Christine Burns

The Council discussed the Pemberton Residential Retrofit Feasibility Study, received updates on the 2025 living wage, and announced hosting a Local Government Management Association intern. Additionally, they reviewed projects regarding the One Mile Lake Boardwalk replacement, the Harrow Road Connector Trail, and the Community Barn Ice Rink. Funding applications for the BC Air Access Program were supported, and Community Enhancement Fund allocations were granted to Tourism Pemberton and the Pemberton Youth Advisory Committee. The Council also addressed various bylaws, including amendments to the Official Community Plan, the Advisory Design Panel Bylaw, and the Fees and Charges Amendment for Recreation.

The meeting included a delegation update from Tourism Pemberton regarding visitor centre operations, challenges at the new location, and future strategic priorities. The Chief Administrative Officer provided updates on the Speĺkúmtn Community Forest recruitment process and legacy fund status. Council approved a contribution to the Christmas Hamper program and Healthy Futures, Healthy Communities Campaign from the Community Enhancement Fund, adopted the Recreation Services Code of Conduct Policy, and gave readings and final adoption to zoning and fees bylaws. Additionally, reports were provided on various regional and community meetings, and updates were received from the closed session regarding airport property use and roaming horse issues.

The council discussed the Council Community Engagement Strategy and approved budget allocations to support it. A delegation from the Pemberton and District Public Library presented a space needs assessment report. Reports were provided on engineering and public works, CAO updates including childcare funding challenges and concerns regarding downtown public behavior, as well as development and finance quarterly reports. Council directed staff to prepare a sewer rates bylaw, supported a FireSmart grant application, and progressed Official Community Plan and Zoning amendment bylaws. Additionally, the Mayor and councillors provided updates on committee and regional district activities, and council expressed support for the BC Farmers' Market Nutrition Coupon Program.

The Committee of the Whole supported the Accessibility and Inclusion Plan and recommended its endorsement by Council. Additionally, the Committee reviewed the Recreation Services Policy, discussing the evaluation of services relative to policy goals and deposit requirements for facility rentals by non-profit groups and small businesses, subsequently recommending the policy for Council approval.

The committee meeting focused on a presentation regarding Pemberton's living wage calculation and the process for becoming a living wage employer, resulting in a directive for staff to investigate the program and its potential impacts on municipal wages. Additionally, a workshop was conducted on the Development Cost Charge (DCC) review and update process, covering topics such as balancing priorities for growth and existing infrastructure, the list of eligible projects, and the distinction between DCCs and Amenity Cost Charges.