Hears dog park delegation
City of Powell River council’s committee of the whole received a delegation on Tuesday, March 14, from BC SPCA Powell River and District Branch. The city received two letters requesting that pit bull dogs be restricted from the city’s dog park as they pose a heightened risk to park users. SPCA branch manager Brandy Craig appeared before the committee and said research shows that all dogs can be aggressive, not just particular breeds. She added the problem has more to do with how the animal has been socialized and whether it has been spayed or neutered. City clerk and bylaw enforcement manager Chris Jackson told the committee the city would consider restricting dogs not spayed or neutered from the park, as well as increasing enforcement.
Recommends trash bash support
Committee of the whole will be recommending to council that it again support Powell River Regional District’s annual Trash Bash event. This year staff is recommending the city provide $5,000 toward paying for tipping fees and providing a lunch for volunteers that day. In 2016, volunteers collected approximately 30 tonnes of household waste from Powell River’s trails and backcountry during the event.
Establishes sustainability committee
At its meeting on Thursday, March 16, city council approved the creation of a new sustainability committee to pick up on and oversee the implementation of recommendations in the city’s 2015 integrated community sustainability plan. The composition of the committee will include three councillors to be selected at a later date.
Appoints Kathaumixw representative
Council appointed councillor CaroleAnn Leishman, also the city’s arts and culture portfolio holder, to participate as council’s representative to a regional delegation going to Hong Kong next month to present a totem pole won at last summer’s International Choral Kathaumixw. Wah Yan College Kowloon Boys' Choir won the totem pole, crafted by local carvers, after being named Choir of the World at the 2016 international choral competition. According to mayor Dave Formosa, the trip will be paid for out of the city’s economic development department budget.
Approves park concession lease
Council approved a five-year lease for operation of the Beach Hut concession at Willingdon Beach Park. Talks will continue between city staff and leaseholders on the idea of creating a patio for the sale and consumption of liquor.
Appoints forest directors
Council appointed previous Powell River Community Forest directors Janet May, Bill Bird and Mark Hassett for a three-year term starting next month. Councillor Karen Skadsheim was appointed proxy for the city in order to vote at the community forest’s annual general meeting on April 4.
Appoints regional recreation delegation
Council appointed mayor Dave Formosa, councillor Russell Brewer and city chief administrative officer Mac Fraser to represent council during the upcoming forum to discuss regional recreation funding equity with Powell River Regional District and Tla’amin Nation. Councillors Jim Palm and CaroleAnn Leishman will serve as first and second replacements for the city’s delegation.
