Quesnel Council Highlights - Nov 21st mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Delegation - North Cariboo Seniors' Council The North Cariboo Seniors' Council, together with their host organization United Way Better at home provide services to approximately 400 seniors in the City of Quesnel and Cariboo Regional District. The services include a meal program, snow removal, yard work, income tax referral and transportation. As a non-profit Society, NCSC relies on grant funding, sponsorships/donations from local businesses and organizations. Council referred the Society's request for an annual contribution of $30,000 to cover base operating costs to the Financial Sustainability & Audit Committee for review and consideration.

Comprehensive Fees & Charges Council approved the first three readings of Bylaw 1952 - City of Quesnel Comprehensive Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw, which will see the following fee increases effective January 1, 2024: Building – Increase to base fee of $80 – up to $100. B-1 Water Utility Fees - 10% increase (single family dwelling $26.08) B-2 Sewer Utility Fees - 5% increase (single family dwelling $14.64) C-1 Garbage Fees - 15% increase  C-2 Landfill Fees – Spring review of landfill fees D-1 Museum Fees – Change to Outreach Booking Fee. D-2 Corporate Services – Increase to Tax/Utility certificates; review ChargePoint EV Charging Station located at the Visitor Centre usage and costs  D-4 Cemetery Rates – 4% increase on service rates, 10-15% increase on plot rates  D-5 Airport Fees – 10% increase D-6 Dog Licence Fees – Increase of $5 per licence.

 

SPCA Council approved the 2024 contract with the BC Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Municipal Finance Authority 2023 Equipment Financing In the 2023 Capital Plan, Council approved the purchase of $860,000 of mobile equipment as required by the City’s Fleet Replacement Plan. $630,000 will be funded using the MFA Equipment Financing Program at 5.62% interest, to be paid back within 5 years. 1 plow truck - $350,000 1 pick-up truck - $50,000 2 heavy duty pick-up - $150,000 1 vac truck - $260,000 1 Bylaw vehicle - $50,000          Total Budget $860,000

 

Development Services: Wendy's: Council approved a development permit for the proposed construction of a Wendy's drive-through restaurant on Newman Road and Balsam Avenue East, subject to bonding, a servicing agreement and design approval. Vape Shops: Council directed staff to amend the City of Quesnel Zoning Bylaw No.1880, 2019 to create a new principal use for vapour retail sales and permit on a spot zone basis, to meet the new legislative requirements and align with Northern Health regulations.

Request for Proposal for a New Fire Truck Successful bid:  Fort Garry Fire Trucks - Fire Apparatus Manufacturer Fort Garry meets and exceeds all RFP requirements, is consistent with current fleet layout and design, while still maintaining best value. They provide the shortest delivery date and have designated Emergency Vehicle Technicians located in British Columbia for all warranty work.

 

Promotion & Advertising During 2024 Winter Games The Lhtako Quesnel 2024 BC Winter Games will be held February 22 – 25, 2023. The Lhtako Quesnel 2024 BC Winter Games Society is responsible for organizing the event. Council approved a request for up to $10,000 from the 2023 Council Initiatives fund to support marketing that will maximize the economic impact of the Games. Tactics are aimed at making a lasting impression on visitors, maximizing visitor spending during the Games and encouraging visitors to return to our naturally vibrant community - Tourism Quesnel.

Housing Solutions Table Housing has been a key strategic initiative for Council for several years. Although there has been success in stimulating some housing developments more work is needed to increase the supply of housing in the community. Council approved the formation of a new Housing Solutions Table as a “Select Committee” and appointed Councillor Elliott as the Chair and Councillor Roodenburg as Alternate Chair.

 

Quesnel Lawn Bowling Association After decades, the Quesnel Lawn Bowling Association advised Council by letter that they will be dissolving the organization and turning their clubhouse at West Fraser Timber Park over to the City.

Bylaws Bylaw 1905 - City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1905, 2021 (DP2023-65 319 North Fraser Drive) - Final Reading Bylaw 1933 - City of Quesnel Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw 1933, 2023 (OCPRz2022-42 - 2288 Gassoff Road) - Final Reading Bylaw 1934 - City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1934, 2023 (OCPRz2022-42 2288 - Gassoff Road) - Final Reading Bylaw 1952 - City of Quesnel Comprehensive Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw 1952, 2023 - First Three Readings

 

Lhtako Quesnel 2024 B.C. Winter Games Organized by the Lhtako Quesnel 2024 BC Winter Games Society, the Games will be held February 22 – 25, 2024. Requiring up to 2000 volunteers, this is an opportunity to witness future Olympians, experience personal satisfaction, or get your children involved supporting this massive event. Learn more www.bcwintergames.ca or register today to volunteer.