Victoria public meetings in 2025

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The agenda for the Victoria meeting on 2025-12-23 contains no listed items. It appears to be a placeholder with no decisions or discussions recorded. No rezoning, contracts, ordinances, fee changes, or public hearings are noted.

Council (to follow COTW)

The City Council will review reports from the Committee of the Whole, including a draft five-year financial plan and several rezoning applications. Council is also considering an amendment to expand the Development Potential Tax Relief Eligibility Bylaw to all of downtown.

• 2026-2030 Draft Financial Plan
• Rezoning Application No. 00891 for 1555 Vancouver Street
• Rezoning Application No. 00884 for 1905 Cook Street and 1110/1112 Caledonia Avenue
• Amendment Bylaw No. 25-080 for Development Potential Tax Relief Eligibility
• Towing, Immobilizing, and Storing Fees Update

Council directed staff to reduce the 2026 operating budget by the amounts listed in column A, defer the Government Street Refresh capital project to 2027, and move the Multi‑modal Corridors project to the 2027 budget. It also approved a $70,000 grant endorsement for the Matullia Lands climate study, requested letters supporting the BC Rent Bank, and declined a rezoning application at 1555 Vancouver Street. Additional actions included suspending certain permit fees for 12 months and renewing the MRDT program for five years.

• Reduce 2026 operating budget by listed column A amounts (7‑2)
• Defer Government Street Refresh capital project to 2027 (7‑2)
• Shift Multi‑modal Corridors project to 2027 budget (7‑2)
• Add revenue amounts from column A to 2026 financial plan (unanimous)
• Decline Rezoning Application No. 00891 for 1555 Vancouver Street (7‑2)
• Endorse $70,000 grant for Matullia Lands climate study (unanimous)
• Request Mayor to write letters supporting BC Rent Bank (unanimous)
• Suspend certain permit fees for 12 months, funded from Development Stabilization Reserve (8‑1)

Council

The council will hold public hearings and vote on third‑reading motions to adopt heritage designation bylaws for properties at 646 Fisgard Street, 1466 Gladstone Avenue and 2407 Fernwood Road. The meeting also includes a series of public address requests on topics such as climate costs, community sauna, YMCA gym, and homelessness. Standard agenda items such as territorial acknowledgement, poetry, and approval of the agenda are also on the docket.

• Heritage Designation (646 Fisgard Street) Bylaw No. 25-036 – public hearing and third‑reading motion
• Heritage Designation (1466 Gladstone Avenue) Bylaw No. 25-064 – public hearing and third‑reading motion
• Heritage Designation (2407 Fernwood Road) Bylaw No. 25-073 – public hearing and third‑reading motion
• Public address request: Mike Manhas – The Forge (Construction Foundation of BC and Rewired Recovery Foundation)
• Public address request: Diana Smardon – Homelessness Solutions Now (Committee to End Homelessness)

The council unanimously approved the agenda and then gave third‑reading and adoption to three heritage designation bylaws: 646 Fisgard Street (Bylaw No. 25-036), 1466 Gladstone Avenue (Bylaw No. 25-064), and 2407 Fernwood Road (Bylaw No. 25-073). The meeting was adjourned unanimously. No other substantive motions were taken.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Heritage Designation (646 Fisgard Street) Bylaw No. 25-036 (unanimous)
• Adopted Heritage Designation (646 Fisgard Street) Bylaw No. 25-036 (unanimous)
• Approved Heritage Designation (1466 Gladstone Avenue) Bylaw No. 25-064 (unanimous)
• Adopted Heritage Designation (1466 Gladstone Avenue) Bylaw No. 25-064 (unanimous)
• Approved Heritage Designation (2407 Fernwood Road) Bylaw No. 25-073 (unanimous)
• Adopted Heritage Designation (2407 Fernwood Road) Bylaw No. 25-073 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will approve the agenda and consent items, then consider minutes from the November 6 meeting. It will hear a presentation on the Destination Greater Victoria MRDT agreement renewal and staff reports on the Cord Cover pilot program and a swim‑dock feasibility study. The body will discuss a rezoning, development permit, and heritage alteration for properties at 1909 Cook Street and 1110/1112 Caledonia Avenue. New business includes motions on hanging flower baskets and a request for the mayor to engage with the BC Legislature on the Professional Reliance Act Bill (M216).

• Rezoning Application No. 00884 and Development Permit with Variances No. 00298 for 1909 Cook St and 1110/1112 Caledonia Ave, plus Heritage Alteration Permit No. 00267
• Report back on implementation of the Cord Cover pilot program for EV charging cords on sidewalks
• Report back on feasibility of a public swim dock for the WAVE Prize application
• Council Member Motion to support Victoria's hanging flower basket program through financial contributions
• Council Member Motion requesting the mayor to correspond with the BC Legislature on the Professional Reliance Act Bill (M216)

The agenda was approved unanimously. The consent agenda approved the November 6 minutes and directed staff to extend the cord‑cover licensing pilot program. Council unanimously approved the five‑year renewal of the Provincial Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT) program and the continuation of Destination Greater Victoria as the designated recipient for 2027‑2031, pending a signed agreements.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• Minutes from Nov 6, 2025 approved (consent agenda)
• Staff directed to extend cord‑cover licensing pilot program (consent agenda)
• Five‑year MRDT program renewal approved (unanimous)
• Destination Greater Victoria approved as MRDT recipient for 2027‑2031 (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council meeting will consider a consent agenda that includes the Downtown Victoria Business Association 2026 budget, a covenant removal request for 1029 Queens Avenue, and a swim‑dock feasibility motion. Council will vote on multiple bylaws, notably an amendment expanding Development Potential Tax Relief Eligibility to all of downtown and bylaws that raise sanitary sewer, stormwater, water and solid‑waste fees. Additional items include a reserve‑fund bylaw, rezoning and heritage designation for 1132 Empress Avenue, and an update on rezoning and variance applications for 1516 Camosun Street and 1270/1286 Pandora Avenue.

• Amendment Bylaw to expand Development Potential Tax Relief Eligibility downtown (Bylaw No. 25-080)
• Adoption of bylaws increasing sanitary sewer, stormwater, water and solid‑waste fees (Bylaws No. 25-075, 25-076, 25-077)
• Bylaw establishing an Amenity Cost Charges Reserve Fund (Bylaw No. 25-074)
• Rezoning, development permit with variances, and heritage designation for 1132 Empress Avenue (Bylaws No. 25-009, 25-004)
• Update on rezoning and development permit variances for 1516 Camosun Street and 1270/1286 Pandora Avenue

The council approved its agenda and several consent‑agenda items, including the Downtown Victoria Business Association 2026 budget, removal of a covenant on 1029 Queens Avenue, and a feasibility study for a public swim dock. It supported liquor licence extensions for Lucky Bar and Glitch Bar, each passing 8‑1. The council voted 8‑1 to halt the Centennial Square Revitalization Project and reallocate the remaining $2 million to other community projects. An amendment to the Development Potential Tax Relief Eligibility Bylaw also passed 8‑1.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Downtown Victoria Business Association 2026 budget (consent agenda)
• Approved removal of covenant on 1029 Queens Avenue (consent agenda)
• Approved swim dock feasibility study for WAVE Prize (consent agenda)
• Supported Lucky Bar liquor licence extension to 2 am Sundays (8‑1)
• Supported Glitch Bar liquor primary licence with conditions (8‑1)
• Halted Centennial Square Revitalization Project and redirected $2 M (8‑1)
• Adopted amendment to Development Potential Tax Relief Eligibility Bylaw (8‑1)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review the 2026 Greater Victoria Public Library budget and consider motions to either halt or proceed with the Centennial Square Revitalization Project. The body will also discuss updating towing fees and the potential suspension of various permit fees.

• Greater Victoria Public Library 2026 Budget presentation
• Motions to halt or proceed with the Centennial Square Revitalization Project
• Proposed increase to maximum fees for towing, immobilizing, and storing vehicles
• Motion to suspend building, inspection, plumbing, rezoning, and development permit fees
• Motion regarding provincial funding for the B.C. Rent Bank

The Committee of the Whole approved an amendment halting the Centennial Square Revitalization Project and redirecting the remaining $2 million to the Crystal Pool project or improvements at Royal Athletic Park (vote 8‑1). Council also directed staff to draft a public‑notice bylaw using alternative methods, which passed 8‑1. In addition, the council unanimously requested the mayor write letters to provincial and federal officials to secure multi‑year funding for the B.C. Rent Bank.

• Halt Centennial Square Revitalization and reallocate $2 M (8‑1)
• Direct staff to prepare public‑notice bylaw (8‑1)
• Request mayor to write letters for BC Rent Bank funding (unanimous)
• Amend Towing and Immobilizing Companies Bylaw to align with BC regulation (unanimous)
• Delegate “low impact” liquor license referrals to staff (defeated 4‑5)
• Prepare bylaw amendments to delegate liquor license referrals (7‑2)

Special Committee of the Whole

The Special Committee of the Whole will receive a report introducing the Draft 2026‑2030 Financial Plan, which outlines the resources needed to deliver city services, programs, initiatives, and capital infrastructure renewal. Committee members will review the plan and its supporting appendices, including reductions, reserve‑fund policies, grant information, and budget implications for community safety and wellbeing. No other items are listed for decision at this meeting.

• Review of Draft 2026‑2030 Financial Plan
• Appendix A – 2026 Reductions incorporated into the plan
• Appendix B – New options for reductions
• Appendix C – Financial sustainability policy, reserve fund, revenue and tax policy
• Appendix H – Direct‑award and other grants

The Special Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda by unanimous vote. The committee also unanimously adjourned the meeting at 2:07 p.m. No formal decisions were made on the draft 2026‑2030 Financial Plan or other discussion items.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss a rezoning application for a cannabis retailer and review the Council Member Code of Conduct. The meeting also includes a design update for the Centennial Square Revitalization Project and a motion regarding bail reform.

• Rezoning Application No. 00891 for 1555 Vancouver Street to allow a storefront cannabis retailer (staff recommend declining)
• Review and update of the Code of Conduct for Council Members
• Design update for the Centennial Square Revitalization Project
• Endorsement of partnership for FCM Adaptation in Action Fund
• Council Member Motion regarding bail reform for chronic repeat non-violent offenders

The Committee of the Whole approved its agenda and endorsed a $70,000 climate‑adaptation grant. It declined a rezoning application for 1555 Vancouver Street and instructed the City Solicitor to draft Code of Conduct bylaw amendments. The council also approved a request for the mayor to write letters to the federal and provincial governments on bail reform and to forward copies to FCM and UBCM.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• Endorsed $70,000 grant for Matullia Lands climate study (unanimous)
• Declined rezoning application No. 00891 for 1555 Vancouver Street (7‑2)
• Instructed City Solicitor to draft Code of Conduct Bylaw amendments (unanimous)
• Received Centennial Square Revitalization Project design update for information (unanimous)
• Requested mayor write bail‑reform letters to federal and provincial governments and forward copies to FCM and UBCM (7‑1)

Council (to follow COTW)

Victoria City Council is meeting to discuss the 2026-2030 Draft Financial Plan and a Corporate Plan progress update. The body will consider bylaws to increase various utility and waste fees for 2026 and establish a new reserve fund for amenity cost charges.

• Bylaws to increase 2026 connection fees and consumption charges for water, sanitary sewer, stormwater, and solid waste
• Bylaw No. 25-074 to establish an Amenity Cost Charges Reserve Fund
• 2026-2030 Draft Financial Plan
• Update on development permit with variances for 1516 Camosun Street and 1270 and 1286 Pandora Avenue
• 2026 Council and Committee Meeting Schedule

The council unanimously approved the agenda and the 2026 Council and Committee meeting schedule. It gave first, second and third readings to the Sanitary Sewer and Stormwater Utilities Bylaw No. 25-075, the Solid Waste Bylaw No. 25-076, and the Waterworks Bylaw No. 25-077. The Amenity Cost Charges Reserve Fund Bylaw No. 25-074 and related policy amendments were also approved. The rezoning application for 1516 Camosun Street and 1270/1286 Pandora Avenue was referred to the Dec 4 Council meeting.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Council and Committee meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Approved first, second, third readings of Sanitary Sewer and Stormwater Utilities Bylaw No. 25-075 (unanimous)
• Approved first, second, third readings of Solid Waste Bylaw No. 25-076 (unanimous)
• Approved first, second, third readings of Waterworks Bylaw No. 25-077 (unanimous)
• Approved first, second, third readings of Amenity Cost Charges Reserve Fund Bylaw No. 25-074 and reserve fund policy amendments (unanimous)
• Referred rezoning application for 1516 Camosun St and Pandora Ave to Dec 4 Council meeting (unanimous)

Special Committee of the Whole

The Special Committee of the Whole will receive a report introducing the Draft 2026‑2030 Financial Plan, which outlines the resources required to continue delivering city services, programs and capital infrastructure renewal. The agenda lists the plan and thirteen supporting appendices covering reductions, grant information, reserve fund policies and asset management. This item is presented as unfinished business for the committee's consideration.

• 2026‑2030 Draft Financial Plan report
• Appendix A – 2026 Reductions incorporated into the Draft Financial Plan
• Appendix B – New options for reductions
• Appendix C – Financial Sustainability Policy, Reserve Fund, Revenue and Tax Policy
• Appendix H – Direct‑award and other grants

The Special Committee of the Whole approved a reduction to the 2026 operating budget, cutting $600,000 in contracted services duplication, $300,000 in planned overtime, and $1,576,370 in service reviews, among other items (vote 6‑3). It also deferred the $4.7 million Government Street Refresh capital project to 2027 and moved the $8.55 million Multi‑modal Corridors project into the 2027 budget (unanimous). Additional motions approved added revenue sources, limited infrastructure budget growth, and directed staff to report on city memberships and council expense reimbursements.

• Reduce 2026 operating budget by listed amounts (6‑3)
• Defer Government Street Refresh capital project to 2027 (unanimous)
• Include Multi‑modal Corridors capital project in 2027 budget (unanimous)
• Add revenue amounts (cost recovery $914,490, Boulevard Tax $52,000, VCC $100,000) to 2026 financial plan (unanimous)
• Reduce infrastructure budget increase to $4 M and allocate NMC tax revenue over $1 M to capital budget (7‑2)
• Staff to explore and report on city memberships and possible reductions (unanimous)
• Refer council reimbursement limits and per‑diem policy to Dec 11 Committee of the Whole meeting (8‑1)
• Adjourn the Special Committee of the Whole meeting (unanimous)

Special Committee of the Whole

The Special Committee of the Whole will consider the Draft 2026‑2030 Financial Plan, which outlines resources needed for services, programs, initiatives, and capital infrastructure renewal. The agenda includes a report and thirteen appendices covering reductions, budget implications, asset management, and grant information. No other items are scheduled for discussion.

• Report: 2026‑2030 Draft Financial Plan
• Appendix A – 2026 Reductions incorporated into the Draft Financial Plan
• Appendix B – New Options for Reductions
• Appendix E – Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan Budget Implications
• Appendix H – Direct‑award and Other Grants

The Special Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It voted to delete numerous items from the 2026‑2030 Draft Financial Plan, including the $162.2 million Crystal Pool Replacement project. Several funding cuts and reallocations were approved or defeated, and staff were directed to bring forward specific budget items and bylaws for future consideration.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Removed $162.2 M Crystal Pool Replacement from Draft Financial Plan (unanimous)
• Approved $448,000 Bike Vault funding request (unanimous)
• Defeated elimination of OUR DWTN funding $945,200 (unanimous)
• Carried elimination of Canada Day funding $217,800 (unanimous)
• Carried elimination of Cameron Bandshell programming funding $146,500 (6‑3)
• Reduced OUR DWTN funding to $750,000 (6‑3)
• Directed staff to include $8.55 M Multi‑modal Corridors in 2027 budget (8‑1)

Council (to follow COTW)

The council will approve the agenda and consent items, review reports from recent Committee of the Whole meetings, and consider a rezoning application for 530 Chatham St and several Store Street parcels, including related Official Community Plan amendments. Motions on a James Bay heritage conservation area and continued tanker ban will also be discussed.

• Consent agenda: minutes from the Oct 16, 2025 council meeting
• 2026 Draft Budget Public Engagement Summary Report
• Report on Affordable Rental Housing Revitalization Tax Exemption Program
• Council motion to designate James Bay neighbourhood as a Heritage Conservation Area
• Council motion to support continued tanker ban

The council added several grant and program allocations to the 2026 Draft Financial Plan, totaling about $1.07 million. It also directed staff to study a heritage conservation area for James Bay and asked the mayor to advocate for the continuation of the oil tanker ban. All motions were carried with the vote counts recorded in the minutes.

• Growing in the City Grants $75,000 – Carried (6 to 3)
• Pro Art Alliance $8,000 – Carried (7 to 2)
• Youth bus pass program $630,000 – Carried unanimously
• My Great Neighbourhood Grants $100,000 – Carried unanimously
• South Island Prosperity Partnership $242,000 – Carried (8 to 1)
• James Bay neighbourhood heritage study motion – Carried unanimously
• Advocacy for continued tanker ban motion – Carried unanimously
• Butler Book Prize and Children’s Book Prize $10,000 – Carried (8 to 1)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review 2026 budget presentations for the Victoria Police and the Downtown Victoria Business Association. The meeting also includes decisions on liquor licence applications and a request to remove a property covenant.

• Victoria Police 2026 Budget presentation
• Downtown Victoria Business Association 2026 Budget presentation
• Liquor licence application for 517 Yates Street (Lucky Bar) to extend Sunday hours to 2 a.m.
• Liquor licence application for 759 Yates Street (Glitch Bar) for a new primary licence
• Request to remove a covenant at 1029 Queens Avenue

The Committee of the Whole approved the Downtown Victoria Business Association’s 2026 budget and directed staff to pursue a feasibility study for a public swim dock in the Gorge Waterway. Council voted to support the Lucky Bar’s request to extend Sunday liquor service to 2 a.m. and to grant a new primary liquor licence to Glitch Bar at 759 Yates Street. A motion to remove the housing covenant at 1029 Queens Avenue was also approved.

• Approved Downtown Victoria Business Association 2026 budget (unanimous)
• Supported Lucky Bar liquor licence extension (6‑3)
• Approved Glitch Bar new primary liquor licence (8‑1)
• Removed housing covenant at 1029 Queens Avenue (unanimous)
• Directed staff to assess feasibility of a public swim dock in the Gorge Waterway (unanimous)
• Referred hanging flower basket program to Dec 11, 2025 Committee of the Whole (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and consent agenda items (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss the continuation of a tax relief program for specific industrial and business properties. The meeting also includes reports on provincial housing targets and the 2024–2026 Corporate Plan.

• Development Potential Tax Relief Pilot Program report regarding 2026 continuation for Class 5 and Class 6 properties
• Council Member Motion to alter the Council Remuneration Bylaw to maintain the Mayor's remuneration
• Progress Report Period Two on Provincial Housing Targets (homes built Oct 1, 2024 to Sept 30, 2025)
• Proposed 2026 Council and Committee meeting schedule
• Corporate Plan Progress Update for the 2024–2026 plan

The council approved its agenda and the 2026 meeting schedule. It adopted motions to receive the provincial housing targets report and to have staff include council housing approval data. It approved a Development Potential Tax Relief pilot for eligible downtown properties, setting a 50% reduced tax rate up to $925,000 and adding reporting requirements. A motion to amend the Council Remuneration Bylaw was defeated.

• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved the 2026 Council and Committee meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Adopted motion to receive the Provincial Housing Targets Progress Report and direct staff to include council housing approval data (unanimous)
• Approved Corporate Plan Progress Update for information and directed staff to report on municipal waste utility options (8‑1)
• Approved Development Potential Tax Relief Pilot Program: 50% reduced tax rate up to $925,000, added regional shopping centres as ineligible, required property declarations by Feb 13 2026, directed bylaws, requested mayor’s letter, amended Schedule A, and referred to council (8‑1)
• Defeated motion to alter the Council Remuneration Bylaw 2024 (3‑6)

Council (to follow COTW)

Victoria City Council is reviewing several heritage designation bylaws and housing agreements. The meeting includes a progress report on provincial housing targets and decisions on specific development permits and rezoning applications.

• Heritage designation bylaws for 646 Fisgard Street, 1466 Gladstone Avenue, and 2407 Fernwood Road
• Amendment to housing agreement for a 40-unit residential building at 2558 Quadra Street to secure affordable units
• Rezoning and heritage alteration permit for Duck's Block (1312-1324 Broad Street and 615-625 Johnson Street) to increase density
• Development permits for 3106 Washington Avenue to create four new single-family dwellings with secondary suites
• Progress Report Period Three on Provincial Housing Targets

The council adopted the Development Potential Tax Relief Pilot Program, providing up to $925,000 of tax relief at a rate 50% lower for eligible properties (8‑1). It also approved several heritage designations and related bylaws, and adopted amendments to housing and zoning bylaws. Additional permits and variances for specific development sites were authorized unanimously.

• Approved Development Potential Tax Relief Pilot Program with tax relief up to $925,000 and eligibility rules (8-1)
• Rescinded previous heritage Statement of Significance for 646 Fisgard Street (unanimous)
• Approved new heritage Statement of Significance for 646 Fisgard Street (unanimous)
• Adopted Heritage Designation Bylaws for 1466 Gladstone Ave and 2407 Fernwood Rd (unanimous, consent agenda)
• Adopted Amendment Bylaw for 2558 Quadra Street Housing Agreement (unanimous)
• Adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 25-039 for 1312‑1324 Broad St and 615‑625 Johnson St (unanimous)
• Authorized Heritage Alteration Permit with variances for 1314 Broad Street (unanimous)
• Authorized Development Permit and Development Variance Permit for 3106 Washington Avenue (unanimous)

Council

The City Council is holding an open house featuring 10-minute presentations from various local societies and organizations. No legislative decisions or policy votes are listed on the agenda.

• Presentations from Silver Threads, The Other Guise Theatre Society, and Community Social Planning Council of Greater Victoria
• Presentations from Cook Street Village Activity Centre Society and Fernwood Community and Arts Association
• Presentations from Vancouver Island South Film & Media Commission and Fernwood Neighbourhood Resource Group
• Presentations from Victoria Heritage Foundation and South Island Prosperity Partnership
• Presentations from Intrepid Theatre, Victoria Civic Heritage Trust, Volunteer Victoria, and Restorative Justice Victoria

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda and later unanimously voted to adjourn the meeting at 8:47 p.m. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:47 p.m. (unanimous)

Special Committee of the Whole

The Special Committee of the Whole is meeting to review the Draft 2026-2030 Financial Plan. This plan outlines the resources needed for city services, programs, initiatives, and capital infrastructure renewal.

• Review of 2026-2030 Draft Financial Plan
• Discussion of 2026 reductions and new options for reductions
• Review of Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan budget implications
• Examination of Financial Sustainability Policy, Reserve Fund, Revenue and Tax Policy
• Review of grants and permissive tax exemptions comparison 2024

The agenda was approved unanimously. Council directed staff to add back a series of items to the Draft 2026‑2030 Financial Plan, including grants, programs and infrastructure. Each item was voted on individually, with some approved and others defeated.

• Approved $75,000 Growing in the City Grants (5-4)
• Approved $8,000 Pro Art Alliance (7-2)
• Approved $630,000 Youth bus pass program (unanimous)
• Approved $100,000 My Great Neighbourhood Grants (unanimous)
• Defeated $5,000 Theatre SKAM (4-5)
• Approved $10,000 Butler Book Prize (8-1)
• Defeated $1,100,000 Operational Adjustment for Medical Emergency Services (unanimous)
• Approved $8,000 Poet Laureate and Y outh Poet Laureate (7-2)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will approve the agenda, adopt minutes from three prior meetings, and consider unfinished business on Island Health’s “The Harbour” safe consumption site. Staff will report on the Affordable Rental Housing Revitalization Tax Exemption Program and its one‑year assessment. New business includes motions to halt the Centennial Square Revitalization Project, examine a heritage designation for the James Bay neighbourhood, advocate for the continued oil tanker ban, and update the Council Remuneration Bylaw.

• Motion to halt the Centennial Square Revitalization Project and reallocate its grant funding
• Motion to study designating James Bay neighbourhood as a Heritage Conservation Area
• Motion to request mayoral advocacy for continued oil tanker ban
• Motion to amend the Council Remuneration Bylaw for CPI‑based mayoral adjustments and end acting mayor payments
• Staff report on the Affordable Rental Housing Revitalization Tax Exemption Program with a one‑year assessment

The committee approved the meeting agenda and consent items, including a unanimous motion to ask the province and federal government to continue the oil tanker ban. A motion to force Island Health to close its safe consumption site was defeated 2‑to‑7. The council unanimously adopted amendments to the Affordable Rental Housing Revitalization Tax Exemption bylaw and directed the mayor to write to federal housing officials about using program savings in loan underwriting.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• Consent agenda items approved, including tanker‑ban advocacy motion (unanimous)
• Minutes from September 18, October 2 and October 9, 2025 approved (consent agenda)
• Safe Consumption Site closure motion defeated (2‑to‑7)
• Amended housing bylaw to reduce median‑income unit timeframe to 20 years, add non‑profit co‑ops, and allow conversion of market projects (unanimous)
• Director of Planning directed to report on RTE impacts by end of 2026 (unanimous)
• Mayor instructed to write to federal housing ministers and CMHC about using RTE savings in loan underwriting (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

Victoria City Council will discuss several housing agreements to secure rental units and a business license appeal for a short-term rental. The meeting also includes reports on winter weather response and the SOLID Access Hub program.

• Amendment Bylaw for 2558 Quadra Street to secure affordable or below market rental units for a 40-unit building
• Housing Agreements for 1400 Fairfield Road and 349-351 Kipling Street to secure 15 rental units
• Housing Agreement for 937 View Street to secure 266 dwelling units as rental in perpetuity
• Short-Term Rental Business License Appeal for 504-517 Fisgard Street
• Council Member Motion to halt the Centennial Square Revitalization Project

Special Committee of the Whole

The Special Committee of the Whole will consider a motion to close the meeting to the public under Section 90 of the Community Charter for labour‑relations matters. Council will also review the staff report on the 2026 Draft Budget public‑engagement results. Routine items include a territorial acknowledgement, introduction of late items, and approval of the agenda.

• Motion to close the meeting to the public under Section 90 (labour relations)
• Staff Report: 2026 Draft Budget Public Engagement Summary Report (with multiple attachments)
• Territorial acknowledgement
• Introduction of late items
• Approval of agenda

The committee approved its agenda and voted unanimously to hold a closed portion of the meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter. The meeting was extended twice, first to 12:30 p.m. and then to 12:45 p.m., both motions passing unanimously. Council received the 2026 Draft Budget Public Engagement Summary Report and directed staff to move to biennial budget polling with equity‑seeking organizations starting in 2027 and to keep an annual written public input opportunity.

• Agenda approved – carried unanimously
• Closed meeting under Section 90 (labour relations) – carried unanimously
• Meeting extended to 12:30 p.m. – carried unanimously
• Meeting extended to 12:45 p.m. – carried unanimously
• Receive 2026 Draft Budget Public Engagement Summary Report – carried unanimously
• Direct staff to transition to biennial budget polling with equity‑seeking organizations starting 2027 – carried unanimously
• Direct staff to continue annual written public input on the financial plan per section 166 – carried unanimously

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to receive a report from SOLID regarding the outcomes of its Access Hub Program. The report covers the period of the program that was directly funded by the City.

• SOLID Access Hub Program Report on outcomes for the period of City funding

The Committee approved its agenda unanimously. The SOLID Access Hub Program Report was received for information. Council unanimously directed the Mayor to share the report with Island Health, the provincial ministries of housing and health, and the Premier’s Office. The meeting was adjourned at 10:33 a.m.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• SOLID Access Hub Program Report received for information (unanimous)
• Council directed Mayor to share report with Island Health, housing and health ministries, and Premier's Office (unanimous)
• Committee adjourned at 10:33 a.m. (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

Victoria City Council is reviewing housing agreements to secure rental units in perpetuity at three different locations. The body will also consider a permissive tax exemption bylaw for 2026-2028 and various administrative motions.

• Housing Agreement for 937 View Street to secure 266 rental units in perpetuity
• Housing Agreements for 1400 Fairfield Road and 349-350 Kipling Street to secure 15 rental units, including two below-market units
• Adoption of Tax Exemption (Permissive) Bylaw, 2026-2028, No. 25-059
• Liquor Licence Application for 506 Herald Street (Herald Street Brew Pub)
• Heritage Alteration Permit Application No. 00272 for 700 Government Street (Lower Causeway)

The council unanimously approved the agenda and removed the 937 View Street housing agreement from the consent agenda. It approved several consent‑agenda items, including a liquor licence for 506 Herald Street, a heritage alteration permit for 700 Government Street, support for the UBCM Strategic Priorities Fund, a full‑disclosure remuneration report, and adding National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to bylaws. The council also passed three housing‑agreement bylaws (Fairfield Road, Kipling Street, and 937 View Street) and adopted a permissive tax‑exemption bylaw, then voted unanimously to hold the remainder of the meeting closed to the public.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• Removed F.2 – Bylaw for 937 View Street housing agreement from Consent Agenda
• Supported 506 Herald Street liquor licence (consent agenda)
• Authorized Heritage Alteration Permit for 700 Government Street (consent agenda)
• Approved housing‑agreement bylaws for 1400 Fairfield Road and 349‑351 Kipling Street (consent agenda)
• Approved Housing Agreement Bylaw for 937 View Street (7‑2)
• Adopted Tax Exemption (Permissive) Bylaw 2026‑2028 (7‑0)
• Motion to close the meeting to the public carried unanimously

Council (to follow COTW)

The council will consider a rezoning and development permit for 205 Quebec Street, 507 Montreal Street, and 210‑224 Kingston Street, which would allow higher density mixed‑use construction. It will also review and potentially adopt tax exemption bylaws for 2026‑2028 and for the heritage building at 1050 Pandora Avenue. Additional items include the 2025 External Audit Plan, a motion affirming enforcement priorities with VicPD, and an appeal on a short‑term rental licence for 316‑29 Songhees Road.

• Rezoning and Development Permit for 205 Quebec St, 507 Montreal St, 210‑224 Kingston St (Application No. 00804 / 00191)
• Tax Exemption (Permissive) Bylaw for 2026‑2028 (Bylaw No. 25‑059)
• Tax Exemption Bylaw for 1050 Pandora Avenue heritage building (Bylaw No. 24‑068)
• 2025 External Audit Plan (Committee of the Whole report)
• Short‑Term Rental Business Licence Appeal for 316‑29 Songhees Road

The council denied a request to reconsider a short‑term rental licence denial for 316‑29 Songhees Road (7‑1). It also referred a rezoning application for several downtown streets back to staff (6‑3) and approved two tax‑exemption bylaws, one for 2026‑2028 (7‑0) and one for 1050 Pandora Avenue (unanimous). The meeting was closed to the public under Community Charter sections 90(1)(e), 90(1)(f) and 90(2)(b).

• Referred rezoning and development permit for 205 Quebec St, 507 Montreal St, 210‑224 Kingston St back to staff (6‑3)
• Approved Tax Exemption (Permissive) Bylaw 2026‑2028 No. 25‑059 (7‑0)
• Adopted Tax Exemption (1050 Pandora Ave) Bylaw No. 24‑068 (unanimous)
• Denied reconsideration request for short‑term rental licence at 316‑29 Songhees Rd (7‑1)
• Closed part of the meeting to the public under Community Charter sections 90(1)(e), 90(1)(f) and 90(2)(b) (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will approve the meeting agenda and consider the consent agenda items, which include minutes from the September 4 and September 11, 2025 meetings. A staff report on the 2025‑2026 Emergency Winter Weather Response Planning will be presented and discussed. The committee will also conduct a scheduled "Shakeout" exercise at 10:16 AM and consider any notice of motions before adjourning.

• Approval of agenda
• Consent agenda: minutes from Committee of the Whole meetings on Sep 4 2025 and Sep 11 2025
• Staff report: Update on 2025/2026 Emergency Winter Weather Response Planning
• "Shakeout" exercise scheduled for 10:16 AM
• Notice of motions

The Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda minutes from September 4 and 11, 2025 without dissent. Council received and approved the staff report on the 2025/26 Emergency Weather Response Plan. The meeting was adjourned at 10:21 a.m. unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Sep 4 2025 (consent agenda, unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Sep 11 2025 (consent agenda, unanimous)
• Received and approved 2025/26 Emergency Weather Response Plan report (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:21 a.m. (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing land use applications for two downtown locations. Members are also discussing motions regarding council financial disclosure and the recognition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in city bylaws.

• Liquor license application for 506 Herald Street for a 14-person boulevard patio and 24-person rear yard deck
• Heritage Alteration Permit No. 00272 for 700 Government Street to replace a fence and signage with five interpretive panels
• Motion for an annual public financial disclosure report on total council remuneration starting with 2024
• Motion to recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as a holiday in the Noise Bylaw and other bylaws
• Motion of support for the Union of BC Municipalities Strategic Priorities Fund grant management

Council directed staff to prepare and publish an annual public financial disclosure report beginning with the 2024 calendar year, detailing council members' compensation and appointments. The motion passed after several amendments with a 6‑to‑2 vote. Earlier, the council also approved a liquor licence for Herald Street Brew Works, a heritage alteration permit for 700 Government Street, added National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to the Noise Bylaw, and acknowledged the UBCM Strategic Priorities Fund grant management.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved liquor licence for Herald Street Brew Works (unanimous)
• Approved Heritage Alteration Permit for 700 Government Street (unanimous)
• Added National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to Noise Bylaw (unanimous)
• Acknowledged UBCM Strategic Priorities Fund grant‑management requirement (unanimous)
• Approved annual public financial disclosure report, 6‑to‑2

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council meeting on October 9, 2025 will follow the Committee of the Whole meeting. Council will review reports, including a report from the September 18, 2025 Committee of the Whole that contains Heritage Designation Application No. 000216 for 2407 Fernwood Road. The agenda also includes standard items such as a consent agenda, reports of committees, and notice of motions.

• Heritage Designation Application No. 000216 for 2407 Fernwood Road (Fernwood)
• Report from the September 18, 2025 Committee of the Whole Meeting (PDF attached)
• Consent agenda
• Reports of committees
• Notice of motions

The council unanimously approved the heritage statement of significance for the property at 2407 Fernwood Road. It instructed the Director of Planning and Development to draft a Heritage Designation Bylaw for the site. The council also directed that the first and second readings of the bylaw be considered and that a public hearing date be set.

• Approved heritage statement of significance for 2407 Fernwood Road (unanimous)
• Instructed Planning and Development to prepare Heritage Designation Bylaw for the property (unanimous)
• Directed first and second readings of the bylaw to be considered and a public hearing date set (unanimous)

Council

The council is meeting to hear from several residents and organizations regarding community concerns. The agenda consists primarily of requests to address the council and procedural items.

• Community safety at Amelia & Pandora St
• Proposal for Accessible Parking Reform
• Affordable tourism accommodations
• PVC pollution in roadway construction
• Housing for homelessness and Insite consumption

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda. No substantive motions or policy decisions were taken. The meeting was then unanimously adjourned at 7:08 p.m.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• Meeting adjourned (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will approve the meeting agenda and consider the consent agenda, which includes minutes from the July 31, 2025 meeting. A presentation will be given on the 2025 External Audit Plan prepared by BDO Canada LLP. The body will discuss a new Council Member Motion that affirms the city’s enforcement‑related priorities in collaboration with the Victoria Police Department.

• Approval of agenda
• Consent agenda: Minutes from the Committee of the Whole meeting held July 31, 2025
• Presentation of the 2025 External Audit Plan (BDO Canada LLP)
• Council Member Motion: affirming the City’s enforcement‑related priorities with VicPD
• Closed meeting, if required

The Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda and the July 31, 2025 minutes. Council accepted the 2025 external audit plan report for information. Council unanimously affirmed that enhanced foot and bike patrols and collaboration with Bylaw Services are a key priority for downtown community policing, as outlined in the 2025 Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan. An attempted amendment adding unrelated language was ruled out of order and the ruling was upheld by an 8‑to‑0 vote.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved July 31, 2025 Committee of the Whole minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted 2025 External Audit Plan report for information (unanimous)
• Affirmed downtown community policing priorities, including enhanced foot and bike patrols (unanimous)
• Ruled amendment adding unrelated language out of order; vote 8‑0 upheld

Council (to follow COTW)

The council will approve the agenda and consent agenda items, including minutes from July 10 and July 31 council meetings. It will review reports from the Committee of the Whole and consider motions on a municipal lobbyist registry and disclosure of affiliation when addressing council. A key agenda item is the liquor licence application for 721 Government Street (Fairmont Empress) in the downtown area. The meeting also includes closed‑session items under Community Charter Section 90 covering personal information, intergovernmental relations, law enforcement and employee relations.

• Liquor licence application for 721 Government Street (Fairmont Empress) – Downtown
• Council member motion to explore a municipal registry of lobbyists
• Council member motion on disclosure of affiliation when addressing council
• Consent agenda: minutes from the July 10 and July 31 council meetings
• Closed‑session items: appointments, intergovernmental relations/law enforcement, and employee relations under Community Charter Section 90

The council unanimously approved the agenda and consent agenda items, including minutes from July meetings. It unanimously supported the Fairmont Empress Hotel’s request for a new outdoor patio liquor licence with a 779‑person capacity and extended hours. A motion to study a municipal lobbyist registry passed 7‑1, and a motion requiring speakers to disclose affiliations also passed 7‑1. The meeting was closed to the public and the closed agenda approved unanimously.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• Consent agenda minutes from July 10 and July 31 approved (unanimous)
• Supported Fairmont Empress outdoor patio liquor licence with conditions (unanimous)
• Directed legal staff to investigate a municipal lobbyist registry (7 to 1)
• Required speakers to disclose affiliations when addressing council (7 to 1)
• Closed part of the meeting to the public under Section 90 (unanimous)
• Closed agenda approved (unanimous)
• Meeting adjourned at 11:30 a.m. (unanimous)

Special Council

The Special Council will hold a public hearing and consider adoption of several bylaws related to the Official Community Plan update. Items include the new Official Community Plan Bylaw 2025, amendments to the Zoning Bylaw 2018 and the Zoning Regulation Bylaw, and adoption of the Rezoning and Development Policy (2025) and the updated Downtown Core Area Plan. The council will also consider rescinding listed guidelines and policies.

• Adopt Official Community Plan Bylaw, 2025 (No. 25-045)
• Amend Zoning Bylaw 2018 (No. 25-038)
• Amend Zoning Regulation Bylaw (No. 25-051)
• Adopt Rezoning and Development Policy (2025)
• Adopt Downtown Core Area Plan (updated 2025)

The council gave third‑reading and adopted the Official Community Plan Bylaw 2025, the Zoning Bylaw 2018 amendment, the Zoning Regulation Bylaw amendment and several other bylaws. It also approved the 2025 Rezoning and Development Policy and the updated Downtown Core Area Plan. Several proposed amendments to the plan for James Bay and a motion to postpone the bylaws were defeated. The council rescinded a set of previously adopted guidelines and policies.

• Adopt Official Community Plan Bylaw 2025, Zoning Bylaw 2018 amendment, Zoning Regulation Bylaw amendment (5‑3)
• Adopt Amenity Cost Charges Bylaw 2025, Ticket Bylaw amendment, Bylaw Notice Adjudication amendment, Tenant Protection During Redevelopment Bylaw, Affordable Housing Standards Bylaw amendment, Land Use Procedures Bylaw amendment (5‑3)
• Approve Rezoning and Development Policy (2025) and Downtown Core Area Plan (2011, updated 2025) (5‑3)
• Rescind guidelines, plans and policies listed in the attachment titled "Documents to be Rescinded" (unanimous)
• Add bullet supporting 1,500 new hotel rooms by 2035 to the Official Community Plan (unanimous)
• Defeat amendment to Figure 6 (James Bay map) (2‑6)
• Defeat amendment to designate James Bay as a Heritage Conservation District (4‑4)
• Defeat motion to postpone consideration of the bylaws (2‑6)

Special Council

The Special Council will continue a public hearing on the Official Community Plan 10‑Year Update and consider three bylaws: a new Official Community Plan Bylaw 2025, an amendment to the Zoning Bylaw 2018, and an amendment to the Zoning Regulation Bylaw. The council will also vote on adopting the Rezoning and Development Policy (2025) and the updated Downtown Core Area Plan (2011, updated 2025). Additional bylaws covering amenity cost charges, ticketing, adjudication, tenant protection, affordable housing standards, and land‑use procedures are also on the agenda.

• Adopt Official Community Plan Bylaw, 2025 (No. 25‑045)
• Amend Zoning Bylaw 2018 (No. 25‑038) to align with the new OCP
• Amend Zoning Regulation Bylaw (No. 25‑051) to reference the new OCP
• Approve Rezoning and Development Policy (2025)
• Approve Downtown Core Area Plan (2011, updated 2025)

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda. It then adjourned the meeting by unanimous vote. No other motions were approved, denied, or tabled during this special council session.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council will consider a motion to close part of the September 18, 2025 meeting under Community Charter Section 90, citing labour relations, land acquisition, and solicitor‑client privilege. The council will also review reports from the Committee of the Whole on Transforming City Parking and a Single Egress Stairway motion, and discuss a Council Member motion for the BreakOut West Canadian Music Festival and Conference. Additional items include legal advice and labour/land matters referenced in the closed‑meeting request.

• Motion to close the September 18, 2025 council meeting to the public (Section 90)
• Council Member Motion: BreakOut West – Canadian Music Festival and Conference
• Council Member Motion: Single Egress Stairway (SES)
• Report from Committee of the Whole: Transforming City Parking
• Legal Advice – Community Charter Section 90(1)(i) and Labour Relations/Land acquisition items

Council directed staff to draft zoning and land‑use bylaw amendments to implement off‑street mobility recommendations and to extend the city’s no‑parking minimum zone. It also approved an in‑kind donation of up to $25,000 for the 2026 BreakOut West music festival and adopted a permissive tax‑exemption bylaw for 2026‑2028. All motions were passed, with vote counts ranging from unanimous to 7‑2.

• Approved up to $25,000 in‑kind donation (space) for BreakOut West festival (unanimous)
• Directed staff to draft zoning bylaw amendments for off‑street mobility (unanimous)
• Directed staff to conduct stakeholder engagement on mobility recommendations (unanimous)
• Directed staff to amend Land Use Procedures Bylaw to delegate parking variances (unanimous)
• Extended the “no parking minimums” zone to the DCAP border (6‑3)
• Established phased rollout for removing parking minimums city‑wide (7‑2)
• Approved on‑street parking management actions (data collection, modernized permits, meter parking, parkade study, streets bylaw amendments) (8‑1)
• Adopted permissive tax‑exemption bylaw for 2026‑2028 properties (7‑0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review applications for permissive property tax exemptions for 2026-2028 and a heritage designation for the exterior of 2407 Fernwood Road. The meeting also includes an introduction to Police Chief Fiona Wilson and a progress update on community safety priority actions.

• Heritage Designation Application No. 000216 for 2407 Fernwood Road
• Permissive Tax Exemptions 2026-2028 for non-profit organizations
• Introduction to Victoria Police Department Chief Fiona Wilson
• Progress update on Community Safety and Wellbeing priority actions
• Motion to hire a Detox-Treatment-Recovery System Access Navigator

The Committee approved the agenda and removed the tax‑exemption item from the consent agenda. Council unanimously approved the heritage designation for 2407 Fernwood Road and instructed staff to prepare the bylaw. A 2026‑2028 permissive tax exemption bylaw was approved with a 7‑to‑0 vote, adding the Royal Canadian Legion Pro Patria Branch 292. The council also referred a motion to include a Detox‑Treatment‑Recovery System Access Navigator in the 2026 draft budget.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• G.2 Permissive Tax Exemptions removed from Consent Agenda
• Heritage designation for 2407 Fernwood Road approved unanimously
• Permissive tax exemption bylaw for 2026‑2028 approved (7‑0), adding Royal Canadian Legion
• Motion to refer Detox‑Treatment‑Recovery System Access Navigator to budget discussions approved unanimously
• Committee adjourned unanimously

Special Council

The Victoria City Council will hold a public hearing and consider three key bylaws: the new Official Community Plan Bylaw 2025, an amendment to the Zoning Bylaw 2018, and an amendment to the Zoning Regulation Bylaw. The council will also vote on adopting the Rezoning and Development Policy (2025) and the updated Downtown Core Area Plan (2025). Additional bylaws on amenity cost charges, ticketing, adjudication, tenant protection, affordable housing standards, and land use procedures will be considered, along with rescinding listed guidelines and plans.

• Adopt Official Community Plan Bylaw, 2025 (No. 25-045)
• Amend Zoning Bylaw 2018 (No. 25-038)
• Amend Zoning Regulation Bylaw (No. 25-051)
• Adopt Rezoning and Development Policy (2025)
• Adopt Downtown Core Area Plan (updated 2025)

The council approved the meeting agenda without dissent. No vote was taken on the Official Community Plan bylaws; the public hearing concluded with no decision. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• Meeting adjourned (unanimous)

Council

The Victoria City Council will hold a public hearing to give third reading and adopt the Official Community Plan Bylaw 2025, amend the Zoning Bylaw 2018, and amend the Zoning Regulation Bylaw. It will also adopt the Amenity Cost Charges Bylaw 2025 and approve the Rezoning and Development Policy (2025) and the updated Downtown Core Area Plan. Additionally, the council will rescind a set of existing guidelines, plans and policies.

• Adopt Official Community Plan Bylaw, 2025 (No. 25-045)
• Amend Zoning Bylaw 2018 (No. 25-038)
• Amend Zoning Regulation Bylaw (No. 25-051)
• Adopt Amenity Cost Charges Bylaw 2025 (No. 25-048)
• Approve Rezoning and Development Policy (2025) and Downtown Core Area Plan (2025)

The council approved the agenda without dissent. No other motions were voted on. The public hearing on the Official Community Plan was started but recessed, with further input scheduled for a special meeting on September 15, 2025. Several speakers were listed, but most were not present to address council.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

Victoria City Council will meet to review minutes from July 2025 and consider reports from the Committee of the Whole. The meeting includes a closed session to discuss legal, labour, and law enforcement matters.

• Endorsement of funding applications to support City projects
• Council Member Motion regarding disclosure of affiliation when addressing Council
• Approval of minutes from July 3, 10, 17, and 24, 2025
• Closed meeting items regarding labour relations and legal advice

The council unanimously approved seven funding applications for city projects, including the Crystal Pool replacement and Bowker Creek daylighting. The approved amounts range from $31,600 to $7,000,000. The council also voted to close the remainder of the meeting to the public under Section 90 of the Community Charter. All consent‑agenda items were approved.

• Approved funding for Crystal Pool Replacement Project ($7,000,000) – unanimous
• Approved funding for Linear Parkways Implementation Strategy Project ($300,000) – unanimous
• Approved funding for Disaster Resilience through Innovative Chiller & Cooling Technologies Project ($3,000,000) – unanimous
• Approved funding for Bowker Creek Daylighting Project ($900,000) – unanimous
• Approved funding for Extreme Heat Solutions: Misting Stations at Resilience Hubs Project ($31,600) – unanimous
• Approved funding for Centennial Square Revitalization Project (up to $500,000) – unanimous
• Approved funding for Pedestrian, Accessibility and Traffic Calming Upgrades at Oaklands Elementary Project ($125,000) – unanimous
• Approved motion to close the council meeting to the public – unanimous

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will consider a liquor licence application for 721 Government Street that proposes raising the occupant load from 449 to 779 people, including a new outdoor patio. It will also endorse seven funding applications that support capital project delivery under the draft Official Community Plan. New business includes motions to explore a municipal lobbyist registry, to adopt a Sensitive Donations and Meetings Policy, and to require speakers to disclose affiliations.

• Liquor licence application for 721 Government Street – increase occupant load to 779 and add outdoor patio
• Endorsement of seven funding applications supporting capital projects in the draft Official Community Plan
• Council member motion to explore jurisdiction for a municipal lobbyist registry
• Council member motion on Sensitive Donations and Meetings Policy for land‑use decision transparency
• Council member motion requiring speakers to disclose affiliations with organized stakeholders

The Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda and consent agenda items unanimously. It endorsed multiple funding applications totaling up to $11.9 million and supported a liquor licence increase for the Fairmont Empress. The council also passed motions to study a municipal lobbyist registry and to require disclosure of land‑use donations and meeting logs, while rejecting a speaker‑affiliation disclosure motion.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items, including removal of two items (unanimous)
• Endorsed funding applications: $7,000,000 Crystal Pool Replacement, $300,000 Linear Parkways Strategy, $3,000,000 Disaster Resilience project, $900,000 Bowker Creek Daylighting, $31,600 Extreme Heat Misting Stations, up to $500,000 Centennial Square Revitalization, $125,000 Oaklands Elementary upgrades (unanimous)
• Approved support for Fairmont Empress liquor licence increase to 779 occupants, service 9 a.m.–1 a.m. (unanimous)
• Approved motion directing legal staff to study municipal lobbyist registry (7‑1)
• Approved motion amending bylaws for disclosure of land‑use donations and creation of a public meeting‑log (6‑2)
• Approved motion to refer the lobbyist‑registry study to Council after legal advice (6‑2)
• Defeated motion requiring speakers to disclose affiliations at public Council meetings (4‑4 tie)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will approve the agenda and adopt minutes from four prior meetings. It will consider a staff report titled “Transforming City Parking,” which provides recommendations for off‑street parking regulations and curbside management. Council members will also present four motions covering single‑egress stairway fire‑safety standards, the expiry of B.C.’s drug‑exemption, in‑kind space for the 2026 BreakOut West music festival, and termination of Victoria’s membership in the Urban Development Institute.

• Staff Report: Transforming City Parking – recommendations and priority actions for off‑street parking and curbside management
• Council Member Motion on Single Egress Stairway (SES) requirements affecting fire safety and construction codes
• Council Member Motion on the expiry of B.C.’s exemption under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
• Council Member Motion to provide in‑kind space at the Victoria Conference Centre for BreakOut West 2026
• Council Member Motion to terminate Victoria’s membership in the Urban Development Institute

The Committee approved the agenda and consent agenda items unanimously. Council directed staff to draft amendments to Zoning Bylaw 2018 and the Zoning Regulation Bylaw, to conduct focused stakeholder engagement, and to prepare amendments to the Land Use Procedures Bylaw. An amendment adding a resident brochure and newsletter notice to the off‑street mobility recommendations was adopted by a 6‑to‑3 vote. Staff were also instructed to report back within five years on emerging mobility trends and to extend the “no parking minimums” zone to the DCAP border.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• Consent agenda minutes approved unanimously
• Amendment to off‑street mobility recommendations carried (6‑3)
• Direct staff to draft Zoning Bylaw 2018 and Zoning Regulation Bylaw amendments
• Direct staff to conduct focused stakeholder engagement and distribute a brochure to every resident
• Direct staff to prepare Land Use Procedures Bylaw (No. 16-028) amendments for parking variances
• Direct staff to report back within five years on emerging mobility trends
• Extend the “no parking minimums” zone to the border of the DCAP

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council will conduct first, second, and third readings of several bylaws, including Tenant Protection During Redevelopment, Affordable Housing Standards, Ticket, Bylaw Notice Adjudication, and Land Use Procedures amendments. A rezoning application (No. 00866) for properties on Blanshard Street, Hillside Avenue, Dowler Place and Kings Road will also be reviewed. The meeting includes a short‑term rental business licence appeal for A‑32 Paddon Avenue and closed‑session items under the Community Charter.

• First/second/third readings of Tenant Protection During Redevelopment Bylaw, No. 25-044
• First/second/third readings of Affordable Housing Standards Bylaw Amendment No. 2, No. 25-053
• First/second/third readings of Ticket Bylaw Amendment No. 18, No. 25-042
• Rezoning Application No. 00866 for 2501‑2699 Blanshard Street, 825/841 Hillside Avenue, 2500‑2684 Dowler Place and 900 Kings Road
• Short‑Term Rental Business Licence Appeal for A‑32 Paddon Avenue

Council gave first, second and third readings to five bylaws covering tenant protection, affordable housing standards, ticketing, bylaw notice adjudication and land‑use procedures, and directed staff to amend the Reserve Fund Bylaw. The council also approved a rezoning amendment for properties on Blanshard Street, Dowler Place and Kings Road, and granted a short‑term rental licence for A‑32 Paddon Avenue. A motion to hold a closed meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter was carried unanimously.

• Approved first, second, third readings of five bylaws (Tenant Protection, Affordable Housing Standards, Ticket, Bylaw Notice Adjudication, Land Use Procedures) (8‑1)
• Directed staff to amend the Reserve Fund Bylaw and Reserve Fund Policy to add an Amenity Cost Charges Reserve (8‑1)
• Approved rezoning amendment (Zoning Regulation Bylaw, Amendment No. 1362, No. 25‑054) for 2501‑2699 Blanshard St, 825/841 Hillside Ave, 2500‑2684 Dowler Pl and 900 Kings Rd (unanimous)
• Granted short‑term rental business licence for premises at A‑32 Paddon Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved motion to close the September 4 council meeting to the public under Section 90 (8‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items: minutes from Daytime Council meetings on May 22, June 5, June 19 and June 26, 2025 (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council meeting will review and vote on a Development Permit with Variances (Application No. 00287) for 775 Finlayson Street, which proposes changes to parking and a new bicycle facility. The council will also adopt two bylaws (No. 25-007 and No. 25-040) affecting 710 Caledonia Avenue and 1961 Douglas Street. Additional items include liquor licence applications for 350 Bay Street (Moon Brewpub) and 2010 Government Street (Phillips Brewing), and a heritage designation application for 1466 Gladstone Avenue. Several agenda items will be considered in closed session under Community Charter Section 90.

• 775 Finlayson Street: Development Permit with Variances Application No. 00287
• Bylaw No. 25-007: Zoning Regulation amendment for 710 Caledonia Avenue and 1961 Douglas Street
• Bylaw No. 25-040: Housing Agreement amendment for 710 Caledonia Avenue and 1961 Douglas Street
• 350 Bay Street (Moon Brewpub): Liquor licence application (Burnside)
• 2010 Government Street (Phillips Brewing): Liquor licence application (Burnside)

The council approved the meeting agenda unanimously and adopted several consent‑agenda items, including heritage designation for 1466 Gladstone Avenue and support for liquor licence expansions at 350 Bay Street and 2010 Government Street. It endorsed Councillor Susan Kim’s participation in FCM committees, referred the Convent Place rezoning back to staff, and adopted a zoning regulation amendment and a housing‑agreement bylaw for 710 Caledonia Avenue and 1961 Douglas Street.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• Consent agenda items approved, including heritage designation for 1466 Gladstone Ave
• Council supports two new patios for Moon Brewpub at 350 Bay St
• Council supports capacity increase for Phillips Brewing at 2010 Government St
• Endorsed Councillor Susan Kim for FCM standing committees (unanimous)
• Rezoning Application No. 00756 and Development Permit No. 00213 referred back to staff (8‑to‑1)
• Adopted Zoning Regulation Bylaw Amendment No. 25‑007
• Adopted Housing Agreement Bylaw (No. 25‑040) for 710 Caledonia Ave and 1961 Douglas St

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review land use applications, including a request to increase density at 933-935 Convent Place and a heritage designation for 1466 Gladstone Avenue. The body will also receive a progress report on the 2024 Climate Leadership Plan and discuss emergency weather response.

• Rezoning Application No. 00756 for 933-935 Convent Place to increase density and allow multiple dwellings
• Heritage Designation Application No. 000214 for 1466 Gladstone Avenue
• 2024 Climate Leadership Plan Progress Report
• Council Member Motion regarding the Emergency Weather Response Plan 2025/26
• Council Member Motion for participation in FCM Standing Policy Committees and Working Groups

The Council instructed staff to prepare a zoning‑bylaw amendment for 933‑935 Convent Place and approved it after conditions were set, passing 6‑3. A heritage designation for 1466 Gladstone Avenue was approved on the consent agenda. The Council unanimously requested a staff report on the 2025/26 Emergency Weather Response Plan. A motion to endorse participation in FCM standing policy committees was also carried unanimously.

• Approved rezoning of 933‑935 Convent Place with conditions (carried 6‑3)
• Approved heritage designation for 1466 Gladstone Avenue (consent agenda)
• Requested staff report on 2025/26 Emergency Weather Response Plan (unanimous)
• Endorsed participation in FCM standing policy committees (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from May 15, 2025 Committee of the Whole (consent agenda)
• Approved minutes from June 12, 2025 Committee of the Whole (consent agenda)
• Removed 2024 Climate Leadership Plan Progress Report from consent agenda

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council will review a report recommending first and second readings of the Official Community Plan Bylaw (2025, No. 25-045), amendments to the Zoning Bylaw 2018 (No. 25-038) and the Zoning Regulation Bylaw (No. 25-051), and first through third readings of the Amenity Cost Charges Bylaw (2025, No. 25-048). The meeting will be held as a closed session under Community Charter Section 90 for items involving confidential negotiations and personal information. These bylaws aim to update the Official Community Plan, modernize zoning, and establish cost‑charge mechanisms for city amenities.

• First and second readings of Official Community Plan Bylaw, 2025, No. 25-045
• First and second readings of Zoning Bylaw 2018, Amendment No. 17, No. 25-038
• First and second readings of Zoning Regulation Bylaw amendment No. 1361, No. 25-051
• First, second, and third readings of Amenity Cost Charges Bylaw 2025, No. 25-048
• Closed‑meeting discussion of confidential intergovernmental negotiations under Community Charter Section 90

The council adopted a motion, after amendments, to give first and second readings to the Official Community Plan Bylaw 2025 (No. 25‑045), the Zoning Modernization amendment (No. 25‑038), the Zoning Regulation amendment (No. 25‑051), and the third reading of the Amenity Cost Charges Bylaw 2025 (No. 25‑048). The motion also directed staff to hold an online OCP information workshop for the public and developers and to refer the bylaws to a public hearing. The motion carried 8‑to‑1. A separate motion to close the meeting to the public was carried unanimously, and the council adjourned unanimously.

• Approved first and second readings of OCP 2025 Bylaw No. 25‑045 (8‑1)
• Approved first and second readings of Zoning Modernization Bylaw No. 25‑038 (8‑1)
• Approved first and second readings of Zoning Regulation Bylaw No. 25‑051 (8‑1)
• Approved first, second and third readings of Amenity Cost Charges Bylaw No. 25‑048 (8‑1)
• Directed staff to hold an online OCP information workshop for public and developers (8‑1)
• Referred OCP 2025, Zoning Modernization and Zoning Regulation Updates to a public hearing (8‑1)
• Closed the July 24, 2025 council meeting to the public (unanimous)
• Adjourned the council meeting at 4:24 p.m. (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss the 2024 annual review of the Victoria Housing Strategy. The body is also considering two liquor licence applications for businesses on Bay Street and Government Street.

• Liquor licence application for Moon Brewpub at 350 Bay Street to construct two new outdoor patios
• Liquor licence application for Phillips Brewing at 2010 Government Street to increase occupant load from 134 to 153 people
• Victoria Housing Strategy Annual Review 2024 report on housing targets and implementation

The Committee of the Whole unanimously approved the consent agenda items for 350 Bay Street (Moon Brewpub) and 2010 Government Street (Phillips Brewing), supporting new patios and increased occupant loads. Both applications were directed to staff for response to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch. The council also unanimously received the Victoria Housing Strategy Annual Review 2024 report for information.

• Approved Moon Brewpub liquor licence with two patios (unanimous)
• Approved Phillips Brewing liquor licence capacity increase (unanimous)
• Received Victoria Housing Strategy Annual Review 2024 report for information (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council meeting will consider several bylaws, including the adoption of the 2025 Five‑Year Financial Plan. It will also review rezoning and heritage alteration applications for the Duck's Block on Broad and Johnson Streets, and a rezoning and development permit for properties on Richmond Road, Birch Street and Pembroke Street. Additional reports on Bike Share and the 2025 Crystal Pool referendum will be presented. Parts of the meeting will be closed under Community Charter sections on security and law‑enforcement matters.

• Bylaw No. 25‑039 – rezoning and heritage alteration for 1312‑1324 Broad St and 615‑625 Johnson St (Duck's Block)
• Bylaw No. 25‑013 – rezoning and development permit for 2002 Richmond Rd, 1903/1909 Birch St and 1769 Pembroke St (six‑storey rental building)
• Bylaw No. 25‑052 – adoption of the 2025 Five‑Year Financial Plan
• Report on bringing Bike Share to Victoria
• Report on 2025 Crystal Pool Referendum lessons learned

Council gave first, second and third readings to Zoning Regulation Bylaw Amendment No. 25‑013 for 2002 Richmond Road, 1903/1909 Birch Street and 1769 Pembroke Street. The council then authorized the issuance of Development Permit with Variances No. 00252 for those sites, subject to the listed setbacks, parking reductions and other conditions, with a two‑year lapse clause. The motion passed 7‑1, with Councillor Thompson opposing.

• Approved first, second and third readings of Zoning Regulation Bylaw Amendment No. 25‑013 (unanimous)
• Authorized Development Permit with Variances No. 00252 for Richmond Rd, Birch St and Pembroke St (7‑1)
• Directed staff to issue RFP and amend bylaws for a privately operated electric bike‑share system (unanimous)
• Directed staff to prepare bylaw amendments for 2025 Crystal Pool referendum lessons (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning bylaw for 1312‑1324 Broad St and 615‑625 Johnson St (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will receive a final report submission from the Victoria-Saanich Citizens’ Assembly. The body will also consider a motion regarding conference expenses for a council member.

• Presentation of the Victoria-Saanich Citizens’ Assembly Final Report
• Request for authorization of attendance and costs for Councillor Kim to attend the Union of BC Municipalities 2025 Conference

The Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda, the consent agenda and the May 8, 2025 minutes unanimously. Council received the Victoria‑Saanich Citizens’ Assembly final report and, after amendment, unanimously directed staff to work with Saanich to craft a short question for the 2026 local election ballot and report back with any additional information. The motion to authorize Councillor Kim’s conference travel was ruled out of order by the chair.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• Consent agenda approved (unanimous)
• May 8, 2025 minutes approved (unanimous)
• Received Citizens’ Assembly report and directed staff to draft 2026 ballot question (unanimous)
• Motion to authorize conference attendance ruled out of order (no vote)
• Committee adjourned at 11:56 a.m. (unanimous)

Council

Victoria City Council is scheduled to meet on July 10, 2025, to hear public presentations on housing affordability, cycling infrastructure, and tenant protection. The agenda includes a poetry reading and the approval of the meeting agenda itself.

• Public hearings on housing and tenant protection
• Presentations on cycling routes and bike lanes
• Discussion on indexed property taxes
• Presentation on rooftop bird deterrent devices
• Approval of the meeting agenda

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda. No motions or substantive items were decided. The meeting was then unanimously adjourned at 7:08 p.m.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• Meeting adjourned (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

The council meeting on July 10, 2025 will consider and vote on several bylaws, including the amendment to adopt the Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw for 2025. It will also consider a housing agreement bylaw for 1042 Richardson Street, a rezoning and development permit for 131, 135, and 139 Menzies Street, and an amendment to the Streets and Traffic Bylaw to reduce speed limits on arterial and collector roads. Items on the consent agenda include BC Hydro cable replacement projects for Victoria‑Esquimalt and Victoria‑Saanich. The council will move to close part of the meeting under Community Charter Section 90.

• BC Hydro – Victoria to Esquimalt and Victoria to Saanich Cable Replacement Projects (Consent agenda)
• Amendment Bylaw for Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw, 2025 (adopt annual financial plan)
• Bylaw No. 25-050 – Housing Agreement for 1042 Richardson Street
• Rezoning Application No. 00823 and Development Permit No. 00210 for 131, 135, 139 Menzies Street (site‑specific zone, 1.99:1 FSR, four‑storey mixed‑use)
• Amendment Bylaw No. 25-046 – Streets and Traffic Bylaw to reduce speed limits on arterial and collector roads

The council adopted several bylaws, including a five‑year financial plan amendment that earmarks $9.35 million for capital projects. It also directed staff to seek prioritized supportive housing from BC Housing and to work with Island Health on a dedicated outreach worker. A request was made for the mayor to write to provincial ministers on these housing and health priorities. Additional bylaws were passed for a housing agreement, rezoning of Menzies Street, and a streets‑and‑traffic amendment.

• Approved BC Hydro request for amenities at Banfield and Arbutus Parks (unanimous)
• Directed staff to ask BC Housing to prioritize supportive housing and shelter spaces for downtown (6‑2)
• Directed staff to work with Island Health to assign a dedicated outreach support worker (unanimous)
• Requested Mayor write to Ministers of Health and Housing to prioritize those matters (6‑2)
• Adopted Five‑Year Financial Plan amendment, allocating $9.35 M to capital projects (6‑2)
• Adopted Housing Agreement Bylaw for 1042 Richardson Street (6‑2)
• Adopted Zoning Regulation Bylaw amendment for 131, 135, 139 Menzies Street, authorizing development permit with variances (6‑2)
• Adopted Streets and Traffic Bylaw amendment (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review the Victoria Police Department 2026 budget and consider two council member motions. One motion asks Island Health to cease operation of its “The Harbour” safe consumption site by August 31, 2025. The other motion seeks to postpone the Centennial Square redesign and reallocate funds to the City’s Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan. Standard items such as introductions, consent agenda, and procedural notices are also on the agenda.

• Presentation of the Victoria Police Department and Police Board 2026 Budget
• Council Member Motion to end Island Health’s “The Harbour” safe consumption site by Aug 31, 2025
• Council Member Motion to postpone the Centennial Square redesign and shift funding to the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan
• Consent agenda items
• Standard procedural items (introductions, agenda approval, closed meeting if required)

The agenda was approved unanimously. A motion requesting the Mayor to ask Island Health to cease all safe consumption sites was referred to the November 6, 2025 Committee of the Whole meeting and carried 6‑2. A separate motion to postpone the Centennial Square redesign was ruled out of order, with the ruling upheld 5‑2.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• Motion to refer Island Health safe consumption site request carried (6‑2)
• Referral scheduled for November 6, 2025 Committee of the Whole
• Motion to postpone Centennial Square redesign ruled out of order (5‑2)

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council meeting will review a consent agenda that includes a motion to explore expanding solid waste collection and support for Truth and Reconciliation Day. The council will consider an amendment to the Streets and Traffic Bylaw that reduces speed limits on arterial and collector roads, as well as several rezoning and development applications for Richardson Street, Esquimalt Road, Catherine Street, Kimta Road, and a short‑term rental licence appeal. A closed portion of the meeting will address officer appointments, labour relations, law enforcement, and intergovernmental matters under the Community Charter.

• Amendment Bylaw for Streets and Traffic Bylaw to reduce speed limits on arterial and collector roads (Bylaw No. 25-046)
• Rezoning and development permit for 1042 and 1044 Richardson Street to allow a six‑storey residential building (~20 units)
• Rezoning and Official Community Plan amendment for 251 Esquimalt Rd, 355 Catherine St, and 200‑210 Kimta Rd to increase density to 4.58:1 FSR and height up to ~32 storeys
• Short‑term rental business licence appeal for 2‑1140 Arthur Currie Lane
• Amendment Bylaw for Officers Bylaw (Bylaw No. 25-047) to amend officer positions

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda and consent agenda items, including a study of expanding municipal solid waste collection and funding for the 2025 Truth and Reconciliation Day events. It also adopted an amendment to the Streets and Traffic Bylaw. Several rezoning, housing agreement and development‑permit bylaws were approved, while a short‑term rental licence appeal was denied and a closed‑meeting motion passed.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items: solid‑waste service scope study, Truth and Reconciliation Day funding, and Streets and Traffic Bylaw amendment (unanimous)
• Approved Housing Agreement (1042 Richardson Street) Bylaw No. 25-050 and related zoning amendment (6‑2)
• Approved Development Permit with Variances for 1042/1044 Richardson Street (6‑2)
• Approved rezoning and OCP amendments for 251 Esquimalt Rd, 355 Catherine St, 200‑210 Kimta Rd (6‑2)
• Approved Housing Agreement for 1276/1278 Gladstone Ave (5‑3)
• Approved rezoning and Development Permit with Variances for Battery St, Niagara St, and 50 Douglas St (7‑1)
• Denied reconsideration of short‑term rental licence for 2‑1140 Arthur Currie Lane (7‑1)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss a staff report on implementing a privately owned and operated electric bike share system. The body will also review lessons learned from the 2025 Crystal Pool Referendum to improve future elections.

• Proposal to issue a Request for Proposals for a private electric bike share system
• Review of 2025 Crystal Pool Referendum lessons learned and proposed election improvements

The Committee of the Whole directed staff to issue a Request for Proposals and amend bylaws to enable a privately owned electric bike‑share system, targeting a spring 2026 launch. It also approved a package of bylaw amendments to allow mail‑ballot deadline extensions in emergencies, expand election signage regulations, and require City advertising for referendums to be reviewed by the City Manager. Both actions were carried unanimously.

• Directed staff to issue RFP and amend bylaws for a privately owned electric bike‑share system (unanimous)
• Approved bylaw amendment to let the Chief Election Officer extend mail‑ballot deadlines in extraordinary circumstances (unanimous)
• Approved bylaw amendment to expand election signage regulations to provincial and federal elections (unanimous)
• Approved bylaw amendment requiring City advertising and promotional material for referendums be reviewed by the City Manager (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will approve the agenda and consent agenda, including minutes from the April 24, 2025 meeting. A presentation on BC Hydro's Victoria‑to‑Esquimalt and Victoria‑to‑Saanich cable replacement projects will be reviewed. Council members will discuss a motion to amend the Residential Tenancy Act and a new motion to expedite housing and support for people sheltering downtown. A staff report on Transforming City Parking has been postponed to the September 4, 2025 meeting.

• BC Hydro – Victoria to Esquimalt and Victoria to Saanich Cable Replacement Projects presentation
• Council Member Motion: Residential Tenancy Act amendment (remove supportive housing, allow police involvement in tenant selection)
• Council Member Motion: Expediting Housing and Support for People Sheltering Downtown
• Consent agenda: Minutes from the Committee of the Whole meeting held April 24, 2025
• Staff Report – Transforming City Parking (postponed to September 4, 2025)

The Committee of the Whole approved its agenda and consent agenda unanimously. It asked BC Hydro to add a washroom and improved beach access at Banfield and Arbutus Parks. The council referred a Residential Tenancy Act recommendation to the July 3 meeting. It adopted a motion directing staff to seek prioritized supportive housing, coordinate with Island Health, and have the mayor write to provincial ministers, passing 7‑2.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda, including April 24 minutes (unanimous)
• Requested BC Hydro add washroom and beach access at Banfield and Arbutus Parks (unanimous)
• Referred Residential Tenancy Act recommendation to July 3 Committee of the Whole (unanimous)
• Approved housing and support motion directing staff to request BC Housing prioritize supportive housing, work with Island Health, and have mayor write to ministers (7‑2)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:22 a.m. (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

The council will vote on a housing agreement amendment for 710 Caledonia Avenue that would increase the required rental units from 171 to 214. They will also consider an amendment to the Officers Bylaw and several other housing rezoning and development permit applications on Gladstone Avenue, Chamberlain Street, and other sites. Additional agenda items include short‑term rental licence appeals for properties on Pandora Avenue, Dallas Road and Yates Street, and a closed‑session portion covering employee relations, land acquisition and legal advice.

• Housing agreement amendment & rezoning for 710 Caledonia Ave (increase rental units to 214) – Bylaw No. 25-040
• Amendment Bylaw for Officers Bylaw – No. 25-047
• Rezoning and development permit for 1276/1278 Gladstone Avenue – density increase to 1.52:1 FSR
• Short‑term rental licence appeal for 305‑528 Pandora Avenue
• Closed‑meeting agenda covering employee relations, land acquisition, and legal advice (Community Charter sections 90)

The council adopted several housing and zoning bylaws, authorized development permits with variances for multiple sites, and granted a short‑term rental business licence. Votes ranged from unanimous to 6‑3 splits, with two members opposing the rental licence.

• Approved Officers Bylaw amendment (No. 25-047) – carried unanimously
• Adopted Housing Agreement amendment for 710 Caledonia Ave & 1961 Douglas St (No. 25-040) – carried unanimously
• Authorized Development Permit with Variances No. 00262 for 710 Caledonia Ave & 1961 Douglas St – carried unanimously
• Approved Housing Agreement for 1276/1278 Gladstone Ave (No. 25-020) – carried 6 to 3
• Adopted Zoning Regulation Bylaw amendment (No. 24-071) – carried 6 to 3
• Authorized Development Permit with Variances No. 00249 for 1276/1278 Gladstone Ave – carried 6 to 3
• Adopted Housing Agreement and Zoning Regulation for 1005 Chamberlain St (No. 25-001, No. 24-042) – carried 8 to 0
• Granted short‑term rental business licence for 305‑528 Pandora Avenue – opposed by Mayor Alto and Councillor Hammond

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review staff reports on the Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan and on Transforming City Parking. Council members have introduced motions to explore expanding municipal solid waste collection to schools, libraries and community centres, and to fund the 2025 Truth and Reconciliation Day ceremonial event and tribal journeys at Royal Athletic Park. The council will also consider items on the consent agenda and approve the meeting agenda.

• Council Member Motion to support funding for the 2025 Truth and Reconciliation Day ceremonial event and tribal journeys at Royal Athletic Park
• Council Member Motion to explore expanding the City’s municipal solid waste collection service to School District 61 facilities, Greater Victoria Public Library locations, and community centres
• Staff Report: Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan with recommendations for safety, wellbeing and resilience actions
• Staff Report: Transforming City Parking with recommendations for modernizing off‑street parking regulations and curbside management
• Consent agenda items and approval of the meeting agenda

The council endorsed the həlisət Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan in principle (8‑1) and directed the mayor and staff to assess its budget, policy changes, and performance indicators. It also ordered the City Manager to begin preliminary actions within the 2025 budget. The council approved up to $100,000 for a Truth and Reconciliation Day event and $25,000 for Tribal Journeys, and directed staff to study expanding municipal solid‑waste collection to schools, libraries and community centres.

• Endorsed həlisət Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan (8‑1)
• Directed Mayor to engage partners on plan components (unanimous)
• Directed staff to assess budget implications of the plan (unanimous)
• Directed staff to assess required policy changes (8‑1)
• Directed staff to assess key performance indicators (unanimous)
• Directed staff to present analyses before 2026 Draft Budget (unanimous)
• Approved up to $100,000 for Truth and Reconciliation Day event and $25,000 for Tribal Journeys (unanimous)
• Directed staff to investigate expanding municipal solid‑waste collection to SD61 facilities, GVPL locations and community centres (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

The council will first approve the agenda and a consent agenda that includes the Industry, Arts and Innovation District Action Plan, a proposed amendment to the council travel policy, appointment of bylaw officers, and motions on COVID‑19 housing data and preserving downtown movie theatres. After the consent items, the council will move to a closed session to consider matters covered by Community Charter sections 90(1)(e), 90(1)(f) and 90(2)(b), including law‑enforcement issues, land acquisition or disposition, intergovernmental negotiations, and employee‑relations topics. The meeting follows the June 5 Committee of the Whole report.

• Industry, Arts and Innovation District Action Plan and Regulatory Directions (consent agenda)
• Potential amendments to the City’s Travel Policy for Council members (consent agenda)
• Appointment of Bylaw Officers (consent agenda)
• Council member motions on COVID‑19 housing data and preserving downtown movie theatres (consent agenda)
• Closed‑session items on law enforcement, land acquisition/disposition, intergovernmental negotiations, and employee relations under Community Charter sections 90(1)(e), 90(1)(f), 90(2)(b) (new business)

The council voted 8‑to‑1 to amend the City’s Travel Policy, adding a $6,000 annual travel allowance for each councillor and other changes. It also approved the Industry, Arts and Innovation District Action Plan and directed staff to integrate its zoning approach into upcoming bylaws. Additional actions included appointing three bylaw officers, directing a report on downtown cinema options, and closing part of the meeting under the Community Charter.

• Approved amendments to the City’s Travel Policy (8 to 1)
• Approved the Industry, Arts and Innovation District Action Plan (unanimous on consent agenda)
• Directed staff to integrate the Action Plan zoning approach into the new Zoning Bylaw and Subdivision and Development Servicing Bylaw (unanimous)
• Appointed Samuel Braun, Stephanie Leippi, and Leah Mesay as Bylaw Officers (unanimous)
• Defeated motion to refer the CoV Housing Data matter (unanimous defeat)
• Directed the City Manager to report on options to support downtown movie theatres (7 to 2)
• Approved a closed meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter (unanimous)
• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council meeting will approve the agenda, adopt several consent items, and consider a series of bylaws. Items include a new Energy and Carbon Emissions Reporting Bylaw (No. 25‑022) and housing agreement bylaws for 1005 Chamberlain Street, 1885 Government Street and 837 Broughton Street. The council will also vote on an amendment to the Parks and Recreation Fees Bylaw. Several agenda items will be discussed in closed session under the Community Charter.

• Bylaw for Energy and Carbon Emissions Reporting (No. 25‑022)
• Bylaw for 1005 Chamberlain Street: Housing Agreement (No. 25‑001)
• Bylaws for 1885 Government Street: Housing Agreement, Rezoning (No. 00870), Heritage Designation (No. 000209), Development Permit with Variances (No. 00641)
• Bylaw for 837 Broughton Street: Housing Agreement (No. 25‑037)
• Amendment Bylaw for Parks and Recreation Fees (No. 25‑035)

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda, which added several motions and removed one bylaw. The Energy and Carbon Emissions Reporting Bylaw No. 25‑022 was passed with a 7‑to‑2 vote. Multiple housing‑related bylaws, a zoning amendment, a heritage designation, and a parks‑and‑recreation fees amendment were adopted unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items, adding motions and removing one bylaw (unanimous)
• Energy and Carbon Emissions Reporting Bylaw No. 25‑022 carried (7‑2)
• Housing Agreement Bylaw (1005 Chamberlain Street) carried (8‑0)
• Housing Agreement Bylaw (1885 Government Street) carried unanimously
• Zoning Bylaw 2018 Amendment No. 16 carried unanimously
• Heritage Designation Bylaw for 1885 Government Street carried unanimously
• Parks and Recreation Fees Bylaw Amendment No. 15 carried unanimously

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review a development permit with variances for 775 Finlayson Street, which proposes reducing commercial parking stalls and adding a secured bike‑parking facility while converting the building to an indoor trampoline park and gym. Council members will also consider motions supporting housing as a human right, commercial rent control, and supportive‑housing targets, as well as a street‑entertainment bylaw report and a strata‑title conversion study for 1012 Oliphant Avenue. An Island Health medical officer will give a public‑health update, and the council will approve the consent agenda and minutes from previous meetings.

• 775 Finlayson Street: Development Permit with Variances (reducing parking stalls, adding bike facility, indoor trampoline park)
• Street Entertainment Bylaw Approval and Engagement Summary Report
• 1012 Oliphant Avenue: Strata Title Conversion Consideration
• Council Member Motion: UBCM resolution declaring housing as a human right
• Council Member Motion: Commercial rent control endorsement

The council approved the agenda and consent agenda items unanimously. It authorized a development permit with variances for 775 Finlayson Street (unanimous). It declined a strata title conversion for 1012 Oliphant Avenue (3‑6) but later approved conditional approval of the conversion plan (unanimous). It also authorized a $110 bouquet for the Miners Memorial vigil (7‑2) and voted to close part of the meeting to the public (6‑2).

• Added late item B.1 Housing Urgency to agenda as new J.4 (8‑1)
• Added late item B.2 UBCM Resolution – Supportive Housing Targets to agenda as new J.5 (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from April 10 and May 1 on consent agenda (unanimous)
• Authorized development permit with variances for 775 Finlayson St (unanimous)
• Declined strata title conversion for 1012 Oliphant Ave (3‑6)
• Approved conditional plan for strata conversion of 1012 Oliphant Ave (unanimous)
• Authorized $110 bouquet for Miners Memorial vigil (7‑2)

Council

The council meeting includes an open house featuring youth music performances and a series of short presentations by community groups. Performers include youth cellist Adrian Zhang and pianist Felicia Ma. Presenting organizations include the City of Victoria Youth Council, Junior Achievement of British Columbia, Threshold Housing Society, Coalition of Neighbourhood Houses, Victoria Poetry Project Society, and the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Music performance by youth cellist Adrian Zhang
• Music performance by youth pianist Felicia Ma
• Presentation by City of Victoria Youth Council
• Presentation by Junior Achievement of British Columbia
• Presentation by Threshold Housing Society

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda. No other motions were passed; the meeting concluded with an adjournment motion carried unanimously. The session consisted mainly of open‑house presentations and youth program updates, with no substantive decisions taken.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:10 p.m. (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

The council will review a rezoning, housing agreement, and development variance for 837 Broughton Street, allowing a seven‑storey mixed‑use building with about 42 rental units. It will also consider an amendment to the Parks and Recreation Fees Bylaw, a short‑term rental licence appeal for 305‑528 Pandora Avenue, and reports on energy and carbon emissions for large buildings. Additional items include approval of minutes from April council meetings and motions to close part of the meeting under the Community Charter.

• Rezoning of 837 Broughton Street (bylaw No. 25-037 and No. 25-008) to RMD-4 zone for a seven‑storey mixed‑use residential building with ~42 rental units
• Amendment Bylaw for Parks and Recreation Fees (Bylaw No. 25-035) to revise facility usage fees
• Short‑Term Rental Business Licence Appeal for 305‑528 Pandora Avenue
• Energy and Carbon Emissions Reporting for Large Buildings (Committee of the Whole reports)
• Consent agenda minutes from council meetings on April 3 and April 17, 2025

The council added a motion for the UBCM Resolution on amenity cost charges and affordable housing and approved the agenda amendment unanimously. It instructed staff to prepare an Official Community Plan amendment and zoning regulation bylaws for the rezoning application covering 1824, 1900, 1907, 1908, 1924 and 2010 Store Street and 530 Chatham Street. The Parks and Recreation Fees Bylaw amendment (No. 18, No. 25‑035) and the Energy and Carbon Emissions Reporting Bylaw (No. 25‑022) were each carried unanimously. The Urban Food Table grant was increased by $1,400 with a 7‑to‑2 vote.

• Agenda amendment to add UBCM Resolution on amenity cost charges and affordable housing – carried unanimously
• Instruction to prepare OCP amendment and zoning regulation bylaws for rezoning of Store and Chatham Street sites – approved on Consent Agenda
• Parks and Recreation Fees Bylaw Amendment (No. 18, No. 25‑035) – carried unanimously
• Endorse Energy and Carbon Emissions Reporting program for large buildings and forward By‑law No. 25‑022 – carried unanimously
• Increase Urban Food Table annual grant by $1,400 starting 2025 – carried 7‑to‑2
• Removal of Energy and Carbon Emissions Reporting for Large Buildings from Consent Agenda – approved
• Approval of minutes from April 3 and April 17, 2025 Daytime Council meetings – approved on Consent Agenda
• Council directed staff to break down affordable housing needs for the 2024 Housing Strategy Review – motion passed (vote not recorded)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will first approve the consent agenda, including minutes from the April 3 and April 17 meetings, and review staff reports on the Industry, Arts and Innovation District Action Plan, potential amendments to the City’s Travel Policy for members of Council, and the appointment of three bylaw officers. It will then consider four council‑member motions covering amenity cost charges for affordable housing, changes to the Residential Tenancy Act, a report on Victoria’s housing stock, and options to preserve downtown movie theatres. All items are for discussion and recommendation to Council.

• Approval of minutes from the Committee of the Whole meetings held April 3, 2025 and April 17, 2025
• Staff report on the Industry, Arts and Innovation District Action Plan and regulatory directions
• Potential amendments to the City’s Travel Policy for members of Council
• Appointment of three City of Victoria Bylaw Officers
• Council member motion to adopt a UBCM resolution allowing amenity cost charges to support affordable housing

The council approved the meeting agenda and consent agenda items, adding a motion for housing data and appointing three bylaw officers. It unanimously adopted the Industry, Arts and Innovation District Action Plan and directed staff to embed its zoning, public‑realm and design guidelines into upcoming zoning and subdivision bylaws and the Downtown Core Area Plan. The council also approved seven amendments to the City’s Travel Policy, establishing a $6,000 annual travel allowance for councillors and new reimbursement and per‑diem rules. All motions were carried unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items, added H.3 housing data motion (unanimous)
• Appointed Samuel Braun, Stephanie Leippi, and Leah Mesay as Bylaw Officers (unanimous)
• Approved H.3 motion directing staff to provide detailed housing unit counts (unanimous)
• Approved Industry, Arts and Innovation District Action Plan and instructed integration into Zoning Bylaw 2018, Subdivision Bylaw 12-042, and Downtown Core Area Plan (unanimous)
• Approved seven amendments to the City’s Travel Policy, including $6,000 travel allowance and per‑diem changes (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

Victoria City Council will review reports from the Committee of the Whole regarding liquor and cannabis licensing and a rezoning application. The meeting also includes a closed session to discuss law enforcement and intergovernmental relations.

• Rezoning Application No. 00873, Official Community Plan Amendment, and Heritage Alteration Permit for 603 Pandora Avenue
• Liquor Primary Licence application for 1415 Broad Street (Encore by Paparazzi)
• Recommendation for Rise Cannabis Quadra at 3198 Quadra Street
• Closed meeting items regarding law enforcement and intergovernmental relations

The council unanimously approved a new liquor primary licence for Encore by Paparazzi at 1415 Broad Street with specific conditions. It voted 7‑2 to refer the rezoning and development permit applications for 603 Pandora back to staff for revisions. The council also approved an 8‑1 recommendation that Rise Cannabis Quadra at 3198 Quadra Street receive a provincial cannabis retail licence. Additionally, the council unanimously directed the mayor to attend a trustee electoral area meeting and approved a closed meeting under the Community Charter.

• Approved new liquor primary licence for Encore by Paparazzi (1415 Broad St) – unanimous
• Referred Rezoning Application No. 00873 and related permits for 603 Pandora back to staff – 7 to 2
• Supported Rise Cannabis Quadra licence for 3198 Quadra St – 8 to 1
• Directed mayor to attend trustee electoral area meeting – unanimous
• Approved closed meeting under Community Charter sections 90(1)(f) and 90(2)(b) – unanimous

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss a rezoning application to increase density and height for two city blocks to allow residential and other uses. The body will also review a police report and motions regarding school board elections and housing data.

• Rezoning Application No. 00796 for 1824, 1900, 1907, 1908, 1924, 2010 Store Street and 530 Chatham Street
• Victoria Police Department 2025 Quarter 1 Report
• Motion to support a 'Trustee Electoral Area' model in SD61
• Motion regarding affordable non-market housing data and targets

The agenda and consent agenda were approved unanimously. Council unanimously directed the mayor to attend the May 28 trustee‑electoral‑area meeting and report back. Council instructed the Director of Planning and Development to prepare the required Official Community Plan amendment and Zoning Regulation bylaw amendments for 1824, 1900, 1907, 1908, 1924 and 2010 Store Street and 530 Chatham Street, and to set a public hearing date for the first and second readings. Council also directed staff to work with the applicant on additional green‑roof, shoreline‑restoration and marine‑habitat commitments before the bylaws are introduced.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• Consent agenda motion supporting trustee‑electoral‑area model carried unanimously
• Mayor directed to attend May 28 trustee meeting and report back (unanimous)
• Director of Planning instructed to prepare OCP amendment and zoning bylaw amendments (unanimous)
• First and second reading of the bylaw amendments to be considered with a public hearing date set (unanimous)
• Staff directed to explore enhanced green‑roof, rain‑garden, shoreline restoration, and marine‑habitat measures (unanimous)
• Adoption of zoning bylaw amendment conditioned on registration of required legal agreements (unanimous)
• Recommendations adopted without creating legal rights or obligations for the City (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review three staff reports: the Urban Food Table feedback, the Energy and Carbon Emissions Reporting program for large buildings, and an update to the Code of Conduct for Council Members. The energy report includes a proposed enacting bylaw (Bylaw No. 25‑022) that would require large buildings to report their energy use and carbon emissions. The council will discuss whether to adopt the bylaw and any related recommendations.

• Urban Food Table – report back and recommendations
• Energy and Carbon Emissions Reporting for Large Buildings – report and proposed Bylaw No. 25‑022
• Code of Conduct for Council Members – review and recommended update
• Consent agenda items (unspecified)
• Notice of motions (unspecified)

The council approved a $1,400 annual grant increase for the Urban Food Table and directed staff to consult the table on all food‑system policies (7‑to‑2). It endorsed the Energy and Carbon Emissions Reporting program for large buildings, ordered Bylaw No. 25‑022 to be forwarded for readings, and set a September 1, 2026 date for the first year’s data report (unanimous). The Code of Conduct review was referred to late October 2025 (unanimous). The agenda and meeting were approved unanimously.

• Approved $1,400 grant increase for Urban Food Table and required staff consultation on all food‑system issues (7‑to‑2)
• Endorsed Energy and Carbon Emissions Reporting program for large buildings, forward Bylaw No. 25‑022 and report first‑year data by 1 Sept 2026 (unanimous)
• Referred Code of Conduct review to late Oct 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Removed Code of Conduct item from Consent Agenda

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council meeting on May 15, 2025 will consider the agenda, consent items, and reports from the Committee of the Whole. A key item is the adoption of Amendment Bylaw No. 25-033 to update the Demolition Waste and Deconstruction Bylaw. The council will also review two short‑term rental business licence appeals for properties at 201‑524 Yates Street and 2710 Mount Stephen Avenue.

• Adoption of Amendment Bylaw No. 25-033 to the Demolition Waste and Deconstruction Bylaw
• Short‑Term Rental Business Licence Appeal – 201‑524 Yates Street
• Short‑Term Rental Business Licence Appeal – 2710 Mount Stephen Avenue
• Council Member Motion: Additional Funding for the 125th Anniversary of the Victoria Day Parade and Allocation of Remaining MCIEG Funds
• Council Member Motion: 900 Block of Pandora Avenue Cleanliness – Dumpster Pilot Project

The council denied reconsideration requests for short‑term rental licences at 201‑524 Yates Street and 2710 Mount Stephen Avenue. It also adopted Amendment Bylaw No. 25‑033 for the Demolition Waste and Deconstruction Bylaw. In addition, motions to allocate remaining MCIEG funds, launch a dumpster pilot on Pandora Street, and study increased compensation for evicted tenants were all carried.

• Denied short‑term rental licence appeal for 201‑524 Yates Street (6 to 3)
• Denied short‑term rental licence appeal for 2710 Mount Stephen Avenue (unanimous)
• Adopted Demolition Waste and Deconstruction Bylaw Amendment No. 25‑033 (unanimous)
• Allocated remaining 2025 MCIEG program funds to existing programming (7 to 2)
• Approved 900‑block Pandora Street dumpster pilot, up to $3,600 plus $5,400 stipends (7 to 2)
• Directed staff to study increased compensation for evicted tenants (7 to 2)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Closed May 15 council meeting to the public (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will first approve the consent agenda minutes from prior meetings. It will then consider three land‑use items: an application for a new liquor primary licence at 1415 Broad Street, a rezoning and development permit for a twelve‑storey hotel at 603 Pandora Avenue (recommended for decline), and a recommendation to approve a provincial cannabis retail licence for Rise Cannabis Quadra at 3198 Quadra Street. A council member will also move to review the city’s retail cannabis business licensing regulations.

• Liquor Primary Licence application for 1415 Broad Street (306‑person venue, 7 pm‑2 am service) – recommendation to approve
• Rezoning, OCP amendment, development permit and heritage alteration for 603 Pandora Avenue – proposed twelve‑storey hotel, recommendation to decline
• Recommendation for Rise Cannabis Quadra at 3198 Quadra Street to obtain a provincial cannabis retail licence – recommendation to approve
• Council Member Motion to review retail cannabis business licensing regulations and consider repealing Bylaw 35(1)(a)
• Approval of consent agenda minutes from February 20, March 6 and April 14, 2025 meetings

The Committee of the Whole approved the meeting agenda and consent agenda items unanimously. Council unanimously approved a new liquor primary licence for Encore by Paparazzi at 1415 Broad Street. After several amendments, the council voted 7‑2 to refer the rezoning, development permit with variances, and heritage alteration applications for 603 Pandora Avenue back to staff with specific conditions. The meeting was briefly closed to the public under Section 90 of the Community Charter.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• Consent agenda items approved (unanimous)
• Approved liquor primary licence for 1415 Broad Street (unanimous)
• Referred 603 Pandora rezoning and related permits back to staff with conditions (7‑2)
• Closed meeting to public under Section 90 (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

Victoria City Council is reviewing several rezoning applications and bylaw amendments. The meeting includes a proposal for a 14-storey tower and townhouses, as well as updates to affordable housing and demolition waste standards.

• Rezoning and development permit for 205 Quebec Street, 507 Montreal Street, and 210-224 Kingston Street for a 14-storey tower and three-storey townhouses
• Adoption of rezoning for 515 and 519 Rithet Street to build a five-storey multi-unit strata residential building
• Amendment to the Affordable Housing Standards Bylaw to align with public housing body standards
• Amendment to the Demolition Waste and Deconstruction Bylaw regarding salvageable wood reporting
• Short-term rental business license appeal for 201-524 Yates Street

The council deferred a short‑term rental licence appeal and approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It adopted the Demolition Waste and Deconstruction Bylaw amendment unanimously. It gave first and second readings to the Official Community Plan amendment and the Zoning Regulation amendment, and approved a Development Permit with Variances for the three streets by a 7‑to‑2 vote.

• Deferred Short‑Term Rental Business License Appeal (H.1) – unanimous
• Approved Demolition Waste and Deconstruction Bylaw Amendment No. 25‑033 – unanimous
• Approved Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 56 (first & second readings)
• Approved Zoning Regulation Bylaw Amendment No. 1357 (first & second readings)
• Approved Development Permit with Variances No. 00191 for 205 Quebec St, 507 Montreal St, 210‑224 Kingston St (7‑2)
• Required legal agreements including $1,000,000 to Housing Reserve Fund and $200,000 to Local Amenities Fund (condition of rezoning)
• Approved minutes from February 20 2025 and March 06 2025 council meetings – unanimous
• Approved agenda as amended – unanimous

Council (to follow COTW)

Council will consider the adoption of the 2025 tax rates and the 2025-2029 Five Year Financial Plan. The meeting also includes decisions on rezoning, heritage designation, and liquor licenses.

• Bylaw No. 25-034: 2025-2029 Five Year Financial Plan
• Bylaw No. 25-029: 2025 Tax Rates
• Rezoning Application No. 00866: 2501-2699 Blanshard Street, 825/841 Hillside Avenue, 2500-2684 Dowler Place and 900 Kings Road
• Heritage Designation Application No. 000212: 646 Fisgard Street
• Liquor Licenses for 1325 Government Street (The Downbeat Event Centre) and 1302 Gladstone Avenue (Fernwood Inn)

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda. It removed a rezoning item from the consent agenda and added the 2024 financial statements. The council approved a heritage statement for 646 Fisgard Street and supported new liquor primary licences for The Downbeat Event Centre and Fernwood Inn. It increased the reimbursement limit for conflict‑of‑interest legal advice to $1,000 and directed staff to begin work on a zoning regulation bylaw for the Blanshard Street, Hillside Avenue, Dowler Place and Kings Road development.

• Agenda approval carried unanimously
• Removed rezoning application No. 00866 from consent agenda
• Added 2024 Financial Statements to consent agenda
• Approved heritage statement for 646 Fisgard Street and instructed preparation of heritage designation bylaw
• Supported liquor primary licence for The Downbeat Event Centre (210 occupants, 9 a.m.–2 a.m.)
• Supported liquor primary licence for Fernwood Inn (186 occupants, 9 a.m.–12 a.m.)
• Increased reimbursement limit for independent legal advice from $500 to $1,000
• Approved 2024 Financial Statements (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will consider the City's 2024 audited financial statements for formal acceptance. The meeting will also address several council member motions regarding community funding, street cleanliness, and tenant compensation.

• Acceptance of 2024 audited Financial Statements
• Additional funding for the 125th Anniversary of the Victoria Day Parade via MCIEG funds
• Proposed Dumpster Pilot Project by Our Place Society for the 900 block of Pandora Avenue
• Motion requesting greater compensation for tenants displaced by re-development
• Closed meeting regarding labour or employee relations

The Committee of the Whole approved the City’s 2024 audited financial statements and sent them to the daytime council for ratification. It approved allocating the remaining 2025 MCIEG funds to enhance programming between October and December 2025 (7‑2). It approved a three‑month dumpster pilot on the 900 block of Pandora Avenue, funded up to $3,600 plus $5,400 in stipends (7‑2). It also directed staff to study higher compensation for tenants displaced by redevelopment, with a vote of 5‑4.

• Approved 2024 Financial Statements (unanimous)
• Allocated remaining 2025 MCIEG funds to programming Oct‑Dec 2025 (7‑2)
• Approved 900 Pandora Avenue dumpster pilot, up to $3,600 plus $5,400 stipends (7‑2)
• Directed staff to consider increased compensation for displaced tenants (5‑4)
• Approved minutes from Jan 30 2025 Committee meeting (consent agenda)
• Approved minutes from Mar 13 2025 Committee meeting (consent agenda)

Council (to follow COTW)

Council is considering several bylaws to establish tax rates, boulevard taxes, and the 2025-2029 Five Year Financial Plan. The meeting also includes decisions on rezoning applications and a report regarding the U.S. trade war.

• Bylaw No. 25-034: 2025-2029 Five Year Financial Plan
• Bylaw No. 25-029: 2025 Tax Rates
• Rezoning Application No. 00882: 1312-1324 Broad Street and 615-625 Johnson Street
• Rezoning Application No. 00859: 1905-1907 Fort Street and 1923-1929 Davie Street
• Application to increase licensed service capacity at 910 Government Street

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda and removed three items from the consent agenda, including the 2025‑2029 Five Year Financial Plan bylaw. The Business Improvement Area Rate Bylaw and the Boulevard Tax Bylaw each received first, second, and third readings and were carried unanimously. Council instructed the Director of Planning and Development to prepare zoning bylaw amendments for the Duck's Block site on Broad and Johnson Streets and for the Fort/Davie Street site, and waived a public hearing for the former.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• Consent agenda items approved: 2025‑2029 Five Year Financial Plan, 2025 Tax Rates, 2025 Developmental Potential Annual Property Relief
• Business Improvement Area Rate Bylaw, 2025, No. 25-030 given first‑second‑third readings and carried unanimously
• Boulevard Tax Bylaw, 2025, No. 25-031 given first‑second‑third readings and carried unanimously
• Directed preparation of zoning bylaw amendment for 1314 Broad Street (Duck's Block) and waived public hearing
• Directed preparation of zoning regulation bylaw amendment for 1905/1907 Fort Street and 1923/1929 Davie Street

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review and vote on several motions, including a motion to create a task force to fund the Victoria Book Prizes and Poet Laureate programs, a motion on 2025‑2026 property tax considerations, and a motion regarding Waterfront Villages. The meeting will also consider the consent agenda items and approve minutes from previous meetings. Additional business includes notice of motions and any required closed session.

• Council Member Motion: Waterfront Villages (CMM_Waterfront villages.pdf)
• Council Member Motion: Victoria Book Prizes and Poet Laureate Programs – request to create a task force for funding (CMM_Victoria Book Prizes and Poet Laureate Programs.pdf)
• Council Member Motion: 2025‑2026 Property Tax considerations – proposal to balance new expenditures with reductions and minimize tax shifts (CMM_2025-2026 Property Tax considerations.pdf)
• Approval of agenda and consent agenda items, including minutes from Feb 06 2025 and Mar 03 2025 meetings
• Consideration and approval of minutes from prior Committee of the Whole meetings

The Committee approved the consent agenda, including minutes from February 6 and March 3, 2025. A motion to refer the Victoria Book Prizes and Poet Laureate Programs to the July 17, 2025 Committee of the Whole was carried unanimously. An amendment requiring a source for any new expenditure and setting a September 2026 sunset clause was adopted 5‑4, while the original property‑tax motion was defeated 5‑4.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda minutes from Feb 6 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda minutes from Mar 3 2025 (unanimous)
• Referred Victoria Book Prizes and Poet Laureate Programs motion to July 17 2025 (unanimous)
• Adopted amendment requiring source for new expenditures and 2026 sunset clause (5‑4)
• Defeated original property‑tax motion (5‑4)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review applications for new primary liquor licences at 1325 Government Street, which proposes a 210‑person capacity and service from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m., and at 1302 Gladstone Avenue, which seeks to change from a food to a liquor primary licence while keeping an 186‑person capacity and hours of 9 a.m. to 12 a.m. Both reports recommend approval. The meeting will also consider a heritage designation for 646 Fisgard Street and several council‑member motions on funding for the Victoria Day Parade and participation in the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.

• 646 Fisgard Street – Heritage Designation Application No. 000212 (downtown) – recommendation to proceed to bylaw readings and public hearing
• 1325 Government Street – Liquor licence application for a new primary licence, 210‑person occupant load, service 9 a.m.–2 a.m., recommendation for approval
• 1302 Gladstone Avenue – Liquor licence application to change from food to liquor primary licence, 186‑person occupant load, service 9 a.m.–12 a.m., recommendation for approval
• Update to City Policy on Reimbursement of Council Members for Conflict Legal Advice – recommendation to increase per‑occurrence limit
• Council Member Motions: additional funding for the 125th Victoria Day Parade (MCIEG funds) and approval for Councillor Coleman’s participation and attendance at the Federation of Canadian Municipalities national board and 2025 AGM

Council adopted the 2025 tax rates to achieve a 3.5 : 1 business‑to‑residential ratio, approved heritage designation for 646 Fisgard Street, and authorized several liquor licences. The city also approved $25,000 for the 125th Victoria Day Parade and a $4,494.79 travel package for Councillor Coleman to attend the FCM 2025 AGM. An amendment to increase youth‑programming grants by $35,000 was defeated.

• Approved 2025 tax rates (Residential 3.3749%, Utility 39.9997%, Major Industrial 10.8602%, Light Industrial 11.5372%, Business 11.8167%, Rec/Non‑Profit 7.1920%) (7‑2)
• Approved heritage designation for 646 Fisgard Street and instructed preparation of the heritage bylaw (unanimous)
• Approved liquor primary licence for 1302 Gladstone Avenue (Fernwood Inn) (unanimous)
• Approved liquor primary licence for 1325 Government Street (The Downbeat Event Centre) (unanimous)
• Approved one‑time $25,000 funding for the 125th Victoria Day Parade (unanimous)
• Authorized Councillor Coleman to attend the FCM 2025 AGM with expenses totaling $4,494.79 (unanimous)
• Increased reimbursement limit for council members’ conflict‑of‑interest legal advice from $500 to $1,000 (consent agenda, approved)
• Amendment to increase Youth Programming grant by $5,000 per community centre ($35,000 total) defeated (opposed by 3)

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council meeting on April 17, 2025 will review and vote on several bylaws and motions following the Committee of the Whole. Items include an amendment to the Affordable Housing Standards Bylaw, rezoning and development variance for 1911‑1913 Belmont Avenue, a housing agreement for 2805 Cook Street, updates to the Patio Regulation fee schedule, and changes to the Parks Regulation concerning overnight sheltering. The council will also consider a short‑term rental licence appeal for 1403‑760 Johnson Street and consent agenda items such as Canada Day funding and motions on the FCM Convention and Doric Connector completion.

• Amendment Bylaw for Affordable Housing Standards Bylaw (No. 25-028)
• Bylaw for 1911 and 1913 Belmont Avenue: Rezoning Application No. 00879 and Development Variance Permit No. 00289
• Bylaw for 2805 Cook Street: Housing Agreement (No. 25-023)
• Amendment Bylaw for Patio Regulation Bylaw (No. 25-024) – fee schedule updates and refunds
• Amendment Bylaw for Parks Regulation Bylaw (No. 25-011) – overnight sheltering provisions

Council approved $130,000 for the 2025 Canada Day celebrations and authorized Councillor Caradonna’s attendance at the FCM conference with a total cost of $4,663.40. The council directed continuation of Phase 1 of the Doric Connector using up to $350,000 from the Local Amenities Reserve. It instructed the Director of Planning and Development to update the Official Community Plan, design guidelines, zoning modernization, site‑servicing and rezoning policies, set tree‑canopy targets, and to bring forward bylaws to replace the OCP, Zoning Bylaw 2018, and several other bylaws. Additional actions included drafting engineering bylaws for late‑comer charges, redefining the Servicing Officer role, rescinding the Supervisor Land Development as Deputy Approving Officer and appointing the Manager – Land Development, and increasing advocacy for transit to support housing growth.

• Approved $130,000 Canada Day funding (unanimous)
• Authorized Councillor Caradonna’s FCM conference travel costing $4,663.40
• Directed continuation of Doric Connector Phase 1 with up to $350,000 (unanimous)
• Instructed Director of Planning to update OCP, design guidelines, zoning modernization, site‑servicing and rezoning policy
• Directed staff to prepare replacement OCP bylaw and repeal Zoning Bylaw 2018
• Directed Engineering to draft bylaws for late‑comer charges and Servicing Officer role
• Rescinded Supervisor Land Development as Deputy Approving Officer; appointed Manager – Land Development
• Mandated increased transit advocacy to support housing and population growth

Special Committee of the Whole

The Special Committee of the Whole will discuss Rezoning Application No. 00866 for properties at 2501‑2699 Blanshard Street, 825/841 Hillside Avenue, 2500‑2684 Dowler Place and 900 Kings Road. The application seeks to change the area from the R3‑2 Multiple Dwelling District to a comprehensive development zone to increase density, and recommends moving the proposal to bylaw readings. The meeting also includes standard items such as a territorial acknowledgement, approval of the agenda, and notice of motions.

• Rezoning Application No. 00866 for 2501‑2699 Blanshard St, 825/841 Hillside Ave, 2500‑2684 Dowler Pl and 900 Kings Rd – recommendation to proceed to bylaw readings

The meeting agenda was approved unanimously. Council discussed Rezoning Application No. 00866 for the properties at 2501‑2699 Blanshard Street, 825/841 Hillside Avenue, 2500‑2684 Dowler Place and 900 Kings Road. Several motions were moved and seconded, directing staff to prepare a zoning‑regulation bylaw amendment, to discuss adding more affordable homes, and to set conditions for the bylaw readings and a Master Development Agreement.

• Agenda approved (unanimously)
• Council moved and seconded motion to direct the Director of Planning and Development to prepare a zoning‑regulation bylaw amendment for the Blanshard Street site
• Council moved and seconded motion to direct staff to discuss adding more affordable homes with the applicant
• Council moved and seconded motion that first, second and third readings of the bylaw will occur after notification and revisions to the Rezoning Book dated Dec 16 2024
• Council moved and seconded motion requiring the applicant to prepare and execute a Master Development Agreement before the bylaw is adopted

Council (to follow COTW)

Victoria City Council will consider three bylaws: updating patio fee rates, amending park sheltering regulations, and approving a housing agreement for 2805 Cook Street. The meeting will also include a closed session for personnel and labour relations matters.

• Patio Regulation Bylaw (No. 25-024) to update 2025-2026 fee rates
• Parks Regulation Bylaw (No. 25-011) to regulate overnight sheltering
• Housing Agreement Bylaw (No. 25-023) for 2805 Cook Street
• Outdoor Patio Program 2025 & 2026 Fee Schedule Update
• Council Member Motion: FCM 2025 Annual Conference expenses

The council unanimously approved the Outdoor Patio Program 2025‑2026 fee schedule update and authorized Councillor Kim to attend the FCMA 2025 conference with a total cost of $4,378.60. It also passed several amendment bylaws, including changes to the Patio Regulation, Parks Regulation, Bylaw Notice Adjudication, Ticket, Property in Custody, and a housing agreement for 2805 Cook Street. A motion to close part of the meeting to the public under Section 90 of the Community Charter was carried unanimously.

• Approved Outdoor Patio Program 2025 & 2026 fee schedule update (unanimous)
• Authorized Councillor Kim's attendance at FCMA 2025 conference, total cost $4,378.60 (unanimous)
• Passed Amendment Bylaw No. 4 to Patio Regulation Bylaw (unanimous)
• Passed amendment bylaws for Parks Regulation, Bylaw Notice Adjudication, Ticket, Property in Custody (8‑1, opposed by Councillor Kim)
• Approved Housing Agreement Bylaw for 2805 Cook Street (unanimous)
• Approved motion to close meeting to public under Section 90 (unanimous)

Council

Council is meeting to consider an application to designate the exterior of the building at 1132 and 1134 Empress Avenue as protected heritage property. The meeting also includes several requests from residents to address the council on homelessness and cycling.

• Public hearing and 3rd reading of Heritage Designation (1132 Empress Avenue) Bylaw No. 25-004
• Request to address council regarding medical exemptions for tents in a park
• Request to address council regarding wayfinding for cycling routes
• Request to address council regarding housing solutions for the 900 block
• Request to address council regarding an amended rezoning application for a hotel in Old Town Victoria

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda and permitted listed speakers to address council. It also unanimously passed the third reading of Heritage Designation Bylaw No. 25-004 for 1132 Empress Avenue. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Permitted speakers to address council (unanimous)
• Approved Heritage Designation (1132 Empress Avenue) Bylaw No. 25-004, third reading (unanimous)
• Adjourned council meeting (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review rezoning applications for the Duck's Block and Fort Street/Davie Street, an application to increase service capacity at an axe-throwing venue, and updates to the outdoor patio program fee schedule.

• Rezoning 1312-1324 Broad St and 615-625 Johnson St (Duck's Block)
• Rezoning 1905-1907 Fort St and 1923-1929 Davie St
• Increase licensed service capacity at 910 Government St (Axe and Grind)
• Update Outdoor Patio Program 2025-2026 fee schedule
• Report back on response to U.S. trade war

The Committee approved the Outdoor Patio Program 2025‑2026 fee schedule update and forwarded it for council readings. Council unanimously authorized $4,378.60 for Councillor Kim to attend the FCMA 2025 conference. The council also approved the rezoning and heritage alteration for 1314 Broad Street, waiving the public hearing requirement.

• Approved Outdoor Patio Program 2025‑2026 fee schedule update (unanimous)
• Authorized $4,378.60 for Councillor Kim to attend FCMA 2025 conference (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning and heritage alteration for 1314 Broad Street, waiving public hearing (unanimous)

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council will consider a series of rezoning and development permit applications, including projects at 3106 Washington Avenue, 1132/1134 Empress Avenue, and 131‑139 Menzies Street. It will also review a tax‑incentive bylaw for the heritage building at 2659 Douglas Street and a budget recommendation for the Downtown Victoria Business Association. Additional motions on affordable housing and the Aquatics and Wellness Centre will be discussed, and part of the meeting will be closed under the Community Charter.

• Rezoning and Development Permit applications for 3106 Washington Avenue (Burnside)
• Rezoning and Development Permit applications for 1132 and 1134 Empress Avenue
• Rezoning and Development Permit applications for 131, 135, and 139 Menzies Street
• Tax Incentive Program bylaw for 2659 Douglas Street heritage building
• Downtown Victoria Business Association 2025 budget report

The council approved the agenda and consent items, including minutes from the February 13 meetings. It unanimously approved the City of Victoria as host of the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities (AVICC) AGM and Convention in 2026, with an in‑kind contribution of up to $28,000 and a cash contribution of up to $1,000. The council also carried a motion (8‑1) directing the Mayor to advocate to the province for changes to the Amenity Cost Charge policy to support affordable housing. Additional items approved on the consent agenda included instructions for rezoning 3106 Washington Avenue, drafting Parks Regulation Bylaw amendments on sheltering, and actions to mitigate impacts of the Crystal Pool closure.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Feb 13 daytime and evening meetings (consent agenda)
• Approved hosting AVICC 2026 with up to $28,000 in‑kind and $1,000 cash (unanimous)
• Carried motion directing Mayor to advocate for provincial Amenity Cost Charge policy change (8‑1)
• Approved instruction to City Solicitor to draft Parks Regulation Bylaw amendments on sheltering (consent agenda)
• Approved instructions for rezoning, development permit and variance for 3106 Washington Ave (consent agenda)
• Approved motion to mitigate impacts of Crystal Pool closure (unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will approve the agenda, adopt the consent agenda, and consider minutes from the February 13 and February 27 meetings. It will review the draft Official Community Plan update and discuss a rezoning application for 2501‑2699 Blanshard Street, 825/841 Hillside Avenue, 2500‑2684 Dowler Place and 900 Kings Road. Additional items include Canada Day Funding of up to $100,000 and several council‑member motions on conference attendance, hosting AVICC 2026, urban forest canopy fees, Doric Connector completion, and property‑tax considerations.

• Rezoning Application No. 00866 for 2501‑2699 Blanshard Street, 825/841 Hillside Avenue, 2500‑2684 Dowler Place and 900 Kings Road
• Canada Day Funding 2025 allocation of up to $100,000 from the MCIEG program
• Council Member Motion to authorize attendance and costs for Councillor Caradonna at the 2025 FCM Convention in Ottawa
• Council Member Motion to host the AVICC AGM and Convention April 24‑26, 2026 at the Victoria Conference Centre
• Council Member Motion proposing increased cash‑in‑lieu fees to incentivize tree replacement (Urban Forest Canopy)

The council approved an agenda amendment and consent items, and unanimously authorized Councillor Caradonna to attend the 2025 FCM Conference (cost $4,663.40). It instructed the Director of Planning and Development to revise the draft Official Community Plan (Victoria 2050), update related design guidelines, zoning modernization, and several supporting bylaws. The council also directed the Director of Engineering and Public Works to bring forward a late‑comer service charge bylaw, designate a Servicing Officer role, rescind the Supervisor Land Development as Deputy Approving Officer and appoint the Manager – Land Development to that role, and to increase advocacy for transit improvements.

• Agenda amendment moving item J.3 to F.2 approved unanimously
• Consent agenda items (Canada Day Funding 2025 and AVICC hosting motion) approved
• Authorized Councillor Caradonna to attend 2025 FCM Conference; total cost $4,663.40 (unanimous)
• Directed Director of Planning and Development to update the draft Official Community Plan and related design, zoning, and site‑servicing documents
• Directed Director of Planning and Development to bring forward replacement OCP bylaw and associated bylaws (zoning, amenity cost charge, tenant protection, subdivision and servicing)
• Directed Director of Engineering and Public Works to bring forward a late‑comer service charge bylaw and a Servicing Officer designation bylaw
• Rescinded appointment of Supervisor Land Development as Deputy Approving Officer and appointed Manager – Land Development to that role
• Directed increased advocacy through regional transit bodies for improved transit service and infrastructure

Council

The agenda consists of procedural items and requests from residents to address the Council. No specific legislative decisions or contracts are listed for this meeting.

• Public participation requests regarding the Proposed Official Community Plan
• Public participation requests regarding the redesign of Centennial Square
• Public participation requests regarding the urban forest and natural assets
• Public participation requests regarding homelessness and affordable housing

Council (to follow COTW)

The March 13 council meeting, held after the Committee of the Whole, will consider a consent agenda that includes financial plan reports, a heritage designation for Empress Avenue, several development permits and rezoning proposals, and a loan authorization to borrow up to $168,900,000 for the Crystal Pool and Fitness Centre replacement. Additional items include a short‑term rental licence appeal for a property on Johnson Street and closed‑session business under the Community Charter.

• Bylaw No. 24-054: Loan Authorization to borrow up to $168,900,000 for Crystal Pool Replacement
• Bylaw No. 25-004: Heritage Designation for 1132 & 1134 Empress Avenue
• Bylaw No. 25-017: Development Permit with Variances for 1050 Yates Street, requiring all units to be rental for the greater of 60 years or the building’s life
• Rezoning and Development Permit for 1900 Richmond Road and Ashgrove Street lots to create a senior multi‑unit rental building
• Short‑Term Rental Business Licence Appeal for 1403‑760 Johnson Street

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will approve the consent agenda, including minutes from the Jan 23, 2025 meeting. It will consider a rezoning application for 3106 Washington Avenue (Development Permit No. 00289 and Development Variance Permit No. 00290) to create a new lot and allow four single‑family dwellings with secondary suites. A staff report on the Crystal Pool Replacement Project will be presented for site selection and next steps. Additional items include a budget presentation by the Downtown Victoria Business Association and three council member motions on the aquatics centre, affordable‑housing policy, and the Border Mayors Alliance.

• Consent agenda: minutes from Committee of the Whole meeting Jan 23, 2025
• Rezoning Application No. 00856 for 3106 Washington Avenue (DPV 00289, DVP 00290)
• Crystal Pool Replacement Project – site selection and next steps report
• Downtown Victoria Business Association 2025 budget presentation
• Council member motions: mitigate Crystal Pool closure, amend amenity cost charge policy, contribute to Border Mayors Alliance

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing the draft Official Community Plan known as Victoria 2050. This includes discussing associated policy and bylaw updates for implementation. The body is also considering a motion to create a task force for the Victoria Book Prizes and Poet Laureate programs.

• Draft Official Community Plan (Victoria 2050)
• Proposed Amenity Cost Charge Bylaw
• Proposed Tenant Protection Bylaw
• Draft Rezoning and Development Policy
• Motion to create a task force for Victoria Book Prizes and Poet Laureate funding

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council will consider a motion to close the March 6, 2025 meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter. The closed agenda includes discussion of litigation and solicitor‑client privileged advice, and several items are deferred to a March 13 closed meeting. The council will also review consent‑agenda items such as a liquor licence for 301 Cook Street (Beagle Pub) and updates to the Deconstruction Bylaw.

• Motion to close the March 6 meeting to the public (Section 90)
• Liquor licence application for 301 Cook Street (Beagle Pub) – Fairfield
• Deconstruction Bylaw updates and improvements
• Litigation/Legal Advice – Community Charter Sections 90(1)(g) and 90(1)(i)
• Law Enforcement/Intergovernmental Relations – deferred to March 13 closed meeting

Special Committee of the Whole

The Special Committee of the Whole will consider the City’s 2025‑2029 Draft Financial Plan, reviewing related reports on the police board Section 27 appeal, the Crystal Pool replacement referendum, and tax‑increase reduction options. The committee will also examine the 2025 provisional police budget. Procedural items such as the territorial acknowledgement, agenda approval, and notice of motions will be addressed.

• Review of the 2025‑2029 Draft Financial Plan
• Consideration of the 2025 provisional police budget
• Impact of Province’s decision on Victoria‑Esquimalt Police Board Section 27 appeal
• Impact of Crystal Pool Replacement Project referendum result
• Tax increase reduction options for the 2025‑2029 plan

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will receive reports on the 2025‑2029 Draft Financial Plan, including the impacts of the province’s Section 27 police appeal and the Crystal Pool referendum result. It will review the Draft Official Community Plan “Victoria 2050” and related regulatory updates. Council will consider a motion to allocate $100,000 from the 2025 budget to Our Place Society for operating hours and storage.

• Council Member Motion: $100,000 grant to Our Place Society for operating hours and storage (New Business)
• Report on impact of Province’s Section 27 police appeal on the 2025‑2029 Draft Financial Plan
• Report on impact of the Crystal Pool Replacement Project referendum on the 2025‑2029 Draft Financial Plan
• Draft Official Community Plan “Victoria 2050” with regulatory directions (amenity cost charge bylaw, tenant protection bylaw, rezoning policy)
• Presentation of the 2025‑2029 Draft Financial Plan and tax increase reduction options

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review the minutes from the Jan 16 meeting, hear the Victoria Police Department’s Q4 2024 report, and consider updates to the Deconstruction Bylaw. It will decide on a liquor‑licence application for the Beagle Pub at 301 Cook Street, which seeks approval for a 26‑person outdoor patio under the TESA program. Council members will also move to authorize travel expenses for the AVICC 2025 Convention and the High Ground Conference.

• Liquor licence application for 301 Cook Street (Beagle Pub) – approval recommendation
• Deconstruction Bylaw updates and minor amendments
• Council member motion to fund attendance at AVICC 2025 Convention (Nanaimo)
• Council member motion to fund attendance at High Ground Conference (Vancouver, March 7‑8 2025)
• Victoria Police Department 2024 Quarter 4 report

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council will consider the consent agenda, which includes minutes from the January 16, 2025 council meeting and the appointment of an external auditor. It will receive reports from the Committee of the Whole, including the February 6, 2025 report and a report on the 2025 Crystal Pool referendum results held on February 8, 2025. The council will also move to close part of the meeting under Community Charter Section 90 for matters involving labour relations, law enforcement, and intergovernmental negotiations.

• Consent agenda: minutes from the Daytime Council Meeting held January 16, 2025
• Council appointment of external auditor
• Report from the February 6, 2025 Committee of the Whole meeting
• Report on 2025 Crystal Pool referendum results (referendum held February 8, 2025)
• Motion to close part of the February 20, 2025 council meeting under Community Charter Section 90

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review the 2025-2029 Draft Financial Plan, including a provisional police budget and property tax increase reduction scenarios. The meeting also includes a presentation on the Capital Regional District Budget and a motion regarding the US trade war.

• 2025-2029 Draft Financial Plan
• Property tax increase reduction options
• 2025 Provisional Police Budget
• Capital Regional District Budget presentation
• Council Member Motion: Victoria Response to Trump’s Trade War

Council

The Victoria City Council meeting will include a series of public presentations on homelessness, affordable housing, short‑term rental licensing, hotel definitions, and tree preservation. A formal rezoning request to change the Janion property to a hotel will also be presented. No motions or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Debra Sheets: Rezoning the Janion as a Hotel (in‑person)
• Brent Furdyk: Presentation on the short‑term rental licence application process
• Abigail Turner: "Stop the Sweeps" presentation
• Marylou Coyle: "When is a Hotel Not a Hotel" presentation
• Moira Walker: Presentation on retaining the Sequoia tree in Centennial Square

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council will first approve the meeting agenda and then consider the consent agenda, which includes minutes from the December 12, 2024 and January 9, 2025 council meetings. The council will also discuss the rezoning application (No. 00879) and Development Variance Permit (No. 00289) for 1911 and 1913 Belmont Avenue in the Fernwood neighbourhood. A report from the January 30, 2025 Committee of the Whole will be presented.

• Approval of agenda
• Consent agenda: minutes from Dec 12 2024 and Jan 9 2025 council meetings
• Rezoning Application No. 00879 for 1911 & 1913 Belmont Avenue (Fernwood)
• Development Variance Permit No. 00289 for the same address
• Report from the Jan 30 2025 Committee of the Whole

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council will consider a motion to provide a $125,000 grant to the Other Guise Theatre to help acquire 716 Johnson Street. The council will also rise and report on the Crystal Pool Replacement Project resolution from the September 12, 2024 Closed Council meeting. Several agenda items will be moved to a closed session under Community Charter sections covering labour relations, security, law enforcement, solicitor‑client privilege, preliminary service negotiations, and employee relations. The Mayor’s Report and routine approvals will also be addressed.

• Proposed $125,000 grant to Other Guise Theatre for acquisition of 716 Johnson Street
• Rise and report on Crystal Pool Replacement Project (Sept 12, 2024 resolution)
• Motion to close part of the meeting under Community Charter sections 90(1)(c,d,f,i,k) and 90(2)(b)
• Mayor’s Report to Council
• Closed‑session topics: legal advice, preliminary service negotiations, security, law enforcement/intergovernmental relations, employee relations

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will consider the appointment of the City’s external auditor for the 2025‑2029 financial reporting period. It will review public input on the 2025‑2029 draft financial plan. Council members will also consider motions to oppose the Capital Regional District’s Foodlands Access Service Establishment Bylaw and to request an apology from Councillor Caradonna to Councillor Hammond.

• Council appointment of external auditor for 2025‑2029 financial reporting years
• Report on public input for the 2025‑2029 Draft Financial Plan
• Motion to oppose Capital Regional District Bylaw No. 4602 (Foodlands Access Service Establishment Bylaw No. 1, 2024)
• Motion requesting an apology from Councillor Caradonna to Councillor Hammond

Council (to follow COTW)

The Jan 30, 2025 council meeting includes a closed session under Community Charter Section 90. Council will consider two rezoning bylaws—837 Broughton Street and 710 Caledonia Avenue—each with associated development variance permits. The agenda also contains a heritage alteration permit for 15 Bastion Square and a rise and report on the Crystal Pool Replacement Project.

• Bylaw for 837 Broughton Street: rezoning to RMD-4 zone for a seven‑storey mixed‑use building with approximately 42 rental units
• Bylaw for 710 Caledonia Avenue: rezoning to update the zone and remove the bonus‑density provision
• Heritage Alteration Permit Application No. 00285 for 15 Bastion Square (Downtown)
• Motion to close the Jan 30, 2025 council meeting to the public under Section 90 of the Community Charter
• Rise and report: Crystal Pool Replacement Project presentation

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss a rezoning application to legalize unauthorized work at 1911 and 1913 Belmont Avenue. The meeting also includes a budget update from the Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board and motions regarding CRD budget impacts.

• Rezoning Application No. 00879 and Development Variance Permit No. 00289 for 1911 and 1913 Belmont Avenue
• Victoria and Esquimalt Police Board 2025 Draft Budget Update presentation
• Motion requesting staff report on Capital Regional District (CRD) budget increases and taxpayer impacts
• Motion for authorization of expenses for the Canadian Capital Cities Organization Winter Meeting
• Motion requesting an apology from Councillor Caradonna to Councillor Hammond

Council (to follow COTW)

At the Jan 23, 2025 council meeting, members will consider the consent agenda, review reports from the Committee of the Whole, and adopt several bylaws affecting 515 Foul Bay Road, including rezoning, a development permit with variances, and a heritage designation. The council will also discuss motions and items that will be handled in a closed session under the Community Charter.

• Adopt Bylaw No. 24‑048: zoning amendment rezoning 515 Foul Bay Road
• Adopt Bylaw No. 24‑039: heritage designation for 515 Foul Bay Road
• Adopt Bylaw No. 25‑012: housing agreement for 515 Foul Bay Road
• Liquor licence applications for 1200 Government Street (Irish Times Pub) and 1022 Government Street (Bard & Banker Pub)
• Zone Text Amendment & Development Permit with Variances for 257 Belleville Street (James Bay)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss three Council Member Motions. These include a request for a property acquisition grant, a request for a support letter for climate resilience grants, and a request regarding advertising for the Crystal Pool referendum.

• Proposed $125,000 grant from the Major Community Events and Initiatives Grant to The Other Guise Theatre Company for 716 Johnson Street
• Motion to support a grant application for integrating FireSmart and ClimateSmart data
• Motion regarding advertising for the Crystal Pool referendum

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is reviewing a grant request to refinance a property and a heritage permit for a mural. The meeting includes a report on protecting city investments regarding a community grant.

• Other Guise Society request for a $250,000 Major Community Initiatives and Events Grant to refinance 716 Johnson Street
• Heritage Alteration Permit Application No. 00285 for 15 Bastion Square to allow an existing mural to remain

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council will vote on first, second and third readings of several zoning and housing bylaws. Items include rezoning and a development permit for 50 Douglas Street to increase density and allow a six‑storey assisted‑living building, rezoning of 320 Cook Street and 1075 Pendergast Street for mixed commercial uses, rezoning of 1885 Government Street for a six‑storey residential rental with heritage designation, a housing agreement for 515 Foul Bay Road, and a temporary borrowing bylaw for city expenditures.

• Rezoning and development permit for 50 Douglas Street – density increase to 2.45:1 FSR, six‑storey assisted‑living building
• Rezoning of 320 Cook Street and 1075 Pendergast Street – amend zoning to CR‑3M for office, service, retail and professional uses
• Rezoning of 1885 Government Street – six‑storey residential rental with ground‑floor commercial, heritage designation
• Housing Agreement for 515 Foul Bay Road – authorize rental housing on the site
• Temporary Borrowing Bylaw 2025 – authorize borrowing to meet current lawful city expenditures

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will consider a consent agenda that includes approval of minutes from previous meetings, liquor licence applications for 1200 and 1022 Government Street, a rezoning and development permit for 257 Belleville Street, staff reports on minimum unit size for multi‑unit residential projects and a petition to reinstate a block of Government Street to the Taxed Boulevard Program, and several council member motions. New business motions request authorization for a CCCO winter meeting, distribution of mayoral letters, and direction on city committees. The meeting also features a territorial acknowledgement and an introduction of late items.

• Approve liquor licence for 1200 Government Street (24‑person outdoor patio)
• Approve liquor licence for 1022 Government Street (80‑person outdoor patio)
• Approve rezoning and development permit for 257 Belleville Street (≈35 units)
• Staff report on Minimum Unit Size for Multi‑Unit Residential Developments
• Petition to reinstate 2200 block of Government Street to Taxed Boulevard Program

Council

The Victoria City Council will hold public hearings and consider third‑reading motions for heritage designation bylaws for 522 St. Charles Street (Bylaw No. 24‑040) and 1601 Douglas Street (Bylaw No. 24‑079). The meeting also includes a poetry reading, a territorial acknowledgement, and a series of presentations on rent‑bank trends, eviction protection, homelessness, bike‑lane planning, and arts investment. Council will approve the agenda and address any late items before adjourning.

• Public hearing and 3rd reading of Heritage Designation (522 St. Charles Street) Bylaw No. 24‑040
• Public hearing and 3rd reading of Heritage Designation (1601 Douglas Street) Bylaw No. 24‑079
• Presentation by Shelley Cook (Community Social Planning Council) on Greater Victoria Rent Bank trends for 2024/2025
• Presentation by Melissa Giles (BC Rent Bank, VanCity Community Foundation) on why eviction protection matters
• Presentation by Lyall Atkinson on a bike lane on the 900‑1000 block of Tolmie

Council (to follow COTW)

The Victoria City Council meeting will approve the agenda, review minutes from recent council sessions, and receive reports from the Committee of the Whole. Council members will consider and potentially adopt Bylaw No. 25-005, the 2025 Temporary Borrowing Bylaw, which authorizes borrowing to meet current lawful expenditures. They will also consider Bylaw No. 24-078 to rezone 1035 Russell Street for corner townhouses and approve Development Permit with Variances No. 00266. Additional items include discussion of closed‑meeting matters under Community Charter sections 90(1) and 90(2).

• Adoption of Bylaw No. 25-005 – 2025 Temporary Borrowing Bylaw
• Adoption of Bylaw No. 24-078 – rezoning 1035 Russell Street to Missing Middle Corner Townhouses and approval of Development Permit with Variances No. 00266
• Approval of consent agenda items: minutes from council meetings on Oct 17, Oct 24, Nov 7, Nov 14, Nov 21, and Nov 28, 2024
• Consideration of closed agenda items under Community Charter sections 90(1)(c), 90(1)(f), 90(1)(k), 90(1)(i), and 90(2)(b)
• Report from the Committee of the Whole meeting held Jan 9, 2025