New Westminster public meetings in 2024

Council Meeting

Council approved relocation requests for two cannabis stores, subject to removal of cannabis retail zoning at their current locations upon Council approval. It also received cultural observances recommendations from the Community Advisory Assembly, directing staff to respond and prioritize work in 2025. Several bylaws were adopted, including amendments to the Electrical Utility Bylaw and Engineering User Fees, with some opposition.

• Approved North Root Cannabis relocation to East Columbia Street, Sapperton, with zoning removal at existing location (carried, Fontaine opposed)
• Approved Queensborough Cannabis relocation to Downtown, with zoning removal at existing location (carried, Fontaine opposed)
• Directed staff to proceed with Cannabis Regulatory Framework review (carried, Fontaine opposed)
• Received Community Advisory Assembly cultural observances recommendations and directed staff to report back in first half of 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved $200.3M revised multi-year capital budget and $0.5M quarterly adjustments (consent)
• Adopted Electrical Utility Bylaw amendment (carried, Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Adopted Engineering User Fees and Rates Bylaw amendment (carried, Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Approved two-year extension of vehicle procurement policy allowing direct purchase up to $100,000 (consent)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

The Council is meeting to formally close the session to the public. This action allows the body to discuss items that meet the Community Charter's criteria for closed meetings.

• Item 5.1: Preliminary negotiations for a municipal service and confidential government negotiations
• Items 6.1 & 6.3: Receipt of solicitor-client privileged advice
• Item 6.2: Personal information regarding a municipal officer, employee, or agent
• Item 8.1: Labour or employee relations

Council Workshop

Council is reviewing a presentation and report regarding 'reGENERATE,' a long-range vision for the area surrounding the 22nd Street SkyTrain Station. Staff are seeking endorsement of the vision and approval to proceed with implementation actions.

• Proposed endorsement of reGENERATE: A Long Range Vision for the Neighbourhood Around the 22nd Street SkyTrain Station
• Proposed staff workplan for implementation actions and development application timeline to be reported in Q1 of 2025

Council unanimously endorsed reGENERATE, a long-range vision for the neighbourhood around the 22nd Street SkyTrain Station, and directed staff to proceed with implementation actions, including reporting back in Q1 2025 with a workplan and timeline for accepting development applications. Council also directed that its workshop comments be incorporated into the vision. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Endorsed reGENERATE: A Long Range Vision for the Neighbourhood Around 22nd Street SkyTrain Station (unanimous)
• Directed staff to proceed with implementation actions and report back in Q1 2025 with a workplan and timeline for accepting development applications (unanimous)
• Directed that Council comments from the Dec 16 workshop be incorporated into the Vision (unanimous)

Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee will discuss the 2025 work plan and review several ongoing projects. Presentations include an overview of Langford's arts district and updates on art services, a crises response pilot, and the First Capital Shops at New West. The meeting also includes a time capsule opening and regular verbal updates from staff and councillors.

• City of Langford – The Langford Station arts and culture district overview
• 2024 review and discussion on the 2025 work plan for the ACEDAC committee
• Art Services update (Todd Ayotte, Manager, Community Arts & Theatre)
• Crises Response Pilot Project update (Ria Renouf, Communications Coordinator)
• First Capital – Shops at New West update (Councillor Ruby Campbell)

The Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee adopted its agenda with two added items: an arts-based tenant at 100 Braid Street and Sapperton Business Collective representation. They received updates on the 2025 work plan, arts services, crisis response, and the upcoming Economic Forum. No formal decisions were made on these items; the committee carried motions to recognize New Media Gallery staff and to allow Erin Jefferies to participate in dialogue.

• Adopted agenda with added items on 100 Braid Street tenant and Sapperton Business Collective (carried)
• Recognized Gordon Duggan and Sarah Joyce for contributions to arts community (carried)
• Permitted Erin Jefferies to participate in Committee dialogue (carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:33 a.m. (carried)

Community Advisory Assembly

The provided agenda contains only procedural software placeholders and boilerplate text. There are no specific decisions, proposals, or discussion items listed.

The Community Advisory Assembly held a working session to review its Terms of Reference and develop recommendations for City Council. Members unanimously voted to recommend that the Assembly model continue, with detailed feedback on topics like membership, governance, and meeting frequency to be shared with Council. No formal decisions were made beyond this recommendation.

• Voted unanimously to recommend continuation of the Assembly model to Council
• Agreed to present cultural observance recommendations to Council on Dec 16, 2024
• Scheduled Jan 16, 2025 meeting to discuss Council's role and celebrate Assembly work

New Westminster Design Panel

The New Westminster Design Panel will consider a rezoning application and special development permit for a high‑density residential project at 65 First Street, proposing two towers of 30 and 35 storeys with 304 condo units, 299 market‑rental units and 30 below‑market rental units. Staff and the applicant will present the design, after which the panel will provide comments and decide whether to support the project or request revisions. The meeting also includes routine items such as a land acknowledgement, agenda changes, and adoption of previous minutes.

• Rezoning and Special Development Permit for 65 First Street – two residential towers (30 & 35 storeys) with 304 condo, 299 market‑rental, and 30 below‑market rental units
• Staff presentation of the 65 First Street design submission
• Applicant presentation of the 65 First Street design submission

The New Westminster Design Panel reviewed the rezoning application and special development permit for a multi-tower residential development at 65 First Street. The panel unanimously supported the proposal, which includes two residential towers (35 and 30 storeys) with 633 units, and provided comments for applicant and staff consideration. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Supported 65 First Street rezoning application and special development permit (unanimous)
• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes from March 26, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:17 p.m. (unanimous)

Council Workshop

Council is meeting to identify a preferred funding strategy for the 2025-2029 General Fund Five-Year Capital Plan. The body will also seek confirmation on the 2025 property tax rate and review housing and climate reports.

• Draft 2025-2029 General Fund Five-Year Capital Plan and Funding Strategy
• Confirmation of the 2025 property tax rate
• Endorsement of the Interim Housing Needs Report 2024-2044
• Funding application to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities for a Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Plan

Council rescinded its earlier approval of a 7.6% property tax rate and approved a 6.6% rate for the 2025 operating budget, with Councillor Minhas opposed. They also endorsed the Interim Housing Needs Report 2024-2044, with Councillors Fontaine and Minhas opposed, and approved a funding application to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities for a climate adaptation plan, with Minhas opposed. The preferred capital budget scenario for 2025-2029 was set as Scenario 3, with Fontaine and Minhas opposed, and an amendment to remove a Queensborough walking infrastructure item was defeated.

• Rescinded 7.6% property tax rate approval (unanimous)
• Approved 6.6% property tax rate for 2025 (opposed: Minhas)
• Endorsed Interim Housing Needs Report 2024-2044 (opposed: Fontaine, Minhas)
• Approved letter to provincial and federal governments on capital funding gaps (unanimous)
• Approved FCM climate adaptation funding application (opposed: Minhas)
• Identified Capital Budget Scenario 3 as preferred option (opposed: Fontaine, Minhas)
• Defeated amendment to remove Queensborough quick-build walking infrastructure (opposed: Mayor, Campbell, Henderson, McEvoy)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Workshop)

The council is closing the meeting to the public under Section 90 of the Community Charter. The closure applies to items 4.1 and 4.2, which involve negotiations and related discussions about a proposed municipal service at preliminary stages. The council believes public discussion could harm municipal interests. No other agenda items are listed.

• Closure of council meeting to public for items 4.1 & 4.2 (preliminary municipal service negotiations)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

The New Westminster City Council meeting on December 2, 2024 was closed to the public. The closure was based on Section 90 of the Community Charter for items 5.1‑90(1)(m) and 6.1‑90(2)(b). No agenda items were selected for discussion, and no attachments were provided.

• Closure of meeting under Community Charter item 5.1‑90(1)(m)
• Closure of meeting under Community Charter item 6.1‑90(2)(b)

Council Workshop

Council is reviewing proposed service enhancements and property tax rate scenarios for the 2025 General Fund Operating Budget. The meeting also covers the 2025-2029 Five-Year Capital Plan and proposed scope additions for the Massey Theatre renovation.

• Proposed HVAC upgrades and public realm improvements for the Massey Theatre Renovation project
• Draft 2025 General Fund Operating Budget service enhancements and funding strategies
• Three property tax impact scenarios for the 2025 General Fund Operating Budget
• Draft 2025-2029 General Fund Five-Year Capital Plan and funding strategy

Council unanimously approved adding an upgraded HVAC system, minimum site needs, and recommended site improvements to the Massey Theatre renovation project, with further analysis of scheduling and costs to be reported by February 28, 2025. A motion to approve a 7.6% property tax rate for the 2025 operating budget was carried, with Councillors Fontaine and Minhas opposed, after a motion to defer the decision to December 16 was defeated on a tied vote. The draft 2025-2029 capital plan was referred to the December 9 workshop.

• Approved adding HVAC upgrades, minimum site needs, and recommended site improvements to Massey Theatre renovation scope (unanimous)
• Directed staff to analyze project sequencing and cost estimates for at least two closure scenarios, reporting by Feb 28, 2025 (unanimous)
• Directed engagement of an objective third party for consultation on schedule and cost scenarios (unanimous)
• Approved 7.6% property tax rate for 2025 operating budget (carried; Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Referred draft 2025-2029 capital plan to Dec 9 workshop (unanimous)
• Defeated motion to defer property tax rate decision to Dec 16 workshop (tied vote; Mayor and Campbell, McEvoy opposed)

Council Meeting

The New Westminster City Council will review and vote on several bylaws, including an Official Community Plan amendment and a zoning amendment to enable a 45‑unit townhouse development at 1135 Salter Street, along with a related Development Variance Permit. The meeting also includes readings of borrowing, engineering fee, and electrical utility bylaws, and endorsement of an updated Age‑Friendly Community Strategy work plan.

• Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 7925, 2017, Amendment Bylaw No. 8454, 2024 and Zoning Bylaw No. 6680, 2001, Amendment Bylaw No. 8455, 2024 for 1135 Salter St (45‑unit townhouse) – first and second readings and public hearing referral
• Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Amendment Bylaw No. 8480, 2024 to authorize up to $3 million temporary borrowing for 2025
• Engineering User Fees and Rates Bylaw No. 7553, 2013, Amendment Bylaw No. 8496, 2024 – set 2025 rates for sewer, solid waste and water utilities
• Electrical Utility Bylaw No. 6502, 1998, Amendment Bylaw No. 8497, 2024 – set 2025 electrical utility rates
• Age‑Friendly Community Strategy Update Work Plan – staff directed to proceed with proposed plan

Council unanimously approved creating a Vision Zero Task Force to recommend ways to eliminate traffic fatalities, with Councillor Fontaine as liaison. It also advanced several bylaws, including first and second readings for the 1135 Salter Street OCP and rezoning amendments, and approved fee and borrowing bylaw amendments. A motion to explore limiting new vape shops was carried unanimously, including a resolution to the provincial association.

• Struck Vision Zero Task Force with representatives from engineering, NWFR, NWPD, ICBC, Fraser Health, TransLink, SD40, HUB Cycling, Walkers Caucus, accessibility community, and youth (unanimous)
• Appointed Councillor Fontaine as Council liaison to Vision Zero task force (5-2, opposed Campbell, McEvoy)
• Approved staff work plan to update Age-Friendly Community Strategy (unanimous)
• Gave first and second readings to OCP Amendment Bylaw 8454 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw 8455 for 1135 Salter Street (unanimous)
• Gave first, second, and third readings to Engineering User Fees Bylaw 8496 and Electrical Utility Bylaw 8497 (5-2, opposed Fontaine, Minhas)
• Gave first, second, and third readings to Revenue Anticipation Borrowing Amendment Bylaw 8480 (unanimous)
• Adopted Council Procedure Bylaw Amendment 8493 (unanimous)
• Directed staff to report on options to limit new vape shop licences and submit resolution to LMLGA (unanimous)

Council Workshop

The council workshop will review the proposed 2025 utility budgets and rate changes for electric, water and solid waste services, and decide which sewer rate scenario to adopt. Staff will also present the Strategic Priorities Plan Implementation Strategy for information and funding considerations. Council will endorse the Social Planning Work Program for 2025‑2026 in principle.

• Approve 2025 utility rates for Electric, Water and Solid Waste utilities
• Provide direction on the preferred 2025 Sewer rate scenario
• Approve the Utility Fund 2025‑2029 Capital Plans and Climate Action Service Enhancements
• Receive the Strategic Priorities Plan Implementation Strategy report for information
• Endorse in principle the Social Planning Work Program for 2025‑2026

Council approved a 10% sewer and drainage utility rate increase for 2025, choosing Scenario 3 over staff's recommended 18% (Scenario 1). The 2025 utility rates for electrical (3.5%), water (6%), and solid waste (12%) were also approved, along with the 2025-2029 capital plans and service enhancement requests. An amendment to temporarily reduce the Climate Action Levy to 0.5% and exclude $440,818 in BridgeNET enhancements was defeated. Council also endorsed the Social Planning Work Program for 2025-2026 and directed staff to review intersection safety near schools and develop a business case for a new downtown library.

• Approved 10% sewer and drainage utility rate for 2025 (5-2, Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Approved 2025 utility rates for electrical (3.5%), water (6%), and solid waste (12%) (5-2, Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Approved 2025-2029 Utility Fund Capital Plans and service enhancement requests (5-2, Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Directed staff to prepare bylaws to amend 2025 utility rates (unanimous)
• Defeated amendment to temporarily reduce Climate Action Levy to 0.5% and exclude $440,818 for BridgeNET (4-3, Mayor and Campbell, Henderson, McEvoy opposed)
• Approved staff report on Strategic Priorities Plan Implementation Strategy (unanimous)
• Approved amendment for staff to review intersection safety near schools with SD40 (5-2, Mayor and Campbell opposed)
• Approved amendment for staff to develop business case for new downtown library (5-2, Mayor and Campbell opposed)

Community Advisory Assembly

The agenda for the November 21, 2024 Community Advisory Assembly contains no listed items; it only shows placeholders and procedural headings.

The Community Advisory Assembly finalized and adopted a Cultural Observances Framework, which categorizes observances into City-led, City-supported, and awareness-raising activities. The framework was approved by a show-of-hands vote. The Assembly also discussed the future of the multigenerational community assembly model, with a survey planned for January 2025.

• Adopted Cultural Observances Framework with three categories (show of hands)
• Removed community-driven guideline from Category C (majority show of hands)
• Supported accessible information, standardized criteria, diverse representation, and online calendar guidelines (show of hands)
• Adopted revisions to framework preamble (show of hands)

Advisory Planning Commission (APC)

The Advisory Planning Commission will review the 1084 Tanaka Court development proposal. Staff will present the project summary, Official Community Plan amendment, and rezoning applications. The commission will be asked to vote either in support of or against the proposed amendments and rezoning.

• Staff presentation on 1084 Tanaka Court project
• Vote on Official Community Plan Amendment No. 8483 and Rezoning Amendment No. 8484 for 1084 Tanaka Court

The Advisory Planning Commission unanimously supported the proposed Official Community Plan Amendment and Rezoning for 1084 Tanaka Court. The applicant, representing the owner, cited a critical shortage of industrial land and the economic inviability of the previous 2018 zoning. The commission noted concerns about the broad M1 zoning and its potential impact on the nearby bike path. The motion was carried unanimously.

• Adopted the November 19, 2024 meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted the September 17, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Supported the OCP Amendment and Rezoning for 1084 Tanaka Court (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:33 p.m. (unanimous)

Council Workshop

The council workshop will receive a Q4 2024 update on the Crises Response Pilot Project and will be asked to direct staff to provide a further update in Q2 2025. Council will also consider a report on options for accelerating sidewalks in Queensborough, including a Class A construction cost estimate for the Fenton Street streetscape, and will be asked to give feedback and direction on the costing information.

• Crises Response Pilot Project – Q4 2024 update and recommendation for a Q2 2025 follow‑up
• Response to Motion: Options for accelerating sidewalks in Queensborough, with a Class A cost estimate for Fenton Street

Council directed staff to include funds for designing the full build-out of Fenton Street, include a quick-build sidewalk treatment on prioritized streets in Queensborough in the 2025 Capital Budget, explore increased maintenance funds, revise the snow and ice response plan to prioritize streets without sidewalks, and hold a community conversation with translation services. The motions were carried, with two councillors opposed to the quick-build option and the community conversation. Council also received an update on the Crises Response Pilot Project and directed staff to provide a further update in Q2 2025.

• Approved funding for design of full Fenton Street build-out (unanimous)
• Approved Option 4 quick-build sidewalk treatment for prioritized Queensborough streets (5-2, Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Approved exploring increased maintenance funds in operating budget (unanimous)
• Approved revising snow and ice response plan to prioritize streets without sidewalks (unanimous)
• Approved holding a community conversation with translation services (5-2, Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Directed staff to provide further Crises Response Pilot Project update in Q2 2025 (unanimous)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

The New Westminster City Council met on November 18, 2024 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber. The meeting was closed to the public under Community Charter sections 90(1)(d) (security of municipal property) and 90(1)(e) (acquisition, disposition or expropriation of land). No agenda items were selected or attached for discussion, so no decisions or proposals were presented.

Council Meeting

At the November 18 regular council meeting, members will consider a temporary use permit for 502 Columbia Street, adopt several consent‑agenda items, and vote on two zoning bylaw amendments that introduce family‑friendly housing requirements and EV‑ready parking standards for new non‑residential buildings. The council will also review a $60,000 funding request from the New Westminster Chamber of Commerce and approve the proposed 2025 council meeting schedule and procedural updates.

• Approve Temporary Use Permit No. TUP00032 for 502 Columbia Street
• Adopt Zoning Bylaw Amendment No. 8486, 2024 – Family Friendly Housing Policy
• Adopt Zoning Bylaw Amendment No. 8494, 2024 – Electric Vehicle Ready Requirements for new non‑residential buildings
• Approve $60,000 funding request for New Westminster Chamber of Commerce ($50,000 fee‑for‑service, $10,000 in‑kind costs)
• Approve 2025 Council meeting schedule, updated delegation protocol, and revised Notice of Motion Process Policy (including readings of Council Procedure Bylaw No. 6910, Amendment No. 8493)

Council approved Temporary Use Permit TUP00032 for 502 Columbia Street, allowing the site to operate as a shelter for up to one year, with an added requirement that the operator sign a Good Neighbour Agreement within 90 days. The initial motion to issue the permit was defeated, but an amended motion passed with Councillors Fontaine and Minhas opposed. Council also approved the 2025 meeting schedule, a new delegation protocol, and a revised Notice of Motion policy limiting members to one motion per meeting.

• Approved TUP00032 for 502 Columbia Street with Good Neighbour Agreement requirement (5-2)
• Defeated initial motion to issue TUP00032 without amendment (5 opposed)
• Approved $60,000 funding request for Chamber of Commerce (unanimous)
• Adopted 2025 Council Meeting Schedule (5-2)
• Approved new delegation protocol (unanimous)
• Approved revised Notice of Motion policy limiting to one motion per meeting (6-1)
• Adopted Zoning Bylaw Amendment for Family Friendly Housing Policy (unanimous)
• Adopted Zoning Bylaw Amendment for Electric Vehicle Ready Requirements (unanimous)

Utility Commission

The New Westminster Utility Commission meeting will open with a land acknowledgement and agenda approval. Commissioners will receive a presentation on the 2025‑2029 electric utility rates. An update on the Electric Utility Commission Strategic Plan will also be presented. The items are for information, discussion, and possible action.

• Call to order and land acknowledgement
• Approval of the agenda
• Presentation on 2025‑2029 electric utility rates by the Director of Finance and Deputy Director of Electrical Services
• Update on the Electric Utility Commission Strategic Plan by the Deputy Director of Climate Action

The Utility Commission recommended a 3.5% electric utility rate increase for Council consideration, with Councillor Minhas opposed. The increase is part of a five-year plan to build reserves for infrastructure and climate action projects. The Commission also discussed the upcoming strategic plan, noting that a consultant has been retained and the plan will be submitted in the second quarter of 2025.

• Recommended 3.5% electric utility rate increase for Council consideration (carried, opposed: Cllr. Minhas)
• Adopted the November 5, 2024 agenda (carried unanimously)
• Adjourned the meeting at 3:50 p.m. (carried unanimously)

Council Meeting

Council will adopt several business licence bylaws, including Inter‑Municipal Business Licence Agreement Bylaw No. 8487, Scheme Bylaw No. 8475, and Business Licence Bylaw No. 8473. Council will approve a temporary use permit (TUP00033) for properties at 28, 32, 34 Sixth Street and 606 Clarkson Street. Council will consider a $885,000‑per‑year, two‑year grant application to Health Canada’s Emergency Treatment Fund for a Crises Response Pilot Project, and will also consider a zoning amendment (Bylaw No. 8494) to require electric‑vehicle‑ready parking in new non‑residential buildings.

• Adopt Inter‑Municipal Business Licence Agreement Bylaw No. 8487 and Scheme Bylaw No. 8475
• Adopt Business Licence Bylaw No. 8473
• Approve Temporary Use Permit TUP00033 for 28‑32‑34 Sixth Street & 606 Clarkson Street
• Authorize $885,000‑per‑year grant application for two‑year Crises Response Pilot Project under Health Canada Emergency Treatment Fund
• Consider Zoning Bylaw No. 8494 amendment for electric‑vehicle‑ready requirements in new non‑residential buildings

Council approved a one-year Temporary Use Permit for a 24/7 winter emergency shelter at 28, 32, 34 Sixth Street and 606 Clarkson Street, despite public opposition. Council also adopted two inter-municipal business licence bylaws, approved a $885,000/year grant application for a crisis response pilot, and gave readings to zoning amendments for family-friendly housing and EV-ready non-residential buildings.

• Approved Temporary Use Permit TUP00033 for one-year emergency shelter at Cliff Block (unanimous)
• Adopted Inter-Municipal Business Licence Agreement Bylaw No. 8487 (unanimous)
• Adopted Inter-Municipal Business Licence Scheme Bylaw No. 8475 (unanimous)
• Adopted Business Licence Bylaw No. 8473 (unanimous)
• Authorized $885,000/year for two years grant application for Crises Response Pilot Project (unanimous)
• Gave first, second, third reading to Family Friendly Housing Policy zoning amendment (unanimous)
• Gave first, second, third reading to EV Ready Requirements for non-residential buildings zoning amendment (unanimous)
• Referred energy savings program motion to Utility Commission (unanimous)

Council Workshop

The New Westminster Council will hold a workshop to receive a quarterly update on the Crises Response Pilot Project. Staff will present a report and PowerPoint detailing progress and key developments. The meeting is scheduled for November 4, 2024.

• Crises Response Pilot Project: Q4 2024 Update
• Recommendation: Council to direct staff for a further update in Q2 2025
• Meeting held in Council Chamber, Second Floor, City Hall
• Meeting held in Council Chamber, Second Floor, City Hall
• Meeting held in Council Chamber, Second Floor, City Hall

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

The New Westminster City Council closed the November 4, 2024 meeting to the public. The closure cites Section 90 of the Community Charter for items related to land acquisition, privacy, solicitor‑client privilege, labour relations, and preliminary service negotiations. No specific agenda items were selected for discussion.

• No specific agenda items were selected; meeting closed for confidential matters

Special Council Meeting

The City of New Westminster Council will meet to make a final determination regarding a Code of Conduct matter. The agenda includes a report from the Ethics Commissioner and a formal response from the respondent.

• Final determination of Code of Conduct matter
• Report from Ethics Commissioner dated September 23, 2024
• Summary Report from Ethics Commissioner dated October 2024
• Formal response from Respondent dated October 24, 2024

Council accepted the Ethics Commissioner's investigation report and ordered the respondent to receive individualized training or coaching in relevant Community Charter provisions, as recommended. An amendment to add a $5,000 donation to a charity was defeated. The main motion carried with two councillors opposed.

• Accepted Ethics Commissioner's Investigation Report dated September 23, 2024 (carried)
• Ordered respondent to receive individualized training or coaching in Community Charter provisions (carried, 5-2)
• Defeated amendment to recommend $5,000 donation to Don't Go Hungry charity (defeated)
• Defeated amendment to refer additional remedies to a subsequent meeting (defeated)

Special Council Meeting

The council will receive additional information on the rezoning proposal for 88 Tenth Street. It will consider Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8485, 2024 for three readings and discuss directing at least 80% of density‑bonus funds to the city’s Land Acquisition Reserve for affordable housing. A public hearing on the amendment is prohibited.

• Rezoning: 88 Tenth Street (Columbia Square) – Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8485, 2024 (three readings)
• Recommendation to direct a minimum of 80% of density‑bonus funds to the Land Acquisition Reserve for affordable housing
• Covenant to secure 20% of rental floor space as below‑market rental under a 60‑year (or life‑of‑building) agreement
• Endorsement of the Columbia Square Policy Statement as the basis for a master plan
• Public hearing prohibited for the rezoning amendment

Council gave three readings to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8485, 2024 for the Columbia Square site at 88 Tenth Street, with amendments requiring 80% of density bonus funds go to the Affordable Housing Reserve, 20% of rental floor space as below-market HILS units for 60 years, and directing staff to work with School District No. 40 to secure a school site. The motion carried with Councillors Fontaine and Minhas opposed. The rezoning is not final until adoption, which will follow a master plan process.

• Approved three readings of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8485, 2024 (Columbia Square) (5-2)
• Endorsed Columbia Square Policy Statement as basis for master plan
• Directed 80% of density bonus funds to Affordable Housing Reserve
• Required 20% of rental floor space as below-market HILS units for 60 years
• Directed staff to work with applicant and School District No. 40 to secure school site
• Received additional applicant/staff information from October 21 meeting

Council Workshop

The City of New Westminster Council will receive a presentation and report on public survey responses regarding the 2025 budget. The meeting is a workshop held in the Council Chamber.

• 2025 Budget Public Survey Responses presentation
• Budget Survey Report (2024-589.pdf)
• Appendix A Resident Survey Results
• Appendix B Business Survey Results

Council received the 2025 Budget Public Survey responses for information. The survey showed most residents are satisfied with city services and prefer a tax increase over service cuts. No decisions were made beyond receiving the report.

• Received 2025 Budget Public Survey responses (unanimous)

Community Advisory Assembly

The agenda for the New Westminster Community Advisory Assembly on 2024-10-26 contains no listed items. No decisions, proposals, or public hearings are documented. The meeting appears to be procedural with no substantive agenda items.

The Community Advisory Assembly met on October 26, 2024, and discussed cultural observances, including reviewing feedback from a prior meeting and participating in group activities to explore implementation categories. No formal decisions were made; the discussion was advisory, with recommendations from previous meetings scheduled for Council presentations in November and December 2024.

• No formal decisions made; meeting was discussion-only

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

The council declared the October 21, 2024 meeting closed under Section 90 of the Community Charter. The closure covers items related to solicitor‑client privileged advice, land acquisition or disposition, prohibited information under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, preliminary municipal service negotiations, municipal property security, and personal information about municipal staff. No agenda items or attachments were disclosed.

• Item 4.1 – solicitor‑client privileged advice
• Items 6.1 & 7.1 – land acquisition, disposition, or expropriation
• Item 6.1 – prohibited information under FOIP Act
• Items 6.1 & 6.2 – preliminary municipal service negotiations
• Item 7.1 – municipal property security; Item 7.2 – personal staff information

Council Workshop

The New Westminster Council Workshop will consider endorsing an updated Family Friendly Housing Policy and will forward a related zoning amendment for future readings. Council will also decide that no public hearing is required for the policy. In addition, members will seek clarification on a 2024 resolution about the Growing Communities Fund and set expectations for selecting recreation projects from that reserve.

• Endorse the proposed Family Friendly Housing Policy (Attachment 1).
• Forward Zoning Amendment Bylaw (Family Friendly Housing) No.8486, 2024 to the November 4, 2024 Regular Meeting for First, Second and Third Readings.
• Approve that no public hearing be held for the Family Friendly Housing Policy, per the Local Government Act.
• Provide clarification on the January 8, 2024 resolution regarding use of the Growing Communities Fund for recreation investments.
• Confirm Council’s expectations for the process to identify candidate projects funded from the Growing Communities Fund Reserve.

New Westminster Council unanimously endorsed updates to the Family Friendly Housing Policy, requiring higher percentages of two- and three-bedroom units in new multi-unit developments. The Council directed that Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8486, 2024, be forwarded for readings at the November 4 meeting without a public hearing. Additionally, Council unanimously directed staff to clarify guidelines for using the provincial Growing Communities Fund for recreation projects.

• Endorsed updated Family Friendly Housing Policy (unanimous)
• Forwarded Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8486, 2024 for Nov 4 readings (unanimous)
• Directed no Public Hearing for the zoning bylaw (unanimous)
• Established 5-year target to be middle tier in Metro Vancouver for 3+ bedroom units in multi-family dwellings (unanimous)
• Directed staff to clarify Growing Communities Fund guidelines for recreation projects (unanimous)

Council Meeting

The council will consider three readings of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8485 to rezone 88 Tenth Street and endorse the Columbia Square Policy Statement for a high‑density, mixed‑use, transit‑oriented development. It will also review the Business Licence Bylaw No. 8473 for first, second and third readings and forward it to an Opportunity to be Heard. Additional items include a request to waive the $1,120.30 fee for a Temporary Use Permit for an emergency winter shelter, and motions on budget matters such as a temporary elimination of the Climate Action Levy and a property‑tax scenario capped at 4.5%.

• Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8485 (88 Tenth Street) – three readings and policy endorsement
• Business Licence Bylaw No. 8473 – first, second and third readings
• Temporary Use Permit (TUP00033) for emergency shelter – fee waiver of $1,120.30
• Rezoning and Development Permit for 140 Sixth Street – possible 30‑40 storey towers
• Motion to eliminate the 3.5% Climate Action Levy for 2025 budget

Council postponed the decision on the 88 Tenth Street (Columbia Square) rezoning to a special meeting on October 28 at 12:00 p.m. The motion to postpone was carried unanimously. Council also gave three readings to the new Business Licence Bylaw and directed staff to develop a 2025 budget option with a property tax increase of no more than 4.5%.

• Postponed 88 Tenth Street rezoning decision to Oct 28 special meeting (unanimous)
• Gave 1st, 2nd, and 3rd reading to Business Licence Bylaw No. 8473, 2024 (unanimous)
• Directed staff to prepare 2025 budget option with property tax increase of no more than 4.5% (unanimous)
• Defeated motion to temporarily eliminate 3.5% Climate Action Levy on electricity bills (4 opposed)
• Directed staff to work with applicant on 140 Sixth Street proposal, considering towers of 30-40 storeys (adopted on consent)
• Directed staff to prepare development plan for 65 First Street and explore childcare options (unanimous)
• Approved notice for Temporary Use Permit for emergency winter shelter at Cliff Block Residence, waived $1,120.30 fee (5-1)
• Appointed Acting Mayors for November 2024 through October 2025 (adopted on consent)

Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee will receive informational reports and presentations on the Film Office's recent activities, a local business promotion effort at the Anvil Centre, an update to the Arts Council Strategy Plan, details about the New West Chamber Forum scheduled for November 20, 2024, and an update from Art Services. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Film Office – overview and update of activities
• Anvil Centre – local business promotion presentation
• Arts Council – strategy plan update
• New West Chamber Forum – scheduled for November 20, 2024
• Art Services – update from the manager

The committee received updates on the Film Office's activities and revenue, discussed Anvil Centre business promotion, and heard staff updates. No formal motions or decisions were made; the only action was directing staff to initiate a conversation about screening locally made productions.

• Adopted meeting agenda as circulated (unanimous)
• Directed Film Coordinator to initiate conversation with Film Commission and Creative BC about screening local productions

Council Meeting

New Westminster Council will discuss Metro Vancouver's governance structure and vote on construction noise exemptions for the Royal Columbian Hospital and 100 Braid Street projects. The meeting also includes the adoption of several 2025 fee bylaws and a public presentation on the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant.

• Construction noise exemption for Royal Columbian Hospital (330 East Columbia Street)
• Construction noise exemption for 100 Braid Street crane removal
• Bylaws for adoption: 2025 fees for Anvil Theatre, Planning & Development, and Fire & Rescue
• Municipally Significant Events guidelines and decision-making matrix
• Metro Vancouver governance review request

Council approved the Interim Density Bonus Policy and revised Interim Development Review Framework, rejecting an amendment to include density bonus payments for purpose-built market rental housing. The motion was carried with Councillors Fontaine and Minhas opposed. Council also voted to have staff report on joining the Sue Big Oil class action lawsuit and to ban acceptance of funds from 'Big Oil' for sponsorships.

• Approved Interim Density Bonus Policy and revised Interim Development Review Framework (carried, Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Rejected amendment to include density bonus payments for purpose-built market rental housing
• Directed staff to report on joining Sue Big Oil class action lawsuit and assess costs via Climate Action Decision-Making Framework (carried, Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Established policy banning acceptance of funds from 'Big Oil' for sponsorships (carried, Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Requested independent review of Metro Vancouver governance structure (carried unanimously)
• Supported installing a 'New Westminster' sign on waterfront (carried, Campbell and Nakagawa opposed)
• Directed staff to report on 'Cycling Sundays on Front Street' pilot (carried, parts A and B unanimous; part C carried with Johnstone and Campbell opposed)
• Defeated part of Queensborough Bridge consultation plan to develop resident/business interest plan (defeated, Johnstone, Campbell, Henderson, Nakagawa opposed)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

This meeting is procedural in nature to authorize the closure of the council session. The body is determining if specific agenda items comply with the Community Charter for closed-door discussions.

• Item 5.1: Negotiations between the municipality and provincial or federal government
• Items 5.2, 5.3, 5.4: Preliminary discussions regarding a proposed municipal service
• Item 5.3: Acquisition, disposition or expropriation of land
• Item 8.1: Receipt of advice subject to solicitor-client privilege

Council Workshop

City Council is meeting for a workshop to receive a presentation on the New Westminster Police Department's 2025 operational budget. The report is provided for the council's information.

• Presentation of the 2025 New Westminster Police Department Operational Budget

City Council held a workshop to review the New Westminster Police Department's proposed 2025 operational budget, which includes a potential 10.03% increase. Council voted unanimously to receive the 2025 Operational Budget Discussion report for information.

• Received the 2025 Operational Budget Discussion report for information (Carried unanimously)

Community Advisory Assembly

The agenda for the New Westminster Community Advisory Assembly on 2024-09-26 contains no listed items; only generic placeholders and procedural elements are shown.

The Community Advisory Assembly agreed to move its October 19 meeting to October 26, 2024, after concerns about conflicting with the provincial election. Members also approved sending a climate change and intersectionality summary report to City staff, with additions on food insecurity and other climate solutions. The group began discussions on cultural observances, but no formal decisions were made on that topic.

• Rescheduled October 19 meeting to October 26, 2024 (21 members raised hands)
• Approved sending climate change summary report to City staff with additions on food insecurity and other climate solutions (all members raised hands)

Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss staff and guest reports. The session focuses on accessibility standards for a specific park kiosk and hearing assistance technology.

• Queen's Park Concession Kiosk accessibility wording
• Hearing Loop Technology information

The Accessibility Advisory Committee adopted its agenda as amended and discussed several accessibility topics. It decided to use both the universal symbol and text to identify the lower counter at the Queen's Park Concession Kiosk for priority access. The committee also discussed wording revisions for the Access and Inclusion statement in the Fall 2024 Active Living Guide, with a member volunteering to gather feedback. No formal decisions were made on the other discussion items.

• Adopted September 25, 2024 agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Decided to use both universal symbol and text for lower counter at Queen's Park Concession Kiosk

Council Meeting

Council will consider a $0.7 M quarterly capital budget adjustment and a revised multi‑year capital budget of $199.8 M. The meeting includes first, second and third readings of seven fee and charges bylaws for 2025. A construction noise bylaw exemption is proposed for a sewer inspection on Columbia Street from October 1‑10, 2024. Staff will report on the Strategic Priorities Plan and seek endorsement of an Interim Density Bonus Policy and a revised Development Review Framework.

• $0.7 M quarterly capital budget adjustment and $199.8 M revised multi‑year capital budget approval
• First, second and third readings of seven 2025 fee and charges bylaws (Engineering, Climate Action, Cultural Services, Anvil Theatre, Fire Protection, Electrical Utility, Fees)
• Construction Noise Bylaw exemption for sewer inspection on Columbia Street (100‑800 Block) for three nights Oct 1‑10, 2024
• Endorsement of Interim Density Bonus Policy and revised Interim Development Review Framework
• Strategic Priorities Plan quarterly status update and move to semi‑annual reporting

Council approved the Interim Density Bonus Policy and Revised Interim Development Review Framework, with an amendment to include density bonus payments for purpose-built market rental housing. The motion passed with opposition from Mayor Johnstone and Councillors Campbell and Nakagawa on parts 1 and 2, and from Mayor Johnstone and Councillor Campbell on part 3. Council also approved $0.7M in 2024 capital budget adjustments and a $199.8M revised multi-year capital budget, and granted a construction noise exemption for sewer work on Columbia Street.

• Approved $0.7M 2024 capital budget adjustments and $199.8M revised multi-year capital budget (unanimous)
• Approved Interim Density Bonus Policy with market rental payments (parts 1-2 carried, opposed by Mayor Johnstone, Cllrs. Campbell, Nakagawa)
• Endorsed Revised Interim Development Review Framework (carried, opposed by Mayor Johnstone, Cllr. Campbell)
• Granted construction noise exemption for Columbia Street sewer CCTV inspection (unanimous)
• Adopted 2025 Permissive Property Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 8474 (unanimous)
• Gave first, second, third readings to seven fee amendment bylaws (unanimous)
• Directed staff to develop City-wide Public Toilet Strategy (carried, opposed by Cllrs. Fontaine, Minhas)
• Referred Surrey Metro 2050 amendment to Oct 7 meeting and invited Surrey delegation (unanimous)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

The New Westminster City Council meeting on September 23, 2024 was closed to the public under Section 90 of the Community Charter. Items 5.1 and 5.3 were cited under clause 90(1)(k) for preliminary negotiations on a municipal service, and item 5.2 under clause 90(1)(a) for personal information about a municipal employee. No agenda items were selected for discussion and no attachments were provided.

Advisory Planning Commission (APC)

The Advisory Planning Commission will receive a report and presentation titled “reGENERATE: Big Moves & Strategy Highlights for a Vision for the 22nd Street neighbourhood.” The commission is asked to provide comments on the big‑moves and strategy highlights for the neighbourhood around the 22nd Street SkyTrain station. No formal decisions are listed beyond the request for comments.

• Report: reGENERATE – Big Moves & Strategy Highlights for 22nd Street neighbourhood
• Recommendation: APC to provide comments on the report and presentation

The Commission received a staff presentation on the reGENERATE vision for the 22nd Street Neighbourhood, including a proposed commercial high street along 21st Street and potential grocery anchor. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with staff answering questions and community members offering input. The Commission adopted its agenda and minutes from five prior meetings.

• Adopted the September 17, 2024 agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes from December 19, 2023 (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes from January 16, 2024 (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes from February 20, 2024 (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes from April 16, 2024 (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes from May 21, 2024 (unanimous)

Council Meeting

City Council will review proposed property tax exemptions for 2025 and updates to various user fees and rates. The body is also discussing tenant relocation policy updates and potential regulations for graphic imagery in unsolicited mail.

• 2025 Permissive Property Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 8474, 2024
• Budget 2025 Fees and Rates Review for engineering, planning, cultural, fire, and electric services
• Construction Noise Bylaw exemption for sewer inspections at 220 Salter Street
• Proposed update to Tenant Relocation Policy using Burnaby’s model
• 2024-2034 UBCM Canada Community Works Fund Agreement

Council directed staff to update the City's Tenant Relocation Policy using Burnaby's Tenant Assistance Policy as a model, and to pause work on the Homelessness Needs Assessment to prioritize this work. Council also gave readings to the 2025 Permissive Property Tax Exemption Bylaw, approved in principle 2025 fee and rate changes, and endorsed next steps for Business Licence Bylaw modernization. Several motions were carried, including one to regulate unsolicited distribution of graphic fetal images and one requesting the Province to act on lobbyist registration.

• Directed staff to update Tenant Relocation Policy using Burnaby's model (unanimous)
• Paused Homelessness Needs Assessment to prioritize tenant policy work (unanimous)
• Gave 2025 Permissive Property Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 8474 first, second, third readings (unanimous)
• Approved in principle 2025 fees and rates changes (unanimous)
• Endorsed Business Licence Bylaw modernization next steps (unanimous)
• Directed staff to draft bylaw amendments on graphic fetal image distribution (unanimous)
• Approved motion requesting Province act on lobbyist registration (unanimous)
• Approved Canada Day 2025 public engagement motion, with amendment (carried, Nakagawa opposed on Part 1)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

The New Westminster City Council declared the September 9, 2024 meeting closed under Section 90 of the Community Charter. The closure covers personal information about a municipal officer, preliminary negotiations for a municipal service, solicitor‑client privileged advice, and confidential intergovernmental negotiations. No other agenda items were selected for discussion.

• Closure under Item 5.1 – 90(1)(a): personal information about a municipal officer
• Closure under Item 5.1 – 90(1)(k): preliminary negotiations for a municipal service
• Closure under Items 6.1 & 8.2 – 90(1)(i): solicitor‑client privileged advice
• Closure under Item 8.1 – 90(2)(b): confidential intergovernmental negotiations

Council Workshop

Council is meeting to discuss the reGENERATE vision and strategy highlights for the neighbourhood surrounding the 22nd Street Station. The body is seeking input on these strategy highlights and direction on whether to proceed with a second round of public engagement.

• reGENERATE: Big Moves for a Vision for the 22nd Street Neighbourhood presentation

Council unanimously directed staff to conduct a second round of public engagement for the reGENERATE vision for the 22nd Street SkyTrain Station neighbourhood. The vision includes seven themes such as transit village, housing capacity, and climate-friendly buildings. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting also included a land acknowledgement and agenda approval.

• Approved second round of public engagement for 22nd Street neighbourhood vision (unanimous)
• Adopted the September 9, 2024 Council Workshop agenda (unanimous)

Special Council Meeting

The Special City Council will open with a land acknowledgement, approve the agenda, and discuss the 2025 budget tax rate proposal. No other items are listed on the agenda. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• 2025 Budget – tax rate proposal

The September 5, 2024 special council meeting was called to order but the agenda was defeated in a vote, with Mayor Johnstone and Councillors Campbell and Henderson opposed. No other business was conducted, and the meeting adjourned unanimously at 4:09 p.m. A proposed recommendation to direct staff to develop a budget scenario with a property tax increase of no more than 4.5% was attached as Schedule 1 but was not adopted.

• Agenda for September 5, 2024 special council meeting defeated (Mayor Johnstone, Councillors Campbell and Henderson opposed)
• Meeting adjourned unanimously at 4:09 p.m.

Utility Commission

The Electric Utility Commission is meeting to receive reports on the Energy and Climate Action Department's organizational structure and partnerships with BC Hydro. The body will also review correspondence regarding BC Utilities Commission decisions on the energy transition.

• Report on Energy and Climate Action Department Organizational Structure
• Report on deepening partnerships with BC Hydro on Program Delivery
• Correspondence regarding BC Utilities Commission Decisions and Local Government Interests in the Energy Transition
• Adoption of minutes from October 3, 2023, February 20, 2024, and May 22, 2024

The Electric Utility Commission met and unanimously adopted the agenda and minutes from previous meetings. The commission received three reports for information: the Energy and Climate Action Department organizational structure, deepening partnerships with BC Hydro on program delivery, and BC Utilities Commission decisions and local government interests in the energy transition. No new business was discussed, and the meeting moved into a closed session under Section 90(1)(k) of the Community Charter.

• Adopted the September 3, 2024 agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes from October 3, 2023, February 20, 2024, and May 22, 2024 (unanimous)
• Received verbal report on Energy and Climate Action Department structure for information (unanimous)
• Received correspondence on BC Utilities Commission decisions for information (unanimous)
• Moved into closed session under Section 90(1)(k) of the Community Charter (unanimous)

Council Meeting

New Westminster City Council will meet to decide on a food primary liquor licence extension for Hyack Sushi at 200-55 Eighth Street, along with several construction noise bylaw exemptions for major projects including TransLink’s SkyTrain upgrades, Metro Vancouver’s Queensborough Pump Station, and the Royal Columbian Hospital redevelopment. Council will also consider amendments to various bylaws, including zoning changes for townhouse developments and fee updates for parks and recreation services.

• Liquor licence extension for Hyack Sushi (200-55 Eighth Street) to allow Sunday–Thursday 9AM–1AM and Friday–Saturday 9AM–2AM
• Construction noise exemption for TransLink at New Westminster SkyTrain Station (32 Eighth Street) from Aug 27–Nov 30, 2024
• Construction noise exemption for Metro Vancouver Queensborough Pump Station (304 Wood Street) for two nights between Sep 16–Oct 7, 2024
• Construction noise exemption for Royal Columbian Hospital Redevelopment (330 East Columbia Street) for one night between Sep 4–17, 2024
• Zoning amendment for 1005 Ewen Avenue to allow 23 townhouse/duplex units and a commercial building

Council approved a consent agenda including extended liquor service hours for Hyack Sushi, three construction noise exemptions, and a grant application. Nine bylaws were adopted unanimously, including zoning amendments and heritage agreements. A motion to review business license and recreation fees was defeated, while a motion to expand the Walking School Bus program was carried as amended.

• Approved extended liquor hours for Hyack Sushi at #200-55 Eighth St (consent)
• Granted noise exemption to TransLink for SkyTrain station work at 32 Eighth St (consent)
• Granted noise exemption to Metro Vancouver for Queensborough Pump Station work (consent)
• Granted noise exemption to EllisDon Design Build for Royal Columbian Hospital work (consent)
• Approved grant application to UBCM Asset Management Planning Program (consent)
• Adopted 9 bylaws including zoning amendments at 1005 Ewen Ave and 1923/1927 Marine Way (unanimous)
• Defeated motion to review business license and recreation fees vs other Metro Vancouver cities (Mayor and 2 councillors opposed)
• Carried amended motion to expand Walking School Bus program with partnership funding approach (unanimous)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

The City Council announced that the August 26, 2024 meeting will be closed to the public under the Community Charter. Items 5.1 and 8.1 are subject to closure because they involve labour relations, possible land acquisition, personal information, or solicitor‑client privileged advice. No specific agenda items or decisions are disclosed in the posted agenda.

• Item 5.1 – labour relations or land acquisition (confidential under Section 90(1))
• Item 8.1 – personal information or solicitor‑client privileged advice (confidential under Section 90(1))

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

The New Westminster City Council held a special meeting on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Council Chamber at City Hall. The council declared the meeting closed to the public, citing Community Charter Section 90 items related to personal information, labour relations, litigation, and solicitor‑client privilege. No agenda items were selected for discussion and no attachments were provided.

• Closure of the meeting under Community Charter Section 90 (items a, c, g, i)

Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee will discuss recommendations from the Anvil Centre 10-year Review. The meeting also includes updates on grant refinements, tourism, and public toilet strategies.

• Anvil Centre 10-year Review recommendations
• Phased Approach to Grants Refinement 2024
• Invest Vancouver Annual Plan 2024
• New West City Pass - Tourism New West
• Freestanding Public Toilet Comprehensive Strategy

The Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee met on August 8, 2024, and unanimously elected Angelene Prakash as Alternate Chair for the 2024 term. The committee also received updates on the Anvil Centre 10-year review, a phased grants review, and the Invest Vancouver Advisory Committee, but made no other formal decisions.

• Elected Angelene Prakash as Alternate Chair (unanimous)
• Adopted June 20, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Added budget survey as new business item (unanimous)
• Invited Gwendolyn Maddock as Chamber of Commerce representative (unanimous)

Accessibility Advisory Committee

The committee will receive reports and presentations on the Neurodiverse/Autism Decal Project, a council motion regarding accessibility to the Riverfront, and a review of its Terms of Reference. It will also adopt minutes from the March 27 and May 22, 2024 meetings. No new business items were selected for decision at this meeting.

• Report on Neurodiverse/Autism Decal Project
• Presentation of June 10, 2024 Motion from Council: Accessibility to the Riverfront
• Review of the Terms of Reference
• Adoption of minutes from March 27, 2024 meeting
• Adoption of minutes from May 22, 2024 meeting

The Accessibility Advisory Committee discussed accessibility challenges at the riverfront, including elevator outages, limited accessible parking, and transit issues, and agreed to refer these points to staff for follow-up. The committee also heard a presentation on a neurodiverse decal program and approved inviting Steven Ngo to a future meeting. No formal decisions were made on these topics.

• Adopted March 27, 2024 minutes as circulated (unanimous)
• Adopted May 22, 2024 minutes with amendments (unanimous)
• Invited Steven Ngo to participate in the July 24, 2024 meeting (unanimous)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Workshop)

The New Westminster City Council held a closed workshop on July 15, 2024. The meeting was closed to the public because items 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3 fall under Section 90 of the Community Charter. No public agenda items or attachments were presented.

• Closure under Section 90(1)(i) – receipt of advice subject to solicitor‑client privilege (Item 4.1, 4.2 & 4.3)
• Closure under Section 90(1)(g) – litigation or potential litigation affecting the municipality (Item 4.2)
• Closure under Section 90(1)(a) – personal information about a municipal officer, employee or agent (Item 4.3)

Council Workshop

The New Westminster City Council workshop will seek feedback and direction on a Heritage Revitalization Agreement and Special Development Permit for a mixed‑use residential and commercial project at 530 Columbia Street (Columbia Theatre). Council will also receive updates on food‑security initiatives, including a decision not to pursue a weekly food program at Hunter Heights while continuing collaboration with local food‑bank partners. Recommendations from the Anvil Centre 10‑year Review will be presented for feedback and approval, and a Mobile Food Vending Licence Bylaw amendment for temporary locations will be considered for adoption.

• Heritage Revitalization Agreement – mixed‑use development at 530 Columbia Street (Columbia Theatre)
• Food Security Update – directive to halt investigation of weekly program at Hunter Heights and continue partnership with Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society
• Anvil Centre 10‑year Review – council feedback and approval to implement recommendations, with implementation costs outlined
• Mobile Food Vending Licence Bylaw Amendment (Temporary Locations) Bylaw No. 8471, 2024 – adoption to allow temporary food‑truck sites
• Agenda approval – standard procedural item

Council instructed staff to process development applications for a 30-storey mixed-use project at 530 Columbia Street. The board also approved implementation of Anvil Centre review recommendations and adopted an amendment to the Mobile Food Vending Licence Bylaw.

• Instructed staff to process Heritage Revitalization Agreement and Special Development Permit for 530 Columbia Street (Unanimous)
• Directed staff to stop investigating Hunter Heights for a weekly food program (Unanimous)
• Directed staff to work with Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society and other food security organizations (Unanimous)
• Approved sending a letter to the Prime Minister and MP supporting price caps on essential grocery items (Carried; Cllrs. Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Approved Anvil Centre review recommendations and referred the report to the Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee (Unanimous)
• Adopted Mobile Food Vending Licence Bylaw Amendment No. 8471, 2024 (Carried; Cllrs. Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Directed staff to report back with a bylaw amendment to remove clause 17A of Bylaw No. 7850 after six months (Unanimous)

Council Meeting following Public Hearing

The Council will review a proposed $18.7 million capital budget adjustment and a revised $199.1 million multi-year capital budget. The agenda also includes third readings for rezoning 801 Boyd Street and requests for construction noise bylaw exemptions at Salter Street and Brunette Avenue.

• $18.7M capital budget adjustment and $199.1M revised multi-year capital budget
• Third reading for rezoning 801 Boyd Street to Queensborough Mixed Employment
• $250,000 capital request for E Columbia Street/Brunette Avenue road safety improvements
• Noise bylaw exemption for sewer inspections at 220 Salter Street
• 4.06% increase to Council remuneration

Council advanced several zoning and fee bylaws and approved transit priority measures. They also directed staff to review Council remuneration and advocate for senior renter financial relief.

• Approved third reading of OCP and Zoning amendments for 801 Boyd Street
• Approved transit priority measures from Bus Speed and Reliability Study
• Approved $18.7M quarterly capital budget adjustments
• Approved Zoning Amendment Bylaw for 1923 & 1927 Marine Way
• Approved Parks and Recreation Fees Amendment Bylaw No. 8465, 2024
• Directed staff to conduct a formal review of Council Remuneration Policy
• Directed staff to advocate to the Province for senior renter financial relief
• Approved liquor licence change for Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 2

Public Hearing

The City is considering amendments to the Official Community Plan and zoning for 801 Boyd Street. The proposal involves subdividing a parcel of the Queensborough Landing Shopping Centre site to permit a four-storey self-storage facility with 1,081 climate controlled units.

• Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 8448, 2024
• Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8449, 2024
• Development of a four-storey self-storage building with 1,081 units
• Subdivision of a 4,496 sq. m. parcel at 805 Boyd Street

Council held a public hearing regarding Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 8448, 2024 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8449, 2024 for 801 Boyd Street. No speakers came forward during the hearing. Both bylaws were referred to the July 8, 2024 Regular Council meeting for further consideration.

• Received one written submission regarding 801 Boyd Street (Unanimous)
• Referred Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 8448, 2024 to Regular Council meeting (Unanimous)
• Referred Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8449, 2024 to Regular Council meeting (Unanimous)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

This meeting involves a motion to close the Council session to the public. The closure is requested under Section 90 of the Community Charter regarding solicitor-client privilege and personal information.

• Motion to close meeting for solicitor-client privilege (Items 5.1 & 5.2)
• Motion to close meeting regarding personal information (Item 5.2)

Council Workshop

The Council is reviewing updates to the procurement policy and development application process. The workshop also includes discussions regarding Massey Theatre capital projects and the 2025 budget engagement methodology.

• Proposed increase of sole source approval thresholds to $500,000
• Modifying construction project tendering requirements for projects over $200,000
• Review of the Development Application Process and potential new Clerk positions
• Update on HVAC work and site scope for Massey Theatre Capital Project
• Feedback on 2025 budget public engagement methodology

Council approved a business case analysis for Massey Theatre HVAC and landscape work and updated procurement thresholds for construction and sole source contracts. The board also endorsed changes to the development application process and the 2025 budget engagement methodology.

• Directed staff to report back with business case for Massey Theatre HVAC and evaluate landscape work (Unanimous)
• Confirmed 2023-2026 Strategic Priorities Plan priorities (Carried; Cllrs. Fontaine, Minhas opposed)
• Endorsed staff's understanding of Comprehensive Public Toilet Strategy (Carried; Cllrs. Fontaine, Minhas opposed)
• Directed staff to proceed with 2025 budget public engagement incorporating Council feedback (Carried; Cllr. Nakagawa opposed)
• Approved aligning construction project tendering requirements with New West Partnership Trade Agreement (Unanimous)
• Approved increasing sole source approval threshold to $500,000 before Council approval (Carried; Cllrs. Fontaine, Minhas opposed)
• Endorsed Development Review Process changes and two Clerk positions for 2025 budget (Carried; Cllrs. Fontaine, Minhas opposed)

Council Meeting

The Council will review proposals for a new self-storage facility at 801 Boyd Street. Other agenda items include authorizing a short-term rental information sharing agreement and developing a City Fair Wage Policy. The meeting also addresses construction noise exemptions and updates to engineering user fees.

• Rezoning 801 Boyd Street for a four-storey self-storage building
• Short Term Rental Information Sharing Agreement with the Province
• Development of a City Fair Wage Policy
• Construction noise exemption at 1900 Block Stewardson Way
• Amendments to Street and Traffic and Engineering User Fees bylaws

Council approved a Development Variance Permit for supportive housing at 602 Agnes Street and advanced rezoning bylaws for 801 Boyd Street. A motion to halt the installation of a permanent public toilet at Begbie Street was defeated, but Council directed staff to develop a city-wide public toilet strategy and immediately install increased signage. Several bylaws regarding transit-oriented areas and small-scale housing were adopted unanimously.

• Approved Development Variance Permit DVP00730 for 602 Agnes Street (unanimous)
• Advanced Official Community Plan and Zoning Amendment bylaws for 801 Boyd Street to Public Hearing (opposed by Cllr. Henderson)
• Adopted Transit Oriented Area Designation Bylaw No. 8460, 2024 (unanimous)
• Adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8453, 2024 for small-scale multi-unit housing (unanimous)
• Directed staff to develop a city-wide comprehensive public toilet strategy (opposed by Cllrs. Fontaine and Minhas)
• Directed staff to immediately install increased signage for publicly funded toilets (opposed by Mayor Johnstone and Cllr. Campbell)
• Defeated motion to halt installation of permanent public toilet at Begbie Street and Front Street
• Authorized signing of Province’s Short Term Rental Information Sharing Agreement (consent)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

This agenda covers the procedural closure of the Council meeting to the public. The session will address specific items regarding personnel information, municipal service negotiations, and land-related matters.

• Personal information regarding a municipal officer or employee (Item 5.1)
• Negotiations for municipal services (Item 6.1)
• Land acquisition, disposition, or expropriation (Items 7.1.a & b)
• Security of municipal property (Item 7.1.b)

Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee

The committee will review reports regarding the Three Crises Response Pilot Project and the Retail Strategy status update. Members will also receive information on downtown public toilets and economic development strategies. Staff updates include discussions on grants, the Public Art Plan, and a new exhibition at New Media Gallery.

• Three Crises Response Pilot Project report
• Retail Strategy Status Update
• Downtown BIA City Services Information Resources
• Update on Downtown Public Toilet
• Arts New West presentation on New West Craft

The Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee met on June 20, 2024, and adopted its agenda and the April 11, 2024 minutes unanimously. The committee received presentations and updates on the Three Crises Response Pilot, a Downtown BIA resource guide, the Retail Strategy, New West Craft, a downtown public toilet, the Economic Development Strategy, grants review, Anvil Centre review, Public Art Plan, Arts Strategy Refresh, and a new New Media Gallery exhibition. No substantive motions were decided beyond adopting the agenda and previous minutes; most items were reports for information or discussion.

• Adopted the June 20, 2024 agenda as circulated (unanimous)
• Adopted the April 11, 2024 minutes with a change (unanimous)

Council Workshop

Council is reviewing a recommendation to install a permanent free-standing toilet on Begbie Street. The workshop also addresses a temporary policy to allow liquor patios to operate until 11:00 pm through November 1, 2024.

• Installation of a Permanent Free-Standing Toilet (PFT) on Begbie Street between Columbia Street and Front Street
• Temporary policy for liquor licence patios to operate until 11:00 pm until November 1, 2024
• Endorsement of applications for increased patio hours through the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch

Council directed staff to install a permanent free-standing toilet on the west side of Begbie Street with a budget of $650,000. Council also approved a temporary policy extending patio hours for food and liquor establishments until November 1, 2024.

• Approved installation of Permanent Free-Standing Toilet on Begbie Street (Opposed: Cllrs. Fontaine, Minhas)
• Approved temporary policy permitting liquor licence patios to operate until 11:00 p.m. until November 1, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved endorsement of applications to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch for increased hours (Unanimous)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Workshop)

This agenda consists of procedural items regarding the closure of a Council workshop to the public. The proposed closure is based on discussions involving land acquisition, solicitor-client privilege, and municipal service negotiations.

• Motion to close meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter
• Discussion of land acquisition, disposition, or expropriation
• Discussion of solicitor-client privilege communications
• Discussion of municipal service negotiations

Community Advisory Assembly

The provided document contains only procedural software metadata and boilerplate text. No specific meeting topics, discussions, or decisions are recorded in this agenda.

The Community Advisory Assembly almost unanimously approved, by show of hands, sending a summary document with road reallocation recommendations to City staff. The rest of the meeting was a facilitated discussion on climate change and intersectionality, with no other decisions recorded. Staff noted the BC Building Code now requires one cool room in apartment buildings without air conditioning.

• Approved sending road reallocation summary document with recommendations to City staff (almost unanimous, by show of hands)
• No other substantive decisions recorded; remainder of meeting was facilitated discussion on climate change and intersectionality

Council Meeting

Council will review bylaws implementing provincial requirements for transit-oriented areas and small-scale multi-unit housing. The agenda also includes motions regarding tenant protections, outdoor event fees, and an inquiry into wastewater treatment plant cost overruns.

• Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8453 (Transit Oriented Area and Small Scale Multi Unit Housing)
• Transit Oriented Areas Designation Bylaw No. 8460
• Motion for independent review of $4 billion North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant cost overruns
• Development Variance Permit for 114-118 Sprice Street
• DVP for security changes at 602 Agnes Street affordable housing project

Council gave first, second, and third readings to two zoning bylaws tied to transit-oriented areas and small-scale multi-unit housing, all carried unanimously. Council also approved a tenant protection motion directing the City to update its tenant protection and relocation policies, using Burnaby's as a model, after an amendment to that motion was defeated. Several other motions were defeated, including one on State of the City accessibility, one on outdoor events review, and one requesting a Metro Vancouver review of North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant cost overruns. Council approved a development variance permit for 114-118 Sprice Street and gave notice for a development variance permit at 602 Agnes Street for an affordable housing project.

• Gave first, second, and third readings to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8453, 2024 (Transit Oriented Area and Small Scale Multi Unit Housing Amendments) — carried unanimously at each reading
• Gave first, second, and third readings to Transit Oriented Area Designation Bylaw No. 8460, 2024 — carried unanimously at each reading
• Approved issuance of Development Variance Permit No. DVP00697 for 114-118 Sprice Street — carried unanimously
• Approved a motion that future rezoning reports include a concise financial summary of fees, charges, levies, deposits and other ancillary costs — carried with Mayor Johnstone and Cllr. Campbell opposed
• Approved a tenant protection motion directing the City to update tenant protection and relocation policies using Burnaby's as a model — carried unanimously; an amendment to replace the resolution clause with an evidence-based approach and staff best-practice review was defeated
• Defeated a motion to prohibit the Mayor from hosting future State of the City events not fully accessible to the public free of charge — defeated on a tied vote
• Defeated a motion to establish a citizen-based taskforce to review outdoor events policies, procedures and permit fees — defeated
• Defeated a motion requesting Mayor Johnstone to submit a motion to Metro Vancouver calling for an independent public inquiry into North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant cost overruns — defeated on a tied vote

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

This agenda is for a pre-closed open meeting focused on transitioning from an open session to a closed session. The items listed are procedural motions to move into a private session to discuss negotiations, land matters, and municipal services.

• Negotiations with provincial or federal governments
• Land acquisition, disposition, or expropriation
• Preliminary discussions regarding municipal service provision
• Matters subject to solicitor-client privilege
• Security of municipal property

Community Heritage Commission (CHC)

The Community Heritage Commission will review a presentation regarding Woodlands Interpretation Panels and their history. The meeting also includes the adoption of minutes from January 3 and February 7, 2024.

• Woodlands Interpretation Panels Presentation
• Adoption of January 3, 2024, minutes
• Adoption of February 7, 2024, minutes

The Commission adopted the agenda and previous minutes unanimously. It received an informational presentation on Woodlands Interpretation Panels with no decision made. The Commission discussed a proposal to demolish the Queens Avenue United Church for affordable housing, noting staff reports found limited heritage value, but took no formal action or vote on the matter.

• Agenda adopted with addition of Queens Avenue United Church item (unanimous)
• January 3, 2024 minutes adopted (unanimous)
• February 7, 2024 minutes adopted (unanimous)
• Woodlands Interpretation Panels presentation received for information only (no decision)
• Queens Avenue United Church proposal discussed; no vote taken

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

This is a pre-closed open meeting of New Westminster City Council. The only substantive action is a motion to close the meeting to the public, citing Section 90(1)(m) of the Community Charter for items 4.1 and 4.2. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Motion to close meeting to public for items 4.1 and 4.2 under Section 90(1)(m) of the Community Charter

Council Workshop

The City Council is reviewing a work plan to accelerate affordable housing by exploring zoning and official community plan amendments. Staff also presented a report regarding joining the Provincial Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Program. This includes proposed updates to the Street and Traffic Bylaw.

• Affordable Housing Acceleration Work Plan proposal
• Provincial Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Program report back
• Proposed amendments to Street and Traffic Bylaw No. 7664, 2015
• Plan for electric scooter data collection and public communication

At its June 3, 2024 workshop, council unanimously directed staff to proceed with the Affordable Housing Acceleration Work Plan, which would explore zoning changes to allow up to six-storey affordable rental projects by non-profit providers. Council also unanimously directed staff to prepare for the City to join the Provincial Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Program, amend the Street and Traffic Bylaw, implement a public communications plan, and develop a data collection program. Both items were workshop directions to staff; no bylaws were adopted at this meeting.

• Directed staff to proceed with the Affordable Housing Acceleration Work Plan (unanimous)
• Directed staff to begin preparations to join the Provincial Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Program (unanimous)
• Directed staff to amend the Street and Traffic Bylaw (Bylaw No. 7664, 2015) for e-scooters (unanimous)
• Directed staff to prepare and implement an e-scooter public communications plan (unanimous)
• Directed staff to develop an e-scooter data collection program (unanimous)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Workshop)

This is a pre-closed open meeting (workshop) of the New Westminster City Council. The agenda includes a call to order, land acknowledgement, and a motion to close the meeting to the public under Section 90(1)(f) of the Community Charter for a law enforcement matter. No other substantive items are listed.

• Motion to close meeting to public under Community Charter Section 90(1)(f) for law enforcement
• Meeting held electronically and open to public attendance
• Land acknowledgement for Halkomelem speaking peoples

Joint Council and School Board Meeting (Open)

The Joint Council and School Board will receive several verbal updates from the City of New Westminster and the School District. A primary focus is a presentation regarding the implementation of new provincial housing legislation, including specific bylaws for transit-oriented areas and zoning amendments.

• Presentation on Provincial Housing Legislation Implementation
• Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8453, 2024
• Transit Oriented Areas Designation Bylaw No. 8460, 2024
• Infill Housing and Townhouse Acceleration Work Plans
• Update on Memorial Park at New Westminster Secondary School

New Westminster's City Council and Board of Education held a joint meeting on June 3, 2024, to discuss traffic safety, school advocacy, tree planting, youth programs, and provincial housing legislation. The only recorded decisions were procedural: council removed the Memorial Park item from the agenda and adopted the amended agenda, then adjourned at 7:19 p.m. No substantive motions, votes, or approvals on the discussion topics were recorded.

• Deleted agenda Item 3.1 (Memorial Park at New Westminster Secondary School) and adopted the amended agenda (unanimous)
• Adjourned the June 3, 2024 Special Council meeting at 7:19 p.m. (unanimous)

Council Workshop

This is a Council Workshop where staff will present on implementing new provincial housing legislation (Bill 44 and Bill 47), including proposed zoning and transit-oriented area bylaws, and seek Council direction. Council will also review work plans for infill housing and townhouse acceleration programs, and discuss the community engagement approach for a new city logo. No final decisions are made at this workshop; recommendations will go to a future Regular Council meeting.

• Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8453, 2024 (Transit Oriented Area and Small Scale Multi Unit Housing Amendments)
• Transit Oriented Area Designation Bylaw No. 8460, 2024
• Infill Housing Acceleration program work plan
• Townhouse Acceleration program work plan
• Community engagement approach for new City logo

Council forwarded two bylaws regarding transit-oriented and small-scale multi-unit housing to the June 10 meeting. The board also directed staff to proceed with infill and townhouse acceleration work plans and approved the launch of a community engagement process for a new city logo.

• Forwarded Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8453 and Transit Oriented Area Designation Bylaw No. 8460 to June 10 meeting (Unanimous)
• Approved work plan for Infill Housing Acceleration program (Unanimous)
• Approved work plan for Townhouse Acceleration program (Unanimous)
• Endorsed engagement objectives and directed staff to launch community engagement for new corporate logo (Carried; Cllrs Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Denied amendment to delay logo engagement process until November 2026 (Defeated)
• Denied amendment to require an informal online vote on at least three logo options (Defeated)

Council Meeting

This is a regular City Council meeting with a large consent agenda covering construction noise exemptions, a 4.3% Development Cost Charge increase, the Queensborough Transportation Plan, and preparation to join the provincial e-scooter pilot. Council will also hold public hearings and give three readings to two rezoning bylaws, plus consider several motions from councillors.

• Noise exemption for EllisDon at Royal Columbian Hospital (330 East Columbia St) for Saturday work, June 1, 2024–May 31, 2025
• Noise exemption for Marcon Construction at 612 Seventh Ave for a concrete pour on June 15 or 22, 2024
• Development Cost Charges increase by 4.3% (Bylaw No. 8456, 2024)
• Rezoning 310 Blackley St from M-1 to RT-3A (Bylaw No. 8450, 2024)
• Rezoning 1005 Ewen Ave for 23 townhouse/duplex units and commercial building (Bylaw No. 8452, 2024)

Council approved the Queensborough Transportation Plan and authorized several zoning amendments. They also granted construction noise exemptions for the Royal Columbian Hospital and a concrete pour on Seventh Avenue. A motion to request the provincial government halt drug decriminalization was defeated.

• Endorsed Queensborough Transportation Plan (Carried)
• Approved noise exemption for 330 East Columbia Street (Adopted on consent)
• Approved noise exemption for 612 Seventh Avenue (Adopted on consent)
• Passed resolution to cease train whistles at Furness Street crossing (Unanimous)
• Approved Zoning Amendment Bylaws for 310 Blackley St and 1005 Ewen Ave (Unanimous)
• Adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw for 114-118 Sprice Street (Unanimous)
• Denied motion to request BC government halt drug decriminalization (Defeated)
• Authorized funding agreement with BC Alliance for Healthy Living Society (Unanimous)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

This is a pre-closed open meeting where the New Westminster City Council will immediately move to close the meeting to the public. The closure is based on two items: one related to the acquisition, disposition, or expropriation of land, and another involving confidential negotiations with provincial or federal governments. No public discussion or decisions are scheduled.

• Item 4.1: Closed under Section 90(1)(e) of the Community Charter for land acquisition, disposition, or expropriation
• Item 5.1: Closed under Section 90(2)(b) for confidential negotiations with provincial or federal governments

Utility Commission

The Utility Commission is meeting on May 22, 2024, but the substantive agenda items will be discussed in a closed session under Section 90 of the Community Charter, covering personal information about a municipal position, labour relations, and preliminary negotiations for a municipal service. The public portion includes only the call to order, agenda adoption, a motion to go into closed session, a public delegation period, and adjournment. No decisions or discussions on utility matters are scheduled for the open portion of the meeting.

• Motion to move into closed meeting under Section 90(1)(a), (c), and (k) of the Community Charter
• Public delegation opportunity from 4:00 PM to 4:15 PM
• Next scheduled meeting is June 18, 2024, at 2:00 PM

The Electric Utility Commission heard a presentation from the New Westminster Climate Action Hub regarding a distributed energy system to support building retrofits and electrification. The Commission directed staff to review the proposal for potential opportunities.

• Adopted meeting agenda (Unanimous)
• Approved motion to move into closed meeting (Unanimous)
• Directed staff to review New Westminster Climate Action Hub proposal for distributed energy system

Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss and receive updates on the draft Accessibility Plan, the Parks and Recreation Plan, and an upcoming tour of the təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre. The committee will also continue unfinished business on terminology, accessible parking spots policy, city communication with the disabled, and city event accessibility. No decisions are listed on the agenda; items are for information, discussion, and/or action.

• Draft Accessibility Plan update
• Parks and Recreation Plan presentation
• Upcoming tour of təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre
• Accessible Parking Spots Policy discussion
• City Event Accessibility discussion

The committee unanimously adopted the meeting agenda and reviewed updates to the Organization Accessibility Plan and the Parks and Recreation Plan. Members provided feedback on accessibility barriers in parks, events, and parking, and discussed terminology definitions from the Accessible British Columbia Act. No new policies were approved; the committee requested that parking-related Zoning Bylaw amendments be presented for future feedback.

• Agenda adopted unanimously
• Organization Accessibility Plan update scheduled for July meeting
• Parks and Recreation Plan feedback collected from committee members
• Tour of təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre scheduled for future date
• Terminology discussion on 'disability' and 'barrier' deferred to future meeting
• Request made for Zoning Bylaw parking amendments to be presented to committee

Advisory Planning Commission (APC)

The Advisory Planning Commission is meeting to review and vote on a motion of support or non-support for an Official Community Plan amendment, rezoning, and Development Variance Permit for 1135 Salter Street. The proposal includes 45 townhouse units in eight buildings, 91 parking spaces, and about 10% dedicated park space. The commission will also adopt minutes from the September 19, 2023 meeting.

• Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 8454, 2024
• Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8455, 2024
• 45 townhouse units, 8 buildings, floor space ratio 0.793
• 91 parking spaces, ~10% park space
• Development Variance Permit request

The Advisory Planning Commission unanimously supported an Official Community Plan amendment, rezoning, and Development Variance Permits for a project at 1135 Salter Street. The proposal includes 45 housing units and a developer-funded park space for the community.

• Supported OCP amendment, rezoning, and Development Variance Permits for 1135 Salter Street (Unanimous)
• Adopted May 21, 2024 Agenda (Unanimous)
• Adopted September 19, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Community Advisory Assembly

The Community Advisory Assembly is meeting to debrief its May 6, 2024 presentation to Council, recap and discuss the Road Reallocation Policy, and choose topics for the June assembly. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no specific decisions or dollar amounts listed. Upcoming meeting dates are provided through December 2024.

• Debrief on May 6, 2024 presentation to Council
• Recap and discussion of Road Reallocation Policy
• Selection of June assembly topics
• Review of assembly attendance recommendations
• Upcoming meetings: June 15, Sept 19, Oct 19, Nov 19, Dec 11, 2024

The Community Advisory Assembly decided to stop replacing members who resign and established a process to remove members who miss more than two meetings without communicating with staff. Members also brainstormed future agenda topics and provided feedback on road space reallocation.

• Approved proposal to no longer replace members who resign from the Assembly
• Approved proposal to remove members who miss more than two meetings without communicating with staff

Council Workshop

The Council is holding a workshop to review updates to the Parks & Recreation Plan. They are also reviewing a preliminary application for an affordable housing project at 529 Queens Avenue and considering a work plan for the Family Friendly Housing Policy update.

• Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan Update working session
• Preliminary Application Review: 529 Queens Avenue proposed affordable housing project
• Family Friendly Housing Policy Update Work Plan

Council provided input on the Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan and endorsed recommendations for an affordable housing project at 529 Queens Avenue. The council also directed staff to proceed with a work plan to update the Family Friendly Housing Policy.

• Approved framework and provided input for Parks & Recreation Plan update (Unanimous)
• Endorsed recommendations and staff feedback for 529 Queens Avenue affordable housing project (Unanimous)
• Directed staff to proceed with Family Friendly Housing Policy update work plan (Unanimous)
• Approved motion to enter closed meeting for labour relations (Unanimous)

Massey Theatre Working Group

The Massey Theatre Working Group is meeting to adopt the agenda and minutes from April 4, 2024, and to consider a motion to go into a closed meeting under Section 90(1)(c) of the Community Charter, which relates to labour or other employee relations. The agenda is largely procedural, with no public discussion items listed beyond the closed-meeting motion.

• Adoption of the May 13, 2024 agenda
• Adoption of the April 4, 2024 meeting minutes
• Motion to go into closed meeting citing Section 90(1)(c) labour relations

The Massey Theatre Working Group adopted its agenda and the minutes of its April 4, 2024 meeting, both unanimously. It then voted unanimously to go into a closed meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter, citing labour/employee relations and land acquisition, disposition or expropriation. The open portion recorded no new business, and the meeting was terminated at 7:19 p.m. No substantive decisions on theatre operations, funding, or programming were recorded in the public minutes.

• Adopted May 13, 2024 meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Adopted April 4, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Moved into closed session under Community Charter s.90(1)(c) and 90(1)(e) (unanimous)
• Terminated meeting at 7:19 p.m. (unanimous)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

This is a procedural agenda for a City Council meeting that will immediately move into a closed (private) session. The only substantive items are a motion to close the meeting to the public under Section 90 of the Community Charter, citing preliminary negotiations for a municipal service and confidential discussions with provincial/federal governments. No public decisions or discussions are scheduled.

• Motion to move into closed meeting under Section 90(1)(k) and 90(2)(b) of the Community Charter
• Closed session topics: preliminary negotiations for municipal service provision and confidential intergovernmental discussions

The City Council held a pre-closed regular meeting on May 6, 2024. The only substantive action taken in the open portion was a unanimous vote to move the meeting into a closed session, citing confidentiality requirements under the Community Charter. No other decisions, votes, or discussions were recorded in the open minutes.

• Approved motion to move meeting into closed session (unanimous)

Council Workshop

This is a Council Workshop with two substantive items. Council will receive a summary of community engagement for the Anvil Centre 10-year review and consider endorsing next steps, including a future workshop to develop recommendations. Council will also consider authorizing the Chief Administrative Officer to execute a renewed Memorandum of Understanding with Tourism New Westminster.

• Anvil Centre 10-year Review Engagement Summary Report received for information
• Endorsement of next steps for Anvil Centre review, including future Council workshop
• Authorization for CAO to execute renewed MOU with Tourism New Westminster
• MOU attachments include lease agreement and MRDT MOU

Council approved a Memorandum of Understanding with Tourism New Westminster. Regarding the Anvil Centre 10-year review, Council rejected funding for a public opinion poll but directed staff to draft recommendations for a future workshop.

• Authorized CAO to execute Memorandum of Understanding with Tourism New Westminster (Unanimous)
• Received Anvil Centre 10-year Review Engagement Summary Report for information (Unanimous)
• Denied funding of up to $10,000 for Anvil Centre public opinion poll (4-2)
• Approved direction for staff to draft Anvil Centre recommendations for a future workshop (4-2)

Council Meeting

New Westminster City Council is meeting to accept the 2023 consolidated financial statements, receive updates on train whistle cessation and Community Advisory Assembly recommendations, and adopt several bylaws including tax rates, zoning amendments, and a code of conduct change. The agenda also includes motions on transparency and drug decriminalization, plus a discussion on Canucks playoff viewing opportunities.

• Adoption of 2023 Financial Statements
• Tax Rates Bylaw 8445, 2024
• Zoning Amendment Bylaw (812 Twentieth Street) No. 8443, 2024 for retail liquor store
• Zoning Amendment (909-915 Twelfth Street) Bylaw No. 8400, 2023 for 40-unit residential development
• Construction noise exemption for sewer inspection at 220 Salter Street

Council adopted the 2024 Tax Rates Bylaw and a series of zoning, official community plan, and other bylaws, most unanimously. It accepted the 2023 financial statements after defeating a motion to defer them to May 27, 2024. Council also directed staff to respond to Community Advisory Assembly recommendations and to support Vancouver Canucks playoff viewing options, and it agreed to release in-camera resolutions once no longer confidential. A motion to recommend Councillor Daniel Fontaine as chair of the Arts, Culture and Economic Development Committee was defeated.

• Adopted Tax Rates Bylaw 8445, 2024 (unanimous)
• Adopted Code of Conduct for Council Members Amendment Bylaw No. 8457, 2024 (Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Adopted Riparian Areas Protection Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 8413, 2024 (unanimous)
• Adopted Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 8421, 2024 (unanimous)
• Adopted Municipal Ticket Information Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 8422, 2024 (unanimous)
• Adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw (812 Twentieth Street) No. 8443, 2024 (unanimous)
• Adopted Official Community Plan Amendment (909-915 Twelfth Street) Bylaw No. 8399, 2023; Zoning Amendment (909-915 Twelfth Street) Bylaw No. 8400, 2023; and Road Closure, Dedication Removal, and Disposition (909-915 Twelfth Street) Bylaw No. 8401, 2023 (all unanimous)
• Accepted 2023 financial statements; motion to defer to May 27, 2024 defeated (Johnstone, Campbell, Henderson, Nakagawa opposed)

Joint Schools and City Working Group

The Joint New Westminster Schools and City School Planning Working Group is meeting on April 24, 2024. The agenda is almost entirely procedural: it calls the meeting to order, adopts the agenda, and then immediately moves into a closed meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter to discuss land acquisition, preliminary municipal service negotiations, and confidential information. No public decisions or substantive items are listed.

• Meeting scheduled for Wednesday, April 24, 2024, 10:00–11:00 a.m. at Committee Room 2, City Hall
• Motion to move into closed meeting citing Section 90(1)(e), (k), (m), 90(2)(b), and 90(2)(d) of the Community Charter
• Closed session topics include acquisition/disposition of land, preliminary negotiations for municipal services, and confidential provincial/federal negotiations

Residents Association Forum

This is the annual Residents Association Forum with Council, featuring staff presentations on the new Community Services Department, the Parks and Recreation Plan update, and the Active Transportation Network Plan. Residents associations from across New Westminster will provide updates, followed by a roundtable discussion. No decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for information and discussion.

• Introduction to new Community Services Department (Economic Development, Arts, Grants, Public Engagement, etc.)
• Parks and Recreation Plan update: 10-year priorities and 2050 vision, with public input opportunities
• Active Transportation Network Plan review: Core Network build-out over 5 years, projects in next 2 years
• Updates from 12 residents associations (Queensborough, Downtown, Quayside, Sapperton, etc.)

The meeting consisted of staff presentations and updates from various residents' associations. No substantive motions were decided or voted upon during the forum.

Council Workshop

This Council Workshop agenda contains one substantive item: a presentation and report on a proposed Reporting Serious Misconduct Policy (whistle-blower policy). Council is asked to endorse the policy for implementation, which would bring the City into conformity with corporate governance and auditing standards. The rest of the agenda is procedural (call to order, agenda approval, adjournment).

• Presentation and report on Reporting Serious Misconduct Policy (Report 2024-218)
• Policy aims to facilitate disclosure of wrongdoing contrary to public interest
• Recommendation: Council endorse the policy for implementation

Council endorsed a Reporting Serious Misconduct Policy (a "whistle-blower" policy) for implementation at the City. Before final approval, council unanimously amended Section 3.3.3 so that allegations of serious misconduct involving the Chief Administrative Officer are dealt with in camera by council, which with the City Solicitor assigns an independent third-party investigator. A motion to refer the matter to the May 6, 2024 Regular Council meeting was defeated, with Mayor Johnstone and Councillors Campbell, Henderson and Nakagawa opposed. The amended main motion carried unanimously.

• Endorsed the Reporting Serious Misconduct Policy for implementation (unanimous)
• Amended Section 3.3.3 to have CAO misconduct allegations handled in camera by council with an independent third-party investigator (unanimous)
• Defeated motion to refer the policy to the May 6, 2024 Regular Council meeting (Mayor Johnstone and Councillors Campbell, Henderson, Nakagawa opposed)
• Adopted the April 8, 2024 Council Workshop agenda as circulated and received all On Table material (unanimous)

Council Meeting

New Westminster City Council is meeting to consider several bylaws and reports, including the 2024 tax rates, zoning amendments for 51 Elliot Street and 408 East Columbia Street, and a construction noise exemption for TransLink at Braid SkyTrain Station. The agenda also includes motions on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, tree sale expansion, and transparency of in-camera minutes.

• 2024 Tax Rates Bylaw No. 8445, 2024 for three readings
• Zoning Amendment and Housing Agreement (51 Elliot Street) for a 37-storey building with 287 units, 13 inclusionary rental units, and childcare
• Construction Noise Bylaw exemption for TransLink at 81 Braid Street from May 1, 2024 to August 31, 2025
• Zoning Bylaw Text Amendment for 408 East Columbia Street to permit a dental clinic
• Motion to explore public spaces for 2026 FIFA World Cup events

Council passed the 2024 Tax Rates Bylaw and approved zoning and housing agreements for a development at 51 Elliot Street, both with opposition from two councillors. A motion to support 2026 FIFA World Cup community events and a directive to assess funding for additional trees were passed unanimously. A proposed zoning amendment for 408 East Columbia Street was defeated.

• Approved 2024 Tax Rates Bylaw No. 8445 (4-2)
• Approved Zoning Amendment and Housing Agreement for 51 Elliot Street (4-2)
• Defeated Zoning Amendment for 408 East Columbia Street (0-6)
• Approved Code of Conduct Amendment Bylaw No. 8457 (4-2)
• Approved Riparian Areas Protection and ticket enforcement bylaw amendments (6-0)
• Directed staff to report on 2026 FIFA World Cup community activation opportunities (6-0)
• Directed staff to assess funding for up to 3,000 additional trees (6-0)
• Authorized agreement with United Way BC for senior isolation programs (6-0)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

This is a pre-closed council meeting where the only substantive action is a motion to move into a closed session. The closed session will address personal information about appointees, labour relations, solicitor-client privileged advice, preliminary municipal service negotiations, and the decision on closure itself. The open portion is purely procedural, with no public decisions or discussions.

• Motion to close meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter
• Closed items: personal info on appointees (90(1)(a))
• Closed items: labour relations (90(1)(c))
• Closed items: solicitor-client privilege (90(1)(i))
• Closed items: preliminary service negotiations (90(1)(k))

The meeting consisted of procedural actions to enter and exit a closed session. No substantive decisions were made during the open portion of the meeting.

• Approved motion to enter closed meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter (Unanimous)

Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel

The Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel is meeting to review and authenticate the 2024 Local Area Service Parcel Tax Roll, which allows the city to recover costs for works authorized under local area service bylaws. The panel will also hear any complaints from property owners. The main item is confirming the roll for the Uptown New Westminster Business Improvement Area Bylaw No. 8424, 2023.

• Confirm and authenticate Local Area Service Parcel Tax Roll for Uptown New Westminster Business Improvement Area Bylaw No. 8424, 2023
• Review of complaints received from property owners
• Motion to identify, confirm and authenticate the 2024 Parcel Tax Roll
• Signing of the parcel tax roll certificate

The Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel met on April 22, 2024 and unanimously approved a motion to review, identify, confirm and authenticate the parcel tax roll prepared for Uptown New Westminster Business Improvement Area Bylaw No. 8424, 2023. No speakers came forward during three calls for public input. The meeting ran from 6:00 p.m. to 6:06 p.m.

• Approved (unanimous) confirming and authenticating the Uptown New Westminster Business Improvement Area parcel tax roll under Bylaw No. 8424, 2023

Community Advisory Assembly

This agenda for the New Westminster Community Advisory Assembly meeting on April 20, 2024, contains only procedural boilerplate and no listed agenda items, decisions, or discussions. The document appears to be a system-generated placeholder with no substantive content.

The Community Advisory Assembly voted on 12 recommendations regarding community belonging, housing, and public spaces. Eleven recommendations received sufficient support to be presented to City Council, while one on tenant protection required a re-vote after falling short of consensus. The Assembly also discussed the Active Transportation Network Plan but deferred further recommendations on this topic to the next meeting.

• Approved recommendation to revitalize year-round festivals (29-0)
• Approved recommendation to prioritize diverse housing types in zoning (28-1)
• Approved recommendation for developers to prioritize community gathering spaces (29-0)
• Approved amended recommendation to consider tenant protection policy models (29-0)
• Approved revised recommendation on tenant protection policies after re-vote (22-7)
• Approved recommendation for access to free or low-cost indoor spaces (29-0)
• Approved amended recommendation to maintain print and online City information (29-0)
• Approved revised recommendation to send welcome packages to new residents (24-5)

Advisory Planning Commission (APC)

The Advisory Planning Commission is meeting to review a proposal at 805 Boyd Street and will provide a motion of support or non-support for the Official Community Plan Amendment and Rezoning applications. The urban design aspects have already been reviewed by the New Westminster Design Panel. The rest of the agenda is procedural, covering call to order, agenda changes, new business, and upcoming meeting dates.

• 805 Boyd Street OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 8448, 2024
• 805 Boyd Street Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8449, 2024
• Commission motion of support or non-support for the applications
• Applicant-led public consultation summary report included

The Advisory Planning Commission unanimously supported an application to amend the Official Community Plan and rezone 805 Boyd Street. The proposal involves subdividing a parcel for a SmartStop storage facility, which requires eleven replacement trees and reconfigured parking. Staff noted that mini-storage uses are currently undesirable in the site's existing commercial zoning.

• Supported OCP amendment and rezoning at 805 Boyd Street (unanimous)

Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee is meeting to hear staff reports and presentations on several topics, including an economic development plan update, sidewalk patios and street activations, a 10-year review of the Anvil Centre, city grants, a business bylaw update, business education nights, and a public art update. The committee will also adopt minutes from its February 8, 2024 meeting and may add new business items.

• Economic Development Plan Update (5 min)
• Sidewalk Patios and Street Activations (20 min)
• Anvil Centre 10 Year Review (40 min)
• City Grants (15 min)
• Business Bylaw Update (10 min)

The committee unanimously adopted the minutes from February 8, 2024. Members received updates on the Economic Development Plan, sidewalk patios, and the Anvil Centre 10-year review. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted February 8, 2024 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

This is a procedural agenda for a City Council meeting that will immediately move into a closed session. The closed portion covers personal information about a position holder or candidate, labour relations, solicitor-client advice, and confidential negotiations with other governments. The open meeting will only reconvene to formally end the session.

• Motion to close meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter
• Closed items: personal info (90(1)(a)), labour relations (90(1)(c)), legal advice (90(1)(i)), closed-meeting consideration (90(1)(n)), intergovernmental negotiations (90(2)(b))

Council voted unanimously to move into a closed meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter, citing personal information, labour relations, solicitor-client privilege, and confidential government negotiations. The closed session ran from 1:00 p.m. to 8:40 p.m. When council reconvened in open session at 8:40 p.m., Mayor Johnstone immediately terminated the meeting. No substantive decisions were recorded in the public minutes.

• Approved moving into closed session under Community Charter Section 90 (unanimous)
• Reconvened open meeting at 8:40 p.m.
• Meeting terminated at 8:40 p.m. with no public business conducted

Council Meeting

This Council meeting covers a consent agenda with multiple items including filming policy updates, a lease for active rehabilitation services, appointment of a Corporate Officer, property tax relief analysis, construction noise exemptions, and a zoning bylaw for a retail liquor store. Council will also consider adopting several bylaws, including one for a 6-storey building with 99 rental units, and discuss motions on ground-level retail, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and tree sale expansion. A significant item is the ON TABLE resolution for the 88 Tenth Street (Columbia Square) development proposal, directing staff to revise the proposal to include 20% secured market rental and a child care.

• Lease agreement with MacPherson and Zenone Physiotherapist Corporation for space at təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre, 65 E Sixth Ave
• Construction noise bylaw exemptions: BEL Contracting at 78 Jamieson Court (June 10-Aug 30) and Two Pillars Construction at 230 Keary Street (April 13-14)
• Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8443 for retail liquor store at 812 Twentieth Street for three readings
• Adoption of bylaws for 145-209 East Columbia Street (6-storey, 99 rental units) and 1032/1036 St. Andrews Street (12 townhouses)
• ON TABLE resolution for 88 Tenth Street (Columbia Square) to revise proposal with 20% secured market rental and child care

Council approved a revised proposal for the Columbia Square site to include 20% secured market rental and not-for-profit child care. Several zoning amendments were adopted, and noise bylaw exemptions were granted for infrastructure and construction projects.

• Directed staff to revise 88 Tenth Street proposal for 20% secured market rental and not-for-profit child care (Carried)
• Approved Zoning Amendment Bylaws for 145-209 East Columbia Street, 1032-1036 St. Andrews Street, and Miscellaneous Amendments (Unanimous)
• Granted noise bylaw exemption for Metro Vancouver Glenbrook CSO Gate Replacement from June 10 to August 30, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Granted noise bylaw exemption for 230 Keary Street crane erection for April 13-14 or May 11-12, 2024 (Consent)
• Approved Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 8443 for 812 Twentieth Street through three readings (Unanimous)
• Appointed Hanieh Berg as Corporate Officer effective April 22, 2024 (Consent)
• Authorized lease agreement with MacPherson and Zenone Physiotherapist Corporation at təməsew̓txʷ Centre (Unanimous)
• Resolved to review policies to prioritize community-supporting businesses in new ground level retail (Carried)

Council Workshop

This is a Council Workshop with a single substantive item: a project update on the təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre (TACC), covering completion timelines, facility operations, programming, and the opening schedule. Council is asked to receive the report for information only; no decisions are being made at this meeting.

• Project update on təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre (TACC)
• Details on project completion timelines and opening plans
• Temporary TACC site access attachment
• Presentation on TACC project update

New Westminster City Council held a workshop on April 8, 2024. Council adopted the agenda and received a presentation on the təməsew̓ txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre (TACC), covering project completion, facility operations and programming, and the opening schedule of events. Council unanimously received the report for information. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting ended at 4:46 p.m.

• Adopted the April 8, 2024 Council Workshop agenda (unanimous)
• Received report on TACC project completion timelines and opening plans (unanimous)

Massey Theatre Working Group

The Massey Theatre Working Group is meeting to adopt its agenda and the minutes from March 6, 2024. The main item is a motion to go into a closed meeting under Section 90(1)(c) of the Community Charter, citing labour or other employee relations. No other substantive business is listed.

• Motion to adopt April 4, 2024 agenda
• Motion to adopt March 6, 2024 minutes
• Motion to enter closed meeting under Section 90(1)(c) for labour relations

The working group adopted the meeting agenda and the minutes from March 6, 2024. The group spent the majority of the meeting in a closed session regarding labour or employee relations. No substantive decisions were recorded in the open session.

• Adopted April 4, 2024 meeting agenda (Unanimous)
• Adopted March 6, 2024 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved motion to enter closed session under Section 90(1)(c) of the Community Charter (Unanimous)

Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting to review a draft Accessibility Plan, receive an orientation, and elect an alternate chair. The agenda also includes adopting minutes from the January 24, 2024 meeting and discussing terminology. No decisions are listed beyond these items.

• Review of CNW Draft Accessibility Plan 2024
• Committee orientation presentation and affirmation of office
• Election of alternate chair
• Adoption of minutes from January 24, 2024 meeting
• Discussion of terminology

The committee unanimously endorsed the draft Accessibility Plan in principle, pending the incorporation of committee feedback and input from the Senior Management Team. The committee also elected an Alternate Chair for the 2024 year.

• Endorsed draft Accessibility Plan in principle (Unanimous)
• Elected Julie Drew as Alternate Chair for 2024 (Unanimous)
• Adopted amended March 27, 2024 agenda (Unanimous)
• Adopted amended January 24, 2024 minutes (Unanimous)

New Westminster Design Panel

The New Westminster Design Panel will review a rezoning and special development permit application for a 44-storey mixed-use building at 811 Carnarvon Street. The proposal includes 469 residential units, retail, a 145-room hotel, and a public dog parklet. The panel will provide design comments and may vote to support or request revisions.

• 44-storey mixed-use building at 811 Carnarvon St
• 469 stratified residential units
• 145-room hotel and at-grade retail
• 160 sq. metre public dog parklet
• Adoption of minutes from Jan 23 and Feb 27, 2024 meetings

The New Westminster Design Panel unanimously supported the rezoning and special development permit proposal for a 44-storey mixed-use building at 811 Carnarvon Street, subject to the Panel's comments. The Panel also elected Christina Chow as Chair and adopted minutes from its January 23, 2023 and February 27, 2024 meetings. No other new business was considered.

• Elected Christina Chow as Chair of the March 26, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes of the January 23, 2023 meeting (unanimous)
• Adopted minutes of the February 27, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Supported the 811 Carnarvon Street project with consideration of the Panel's comments (unanimous)

Council Workshop

Council will consider three reports for action: signing a shared cost arrangement to deliver the BC Electricity Affordability Credit to residential and commercial customers, and approving two exemptions to competitive purchasing to award sole-source contracts for emergency culvert work on Stanley Street and replacement of the City's data backup platform. The meeting will then move into a closed session for items related to solicitor-client privilege and preliminary municipal service negotiations.

• BC Electricity Affordability Credit: Council to authorize signing a Shared Cost Arrangement with the Province to pass the credit to all residential and commercial customers
• Stanley Street emergency culvert and pavement removal: sole-source contract to Sandpiper Contracting to address failing culvert and sinkholes
• Data and system backup platform replacement: sole-source contract to Mobia Technology Innovations
• Closed meeting under Section 90(1)(i) and (k) of the Community Charter

Council authorized the administration of the BC Electricity Affordability Credit for residential and commercial customers. Additionally, two exemptions to competitive procurement were approved to award sole-sourced contracts for emergency infrastructure and IT services.

• Approved Shared Cost Arrangement to provide BC Electricity Affordability Credit (Unanimous)
• Approved competitive purchasing exemption for Stanley Street emergency culvert and pavement removal contract to Sandpiper Contracting (Unanimous)
• Approved competitive purchasing exemption for data and system backup platform replacement contract to Mobia Technology Innovations (Unanimous)

Community Advisory Assembly

This meeting agenda for the New Westminster Community Advisory Assembly contains only procedural boilerplate and no substantive agenda items. The document is essentially empty of decisions or discussion topics, consisting only of interface text from the eSCRIBE software.

The Community Advisory Assembly met on March 13, 2024 and agreed by a show of hands to add a fourth breakout theme, Protecting Renter Communities, alongside Animating Public Spaces, Strengthening Third Places and Facilities, and Expanding Outreach and Communication. Each of the four groups drafted roughly three recommendations, which members expressed support for; consent on the recommendations is to be tested at the start of the next meeting. A vote saw almost all members support presenting the recommendations to Council at an evening Council meeting rather than a lower-profile Monday workshop. No recommendations were formally adopted by the Assembly, and no Council decisions were made at this meeting.

• Agreed by show of hands (majority) to add 'Protecting Renter Communities' as a fourth breakout theme for the evening
• Received draft recommendations from Animating Public Spaces group (4 recommendations); members expressed support
• Received draft recommendations from Strengthening Third Places and Facilities group (2 recommendations); members expressed support
• Received draft recommendations from Expanding Outreach and Communication group (3 recommendations); members expressed support
• Received draft recommendations from Protecting Renter Communities group (2 recommendations); members expressed support
• Voted (almost all members) to present recommendations to Council at an evening Council meeting rather than a Council workshop
• Deferred formal consent on all recommendations to the beginning of the next meeting

Council Workshop

This Council Workshop is a single-item meeting where Council will receive a presentation and report on the proposed Engagement Strategy for updating the City's Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan. Council is being asked to provide feedback on the strategy and to allow staff to proceed with next steps as outlined in the report. No decisions are being made; the meeting is for discussion and feedback only.

• Presentation and report on Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan Update - Engagement Strategy Phase 1
• Council to provide feedback on proposed Engagement Strategy
• Staff to proceed with next steps as outlined in report

Council approved the Phase 1 Engagement Strategy to update the Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan and directed staff to proceed with the next steps. A proposed amendment to provide updates on specific progress from the 2008 plan was defeated.

• Approved Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan Engagement Strategy (Unanimous)
• Directed staff to proceed with next steps for Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan (Unanimous)
• Denied amendment to provide updates on table 7-16 from the 2008 PRCP process

Council Meeting

Council will consider adopting the Five-Year Financial Plan (2024-2028) and an amendment to Development Cost Charges with inflationary adjustments. It will also vote on several construction noise bylaw exemptions for TransLink and Metro Vancouver, and discuss motions on childcare zoning, election financing reform, and an electric kick scooter pilot. The agenda includes consent items, proclamations, and public speaking time.

• Adoption of Five-Year Financial Plan (2024-2028) Bylaw No. 8442, 2024
• Adoption of Development Cost Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 8444, 2024 (inflationary adjustments)
• Construction noise exemption for TransLink at 32 Eighth Street and 2126 Seventh Avenue (SkyTrain stations), March 12–August 1, 2024, 12 AM–7 AM
• Construction noise exemption for TransLink to recoat 22nd Street SkyTrain Station, March 11–December 23, 2024, 8 PM–7 AM six days/week
• Construction noise exemption for Metro Vancouver valve replacement at 660 East Columbia Street, March 16–24, 2024 (weekend evenings)

Council approved the 2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan and an amendment to Development Cost Charges. Members also directed staff to explore increasing childcare spaces in residential areas and evaluating a provincial e-scooter pilot program.

• Adopted Five-Year Financial Plan (2024-2028) Bylaw No. 8442, 2024 (Carried; Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Adopted Development Cost Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 8444, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved staff exploration of zoning amendments to increase maximum childcare spaces in residential areas (Unanimous)
• Directed staff to evaluate joining the Provincial Electric Kick Scooter Pilot Program (Unanimous)
• Denied motion to request changes to the Local Elections Campaign Financing Act (Defeated; Johnstone, Campbell, Henderson, and Nakagawa opposed)
• Granted noise bylaw exemptions to TransLink for SkyTrain station work (Adopted on consent)
• Granted noise bylaw exemption to Metro Vancouver for valve replacements at 660 East Columbia Street (Adopted on consent)
• Approved report on Fraser Health Authority Second Responder Program (Adopted on consent)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

This is a procedural agenda for a City Council meeting that will immediately move into a closed (private) session. The closed session is authorized under Section 90 of the Community Charter to discuss personal information, labour relations, land acquisition or disposition, and confidential negotiations with senior governments. The open portion of the meeting will only reconvene to end the meeting.

• Motion to move into closed meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter
• Closed items may include personal information about a position holder (90(1)(a))
• Closed items may include labour relations (90(1)(c))
• Closed items may include land acquisition or disposition (90(1)(e))
• Closed items may include confidential negotiations with provincial/federal governments (90(2)(b))

Council convened at 1:00 p.m. on March 11, 2024, and voted unanimously to move into a closed meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter to discuss personal information, labour relations, land matters, meeting closure considerations, and confidential government negotiations. Council reconvened in open session at 2:45 p.m. and the meeting was terminated at 2:45 p.m. No substantive decisions were made in open session.

• Approved moving into closed meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter (unanimous)
• Reconvened open meeting at 2:45 p.m.
• Meeting terminated at 2:45 p.m.

Massey Theatre Working Group

The Massey Theatre Working Group will receive a report on 2023 annual maintenance and utility costs for the theatre, presented by Tobi May, Senior Manager of Civic Buildings and Properties. The group will also adopt the agenda and previous minutes, then move into a closed meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter to discuss labour relations or other employee relations matters. The meeting concludes with scheduling and new business.

• Report on annual maintenance and utility costs for 2023 (presented by Tobi May)
• Adoption of minutes from December 5, 2023
• Motion to go into closed meeting under Section 90(1)(c) for labour relations
• Discussion of meeting schedule for the Working Group

The Massey Theatre Working Group unanimously adopted its agenda and minutes, and received a report on 2023 maintenance and utility costs for information. The group discussed future cost-sharing for utilities and maintenance responsibilities but did not make a final decision on these financial terms. They also agreed to a schedule of meetings every four weeks leading up to a joint leadership session in fall 2024.

• Agenda adopted unanimously
• Minutes from December 5, 2023, adopted unanimously
• 2023 Operating Memo received for information (unanimous)
• Closed session held regarding labour relations (unanimous)
• Meeting schedule set for April, May, and June 2024

Council Workshop

This is a Council Workshop where Council will hear a presentation on a proposed Climate Action Decision Making Framework and consider endorsing it for use in the 2024 quarterly variance and 2025 capital budget process. Council will also consider authorizing staff to apply for a grant under the Local Government Development Approvals Program. The meeting will then move to a closed session for items related to land, legal, and confidential negotiations.

• Endorse Climate Action Decision Making Framework for 2024 quarterly variance and 2025 capital budget
• Authorize staff to apply for Local Government Development Approvals Program grant
• Move to closed meeting for land, legal, and confidential negotiation matters

Council approved the use of a new Climate Action Decision Making Framework to prioritize funding for climate initiatives in the 2024 quarterly variance and 2025 capital budget. Council also directed staff to apply for a grant under the Local Government Development Approvals Program.

• Endorsed Climate Action Decision Making Framework for immediate use (Unanimous)
• Directed staff to submit application for Local Government Development Approvals Program grant (Unanimous)

New Westminster Design Panel

This is the first meeting of the New Westminster Design Panel in 2024, focused on orientation and administrative setup. Members will receive presentations on legislative services and planning, and will elect a chair and alternate chair. No project-specific design reviews are on the agenda.

• Election of Chair and Alternate Chair
• Legislative Services Orientation Presentation
• Planning Orientation Presentation

The New Westminster Design Panel held an orientation meeting to review committee roles and city planning policies. The panel elected its leadership for the 2024 term.

• Appointed Andrei Fillip as Chair for the 2024 term (unanimous)
• Appointed Eric Cheung as Alternate Chair for the 2024 term (unanimous)

Council Workshop

This is a Council Workshop meeting, not a regular decision-making meeting. The sole substantive item is a presentation and report on the City's first Facilities Asset Management Plan (FAMP), with a recommendation that Council endorse it. The rest of the agenda is procedural (call to order, land acknowledgement, approval of agenda, end of meeting).

• Presentation and report on the Facilities Asset Management Plan (FAMP) 2024
• Recommendation that Council endorse the City's first Facilities Asset Management Plan

City Council met for a workshop and unanimously endorsed the City's first Facilities Asset Management Plan. The council also adopted the meeting agenda.

• Endorsed the City’s first Facilities Asset Management Plan (Unanimous)
• Adopted the February 26, 2024, Council workshop agenda (Unanimous)

Public Hearing

New Westminster City Council is holding a public hearing to consider two bylaws for 203 Pembina Street in Queensborough: a Heritage Revitalization Agreement and a Heritage Designation. The proposal would allow six new stratified townhouse units with zoning relaxations, while legally protecting a specimen northern red oak tree. The hearing is the final opportunity for public input before Council decides on the bylaws.

• Heritage Revitalization Agreement Bylaw No. 8425, 2024 for 203 Pembina Street
• Heritage Designation Bylaw No. 8435, 2024 to protect the northern red oak tree
• Six new family-friendly, stratified townhouse units proposed fronting Pembina Street
• Zoning relaxations required for townhouse form, density, height, siting, parking, and access
• Public input accepted until 5:00 p.m. on February 21, 2024

Council held a public hearing regarding a proposed six-unit housing development at 203 Pembina Street. The proposal included heritage bylaws to preserve a specimen-sized oak tree on the property. Council decided to refer both bylaws to the Regular Council meeting for further consideration.

• Received written submissions regarding Bylaws No. 8425 and 8435 (Unanimous)
• Closed the Public Hearing for Bylaws No. 8425 and 8435 (Unanimous)
• Referred Heritage Revitalization Agreement Bylaw No. 8425, 2024 to Regular Council meeting (Unanimous)
• Referred Heritage Designation Bylaw No. 8435, 2024 to Regular Council meeting (Unanimous)

Council Meeting following Public Hearing

This Council meeting follows a public hearing and includes decisions on several bylaws, including the 2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan, a rezoning and housing agreement for 145-209 East Columbia Street to create 99 market rental units, and an inflationary increase to Development Cost Charges. Council will also consider a consent agenda covering items like a tree maintenance agreement, grant program refinements, a logo update, and a medical leave for a councillor, plus several motions to forward to the LMLGA.

• Three readings of Five-Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 8442, 2024 (2024-2028)
• Rezoning and Housing Agreement for 145-209 East Columbia Street: 6-storey building with 99 market rental units
• Development Cost Charges increase by 4.3% (Bylaw No. 8437, 2024)
• Adoption of bylaws for 810 Agnes Street: 33-storey tower with 352 rental units
• Heritage bylaws for 203 Pembina Street: six townhouses and protected red oak tree

Council passed the 2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan Bylaw and several zoning and housing agreements. The body also approved a medical leave of absence for Councillor McEvoy and passed several resolutions to be forwarded to the Lower Mainland Local Government Association.

• Approved 2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 8442, 2024 (Carried; Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Approved Zoning Amendment Bylaw (145-209 East Columbia Street) No. 8429, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved Housing Agreement Bylaw (145-209 East Columbia Street) No. 8434, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved medical leave of absence for Councillor McEvoy (Unanimous)
• Approved Heritage Revitalization Agreement Bylaw (203 Pembina Street) No. 8425, 2024 first reading (Carried; Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Approved Heritage Designation Bylaw (203 Pembina Street) No. 8435, 2024 third reading (Carried; Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Approved discontinuation of one-time small grants program and re-allocation of $13,000 (Unanimous)
• Authorized Director of Parks and Recreation to execute Letter of Understanding with Dockside Strata (Carried; Nakagawa opposed)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

This is a brief pre-closed meeting where Council will consider appointing Dennis Back as Interim Corporate Officer. After that, Council will move into a closed meeting to discuss items related to labour relations, land acquisition, legal advice, and other confidential matters, then reconvene and end the meeting.

• Appointment of Dennis Back as Interim Corporate Officer until a permanent hire is made
• Motion to close the meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter for labour relations, land acquisition, legal advice, and confidential negotiations

Council unanimously designated Dennis Back as Interim Corporate Officer until a permanent full-time Corporate Officer is hired. Council then voted unanimously to move into a closed meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter, citing labour relations, land matters, solicitor-client privilege, and confidential negotiations. Council entered the closed session at 1:04 p.m. and returned to the open meeting at 10:22 p.m., when the meeting was terminated. No other substantive decisions were recorded in the open minutes.

• Designated Dennis Back as Interim Corporate Officer until a permanent full-time Corporate Officer is hired (unanimous)
• Moved into a closed meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter (unanimous)
• Returned to the open meeting at 10:22 p.m. and terminated the meeting

Community Advisory Assembly

This agenda for the New Westminster Community Advisory Assembly meeting on 2024-02-24 contains only procedural boilerplate and no substantive items. No decisions, proposals, or discussions are listed in the provided text.

The Community Advisory Assembly unanimously adopted its Draft Terms of Reference. Members also agreed to a set of Group Agreements after discussion, with all raising their hands to indicate comfort. The rest of the meeting was a facilitated group dialogue on belonging and connection, where members shared personal stories; no recommendations or decisions were made on that topic. The meeting ended at 1:00 p.m.

• Adopted Draft Terms of Reference for the Assembly (unanimous)
• Agreed to Group Agreements on how members work together (all members raised hands in support)

Advisory Planning Commission (APC)

This is a procedural orientation meeting for the Advisory Planning Commission. Members will receive orientation packages, hear presentations from Legislative Services and Climate Action/Planning staff, and elect a Chair and Alternate Chair. No substantive decisions or public hearings are on the agenda.

• Election of Chair
• Election of Alternate Chair
• Legislative Services orientation presentation
• Climate Action, Planning and Development orientation

The commission held orientation sessions on legislative services and planning policy. Members elected the Chair and Alternate Chair for the 2024 term.

• Appointed Andrew Hull as Chair (unanimous)
• Appointed Quentin Van Der Merwe as Alternate Chair (unanimous)

Utility Commission

The Utility Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially act on a climate action decision-making framework, receive correspondence about BC Hydro's new rate and provincial electricity actions, and adopt previous meeting minutes. The meeting will close to the public for matters involving personal information, labour relations, and preliminary service negotiations.

• Climate Action Decision Making Framework: Introduction and Implementation Plan
• BC Hydro - Transition Options - RS 1830 rate
• Premier announces new actions to build electricity system, create jobs
• Electric Sales & Purchases Report
• Adoption of minutes from October 24, 2023

The Utility Commission approved a new framework to quantify climate action perspectives when allocating funds from the Climate Action Reserve Fund. The framework will be presented for endorsement at the Council Workshop on March 4, 2024.

• Endorsed the proposed Climate Action Decision Making Framework (Unanimous)
• Adopted minutes from October 24, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Received BC Hydro transition options for RS 1830 for information (Unanimous)
• Received Premier Eby's media release on electricity system expansion for information (Unanimous)
• Received 2023 summary of electrical energy purchases and sales for information (Adopted on consent)

Special Council Meeting

This is a special council meeting with a single substantive item: a motion to close the meeting to the public under Section 90 of the Community Charter. The closed session will address preliminary negotiations for a proposed municipal service and confidential information related to negotiations with senior governments. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no open public decisions or discussions scheduled.

• Motion to close meeting under Section 90(1)(k) for preliminary municipal service negotiations
• Closed session under Section 90(1)(m) for matters excluded from public by another enactment
• Closed session under Section 90(2)(b) for confidential negotiations with provincial or federal governments

The meeting was procedural. Council voted unanimously to move into a closed session to discuss municipal service negotiations and government relations before adjourning.

• Approved motion to move meeting into closed session (Unanimous)

Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee

The Arts, Culture and Economic Development Advisory Committee is meeting to orient new members, elect an alternate chair, and review its proposed 2024 workplan. The agenda is largely procedural, with no substantive decisions or public hearings listed.

• Election of alternate chair
• Review of 2024 workplan memo and presentation
• Orientation and affirmation of office for committee members
• Scheduled 2024 meetings: April 11, June 20, August 8, October 10, December 12

The committee met for orientation and to review proposed 2024 work plans for several city divisions. The provided document is an agenda and supporting materials; it does not record final decisions or vote tallies.

Community Heritage Commission (CHC)

The Community Heritage Commission is meeting for an orientation session, including presentations on commission roles, heritage terms, and museums and heritage services. No decisions or public hearings are scheduled; the agenda is largely procedural and informational.

• Orientation presentation for commission members
• Review of heritage terms glossary
• Museums and Heritage Services orientation presentation
• No adoption of minutes from previous meetings

The meeting consisted of orientation presentations for commission members. No substantive decisions were made.

Council Meeting

Council is considering the draft 2024-2028 Five Year Financial Plan, including a $180.4M multi-year capital budget, and directing staff to turn it into a bylaw. The consent agenda also includes several bylaws and exemptions, including a $3.2M expenditure from Development Cost Charge reserves and two construction noise exemptions. Council will also discuss motions on tax limits, resident association funding, and several resolutions to forward to the Lower Mainland Local Government Association.

• $180.4M 2024 Multi-Year Capital Budget approval
• $3,197,793 Development Cost Charge Reserve Funds Expenditure Bylaw No. 8437, 2024
• Heritage Revitalization Agreement and Heritage Designation bylaws for 203 Pembina Street (six townhouse units, heritage tree protection)
• Construction noise exemptions for Bosa Development at 660 Quayside Drive and Metro Vancouver at 660 East Columbia Street
• Motions on Port Coquitlam tax best practices, resident association funding, commercial rent control, overdose prevention sites, home care, Ministry of Hospitality, and E-Comm governance review

New Westminster City Council approved a $180.4M 2024 Multi-Year Capital Budget and directed staff to convert the Draft 2024–2028 Five-Year Financial Plan into a bylaw for three readings, with Councillors Fontaine and Minhas opposed. Council also gave three readings to a bylaw authorizing $3.20M in Development Cost Charge reserve spending, advanced heritage bylaws for 203 Pembina Street, and granted construction noise exemptions for work at 660 Quayside Drive and 660 East Columbia Street. A motion to have the Mayor request a meeting with Port Coquitlam officials about limiting property tax increases was defeated. A motion to increase resident association funding by up to $200 was partly approved, but a referral to staff and a further $200 top-up for associations with over 150 members were defeated. The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m. after a disruption in Council Chamber during the public delegation period.

• Approved $180.4M 2024 Multi-Year Capital Budget (carried; Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Directed staff to convert Draft 2024–2028 Five-Year Financial Plan into a bylaw for three readings (carried; Fontaine and Minhas opposed)
• Gave three readings to Development Cost Charge Reserve Funds Expenditure Bylaw No. 8437, 2024 authorizing $3.20M from DCC Reserves (unanimous)
• Granted Bosa Development a construction noise exemption at 660 Quayside Drive for crane removal on March 2 and 9, 2024, 7:00–9:00 AM (unanimous)
• Granted Metro Vancouver a construction noise exemption at 660 East Columbia Street for valve replacement work on Feb 24–25 and Mar 2–3, 2024 (adopted on consent)
• Advanced Heritage Revitalization Agreement Bylaw No. 8425 and Heritage Designation Bylaw No. 8435 for 203 Pembina Street to first and second readings and public hearing (unanimous)
• Defeated motion to have the Mayor request a meeting with Port Coquitlam officials on limiting property tax increases (Johnstone, Campbell, Henderson, Nakagawa opposed)
• Approved increasing the annual resident association budget by up to an additional $200 in the 2024 operational budget (carried; Mayor Johnstone opposed)

Council Workshop

The City Council is reviewing a proposed policy regarding unit additions in existing rental buildings. The meeting aims to seek Council endorsement for a formal review process for these additions.

• Proposed Policy for the Review of New Unit Additions in Existing Rental Buildings

New Westminster City Council held a workshop on February 5, 2024, to review proposed policies. The primary decision was the unanimous endorsement of a new policy governing the addition of units to existing rental buildings. This policy aims to streamline development reviews by including pre-permit inspections, housing agreements, livability reviews, and tree reviews.

• Agenda changes received unanimously
• Policy for Review of New Unit Additions in Existing Rental Buildings endorsed unanimously

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

This meeting is a procedural session to transition from an open meeting to a closed meeting. Council will discuss matters protected under Section 90 of the Community Charter.

• Motion to move into a closed meeting regarding personal information, labour relations, land acquisition, and solicitor-client privilege

Council voted unanimously to move into a closed meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter, citing reasons including personal information, labour relations, land acquisition, solicitor-client privilege, and confidential negotiations. The closed session ran from 1:02 p.m. to 3:05 p.m. The minutes record no substantive decisions made in open session; the meeting was then terminated.

• Approved moving into closed session under Section 90 (unanimous)
• Meeting terminated at 3:05 p.m.

Council Workshop

This is a Council Workshop where members will receive information on changes to provincial housing legislation and consider endorsing an interim development review framework and next steps. The agenda contains one substantive item: a presentation and report on the new housing legislation, with recommendations for Council feedback and endorsement. No other business is listed.

• Report on New Provincial Housing Legislation: Implications and Timelines
• Endorsement of Interim Development Review Framework (Attachment 4)
• Endorsement of Next Steps outlined in the report
• Attachments include Homes for People Action Plan Summary and Implementation Timeline

Council unanimously approved the next steps and an interim development framework to implement new provincial housing legislation. The plan addresses transit-oriented areas, small-scale multi-unit housing, and updated financing for growth.

• Endorsed next steps for implementing provincial housing legislation (Unanimous)
• Endorsed the Interim Development Framework (Unanimous)
• Provided feedback on the proposed approach to implementing provincial legislation (Unanimous)

Community Advisory Assembly

This agenda contains only boilerplate and no substantive items. The meeting appears to be a routine assembly with no specific decisions or discussions listed.

The Community Advisory Assembly met for the first time on January 25, 2024, for orientation and planning. Members received presentations on what the City does and on the Respectful Workplace Policy and social media responsibilities, and took part in group activities. No motions, votes, or substantive decisions were recorded; members were asked to email feedback on the Terms of Reference, and discussion of group norms was deferred to the next meeting. The next meeting is set for February 24, 2024, in Queensborough on the topic of Community Belonging and Connecting.

Accessibility Advisory Committee

The Accessibility Advisory Committee is meeting to adopt minutes from previous sessions and receive a presentation on the Draft Accessibility Plan from staff. The agenda is largely procedural, with the draft plan as the main substantive item for discussion.

• Draft Accessibility Plan presentation by Karin Pasqua, Universal Design & Accessibility
• Adoption of minutes from September 27, October 25, and November 22, 2023 meetings

The Committee discussed priorities for the City's draft accessibility plan, including universal design and the recognition of invisible disabilities. No formal motions were passed regarding the plan or new business, though previous meeting minutes were adopted.

• Adopted September 27, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted October 25, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted November 22, 2023 notes with amendment to remove a statement regarding agreement on a police grant application (unanimous)

New Westminster Design Panel

The New Westminster Design Panel will review a proposed three-storey addition to Queen Elizabeth Elementary School at 921 Salter Street, including variances for building height and parking. The panel will provide comments on the design for applicant and staff consideration. The meeting also includes adoption of minutes from September 26, 2023, and routine procedural items.

• Design review of 921 Salter Street school addition (approx. 2,926 sq. m. / 31,495 sq. ft.)
• Proposal replaces 10 portables with new three-storey addition
• 65 off-street parking stalls, 10 long-term and 88 short-term bicycle spaces proposed
• Variances sought for building height and minor vehicle/bicycle parking requirements
• Adoption of minutes from September 26, 2023

The New Westminster Design Panel adopted its September 26, 2023 minutes and reviewed the proposed new elementary school addition at 921 Salter Street (Queen Elizabeth Elementary School). The Panel voted to support the project with consideration of its comments, with all Panelists present voting in favour. The Panel raised concerns about drop-off and pick-up traffic, entrances, landscaping, lighting, and connections between old and new buildings. Staff advised the project is on a tight funding deadline and is not scheduled to return to the Panel for further review.

• Adopted minutes of the September 26, 2023 Design Panel meeting (all members present in favour)
• Supported the 921 Salter Street (Queen Elizabeth Elementary School) addition with consideration of the Panel's comments (all Panelists present in favour)

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

This is a pre-closed meeting where Council will vote to move into a closed session. The closed session will discuss land acquisition/disposition, annual report preparations, and confidential negotiations with provincial/federal governments. No public business will be conducted.

• Motion to close meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter
• Discussion of land acquisition, disposition or expropriation (90(1)(e))
• Discussions with municipal officers on annual report objectives (90(1)(l))
• Confidential negotiations with provincial/federal governments (90(2)(b))

The meeting was procedural. Council voted unanimously to enter a closed session to discuss land acquisition, annual report objectives, and government negotiations.

• Approved motion to enter closed session (Unanimous)

Council Meeting

New Westminster City Council is reviewing several implementation plans and funding requests. Key items include an e-bike share system, food security allocations, and proposed conditions for addictions treatment residences.

• Endorsement of e-bike share implementation plan and procurement of an operator
• $30,000 allocation for Greater Vancouver Food Bank distribution at 302 Royal Avenue
• $4,160 for St. Barnabas - Shiloh Fifth Avenue and Hope Omid food security programs
• Proposed rezoning and permit conditions for addictions treatment and recovery residences
• Lease agreement with YMCA BC for child care at 65 E. Sixth Avenue

Council voted down a motion that would have required Mayor Patrick Johnstone to report on costs, itinerary and benefits of his Dubai trip, with Councillors Campbell, Henderson, McEvoy and Nakagawa opposed. Council did unanimously agree to ask the City's new Ethics Commissioner to run a workshop on the Code of Conduct including section 105 of the Community Charter. Council also endorsed conditions for addictions treatment and supportive recovery residences, endorsed an e-bike share implementation plan, and approved funding for food security programs.

• Motion requiring Mayor to report on Dubai trip costs, itinerary and benefits defeated (Campbell, Henderson, McEvoy, Nakagawa opposed)
• Amendment to add who the Mayor advised before travelling defeated (Campbell, Henderson, McEvoy, Nakagawa opposed)
• Ethics Commissioner workshop on Code of Conduct including Community Charter s.105 approved unanimously
• Addictions treatment and supportive recovery residence conditions endorsed unanimously
• E-bike share implementation plan endorsed and staff directed to start procurement, unanimously
• KPMG LLP appointed external auditors and 2023 audit planning report approved, unanimously
• $10,000 from Affordable Housing Fund allocated to retrofit Annex at 302 Royal Avenue for Greater Vancouver Food Bank, unanimously
• $4,160 allocated to St. Barnabas-Shiloh Fifth Avenue and Hope Omid food security programs in 2024, unanimously

Council Workshop

This Council Workshop has two main items. Council will consider directing staff to develop an Evaluation Framework for the Lower Twelfth Street area to guide catalyst development projects ahead of a broader OCP amendment. Council will also review updated 2024-2028 General Fund Operating Enhancements and a funding strategy, including a proposed $1.5M in operating budget refinements and an estimated 7.7% property tax increase, with a recommendation to bring the financial plan forward for public consultation.

• Developing Lower Twelfth Street Area Evaluation Framework
• Budget 2024: Updated General Fund Operating Enhancements and Funding Strategy
• Proposed $1.5M operating budget refinements
• Estimated 7.7% property tax revenue increase
• Public consultation on Consolidated 2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan

Council unanimously directed staff to create an evaluation framework for the Lower Twelfth Street area to guide development before a broader plan amendment. In the budget workshop, Council approved $1.5 million in operating budget refinements and instructed staff to prepare a five-year financial plan reflecting an estimated 7.7% property tax increase for public consultation. The budget motion passed with two councillors voting against it.

• Agenda changes received unanimously
• Directed staff to develop Lower Twelfth Street Evaluation Framework (unanimous)
• Approved $1.5M operating budget refinements (2 opposed)
• Instructed staff to incorporate refinements into 2024-2028 Five-Year Financial Plan
• Instructed staff to prepare bylaw with estimated 7.7% property tax increase for consultation

Advisory Planning Commission (APC)

The Advisory Planning Commission is meeting to receive an update on the 22nd Street Station Area Bold Vision engagement and to nominate a juror for the reGENERATE ideas challenge. The rest of the agenda is routine: adopting previous minutes, standing reports, and scheduling future meetings.

• 22nd Street Station Area Bold Vision engagement update
• Nomination of a juror for the reGENERATE ideas challenge
• Adoption of September 19, 2023 minutes
• Provincial press release on transit-oriented development attached

Pre-Closed Open Meeting (Council)

This is a procedural meeting where Council will immediately move into a closed session under Section 90 of the Community Charter to discuss items involving solicitor-client privilege, preliminary municipal service negotiations, and confidential talks with other governments. No public decisions or discussions are on the open agenda.

• Motion to close meeting under Section 90(1)(i), (k), (m), and (2)(b) of the Community Charter

The minutes record that City Council convened solely to vote on moving into a closed meeting under Section 90 of the Community Charter to discuss personnel, labour relations, and preliminary municipal service negotiations. No substantive public business or decisions were conducted during the open session before the meeting was terminated.

• Moved meeting into closed session under Section 90 of the Community Charter (Carried unanimously)

Council Meeting

New Westminster City Council meets to decide on a construction noise exemption for Metro Vancouver's Front Street sewer work, and to debate a motion calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. The public can speak on a Fraserside Community Services Society presentation. Information reports cover business workshops, Community Advisory Assembly appointments, COP28 outcomes, and train whistle cessation.

• Construction noise exemption for Metro Vancouver/RAM Consulting, Jan 15–Feb 29, 2024, 8 PM–7 AM, Front St. 300–700 block
• Motion by Councillor Nakagawa: letter to PM urging ceasefire in Gaza, humanitarian access, hostage release
• Public presentation: Fraserside Community Services Society
• Appointment of 36 members to Community Advisory Assembly pilot (1-year term)
• COP28 attendance outcomes report

City Council approved a motion to write to the Prime Minister regarding the conflict in Gaza. Council also granted a noise bylaw exemption for sewer work on Front Street.

• Approved motion to write to the Prime Minister urging an end to the siege of Gaza, unrestricted humanitarian aid, release of all hostages and prisoners, and a stop to arms trade with Israel (Unanimous)
• Approved Construction Noise Bylaw exemption for Metro Vancouver and RAM Consulting for manhole abandonments from 300 to 700 Front Street, Jan 15 to Feb 29, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Adopted agenda including Councillor Fontaine’s Notice of Motion for discussion at the next meeting (Unanimous)
• Denied amendment to move Item 10.3 to Reports and Presentations for Council Discussion and Action

Council Workshop

Council is holding the fifth budget workshop to review a refined 2024–2028 General Fund Capital Plan, incorporating feedback from the October 16 workshop and staff amendments. They will consider approving a $15.4M capital carryover from 2023, $5.2M in refinements, and directing staff to incorporate the updated $208.7M plan into the Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw. They will also receive information about the Sixth Avenue at Second Street intersection and provide direction.

• Approve $15.4M capital expenditure carryover from 2023
• Approve $5.2M proposed refinements to the capital plan
• Incorporate $208.7M 2024–2028 General Fund Capital Plan into Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw
• Receive info on Sixth Avenue at Second Street intersection and provide direction

Council approved a $15.4M budget carry-over and $5.2M in refinements to the 2024-2028 General Fund Capital Plan. The balance of the Growing Communities Fund Reserve was allocated to recreation amenities in neighborhoods lacking equitable access. A proposal for a new street light system at Second Street and Sixth Avenue was defeated.

• Approved $15.4M capital expenditure budget carry over from 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved $5.2M proposed refinements in the updated Capital Plan (Unanimous)
• Instructed staff to incorporate $208.7M Capital Plan into Financial Plan Bylaw (Carried; 2 opposed)
• Allocated Growing Communities Fund Reserve balance to recreation amenities (Carried; 1 opposed)
• Prioritized recreation amenities in neighborhoods lacking equitable access (Unanimous)
• Amended active transportation infrastructure scope to prioritize pedestrian safety (Unanimous)
• Denied $500K for street lights at Second Street and Sixth Avenue (Defeated; 3 opposed)
• Denied removal of Queen’s Park Petting Zoo from budget (Defeated; 4 opposed)

Community Heritage Commission (CHC)

The Community Heritage Commission is meeting to receive information and provide feedback on heritage and climate action initiatives, including energy retrofits for heritage homes. They will also receive an update on the removal of the temporary suspension of new Heritage Revitalization Agreement applications in the Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area. The agenda includes adoption of minutes from June 7, 2023, and a staff update on street naming for Ota Street in Queensborough.

• Discussion of Heritage and Climate Action report and energy retrofit guide for heritage homes
• Update on lifting temporary suspension of Heritage Revitalization Agreements in Queen's Park Heritage Conservation Area
• Adoption of minutes from June 7, 2023 meeting
• Street naming update for Ota Street in Queensborough