Carbon calculator helps track footprints
City of Powell River sustainability steering committee recommended to council that a carbon footprint calculator be placed on the city's website to help bring further awareness to the community. Council agreed with the recommendation during its meeting Thursday, March 20. Members of the public can visit the site and use the calculator to estimate their own carbon footprint or that of their entire family.
Low income housing
An affordable social housing development received the nod from council to begin Phase One of a construction project on vacant land on Fernwood Avenue close to Duncan Street. The development will see two, three-storey buildings erected containing a total of 14 units—13 one-bedroom units of rental housing and one three-bedroom caretaker's unit. The grounds surrounding the project will sport finished landscaping and 20 onsite parking stalls. Wheelchair accessibility will be provided on the lower level. The development will be registered with Built Green BC, a voluntary program that promotes sustainability and “green” building practices to reduce the impact a building has on the environment.
Election appointments
Council has appointed city clerk Marie Claxton as chief election officer for the 2014 general local elections. Within the auspices of the position, Claxton will have the authority to appoint other election officials to assist in administration and duties of the elections. Cathy Grenier was appointed deputy chief election officer.
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
A delegation from the Powell River fetal alcohol spectrum disorder steering committee approached council to request a bylaw requiring liquor store establishments to post signs warning patrons about the dangers of drinking alcohol while pregnant. If adopted, the new bylaw will replace a prior bylaw from 1992 with updated references. New licensed premises and liquor outlets will be advised of the requirement when applying for their business licences.
