Regional District of East Kootenay public meetings in 2024

RDEK Board of Directors

The Regional District of East Kootenay Board will adopt a five-year financial plan amendment and a water distribution system fee bylaw. The meeting also includes zoning and official community plan amendments, funding requests, and public hearings.

• Bylaw No. 3347: 2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan Amendment
• Bylaw No. 3364: Holland Creek Water Distribution System Fee Amendment
• Bylaw No. 3346: Columbia Valley Zoning Amendment (Fairmont Hot Springs)
• Bylaw No. 3348: Columbia Valley Zoning Amendment (Windermere South)
• Bylaw No. 3245: Wasa Official Community Plan Amendment

The RDEK Board awarded the Columbia Valley Landfill Closure Phase 1 contract to Mackay Contracting Ltd. for $1,185,229 and adopted the 2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan amendment (Bylaw No. 3347). Several grants were approved, denied, or referred to the financial planning process, including a $15,000 request from Kootenay Employment Services that was initially denied but later referred to the 2025-2029 Financial Plan process. The board also introduced multiple zoning and official community plan amendments, granted several development variance permits, and refused a temporary use permit for a property in Wasa.

• Awarded Columbia Valley Landfill Closure Phase 1 to Mackay Contracting Ltd. ($1,185,229)
• Adopted Bylaw No. 3347 (2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan amendment)
• Denied $15,000 grant to Kootenay Employment Services, then referred to 2025-2029 Financial Plan process
• Denied $45,000 grant to East Kootenay Division of Family Practice for physician recruitment
• Approved $6,000 grant to Moyie Volunteer Fire Department Society
• Denied grant to Cranbrook Radio Club Society
• Refused Temporary Use Permit No. 9-24 (Wasa / Paul)
• Adopted Fabric and Canvas Structures Policy

Governance and Regional Services Committee

The Governance and Regional Services Committee will discuss funding requests for employment services and physician recruitment. The body will also introduce an amendment to the 2024-2028 Five Year Financial Plan and discuss the Board Code of Conduct.

• Bylaw No. 3347 - 2024–2028 Five Year Financial Plan Amendment No. 1
• Funding request from Kootenay Employment Services
• Funding request from East Kootenay Division of Family Practice for physician recruitment
• Discussion on RDEK Board Code of Conduct
• Review of November 2024 Cheque Register

The Governance & Regional Services Committee defeated a $15,000 grant request from Kootenay Employment Services for a childcare project, but the Board later referred it to the 2025-2029 financial plan. A $45,000 grant request from the East Kootenay Division of Family Practice for physician recruitment was also defeated and later denied by the Board. The committee approved a letter of support for Kootenay Employment Services, reimbursed Director Doehle for travel expenses, approved the November 2024 cheque register, and introduced the 2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan amendment bylaw.

• Defeated $15,000 grant request for Kootenay Employment Services childcare project (11 opposed)
• Approved letter of support for Kootenay Employment Services REDIP application
• Defeated $45,000 grant request for East Kootenay Division of Family Practice physician recruitment (13 opposed)
• Approved reimbursement for Director Doehle's travel expenses to Columbia River Treaty Symposium
• Approved November 2024 cheque register of $3,666,649.46
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3347 (2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan amendment)

Planning and Development Services Committee

The Planning and Development Services Committee will review several new business items, including a proposed amendment to Bylaw No. 3349. It will also hear applications for Agricultural Land Reserve subdivisions at Windermere South (Denby) and Windermere East (Elkhorn Ranch). Additional items include development variance permits, temporary use permits, and a road‑closure request for Baltac Road.

• Bylaw No. 3349 amendment (Jim Smith / Leopold)
• ALR Subdivision – Windermere South (Denby)
• Development Variance Permit No. 24‑24 – Columere Park (Laub)
• Temporary Use Permit No. 9‑24 – Wasa (Paul)
• MOTI road closure request for Baltac Road (Percival)

The Planning & Development Services Committee introduced two bylaws, supported two ALR subdivisions, granted three development variance permits and one temporary use permit, and recommended refusal of a road closure. A temporary use permit for RVs in Wasa was postponed, but the RDEK Board later refused it.

• Introduced Bylaw No. 3349 (Jim Smith/Leopold) with restrictive covenant (carried)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3356 and 3357 (Fernie Alpine Resort) (carried)
• Supported ALR subdivision at 4809 The Dell Road (Denby) (carried)
• Supported ALR subdivision on Kootenay #3 Road (Elkhorn Ranch) (carried)
• Granted DVP No. 24-24 (Columere Park/Laub) (carried)
• Granted DVP No. 26-24 (Moyie/Teck) and No. 28-24 (Edgewater/Smith) (carried)
• Postponed TUP No. 9-24 (Wasa/Paul) — later refused by board (carried, opposed by Wilks)
• Granted TUP No. 10-24 (Meadowbrook/Shostak) (carried)

Electoral Area Services Committee

The Electoral Area Services Committee will meet to adopt meeting minutes, review engineering reports, and consider approving attendance for upcoming economic summits. The agenda includes a public hearing on a water system fee amendment and a policy regarding fabric and canvas structures.

• Holland Creek Water Distribution System Fee Amendment (Bylaw No. 3364)
• Fabric and Canvas Structures Policy
• Regional District Cooperative Community Wildfire Response Organizations
• Discretionary Grants-in-Aid for December 2024
• Engineering and Utilities Report to Board

The Electoral Area Services Committee approved several routine items, including a Fabric and Canvas Structures Policy, a $6,000 grant to the Moyie Volunteer Fire Department, and attendance for directors at three conferences. A grant to the Cranbrook Radio Club Society was denied, and the committee decided not to administer the Cooperative Wildfire Response program. Bylaw No. 3364 was introduced for a water system fee amendment.

• Approved Director Schnider's attendance at 2025 BC Economic Summit (carried)
• Approved Director Schnider's attendance at BC Council of Forest Industries Convention (carried)
• Approved Electoral Area Directors' attendance at UBCM Forum (carried)
• Adopted Fabric and Canvas Structures Policy (carried)
• Approved $6,000 grant to Moyie Volunteer Fire Department Society (carried)
• Denied grant to Cranbrook Radio Club Society (carried)
• Decided not to administer Cooperative Wildfire Response program (carried)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3364 (Holland Creek Water amendment) (carried)

Columbia Valley Services Committee

The Columbia Valley Services Committee will meet on Dec 12, 2024 for its regular business. After routine items such as call to order and adoption of the agenda and minutes, the committee will discuss a funding request from the District of Invermere for the Columbia Valley Centre. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• District of Invermere – Columbia Valley Centre Funding Request (see attached PDF)

The committee held a closed session to discuss the Columbia Valley Landfill Contract under Section 90(1)(j) of the Community Charter, then reconvened. No decisions were made on the landfill contract. The committee referred a $150,000 funding request from the District of Invermere for the Columbia Valley Centre to the 2025-2029 Financial Plan process.

• Adopted the agenda (carried)
• Adjourned to closed session to discuss Columbia Valley Landfill Contract (carried)
• Adopted October 10, 2024 meeting minutes (carried)
• Referred District of Invermere's $150,000 Columbia Valley Centre funding request to 2025-2029 Financial Plan process (carried)

RDEK Board of Directors

The RDEK Board will elect a Chair and Vice Chair, hear an update on the Crown Mountain Coking Coal Project, and consider several committee recommendations including a landfill contract and fire‑safety appointments. A major agenda item is the third reading of Bylaw No. 3342, which amends the Moyie & Area Official Community Plan involving Teck Metals Ltd. The meeting also includes multiple zoning and development bylaws for review and possible adoption.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair (Bylaw Excerpt)
• Crown Mountain Coking Coal Project update (NWP Coal Canada Ltd.)
• Central Subregion Landfill Operations Contract recommendation
• Appointment of Fire Investigators and Inspectors per the Fire Safety Act
• Third reading of Bylaw No. 3342 – Moyie & Area OCP amendment (Teck Metals Ltd.)

The RDEK Board awarded the Central Landfill operations contract for 2024-2029 to GFL Environmental Inc. and approved a $308,141.70 grant application for fire department equipment. Several bylaws were introduced or advanced, including zoning amendments for Lyttle Lake, Fairmont Hot Springs, and Windermere South, with public hearings scheduled. The board also filed notices on title for two properties for bylaw contraventions and approved various appointments and grants.

• Awarded Central Landfill operations contract to GFL Environmental Inc. (2024-2029)
• Approved $308,141.70 grant application to UBCM for fire department equipment
• Approved discretionary grants: Elko Parks and Rec ($1,800), Cranbrook Seniors ($1,500), Wardner Community ($1,545)
• Reallocated $44,400 for Holland Creek Sewer pump purchase
• Filed Notices on Title for properties at 7800 Bull River F.S.R. and Highway 93, Grasmere
• Appointed Andy Prefontaine to East Side Lake Windermere Water UAC; removed David Smith
• Granted Temporary Use Permit No. 8-24 (Fairmont) with conditions (opposed: Gay, Walter, Wilks)
• Introduced and gave first/second reading to Bylaws 3317, 3318, 3346, 3348; scheduled public hearings

Governance and Regional Services Committee

The Governance and Regional Services Committee will adopt the agenda and minutes, receive environmental and protective services reports, and review the October 2024 cheque register and September 30 2024 quarterly financial statements. A key item of new business is the discussion and possible approval of Amendment No. 6 to the E911 Emergency Services Communication Agreement with the Regional District of Central Okanagan. The committee will also discuss potential changes to the Union of BC Municipalities' Responsible Conduct Framework.

• E911 Emergency Services Communication Agreement – Amendment No. 6 (with RDCO and Central Okanagan)
• Cheque Register – October 2024
• Quarterly Financial Statements – September 30 2024 (Q3 2024)
• Union of BC Municipalities – Potential changes to the Responsible Conduct Framework (discussion)
• Adoption of agenda and minutes

The Governance and Regional Services Committee approved several routine items, including an amendment to the 911 emergency services agreement with the Regional District of Central Okanagan, the October 2024 cheque register, and the quarterly financial statements. The committee also supported sending a letter to UBCM advocating for mandatory codes of conduct for local governments. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Approved signing of 911 service agreement Amendment No. 6 with Regional District of Central Okanagan (carried)
• Approved October 2024 cheque register for $5,346,443.01 (carried)
• Accepted financial statements for January–September 2024 (carried)
• Approved letter to UBCM supporting legislation for mandatory codes of conduct (carried)

Central Services Committee

The Central Services Committee will open the meeting, adopt the agenda and the minutes from the May 9, 2024 meeting, and address standard items such as correspondence, invited presentations, unfinished business, new business, bylaws, and director reports. No specific policy decisions or contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Adopt the agenda
• Adopt minutes from the May 9, 2024 meeting
• Consider invited presentations and delegations
• Discuss unfinished business
• Review reports from directors

The Central Services Committee meeting on November 7, 2024, was largely procedural. The committee adopted the agenda and the minutes from the May 9, 2024 meeting. The committee then adjourned to a closed session to discuss the Central Subregion Landfill Contract, citing confidentiality provisions under the Community Charter and FOI Act. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Adopted the agenda (carried)
• Adopted the May 9, 2024 meeting minutes (carried)
• Adjourned to closed session to discuss Central Subregion Landfill Contract (carried)

Electoral Area Services Committee

The Electoral Area Services Committee will meet to discuss and decide on fire safety roles, emergency preparedness funding, and community grants. Items include appointing fire investigators under the Fire Safety Act, applying for a $10,000 training and equipment grant, and allocating discretionary aid to local groups.

• Appointing fire investigators and inspectors per Fire Safety Act requirements
• Community Emergency Preparedness Fund grant application for volunteer fire department equipment and training ($10,000)
• Discretionary grants-in-aid for Elko Parks and Recreation Association, Senior Citizens' Association of Cranbrook, and Wardner Community Association
• Kimberley Rural Fire Protection Service assent vote results
• Holland Creek Sewer budget reallocation for pump replacement

The committee designated all RDEK fire chiefs and officers as fire investigators/inspectors, approved a $308,141.70 grant application for fire equipment, and allocated $44,400 for a new sewer pump. Three discretionary grants were approved, and the Kimberley Rural Fire Protection Service will not proceed due to lack of elector approval.

• Designated all RDEK fire chiefs and officers as fire investigators/inspectors (carried)
• Approved $308,141.70 grant application to UBCM for fire equipment (carried)
• Approved $1,800 grant to Elko Parks and Recreation Association (carried)
• Approved $1,500 grant to Senior Citizens' Association of Cranbrook (carried)
• Approved $1,545 grant to Wardner Community Association (carried)
• Reallocated $44,400 from generator to pump for Holland Creek Sewer system (carried)
• Authorized attendance at Cultivating Civility Masterclass for two directors (carried)

Elk Valley Services Committee

The Elk Valley Services Committee will meet to adopt the agenda and minutes from the September 5, 2024 meeting. The primary item is the consideration of establishing the Elk Valley Economic Development Service, with follow-up documents provided.

• Adoption of September 5, 2024 meeting minutes
• Elk Valley Economic Development Service Establishment Consideration
• Correspondence review
• Reports from Directors
• Bylaws consideration

The Elk Valley Services Committee voted to postpone consideration of establishing an Elk Valley Economic Development Service until 2025. The committee also adopted the agenda and the minutes from the September 5, 2024 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Postponed Elk Valley Economic Development Service establishment consideration to 2025
• Adopted the meeting agenda
• Adopted the September 5, 2024 meeting minutes

Planning and Development Services Committee

The Planning and Development Services Committee will review three bylaw amendment packages covering Lyttle Lake/Vertz, Fairmont Hot Springs, and Windermere South. It will also consider an Agricultural Land Reserve subdivision request for the Wilmer/Peterson area and a Development Variance Permit for Columere Park. Additional items include a Temporary Use Permit for Fairmont and an interim update on regional housing needs.

• Bylaw No. 3317 & 3318 amendment (Lyttle Lake / Vertz)
• Bylaw No. 3346 amendment (Fairmont Hot Springs / Fairmont Hot Springs Resort Ltd.)
• Bylaw No. 3348 amendment (Windermere South / Egan)
• ALR Subdivision application – Wilmer / Peterson
• Development Variance Permit No. 27-24 – Columere Park

The committee granted a 20-month Temporary Use Permit extension for a Fairmont property, introduced four zoning/OCP amendment bylaws, supported an ALR subdivision application, and authorized an Accessory Dwelling Unit review. A Development Variance Permit for a deck addition was also granted.

• Granted TUP No. 8-24 for 20 months with conditions (4 opposed)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3317 (OCP amendment, Lyttle Lake/Vertz)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3318 (Zoning amendment, Lyttle Lake/Vertz)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3346 (Zoning amendment, Fairmont Hot Springs)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3348 (Zoning amendment, Windermere South/Egan)
• Supported Peterson ALR subdivision application on Donovan Road, Wilmer
• Granted DVP No. 27-24 (Columere Park/Kirkpatrick) for deck addition
• Authorized Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations project review

RDEK Board of Directors

The Board of Directors will review a funding request from STARS Critical Care Anywhere and discuss several regional park and zoning amendments. The meeting includes a public hearing regarding Official Community Plan and zoning amendments for Teck Metals Ltd. in Moyie.

• Funding request from STARS - Critical Care Anywhere
• Bylaw No. 3350: East Side Lake Windermere Water System Service expansion
• Regional Parks Plan Amendments No. 19 (Silver Spring) and No. 20 (Moyie Lake) for public access
• Bylaws No. 3342 and 3343: Official Community Plan and Zoning amendments for Teck Metals Ltd. in Moyie
• Budget amendment for Short-Term Rental Enforcement Services

The RDEK Board of Directors approved a $71,000 budget increase for short-term rental compliance services and amended the 2024–2028 Financial Plan. The Board also authorized a five-year, $588,212 contract extension for Columbia Valley landfill scale operations and initiated plans to phase out the Yellow Bin Recycling Program in 2025. Additionally, the Board approved several land-use bylaws, temporary use permits, and a telecommunications tower proposal in Elkford.

• Approved $71,000 budget increase for short-term rental enforcement
• Extended Columbia Valley landfill scale contract for $588,212
• Directed staff to phase out Yellow Bin Recycling Program in 2025
• Approved three short-term rental temporary use permits
• Adopted Rockyview OCP and Zoning amendments for Cranbrook West
• Authorized $500,000 grant application for Fernie trail construction
• Designated two new regional parks at Silver Spring and Moyie Lake
• Approved September 2024 cheque register of $3,143,550.32

Governance and Regional Services Committee

The Governance and Regional Services Committee will review reports on environmental and protective services, approve minutes from the September 5 meeting, and discuss the continuation of the Yellow Bin recycling program and the optimization of the rural transfer station network.

• Adoption of September 5, 2024 meeting minutes
• Yellow Bin Recycling Program Continuation
• Rural Transfer Station Network Optimization and Options
• Environmental Services Report
• Protective Services Report

The Governance and Regional Services Committee directed staff to prepare a plan to phase out the Yellow Bin Recycling Program in 2025, with Director Wilks opposed. It also directed staff to prepare a plan for an optimized rural transfer station network, including potential closures of low-volume sites. The committee approved the September 2024 cheque register for $3,143,550.32 and adopted the agenda and previous minutes. The meeting then adjourned to a closed session to discuss the Yellow Bin Program contract.

• Approved September 2024 cheque register for $3,143,550.32
• Directed staff to prepare plan to phase out Yellow Bin Recycling Program in 2025 (opposed: Director Wilks)
• Directed staff to prepare plan for optimized transfer station network, including potential closures
• Adopted agenda and minutes of September 5, 2024 meeting
• Adjourned to closed session to discuss Yellow Bin Program contract

Columbia Valley Services Committee

The Columbia Valley Services Committee is meeting to conduct routine business and review a letter of support for Columbia Valley Search and Rescue. The agenda consists primarily of procedural items.

• Columbia Valley Search and Rescue - Letter of Support

The Columbia Valley Services Committee approved sending a letter to BC Search and Rescue expressing concern about decreased funding for the Columbia Valley Search and Rescue. The committee also adopted the agenda and the September 5, 2024 minutes, then adjourned to a closed meeting to discuss a scale operations contract and third-party agreement. No other substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Approved letter to BC Search and Rescue expressing concern over decreased funding for Columbia Valley Search and Rescue (carried)
• Adopted the meeting agenda (carried)
• Adopted the September 5, 2024 meeting minutes (carried)
• Adjourned to closed meeting to discuss Columbia Valley Scale Operations Contract and Third Party Agreement (carried)

Electoral Area Services Committee

The Electoral Area Services Committee will review several new business items, including two Regional Parks Plan Amendments for public access at Silver Spring and Moyie Lake, a grant application for the Fernie Valley Trail development, and discretionary Grants‑in‑Aid for the Canadian Mental Health Association and the Windermere Valley Youth Centre. It will also consider a budget amendment to fund short‑term rental enforcement services and discuss the Community Works Fund policy. A bylaw amendment (Bylaw No. 3350) related to the East Side Lake Windermere water system service will be introduced. Procedural items such as adoption of the agenda, minutes, and reports will also be addressed.

• Regional Parks Plan Amendment No. 19 – Silver Spring Public Access
• Regional Parks Plan Amendment No. 20 – Moyie Lake Public Access
• Fernie Valley Trail Development – grant application
• Discretionary Grants‑in‑Aid – October 2024 (Canadian Mental Health Association for the Kootenays; Windermere Valley Youth Centre)
• Budget Amendment – Short‑Term Rental Enforcement Services

The Electoral Area Services Committee approved a $71,000 budget increase for short-term rental compliance services and designated two new public access parks. They also authorized a grant application for a Fernie Valley trail and introduced a bylaw amendment for the East Side Lake Windermere water system. The meeting adjourned to closed session to discuss potential litigation.

• Approved $71,000 budget increase for short-term rental compliance services
• Designated Silver Spring Public Access as Electoral Area B Park
• Authorized agreement with Cardinal Meadows LLC for Silver Spring Park operations
• Designated Moyie Lake Public Access as Electoral Area C Park
• Approved application for $500,000 BC Active Transportation grant for Fernie Valley Trail
• Approved discretionary grants totaling $8,000 for mental health and youth programs
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3350 for East Side Lake Windermere Water System
• Adjourned to closed session for litigation matters

Planning and Development Services Committee

The Planning and Development Services Committee will review invited presentations and then discuss several applications. Items include proposed amendments to Bylaw No. 3342 and Bylaw No. 3343 for Moyie and Teck Metals Ltd., a development variance permit (DVP No. 19-24) for Windermere South, several temporary use permits, and a request for a letter of concurrence for a communications site in Elkford. The committee will vote on any motions related to these items before adjourning.

• Bylaw No. 3342 & Bylaw No. 3343 (Moyie / Teck Metals Ltd.)
• DVP No. 19-24 (Windermere South / Blakley & Perrin)
• TUP No. 7-24 (Rushmere / Fischer)
• STR TUP No. 106-24 (Panorama / Hearthstone Vacations Inc.)
• Request for Letter of Concurrence for a proposed Communications Site (Elkford / Rogers Communications Inc.)

The Planning & Development Services Committee approved three short-term rental temporary use permits, each capped at 10 guests with specific parking requirements. The committee also advanced two bylaws related to a Moyie cemetery land encroachment and granted a development variance permit for a home-based business in Windermere South. Additionally, the committee issued a letter of concurrence for a new Rogers Communications telecommunications tower in Elkford.

• Introduced Bylaw No. 3342 regarding Moyie cemetery encroachment
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3343 regarding Moyie cemetery encroachment
• Granted Development Variance Permit No. 19-24 (Windermere South)
• Granted Temporary Use Permit No. 7-24 (Rushmere)
• Granted Short Term Rental TUP No. 105-24 (10 guest max)
• Granted Short Term Rental TUP No. 106-24 (10 guest max)
• Granted Short Term Rental TUP No. 121-24 (10 guest max)
• Approved letter of concurrence for Elkford telecommunications tower

RDEK Board of Directors

The Regional District of East Kootenay Board will consider several bylaw adoptions, including Bylaw No. 3344 Permissive Taxation Exemption, Bylaw No. 3266 Lazy Lake Water Level Control Service Establishment, and two planning bylaws for Lake Windermere and Columbia Valley. The board will also review funding requests such as the Lake Windermere Whiteway request and the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena dehumidifier replacement. Committee recommendations on film permits, transit service reallocation, and discretionary grants will be presented for discussion.

• Adopt Bylaw No. 3344 Permissive Taxation Exemption (requires 2/3 vote)
• Adopt Bylaw No. 3266 Lazy Lake Water Level Control Service Establishment (requires 2/3 vote)
• Adopt Bylaw No. 3322 Lake Windermere Official Community Plan amendment
• Adopt Bylaw No. 3323 Columbia Valley Zoning amendment
• Consider Lake Windermere Whiteway funding request

The RDEK Board approved two fire engine contracts (Baynes Lake up to $741,000, Hosmer up to $790,000) with Fort Garry Fire Trucks, adopted several bylaws including the Lazy Lake Water Level Control Service Establishment and Permissive Taxation Exemption, and amended the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permit Policy. The board also approved grants, reallocated $80,000 from the Growing Communities Fund, and supported multiple ALR applications.

• Awarded Baynes Lake fire engine contract to Fort Garry Fire Trucks, not to exceed $741,000
• Awarded Hosmer fire engine contract to Fort Garry Fire Trucks, not to exceed $790,000
• Adopted Bylaw No. 3266 (Lazy Lake Water Level Control Service Establishment)
• Adopted Bylaw No. 3344 (Permissive Taxation Exemption)
• Amended Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permit Policy (10 people per parcel max, increased fees)
• Re-allocated $80,000 from Growing Communities Fund (Aquifer Study to Utility Masterplans)
• Approved Discretionary Grants-in-Aid (Cranbrook Public Library $3,700; Kimberley Curling Club $500)
• Extended Elk Valley Refuse Hauling Contract for two years

Columbia Valley Services Committee

The Columbia Valley Services Committee is meeting to discuss several regional service proposals and funding requests. The body will consider a new film permit process and the reallocation of transit service hours.

• Columbia Valley Film Permit Process Proposal
• Lake Windermere Whiteway funding request
• Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena dehumidifier replacement grant application
• Columbia Valley Transit Service reallocation of on-request service hours
• Presentation from Columbia Valley Search and Rescue

The Columbia Valley Services Committee approved staff work with the Columbia Valley Community Economic Development Committee to streamline the film permit application process. It referred the Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club's request for $60,000 annual funding for the Lake Windermere Whiteway to the 2025-2029 Financial Plan process. The committee also approved submitting a grant application for a dehumidifier replacement at the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena and directed staff to work with BC Transit on reallocating On-Request service hours for the Columbia Valley Transit system.

• Approved staff work with Columbia Valley Community Economic Development Committee to streamline film permit process (carried)
• Referred Toby Creek Nordic Ski Club's $60,000 annual funding request for Lake Windermere Whiteway to 2025-2029 Financial Plan process (carried)
• Approved application to Green and Inclusive Community Building Programs for dehumidifier replacement at Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena (carried)
• Approved staff work with BC Transit to reallocate On-Request service hours for Columbia Valley Transit system (carried)

Planning and Development Services Committee

The Planning and Development Services Committee will review several Agricultural Land Reserve subdivision and non‑farm use applications, a development variance permit, and ministry referrals for Crown land licences. It will also hear presentations on short‑term‑rental temporary use permits and consider amendments to the related policy and Bylaw No. 3345. Decisions will be made on these items during the September 5 meeting.

• ALR subdivision applications for Baynes Lake/Palmer and Bull River/Peasley
• ALR non‑farm and non‑adhering residential use applications at Gold Creek (City of Cranbrook and Daigle)
• Development Variance Permit No. 22‑24 (Wardner/Gauthier)
• Ministry referrals for Crown land licences of occupation (McDonald in Area B; Gold Creek Watershed in Area C) and a Crown land lease for community institutional use
• Short‑term‑rental temporary use permit policy and Bylaw No. 3345 amendments

The committee approved amendments to the Short-Term Rental Temporary Use Permit Policy, setting a maximum of 10 people per property, keeping parking requirements unchanged, and increasing application fees. It also introduced Bylaw No. 3345 to implement the fee changes. The committee supported several ALR subdivision and non-farm use applications, granted a development variance permit, and supported Crown land applications, while defeating a motion to postpone the STR policy changes.

• Amended STR policy: 10 people/property max, no parking changes, fees increased (delegated $2,000, non-delegated $4,000, reconsideration $2,000) (5 opposed)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3345 to set STR application fees (2 opposed)
• Supported ALR subdivision at 510 Chief David Road, Baynes Lake (carried)
• Supported ALR subdivision on Wardner-Fort Steele Road, Bull River (carried)
• Supported ALR non-farm use at 4250 Gold Creek Road (carried)
• Supported ALR non-adhering residential use at 5201 38th Ave S, Gold Creek (carried)
• Granted Development Variance Permit No. 22-24 (Wardner/Gauthier) (carried)
• Supported Crown land licence of occupation for McDonald at 5510 Edwards Lake Road (2 opposed)

Governance and Regional Services Committee

The Governance & Regional Services Committee will review several new business items, including the Retrofit Assist Program budget, attendance at the Interior Lumber Manufacturers' Association convention, and the Columbia River Salmon Reintroduction initiative. It will also consider a proposed Bylaw No. 3344 that would create a permissive taxation exemption, which requires a two‑thirds vote to pass. Additional items include a cheque register for August 2024 and an update on priority projects for 2024.

• Retrofit Assist Program – budget details
• Interior Lumber Manufacturers' Association Convention – attendance approval
• Columbia River Salmon Reintroduction – letter of support request
• Bylaw No. 3344 – permissive taxation exemption introduction
• Cheque Register – August 2024

The Governance and Regional Services Committee approved $90,000 from the Local Government Climate Action Plan reserve fund to design and deliver the Building Energy Retrofit Program for one year, with an option to extend for a second year upon receipt of impact reporting. The committee also authorized Chair Rob Gay to attend the Interior Lumber Manufacturers' Association Convention, approved letters of support for salmon reintroduction and forestry initiatives, and approved the August 2024 cheque register. The 2024-2025 Priority Projects list was approved with amendments, including moving the Wasa Lions Trail project to 'Projects Not Yet Started'.

• Approved $90,000 for Building Energy Retrofit Program (carried)
• Authorized Chair Rob Gay to attend ILMA Convention Sept 23-24, 2024 (carried)
• Approved letter of support for Columbia River Salmon Reintroduction (carried)
• Approved letter of support for Forestry Works for BC Initiative (carried)
• Approved August 2024 cheque register of $4,870,264.41 (carried)
• Approved 2024-2025 Priority Projects list with amendments (carried)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3344 (Permissive Taxation Exemption) (carried)

Elk Valley Services Committee

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. No specific business items, contracts, or ordinances are listed for decision or discussion.

• Adoption of August 8, 2024 meeting minutes

The Elk Valley Services Committee met on September 5, 2024, and adopted the agenda and the minutes from the August 8, 2024 meeting. The committee then adjourned to a closed meeting to discuss the Elk Valley Refuse Hauling Contract, citing privacy provisions under Section 90(1)(j) of the Community Charter. No substantive decisions were made in the open portion of the meeting.

• Adopted the meeting agenda (carried)
• Adopted the August 8, 2024 meeting minutes (carried)
• Adjourned to closed meeting to discuss Elk Valley Refuse Hauling Contract (carried)

Electoral Area Services Committee

The Electoral Area Services Committee will discuss and vote on a renewal of the Building and Plumbing Inspection Services Agreement with Akisq’nuk, consider discretionary Grants‑in‑Aid for September 2024, review the Community Works Fund Agreement Guidelines, evaluate a re‑allocation of the Growing Communities Fund, and consider a request from the City of Cranbrook for financial support for recreation services. The meeting also includes a bylaw amendment for the Lazy Lake Water Level Control Service.

• Renewal of Building and Plumbing Inspection Services Agreement – Akisq’nuk
• Discretionary Grants‑in‑Aid – September 2024 (Cranbrook Public Library, Kimberley Curling Club)
• 2024‑2034 Community Works Fund Agreement Guidelines – Additional Information
• Growing Communities Fund Re‑Allocation (including Ministry of Municipal Affairs letter on aquifer studies)
• Bylaw No. 3266 – Lazy Lake Water Level Control Service Establishment Amendment

The Electoral Area Services Committee approved discretionary grants for the Cranbrook Public Library and Kimberley Curling Club, authorized attendance at an economic summit, renewed a building inspection agreement with ʔAkisq̓nuk First Nation, re-allocated $80,000 from the Aquifer Study to Utility Masterplans, and agreed to meet with Cranbrook about recreation funding. A bylaw amendment for Lazy Lake water level control was introduced. The meeting then adjourned to closed session.

• Approved $3,700 grant to Cranbrook Public Library for accessible equipment
• Approved $500 grant to Kimberley Curling Club for community fall fair
• Authorized directors to attend Cranbrook Chamber economic summit Oct 2, 2024
• Authorized signing building/plumbing inspection agreement with ʔAkisq̓nuk First Nation (2024-2027)
• Re-allocated $80,000 from Aquifer Study to Utility Masterplans
• Agreed to meet with City of Cranbrook on recreation financial support
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3266 (Lazy Lake water level control amendment)

RDEK Board of Directors

The RDEK Board will consider and adopt several bylaws, including a Noise Control Regulation amendment and zoning amendments for Windermere South/Fillatre & Gionette and Fort Steele/Rodgers. It will also review discretionary Grants‑in‑Aid for August 2024 and a contract award for the Fernie Valley Pathway design. Additional items include appointments and allocation of climate‑action program funds.

• Bylaw No. 3336 – Noise Control Regulation amendment (three readings and adoption)
• Bylaw No. 3333 – Columbia Valley Zoning amendment for Windermere South/Fillatre & Gionette (three readings and adoption)
• Bylaw No. 3340 – Steeples Zoning & Floodplain Management amendment for Fort Steele/Rodgers (three readings and adoption)
• Discretionary Grants‑in‑Aid – August 2024 for Columbia Valley Boating Association, Search and Rescue, Community Theatre Society, Sparwood Secondary School
• Contract award and funding for Fernie Valley Pathway design

The RDEK Board adopted Bylaw No. 3336 amending the Noise Control Regulation, awarded a one-year contract for Columbia Valley Economic Development Services to the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce, and approved several grants-in-aid. A motion to allocate $180,000 from the Local Government Climate Action Plan reserve fund for a Building Energy Retrofit Program was defeated. The board also approved the 2025 meeting schedule and appointed BDO Canada LLP as auditors for five years.

• Adopted Bylaw No. 3336 (Noise Control Regulation amendment)
• Awarded Columbia Valley Economic Development Services contract to Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce (1-year term, renewable up to 4 more years)
• Approved $9,700 in Discretionary Grants-in-Aid to five organizations
• Defeated motion to allocate $180,000 for Building Energy Retrofit Program (11 opposed)
• Approved 2025 Board meeting schedule (12 dates)
• Appointed BDO Canada LLP as auditors for 5 years (2024-2028)
• Approved $10,000 grant to Cranbrook Mayor's Task Force on Homelessness for Temporary Outdoor Living Space
• Refused three Short Term Rental Temporary Use Permits at Fernie Alpine Resort

Elk Valley Services Committee

The Elk Valley Services Committee will meet to discuss the establishment of a new regional economic development service and review previous meeting minutes.

• Review of February 7, 2024 meeting minutes
• Discussion on Elk Valley Economic Development Service establishment
• Consideration of draft business bylaw for the new service

The Elk Valley Services Committee voted to forward a July 2024 CAO report to the councils of Fernie, Sparwood, and Elkford, and to the Electoral Area A Director, to confirm continued interest in establishing an Elk Valley Economic Development Service. If all participants confirm support, staff will prepare a service establishment bylaw based on the report's recommendations. The meeting was brief and adjourned at 1:09pm.

• Forwarded July 2024 CAO report on Elk Valley Economic Development Service to Fernie, Sparwood, Elkford councils and Electoral Area A Director (carried)
• Directed preparation of service establishment bylaw for Elk Valley Economic Development Service upon confirmation of support from all participants (carried)
• Adopted agenda (carried)
• Adopted February 7, 2024 meeting minutes (carried)

Governance and Regional Services Committee

The Governance & Regional Services Committee will consider the allocation of Local Government Climate Action Program funds. It will also reconsider a request for financial support for a temporary outdoor living space. Additional items include a cheque register for July 2024, the 2025 board meeting schedule, and a presentation on the RDEK Retrofit Assist Program.

• Allocation of Local Government Climate Action Program funds (item 7.1)
• Reconsideration of request for financial support – temporary outdoor living space (item 8.3)
• Cheque Register – July 2024 (item 8.1)
• 2025 Board Meeting Schedule (item 8.2)
• RDEK Retrofit Assist Program presentation (item 5.1)

The Governance and Regional Services Committee approved several items, including a $180,000 allocation for a Building Energy Retrofit Program, a $10,000 grant for a Temporary Outdoor Living Space, and the July 2024 cheque register. However, the Board later defeated the retrofit funding recommendation and amended the grant to require a RDEK representative. The committee also approved the 2025 meeting schedule and appointed Director Doehle to an advisory group.

• Approved $180,000 for Building Energy Retrofit Program (opposed: McDonald, Wilks; later defeated by Board on Aug 9)
• Approved $10,000 grant to Mayor's Task Force for Temporary Outdoor Living Space (opposed: Clovechok, Doherty; later amended to require RDEK representative)
• Approved July 2024 cheque register for $4,349,264.55
• Approved 2025 Board meeting schedule
• Approved Special Committee meetings on Feb 12, 2025 for financial plan review
• Accepted January-June 2024 financial statements
• Approved letter of support for Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it speed limit request (later postponed for consultation)
• Appointed Director Doehle to International Joint Commission advisory group

Electoral Area Services Committee

The Electoral Area Services Committee will meet on August 8, 2024 to consider several new business items. Items include an appointment related to the Kootenay West Mine, a review of discretionary Grants‑in‑Aid for community groups, an appointment to the FCM Standing Committees and Forums Committee, and the introduction of an amendment to Noise Control Regulation (Bylaw No. 3336). The meeting also covers routine agenda adoption, minutes adoption, reports, and correspondence.

• Kootenay West Mine – Appointment (environmental assessment office document attached)
• Discretionary Grants‑in‑Aid – August 2024 for Columbia Valley Boating Association, Columbia Valley Search and Rescue, Cranbrook Community Theatre Society, Sparwood Secondary School
• FCM's Standing Committees and Forums Committee Appointment
• Bylaw No. 3336 – Noise Control Regulation Amendment – Introduction
• Engineering and Utilities Report to Board – August 2024

The Electoral Area Services Committee approved four discretionary grants-in-aid, appointed Director Clovechok to a technical advisory committee, authorized Director Schnider to apply for FCM committee positions, and introduced a noise control bylaw amendment. The meeting then adjourned to closed session to discuss litigation and a contract award.

• Approved $1,700 grant to Columbia Valley Boating Association (carried)
• Approved $3,000 to Columbia Valley Search and Rescue from Area F and $2,000 from Area G (carried)
• Approved $2,000 to Cranbrook Community Theatre Society from Area C (carried)
• Approved $3,000 to Sparwood Secondary School from Area A (carried)
• Appointed Director Clovechok to Kootenay West Mine Amendment Technical Advisory Committee (carried)
• Authorized Director Schnider to apply to FCM Standing Committees and Forums (carried)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3336, Noise Control Regulation Amendment Bylaw No. 2, 2024 (carried)

Planning and Development Services Committee

The Planning and Development Services Committee will adopt the agenda and minutes, hear invited presentations, and consider a range of land‑use applications. Items include a bylaw amendment (Bylaw No. 3340), several Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) subdivision and non‑farm use applications, development variance permits, temporary use permits, and a ministry referral for a broadband right‑of‑way. The committee will also address unfinished business and miscellaneous requests for letters of concurrence.

• Bylaw No. 3340 amendment – Fort Steele (Rodgers)
• ALR Subdivision – St. Mary East (Bibby/Terpsma) and Edgewater (Fletcher)
• ALR Non‑Farm Use – Westside Road (876188 Alberta Ltd.)
• Development Variance Permit No. 20‑24 – Brisco Wood Preservers Ltd.
• Temporary Use Permit No. 4‑24 – Fairmont Hot Springs (Deck)

The committee refused three short-term rental temporary use permits (STR TUP Nos. 107-24, 111-24, 112-24) for properties at Fernie Alpine Resort, despite presentations from the operator and community opposition. It also granted several development variance permits and temporary use permits, and supported multiple ALR applications and communications site proposals.

• Refused STR TUP No. 107-24 (Fernie Alpine Resort / Cook)
• Refused STR TUP No. 111-24 (Fernie Alpine Resort / Briggs)
• Refused STR TUP No. 112-24 (Fernie Alpine Resort / Schipper & Ulmer)
• Granted DVP No. 20-24 (Brisco / Brisco Wood Preservers Ltd.)
• Granted DVP No. 21-24 (Gold Creek / Pesce)
• Granted DVP No. 23-24 (Fernie Alpine Resort / Gorrie & Thompson)
• Granted TUP No. 4-24 (Fairmont Hot Springs / Deck) with 13-month term
• Supported ALR subdivision (St. Mary East / Bibby) and non-farm use (Westside Road / 876188 Alberta Ltd.)

Columbia Valley Services Committee

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The committee is scheduled to meet to adopt the agenda and the minutes from the May 9, 2024 meeting.

• Adoption of May 9, 2024 meeting minutes

The committee adopted the meeting agenda and the minutes from May 9, 2024. The meeting adjourned to a closed session to consider the Columbia Valley Economic Development Officer contract award.

• Adopted the meeting agenda (Carried)
• Adopted May 9, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)
• Adjourned to closed session to consider Economic Development Officer contract award (Carried)

RDEK Board of Directors

The RDEK Board of Directors will review several land use bylaw amendments for areas including Wasa, Fairmont Hot Springs, and Baynes Lake. The agenda also includes the adoption of an elections and assent voting bylaw and various development permits. Additionally, the board will consider discretionary grants-in-aid for several local organizations.

• Adoption of Bylaw No. 3339 (Elections and Assent Voting)
• Adoption of Bylaw No. 3292 (Elk Valley Zoning Amendment)
• Adoption of Bylaws 3303 and 3304 (Fairmont Hot Springs/Columbia Valley)
• Discretionary Grants-in-Aid for July 2024
• Review of various development permits (DVP, TUP, STR)

The Board adopted Bylaw No. 3339 regarding elections and assent voting and approved several zoning and official community plan amendments. Other actions included granting multiple development variance permits and providing a $10,000 grant for a temporary outdoor living space.

• Adopted Elections and Assent Voting Bylaw No. 3339
• Approved $10,000 grant for Mayor’s Task Force on Homelessness Temporary Outdoor Living Space
• Approved 2024-2034 Community Works Fund Agreement with UBCM
• Granted Short Term Rental TUP No. 16-24 (Edgewater / Ryder) with parking conditions
• Denied support for Sinister Sports Inc. Crown Land Licence of Occupation in Flathead area
• Approved various Discretionary Grants-in-Aid for CLEAR Society, Cops for Kids, and others
• Adopted zoning amendments for Anderson Road, Fairmont Hot Springs, Kragmont, and Rosen Lake Road
• Directed filing of Notices on Title for bylaw contraventions at 670 Hartley Creek Rd, 7410 Lynch Rd, and Wilson Rd

Electoral Area Services Committee

The committee will consider the introduction of Bylaw No. 3339 regarding elections and assent voting. Members will also discuss the 2024-2034 Community Works Fund Agreement and various discretionary grants-in-aid for local organizations.

• Introduction of Bylaw No. 3339 (Elections and Assent Voting)
• Review of 2024-2034 Community Works Fund Agreement
• Discretionary grants-in-aid for July 2024
• Elko Class C Park Board appointments
• Engineering and Utilities Report to Board

The committee authorized several directors to attend professional conferences and appointed three directors to the Elko Class C Park Board. It approved a series of discretionary grants-in-aid for community projects and introduced a new elections and assent voting bylaw.

• Authorized Directors Doehle and Gay to attend Rural & Remote Broadband Community Conference (Carried)
• Authorized Director Clovechok to attend Economic Development Leadership Learning Exchange (Carried)
• Appointed Directors McDonald, Doehle, and Gay to the Elko Class C Park Board (Carried)
• Authorized signing of 2024-2034 Community Works Fund Agreement with UBCM (Carried)
• Approved Discretionary Grants-in-Aid for CLEAR Society, Cops for Kids, East Kootenay Society for Active Living, Fairmont Community Association, Military Ames Society, and Royal Canadian Legion Branch #199 (Carried)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3339 (Elections and Assent Voting Bylaw No. 3339, 2024) (Carried)

Planning and Development Services Committee

The committee will consider various land use applications, including bylaw amendments for Windermere South. Members will also review development variance permits and temporary use permits. The agenda includes reviews of crown land referrals for Area A, B, and E.

• Bylaw Amendment No. 3333 (Windermere South)
• TUP No. 3-24 for Cranbrook North (includes a petition with 195 signatures)
• DVP No. 16-24 (Windermere North)
• Bylaw No. 3245 & 3246 (Wasa / 1302635 BC Ltd.)
• Crown Land Licence and Right of Way referrals

The committee introduced two bylaws to amend the Official Community Plan and zoning for a residential subdivision on Lazy Lake Road. Several development variance permits were granted, and the committee issued support or opposition for various Crown land applications.

• Introduced Bylaw No. 3245 and No. 3246 for Wasa residential subdivision (Carried)
• Granted DVP No. 6-24 (Rosen Lake / Basaraba) (Carried)
• Granted DVP No. 16-24 (Windermere North / Van Hereweghe) (Carried)
• Granted DVP No. 17-24 (Columere Park / Guise & Read) (Carried)
• Granted DVP No. 18-24 (Gold Creek / Sunview Properties Ltd.) (Carried)
• Postponed TUP No. 3-24 for rock extraction at 2593 Wilson Road for further consultation (Carried)
• Granted STR TUP No. 16-24 (Edgewater / Ryder) with parking conditions (Carried)
• Opposed Sinister Sports Inc. Crown Land Licence of Occupation for ultramarathon course (Carried)

Governance and Regional Services Committee

The Committee will discuss the allocation of Local Government Climate Action Program funds and a request for financial support for Temporary Outdoor Living Space. Members will also consider an appointment to the Mines Development Review Committee regarding the Four J Gypsum Mine.

• Appointment for the Four J Gypsum Mine to the Mines Development Review Committee
• Allocation of Local Government Climate Action Program funds
• Request for financial support for Temporary Outdoor Living Space
• Review of June 2024 cheque register
• Environmental and Protective Services reports

The committee approved a grant for the Mayor’s Task Force on Homelessness, Community Safety and Wellbeing and appointed members to a mine review committee. A request for $180,000 in climate action funds was postponed for more information.

• Approved June 2024 cheque register for $1,505,913.17
• Appointed Director Susan Clovechok and Director Mark Doherty to the Mines Development Review Committee for the Four J Gypsum Mine application
• Postponed allocation of $180,000 from Local Government Climate Action Plan reserve fund for Building Energy Retrofit Program
• Approved $10,000 grant from General Administration to the Mayor’s Task Force on Homelessness, Community Safety and Wellbeing for the Temporary Outdoor Living Space

RDEK Board of Directors

The RDEK Board of Directors will review several regional zoning and Official Community Plan amendments. The agenda also includes establishing a new rural fire protection service for Kimberley and approving community grants.

• Establishment of Kimberley Rural Fire Protection Service (Bylaws 3331 and 3332)
• Discretionary Grants-in-Aid for various local clubs and associations
• Security Issuing Bylaw No. 3337 for Canal Flats sewage plant upgrade
• Edgewater Broadband Connectivity Project contract award
• Multiple zoning and Official Community Plan amendments

The Regional District of East Kootenay Board adopted a series of zoning amendment bylaws (Bylaws No. 3309–3316) implementing Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) across multiple electoral area zoning and floodplain management bylaws. The Board also introduced and advanced bylaws for a Kimberley Rural Fire Protection Service, including a loan authorization bylaw, and approved a five-year Next Generation 911 service agreement with Telus over two opposed votes. Several development variance permits and short-term rental temporary use permits were granted, and multiple Notices on Title were directed for bylaw contraventions. The meeting adjourned to a closed session to consider litigation or potential litigation.

• Adopted SSMUH zoning amendment Bylaws No. 3309–3316 (nine bylaws, all carried)
• Introduced and read first, second, third time Kimberley Rural Fire Protection Service Establishment Bylaw No. 3331 and Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 3332
• Authorized Chair and CAO to sign five-year Next Generation 911 agreement with Telus (carried; opposed: Doherty, Wilks)
• Directed letter to federal government on NG 911 agreement process (carried)
• Approved cheque register for May 2024 in amount of $2,823,863.73
• Approved 2024/2025 Resident Directed Grants funding recommendations
• Awarded Edgewater Broadband fibre optic contract to DHC Communications Inc.
• Awarded Wycliffe Regional Park Campground Development contract to Astraf Construction Ltd.

Governance and Regional Services Committee

The committee will review funding recommendations for the 2024/2025 Resident Directed Grants. The agenda also includes a service agreement for Next Generation 911 and an update on the Cranbrook Transfer Station Reuse Shed closure. Additionally, Bylaw No. 3337 regarding borrowing for the Canal Flats sewage treatment plant upgrade will be introduced.

• 2024/2025 Resident Directed Grants funding recommendations
• Next Generation 911 Local Government Service Agreement
• Introduction of Bylaw No. 3337 for Canal Flats sewage treatment plant upgrade borrowing
• Special Event License for Cranbrook Pro Rodeo 2024
• Cranbrook Transfer Station Reuse Shed closure update

The Governance & Regional Services Committee approved a five-year Next Generation 911 Local Government Service Agreement with Telus, after voting down a motion not to approve it. The committee also approved the May 2024 cheque register of $2,823,863.73, the 2024/2025 Resident Directed Grants funding recommendations, a special event licence for the Cranbrook Pro Rodeo, and introduced Security Issuing Bylaw No. 3337. It decided to keep the Cranbrook Transfer Station Reuse Shed closed and to send a letter to the federal government about the NG 911 agreement process.

• Approved five-year Next Generation 911 service agreement with Telus (opposed: Doherty, Wilks)
• Denied motion not to approve the NG 911 agreement (in favour: Doherty, Wilks)
• Approved letter to federal government on NG 911 agreement process (opposed: Doherty, Wilks)
• Approved May 2024 cheque register of $2,823,863.73
• Approved 2024/2025 Resident Directed Grants funding recommendations
• Issued special event licence for Cranbrook Pro Rodeo, Aug 16-18, 2024, with noise bylaw exemptions
• Kept Cranbrook Transfer Station Reuse Shed closed
• Introduced Security Issuing Bylaw No. 3337

Planning and Development Services Committee

The Planning and Development Services Committee will review various bylaw amendments for areas including Gold Creek, Windermere, and Rosen Lake Road. The meeting also includes discussions on short-term rental applications and agricultural land reserve uses. Additionally, the committee will review mines referrals and development reports.

• Bylaw amendments for Gold Creek, Windermere, and Rosen Lake Road
• Short-term rental permit applications for Dutch Creek and Windermere
• Development Variance Permit applications for Lizard Creek, Koocanusa Village, and Wasa
• Agricultural Land Reserve application for Wycliffe
• Mines referral for Fertoz International Organic Inc

The Planning and Development Services Committee introduced seven amendment bylaws related to Official Community Plans and zoning. The committee also granted four development variance permits and one short-term rental permit, while refusing one short-term rental permit.

• Introduced Bylaws 3292, 3319, 3320, 3322, 3323, 3327, 3330, 3324, and 3325 (Carried)
• Supported ALR non-adhering residential use for 9102 Wycliffe-Cherry Creek Road (Carried)
• Granted DVP No. 8-24 for Lizard Creek subject to a covenant (Carried; 1 opposed)
• Granted DVP No. 12-24 for Koocanusa Village (Carried)
• Granted DVP No. 13-24 for Anderson Road (Carried)
• Granted DVP No. 14-24 for Wasa (Carried)
• Granted STR No. 42-24 for Teal Rd with parking conditions (Carried; 3 opposed)
• Refused STR No. 43-24 for Timber Ridge Rd (Carried)

Electoral Area Services Committee

The committee will consider bylaws for establishing the Kimberley Rural Fire Protection Service. Members will also review discretionary grants-in-aid for several local organizations and discuss election officer appointments.

• Bylaws 3331 and 3332 regarding Kimberley Rural Fire Protection Service establishment
• Discretionary Grants-in-Aid for groups including BC 55+ Games Society and Moyie Community Association
• Appointment and pay rates for Chief and Deputy Election Officers
• Engineering and Utilities Report to Board

The Electoral Area Services Committee adopted the May 9, 2024 minutes, approved several Discretionary Grants-in-Aid, and authorized travel for the UBCM Annual Convention. The committee also initiated the Kimberley Rural Fire Protection Service establishment process by introducing related bylaws, setting an assent vote method, and appointing election officials.

• Approved agenda for June 13, 2024 meeting
• Approved May 9, 2024 meeting minutes
• Authorized Chair and Electoral Area Directors to attend UBCM Annual Convention
• Approved Discretionary Grants-in-Aid for June 2024
• Approved Assent Vote method for Kimberley Rural Fire Protection Service establishment
• Introduced Kimberley Rural Fire Protection Service Establishment Bylaw No. 3331
• Introduced Kimberley Rural Fire Protection Service Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 3332
• Appointed Chief and Deputy Chief Election Officers and set pay rates for the assent vote

RDEK Board of Directors

The RDEK Board of Directors is meeting to consider a large number of zoning and fee bylaws, including adopting 11 bylaws to allow small-scale multi-unit housing across multiple electoral areas. The board will also vote on fee changes for the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena, septage disposal in Area A, and the Edgewater sewer system, and consider several property-specific rezoning applications.

• Adoption of 11 Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) zoning bylaws (Bylaws 3309-3316) across Steeples, Electoral Area C South, Wycliffe, Electoral Area E, Elk Valley, South Country, Sweetwater, and Columbia Valley
• Three readings and adoption of Bylaw 3321 (Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena Regulation and Fee Amendment)
• Three readings and adoption of Bylaw 3326 (Area A Septage Disposal Regulation and Fee Amendment)
• Three readings and adoption of Bylaw 3328 (Edgewater Sewer System Regulation and Fee Amendment)
• Adoption of 2023 Audited Financial Statements and 2023 Statement of Financial Information

The Board adopted several regulation and fee bylaws for arenas and sewer systems. It approved multiple Official Community Plan and zoning amendments, including several for small-scale multi-unit housing. The Board also authorized grants for school projects and a ceremonial salmon release.

• Adopted Bylaws 3321, 3326, and 3328 regarding arena, septage, and sewer fees
• Approved Discretionary Grants-in-Aid for Frank J Mitchell and Windermere Elementary schools
• Denied grant for Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley
• Awarded East Side Lake Windermere Water System controls upgrade contract to KJ Controls Ltd.
• Approved 2023 Audited Financial Statements and April 2024 cheque register of $2,460,968.57
• Approved grant up to $2,500 to Shuswap Band for Ceremonial Salmon Release and Salmonfest
• Adopted 7 Small-Scale Multi Unit Housing zoning bylaw amendments (Bylaws 3309-3316)
• Directed Corporate Officer to file Notices on Title for four properties due to bylaw contraventions

Electoral Area Services Committee

The Electoral Area Services Committee is meeting to discuss several items including discretionary grants-in-aid for local organizations, a commitment letter for the Fernie Valley Pathway in Electoral Area A, and introduction of bylaw amendments for septage disposal fees in Area A and sewer fees in Edgewater. The agenda also includes an engineering services report and a small emergent grant request from the Wasa & District Lions Club.

• Discretionary Grants-in-Aid – May 2024 for Frank J. Mitchell Elementary School, Windermere Elementary School, and Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley
• Fernie Valley Pathway - Electoral Area A Park Commitment Letter
• Bylaw No. 3326 - Area A Septage Disposal Regulation and Fee Amendment - Introduction
• Bylaw No. 3328 - Edgewater Sewer System Regulation and Fee Amendment - Introduction
• Discretionary Grant-in-Aid – Wasa & District Lions Club (Small Emergent Grant)

The Electoral Area Services Committee approved discretionary grants for two elementary schools and denied a grant to the Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley. They also committed to establishing the Fernie Valley Pathway as a park, subject to external funding, and introduced two bylaws regarding septage disposal and sewer fees. The meeting adjourned to a closed session to discuss litigation notices and water system controls.

• Approved $2,500 grant for Frank J Mitchell Elementary School playground
• Approved $1,000 total grants for Windermere Elementary School PAC Carnival
• Denied grant to Christmas Bureau of the Columbia Valley
• Approved commitment letter for Fernie Valley Pathway park establishment
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3326 for Area A Septage Disposal Regulation and Fee
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3328 for Edgewater Sewer System Regulation and Fee
• Adjourned to closed session for litigation and water system matters

Central Services Committee

The Central Services Committee will hear a delegation and receive a report on the Cranbrook Regional Transit Study, including letters of support from the City of Cranbrook and City of Kimberley. The meeting also covers routine procedural items such as approval of minutes and late agenda items.

• Cranbrook Regional Transit Study presentation and discussion (item 5.1)
• Delegation request and supporting documents from Cranbrook, Kimberley, and ʔaq'am
• Adoption of minutes from February 7, 2024 meeting

The Central Services Committee reviewed the Cranbrook Regional Transit Study and approved a motion for staff to coordinate a meeting with ʔ aq̓am, the City of Cranbrook, and the City of Kimberley. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the study's recommendations and identified gaps. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Agenda adopted (unanimous)
• February 7, 2024 minutes adopted (unanimous)
• Staff directed to coordinate meeting with ʔ aq̓am, Cranbrook, and Kimberley regarding transit study (unanimous)

Planning and Development Services Committee

The Planning and Development Services Committee will discuss and potentially advance multiple zoning bylaw amendments, including a major package of 11 bylaws to implement provincial small-scale multi-unit housing legislation. The committee will also hear delegations on several property-specific rezoning applications and consider development variance and temporary use permits.

• 11 Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing zoning bylaws for Steeples, Electoral Area C South, Wycliffe, Electoral Area E, Elk Valley, South Country, Sweetwater, and Columbia Valley
• Bylaw No. 3293 & 3294 for Cranbrook West (Faiers & McNiven) rezoning
• Bylaw No. 3264 & 3265 for Gold Creek (Visentin) rezoning
• Bylaw No. 3307 & 3308 for Baynes Lake (Kabel) rezoning
• Development Variance Permit DVP No. 5-24 for Windermere (Dalke, Luyendyk & Metcalfe)

The Planning and Development Services Committee introduced several Official Community Plan (OCP) and zoning amendment bylaws for properties in Cranbrook West, Gold Creek, Fairmont Hot Springs, and Baynes Lake. The committee also approved a development variance permit for Windermere and a temporary use permit for Wasa.

• Introduced OCP and zoning amendment bylaws for Cranbrook West / Faiers & McNiven (Carried)
• Introduced OCP and zoning amendment bylaws for Gold Creek / Visentin (Carried)
• Introduced OCP and zoning amendment bylaws for Fairmont Hot Springs / HC Consulting Inc. et al (Carried)
• Introduced OCP and zoning amendment bylaws for Baynes Lake / Kabel (Carried)
• Introduced eight Small-Scale Multi Unit Housing zoning bylaw amendments (Carried)
• Granted Development Variance Permit No. 5-24 for Windermere subject to a covenant (Carried)
• Granted Temporary Use Permit No. 2-24 for Wasa (Carried)
• Supported Golden Rock Products Inc. amended Crown Land Licence of Occupation near Kimberley (Carried)

Governance and Regional Services Committee

The Governance and Regional Services Committee will consider the 2023 audited financial statements, the 2023 Statement of Financial Information, and a 2024/2025 Columbia Valley & Elk Valley Annual Operating Agreement with BC Transit. Other items include a partner support request for a ceremonial salmon release and Salmonfest, and a director nomination for the Columbia Basin Trust.

• 2023 Audited Financial Statements presented by BDO Canada LLP
• 2024/2025 Columbia Valley & Elk Valley Annual Operating Agreement with BC Transit
• Partner Support Request – Ceremonial Salmon Release and Salmonfest from Shuswap Band
• Columbia Basin Trust - Appointment of Director
• Cheque Register - April 2024

The Governance & Regional Services Committee approved the 2023 audited financial statements and the April 2024 cheque register. The committee appointed Director Susan Clovechok as the representative to the Columbia Basin Trust Board of Directors and authorized the 2024/2025 BC Transit operating agreement.

• Approved 2023 RDEK Audited Financial Statements
• Approved 2023 RDEK Statement of Financial Information
• Appointed Director Susan Clovechok as RDEK representative to the Columbia Basin Trust Board (2025-2027)
• Approved April 2024 cheque register for $2,460,968.57
• Authorized signing of 2024/2025 Annual Operating Agreement with BC Transit
• Accepted January to March 2024 quarterly financial statements
• Approved $2,500 General Administration grant to Shuswap Band for Ceremonial Salmon Release and Salmonfest
• Appointed Director Mark Doherty to the UBCM Off Road Vehicle Working Group

Columbia Valley Services Committee

The Columbia Valley Services Committee will consider introducing Bylaw No. 3321, which sets regulations and fees for the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena. The committee will also receive a presentation on the Columbia Valley Public Transit Project. The meeting includes adoption of previous minutes and standard procedural items.

• Introduction of Bylaw No. 3321 (Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena Regulation and Fee)
• Presentation on Columbia Valley Public Transit Project by Aivian Harder, Seth Rievaj, and Kristin Whitlow
• Adoption of minutes from March 7, 2024 meeting

The Columbia Valley Services Committee introduced an amendment to the Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena Regulation and Fee Bylaw. Students from David Thompson Secondary School presented a transit project and requested assistance with promotion to increase ridership.

• Introduced Bylaw No. 3321 (Eddie Mountain Memorial Arena Regulation and Fee Amendment) (Carried)
• Adopted the meeting agenda (Carried)
• Adopted the March 7, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)

RDEK Board of Directors

The Board approved several discretionary grants, including $35,000 for the Sand Creek Community Club. It authorized a grant application for up to $1,800,000 for regional hazard analysis and granted three short-term rental permits with specific parking conditions.

• Approved $35,000 grant to Sand Creek Community Club for economic development
• Approved grant application up to $1.8M for Regional Hazards, Risks and Vulnerability Analysis
• Authorized 5-year Licence Area Agreement with Rogers Communications Inc.
• Granted STR TUP No. 9-24 (Highline Drive / Friend) with occupancy and parking limits
• Granted STR TUP No. 10-24 (Resort Drive) and STR TUP No. 17-24 (Alpine Way) with parking limits
• Refused Temporary Use Permit for recreational use at Koocanusa Village (Oudshoorn)
• Approved $10,375.23 for UBCM annual membership dues
• Directed filing of Notice on Title for bylaw contraventions at 1696 Conroy Road North and 2615 Lakeside Circle

Governance and Regional Services Committee

The Governance and Regional Services Committee will hear invited presentations on Angel Flight East Kootenay, the Kootenay Clean Energy Transition, the RDEK Community Energy Manager update, and the East Kootenay FireSmart Program. New business includes a cheque register for March 2024, a Community Emergency Preparedness Fund application for a regional hazards analysis, a request for a letter of support from Tourism Fernie regarding the Municipal and Regional District Tax, and a proposed amendment to the Capital Asset Policy.

• Presentation from Angel Flight East Kootenay
• Presentation on Kootenay Clean Energy Transition by Community Energy Association
• RDEK Community Energy Manager update and priority topics
• East Kootenay FireSmart Program presentation by RDEK
• Community Emergency Preparedness Fund application for Regional Hazards, Risks and Vulnerability Analysis

The committee approved a grant application for the East Kootenay Emergency Management Program and authorized a letter of support for Tourism Fernie's tax renewal. Members also approved the March 2024 cheque register and an amendment to the Capital Asset Policy.

• Approved $2,542,717.92 March 2024 cheque register (Carried)
• Approved grant application for up to $1,800,000 for Regional Hazards, Risks, and Vulnerability Analysis (Carried)
• Approved letter of support for Tourism Fernie 3% tax renewal for 2025-2029 (Carried)
• Approved Capital Asset Policy amendment (Carried)

Electoral Area Services Committee

The Electoral Area Services Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially decide on several items, including a letter of support for Mountain Kids Swim Lessons, a grant request from the South Country Social Planning Society, discretionary grants-in-aid, a request to change the Key City Theatre Community Works Fund project to a passenger elevator, UBCM membership dues, and a Rogers Communications licence area agreement. The agenda also includes routine adoption of minutes and reports.

• Mountain Kids Swim Lessons - letter of support
• South Country Social Planning Society grant request - Area B Economic Development Service
• Discretionary Grants-in-Aid – April 2024 (Rotary Club of Cranbrook Sunrise, Royal Canadian Legion Branch No 36 Fernie, Sand Creek Community Club, Kimberley and District Chamber of Commerce)
• Key City Theatre – request to change Community Works Fund project to passenger elevator
• Rogers Communications Inc. Licence Area Agreement

The committee approved several discretionary grants and a $35,000 economic development grant for the Sand Creek Community Club. It also authorized a telecommunications agreement with Rogers Communications Inc. and a letter of support for swim lessons at Waldo Cove Regional Park.

• Approved letter of support for Mountain Kids Swim Lessons commercial operation at Waldo Cove Regional Park
• Approved $35,000 grant to Sand Creek Community Club for South Country Social Planning Society initiatives
• Approved Discretionary Grants-in-Aid for Rotary Club of Cranbrook ($2,000), RC Legion Branch #36 ($1,000), and Sand Creek Community Club ($3,000 total)
• Denied Discretionary Grant-in-Aid for Kimberley & District Chamber of Commerce JulyFest 2024
• Approved Key City Theatre request to reallocate 2023 Community Works Fund Grant to Passenger Elevator project
• Approved $10,375.23 for 2024 UBCM membership dues
• Authorized five-year Licence Area Agreement with Rogers Communications Inc. for telecommunications facilities

Planning and Development Services Committee

The Planning and Development Services Committee will hear delegations and consider several bylaw amendments, Agricultural Land Reserve applications, temporary use permits (including short-term rentals), and ministry referrals. The agenda includes items for Wasa, Windermere, Meadowbrook, and other areas, as well as a planning process for Area A's Official Community Plan.

• Bylaw No. 3245 and 3246 (Wasa / 1302635 BC Ltd.)
• Bylaw No. 3302 (Windermere / Owners in Strata Plan NES21)
• ALR Subdivision Application for Gold Creek & Joseph Creek Watersheds / Fountain Capital Corp Inc.
• STR TUP No. 10-24 (Resort Drive / Barry Stuart Realty & Brick Investments)
• Teck Resources Ltd. Crown Land Coal Licence Renewal in Upper Elk Valley

The committee introduced several zoning bylaw amendments for properties in Wasa, Windermere, and Electoral Area E. It granted three short-term rental permits with specific parking and occupancy conditions, while refusing a temporary use permit in Koocanusa Village. The committee also supported various land use applications, including ALR subdivisions and Crown land licences, and authorized the consolidation of Official Community Plans for the Elk Valley area.

• Postponed Bylaws 3245 & 3246 for further consultation (Wasa subdivision)
• Introduced Bylaw 3289 (Meadowbrook/Dufresne zoning amendment)
• Introduced Bylaws 3300 & 3301 (Wasa/Santucci OCP and zoning amendments)
• Introduced Bylaw 3302 (Windermere strata zoning amendment)
• Supported Fountain Capital Corp ALR subdivision (Gold Creek Road)
• Supported Slee ALR subdivision (Grasmere)
• Supported McMahon ALR non-adhering residential use (Cranbrook)
• Refused Oudshoorn Temporary Use Permit (Koocanusa Village)

RDEK Board of Directors

The RDEK Board will consider adopting Bylaw No. 3306, the 2024-2028 Five Year Financial Plan, and hold public hearings on several zoning amendment bylaws. The agenda also includes presentations on BC Hydro's Teck Electrification Project and chronic wasting disease, as well as decisions on discretionary grants, short-term rental permits, and planning reconsideration requests.

• Bylaw No. 3306 - 2024-2028 Five Year Financial Plan for three readings and adoption
• Public hearings for zoning amendments in Wasa (Keljac Consulting) and Cranbrook West (Faiers & McNiven)
• Short-term rental temporary use permits for 5424A and 5424B Resort Drive
• Discretionary Grants-in-Aid for March 2024 to seven community organizations
• Reconsideration requests for denied development variance permits in Koocanusa Village and Tie Lake

The Board approved the 2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan and authorized an additional Planner position. Several development variance permits were granted after reconsideration, while a sand and gravel extraction request was refused. The Board also approved various discretionary grants and construction awards.

• Adopted 2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 3306 (Carried)
• Approved adding one additional Planner position (Carried; 2 opposed)
• Awarded Radium Transfer Station Phase 2 construction to Max Helmer Construction (Carried)
• Refused Power Paving Ltd. reconsideration for sand and gravel extraction on Holmes Road (Carried; 2 opposed)
• Granted Development Variance Permits for Koocanusa Village/Klein and Tie Lake/Wowchuk (Carried)
• Approved $75,000 - $90,000 of Capacity Grant Funding for a Housing Needs Report (Carried)
• Approved various Discretionary Grants-in-Aid totaling $22,174 (Carried)
• Directed filing of Notice on Title for bylaw contraventions at 2593 Wilson Road and 2669 Betania Road (Carried)

Electoral Area Services Committee

The Electoral Area Services Committee will consider several items including a report on water and sewer connection and residential user fees for 2023, a sponsorship request for the Keeping it Rural Conference, and a Wasa Lake user traffic survey. The committee will also vote on discretionary grants-in-aid for seven local organizations and discuss attendance at the AKBLG Convention.

• Discretionary Grants-in-Aid for March 2024: Cristoforo Colombo Lodge, Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley, Kimberley Minor Hockey Association, Wardner Community Association, Western Canadian Blind Golf Association, Windermere Valley Youth Centre
• Report on Water Sewer Connection and Residential User Fee 2023 Summary
• BC Rural Centre - Keeping it Rural Conference Sponsorship
• Living Lakes Canada - Wasa Lake User Traffic Survey
• Water Production and Residential Metered Consumption 2020-2023

The Electoral Area Services Committee approved $500 for conference sponsorship and authorized attendance at the Association of Kootenay and Boundary Local Governments Convention. The committee also approved a total of $28,674 in discretionary grants-in-aid for various local organizations. The meeting adjourned to a closed session to discuss potential litigation affecting the Regional District.

• Approved $500 sponsorship for BC Rural Centre Conference
• Authorized attendance at AKBLG Convention in Radium Hot Springs
• Approved $2,500 grant for Cristoforo Colombo Lodge stairlift access
• Approved $8,000 total grants for Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley
• Approved $7,500 total grants for Kimberley Minor Hockey Association
• Approved $4,674 grant for Wardner Community Association furnace replacement
• Approved $3,000 total grants for Western Canadian Blind Golf Association
• Approved $3,000 total grants for Windermere Valley Youth Centre security cameras

Governance and Regional Services Committee

The Governance and Regional Services Committee will consider introducing Bylaw No. 3306 for the 2024-2028 Five Year Financial Plan, along with reviewing the draft plan and related reports. Other business includes an audit planning report from BDO Canada LLP, a request for an additional planner position, and a capacity grant funding request. The committee will also consider a memorandum of understanding renewal for the Southeastern BC Regional Connectivity Committee.

• Introduction of Bylaw No. 3306 for the 2024-2028 Five Year Financial Plan
• Review of draft 2024-2028 financial plan and requisition change
• Audit planning report from BDO Canada LLP for 2023
• Request for an additional planner position
• Capacity grant funding request

The committee approved the creation of an additional planner position and allocated capacity grant funding for a Housing Needs Report and Bill 44 bylaw amendments. Other actions included approving the February cheque register and a connectivity memorandum of understanding.

• Approved February 2024 cheque register for $2,359,003.58
• Authorized Councillor Sue Cairns to attend CABRO training on April 26, 2024
• Advised BDO Canada LLP of no significant audit concerns or risks
• Approved adding an additional Planner position (Opposed: Director Blissett, Director Price)
• Allocated $75,000 - $90,000 of Capacity Grant Funding for a Housing Needs Report and remaining funds for Bill 44 implementation
• Authorized Chair to sign 3-year MoU with Southeastern BC Regional Connectivity Committee
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3306 (2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan), as amended

Columbia Valley Services Committee

The committee will discuss the draft 2024-2028 financial plan, including funding for Columbia Valley economic development, housing society, physician recruitment, solid waste, and public library grants-in-aid. No final decisions are listed; items are marked for discussion.

• Discussion of Columbia Valley Economic Development funding
• Columbia Valley Housing Society funding proposal
• Columbia Valley Physician Recruitment funding proposal
• Columbia Valley Solid Waste draft plan
• Public Library Grants-in-Aid discussion, including Invermere Public Library

The Columbia Valley Services Committee voted against increasing a grant for the Columbia Valley Physician Recruitment Initiative. The committee also reviewed amendments to the draft 2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan.

• Increase of 2024 Columbia Valley Physician Recruitment Initiative grant from $20,000 to $27,413 defeated (3 opposed)
• Adopted agenda
• Adopted February 7, 2024 meeting minutes
• Adopted February 8, 2024 meeting minutes

Planning and Development Services Committee

The Planning and Development Services Committee will hear public delegations on a proposed short-term rental temporary use permit policy amendment, reconsideration requests for denied applications, and several zoning bylaw amendments. The agenda includes 12 delegation items covering topics such as ALR non-farm use, development variance permits, and short-term rental permits at specific properties.

• Short Term Rental Temporary Use Permit Policy Amendment – density guidelines discussion
• Reconsideration request for ALR Non-Farm Use application by Power Paving Ltd. (Fort Steele)
• Reconsideration request for DVP No. 44-23 (Koocanusa Village / Klein)
• Bylaw No. 3274 (Columere / Timber Springs Community Association) amendment
• Bylaw No. 3296 & 3297 (Line Creek / Teck Coal) amendment

The committee granted two previously refused development variance permits and supported a sand and gravel application for the City of Fernie. It also approved amendments to the Short Term Rental Temporary Use Permit Policy. Several other zoning and short-term rental applications were postponed for further consultation.

• Granted Development Variance Permit No. 44-23 for Koocanusa Village (Carried)
• Granted Development Variance Permit No. 46-23 for Tie Lake (Carried)
• Supported City of Fernie ALR non-farm use application for sand and gravel in Elko (Carried)
• Amended the Short Term Rental Temporary Use Permit Policy (Carried; 3 opposed)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3274 for Timber Springs Community Association (Carried)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3286 and 3287 for Wasa/Keljac Consulting Inc (Carried)
• Postponed Bylaw No. 3293 for Cranbrook West for further consultation (Carried)
• Postponed STR TUPs 23-007 and 23-008 for Resort Drive (Carried)

RDEK Board of Directors

The RDEK Board is adopting Official Community Plan and Zoning amendments for Baynes Lake and Lake Koocanusa, and establishing fire service areas for Panorama and Edgewater. The board will also vote on funding requests for local organizations, approve a new parks fee bylaw, and review planning applications including short-term rentals and a housing development.

• Adoption of Bylaw No. 3272 (Baynes Lake OCP) and Bylaw No. 3273 (South Country Zoning/Floodplain)
• Adoption of Bylaw No. 3277 (Lake Koocanusa OCP) and Bylaw No. 3278 (SweetWater Zoning/Floodplain)
• Three readings for Bylaw No. 3280 (Panorama Fire) and Bylaw No. 3281 (Edgewater Fire)
• Adoption of Bylaw No. 3295 (Park and Trails Regulation and Fee Bylaw)
• Review of DVP No. 53-23 for Treehouse Holdings Ltd. (Cedar Ridge Homes)

The Regional District of East Kootenay board approved a $25,000 grant to the Columbia Valley Housing Society after defeating a proposed $35,000 grant. It also approved a $100,000 per year grant to Tourism Radium for 2024-2026, a $210,000 grant to Peaks Gymnastics Society, and decided the new administration building will be fully owned by the RDEK. The board introduced and advanced several bylaws, including fire service area amendments and zoning amendments, and approved various grants and appointments.

• Approved $25,000 grant to Columbia Valley Housing Society (carried; $35,000 motion defeated)
• Approved $100,000 per year for three years to Tourism Radium for Valley Visitor Services (carried)
• Approved $210,000 grant to Peaks Gymnastics Society for new building (carried)
• Approved $85,000 per year for two years to City of Cranbrook for homelessness staff position (carried)
• Decided new administration building be fully owned by RDEK (carried; opposed: Blissett, Price)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3280 (Panorama Fire and Rescue Service Area) and Bylaw No. 3281 (Edgewater Fire and Rescue Service Area) (carried)
• Approved cheque register for January 2024 in the amount of $2,084,241.65 (carried)
• Postponed for one month funding for additional Planner for Provincial housing mandates (carried)

Planning and Development Services Committee

The Planning & Development Services Committee will hear five delegations on items including a short-term rental temporary use permit (STR TUP No. 23-001) and two bylaw amendments (Bylaw No. 3279 and Bylaw No. 3288). The committee will also discuss new business items including a development variance permit (DVP No. 53-23), a temporary use permit (STR TUP No. 23-019), and provincial guidance on the Housing Statutes (Residential Development) Act Amendment. Several items from the Agricultural Land Commission and advisory planning commission minutes are also on the agenda for receipt.

• Delegation on STR TUP No. 23-001 (Diamond B Ranch Road / Trochessett) with letters of support and opposition
• Bylaw No. 3279 (Anderson Road / Swansburg) and Bylaw No. 3288 (Meadowbrook / Seifried) amendments
• DVP No. 53-23 (Treehouse Holdings Ltd.) with public letters
• STR TUP No. 23-019 (Boomerang Way / Sorensen) with comment letters including from Tourism Fernie
• Discussion on Housing Statutes (Residential Development) Act Amendment direction

The committee granted multiple short-term rental permits and a development variance for a secondary suite. It also introduced two zoning bylaw amendments and directed staff to prepare bylaw changes for secondary suites to comply with the Housing Statutes (Residential Development) Act.

• Granted Short Term Rental Temporary Use Permit No. STR 23-001 (Diamond B Ranch Road / Trochessett)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3279 for Elk Valley Zoning (Anderson Road / Swansburg)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3288 for Electoral Area E Zoning (Meadowbrook / Seifried) subject to a development agreement
• Granted Development Variance Permit No. 53-23 (Treehouse Holdings Ltd.) with a restrictive covenant prohibiting short-term rentals
• Granted Short Term Rental Temporary Use Permit No. STR 23-019 (Boomerang Way / Sorensen) with parking and accessory dwelling restrictions
• Supported 1094444 BC Ltd. Crown Land Licence of Occupation for Copper Lake Camp, but not Johnson Lake Camp
• Directed bylaw amendments for secondary suites in restricted zones, limiting floor space to 49% of the principal dwelling

Columbia Valley Services Committee

The committee will consider an update on operating hours for the Radium Transfer Station. Other agenda items include adoption of previous minutes, correspondence, and director reports. The meeting is largely procedural with one substantive discussion item.

• Radium Transfer Station hours of operation (discussion/update)
• Adoption of January 11, 2024 meeting minutes
• Passing of voting rules for late agenda items

The Columbia Valley Services Committee adopted its agenda and the January 11, 2024 minutes, both carried. In unfinished business, the committee decided that once development is complete, the Radium Transfer Station will operate 8:30am to 5:30pm seven days a week and be closed on Christmas Day, New Years Day, Remembrance Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Family Day. Directors also discussed challenges with passenger directed vehicles; Vice Chair Gray asked for feedback to take to the next Parliamentary Committee meeting, with no decision recorded. The meeting adjourned at 1:48pm.

• Adopted the February 8, 2024 agenda (carried)
• Adopted the January 11, 2024 meeting minutes as circulated (carried)
• Set Radium Transfer Station hours upon completion of development: 8:30am-5:30pm seven days a week, closed Christmas Day, New Years Day, Remembrance Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Family Day (carried)
• Passenger directed vehicles discussed only; no decision, feedback requested for next Parliamentary Committee meeting

Governance and Regional Services Committee

The Governance and Regional Services Committee will discuss several items including funding options for a new administration building, an amendment to the E911 emergency services communication agreement with the Regional District of Central Okanagan, and a community emergency preparedness grant. They will also consider sponsorship for the AKBLG convention, attendance at a regional district chairs and CAO forum, and introduction of a parks and trails regulation and fee bylaw.

• New Administration Building – Funding Options (item 8.6)
• E911 Emergency Services Communication Agreement amendment with RDCO (item 8.3)
• Community Emergency Preparedness – Regional EOC Readiness and Capacity Building Project grant (item 8.5)
• Bylaw No. 3295 – Park and Trails Regulation and Fee introduction (item 9.1)
• AKBLG Convention and Annual General Meeting Sponsorship (item 8.1)

The committee approved that the new administration building be fully owned by the RDEK. Other actions included approving a $7,000 conference sponsorship and a grant application for emergency preparedness. A proposal for an Alternative Approval Process for long-term borrowing was defeated.

• Approved RDEK full ownership of new administration building
• Defeated proposal for Alternative Approval Process for long-term borrowing
• Approved $7,000 sponsorship for 2024 AKBLG Annual Conference
• Authorized Chair to attend Regional District Chair and CAO Forum in Victoria
• Authorized signing of E911 Emergency Services Communication Agreement Amendment No. 5
• Approved January 2024 cheque register for $2,084,241.65
• Approved grant application for up to $210,000 for Regional EOC Readiness and Capacity Building Project
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3295 (Park and Trails Regulation and Fee)

Electoral Area Services Committee

The Electoral Area Services Committee is meeting to discuss and decide on several items, including attendance at conferences, a road rehabilitation project in the Flathead Valley, renewal of a building inspection services agreement with Sparwood, and discretionary grants-in-aid. The committee will also introduce bylaws to expand fire and rescue service areas in Panorama and Edgewater, and consider an amendment to the Regional Parks Plan for Elk River accesses.

• Bylaw No. 3280 to expand Panorama Fire and Rescue Service Area
• Bylaw No. 3281 to expand Edgewater Fire and Rescue Service Area
• Flathead Valley Road Rehabilitation project
• Building and Plumbing Inspection Services Agreement renewal with District of Sparwood
• Discretionary Grants-in-Aid for February 2024

The committee approved several discretionary grants-in-aid and designated the Morrissey and Elko River Accesses as parks. It also authorized a building and plumbing inspection agreement with the District of Sparwood and introduced amendments to fire and rescue service bylaws for Panorama and Edgewater.

• Approved grants for Columbia Lake Stewardship Society, Edgewater Recreation Society, Fairmont and District Lions Club, and Windermere District Historical Society
• Denied grant for Fernie Chamber of Commerce – Fernie Griz Days
• Designated Morrissey River Access as an Electoral Area A Park
• Designated Elko River Access as an Electoral Area B Park
• Authorized building and plumbing inspection agreement with District of Sparwood (Jan 1, 2024 to Dec 31, 2027)
• Introduced Amendment Bylaw No. 2, 2024 for Panorama Fire and Rescue Service Area
• Introduced Amendment Bylaw No. 4, 2024 for Edgewater Fire and Rescue Service Area
• Approved attendance for Directors at FCM, UBCM, and BC Rural Centre conferences

Central Services Committee

The Central Services Committee will consider the draft 2024-2028 Financial Plan, including requisition changes. Reports on the Central Emergency Program, Central Solid Waste, and Public Library Grants-in-Aid are also scheduled for discussion. No decisions are recorded; items are under review.

• Draft 2024-2028 Financial Plan Summary and revised requisition change
• Central Subregion Emergency Program information report
• Central Solid Waste information report
• Revised Public Library Grants-in-Aid Service information report

The committee adopted the meeting agenda and the minutes from the January 11, 2024 meeting. Members reviewed the draft 2024-2028 Five-year Financial Plan, but no formal decisions were recorded regarding the plan.

• Adopted meeting agenda (Carried)
• Adopted January 11, 2024 meeting minutes (Carried)

Governance and Regional Services Committee

The Governance & Regional Services Committee will review the draft 2024-2028 Five Year Financial Plan, including summaries and requisition changes. They will also hear a delegation from the City of Cranbrook regarding a social development coordinator and consider a funding request from the City of Cranbrook. A decision is required on the allocation of BC Hydro payment-in-lieu-of-taxes for the Aberfeldie Dam.

• Draft 2024-2028 Five Year Financial Plan summary and requisition change
• Delegation from City of Cranbrook - Social Development Coordinator
• Funding request from City of Cranbrook
• Elk Valley Mine Tax Sharing information report
• Decision required: Allocation of BC Hydro payment-in-lieu-of-taxes for Aberfeldie Dam

The committee approved $170,000 over two years to support a City of Cranbrook staff position focused on homelessness services. Additionally, $17,000 from a BC Hydro payment was allocated for improvements at Wycliffe Park and Wycliffe Exhibition Grounds.

• Approved $85,000 per year for 2024–2025 to the City of Cranbrook for a homelessness support staff position (Carried)
• Approved $17,000 allocation of BC Hydro payment-in-lieu-of-taxes for Wycliffe Park and Wycliffe Exhibition Grounds projects (Carried)

Electoral Area Services Committee

The committee is reviewing a draft 2024-2028 financial plan and a revised requisition change. Supporting information reports cover animal control, building inspection, Columbia Valley septage, electoral area administration, fireworks regulation, noise control, and nuisances and unsightly premises. No decisions are recorded; items are under discussion.

• Draft 2024-2028 Financial Plan Summary
• Revised 2024-2028 Financial Plan Requisition Change
• Animal Control information report
• Building Inspection information report
• Columbia Valley Septage information report

The Electoral Area Services Committee adopted its agenda and approved a motion to increase the 2024 requisition for Electoral Area Administration by $30,000 per year for 2024-2028 to fund rural aquifer studies. The motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 4:08pm.

• Approved agenda for the Electoral Area Services Committee meeting (carried)
• Approved increasing the 2024 Electoral Area Administration requisition by $30,000 per year for 2024-2028 for rural aquifer studies (carried)

Elk Valley Services Committee

The committee adopted the meeting agenda and the minutes from November 9, 2023. Members reviewed the draft 2024-2028 Five-year Financial Plan, but no formal decision was recorded on the plan.

• Adopted meeting agenda (Carried)
• Adopted November 9, 2023 meeting minutes (Carried)

Columbia Valley Services Committee

The Columbia Valley Services Committee will review the draft 2024-2028 financial plan and consider multiple funding requests from local organizations. Items include the Columbia Valley Emergency Program, Local Conservation Fund, Solid Waste, Broadband, Economic Development, Transit, Recreation, and Library Grants-in-Aid. The committee will also hear a delegation from the Columbia Valley Arts Council.

• Draft 2024-2028 Financial Plan review
• Funding request: Columbia Valley Housing Society
• Funding request: Columbia Valley Physician Recruitment
• Funding request: Invermere Public Library
• Funding request: Peaks Gymnastics

The Columbia Valley Services Committee approved multiple funding requests for 2024-2027, including a $210,000 grant for a new gymnastics building and annual grants for tourism, arts, and libraries. A proposed $50,000 grant for the Columbia Valley Housing Society was defeated, replaced by an approved $25,000 grant. The committee also approved funding for physician recruitment and airport operations.

• Agenda adopted (Carried)
• $50,000 grant to Columbia Valley Housing Society defeated
• $25,000 grant to Columbia Valley Housing Society approved (Carried)
• $100,000/year grant to Tourism Radium approved (Carried)
• $15,000 grant for Physician Recruitment approved (Carried)
• $8,000 grant for Imagine Kootenay approved (Carried)
• $70,000-$77,500 annual grants to Airport Society approved (Carried)
• $12,000/year grant to Arts Council approved (Carried)

RDEK Board of Directors

The Regional District of East Kootenay Board of Directors is meeting to consider a delegation from NWP Coal Canada Ltd. about the Crown Mountain Coking Coal Project, along with numerous funding requests from Columbia Valley organizations and several land-use and planning bylaws. The board will also vote on adopting Bylaw No. 3291 (Revenue Anticipation Borrowing) and Bylaw No. 3290 (Columbia Valley Community Economic Development Advisory Commission Amendment).

• Delegation from NWP Coal Canada Ltd. on Crown Mountain Coking Coal Project
• Funding requests: Columbia Valley Housing Society, Tourism Radium, CV Physician Recruitment, Imagine Kootenay, CV Airport Society
• Bylaw No. 3291 Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw - three readings and adoption
• Bylaw No. 3290 Columbia Valley Community Economic Development Advisory Commission Amendment - three readings and adoption
• Planning bylaws: Baynes Lake OCP and zoning amendments (Bylaws 3272/3273), Columere zoning amendment (Bylaw 3267)

The RDEK Board approved a grant application for up to $180,000 for an emergency mobile reception centre and adopted a new Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw. The Board supported Teck Coal Ltd.'s application to expand a coal refuse facility in the Upper Elk Valley but refused a similar application from Power Paving Ltd. Several funding requests for housing, tourism, and economic development were referred to the 2024-2028 Financial Plan for future consideration.

• Approved grant application for up to $180,000 for East Kootenay Emergency Support Services Mobile Reception Centre
• Adopted Bylaw No. 3291 (Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw)
• Supported Teck Coal Ltd. ALR non-farm use application for Line Creek operation expansion
• Refused Power Paving Ltd. ALR non-farm use application in Fort Steele
• Approved $114,898 in total funding for seven Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund projects
• Approved $23,850 in Discretionary Grants-in-Aid for various community groups
• Granted Development Variance Permit No. 49-23 (Windermere North / Gibb) with conditions
• Refused Development Variance Permit No. 46-23 (Tie Lake / Wowchuk)

Columbia Valley Services Committee

The Columbia Valley Services Committee will hear delegations and consider funding requests from several organizations, including the Columbia Valley Housing Society, the Local Conservation Fund, and the Airport Society. The committee will also discuss passenger directed vehicles and Radium Transfer Station hours of operation. A bylaw to establish a Community Economic Development Advisory Commission will be introduced.

• Funding request from Columbia Valley Housing Society
• 2024 funding recommendations for Columbia Valley Local Conservation Fund Program
• Funding request from Valley Visitor Services (Tourism Radium)
• Funding request from Columbia Valley Airport Society
• Introduction of Bylaw No. 3290 for Columbia Valley Community Economic Development Advisory Commission

The committee approved funding for nine conservation projects and introduced an amendment to the Community Economic Development Advisory Commission Bylaw. Multiple funding requests for housing, tourism, physician recruitment, economic development, and airport services were referred to the 2024-2028 Financial Plan process.

• Approved funding for 7 conservation projects totaling $114,900 (Carried)
• Approved multi-year funding for 2 conservation projects totaling $22,200 (Carried)
• Referred Columbia Valley Housing Society funding request to 2024-2028 Financial Plan (Carried)
• Referred Tourism Radium Valley Visitor Services funding request to 2024-2028 Financial Plan (Carried)
• Referred Columbia Valley Physician Recruitment funding request to 2024-2028 Financial Plan (Carried)
• Referred Community Economic Development and Imagine Kootenay funding requests to 2024-2028 Financial Plan (Carried)
• Referred Columbia Valley Airport Society funding request to 2024-2028 Financial Plan (Carried)
• Introduced Bylaw No. 3290 to amend the Community Economic Development Advisory Commission Bylaw (Carried)

Governance and Regional Services Committee

The Governance and Regional Services Committee will discuss several items including a grant application for a mobile reception centre for emergency support services, a new policy on dealing with legal matters, and the cost distribution for a new RDEK administration building. They will also consider introducing a revenue anticipation borrowing bylaw and review the December 2023 cheque register.

• Community Emergency Preparedness Fund – East Kootenay Emergency Support Services - Mobile Reception Centre Project (grant application)
• RDEK New Administration Building - Cost Distribution (discussion)
• Bylaw No. 3291 – Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw (introduction)
• Dealing with Legal Matters Policy (discussion)
• Cheque Register - December 2023 (review)

The committee approved a grant application for up to $180,000 for an emergency support services project. It also adopted a new policy for dealing with legal matters and set the cost distribution for a new administration building.

• Approved grant application to UBCM for up to $180,000 for Mobile Reception Centre Project
• Adopted new Dealing with Legal Matters Policy and rescinded Resolution No. 39332
• Approved 50/50 funding split between general and electoral area administration for new administration building
• Approved December 2023 cheque register for $3,042,953.08
• Introduced Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Bylaw No. 3291, 2024

Planning and Development Services Committee

The Planning & Development Services Committee will hear 13 delegations on topics including land-use concerns, short-term rental policy, and several Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) applications. New business includes bylaw amendments, ALR applications, development variance permits, temporary use permits, and a Crown land referral. The committee will also adopt minutes and receive building and planning reports.

• Bylaw No. 3272 & 3273 (Baynes Lake/Zibin) amendments
• Teck Coal Ltd. ALR non-farm use application (Upper Elk Valley)
• Power Paving Ltd. ALR non-farm use application (Fort Steele)
• STR TUP No. 23-001 (Diamond B Ranch Road/Trochessett)
• Enterprise Renewables Crown land licence of occupation (Skookumchuk, McGinty Lake, Elko)

The committee approved several Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) and development variance applications while refusing a sand and gravel pit proposal and a solar energy investigation license. It also introduced two bylaws for a subdivision in Baynes Lake and postponed a short-term rental permit for further consultation.

• Introduced Bylaws No. 3272 and 3273 for Baynes Lake subdivision
• Supported Teck Coal Ltd ALR non-farm use application (Opposed: Director Gray)
• Refused Power Paving Ltd ALR non-farm use application
• Supported Walker and BC Hydro ALR subdivision applications
• Refused Development Variance Permit No. 46-23 (Tie Lake / Wowchuk)
• Granted DVP No. 49-23 (Windermere North / Gibb) with conditions (Opposed: Directors Fairbairn, Gray, Miller)
• Granted TUP No. 3-23 for food truck services in Panorama
• Refused Enterprise Renewables (2017) Ltd Crown Land Licence application (Opposed: Director Gray)

Electoral Area Services Committee

The Electoral Area Services Committee will consider discretionary grants-in-aid for January 2024, approve 2024-2025 Federation of Canadian Municipalities membership dues, and discuss attendance at the BC Broadband Conference.

• Discretionary Grants-in-Aid – January 2024 (applications from Columbia Valley Skating Club, East Kootenay Amateur Radio Club Society, FIRE Fernie Adaptive Snowsports, Invermere Film Festival, Wildsight Invermere, Wilmer Community Club)
• 2024-2025 Federation of Canadian Municipalities Membership Dues
• BC Broadband Conference - Attendance Approval

The Electoral Area Services Committee approved several discretionary grants-in-aid for community organizations and sports clubs. The committee also authorized payment for annual membership dues and conference attendance expenses.

• Approved grants for Columbia Valley Skating Club ($3,000), East Kootenay Amateur Radio Club Society ($1,150), Fernie Adaptive Snowsports ($2,000), Invermere Film Festival ($1,000), Wildsight Invermere ($1,000), and Wilmer Community Club ($15,000)
• Approved $4,710.65 for Federation of Canadian Municipalities membership dues
• Authorized Director Stan Doehle to attend the BC Broadband Conference in Richmond (April 23-25, 2024) with expenses paid

Central Services Committee

The Central Services Committee will meet to consider a report on vandalism at the Cranbrook Transfer Station. The agenda also includes adoption of minutes from a previous meeting and standard procedural items.

• Discussion of vandalism at the Cranbrook Transfer Station (item 8.1)
• Adoption of minutes from February 15, 2023 meeting

The Central Services Committee adopted the meeting agenda and the minutes from the February 15, 2023 meeting. It also approved a six-month temporary closure of the Reuse Shed at the Cranbrook Transfer Station due to vandalism.

• Adopted meeting agenda (carried)
• Adopted minutes from February 15, 2023 meeting (carried)
• Approved temporary six-month closure of the Reuse Shed at the Cranbrook Transfer Station (carried, opposed by Director Blissett)