Mike Smith

The District of Clearwater's Five-Year Financial Plan (2023-2027) establishes the financial framework and policies for the municipality as required by the Community Charter. The plan focuses on diversifying economic sectors and fostering growth, managing fiscal responsibility through a balanced budget and reserve building, implementing infrastructure projects, and defining policies for property tax distribution and permissive tax exemptions. The overarching aim is to ensure the District's financial health and support community development.

This Interim Water Conservation Plan outlines a framework for water conservation activities over the next fifteen years, aiming to achieve a 1% annual reduction in water consumption. The plan proposes nine key initiatives, including public education, addressing data gaps, conducting leakage assessments, adjusting public policy, enhancing system maintenance, continuing water metering, developing financial models, incentivizing facility retrofits, and installing new flowmeters. The overarching goal is to increase community awareness of water habits, protect natural resources, safeguard public health, ensure long-term community resilience, and support evidenced-based decision-making for water management.

The council discussed various municipal matters, including the TNRD Area A director's update on advocacy and budget planning. Significant actions included directing staff to draft an amended Fees and Charges Bylaw and increasing 2026 utility fees for water, sewer, and septage. The council also authorized the purchase of a covered storage shelter for fire department equipment, approved a plan for the 2026 Clearwater Regatta, and facilitated a brine header repair at the North Thompson Sportsplex. Additionally, the council supported the renewal of the MRDT with Tourism Wells Gray and authorized an application to the Rural Economic Development and Infrastructure Program for a community wayfinding project. Concerns were formally raised regarding Private Member's Bill M216, and the council committed to supporting Adoption and Permanency Awareness Month.

The workshop focused on the review of the 2026-2030 Financial Plan, with staff directed to manage specific initiatives and projects. Additionally, the Council held an in camera session to discuss matters concerning labour and employee relations, negotiations for municipal services, and objectives for the upcoming annual report.

The District of Clearwater's Official Community Plan (OCP) serves as a long-term blueprint for guiding growth and development, aiming to create a vibrant rural community that balances expansion with environmental protection and preserves its small-town character. The plan outlines a vision for sustainable growth, environmental stewardship, and economic diversity, ensuring a high quality of life for all residents. Key strategic goals include fostering an inclusive community with diverse social and recreational opportunities, preserving historic and rural character, promoting environmental sustainability, enhancing quality of life through accessible services, building integrated infrastructure, attracting young families with diverse housing, supporting aging in place, cultivating a resilient and diversified economy, promoting a business-friendly environment, and strengthening reconciliation with First Nations.