Aaron R. Ruhl

The council received a presentation from the Central Fraser Valley Search and Rescue Society regarding their operational history, funding needs, and collaboration with emergency services. Additionally, the council reviewed and discussed the 2025 audited consolidated financial statements, addressing questions regarding net debt balances, liabilities versus assets, and the categorization of professional and legal service expenses within the general government budget.

The public hearing focused on proposed bylaws related to the Willoughby Community and neighborhood plans, including the consolidation of various neighborhood plans and new planning approaches for the 200 Street bus rapid transit corridor. Discussion topics included amendments to community and neighborhood plans, the establishment of new transit corridor plans, repealing specific neighborhood plan bylaws, and addressing concerns from public speakers regarding property zoning, densification, and the special study area. Additionally, the council approved amendments to bylaws, considered readings of the bylaws, and adopted policies regarding greenway amenities and development phasing.

The council meeting included a presentation from the Little Campbell Watershed Society regarding the Fernidge Nature Park, highlighting its ecological importance, local wildlife, and the history of the site as a former gravel aggregate mine. Discussions also covered the ongoing efforts for park development, trail systems, and the preservation of native plants. Council members addressed the inclusion of additional land into the park's boundaries and inquired about potential locations for a cell tower to improve communication services in the surrounding area.

The council held a public hearing regarding several proposed bylaws. These included tenant protection measures during residential rental redevelopment, including the Tenant Protection Bylaw, the Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, and amendments to the Official Community Plan. Additionally, the meeting addressed updates to the Brookswood Fernidge Community and Neighborhood Plan, specifically regarding policy, mapping, and a requested increase in site coverage percentage to 35%. Public input was received regarding the tenant protection bylaws and the proposed amendments to the community plan.

The council meeting addressed safety concerns regarding the increasing use of e-scooters on roads and sidewalks, particularly by minors. Key discussions centered on the lack of public education and clear safety documentation, the need for consistent rules across municipalities, and the importance of collaborative messaging between the RCMP, school district, and local government. The council also received a delegation from residents of the Pepperwood Townhouse complex regarding their residential development.