This update covers highlights from the December 11, 2024, Council meeting. If there is something from the meeting that you would like more detail on, the full agenda, video and minutes (when available) of each meeting are posted on the City of Courtenay’s website at www.courtenay.ca/councilmeetings 

Delegations

Comox Valley Masters Soccer Club proposes pavilion partnership
A representative from the Comox Valley Masters Soccer Club proposed a partnership with the City to build a timber-framed pavilion at Woodcote Park.

Presentation

Comox Valley Regional District’s (CVRD) initiatives: housing
The CVRD’s Chief Administrative Officer gave a presentation outlining its plans to tackle housing challenges by creating a Housing Corporation to develop affordable, non-market rental housing and a Housing Master Plan to connect land with housing projects.

Staff Reports

Development variance permit for 407 4th Street
Monterra Projects Ltd. addressed Council on their plans for 407 4th Street, covering design, parking and community engagement. Council approved key changes to zoning rules, including adjustments to parking, bike spaces and building height. The Development Variance Permit No. 2403 was approved, allowing the project to move forward.

Urban Forest Strategy and Tree Bylaw Update
Council received the report on the Urban Forest Strategy and Tree Bylaw Update and endorsed the communication strategy to guide community engagement and keep stakeholders informed.

Community Resiliency Investment Grant Funding: 2023 update and 2025 application
Council approved applying for up to $2 million in FireSmart Community Funding and Supports from the Union of BC Municipalities’ Community Resiliency Investment Grant Funding. The funds will support fire prevention efforts across the region for 2025-2026. The CVRD will take the lead in applying for, managing and distributing the grant on behalf of the Council.

2024 disaster risk reduction: Climate Adaptation grant
Council approved applying for up to $100,000 from the Union of BC Municipalities' Community Emergency Preparedness Fund. The grant will support climate adaptation projects in partnership with the CVRD, which will take the lead in applying for, managing and distributing the grant on behalf of the Council.

Temporary Winter Shelter approved for 971 Cumberland Road
Council approved the use of 971 Cumberland Road as a Temporary Winter Shelter until April 30, 2025, and temporarily deferred strict enforcement of the Zoning Bylaw. This decision supports BC Housing's funded Extreme Weather Response shelter program. The shelter will move forward provided the City signs an agreement with a shelter operator and the building meets safety standards.

Funding and agreement approved for winter shelter
Council approved $189,000 to support winter shelter services at 971 Cumberland Road until April 30, 2025. Staff will finalize an agreement with an operator and will negotiate all necessary terms.

Unfinished Business

Delegation: Morrison Creek fish passage remediation
Council appreciates the important work of the Morrison Creek Streamkeepers in protecting the local ecosystem. After review, Council decided to refer the request to replace the baffles and repair the plunge pool’s riffle crest in the Morrison Creek culvert to staff for a report.

Delegation: Grant approved for You Are Not Alone (YANA) Big Love Benefit
Council approved a one-time $1,000 grant to support YANA's Big Love Benefit Dinner and Auction in February 2025. The funding will come from Other Council Initiatives (Gaming Funds).

Bylaws

Bylaws given first, second, and third readings
Council approved the first, second and third readings of the following bylaws:

1. Municipal and Regional District Tax Reserve Bylaw No. 3158
2. Snow and Ice Control Reserve Bylaw No. 3159
3. Solid Waste Reserve Bylaw No. 3160
4. Police Contingency Reserve Fund Amendment Bylaw No. 3161
5. Election Reserve Bylaw No. 3162
6. Fire Protective Services Amendment Bylaw No. 3163
7. Development Cost Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 3164

Bylaws for Adoption

Bylaws adopted for 120 11th Street
Council adopted the following bylaws:

1. Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 3059 to allow Comprehensive Development Forty One (CD-41). Council also approved waiving the encroachment agreement fee in exchange for the landowner's commitment to maintain and repair the encroachments on City land, as outlined in a Section 219 Covenant.
2. Housing Agreement Bylaw No. 3152 to support housing at 120 11th Street.

Council Resolution

Rise and Report: 2025 Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL) Board appointments
Council has appointed Councillor Morin to the VIRL Board for a one-year term from January 1 to December 31, 2025, with Councillor McCollum as the alternate.

The next meeting is Wednesday, December 18. For Council agendas as well as minutes and video from past meetings, visit www.courtenay.ca/councilmeetings