Powell River

The Council reviewed several key agenda items, including the advancement of the Election and Assent Voting Bylaw and the approval of financial transfers from the Sewer and Water Capital Reserve Accounts to the General Fund. The Council authorized the issuance of a development permit for a new industrial facility on Duncan Street. Additionally, updates were provided on zoning amendments for Barnet Street properties and the supportive housing facility on Complex Way. The Council also directed staff to apply for Intervenor status regarding the PREI license application and authorized budget amendments to support this initiative.

The council meeting addressed a variety of municipal items, including the approval of the 2024 Statement of Financial Information and the allocation of over $560,000 in spring grants from the Community Forest Reserve Fund for nine local projects. Legislative actions included first readings for zoning amendments regarding the Beach Gardens Complex and the sustainable official community plan, as well as the first three readings for a parks and recreation fees and charges bylaw. The council also renewed a temporary use permit for a personal service establishment and initiated a planning process for a 111-hectare land development project near Millennium Park, requiring staff to solicit feedback from neighboring residents and regional stakeholders. Furthermore, the Mayor issued proclamations for Neighbourhood Block Party Day and International Assistance Dog Week.

The Council endorsed the 'Forestry is a Solution' campaign and adopted an amended Council Travel Reimbursement Policy. Several bylaws were processed, including first, second, and third readings for amendments related to waterworks regulations and rates, the sewer collector system, sewage treatment and disposal, and sanitary system user rates, all aimed at financial sustainability for utilities. Additionally, the Council approved an amended Tourism Service Agreement with the qathet Tourism Society and received a delegation from Qwoqwhes Forestry Holdings regarding a forest operation transaction.

The Council approved policies regarding bylaw enforcement and candidate conduct while proclaiming June 2026 as ALS Awareness Month. Financial approvals included the Five-Year Financial Plan amendment, a budget increase for the Amenity Cost Charge/Development Cost Charge project, and contract awards for the theatre seating replacement. Planning directives were issued for zoning amendments on Barnet Street and the Downtown Plan. Additionally, the Council authorized several community grants and directed staff to pursue continued climate action funding.

The council adopted bylaws regarding the delegation of purchasing authority and the 2026 property tax rates. A development permit was issued for a building addition at 4446 Willingdon Avenue. The mayor proclaimed Economic Development Week for May 10-16, 2026. Staff were directed to investigate a housing authority model and to intervene in the Powell River Energy Inc. application, exploring potential joint approaches with the Tla'amin Nation and the qathet Regional District. Additionally, the council appointed a new Chief Financial Officer.