Stewart Novak

The council discussed the approval of financial grants for local high school after-grad events, emphasizing the need for future policy discussions regarding grant caps. The meeting also included a report on the village's official community plan, focusing on housing needs, land use designations, and the requirement for secondary road access and wildfire development permits. Furthermore, the council reviewed the draft Port Moody 2050 official community plan, noting alignment with village policies on natural environment protection, recreation, and infrastructure development.

The council meeting addressed several operational and policy matters. Key discussion topics included public submissions regarding road upgrades and drainage issues, a presentation from a school trustee covering school cell phone and device policies, student enrollment growth, international student programs, the operating budget, cyber security, and future facilities planning. The council also processed items on the consent agenda.

The council discussed various items, including a contentious motion regarding property rights, which was ultimately treated as correspondence for future consideration at upcoming provincial municipal conferences. Additionally, the council reviewed the 2025 audit findings presented by the external auditor, resulting in a clean audit opinion. The meeting concluded with staff providing an overview of the village's 2025 financial statement highlights and an examination of reserve fund balances.

This 2025 Investment Plan for TransLink aims to address a significant structural operating deficit while expanding transit services and advancing early priorities from the 'Access for Everyone' plan. Key initiatives include a substantial increase in bus service, progression of design work for new Bus Rapid Transit corridors, enhanced transit capacity, and improved infrastructure for all road users. The plan is funded through a combination of increased transit fares, property taxes, parking taxes, and a significant operating contribution from the Government of British Columbia, with a focus on achieving long-term financial sustainability and supporting regional goals for housing, affordability, climate action, and economic growth.

The council discussed various operational items, including correspondence from Metro Vancouver Parks regarding construction plans and engagement for the Admiralty Heights area. The meeting also addressed a request for financial assistance from the Sasamat Firefighter's Association and an eligible school site requirements proposal from School District 43. Additionally, staff reports were presented on the marine pipeline inspection results, which confirmed the system's structural integrity, and a proposed service contract renewal for the Waste and Recycle Depot, aiming to improve operational efficiencies and reduce contamination.