2025 Merritt RCMP Detachment Goals
• Presentation of 2023 Statistics
• Adoption of June 29, 2023, Police Committee minutes
• Review of 2023 CPO Information Report

The Merritt Police Committee adopted minutes from its June 29, 2023 meeting and received presentations on the RCMP detachment's 2024/2025 goals and 2023 statistics. Staff Sgt. Roda reported 6,024 RCMP calls in 2023, two member vacancies, and two new cadets. The committee also received the Community Policing Office year-end 2023 report. No motions beyond adopting the prior minutes were recorded.

• Adopted June 29, 2023 Police Committee meeting minutes (carried)
• Received RCMP 2024/2025 goals presentation (no vote recorded)
• Received 2023 RCMP statistics presentation (no vote recorded)
• Received CPO Year End 2023 report (no vote recorded)

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing several items including the Housing Merritt Project proposal and financial plan. The agenda also includes the adoption of water and sewer parcel tax amending bylaws and a facility use agreement for the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena.

• Housing Merritt Project and financial plan approval
• Water Parcel Tax Amending Bylaw No. 2366, 2024
• Sewer Parcel Tax Amending Bylaw No. 2365, 2024
• Notice on Title for 1550 Walnut Avenue
• 2024 Nicola Valley Memorial Arena Facility Use Agreement

The Merritt City Council approved the Housing Merritt Project and its financial plan, along with a new Project Director role, in a vote with two councillors opposed. Council also adopted amending bylaws for water and sewer parcel taxes and directed staff to finalize the 2024 Nicola Valley Memorial Arena Facility Use Agreement. Additionally, a notice on title was filed for a property at 1550 Walnut Avenue due to safety concerns.

• Approved Housing Merritt Project and financial plan (2 against)
• Approved Organizational Chart amendment for Housing Project Director
• Adopted Water Parcel Tax Amending Bylaw No. 2366, 2024
• Adopted Sewer Parcel Tax Amending Bylaw No. 2365, 2024
• Directed staff to enter 2024 Nicola Valley Memorial Arena Facility Use Agreement
• Directed filing of Notice on Title for 1550 Walnut Avenue (PID: 006-476-104)
• Adopted February 27, 2024 Regular Council Meeting Minutes

Merritt Special Council Meeting

The City of Merritt Council will hold a special closed meeting following its regular session. The agenda includes discussions regarding land acquisition or disposition and preliminary municipal service negotiations.

• Vote to close meeting to press and public pursuant to Section 90(1)(e) and (k)
• Discussion of land acquisition, disposition, or expropriation
• Negotiations regarding proposed municipal services

Council met in a special closed session to discuss matters related to the acquisition or disposition of land and preliminary negotiations for municipal services. No substantive decisions were recorded in the open session.

• Approved closing the meeting to the public pursuant to Section 90(1)(e) and 90(1)(k) of the Community Charter

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss the Housing Merritt Project and its associated financial plan. The discussion also includes a recommendation to amend the organizational chart to create two new positions.

• Approval of the Housing Merritt Project and financial plan
• Amendment to include a Housing Merritt Project Director position
• Amendment to include an Administrative Clerk position

The Committee approved the Housing Merritt Project and its associated financial plan to address housing needs for flood-impacted residents and locals. The committee also approved an organizational chart amendment to create a Housing Merritt Project Director position.

• Adopted February 1, 2024 Committee of the Whole minutes (Carried)
• Approved Housing Merritt Project and financial plan (Carried; 1 against)
• Approved Organizational Chart amendment to include a Housing Merritt Project Director (Carried; 1 against)

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council is reviewing several bylaws regarding taxes and privacy, as well as a new housing project. They are also considering various grant-in-aid requests for local community organizations.

• Compost Facility: planning continued operation and potential private lease/RFP
• Grant in Aid requests including $3,000 for Merritt and District Chamber of Commerce
• Adoption of Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Bylaw No. 2363, 2024
• Amending Water Parcel Tax Bylaw No. 2366
• Amending Sewer Parcel Tax Bylaw No. 2365

Council approved 22 grant in aid requests for local organizations and directed staff to develop a business plan for the city-operated compost facility. Three bylaws regarding privacy and parcel taxes were adopted, and a digital sign agreement with Tourism Nicola Valley was approved.

• Approved 22 Grant in Aid requests for 2024, including $3,000 for the Chamber of Commerce
• Directed staff to plan continued city operation of the compost facility and develop a business plan
• Adopted Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Bylaw No. 2363, 2024
• Approved Water Parcel Tax Amending Bylaw No. 2366
• Approved Sewer Parcel Tax Amending Bylaw No. 2365
• Approved Tourism Nicola Valley Digital Sign Agreement at $5,000 plus 2% revenue
• Supported grant application for UBCM Community Emergency Preparedness Fund
• Referred Housing Merritt Proposal to Committee of the Whole

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The Council is considering several bylaw amendments regarding fees, building codes, and land use. They are also reviewing a strata conversion application for 2270 Quilchena Ave and a funding request for Nicola Valley Women in Action.

• Adoption of multiple bylaws including Fees and Charges (No. 2358) and Building Code (No. 2359)
• Appointment of Linda Brick as Chief Election Officer and Twyla Slonski as Deputy Chief Election Officer for the 2024 By-Election
• Strata Conversion Application at 2270 Quilchena Ave
• Authorization to borrow $439,728.71 from the Municipal Finance Authority for a Solid Waste Collection Truck
• Approval of Mayor Goetz's attendance at the 2024 UBCM Housing Summit

Council authorized borrowing $439,728.71 from the Municipal Finance Authority to purchase a solid waste collection truck. The board also adopted several 2024 fees and charges bylaws and approved a three-year agreement with Nicola Valley Women in Action.

• Authorized $439,728.71 loan for solid waste collection truck (Carried)
• Approved three-year agreement with Nicola Valley Women in Action for $35,000 (Carried)
• Denied one-year agreement with Nicola Valley Women in Action for $35,000 (4 against)
• Approved Strata Conversion Application at 2270 Quilchena Ave (Carried)
• Adopted Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2358, 2024 (2 against)
• Adopted Building, Civic Center, Cemetery, and Land Use Amendment Bylaws (Carried)
• Appointed Linda Brick as Chief Election Officer and Twyla Slonski as Deputy Chief Election Officer (Carried)
• Approved Emergency Broadcast System Usage Policy (Carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee will review several 2024 Grant in Aid applications referred from the January 23, 2024 Regular Council meeting. Council is tasked with determining the type, amount, and payment timing for each approved request. One listed application involves the Merritt RCMP Cops for Kids program.

• Review of 2024 Grant in Aid applications
• Merritt RCMP - Cops for Kids grant application

The Committee of the Whole recommended a series of Grant in Aid requests for various community organizations. The committee also discussed encouraging three local clubs to seek alternative funding and support from the Thompson-Nicola Regional District.

• Recommended Grant in Aid for Merritt and District Chamber of Commerce ($3,000.00)
• Recommended Grant in Aid for Merritt Country Christmas ($2,000.00)
• Recommended Grant in Aid for Merritt Bread Basket Soup Bowl Society ($1,500.00)
• Recommended Grant in Aid for Nicola Valley Farmers' Association ($1,100.00)
• Recommended Grant in Aid for Merritt RCMP – Cops for Kids ($1,162.00)
• Recommended Grant in Aid for 17 additional organizations ranging from $500.00 to $1,000.00

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to finalize service levels and the capital program for the 2024–2028 Financial Plan. The agenda also includes the adoption of minutes from the December 11, 2023, meeting.

• Finalizing service levels and the capital program for the 2024–2028 Financial Plan
• Adoption of the December 11, 2023, Committee of the Whole meeting minutes

The Committee of the Whole reviewed the proposed 2024–2028 financial plan and directed staff to prepare the budget with numerous changes. Staff reported the resulting plan includes a 12.5% tax increase in 2024 with $400,000 drawn from reserves, an 11.5% increase in 2025, and 4–6% annual increases anticipated for 2026–2028. Council approved several specific expenditures, including $35,000 for an arena brine pump and motor and $15,000 for a Civic Centre hot water tank, and directed staff to bring forward a bylaw for fees for picking up shopping carts. Many capital items were deferred, removed, or made contingent on grant funding.

• Directed staff to prepare the 2024–2028 budget with recorded changes; staff reported a 12.5% tax increase and $400,000 draw from reserves for 2024
• Directed $25,000 annually for the Grant in Aid program for the next 5 years, combined with Council Contingency
• Removed the business façade program from the budget for the next 5 years and reduced consultant costs by $30,000
• Approved $35,000 for the arena brine pump and motor and $15,000 for the Civic Centre hot water tank
• Directed staff to bring forward a bylaw for fees for picking up shopping carts
• Deferred Side Bed Re-Vamp at Maze ($7,500) and Lions Park Pathway Connections and Apron ($18,000)
• Deferred Self Contained Breathing Apparatus to 2028 and deferred the Fire Breathing apparatus purchase date
• Approved $25,000 carry over for concrete pads in 2024, deferring the residual to 2025

Policy Review Committee

The Policy Review Committee is meeting to review several draft policies. These include updates regarding the emergency broadcast system, honorariums, and a code of conduct for council and committee members.

• Voyent Alert Use Policy draft
• Honorarium Policy draft
• Code of Conduct for Council and Committee Members draft

The Policy Review Committee referred the Voyent Alert Use Policy and the First Nations Honorarium Policy for Cultural Services to a Regular Council Meeting. The committee also directed staff to revise the Code of Conduct Policy to include specific mediation and investigation options.

• Referred Emergency Broadcast System Usage Policy to Regular Council Meeting (Carried)
• Forwarded First Nations Honorarium Policy for Cultural Services to Regular Council Meeting (Carried)
• Directed staff to add mediation and investigation options to Code of Conduct Policy
• Directed staff to conduct environmental scan for Code of Conduct Policy
• Adopted December 7, 2023 meeting minutes (Carried)

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

The City Council will review several proposed bylaw amendments regarding fees, building codes, land use, and cemetery regulations. The meeting also includes a review of 2024 Grant in Aid requests and the approval of the annual financial audit plan.

• Proposed amendments to Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2358
• Proposed Building Code Bylaw Amendment No. 2359
• Review of 2024 Grant in Aid applications
• Approval of the annual financial audit plan for the year ended December 31, 2023
• Proposed Land Use and development approval procedures bylaw (No. 2362)

Council passed multiple bylaws regarding city fees, charges, and privacy. They also approved the 2023 audit plan and moved grant-in-aid applications to an ad hoc committee.

• Approved first, second, and third readings of Fees and Charges, Building, Civic Centre, Cemetery, and Land Use bylaws (Carried; Opposed: Councillor Olguin)
• Approved first, second, and third readings of Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Bylaw No. 2363 (Carried)
• Approved first, second, and third readings of Fraser Valley Inter-Municipal Business Licence Amendment Bylaw 2364 (Carried)
• Approved the audit plan for the year ended December 31, 2023 (Carried)
• Moved consideration of 2024 Grant in Aid applications to an ad hoc committee (Carried; Opposed: Councillor Etchart)
• Resolved to forward a resolution to the 2024 SILGA Convention requesting a dashboard on the impact of drug decriminalization in BC (Carried)
• Received the 2023 Year End Report for the Visitor Information Centre at the Baillie House for information (Carried)

Merritt City Council Regular Meeting

Council is reviewing several resolutions from the Committee of the Whole, including water and sewer risk management strategies. The agenda also includes a proposal to adjust freeboard design guidelines for the Middlesboro Bridge.

• Proposal to set water and sewer parcel tax rates at 5% for 2024, 2025, and 2026
• Proposed $25,000 total budget for community organization and event financial support
• Reduction of Middlesboro Bridge freeboard design guideline from 1.5m to 0.8m
• Grant application for the UBCM Community Resiliency Investment Program - 2024 FireSmart funding
• Adoption of City of Merritt Election and Assent Voting Bylaw No. 2357, 2023

Council authorized a grant application for airport rehabilitation and approved a long-term risk management strategy for water and sewer infrastructure. They also adopted a new election bylaw and approved a design change for the Middlesboro Bridge. A proposal to change the organizational chart and wages was defeated.

• Approved $2.35M airport runway and taxiway paving grant application
• Approved water and sewer infrastructure reserve strategy using general parcel tax
• Adopted City of Merritt Election and Assent Voting Bylaw No. 2357, 2023
• Approved reduction of Middlesboro Bridge freeboard design guideline to 0.8m
• Defeated recommended changes to organizational chart and wages
• Approved $25,000 total budget for community organizations and events
• Approved extension of permit fee waivers for 1201 McMillan Road until Dec 31, 2024
• Instructed staff to apply for UBCM Community Resiliency Investment grant