Regular Council Meeting December 15, 2008
Posted by admin in : Fernie , add a comment1) Mogul Smoker 2008
Council approved the issuance of a special occasion license for the 2008 Mogul Smoker Event to be held at 50 Coal Creek Road and approved the request from Mr. Richard Belliveau, event organizer to allow liquor service at the event until 2:00 am on December 21, 2008.
2) RDEK – ElkValley & South Country Emergency Program Service Establishment Bylaw No. 2124
The Regional District of East Kootenay proposes to adopt Bylaw No. 2124, cited as the “Regional District of East Kootenay – Elk Valley and South Country Emergency Program Service Establishment Bylaw No. 2124, 2008” which will include the District of Sparwood in a regional emergency program within Electoral Areas ‘A’ and ‘B’ the City of Fernie, District of Sparwood and District of Elkford.
Council consented on behalf of the electors of the City of Fernie to the adoption of the proposed RDEK Bylaw No. 2124. The maximum requisition for the proposed service remains the same as for the existing service in Electoral Areas ‘A’ and ‘B’, the City of Fernie and District of Elkford.
3) Fernie Memorial Arena Concession Lease Agreement
Council authorized the Mayor and Clerk to execute the lease agreement on behalf of the City from December 15, to April 20th, 2011 with Kendar Holdings Ltd. who will operate the concession at the Fernie Memorial Arena.
4) Disposal of City lands (grant of statutory right-of-way to BC Hydro for medium voltage transmission line and option to purchase 34 acre parcel of City land)
Council approved the agreement between 736402 Alberta Ltd., and the City of Fernie to provide compensation ($200,000) and additional compensation (repair and relocation of portions of the Coal Creek Heritage Trail) (the “SRW Compensation Agreement”) and authorized the Mayor and Chief Administrative Officer to execute the Agreement on behalf of the City.
Further to this, upon payment of the compensation pursuant to the SRW Compensation Agreement and posting of security as required for the trail repair and relocation, City Council will approve the disposal (grant of statutory rights-of-way to BC Hydro and Power Authority) of City lands over Lot 1, District Lot 4589, Kootenay District Plan NEP20274 and Lots 2, 3, 4 and 6, District Lot 4589, Kootenay District Plan NEP22339 and authorized the Mayor and Chief Administrative Officer to the execute the statutory rights-of-way on behalf of the City.
City Council also approved the disposal (entering into an Option to Purchase Agreement) of City lands (Lot 1, DL 4589, KD, Plan NEP22339 - 150 Coal Creek Road) to 736402 Alberta Ltd. and authorized the Mayor and Chief Administrative Officer to execute the Option to Purchase Agreement on behalf of the City and to do all acts & deeds and execute such documents as are required to fulfill the intent of that Agreement.
The Option to Purchase Agreement includes, among other things,: a purchase price of $1,200,000; a non-refundable option fee of $120,000 (forms part of the purchase price if the option is exercised) permitting the option to be exercised until May 31, 2009; an Option extension on payment of a further $50,000 until August 31, 2009; consolidation of the lands with adjacent lands of the purchaser; registration of a restrictive covenant providing that the lands and other lands owned by 736402 Alberta Ltd and 743134 BC Ltd will not be subdivided nor any buildings constructed until certain conditions pertaining to construction of an 18 hole golf course are met.
These agreements further the efforts to develop the proposed Coal Creek Golf Resort Community.
5) Disposal of Lots
Council approved the Agreement of Sale and Purchase of Lots 4 & 5, Block 9, District Lot 4588, Kootenay District Plan 734 (431 and 441 1st Avenue) for the sum of $103,000 to S.V. Ski Base Ltd., with the proceeds from the Sale to be deposited to the credit of the Land Development Reserve Fund. A restrictive covenant will be registered against title to the lands providing that they may only be used for vehicle parking for adjacent lots on which a mixed commercial and residential development is proposed.
6) Windrow Clearing Policy - Amendment
Council approved the following amendment to the recently adopted Windrow Clearing Policy with regards to Eligibility:
e) Applications made on behalf of a disabled resident whose primary caregiver’s are capable of snow removal but who are unable to do so due to the disabled resident’s need for constant care may be considered provided the application is made under the recommendation of the disabled residents physician.
7) Smokey Mountain Charters & Tours – Evening Shuttle
Council reviewed the November 24, 2008 letter from Smokey Mountain Charters & Tours Ltd. and moved to not provide financial support to the company to provide an evening shuttle service between the Fernie Alpine Resort to the City of Fernie. Council noted that Smokey Mountain Charters is going to provide the service as a commercial venture and a user fee charged for that service.
8) Bylaws
Bylaw No. 2080, cited as Zoning Bylaw No. 1750, Amendment Bylaw No. 86, 2008 for Finnigin’s Storage – 17 Ktunaxa Road was adopted. The Bylaw amendment permits a residential unit on that lot only in the service commercial zoning district.
Bylaw No. 2085, cited as Zoning Bylaw No. 1750 Amendment Bylaw No. 88, 2008 to amend the text of the CD-1- Comprehensive Development One Zone Zoning District and rezone certain lands CD-1 – Comprehensive Development One Zone and to designate CD-1 – Comprehensive Development One Zone sub areas was introduced and amended at first reading, read a first time as amended and granted second reading. Council also authorized staff to initiate a referral process to be undertaken prior to the statutory public hearing for Bylaw No. 2085.
The Bylaw rezones certain lands for the proposed Coal Creek Golf Resort Community and designates sub-area zone uses on the lands to facilitate the construction of a golf course and associated resort residential and commercial development.
Bylaw No. 2086, cited as Zoning Bylaw No. 1750 Amendment Bylaw No. 89, 2008 for Marko Maryniak at 1241 3rd Avenue was adopted. The Bylaw rezones the subject property to R1-B, Single Family Detached plus Residential, and authorizes the use of an accessory building for residential use.
Bylaw No. 2087, cited as Sewer Treatment Plant Temporary Borrowing Bylaw No. 2087, 2008 was adopted.
9) In keeping with the ‘Holiday Spirit’ Council moved to provide each of the current City Employees with a Gift Certificate to be redeemed at various businesses in town in recognition and appreciation of their work and service over the past year.
10) George Majic Spiritus Award
Mayor Corrigan presented Mr. Doug and Wilda Quail with the George Majic Spiritus Award for 2008 and noted their long history and service to the citizens and City of Fernie.
11) The Salvation Army Food Bank
Council also moved to donate $1500 dollars to ‘The Salvation Army Food Bank’ to provide support and assistance to people in need in Fernie over the holiday season.
12) BP Canada Energy Company – Mist Mountain Coalbed Gas Project
Representatives from BP Canada Energy Company are planning to attend the January 12, 2009 Regular Council Meeting to provide Council with an update on the Mist Mountain Coalbed Gas Project and further, to discuss the details of the recent tenure decision made by the British Columbia Government.
At the December 15, 2008 meeting Council passed the following resolution with regards to requesting BP to provide documentation relating to their community consultation in the Elk Valley:
Whereas the Provincial Government has granted tenure to BP Canada for the exploration of coal bed methane in the Crowsnest Coalfield and:
Whereas BP Canada has accepted an invitation by the City of Fernie to present at the council meeting of January 12, 2009; and
Therefore, in the interest of transparency and an informed dialogue, be it resolved that while respecting the confidential nature of consultations with First Nations, BP Canada be requested to provide all existing documentation previously provided to the Provincial Government relating to their community consultation in the Elk Valley to the City of Fernie one week prior to Council’s January 12, 2009 meeting with BP Canada.
The City of Fernie would like to wish everyone
Health and Happiness for the New Year!
Regular Council Meeting November 28, 2008
Posted by admin in : Fernie , add a comment1) Development Variance Permits approved:
a) Development Variance Permit No. 206 was approved for 400 Canyon Trail to vary the minimum side yard setback to facilitate the construction of a new single family detached home.
b) Development Variance Permit No. 208 was approved for 892 6th Avenue (the Raging Elk Hostel Ltd.) to vary the required off-street parking from 51 parking spaces to 11 parking spaces to facilitate the opening of a 62 seat lounge in the Hostel..
2) The East Kootenay Region of the BC Wildlife Federation - will be holding the 2009 B.C. Wildlife Federation Convention and Annual General Meeting from April 22 – 25, 2009.
Council approved a grant-in-aid to the Fernie Rod and Gun Club for one day rental at the Community Centre which will be used as the main convention area.
3) Sewer Treatment Plant Loan Authorization
Council approved borrowing from the Municipal Finance Authority of British Columbia of $1,300,000 as authorized by Sewer Treatment Plant Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 2072 and requested that the Regional District of East Kootenay consent to the borrowing over a period of 20 years and include the borrowing in their security issuing bylaw for the Spring 2009 MFA debt issue.
4) UBCM Community Tourism Program Phase 2 funding application -Development and Enhancement of the Municipal Website
Council approved the November 20, 2008 Application for the UBCM Community Tourism Program Phase 2 for the Development and Enhancement of the Municipal Website.
The City is entitled to receive $26,196.42. $5000 of the City’s allocation was dedicated to improvements of the Coal Discovery Trail. The City has $21,196.42 remaining under the Phase 2 entitlement and it is recommended that those funds be accessed for the development and enhancement of the municipal website for tourism and marketing and the promotion of Fernie. If approved, City funds will be combined with program funding to better serve the needs of residents and businesses and provide more online tools such as updated land use and development information, online forms and bill payments.
5) Elk Valley Regional Airport Service Establishment
Bylaw No. 2104 a bylaw that would convert the Elk Valley Airport ‘function to a ‘service.’ The original bylaw contained a maximum requisition of $0.10/$1000 of taxable assessment of land and improvements. Council voiced concern regarding this amount indicating they would support the conversion of the Elk Valley Airport function to a service but not support a requisition maximum greater than $0.04/$1000 of taxable assessment of land and improvements. The RDEK took this into consideration and amended the tax rate to $0.04/$1000 of taxable assessed value. Council consented on behalf of the electors of the City of Fernie to the adoption of the proposed Regional District of East Kootenay Bylaw No. 2104 as amended.
The requisition limit as contained in the amended bylaw allows approximately $120,000 to be levied in a year leaving room for considerable growth in funding for the
service.
6) Bylaws
a) Bylaw No. 2079, cited as the Development Cost Charge Bylaw No. 2079, 2008 received final adoption.
The new DCC Bylaw includes revised and updated capital costs estimates for infrastructure expansion to accommodate growth.
It is the City of Fernie’s philosophy that development should pay for any infrastructure required to facilitate growth. The DCC objectives of the DCC Bylaw are simple and based entirely upon the premise that infrastructure costs should be paid by those who will use and benefit from the installation of such systems. The City and its taxpayers cannot afford to subsidize development, but they do not wish to see development cease because critical infrastructure is unavailable or too costly for any one developer to construct. Pooling the resources of all stakeholders will result in realistic charges levied to each entity thereby ensuring the construction of infrastructure required to facilitate the growth of Fernie.
b) Bylaw No. 2087, cited as the Sewer Treatment Plant Temporary Borrowing Bylaw No. 2087, 2008 received first, second and third readings.
This bylaw authorizes the temporary borrowing of a portion of the estimated cost of constructing improvements to the Sewer Treatment Plan pending the sale of debentures.
c) Bylaw No. 2084, cited as the Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1923, Amendment No. 15, 2008 was read a first and second time and referred to a Public Hearing. (Applicant: Reto Barrington, Glen Park Management, 736402 Alberta Ltd., 0743134 BC Ltd.
Council authorized staff to initiate a referral process to be undertaken to the agencies and ministries as outlined in the staff report for this bylaw.
The Official Community Plan amendment proposes major revisions to the Bylaw to facilitate the development of the Coal Creek Golf Resort.
7) Letters of Support
a) BC Ambulance and Paramedics of British Columbia - Council will forward a letter of support to the BC Ambulance Service insisting that the BC Ambulance Station # 406 in Fernie have a car and crew ready to respond at all times.
b) British Olympic Alpine Ski Team -
Council will forward a letter of invitation and support to the British Olympic Alpine Ski Team to use Fernie as their pre-2010 Olympic training area.
Mayor Macnair noted Councils achievements over the past three years and thanked the outgoing Council for their tireless efforts over the past term to ensure that Fernie continues to be a wonderful place to live.
Regular Council Meeting November 10, 2008
Posted by admin in : Fernie , add a commentCentral Hotel – 301 2nd Avenue
The operators of the Central Hotel submitted applications to the (LCLB) to request an extension to their hours of liquor service for their existing food-primary and liquor-primary licenses.
Council held a hearing after providing notice on November 10th to receive comments from residents regarding the applications from the Central Hotel.
The request put forward for both food-primary and liquor-primary was to amend the hours of liquor service from:
Monday – Saturday Noon – 2:00 am
Sunday 11:00 am – midnight
To: Monday – Sunday 9:00 am to 2:00 am
Council took into consideration the concerns of the residents voiced verbally and the regulatory criteria, submissions via email, and a written letter. A motion was adopted to recommend to the (LCLB) the following hours of liquor service operation for the Central Hotel to:
Food Primary License: 10:30 am –2:00 am Monday – Saturday
10:30 am – midnight Sunday
Liquor Primary License:10:30 am – 2:00 am Monday –Saturday
10:30 am – midnight Sunday
Council will forward detailed resolutions supporting the amended hours of service for the licenses to the LCLB.
Appointment of Municipal Auditor
Section 169 of the Community Charter states that Council must appoint an auditor for the municipality. At the November 10 Regular Meeting, Council appointed GPI Chartered Accountants as the city’s municipal auditor for the years ending December 31, 2008 through to December 31, 2012. GPI Chartered Accountants have significant municipal experience and were the successful bidder in the RFP for municipal audit services.
Fernie and District Arts Station – Request to sublet a Portion of the Arts Station
Council approved the request from the Fernie and District Arts Station to sublet the restaurant and kitchen area on the main floor and the restaurant storage area in the basement of the Arts Station to The Blue Toque Diner for the purpose of a restaurant/diner/caterer for a two year term from November 2, 2008 to and including October 31, 2010.
Community Health Promotion Fund
Council resolved to support the grant application to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities “Community Health Promotion Fund” for the development of an ‘Active Transportation Plan’ (Trails Master Plan). This plan would put emphasis on standardizing trail maintenance and construction and provide information on how best to expand and connect our current trails
Aquatic Center – Evaluation for possible conversion from chlorine to salt water system
Mrs. Fern Marriott approached the City of Fernie and offered to pay for an Aquatic Facilities Assessment Report.
Council accepted Mrs. Marriott’s generous offer to donate $5,000 to put towards the initial consultation/evaluation report to be done by Mr. Roland Guy, VP and CEO of Service Plus Aquatics Inc and directed the Director of Leisure Services to accept the donation with thanks and have the Director of Leisure Services negotiate a contract with Service Plus Aquatics Inc. to do the aquatic centre assessment report. The report will assess the pools mechanical and water treatment systems, operational maintenance and air handling systems. The goal is to improve water and air quality and consider a change to a ‘salt water’ sanitation program to replace the current chlorine sanitation.
Bylaws
Bylaw No. 2025 Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1923, Amendment Bylaw No. 9, 2005 for a Portion of Lot 1, District Lot 4589, Kootenay District Plan NEP64864 except Plans NEP65011 and NEP66454 and Portion of Lot A, 4589 Kootenay District Plan NEP62408. Applicant: Bulova Resort Developments. Location: lands adjacent to Whitetail and Slalom Drives.
Bylaw No. 2083 cited as Zoning Bylaw No. 1750, Amendment Bylaw No. 87, 2008 for Lot A, District Lot 4589, Kootenay District Plan NEP62408 Portion of Lot 1, District Lot 4589, Kootenay District Plan NEP64864 except Plans NEP65011 and NEP66454. Applicant: Abugov Kaspar, Bruce Abugov. Location: lands adjacent to Whitetail and Slalom Drives.
Council withdrew the motions to adopt and grant third reading to Bylaw No. 2025 and the motion to grant third reading to Bylaw No. 2083 and directed staff to work with the applicant to address building height and density issues, and further to eliminate the tourist accommodation from the list of permitted uses and to reschedule another public hearing at no cost to the applicant for advertising, notices and other associated costs.
Regular Council Meeting October 27, 2008
Posted by admin in : Fernie , add a commentDevelopment Variance Permits issued:
1) Development Variance Permit for 1591 10th Avenue to vary the off-street parking spaces from 41 parking spaces to 19 spaces to facilitate the construction of eight dwelling units located above the first storey of the building.
2) Development Variance Permit for 1562 12th Avenue to vary the maximum parcel coverage to facilitate the construction of a roof enclosure over the front entrance way and a roof enclosure over the rear patio area on the existing single detached dwelling.
3) Development Variance Permit for 1241 3rd Avenue to vary the minimum rear and side yard setbacks as well as the minimum residential unit size to facilitate the conversion of the existing detached garage with an attached covered veranda into a secondary detached dwelling.
Royal Canadian Legion – Remembrance Day Ceremony
Council approved the following requests from the Royal Canadian Legion for the Remembrance Day Ceremony:
➢ To authorize The Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 36 to hold a parade to the Cenotaph on November 11, 2008;
➢ To allow the Branch to hold a Poppy Campaign commencing on Friday, October 31, 2008 until November 11, 2008; and
➢ To observe ‘Veterans’ Week’, the week immediately preceding Remembrance Day and allow the Official Poppy Flag to be flown at City Hall for the duration of Veteran’s week.
Every year on November 11, Canadians pause for a moment of silence for the men and women who have served our country. Many have given their lives so that we may live in peace. Take a moment on Tuesday, November 11 to remember and be thankful for what you have.
Elk Valley Regional Airport Service Establishment Bylaw
Council considered the request put forth by the Regional District of East Kootenay to consent to the adoption of Bylaw No. 2104 cited as “Regional District of East Kootenay – Elk Valley Regional Airport Service Establishment Bylaw No. 2104, 2008. The RDEK would like to convert the existing function, granted by issuance of supplementary letters patent, to a ‘service’ and need to adopt a bylaw to authorize that.
Council indicated their support for conversion of the Elk Valley Airport function to a service, but would not support a service establishment bylaw with a requisition maximum greater than $0.04 / $1000 of taxable assessment of land and improvements. The RDEK had proposed in the draft bylaw that the requisition maximum be set at $0.10/$1000 of taxable land and improvements.
Bylaw No. 2078, cited as Zoning Bylaw No. 1750, Amendment Bylaw No. 85, 2008 is a text amendment to Zoning Bylaw No 1750 by adding “in addition to the permitted uses herein on Lots 4 & 5, Block 128, District Lot 4588, Kootenay1561 10th Avenue only, eight dwelling units located above the first storey of the building.” This bylaw received Third Reading and has been forwarded to the Ministry of Transportation for approval prior to Council consideration of adoption.
Bylaw No. 2080 cited as Zoning Bylaw No. 1750, Amendment Bylaw No. 86, 2008 will amend the Zoning Bylaw by adding the following to Section 4.2.11 CS-1 Service Commercial Zone, Subsection .2 Permitted Uses: “.21 in addition to the permitted uses herein at 17 Ktunaxa Road only, one dwelling unit.”
Having a dwelling unit on the property will hopefully make the area safer from vandalism due to the presence of residents living in the area. This bylaw received Third Reading and has been forwarded to the Ministry of Transportation for approval prior to Council consideration of adoption.
Bylaw No. 2086, cited as Zoning Bylaw No. 1750, Amendment Bylaw No. 89, 2008 will amend the Zoning Bylaw 1750 by rezoning a 667 square metre (0.07 hectare) single family lot from R1- Single Family Residential to R1B- Single Detached Plus Residential to facilitate the conversion of the existing detached garage with an attached covered veranda into a secondary detached dwelling. This bylaw received Third Reading and has been forwarded to the Ministry of Transportation for approval prior to Council consideration of adoption.
Bylaw No. 2025 cited as Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1923 Amendment Bylaw No. 9, 2005 to re-designate 0.36 hectares (0.88 acres) of land legally described as a portion of Lot 1, District Lot 4589, Kootenay District Plan NEP64864 except Plans NEP65011 and NEP66454 and a Portion of Lot A, District Lot 4589, Kootenay District Plan NEP62408 (the BC Hydro transmission line right of way adjacent to Whitetail Drive) from Transportation and Utility Corridor to Residential Mixed Density was adopted.
Bylaw No. 2083, cited as Zoning Bylaw No. 1750, Amendment Bylaw No. 87, 2008 to rezone 0.29 hectares of land legally described as a portion of Lot 1, District Lot 4589, Kootenay District Plan NEP64864 except Plans NEP65011 and NEP66454 from P-2 Parks and Open Spaces zone to CD-3 Comprehensive Development Zone and to rezone 1.74 hectares of land from R-4 High Density Residential to CD-3 Comprehensive Development
October 14 & 27, 2008 Regular Council Meetings
Three Zone (subject properties adjacent to Whitetail and Slalom Drives). The Bylaw, if adopted, would allow a comprehensive
Residential development consisting of condominium type units and townhouses subject to a housing agreement for those townhouse units (4).
A motion was made to grant third reading to the bylaw.
That motion was tabled pending receipt of legal advice regarding what impact, if any, Councillor Burke’s stated conversation with Senior’s at a tea regarding Bylaws No. 2025 and 2083 after the close of the Public Hearing on October 20, 2008.
School Trustee elected by acclamation
City Council received correspondence from the Chief Election Officer for the triennial general local government elections advising that Mr. Frank Lento of Fernie was declared elected by acclamation to the office of Trustee for School District No. 5 (Southeast Kootenay), Electoral Area 1 for a three year term commencing in December 2008.
Regular Council Meeting October 14, 2008
Posted by admin in : Fernie , add a commentCouncil adopted a new Snow Removal – Windrow Clearing Policy
The main objective behind this policy is to reduce the burden for residents who are 65 years and older or those residents who are physically disabled and unable to move the snow windrow for themselves.
Some of the Criteria that must be met in order to be eligible to qualify for this service include:
No person must reside in the property under the age of 65 who is able and physically capable of removing the windrow. Any resident of the home under 65 must complete Part C of the application form which must certified by their physician;
1) Residents applying for assistance due to physical disability will be required to have their physician complete and endorse Part C of the form with their initial application only; and
2) The residence must be the applicant’s principle residence.
Residents who are eligible to have the windrows cleared by the City can expect that at some point during the course of the day or evening the windrow will be moved or substantially reduced as operational requirements permit.
Clearing of windrows will only be done during normal operational hours; overtime will not be expended solely for the purpose of clearing the windrows.
In no case will the City clear the snow from the driveway or snow pushed from the driveway into the windrow. Windrows clearing will not be carried out when only plow trucks are dispatched for street clearing.
This is a brief overview of the policy, for a complete copy of the Policy and Windrow Clearing Assistance Application form please visit our website at www.fernie.ca or stop by City Hall and pick up an application.
Ambulance Paramedics of British Columbia
The October 7, 2008 letter from the Ambulance Paramedics of British Columbia re: provision of acceptable level of service for proper wages was reviewed by Council. An invitation to the local Ambulance attendants to attend an upcoming Committee of the Whole meeting has been extended on behalf of Council to discuss the concerns the paramedics have in supplying proper service in the Elk Valley and South Country.
Further to this, Council has extended an invitation to Mr. Larry Jackson; Executive Director for BC Ambulance to attend an upcoming Committee of the Whole Meeting to provide an overview of the BC Ambulance Service and the proposed plans and changes to ensure adequate care and service to the citizens of British Columbia.
Regular Council Meeting September 29, 2008
Posted by admin in : Fernie , add a comment1) Development Variance Permits Approved:
After fulfilling the mandatory notice requirements and providing an opportunity for input from the public, Council approved the issuance of the following Development Variance Permits:
➢ Development Variance No. 202 – 641 10th Avenue which legalizes the siting of the existing single detached dwelling, varies the minimum side and front yard setbacks for a proposed addition only and increases the maximum projection for an open porch and sundeck and facilitates the subdivision of Lot 2, and Amended Lot 3 (See 1677201) Block 68, District Lot 4588, Kootenay District Plan 734A.
➢ Development Variance No. 204 for 621 7th Avenue which varies the maximum projection into the required minimum front yard setback to enable the construction of a second storey sundeck covered by a mansard roof element.
2) Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Plan
In the spring of 2007, the City of Fernie joined Partners for Climate Protection – a program facilitated by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities to guide municipalities through the development of a Greenhouse Gas emissions reduction plan.
Ms. Megan Walsh on behalf of Wildsight and the City of Fernie was in attendance and provided Council with an overview of a draft document that details the total greenhouse gas emissions created by City of Fernie operations. This draft document will form the basis from which an Implementation Report is compiled which will recommend a series of cost effective Greenhouse Gas reduction initiatives for the City to implement to reach their greenhouse gas reduction targets.
Council approved the inventory and authorized Ms. Walsh to forward the findings to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.
3) Central Hotel – Application to Extend Hours of Liquor Service for Existing Food-Primary and Liquor Primary Liquor Licenses
The Central Hotel has applied to the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch (LCLB) to extend the hours of liquor service for their Food-Primary Liquor License as well their Liquor-Primary License.
Currently the Food Primary and the Liquor Primary operate from:
Monday – Saturday Noon – 2:00 am
Sunday 11:00 am – midnight
Proposed new Hours for both the Food Primary and Liquor Primary would be:
Monday – Sunday 9:00 am – 2:00 am
Council authorized the process to move forward.
The City will deliver notices to occupants and mail a notice to registered owners within an area surrounding the Hotel determined by Council that provides details of the application. The applicant will post a 2’ x 3’ professionally prepared sign at the main entrance of the premises for at least 30 days advising the public of the application. The City will place an ad in two consecutive editions of the Free Press inviting interested citizens to provide their views to Council prior to a Hearing to be held on Monday, November 3, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. At the Hearing, Council will consider the views of the residents and the potential for noise and impact on the community and provide a resolution to the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch that comments on the application.
4) Bylaws
➢ Bylaw No. 2078 cited as Zoning Bylaw No. 1750, Amendment Bylaw No. 85, 2008 a text amendment to add a permitted use to the list of permitted uses in the CS-1 Service Commercial Zone to allow eight dwelling units located above the first storey of the building at 1561 10th Avenue only received First and Second Reading and will be referred to a Public Hearing to be held on Monday, October 27, 2008 at 5:30 pm to receive input from the public with regards to the proposed zoning amendment.
➢ Bylaw No. 2080, cited as Zoning Bylaw No 1750, Amendment Bylaw No. 86, 2008 a text amendment for 17 Ktunaxa Road to add a permitted use to the list of permitted uses in the CS-1 Commercial Zone to allow one dwelling unit at 17 Ktunaxa Road only received First and Second Reading and will be referred to a Public Hearing to be held on Monday, October 27, 2008 at 5:30 pm to receive input from the public with regards to the proposed zoning amendment.
➢ Bylaw No. 2086, cited as Zoning Bylaw No. 1750, Amendment Bylaw No. 89, 2008 to rezone 1241 3rd Avenue from R1 – Single Family Residential to R1B – Single Detached Plus Residential received First and Second Reading and will be referred to a Public Hearing to be held on Monday, October 27, 2008 at 5:30 pm to receive input form the public with regards to the proposed zoning amendment.
5) Letter of Understanding - Between the City of Fernie, Fernie Chamber of Commerce, the Rocky Mountain Grizzly Centre and the Derrick Society
Council signed a Letter of Understanding with the Fernie Chamber of Commerce, the Rocky Mountain Grizzly Centre and The Derrick Society to support cooperation between the four parties in their common goal to produce a home, long term or short for the Rocky Mountain Grizzly Center as well as an upgraded Derrick display and a reinvigorated Visitor Information Center at the eastern entrance to the City.
Regular Council Meeting September 11, 2008
Posted by admin in : Fernie , add a comment1) Development Variance Permit Approved
After fulfilling the mandatory notice requirements and providing an opportunity for input from the public, Council approved the issuance of Development Variance Permit (DVP) #203.
DVP #203 legalizes the siting of the existing principal building to facilitate the construction of a second storey balcony to the existing single detached dwelling located at 302 4th Avenue.
2) Idle Free Fernie One Step Closer
After receiving an informative presentation from Idle Free Ambassador Ms. Natasha Ewing, Council directed that staff work with Ms. Ewing to research the possibility of implementing an idle free policy for the City of Fernie. The Idle Free Ambassador Program is coordinated by the Ministry of Environment and is aimed at reducing air pollution generated from idling vehicles.
Ms. Ewing provided Council with information outlining the steps needed to create an “Idle Free Fernie” campaign
and provided some background data to demonstrate the need of such a program. The information was developed in partnership with Wildsight and the “Zero Waste Team” at Fernie Secondary School who have already created Idle Free Zones at the High School, City Hall and the Aquatic Centre.
3) Child Care Needs Assessment Survey Supported
Ms. Trish Luke, the Fernie Early Child Care Development Coordinator gave Council a presentation on the need for the Elk Valley Child Care Needs Assessment study and requested a $4000 grant toward the project. The project will gather data by way of a comprehensive Child Care Needs Assessment Survey which will help community groups better understand the amount and types of child care needed in the Elk Valley.
The paper, mail-in survey which is being managed by the Canadian Research firm Ipsos Reid, will begin circulating in mid-September and will be available at select locations throughout the Elk Valley. A report on Fernie’s Child Care needs is expected by December, 2008. The project is supported by the District of Elkford, District of Sparwood, the Elkford, Sparwood and Fernie Early Childhood Development Teams, Children First, Elk Valley Coal, Columbia Basin Trust and Regional District Electoral Area “A.” City Council approved a contribution of $4000 as requested. For more information please call Trish Luke, Fernie ECD Coordinator at 423-4894 or by email at dtluke@telus.net
4) New Leisure Services Bylaw Proceeding
City Council gave first, second and third reading to a new Leisure Services User Regulation and Fees Bylaw. The new Bylaw will replace the existing Bylaw and was written largely in response to rising wage, utility and insurance costs. The previous user fee adjustment occurred in 2004 and amounted to about 25 cents per person, per facility use.
A survey of recreation and facility user fees of other communities in the East Kootenay was conducted to identify admission rates and was previously provided to Council. It was felt that an average adjustment of 15% would help offset a portion of rising costs, assist with cost recovery and help meet the targeted operating deficit while keeping Fernie’s recreation admission and facility use rates competitive with other communities.
Other highlights of the new Bylaw include the inclusion of swimming lessons in Schedule A fees, the addition of the Curling Club to Schedule A and the addition of the Curling Club to Schedule C, the Facility Use Agreement. The Bylaw is expected to be presented to Council for consideration of adoption at the September 29th 7:00 p.m. Regular Council meeting.
5) Zoning Bylaw 2064 approved
After holding a Public Hearing on September 3rd during a Special Meeting in which the Bylaw received third reading (followed by approval from the Ministry of Transportation), Council adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 80, 2008. The Bylaw applies to a 49 hectare parcel of land annexed into the City of Fernie in 2007 which is located just off Highway No. 3 adjacent to Mount Fernie Park Road.
The Bylaw creates a new Comprehensive Development (CD-4) zone that will allow up to 265 single-family, duplex and multiple family residential units to be constructed. The Bylaw also provides for the dedication of a significant natural open space or “conservation area” based on a comprehensive development plan. Please contact City Hall at 250-423-6817 if you are interested in more information.
6) Mayor Announces Election Intentions
Mayor Randal Macnair announced his intention to run for the position of City Councillor during the November 15, 2008 General Local Election for the City of Fernie. He stated that he looks forward to having the opportunity to continue serving the people of Fernie as a member of City Council.
Regular Council Meeting August 25, 2008
Posted by admin in : Fernie , add a comment1) Development Variance Permit Approved
After fulfilling the mandatory notice requirements and providing an opportunity for input from the public, Council approved the issuance of Development Variance Permit (DVP) #201.
DVP #201 legalizes the siting of the existing single detached dwelling and varies the maximum parcel coverage permitted to facilitate the construction of an addition and a sundeck including a side yard walkway only, to the existing single detached dwelling at 1271 – 2nd Avenue.
2) FAR Picnic in the Park Approved
Fernie Alpine Resort (FAR) was given Council approval to hold their annual company picnic in James White Park on Sunday, September 14, 2008. Though Council does not play a direct role in the Special Occasion Liquor Licence approval process for this private event, their permission to use a city park for such an event is required. Liquor service will be restricted to an enclosed 50’ x 50’ area.
3) Taste of Fernie Event Approved
City Council provided its support for the Taste of Fernie Organizing Committee’s two applications for Special Occasion Liquor Licences for Friday, September 12th from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. and Saturday, September 13, 2008 from 12:00 noon until 10:00 p.m. and granted the Committee permission to use CP Station Square on both days for the purpose of operating an alcoholic beverage garden. Earlier in the meeting Mr. Kevin McIsaac of the Organizing Committee gave Council a brief overview of this year’s event and thanked Council for their support of this annual community event.
4) Proposed Golf Course Bylaw Amendment Applications Approved
City Council approved the applications to amend the City of Fernie Official Community Plan (OCP) and Zoning Bylaws submitted by Mr. Reto Barrington of Glen Park Management as part of the proposed Coal Creek Golf Resort Community development. The approval authorizes staff to prepare the OCP and Zoning amendment bylaws. The OCP is proposed to be amended by designating certain lands recently annexed into the City as Special Policy Area. Other land located east of Pine Avenue and to the north of Whitetail Drive is proposed to be redesignated from Natural Open Space to Special Policy Area, land designated Residential Mixed Density located to the east of Pine Avenue and to the south of Whitetail Drive as well as land located to the south of Castle Mountain Road is proposed to be redesignated to Special Policy Area. In addition, the BC Hydro Transmission line that is designated as Transportation and Utility Corridor is proposed to be relocated north of Coal Creek Road. The proposed OCP amendment also includes some text amendments and revision of some OCP Schedules.
Zoning Bylaw No. 1750 is proposed to be amended to clarify concepts and to define permitted uses of specific areas of the CD-1 – Comprehensive Development One Zone. No dates have yet been set but both proposed Bylaws will be subject to a public hearing prior to third reading. Please watch the City of Fernie page in the Free Press Newspaper and the City’s website for details.
5) Purchase of Max Turyk School Proceeding
Council gave first, second and third reading to Bylaws No. 2081 and No. 2082, both of which are financial bylaws necessary to move the City’s efforts to purchase the Max Turyk School site forward. The City has offered $800,000 to School District No. 5 for the property. The offer to purchase must now be approved by the School District’s Board of Trustees.
In anticipation of that happening, City of Fernie Bylaw No. 2081 amends the Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw to reflect the $800,000 expenditure while Bylaw No. 2082 allows $300,000 from the Land Development Reserve Fund to be withdrawn and put toward the $800,000 purchase. The other $500,000 will come from unallocated operating reserves. If the School District approves the purchase, the facility will be used for a wide variety of community purposes including a much needed childcare facility.
6) Development Cost Charge Bylaw Moves Forward
Council gave first, second and third reading to Development Cost Charge Bylaw No. 2079, 2008 which will replace the existing Development Cost Charge (DCC) Bylaw which was adopted in June, 2004. As a result of increased infrastructure construction costs, developer contributions to DCC reserves were found to be insufficient to fund the portion of planned infrastructure projects deemed by Council to be attributable to development.
DCCs are intended to provide a method to finance growth-related water, sanitary sewer, transportation, storm water and parks capital projects The new Bylaw reflects revised estimates for infrastructure projects based on current construction rates. The Bylaw must receive approval of the Inspector of Municipalities before Council can adopt it. For more information or a copy of the draft Bylaw, please contact Larry Randle, Director of Corporate Administration Services at 423-2231.
REgular Council Meeting August 11, 2008
Posted by admin in : Fernie , add a comment1) Development Variance Permits Approved
After fulfilling the mandatory notice requirements and providing an opportunity for input from the public, Council approved the issuance of Development Variance Permits (DVP) #195, #196, #198, #199 and #200.
DVP #195 legalizes the siting of the existing dwelling and varies the minimum front yard setback to facilitate the construction of a deck and stairs onto the single detached dwelling and varies the minimum side yard accessory building setbacks to facilitate the construction of a shed at 922 - 4th Avenue.
DVP #196 legalizes the siting of the existing backyard shed and varies the minimum side yard setback along the north property line to facilitate the construction of a proposed attached carport on the north side of the single family dwelling at 189 Ridgemont Lane.
DVP #198 legalizes the siting of the existing dwelling and varies the maximum permitted parcel coverage from 40% to 48% to facilitate the addition of two sundecks to the multiple family dwelling (fourplex) located at 1422- 9th Avenue.
DVP #199 legalizes the siting of the existing single detached dwelling located at 762 - 5th Avenue.
DVP #200 legalizes the siting of the existing single detached dwelling and the height of the existing front yard screening / fencing enclosure and varies the maximum parcel coverage, the minimum front, side and rear yard setbacks and the maximum eave and step projection to facilitate the construction of a front enclosed addition and a side open porch to the existing single detached dwelling at 602A - 4th Avenue.
2) City Hall Roof Replacement to Proceed
With the roof on City Hall in urgent need of replacement, the City of Fernie Advisory Planning Commission (APC) recommended to Council the replacement of the roof with the “Euro Shake” Rubber Roofing System. While maintaining the historical integrity of the building and integrating modern technologies, the preferred solution will provide great durability and be low maintenance.
Other repairs and enhancements to the roof as identified in an October, 2006 consultant’s inspection will also be incorporated into the project. Council agreed with the APC’s recommendation and approved the project. A Request for Quotations (RFQ) for the work will be made available shortly. The total budget for the project is $175,000.
3) Kodiak Lounge Liquor Licence Approved
After hearing the views of the public during a hearing on the matter held earlier in the evening, Council approved support for the Kodiak Lounge’s Liquor Licence Application for a 62-seat indoor lounge but turned down the applicant’s request for a 28-seat outdoor licensed patio. A copy of Council’s final resolution on the application will now be forwarded to the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch who have the authority to issue the license.
The City of Fernie Zoning Bylaw requires 21 new parking spaces for the 62-seat licensed indoor establishment. Before liquor service can commence at the Kodiak Lounge located in the Raging Elk Hostel at 892 6th Avenue, the parking issue will have to be resolved to Council’s satisfaction.
Regular Council Meeting July 28, 2008
Posted by admin in : Fernie , add a comment1) Development Variance Permit – Authorize Issuance
After fulfilling the mandatory notice requirements and providing an opportunity for input from the public, Council approved the issuance of Development Variance Permit No. 197 – 1042-5th Avenue to legalize the siting of the existing principal building and the addition of a proposed porch and steps to the building.
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2) Sewer Treatment Plant Loan Authorization Bylaw
No. 2072, 2008
Council approved the elector response form to conduct an alternative approval process that will seek responses from citizens on the borrowing of an amount not to exceed $1,300,000 for improvement work to be done as part of the Fernie Sewage Treatment Plant Expansion. Council also set the deadline for receipt of elector responses as Monday, September 8, 2008 and established 3432 as the number of electors of the City of Fernie for the alternative approval process. Notice of the alternative approval process opportunity will be placed in the July 30 and August 6, 2008 editions of the Fernie Free Press.
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3) Northwest Water Reservoir Loan Authorization Bylaw
No. 2073, 2008
Council approved the elector response form to conduct an alternative approval process that will seek responses from citizens on the borrowing of an amount not to exceed $3,000,000 for the construction of the Northwest Water Reservoir. Council also set the deadline for receipt of elector responses as Monday, September 8, 2008 and established 3432 as the number of electors of the City of Fernie for the alternative approval process. Notice of the alternative approval process opportunity will be placed in the July 30 and August 6, 2008 editions of the Fernie Free Press.
Elector Response forms for both alternative approval processes are available at City Hall
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4) Special Occasion Liquor Licences were approved and issued to the following:
➢ Fernie Lions Club to hold their Annual Demolition Derby and Beer Garden at the Fernie Wranglers Rodeo Grounds as well, a request for use of bleachers and the City Water Truck for control of dust.
Demo-Derby will be held Sunday, August 31, 2008.
➢ TransRockies Challenge 2008
This is an international celebration of cycling to be held on Saturday, August 16, 2008. The event proposes to use City of Fernie property as part of the race and associated events as well as for the purpose of serving alcoholic beverages.
This was approved subject to the applicant providing proof of host liquor liability insurance to the City of Fernie
➢ Fernie Mixed Slo-Pitch League to operate a Beer Garden in the Lions Pavilion in Prentice Park on August 9th and 10th for the Annual Fernie Mixed Slo-Pitch Tournament.
This was approved subject to the applicant providing proof of host liquor liability insurance to the City of Fernie.
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5) Appointment of Alternate Municipal Director to the Boards of the RDEK, EK Regional Hospital District and KE Regional Hospital District for the months of July and August.
Council appointed Councillor McSkimming to act as the Alternate Municipal Director to attend the Board Meetings to be held Thursday, July 31 and Friday August 1, 2008.
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6) Kodiak Lounge Liquor Primary Licence Application
Council scheduled a Special Meeting to be held on Monday, August 11, 2008 at 6:00 pm to hold a hearing on the Kodiak Lounge Ltd. Liquor Primary License Application. Following the hearing Council will pass a detailed resolution with regards to the application for submission to the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch.
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7) Fernie Chamber of Commerce – Resort Revenue Sharing Fund / Evening Shuttle Funding
The Fernie Chamber of Commerce is planning in advance for the upcoming winter season with regards to the Evening Shuttle and is looking for written confirmation on the total amount of funding designated for the Shuttle Service from the Resort Revenue Sharing Fund.
Council directed staff to forward the July 18 letter to the next Council or Committee meeting where the Resort Municipality Tax Transfer Program and a resort development strategy for Fernie and area will be considered.
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SmartGrowth BC
Council authorized the expenditure of a $250 dollar donation to Smart GrowthBC to become a ‘2008 Municipal Friend’. SmartGrowth is an organization that works with local and regional
governments and groups to create livable communities across British Columbia. They are dedicated to promoting smart growth principles with land use, planning and development.
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9) Official Community Plan Implementation Committee
Recommendations to Council
Representatives from the OCPIC were in attendance to present recommendations from the Committee for Council to consider with regards to Economic Development, a Communication Strategy, Housing and an Official Community Plan Review.
Council received the document and gave direction that the recommendations be forwarded to staff for their review and further, to request that a report be brought back for Council’s consideration regarding these recommendations.
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10) Bylaw No. 2032, cited as the Election Procedure and Regulations Bylaw No. 2032 was adopted. The Bylaw establishes the procedures and regulations for the conduct of general local elections and other voting in the City of Fernie. For more information on local elections and other voting contact Mr. Larry Randle, Director of Corporate Administration Services at the City of Fernie.
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11) Canada Post Corporation Strategic Review
Council agreed to send a letter to the Canada Post Corporation insisting that the government hold public hearings and properly consult with the true owners of Canada Post – the public on the Strategic Review underway with regards to postal service. Copies of the letter will also be sent MP Jim Abbott, the Canadian Union of Postal Workers and Fernie Post Office.