Deanne Burleigh

The Council convened for a regular meeting, which included a Committee of the Whole session covering delegations regarding a maternal mental health proclamation, a foundation grants program review, and a track and field renewal project. The Council accepted the 2025 Audited Financial Statements, advanced a partnership project for the track and field facility, and received a report on the 2026 water outlook. Additionally, the Council approved the renewal of a License to Use Agreement for Pier Water Sports, updated the Park Land Protection & Use Policy, and established terms of reference for a Development Services Division Review Task Force with specific membership requirements. A development variance permit regarding hot tub placement was granted, and the Tax Rates Bylaw No. 2026-20 was adopted before adjourning to a Closed Council Meeting.

The meeting encompassed a wide range of municipal business, including presentations on the Penticton Safety Village, an overview of the Penticton Public Library Board services, and updates on youth homelessness initiatives and tourism. The Council reviewed and received several staff reports, such as the 2025 Annual Report, an update on Fire Hall renewals, an operational summary for the outdoor rink, an extreme heat plan for vulnerable populations, and the implementation progress of the Social Housing and Infrastructure Plan. Additionally, Council authorized several development permits and variances, approved the discharge of a land covenant, and proceeded with readings and adoption of various official community plan and zoning amendment bylaws. A notice of motion regarding skate park graffiti policy was also introduced for future consideration.

The council held three public hearings concerning bylaw amendments. The first hearing covered the Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw, which involves updates to low-density residential land use designations, revisions to development permit areas, and corrections to future land use maps. The second hearing addressed the Zoning Amendment Bylaw, aiming to align regulations with provincial legislation, clarify definitions, and perform general bylaw housekeeping. The final hearing focused on a zoning amendment for 510 Naramata Road, which seeks to permit an agri-tourism accommodation within an existing carriage house.

The council meeting covered several operational and community matters. Key topics included various proclamations for community awareness months, updates on community safety and regional water management, and the review of the 2024-2026 Council Priorities. The council passed bylaws related to safe public places, ticketing, and enforcement. Additionally, the meeting addressed a seasonal safety strategy for lakeshore areas, regional economic development collaboration with the RDOS, financial plan amendments, the transit operating agreement, appointments for the 2026 General Local Election, and a covenant discharge for 399 Main Street. A request was made to the Province for greater data transparency regarding racism and discrimination.

The Social Housing and Infrastructure Plan for Penticton outlines a tactical, action-focused strategy to address affordable housing needs within the city. Key priorities include identifying current social housing requirements, fostering collaborative partnerships, and pinpointing development opportunities for housing and social services. The plan adopts a prevention-focused approach, aiming to expand social housing, enhance integrated support services, optimize affordable rental allocations, and improve transitional housing. Ultimately, it seeks to reduce and prevent homelessness by ensuring safe, healthy, and affordable housing is available for all residents, with projections for 1,749 new non-market units by 2046.