North Cowichan public meetings in 2022

Council - Regular

North Cowichan Council's regular meeting on December 21, 2022, includes adopting several bylaws (procedure, board of variance, revenue borrowing, zoning/building amendments), approving a pre-budget IT position, and authorizing a $30,000 grant application for marina firefighting training. The agenda also covers routine items like minutes, information items, and appointments.

• Adopt Council Procedure Amendment Bylaw No. 3888, 2022
• Adopt Board of Variance Amendment Bylaw No. 3889, 2022
• Adopt Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw No. 3890, 2022
• First/second reading of Zoning Bylaw Amendment No. 3891 (retaining walls & fences) and Building Bylaw Amendment No. 3892
• Pre-budget approval for full-time IT Client Support Specialist; $30,000 grant application for marina firefighting training

Council adopted four bylaws regarding council procedure, the Board of Variance, revenue borrowing, and building regulations. They also approved a new full-time IT Client Support Specialist position and a $1,500 grant for the Salish Sea Stones Project.

• Approved $1,500 grant in aid for Salish Sea Stones Project
• Adopted Council Procedure Amendment Bylaw No. 3888
• Adopted Board of Variance Amendment Bylaw No. 3889
• Adopted Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw No. 3890
• Approved first and second reading of Zoning Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 3891 (Retaining Walls & Fences)
• Approved first, second, and third readings of Building Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 3892 (Retaining Walls)
• Approved pre-budget funding for a permanent full-time IT Client Support Specialist
• Authorized $30,000 grant application for marina firefighting training

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will consider proposed increases to development application fees, review the 2023 Capital Expenditure Plan, and discuss the 2023-2027 operating budget, including several new staff positions. The committee will also adopt minutes from previous meetings and hear public input. No final decisions are made at this meeting; recommendations will go to Council.

• Proposed amendment to Fees & Charges Bylaw No. 3784 to increase development application fees
• 2023 Capital Expenditure Plan overview and supplemental project direction
• 2023-2027 Operating Budget review, including new positions (e.g., Senior Engineer, Parks Irrigation Technician, Development Planner, Senior Building Inspector, Utility Worker, Client Support Specialist)
• Conversion of two Bylaw Officer positions from temporary to permanent
• Adoption of minutes from June 7, November 22, and November 30, 2022 meetings

The Committee of the Whole approved increases to development application fees and identified several new staff positions for the 2023-2027 financial plan. They also authorized supplemental capital expenditures for boat and gangway projects and adjusted various reserve fund contributions.

• Approved increasing development application fees per the Director of Planning and Building report
• Added Crofton Boat Launch and Maple Bay Gangway to 2023 Capital Expenditure Plan
• Approved adding Senior Engineer, Development Planner, Senior Building Inspector, Utility Worker, Client Support Specialist, and two Bylaw Officers to 2023-2027 financial plan
• Approved $40,000 for Youth Outreach Program and $150,000 for Contract Senior Development Planner
• Allocated $40,000 for Sport Wall of Fame and $100,000 for Municipal Forest Management Plan from unappropriated surplus
• Maintained contributions to Quamichan Lake Reserve ($100,000) and Climate Action and Energy Reserve ($183,900)
• Reduced contributions to Agriculture Reserve ($30,000) and Insurance Reserve ($50,000)
• Directed staff to budget for 90% of total RCMP contract costs and reduce 2023 capital spending by $417,570

Council - Special

This is a special Council meeting with a single substantive item: a closed session under Community Charter section 90(1)(e) to discuss the disposition of land or improvements, where disclosure could harm municipal interests. The agenda is otherwise procedural, covering adoption of the agenda and adjournment. No public decisions or details on the land are provided.

• Closed session under section 90(1)(e) for disposition of land or improvements
• Meeting held electronically from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
• Agenda adoption requires unanimous vote for late items

Council met for a special session and moved into a closed meeting to discuss employee relations and the disposition of land. The council rose from the closed session without a report.

• Approved amended agenda to include employee relations matter
• Closed meeting to the public under Community Charter sections 90(1)(c) and 90(1)(e)

Council - Regular

North Cowichan Council is meeting electronically to consider several bylaws, including adoption of a housing agreement for below-market rental units, a zoning amendment for an infill residential zone, and procedural changes. They will also hear presentations on a regional health survey and the Duncan Curling Club, and receive reports on RCMP activities and the Town of Ladysmith's Official Community Plan. The agenda includes routine consent items and a closed session for confidential matters.

• Adoption of Paddle Road Housing Agreement Bylaw No. 3886, securing 37 below-market apartment units (at least 19 in first 3 phases) at Paddle Road residential development
• First and second readings of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3887 to rezone 3016 George Street to new Infill Residential Neighbourhood (R3-N) zone
• First three readings of Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw No. 3890, allowing short-term borrowing for municipal operations
• First three readings of Council Procedure Amendment Bylaw No. 3888 and Board of Variance Amendment Bylaw No. 3889 (electronic meetings)
• Presentation on 2023 Cowichan Valley health and wellness survey by Our Cowichan Communities Health Network and Island Health

Council adopted a housing agreement for Paddle Road and gave first and second readings to a zoning amendment for infill residential neighbourhoods. Several other bylaws regarding council procedure, the Board of Variance, and borrowing received their first three readings.

• Adopted Paddle Road Housing Agreement Bylaw No. 3886 (Carried)
• Gave first and second readings to Zoning Amendment Infill Residential Neighbourhood Bylaw No. 3887 and scheduled a Public Hearing (Carried)
• Gave first, second, and third readings to Council Procedure Amendment Bylaw No. 3888 (Carried)
• Gave first, second, and third readings to Board of Variance Amendment Bylaw No. 3889 (Carried)
• Gave first, second, and third readings to Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw No. 3890 (Carried)
• Authorized Mayor to notify Town of Ladysmith of no significant concerns regarding its Official Community Plan (Carried)
• Appointed Councillor Manhas to CVRD's Sports Tourism Grant Sub-Committee (Carried)
• Postponed indefinitely a motion to request government information on cloud seeding operations (Carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss the proposed 2023 business plans for six municipal departments: Operations, Engineering, Planning and Building, Environmental Services, Forestry, and Parks and Recreation. These plans support the upcoming 2023 budget deliberations and show how each service area will implement Council's Strategic Plan. The meeting is open to the public, with limited opportunity for input and questions.

• 2023 Operations Business Plan presentation by Director Shawn Cator
• 2023 Engineering Business Plan presentation by Director Clay Reitsma
• 2023 Planning and Building Business Plan presentation by Director Rob Conway
• 2023 Environmental Services Business Plan presentation by Director David Conway
• 2023 Forestry Business Plan presentation by Municipal Forester Shaun Mason

Council received presentations on 2023 business plans and projected deliverables from six departments. Several supplemental budget requests were presented for information and will be discussed on December 13, 2022. No substantive votes were taken on the plans or budget requests.

• Approved adoption of the agenda (Carried)
• Approved extension of the meeting to 11:00 p.m. (Carried)
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:50 p.m. (Carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss proposed 2023 business plans from multiple departments, including the CAO's office, RCMP, fire and bylaw services, and financial services. These plans are meant to support upcoming budget deliberations and show how each area will implement Council's strategic plan. The meeting is open to the public, with limited time for public input and questions.

• Presentation of 2023 business plans for CAO, Financial Services, Fire and Bylaw, HR, IT, Legislative Services, and RCMP
• Public input limited to 5 speakers, 3 minutes each
• Meeting held electronically via Cisco Webex, open to public
• Question period for public after business items

The Committee of the Whole received presentations on the 2023 business plans for the Office of the CAO and Corporate Services departments. These presentations outlined projected deliverables, staffing, and budget requests for information. No substantive votes were taken on the plans during this meeting.

• Approved the agenda as circulated
• Received 2023 business plan presentations for Office of the CAO, RCMP, Fire and Bylaw Services, Legislative Services, Human Resources, Financial Services, IT, and Information Management
• Noted supplemental budget requests for a Fire/Bylaw Administrative Assistant and two permanent Bylaw Officer positions for December 13 discussion
• Noted supplemental budget request for a Client Support Specialist position for December 13 discussion

Council - Regular and Public Hearings

North Cowichan Council will hold a regular meeting and public hearings, primarily deciding on a housing agreement for Paddle Road to secure below-market rental units, a land swap with Catalyst Paper, and funding for fire hall energy upgrades. The agenda also includes routine consent items, reports, and a discussion on meeting times.

• First three readings of Paddle Road Housing Agreement Bylaw No. 3886 to secure 37 below-market units (at least 19 in first 3 phases) before zoning for ~366 units
• Land swap with Catalyst Paper Corporation for continued waterline use (property disposition)
• Approve $204,375 from Climate Action and Energy Plan Reserve for Crofton Fire Hall energy efficiency upgrades
• Authorize grant application up to $200,000 for wildfire fuel hazard reduction on Mount Tzouhalem and Maple Mountain
• Endorse joint UBCM Asset Management Planning Grant application for ecological accounting expertise at Vancouver Island University

Council adopted a zoning amendment for 3833 Gibbins Road following a public hearing. The board also approved energy efficiency funding for the Crofton Fire Hall and a land swap with Catalyst Paper Corporation.

• Adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3883 for 3833 Gibbins Road
• Approved $204,375 grant and loan for Crofton Fire Hall energy efficiency
• Approved land swap with Catalyst Paper Corporation for waterline use
• Authorized grant application up to $200,000 for fuel hazard reduction
• Endorsed joint grant application for ecological accounting expertise
• Approved first, second, and third readings of Paddle Road Housing Agreement Bylaw No. 3886
• Directed staff to amend Council Procedure Bylaw regarding meeting times and cancellations
• Authorized seven individuals as signing authorities for RBC accounts

Council - Regular

This is the inaugural meeting of North Cowichan's newly elected council. The agenda is largely ceremonial and procedural: the oath of office is administered to the new mayor and six councillors, followed by appointments to regional boards, committees, and external bodies. No substantive policy decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

• Oath of office for Mayor Rob Douglas and Councillors Mike Caljouw, Bruce Findlay, Chris Istace, Christopher Justice, Tek Manhas, and Debra Toporowski
• Appointment of four municipal directors and alternates to the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) Board
• Appointment of two members to the Joint Utilities Board under Bylaw No. 1721, 1977
• Appointments to standing and select committees, including Forestry Advisory and Environmental Advisory Committees
• Appointments to external bodies including BC Forest Discovery Centre Board and Vancouver Island Regional Library Board

The inaugural council meeting focused on the administration of Oaths of Office and the appointment of council members to various regional boards, committees, and external organizations. Council also designated an Acting Mayor and accepted the 2022 general local election results.

• Accepted 2022 general local election results report
• Appointed Councillor Toporowski as Acting Mayor
• Appointed Mayor Douglas, Councillor Justice, Councillor Manhas and Councillor Toporowski as Municipal Directors to the CVRD Board
• Appointed Councillor Istace, Councillor Caljouw, and Councillor Findlay as Alternate Directors to the CVRD Board
• Appointed Councillor Caljouw to the Environmental Advisory Committee and Mayor Douglas to the Forestry Advisory Committee
• Appointed Councillor Findlay and Councillor Justice to the Joint Utilities Board
• Appointed representatives to the Cowichan Centre Commission, Vancouver Island Regional Library Board, and City of Duncan advisory committees
• Appointed council members as non-voting members to 11 external bodies including local chambers of commerce and community societies

Council - Regular

North Cowichan Council is meeting to consider several bylaws, including adopting a zoning amendment that would allow accessory dwelling units on rural parcels, and a permissive tax exemption for a property on Willow Street. They will also review draft forest management scenarios from a UBC partnership and discuss options for zero-carbon new buildings. The meeting includes public input and question periods, and will close to discuss a land disposition.

• Adoption of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3876 (Rural Accessory Dwelling Units), permitting accessory dwellings on parcels 2ha or greater in A-1, A-2, A-3, A-5 zones
• Adoption of Permissive Tax Exemption Amendment Bylaw No. 3877, exempting units at 9806 Willow Street leased by Cowichan Neighbourhood House Association
• First and second readings of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3883 to permit a garden suite at 3833 Gibbins Road
• Endorsement of UBC Partnership Group Draft Forest Management Scenario Summary and proceeding with Round 2 of forestry public engagement
• Directing staff to review Building Bylaw No. 3172 and BC Energy Step Code Rebate Policy after BC Building Code update

Council endorsed the UBC Partnership Group Draft Forest Management Scenario Summary and directed staff to proceed with Round 2 of public engagement, adding an in-person consultation component and authorizing up to $10,000 for it. Several zoning and bylaw amendments were adopted, including one permitting rural accessory dwelling units. Council also authorized a land swap with Catalyst Paper Corporation for a waterline.

• Endorsed UBC forest management scenario summary and directed Round 2 engagement with in-person component (opposed: Councillor Manhas)
• Authorized up to $10,000 for in-person public engagement on forest management
• Adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw (Rural Accessory Dwelling Units) No. 3876
• Adopted Permissive Tax Exemption Amendment Bylaw No. 3877
• Adopted Bylaw Offence Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 3881 and Municipal Ticket Information System Amendment Bylaw No. 3882
• Gave first and second readings to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3883 for a detached accessory dwelling at 3833 Gibbins Road, authorized public hearing
• Directed staff to review Building Bylaw No. 3172 and BC Energy Step Code Rebate Policy after BC Building Code update
• Authorized terms of land swap with Catalyst Paper Corporation for waterline property

Board of Variance

The Board of Variance will consider an application to relax zoning bylaws regarding setbacks. The applicant is seeking relief from minimum required setbacks from the property boundary and the natural boundary of the sea.

• Board of Variance Application No. BOV000012: setback relaxation for a new deck at 894 Arbutus Avenue

The Board of Variance approved application BOV000012 to relax minimum required setbacks from the property line and ocean boundary to legalize a deck at 894 Arbutus Avenue. The applicant cited undue hardship due to the house location and septic system. No written comments from adjacent property owners were received. The Board also voted to move future meetings to a hybrid model (in-person or virtual), subject to staff approval.

• Approved variance BOV000012 to relax setbacks for deck at 894 Arbutus Avenue (carried)
• Approved hybrid meeting model for future Board of Variance meetings (carried)

Forestry Advisory Committee

The Forestry Advisory Committee is meeting electronically to receive a presentation from the UBC Partnership Group on draft forest management scenarios. The committee will consider recommending that the draft scenario summary be referred to Council as presented. The agenda also includes adopting minutes from a June 30, 2020 meeting.

• Presentation from UBC Partnership Group on draft forest management scenarios
• Recommendation to refer Draft Forest Management Scenario Summary to Council
• Adoption of minutes from June 30, 2020 meeting

The Forestry Advisory Committee voted to refer the UBC Partnership Group's Draft Forest Management Scenario Summary to Council as presented. The scenarios—Status Quo, Reduced Harvest, Active Conservation, and Passive Conservation—are reference points for council and public discussion. The committee noted this was its last meeting; the next council will decide whether to continue the committee.

• Referred UBC draft forest management scenario summary to Council (carried)

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Environmental Advisory Committee will discuss options for zero-carbon new buildings, including a recommendation to Council to review the Building Bylaw and Energy Step Code Rebate Policy once the BC Building Code is updated. They will also receive a verbal update on the Biodiversity Protection Policy and recognize members for end of term.

• Discussion of options for zero-carbon new buildings
• Recommendation to review Building Bylaw No. 3172 and BC Energy Step Code Rebate Policy
• Verbal update on Biodiversity Protection Policy
• Adoption of minutes from April 26 and July 26, 2022 meetings
• End of term recognition for committee members

The Environmental Advisory Committee recommended that Council direct staff to review Building Bylaw No. 3172 and the BC Energy Step Code Rebate Policy once the BC Building Code update is released, to align with the Energy Step Code and Carbon Pollution Standard. The committee also received updates on the Biodiversity Protection Policy and recognized members for their service.

• Recommended Council direct staff to review Building Bylaw No. 3172 and BC Energy Step Code Rebate Policy after BC Building Code update (carried)
• Adopted agenda as amended (carried)
• Adopted minutes of April 26, 2022 and July 26, 2022 (carried)

Council - Regular and Public Hearings

North Cowichan Council will hold a regular meeting and three public hearings on September 21, 2022. The council will consider adopting the 2022-2026 Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw, give readings to a permissive tax exemption for a Cowichan Neighbourhood House property, and update enforcement bylaws for political signs. Reports include reviewing the Safer Community Plan, applying for a $150,000 climate adaptation grant, and addressing septic tank management and blue-green algae in Quamichan Lake. The public hearings will address zoning amendments for high-density residential use at Drinkwater and Ford Roads, cannabis retail at 3288 Cowichan Lake Road, and a four-plex at Gibbins Road.

• Public hearing: Zoning Bylaw Amendment No. 3868 (3005, 3011 Drinkwater Road & 6455 Ford Road, R1 to CD23) for high-density residential
• Public hearing: Zoning Bylaw Amendment No. 3878 (3288 Cowichan Lake Road) to permit cannabis retail sales
• Public hearing: Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3685 (3181, 3183 Gibbins Road, R3 to R3-MF) to permit a four-plex
• Adoption of Five-Year Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 3879
• Support grant application for up to $150,000 for Climate Change Risk and Vulnerability Assessment

Council held public hearings and then adopted three zoning bylaws: one rezoning three properties on Drinkwater and Ford Roads to a comprehensive development zone, one allowing cannabis retail at 3288 Cowichan Lake Road, and one rezoning two properties on Gibbins Road to a multi-family zone. Council also terminated the lease for the Community Safety Office at 490 Trans-Canada Highway and directed staff to find a new location. A grant application for up to $150,000 for a climate adaptation assessment was supported.

• Adopted Zoning Bylaw Amendment No. 3868 (3005, 3011 Drinkwater Road & 6455 Ford Road from R1 to CD23) (carried)
• Adopted Zoning Bylaw Amendment No. 3878 (3288 Cowichan Lake Road – Cannabis Sales) (carried)
• Adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3685 (3181, 3183 Gibbins Road; R3 to R3-MF) (carried)
• Terminated lease for Community Safety Office at 490 Trans-Canada Highway (carried)
• Directed staff to find a new location for Community Safety Office (carried)
• Supported grant application to Community Emergency Preparedness Fund for up to $150,000 for climate adaptation assessment (carried)
• Adopted Five-Year Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 3879 (carried)
• Gave first, second, and third readings to Bylaw Offence Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 3881 and Municipal Ticket Information System Amendment Bylaw No. 3882 (carried)

Council - Regular and Public Hearings

North Cowichan Council will consider adopting several bylaws, including the Crofton Fire Hall Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 3863, which was approved by electors through an alternative approval process. The meeting also includes a public hearing for a zoning amendment on Paddle Road that would create a new comprehensive development zone, and a request to amend the bylaw to require 90% of parking be underground. Council will also decide on a $1,000 grant to the Penelakut Tribe for a Truth and Reconciliation event.

• Adoption of Crofton Fire Hall Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 3863
• Public hearing for Zoning Bylaw Amendment No. 3867 (Paddle Road, rezone to CD22)
• Proposed amendment to require 90% of off-street parking underground in CD22 zone
• Adoption of Zoning Amendment Bylaw 3871 (7167 Bell McKinnon Road, second dwelling unit)
• Consideration of $1,000 grant-in-aid to Penelakut Tribe for Truth and Reconciliation

Council adopted several bylaws including the Crofton Fire Hall Loan Authorization Bylaw and zoning amendments for properties on Bell McKinnon Road and Paddle Road. They also directed staff to allocate climate action program funding, approved a $1,000 grant for Penelakut Tribe's Truth and Reconciliation event, and authorized letters to the province on rental increases and Island Coastal Economic Trust funding.

• Adopted Crofton Fire Hall Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 3863 (unanimous)
• Adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3871 for 7167 Bell McKinnon Road (unanimous)
• Adopted Waterworks Amendment Bylaw No. 3874 (opposed: Manhas)
• Gave first three readings to 2022-2026 Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 3879 (opposed: Manhas)
• Directed staff to allocate Local Government Climate Action Program funding for 2023-2025 (opposed: Manhas)
• Approved $1,000 grant-in-aid to Penelakut Tribe for Truth and Reconciliation event (unanimous)
• Authorized mayor to write letter to province requesting regulation of rental increases between tenants (opposed: Manhas, Siebring)
• Amended Zoning Bylaw No. 3867 for Paddle Road properties to require 90% underground parking, then gave third reading (unanimous)

Council - Regular and Public Hearings

The Council will consider several bylaws including a new Official Community Plan and zoning amendments. Additional items include a $3,000 grant for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and awarding a furniture contract for the new RCMP building.

• Official Community Plan Bylaw 3900 adoption
• Zoning Amendment Bylaw 3873 adoption
• Zoning Amendment Bylaw 3867 (Paddle Road) second reading
• Zoning Amendment Bylaw 3685 (Gibbins Road) second reading
• Zoning Amendment Bylaw 3878 (3288 Cowichan Lake Road) cannabis retail sales

Council adopted the Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 3900, 2022, with Mayor Siebring opposed. Several zoning amendments were advanced, including second readings for Paddle Road and Gibbins Road properties, and a cannabis retail sales application at 3288 Cowichan Lake Road. A motion to reimburse Councillor Marsh for lost remuneration was defeated. Council also approved a $3,000 grant for the Every Child Matters March and awarded a $608,772.05 furniture contract for the civic building.

• Adopted Official Community Plan Bylaw 3900 (4-1, Siebring opposed)
• Gave second reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw 3867 (Paddle Road) as amended
• Gave second reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw 3685 (Gibbins Road) as amended
• Gave first and second reading to cannabis retail sales bylaw for 3288 Cowichan Lake Road
• Defeated motion to reimburse Councillor Marsh for lost remuneration (3-3)
• Approved $3,000 grant-in-aid to M'akola Housing Society for Every Child Matters March
• Awarded $608,772.05 furniture contract to Graphic Office Interiors for civic building
• Authorized $500 sponsorship for WildWings Nature & Arts Festival

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting electronically to discuss the Phase 2 report of the Master Transportation Plan and provide recommendations to Council. The agenda also includes an introduction to the new Climate Change Specialist and a verbal update on the Biodiversity Protection Policy project. No decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Presentation on Phase 2 report for Master Transportation Plan by Nadine King (WATT Consulting)
• Introduction to new Climate Change Specialist Jennifer Aldcroft
• Verbal update on Biodiversity Protection Policy project by Dave Preikshot

The Environmental Advisory Committee recommended Council endorse an increased focus on green corridors, watershed protection, right-of-ways including the E&N corridor, and scenic/historic roads in the Master Transportation Plan. The motion was carried. The committee also received updates on the Biodiversity Protection Policy and the forestry review, but took no other substantive decisions.

• Recommended Council endorse increased focus on green corridors, watersheds, right-of-ways, and scenic roads in Master Transportation Plan (carried)

Council - Regular and Public Hearings

North Cowichan Council is meeting electronically on July 20, 2022, to consider several zoning amendments, land purchases, and grant applications. Key items include second reading of bylaws for high-density residential and commercial developments on Paddle Road, Drinkwater Road, and Ford Road, as well as first and second readings for a duplex allowance on Viewtop Road and accessory dwellings in rural zones. Council will also vote on purchasing Lot A River Road for $9,000 for park purposes and approving a grant application for a childcare facility.

• Second reading of Zoning Amendment Bylaw 3867 (Paddle Road) and 3868 (Drinkwater/Ford Road) for high-density uses
• First and second readings of Zoning Amendment Bylaw 3875 to allow duplexes at 1234 Viewtop Road
• First and second readings of Zoning Amendment Bylaw 3876 for accessory dwellings on rural parcels 2ha or larger
• Purchase of Lot A River Road from Artisan Gardens Strata for $9,000 for park and conservation
• Authorization to apply for $18,000,000 grant for Parkside Academy Childcare facility

Council gave second reading to three zoning amendment bylaws (Nos. 3867, 3868, 3869) and scheduled public hearings, with conditions on unit sizes and non-market housing phasing for No. 3867. It also gave first and second readings to Bylaw No. 3875 (Viewtop Road) and Bylaw No. 3876, and first, second, and third readings to Bylaw No. 3873. Council approved the purchase of Lot A River Road for $9,000, authorized a childcare facility grant application, and adopted the Climate Action and Energy Plan Reserve Fund Terms of Reference.

• Approved purchase of Lot A River Road for $9,000 from Artisan Gardens Strata (carried)
• Authorized application to Childcare BC New Spaces Fund for Parkside Academy facility, est. $18M (carried)
• Adopted revised Climate Action and Energy Plan Reserve Fund Terms of Reference (opposed: Manhas, Siebring)
• Gave second reading to OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 3869 and scheduled public hearing (carried)
• Gave second reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3867 (Paddle Road) with amendments and scheduled public hearing (carried)
• Gave second reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3868 (Drinkwater/Ford Road) and scheduled public hearing (opposed: Douglas, Justice)
• Gave first and second readings to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3875 (Viewtop Road) and scheduled public hearing (carried)
• Gave first, second, and third readings to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3873 (carried)

Public Hearings Agenda

The Municipality of North Cowichan held a two-part public hearing on July 18-19, 2022, for the proposed Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 3900. No vote or decision was made; the hearing was for public input only. The bylaw is scheduled for further consideration at the August 17, 2022 regular council meeting.

• Adjourned Part 1 of public hearing at 6:18 p.m. on July 18, 2022
• Closed public hearing at 9:13 p.m. on July 19, 2022
• Scheduled OCP Bylaw No. 3900 for further consideration at August 17, 2022 council meeting

Council - Special

This agenda for the July 12, 2022 special meeting of North Cowichan Council contains only procedural boilerplate and no listed agenda items, decisions, or discussions. The document appears to be a placeholder with no substantive content for residents.

The special council meeting on July 12, 2022, was called to order and the agenda was adopted. Council then moved into a closed session to discuss legal advice and potential litigation, citing sections 90(1)(g) and 90(1)(i) of the Community Charter. No substantive decisions were made in open session, and the meeting adjourned without any public reports.

• Adopted the agenda as circulated (carried)
• Closed the meeting to the public for legal advice and litigation matters (carried)

Council - Special

This special Council meeting has one main item: directing staff to start an Alternative Approval Process (AAP) for borrowing up to $4.8 million to replace the Crofton Fire Hall. The project involves demolishing the 1964 building and building a smaller addition. The public can submit elector response forms from July 22 to August 22, 2022.

• Alternative Approval Process for Crofton Fire Hall Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 3863, 2022
• Borrowing up to $4,800,000 for fire hall replacement
• Demolish 1964 building (7,200 sq ft) and build 3,636 sq ft addition
• Elector response period: July 22 to August 22, 2022
• Approval threshold: fewer than 2,868 elector responses (10% of 28,684 eligible electors)

Council directed staff to begin an alternative approval process (AAP) for the Crofton Fire Hall Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 3863, 2022, which would fund a $4.8 million debenture to replace the 1964 building with a smaller addition. The 30-day elector response period runs from July 22 to August 22, 2022, with approval assumed if fewer than 10% (2,868) of the 28,684 eligible electors submit responses. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Directed Corporate Officer to undertake AAP for Crofton Fire Hall Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 3863, 2022 (carried)
• Set elector response period July 22–August 22, 2022 (carried)
• Determined 28,684 eligible electors; approval threshold is fewer than 2,868 responses (carried)
• Established single-response elector response form available at Municipal Hall and online (carried)

Council - Joint Special with Cowichan Tribes

This is a joint special meeting of the City of Duncan and the Municipality of North Cowichan councils, held electronically. The councils will receive presentations and reports on the City of Duncan's draft Transportation and Mobility Strategy, the issue of people living temporarily in recreational vehicles due to housing affordability, an update on the Canada Avenue Complete Street project, and the Trans-Canada Highway Corridor Management Plan. All items are for information only, with no decisions scheduled.

• Presentation on City of Duncan draft Transportation and Mobility Strategy by Urban Systems
• Report on regulation of people living temporarily in recreational vehicles (housing affordability crisis)
• Update on Canada Avenue Complete Street project from Evans to Sherman Road, including Friendship Trail
• Update on Trans-Canada Highway Corridor Management Plan actions
• Public input and question period limited to 5 speakers, 3 minutes each

The joint special council meeting of North Cowichan and Duncan approved a motion directing staff to research options for regulating people living temporarily in recreational vehicles due to the housing affordability crisis, with a report back at a future joint meeting. Both councils also received informational reports on the Canada Avenue Complete Street project and the Trans-Canada Highway Corridor Management Plan, and heard a presentation on Duncan's draft Transportation and Mobility Strategy. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Directed staff to research options for regulating temporary RV living (carried)
• Received report on RV regulation for information only (carried)
• Received Canada Ave Complete Street project update for information (carried)
• Received Trans-Canada Highway Corridor Management Plan report for information (carried)

First Nations Relations Committee

The First Nations Relations Committee will review proposed amendments to its Terms of Reference, discuss how North Cowichan will acknowledge the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September 30, 2022), and receive a staff presentation on implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action. The agenda also includes routine adoption of minutes and a closed session for items related to law enforcement and confidential negotiations.

• Review and discuss amendments to the First Nations Relations Committee Terms of Reference
• Discussion on acknowledging the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day) in 2022
• Staff presentation on implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action
• Closed session under Community Charter sections 90(1)(f), 90(1)(m), and 90(2)(b)

The First Nations Relations Committee recommended that Council direct staff to research municipal contributions, both financial and organizational, to National Day for Truth and Reconciliation events on September 30, 2022, and return with recommendations. The Committee also requested the Mayor update its Terms of Reference, received a presentation on Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, and authorized electronic meetings through December 31, 2022. The meeting then moved into closed session.

• Requested Mayor update First Nations Relations Committee Terms of Reference (carried)
• Recommended Council direct staff to research contributions to National Day for Truth and Reconciliation events (carried)
• Received Deputy CAO presentation on Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action (carried)
• Authorized electronic meetings for the Committee from June 17 to December 31, 2022 (carried)
• Closed meeting to public under Community Charter sections 90(1)(f), 90(1)(m), and 90(2)(b) (carried)

Council - Regular and Public Hearings

North Cowichan Council will decide on the 2023 budget direction, including a proposed 9.26% increase cap, and consider several zoning amendments for second dwellings. They will also review grant applications for a $10 million childcare facility and a $200,000 natural assets project, plus receive the 2021 Annual Report and Forestry Report. Public hearings are scheduled for zoning bylaws at 934 Khenipsen Road and 7167 Bell McKinnon Road.

• 2023 budget direction: cap increase at 9.26%, limit capital from taxes to 10.4%
• Childcare BC New Spaces Fund grant application for $10,000,000 (Parkside Academy, Morton Way)
• Strategic Priorities Fund grant application for up to $200,000 (Natural Assets into Asset Management Plan)
• Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3871 (7167 Bell McKinnon Road) for second dwelling
• Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3870 (964 Pacific Place) recommended for denial

Council denied a zoning application for a second detached dwelling at 964 Pacific Place (opposed: Manhas). They also approved support for an affordable housing project at 3191 Sherman Road, including a $75,000 commitment from the Affordable Housing Fund, and authorized a $10 million childcare grant application. Several other bylaws and reports were adopted or received.

• Denied Zoning Amendment Application ZB000159 for second dwelling at 964 Pacific Place (opposed: Manhas)
• Approved support for affordable housing at 3191 Sherman Road: invited grant-in-aid up to $432,000, permissive tax exemption, and committed $75,000 from Affordable Housing Fund (opposed: Manhas)
• Authorized application to Childcare BC New Spaces Fund for $10,000,000 with Parkside Academy Childcare Society for Morton Way facility
• Authorized grant application up to $200,000 for Integrating Natural Assets into Asset Management Plan
• Gave first and second readings to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3871 (7167 Bell McKinnon Road) for second dwelling
• Gave second reading to Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 3869, 2022
• Gave third reading and adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3798 (second dwelling at 934 Khenipsen Road)
• Approved 2023 budget timeline with direction to keep budget increase as low as possible

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss and provide direction on several items, including the Master Transportation Plan Phase 2 report, a replacement engagement plan for the Maple Bay Wharf, a proposed zoning bylaw amendment for rural accessory dwelling units, and meeting requests for the UBCM Convention. They will also consider lifting the conference travel moratorium.

• Direct WATT Consulting to test transportation plan objectives with public consultation and First Nations input
• Recommend Council accept Maple Bay Wharf Concept Design Support Report and proceed with engagement plan
• Direct staff to prepare zoning bylaw amendment for rural accessory dwelling units
• Discuss UBCM Convention meeting requests with Premier Horgan and Minister Cullen; deadline June 24, 2022
• Recommend lifting conference travel moratorium effective February 16, 2022

The Committee of the Whole directed staff to have WATT Consulting test transportation plan objectives with public and stakeholder consultation, and to seek First Nations input. It also recommended Council accept the Maple Bay Wharf Concept Design Support Report and proceed with its engagement work plan. Staff were directed to prepare a zoning bylaw amendment for rural accessory dwelling units, and Council recommended lifting the 2020 conference travel moratorium.

• Directed WATT Consulting to test transportation plan objectives with public consultation (opposed: Manhas)
• Directed staff to seek First Nations consultation for the Master Transportation Plan
• Recommended Council accept Maple Bay Wharf Concept Design Support Report
• Recommended Council authorize staff to proceed with Maple Bay Wharf engagement work plan
• Directed staff to prepare zoning bylaw amendment for rural accessory dwelling units
• Recommended Council lift conference travel moratorium effective February 16, 2022

Council - Special

This agenda for the June 1, 2022 special meeting of North Cowichan Council contains only procedural boilerplate and no listed agenda items, decisions, or discussion topics. The document appears to be a system-generated placeholder with no substantive content.

The special council meeting was called to order and the agenda was adopted. Council then moved into a closed session under solicitor-client privilege and adjourned without reporting any decisions to the public.

• Adopted the agenda as circulated (carried)
• Closed the meeting to the public under Community Charter 90(1)(i) for solicitor-client privilege (carried)

Council - Regular

Council will consider several items including a biodiversity protection budget increase, a rezoning request for 3110 Moorfield Road, and options for an Official Community Plan public hearing. The agenda also includes reports on RCMP activities and a standards of conduct complaint.

• Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3872 for 3110 Moorfield Road
• Biodiversity Protection Policy budget increase from $50,000 to $100,000
• Contract award to Diamond Head Consulting for $89,985 plus GST
• Financial support of up to $1,000 for Halalt First Nation National Indigenous Peoples Day event
• Reimbursement of $495.04 in legal fees for Councillor Toporowski

Council imposed the recommendations from the standards-of-conduct investigation into a complaint by Mayor Siebring against Councillor Marsh, with Councillor Douglas opposed. Council also gave first and second readings to a zoning amendment for 3110 Moorfield Road, scheduled a public hearing for the Official Community Plan, and approved a $89,985 contract for a Biodiversity Protection Policy. A motion to cap council remuneration CPI adjustments at 2% was defeated.

• Imposed standards-of-conduct recommendations on Councillor Marsh (opposed: Douglas)
• Gave first and second readings to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3872 (3110 Moorfield Road, R3 to R3-CH)
• Scheduled OCP Bylaw No. 3900 public hearing for July 18-19, 2022, with dinner break
• Approved $89,985 contract to Diamond Head Consulting for Biodiversity Protection Policy
• Reimbursed Councillor Toporowski $495.04 in legal fees
• Approved up to $1,000 support for Halalt First Nation's National Indigenous Peoples Day event
• Approved election cost-sharing agreements with CVRD and School District No. 79
• Defeated motion to cap council remuneration CPI adjustments at 2%

Council - Regular

Council approved borrowing $22 million for the North Cowichan/Duncan Integrated RCMP Facility, authorized a grant application for up to $6 million for a water main and trail project, and gave first readings to two zoning amendments. Council also directed staff to negotiate inclusionary housing requirements for both Paddle Road and Ford Road developments before second reading.

• Approved $22M borrowing for RCMP facility (carried)
• Authorized grant application up to $6M for Trans-Canada Highway water main and trail project (carried)
• Gave first reading to OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 3869 (carried)
• Gave first reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3867 for Paddle Road properties (carried)
• Directed staff to negotiate non-market rental units for Paddle Road development (opposed: Manhas, Siebring)
• Gave first reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3868 for Drinkwater/Ford Road properties (carried)
• Directed staff to negotiate non-market rental units for Ford Road development (opposed: Siebring)
• Repealed and replaced Procurement Policy (opposed: Marsh)

Council - Special

This is a special Council meeting held electronically, with the primary purpose of moving into a closed session. The closed session is authorized under Community Charter sections 90(1)(g) and 90(1)(i) to discuss litigation or potential litigation and solicitor-client privileged advice. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no public business items listed.

• Closed session under Community Charter 90(1)(g) for litigation or potential litigation
• Closed session under Community Charter 90(1)(i) for solicitor-client privileged advice

The special council meeting was called to order and the agenda was adopted. Council then moved into a closed session citing litigation and solicitor-client privilege, and rose without reporting any decisions. The meeting adjourned without any substantive public actions.

• Adopted agenda as circulated (carried)
• Closed meeting to public under Community Charter s.90(1)(g) and (i) (carried)

Council - Regular

North Cowichan Council is meeting to adopt the 2022 tax rate and financial plan amendment bylaws, introduce water restriction amendments, and discuss next steps for the Official Community Plan. They will also consider a Safer Community Plan partnership with Duncan, support for National Indigenous Peoples Day, and accept audited financial statements.

• Adoption of Five-Year Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 3865 and Tax Rates Bylaw No. 3864
• First three readings of Waterworks Amendment Bylaw No. 3866 to add water restrictions
• Referral of OCP Bylaw 3900 to Agricultural Land Commission
• Up to $15,000 contribution to City of Duncan for Peer Sharps Clean-Up Crew Program
• Up to $5,000 support for Cowichan Tribes National Indigenous Peoples Day event

Council adopted the Five-Year Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 3865 and Tax Rates Bylaw No. 3864 for 2022, and gave three readings to Waterworks Amendment Bylaw No. 3866. It also approved next steps for the Official Community Plan, including referral to the Agricultural Land Commission, and authorized funding for community safety programs.

• Adopted Five-Year Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 3865, 2022
• Adopted Tax Rates Bylaw No. 3864, 2022
• Gave first, second, and third readings to Waterworks Amendment Bylaw No. 3866 (opposed: Justice)
• Approved OCP referral to Agricultural Land Commission (opposed: Manhas)
• Authorized City of Duncan to extend Security Ambassadors program for 2 years
• Approved up to $15,000 for Peer Sharps Clean-Up Crew Program
• Authorized up to $5,000 for National Indigenous Peoples Day event
• Amended Flag Protocol Policy to include Pride Flag display on May 17

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Environmental Advisory Committee will receive a presentation on community solar energy, review revised Terms of Reference for the Climate Action and Energy Plan (CAEP) Reserve Fund, and consider rescheduling or cancelling upcoming meetings. It will also discuss a letter from the Cowichan Climate Hub about reducing GHG emissions in the built environment and prioritize future work items.

• Community Solar Power presentation by Mr. Peter Nix and Tom Mommsen
• Review of revised CAEP Reserve Fund Terms of Reference, including adding a purpose statement and eliminating fixed fund distribution
• Proposal to reschedule May 17, July 19, and September 20 meetings to the fourth Tuesday, and cancel November 15 meeting
• Letter from Cowichan Climate Hub (March 12, 2022) on reducing GHG emissions in built environment
• Prioritization of environmental policy review actions, district energy feasibility study, and climate risk assessment

The Environmental Advisory Committee made several recommendations to Council regarding the Climate Action and Energy Plan Reserve Fund, including amending eligibility criteria and requiring annual transaction reports. They also prioritized their work items, with environmental policy review actions as the top priority. The committee heard a presentation on community solar power but took no formal action on it.

• Recommended Council amend Reserve Fund eligibility to include non-profits (carried)
• Recommended Council require annual Reserve Fund transaction report to committee (carried)
• Recommended Council remove committee's proposal evaluation role from Reserve Fund terms (carried)
• Recommended Council refer Cowichan Climate Hub letter to staff for report back (carried)
• Prioritized initiatives: environmental policy review, climate risk assessment, district energy study (carried)
• Rescheduled May 17 meeting to May 24, July 19 to July 26, Sept 20 to Sept 27; cancelled Nov 15 (carried)

Council - Special

This special Council meeting is called to correct an administrative oversight in Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 3900. Council will consider rescinding its April 20, 2022 resolution and giving first reading to the bylaw again. The agenda includes public input and question periods, but the only business item is this procedural correction.

• Rescind resolution of April 20, 2022 regarding OCP Bylaw No. 3900
• Give first reading to OCP Bylaw 3900, 2022
• Public input limited to 5 speakers, 3 minutes each
• Meeting held electronically via Cisco Webex

Council rescinded its April 20, 2022 resolution regarding Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 3900, 2022, and gave first reading to the bylaw again. The motion carried unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Rescinded April 20, 2022 resolution on OCP Bylaw 3900 (carried)
• Gave first reading to OCP Bylaw 3900, 2022 (carried)

Council - Regular

North Cowichan Council is meeting electronically to consider several bylaws, including first reading of a new Official Community Plan, adoption of fee and financial plan amendments, and property tax rates. The agenda also includes routine consent items, reports, and a closed session for a personnel matter.

• First reading of Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 3900, replacing Bylaw No. 3450
• Adoption of Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3838 (parks and recreation fees)
• Adoption of Five-Year Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 3862 (Crofton Fire Hall, Fuller Lake Park playground)
• First three readings of Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 3865 and Tax Rates Bylaw No. 3864
• Purchase of wildfire gear and equipment for $70,000 plus taxes

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting electronically to review options for distributing the 2022 property tax among property classes and will direct staff on which option to use for drafting the Tax Rates Bylaw. The agenda also includes routine items: adopting the agenda, approving minutes from March 8, 2022, and periods for public input and questions.

• Review of 2022 Property Tax Distribution Options with three detailed calculation attachments
• Direction to staff to draft Tax Rates Bylaw based on chosen option
• Adoption of March 8, 2022 Committee of the Whole minutes
• Public input and question period for agenda items

The Committee of the Whole directed staff to draft the 2022 Tax Rates Bylaw based on the October 12, 2021 direction, using Option 2 as attached to the financial report. It also approved removing the $147,000 allocated to E-Comm 911 from the budget. The motion carried unanimously.

• Directed staff to draft Tax Rates Bylaw using Option 2 (carried)
• Removed $147,000 E-Comm 911 allocation from budget (carried)

Council - Regular

North Cowichan Council is meeting to decide on several items, including adopting bylaws for elections, signs, zoning, and the financial plan, as well as awarding construction contracts for the new Civic Building. They will also discuss the Crofton Fire Hall redevelopment project and its loan authorization, and consider updates to the Climate Action and Energy Plan Reserve Fund terms.

• Award contracts for Civic Building: Milltech Millwork $854,010, Dryco Systems $734,700, Milestone Equipment $1,032,414
• Adopt Zoning Amendment Bylaw (1379 Maple Bay Road) No. 3822 for second dwelling
• Consider abandoning Zoning Amendment Bylaw (934 Khenipsen Road) No. 3798
• First three readings for Crofton Fire Hall Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 3863
• Adopt Election and Assent Voting Bylaw No. 3837 and Sign Amendment Bylaw No. 3836

Council awarded three construction contracts for the North Cowichan Civic Building totaling about $2.62 million plus GST, covering architectural woodwork, acoustical ceilings, and landscaping. They also adopted several bylaws, including zoning amendments and the 2022-2026 Financial Plan Amendment, and approved the Crofton Fire Hall communications strategy. A motion to support a basic income guarantee was carried, with opposition from Councillors Manhas and Siebring.

• Awarded $854,010 woodwork contract to Milltech Millwork (carried)
• Awarded $734,700 acoustical ceilings contract to Dryco Systems Inc. (carried)
• Awarded $1,032,414 landscaping contract to Milestone Equipment Contracting Inc. (carried)
• Adopted Election and Assent Voting Bylaw No. 3837 and Sign Amendment Bylaw No. 3836 (carried)
• Adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw (1379 Maple Bay Road) No. 3822 (carried)
• Gave second reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw (934 Khenipsen Road) No. 3798 (carried)
• Gave first three readings to 2022-2026 Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 3862 (carried)
• Gave first three readings to Crofton Fire Hall Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 3863 (carried)

Board of Variance

The Board of Variance held an orientation and review session, adopted its agenda and prior minutes, and elected Dan Robin as chair by acclamation for a one-year term ending March 15, 2023. Members were reminded to submit signed acknowledgement forms for the Respectful Spaces Bylaw and Standards of Conduct Policy by April 15, 2022. The board also accepted its 2022 meeting schedule and agreed to continue meeting electronically for now. No substantive decisions on applications or variances were made.

• Adopted agenda as circulated
• Adopted minutes of January 27, 2022 meeting
• Set Board of Variance Chair term as one year ending March 15, 2023
• Elected Dan Robin as Chair by acclamation
• Accepted 2022 Board of Variance meeting schedule
• Agreed to continue electronic meetings until members are comfortable meeting in-person

Council - Regular

North Cowichan Council is meeting to decide on several items, including adopting utility fee and parcel tax bylaws, giving first readings to election and sign bylaws, and considering amendments to the draft Official Community Plan. They will also discuss long-term borrowing for the Crofton Fire Hall redevelopment and a regional emergency preparedness grant application.

• Adopt Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3859 and Sewer and Water Parcel Tax Bylaw No. 3860 for 2022
• First three readings of Election and Assent Voting Bylaw No. 3837 and Sign Amendment Bylaw No. 3836
• Direct staff to revise draft Official Community Plan with specific amendments, including Crosland Place parcels and Anzio Road
• Support CVRD application for $125,000 Community Emergency Preparedness Fund for a mobile emergency operations centre
• Approve scope change for Crofton Fire Hall Building Replacement Project from 2,150 to 3,636 sq ft, budget increase from $3.5M to $4.8M

Council spent most of the meeting considering and voting on a large number of amendments to the draft Official Community Plan (OCP), approving most of them. A motion to add 'strive to' to the heading 'The Municipality Will' was carried, as were numerous new policies on topics like walkability, parking, housing above commercial space, and environmental protection. A motion to acknowledge the need for additional First Nations consultation before final OCP adoption was carried, while a proposed amendment to that motion was defeated. Council also approved a change in scope and budget increase for the Crofton Fire Hall project, and supported a regional grant application for a mobile emergency operations centre.

• Approved numerous amendments to the draft Official Community Plan, including new policies on walkability, parking, housing, and environmental protection
• Carried motion to acknowledge need for additional First Nations consultation before final OCP adoption
• Defeated amendment to First Nations consultation motion (5 opposed)
• Approved change in scope of Crofton Fire Hall project to 3,636 sq ft and increased budget from $3.5M to $4.8M
• Supported CVRD application for $125,000 grant for mobile emergency operations centre
• Approved $10,000 contribution to Circular Economy Accelerator Program
• Appointed five members to Board of Variance for three-year term
• Adopted Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3859 and Sewer and Water Parcel Tax Bylaw No. 3860

Council - Special

This is a special Council meeting with a single substantive item: a motion to close the meeting to the public to receive solicitor-client privileged advice under section 90(1)(i) of the Community Charter. The rest of the agenda is procedural (call to order, agenda approval, rise and report, adjournment). No decisions or discussions on policy or public matters are listed.

• Closed session under Community Charter section 90(1)(i) for solicitor-client privileged advice
• Agenda adoption with unanimous vote required for any late items
• Meeting held electronically from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. on March 8, 2022

The special council meeting on March 8, 2022, was called to order and the agenda adopted. Council then moved into a closed session to receive solicitor-client privileged advice, and rose without report. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Adopted the agenda as circulated (carried)
• Closed meeting to public for solicitor-client privilege (carried)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting electronically to continue the Official Community Plan (OCP) workshop, picking up from where it left off on February 15, 2022. The agenda also includes routine items: adopting the agenda, approving minutes from the February 8 and 15 meetings, and public input/question periods.

• Continue OCP workshop (Part 2), facilitated by Catherine Rockandel of Rockandel & Associates
• Adopt minutes from February 8 and February 15, 2022 meetings
• Public input limited to 5 speakers, 3 minutes each
• Question period for public questions on meeting business

The Committee of the Whole held a workshop to review chapters 7-11 of the draft Official Community Plan, facilitated by Rockandel & Associates. Council members agreed to submit suggested revisions by March 14, 2022, for consideration at the March 16 regular Council meeting. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and informational.

• Adopted agenda as circulated
• Adopted minutes from February 8 and 15, 2022 meetings
• Agreed to email suggested OCP revisions to Corporate Officer by March 14, 2022

Council - Regular

The Council is considering several infrastructure and utility matters, including a budget increase for the Crofton Fire Hall replacement. They are also reviewing development permits, climate adaptation strategies, and updates to water and sewer fees.

• Crofton Fire Hall Building Replacement Project budget increase from $3.5 million to $4.8 million
• Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3859, 2022 regarding utility fees
• Sewer and Water Parcel Tax Bylaw No. 3860, 2022
• Development permit for a mixed use building at 9744 Willow Street
• Crofton Sewage Treatment Plant Clarifier Project funding commitment of $935,000

Council approved a development permit for a mixed-use building at 9744 Willow Street, including a variance to reduce the loading zone height from 5 to 3 metres. They also gave first three readings to two bylaws (Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3859 and Sewer and Water Parcel Tax Bylaw No. 3860). A motion to expand the Crofton Fire Hall project and increase its budget was referred to staff for financial analysis. Council also authorized a grant application for the Crofton Sewage Treatment Plant Clarifier Project and abandoned the South End Waterworks District Amendment Bylaw.

• Approved development permit DPV00009 for 9744 Willow Street (mixed-use building) with loading zone height variance (carried)
• Gave first, second, and third reading to Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3859 and Sewer and Water Parcel Tax Bylaw No. 3860 (carried)
• Referred Crofton Fire Hall expansion (2,150 to 3,636 sq ft) and budget increase ($3.5M to $4.8M) to staff for financial analysis (carried, opposed by Manhas)
• Authorized grant application for Crofton Sewage Treatment Plant Clarifier Project with $935,000 municipal share (carried)
• Abandoned South End Waterworks District Amendment Bylaw No. 3861 (carried)
• Directed staff to prepare report on volunteer appreciation event (carried, opposed by Marsh)
• Directed Mayor to write letter supporting BC Wildfires Petition (carried, opposed by Manhas)

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting electronically to review the draft terms of reference for the Climate Action and Energy Plan Reserve Fund, discuss the 2022 workplan and meeting schedule, and consider a motion to allow future electronic meetings. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Review draft CAEP Reserve Fund Terms of Reference
• Review 2022 EAC workplan and meeting schedule
• Motion to authorize electronic meetings for 2022

The Environmental Advisory Committee reviewed and amended the Climate Action and Energy Plan (CAEP) Reserve Fund Terms of Reference, splitting funds 70% to corporate projects and 30% to community projects, and recommended Council adopt the updated terms. The Committee also approved its 2022 workplan with several changes, including adding two high-priority items and adjusting the meeting schedule. All recommendations were carried.

• Approved 70/30 fund split for CAEP Reserve Fund (carried)
• Recommended Council adopt updated CAEP Reserve Fund Terms of Reference (carried)
• Approved 2022 workplan with amendments (carried)
• Approved meeting schedule changes (carried)
• Approved electronic meetings for additional 2022 meetings (carried)

Council - Regular and Public Hearings

North Cowichan Council will consider adopting the Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw for 2022-2026 and a $1,458,750 aerial fire truck purchase. They will also hold public hearings on a zoning amendment for Kingsview and decide on a development variance permit for a Shore Pine Close property. Several routine items, including minutes and a letter of support for Cowichan Tribes, are on the consent agenda.

• Adoption of Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 3858, 2022 (2022-2026)
• Adoption of Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3857, 2022 (waste collection fee increase, fire inspection fee removal)
• Purchase of Aerial Fire Truck from Pierce Manufacturing for $1,458,750 plus tax
• Public hearing and third reading of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3825 (Kingsview CD18 Area 3 townhouse definition)
• Development Variance Permit DVP00072 at 12-1060 Shore Pine Close (side yard setback reduction to 1.66 metres)

Council held a public hearing on Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3825, which would have changed housing types in Area 3 of CD18, and then defeated the motion for third reading. The bylaw was not adopted. Council also adopted the Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 3858 and the Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3857, and approved the purchase of an aerial fire truck for $1,458,750 plus tax.

• Adopted Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 3858, 2022 (opposed by Manhas and Siebring).
• Adopted Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3857, 2022 (opposed by Siebring).
• Referred South End Waterworks District Amendment Bylaw No. 3861 back to staff for review in light of a letter from Cowichan Tribes.
• Authorized issuance of Development Variance Permit DVP00072 at 12-1060 Shore Pine Close.
• Approved purchase of an Aerial Fire Truck from Pierce Manufacturing for $1,458,750 plus tax.
• Defeated motion to direct staff to report on Bell McKinnon Plan and asset management costs.
• Supported City of Duncan as primary applicant for UBCM Poverty Reduction Funding.
• Defeated third reading of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3825 (opposed by Douglas, Justice, Marsh, Sawrie).

Committee of the Whole - Special

This is a special Committee of the Whole meeting focused on an Official Community Plan (OCP) workshop. Council will receive additional information on OCP feedback before the facilitated workshop begins. The meeting is held electronically and includes public input and question periods.

• Official Community Plan (OCP) workshop facilitated by Catherine Rockandel of Rockandel & Associates
• Discussion of OCP feedback and comparison of existing vs proposed Urban Containment Boundary (UCB) as shown in attachment map

The Committee of the Whole held a workshop on the draft Official Community Plan, reviewing it chapter by chapter and discussing public and agency feedback. Council did not make substantive decisions on the plan's content, but agreed to schedule a special meeting to continue the workshop. The meeting was extended and adjourned after completing the review of Chapter 6.

• Adopted the agenda as circulated
• Extended the meeting to 7:30 p.m.
• Extended the meeting to 8:00 p.m.
• Scheduled a special meeting to continue the Official Community Plan workshop

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is meeting electronically to receive information on two main items: a summary of Round 1 public engagement for the Municipal Forest Reserve Review, and a conclusion summary of 2021 FireSmart projects funded through the Community Resiliency Investment program. Both items are for information only, with presentations from consultants. The agenda also includes routine adoption of minutes and a delegation from the Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society.

• Municipal Forest Reserve Review Round 1 public engagement summary report and presentation
• 2021 CRI FireSmart Project Conclusion Summary, including fuel management prescriptions for Maple Mountain and Mount Richards
• Draft Wildfire Development Permit Area Map and Guidelines
• Delegation from Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society on 2021 efforts in S'amunu watershed
• Adoption of January 11, 2022 Committee of the Whole minutes

The Committee of the Whole received presentations on the Municipal Forest Reserve Review public engagement and the 2021 FireSmart projects, but took no substantive votes or decisions. The only actions were adopting the agenda and the January 11, 2022 minutes.

• Adopted the agenda as circulated
• Adopted the January 11, 2022 regular meeting minutes

Council - Regular

North Cowichan Council is meeting electronically on February 2, 2022, to consider several items including a development permit for a 66-unit apartment building on Skinner Road, adoption of a zoning bylaw for a second dwelling at 8921 Chemainus Road, and readings for the 2022-2026 Five Year Financial Plan. Council will also discuss a $500,000 donation for an accessible playground at Fuller Lake Park, a regional emergency preparedness grant application, and results from public consultation on the draft Official Community Plan. The meeting includes public input and question periods, and ends with a closed session for legal and negotiation matters.

• Development permit for 66-unit apartment building at Lot A, Skinner Road, with parking reduced from 109 to 86 stalls and height increased from 12m to 15m
• Adoption of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3852 to allow a second dwelling at 8921 Chemainus Road
• Second and third readings of Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3857 (waste fee increase, fire inspection fees removed)
• First three readings of Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 3858 (2022-2026)
• Proposed $500,000 grant from Anya's Journey Foundation for Fuller Lake Park accessible playground

Council approved a development permit for a 66-unit apartment building on Lot A, Skinner Road, granting variances to reduce parking from 109 to 86 stalls and increase building height from 12 to 15 metres. Council also adopted a zoning amendment for 8921 Chemainus Road, gave readings to the Fees and Charges and Five Year Financial Plan bylaws, and directed staff to amend the financial plan to include $500,000 in grant funding and $500,000 in capital for an accessible playground at Fuller Lake Park. Additionally, Council supported a regional grant application for emergency preparedness and accepted public input on the draft Official Community Plan, scheduling a workshop for February 15, 2022.

• Approved development permit for 66-unit apartment building on Skinner Road with parking and height variances (carried)
• Adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3852 for 8921 Chemainus Road (carried)
• Gave second and third readings to Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3857 (carried, opposed by Manhas, Siebring, Toporowski)
• Gave first, second, and third readings to Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 3858 (carried, opposed by Manhas, Siebring)
• Directed staff to amend financial plan to include $500,000 grant and $500,000 capital for Fuller Lake Park accessible playground (carried)
• Supported CVRD regional grant application for $115,000 for emergency preparedness generators (carried)
• Accepted OCP public input and directed staff to schedule OCP workshop for February 15, 2022 (carried, opposed by Manhas)
• Directed staff to coordinate Safer Community Plan review meeting with City of Duncan and authorized Mayor and Councillor Sawrie to attend (carried)

Board of Variance

The North Cowichan Board of Variance is meeting electronically to elect a chair, adopt the agenda and previous minutes, and consider one variance application. The main business is a request to allow a front yard fence at 6101 Lane Road to be 2 metres high instead of the 1.2 metres normally permitted under Zoning Bylaw No. 2950.

• Election of Shannon Roome as acting chair in Chair Bruneski's absence
• Adoption of December 16, 2021 minutes
• Variance application BOV00010 for 6101 Lane Road to increase front yard fence height from 1.2m to 2m

The Board of Variance approved application BOV00010, allowing a 2-metre-high front yard fence at 6101 Lane Road, exceeding the 1.2-metre limit in Zoning Bylaw No. 2950. The applicant had already erected the fence, citing privacy and safety concerns along Sherman Road. No written objections were received from adjacent property owners. The meeting also adopted the agenda and the minutes from December 16, 2021.

• Approved variance BOV00010 to increase front yard fence height from 1.2m to 2.0m at 6101 Lane Road (carried)
• Adopted the agenda as circulated (carried)
• Adopted the minutes of December 16, 2021 (carried)

Council - Regular and Public Hearings

North Cowichan Council is meeting to adopt several bylaws, approve grants-in-aid totaling $227,200 for 2022, and consider recommendations on climate action, off-leash beach access, and pre-budget facility projects. They will also receive updates on various items and hold public hearings.

• Adopt Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw No. 3854, 2021
• Adopt 2021-2025 Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 3855, 2021
• Adopt Fees and Charges Bylaw Amendment Bylaw 3856, 2021 (new fee for unlawful suite notes on title)
• Give readings to Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3857, 2022 (waste collection fee increase from $115 to $126, remove fire inspection fees)
• Approve pre-budget expenditures: Cemetery Services Plan $75,000, Fuller Lake Arena Dehumidifier Replacement $290,000, South End Fire Hall Roof Replacement $465,000

Council approved the 2022 grant-in-aid program totaling $227,200, including $25,000 for the BC Forest Discovery Centre and $34,000 for the Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce, while denying the Chemainus BIA's First Nations signage request. Four bylaws were adopted, including the Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw and the 2021-2025 Financial Plan Amendment. Council also approved pre-budget facility projects, adopted the Climate Action and Energy Plan Update, and decided not to make temporary off-leash beach areas permanent.

• Approved 2022 grant-in-aid amounts totaling $227,200 (consent)
• Denied Chemainus BIA First Nations signage grant request (consent)
• Adopted Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw No. 3854, 2021 (carried)
• Adopted 2021-2025 Financial Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 3855, 2021 (carried)
• Adopted Fees and Charges Bylaw Amendment No. 3856, 2021 (carried)
• Approved pre-budget facility projects: Cemetery Services Plan $75,000, Fuller Lake Arena De-humidifier $290,000, South End Fire Hall Roof $465,000 (carried)
• Adopted Climate Action and Energy Plan Update Report (opposed: Siebring)
• Deemed unwarranted to make temporary off-leash beach areas permanent (carried)

Environmental Advisory Committee

The Environmental Advisory Committee is meeting electronically to discuss potential amendments to the Climate Action and Energy Plan (CAEP) Reserve Fund Terms of Reference and to review the draft 2022 workplan. The agenda includes adopting the minutes from the December 14, 2021 meeting. No decisions are listed; items are for discussion.

• Discussion on amending CAEP Reserve Fund Terms of Reference
• Review of draft 2022 Environmental Advisory Committee Workplan
• Adoption of December 14, 2021 meeting minutes

The Environmental Advisory Committee discussed the Climate Action and Energy Plan (CAEP) Reserve Fund Terms of Reference and provided suggested updates for staff to incorporate into a draft for future workshop. They also reviewed the 2022 workplan, adding new items for prioritization. No formal decisions were made beyond adopting the agenda and minutes.

• Adopted agenda with late item on meeting times (carried)
• Adopted minutes of December 14, 2021 meeting (carried)
• Directed staff to incorporate EAC comments into draft CAEP Reserve Fund Terms of Reference update
• Scheduled a workshop on CAEP Reserve Fund Terms of Reference for a future meeting
• Directed staff to include additional items in 2022 workplan and report back for prioritization
• Agreed that Chair may call meetings at her discretion regarding monthly vs. bi-monthly schedule
• Staff asked to schedule an EAC workshop at end of February

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review and make recommendations on 2022 grant-in-aid applications, proposed utility rate increases for 2022-2026, new versus replacement capital projects, and the method for reviewing council compensation. The meeting is open to the public and includes public input and question periods.

• 2022 Grants in Aid: recommend amounts for BC Forest Discovery Centre ($25,000), Chemainus Chamber ($27,500), Duncan Cowichan Chamber ($34,000), Cowichan Neighbourhood House ($30,000), Chemainus Theatre ($20,000), and others
• Utility rate review: propose 5% annual increases for Chemainus and Crofton water, 3% for South End water, and sewer increases of 2-3% per year for five years
• Council compensation review: recommend deferring review to 2025 and using a comparator group of at least 10 municipalities
• New versus replacement 2022 capital projects: staff presentation to differentiate new works from replacements
• AVICC resolutions and nominations: discuss submitting a resolution or nomination for the 2022 AGM

The Committee of the Whole recommended Council approve $227,200 in 2022 grants-in-aid, including $25,000 for the BC Forest Discovery Centre and $34,000 for the Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce, but denied the Chemainus BIA's request for First Nations signage funding. It also directed staff to prepare utility rate increases for 2022, including 5% water rate hikes for Chemainus and Crofton and 3% for the South End. A motion to remove the Babine Road project from the Crofton Sewer budget was defeated, and a motion to defer the council compensation review to 2025 was also defeated.

• Denied Chemainus BIA First Nations signage grant (carried)
• Approved $3,500 for Chemainus BIA beautification and $4,500 for flags/banners (carried, opposed: Siebring)
• Approved $227,200 total grants-in-aid for 2022 (carried)
• Directed staff to prepare 2022 utility rate increases: 5% water for Chemainus/Crofton, 3% for South End (carried)
• Defeated motion to remove Babine Road project from Crofton Sewer budget (opposed: Manhas, Sawrie, Siebring)
• Directed staff to prepare sewer rate increases: 0% Chemainus, 3% Crofton/South End/Maple Bay (carried)
• Defeated motion to defer council compensation review to 2025 (opposed: Justice, Marsh, Sawrie, Siebring)
• Directed staff to issue RFQ for compensation consultant in 2022 (carried, opposed: Douglas, Manhas)