Supports public transit expansion
At its meeting on Thursday, July 21, City of Powell River council approved the expansion of the city’s public transit service from Monday to Thursday. Council also approved the extension of the Upper Westview route to include service on alternating trips to Powell River Recreation Complex, a move Powell River youth council unanimously supported.
Debates Hemlock Street secondary suites
The issue of allowing Hemlock Street secondary suites will go back to city staff for further deliberation. Developer Mark Hassett and Hemlock residents spoke to council in support of a zoning-amendment application that would allow suites in the subdivision zoned compact residential (RM1). Mayor Dave Formosa excused himself from the discussion citing conflict of interest as he is a resident of the street and also a co-owner of the development.
Endorses wildfire protection application
Council endorsed an application to Union of BC Municipalities for funding from its Strategic Wildfire Prevention Initiative to develop a regional FireSmart program and continue the mitigation work done in the Penticton trails, furthering efforts to reduce wildfire fuel levels.
Funds Powell River Pride grant request
Despite not having money left in the grant-in-aid budget, council reached into its own funds to approve a $1,000 contribution to Powell River Diversity Initiative to assist with Powell River Pride 2016 celebrations and a $292.50 in-kind grant for use of the Rotary Pavillon. Pride organizers were requested to apply earlier for grant funding next year.
Appoints representatives
Councillor CaroleAnn Leishman and operational services manager Shawn Cator were appointed to represent the city on Powell River Regional District’s solid waste management plan advisory committee. Councillor Rob Southcott was appointed to act as the city’s representative to the Association of Vancouver Island and Coastal Communities (AVICC) social procurement policy committee.
Endorses application for access funds
Council approved an application to Canada’s Enabling Accessibility Fund to purchase and install six automatic door openers at the complex for interior doors.
Adopts rezoning application
Council adopted a zoning bylaw that changes zoning for a property located at the corner of Duncan Street and Westview Avenue from single and two-family residential (R2) to compact residential (RM1).
Allows development permit
Council approved a development permit that allows exterior façade upgrades to A & W Restaurant.
Cancels August meetings
Council voted to cancel the Tuesday, August 2, committee of the whole and Thursday, August 4, council meetings. The next committee of the whole meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 16.
