Council Update – May 21, 2024

The City of Duncan Council Update is a snapshot of items considered at meetings of Council. These are not the official minutes. Meeting agendas, minutes, and videos can be accessed through the City’s Council Meeting Portal.

• Council received the report of the Chief Administrative Officer that included updates on a number of City initiatives.
• Council approved Development Variance Permit No. DVP-2024-03 for 462 Duncan Street to facilitate the installation of a fascia sign.
• Council directed staff to bring forward Zoning Bylaw amendments for small-scale multi-unit housing that will bring the City’s Zoning Bylaw into compliance with new Provincial government requirements. Zoning Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 3166.05, 2024 will be brought forward for Council’s consideration of first three readings and adoption at the June 3, 2024 Regular Council meeting.
• Council directed staff to apply to the Island Coastal Economic Trust Community Placemaking Program in the amount of $40,000 for the Station Street Placemaking Project. The Station Street Placemaking Project will bring significant enhancements to the existing park and immediate surrounding area, including installation of public washrooms, increased canopy cover, drought resistant and native landscaping, and infrastructure improvements to support and grow community events and enhance community accessibility and inclusivity.
• Council confirmed their priority topics for a requested meeting with Housing Minister Ravi Kahlon at the upcoming 2024 UBCM Convention:
  • long-term funding and support for existing and additional sleeping pod units and locations (e.g. the Village) as an important supportive housing segment in the spectrum of housing in the Provincial Housing Plan.
  • long-term funding for ongoing maintenance of supportive housing facilities and for support services.
  • support for regional action plans to address homelessness in collaboration with local governments.
• Council approved a grant application for the installation of recycled rubber surfacing as well as an accessible play element in the new McAdam Park from the SPARC BC Local Community Accessibility Grant program.
• Council approved working with WestUrban to coordinate the construction of the 107 Evans Frontage Watermain, anticipated construction value of $165,000 plus $25,000 for construction management and contingency, at the same time that the developer will be completing other required frontage works on Canada Avenue.
• Council gave first three readings to Municipal Ticket Information Amendment Bylaw No. 3189.02, 2024 to amend the Municipal Ticket Information System.
• Council proclaimed May 2024 as MS Awareness Month in the City of Duncan.
• Council proclaimed June 17-23, 2024 as Pollinator Week in the City of Duncan, and directed staff to undertake a Pollinator Week social media campaign.

The next Regular Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, June 3, 2024.