Merrilea N. Metcalf

This City Plan outlines a long-term vision for the City of Brandon, projecting to the year 2050. The plan envisions a future with a dedicated bike path system, efficient transit, neighborhoods designed for reduced car dependence, diverse housing options, and ample recreational opportunities. A key component of the plan is fostering a community where residents feel valued and engaged, actively seeking community feedback to confirm and shape this vision.

The meeting addressed a variance application (V-07-21) concerning the allowance of temporary worker accommodations (a seasonal work camp) in the industrial restricted zone at 1550 Richmond Avenue East for Paul's Hauling operations, which are crucial for seasonal fertilizer services. The variance request, which seeks to formalize an existing use operational since approximately 2013, included a proposal for a five-year validity period and conditions limiting operation to two months per calendar year concurrently with fertilizer services. Concerns raised by a property owner related to competition with the local hotel/rental market and compatibility were discussed, with the applicant clarifying the use is exclusive to their drivers and temporary. Following discussion, the variance application was approved, subject to conditions and authorization for the administration to prepare a development agreement. The Commission also began discussion on a rezoning application (Bylaw 7301) for Lot 1 Plan 48496 in the North Hill area.

The meeting commenced with the adoption of the agenda and confirmation of the previous meeting's minutes. The primary focus was the public hearing regarding amendments to the Southwest Brandon Secondary Plan, aimed at ensuring consistent terminology and policies across greenfield secondary plans, including updates related to land use flexibility, infrastructure, and green space terminology. Key discussion points included the proposal for a new francophone school site along Maryland Avenue and significant public concern regarding traffic congestion and road degradation on Durham Drive. Opponents of the proposed amendments requested the extension of Maryland Avenue to 34th Street, which administration detailed had been previously studied and determined unnecessary based on traffic volumes, noting land acquisition challenges for such an extension. Proponents discussed focusing on immediate traffic mitigation measures such as stop signs or exit-only designations for adjacent streets instead of immediate road extension.

This document outlines the City of Brandon's 10-Year Capital Plan, detailing projected capital expenditures across various asset classes from 2016 to 2035. The plan encompasses investments in categories such as airport equipment, disaster mitigation, emergency services, facilities, fleet, information technology, land drainage, office furnishings, parks & recreation, property, solid waste, transit, transportation/service, wastewater network, wastewater treatment, and water network.

The meeting agenda was adopted, and the minutes from the previous regular meeting of December 15, 2025, were confirmed. Key inquiries addressed during the session included the first-year survival rate for newly planted city trees (reported as approximately 90 percent with a three-year watering program), continued monitoring of speeding near Brandon University school zones, and planned crosswalk improvements at 26th Street and Maryland Avenue, including related intersections. A shrub that was subject of an enquiry was confirmed to have been removed. Council also received a presentation providing an overview of the proposed 2026 budget.