Holly R. Chappell Benoit

The agenda for the Regular Meeting of Council focused primarily on the Draft 2026 Municipal Budget and Taxation Structure Options, requiring Council direction on whether to maintain the current tax structure or establish a Fire Protection Special Tax for improved transparency. Key financial reports reviewed included operating revenues and expenditures, cheque listings, and bank reconciliations up to February 28, 2026. New business also covered the first readings of Bylaw #279-26 regarding the repeal of obsolete bylaws and Bylaw #280-26 concerning the Fire Protection Special Tax Bylaw and 2026 cost recovery. Additionally, discussions addressed a Letter of Support for Provincial Aquatic Invasive Species Task Force Recommendations and an information report from Parkland Community Planning Services.

The Council meeting agenda covered several key items for the Regular Meeting of Council. Business arising from previous minutes included information reports regarding the Temporary Field Authorization (TFA) and Water Act Approval for Boat Launch & Marina Maintenance, and an update on the SVRS Website renewal. Financial reports reviewed covered operating revenue and expenditures, cheque listings, and bank reconciliations up to December 31, 2025. New Business included a Request for Decision (RFD) regarding supporting the Rochon Sands Bay Marina Society's application for a Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP) grant, and an RFD to approve the purchase of solar-powered cellular security cameras following a break-in and theft at the Narrows PRA campground during the holiday season. Closed session discussions were scheduled for the Beach Street Flood-Protection Project's draft provincial grant agreement.

The agenda for the Council meeting includes several key items for discussion and decision. New business involves consideration of the 2024 Annual ASVA Conference & AGM scheduled for October, a Bylaw to Amend Land Use Bylaw 244-19 to correct clerical errors (Bylaw # 268-24), and Requests for Decision (RFD) concerning Development Permits 2024-02 and 2024-03, as well as the Apex Utilities Inc. Franchise Fee. A significant discussion point is the proposal for a cost-effective solution to replace the beach boardwalk using reclaimed wooden docks from the Rochon Sands Bay Marina Association. The agenda also includes financial reports up to August 31, 2024, and a closed session to review the CAO Performance Review.

The organizational meeting focused on establishing key administrative and operational structures for the Council. Primary actions included the approval of the agenda, the appointment of the Chief Elected Official (Mayor Dan Hiller) and the Deputy Chief Elected Official (Councillor Blaine Brinson). Council also appointed all three members as signing authorities. Furthermore, the Council established the regular meeting schedule to occur on the Second Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM and scheduled a Strategic Planning session for Fall 2024. Decisions were made regarding Council remuneration rates and appointments for essential services, including the Property Assessor, Financial Auditor, Legal Counsel, Safety Codes Inspectors, and Banking Institution. Appointments were also made for representation on various regional boards and committees.

This strategic plan outlines the long-term direction for the Summer Village of Rochon Sands, focusing on enhancing community well-being and sustainable development. Key strategic pillars include improving income generation, upgrading community facilities, implementing environmental enhancements, and ensuring community safety. The plan emphasizes fostering community involvement, providing effective leadership, and promoting economic development. Specific areas of focus include ensuring quality drinking water, attracting businesses, engaging youth, modernizing infrastructure, and strengthening communication and branding, alongside securing grants for various municipal services and capital projects.