Question and Answer Period
One (1) On Table submission was received with questions regarding the delay in applications and processing times for building permits, renovations and business licences.
The following questions were asked in person regarding:
- Accessibility concerns with sidewalk let downs and hydro/sign poles for those using them who have accessibility challenges. As June 4 is SPARC BC’s Celebrate Access Awareness Council and staff were encouraged to look into this and address these concerns.
- Concerns were stated regarding the City’s Tree Protection Bylaw and Policy 611 not being followed in areas such as Ruth Johnson Park, Maccaud Park and on the “hump”.
- Comments were provided regarding overgrown vegetation blocking views for residents on Marine Drive and the need to continue maintenance on the hump.
- Concerns were noted with the Housing Advisory Committee’s mandate and the continued discussion of the Housing Action Plan at the Committee level.
Staff’s answers to these questions will be posted on the City website, under the Questions and Answers page.
Delegation
A delegation was heard regarding the City’s Tree Protection Bylaw including penalties and circumstances leading up to the bylaw infractions imposed on a property.
COVID-19 Update
The Fire Chief provided an On-Table update on COVID-19.
The Fire Chief also provided a brief update regarding a fire that occurred in an apartment complex at the 1400 block Blackburn Street on May 24. Council offered their thanks to the White Rock Fire Department for their continued work to keep the community safe.
West Coaster’s Car Show in White Rock
Council received for information a report on the “West Coaster’s Car Show in White Rock”. This report came to Council following a delegation that came forward requesting consideration of moving the West Coasters Car Show Uptown White Rock.
After confirmation from the Semiahmoo First Nation, the West Coaster’s Car Show will be going ahead this year in Semiahmoo Park on July 31, 2022. The Car Show features approximately 500 antique cars and hot rods.
Additional locations for the car show to be held Uptown may be considered in future years.
Relocation of Pre-Registered Programs from Centennial Park Tennis Courts
Council approved the use of $2,500 from the City’s Pickleball Courts Asset Improvement Budget to purchase and install a divider curtain for the tennis only courts at Centennial Park. This will allow for the pre-registered children’s tennis camp to continue on the tennis-only courts at Centennial Park which are located alongside the newly established pickleball only court.
Council further supported a recommendation to dedicate the courts on the Northeast Corner at Centennial Park as pickleball only courts starting June 1, 2022.
Vegetation Control on the Hump
In follow-up to a delegation that came before Council in February of this year, Council received a report discussing vegetation control on the hump. Council referred the report to the City’s Environmental Advisory Committee for their review and comment(s). The Committee will be reviewing this report in the coming months, and the Geotechnical Engineer noted in the report will be available at the meeting to provide further information as required.
White Rock Water Treatment Plant – Patent Applications
Council received an update on Patent Applications in both Canada and the US for the White Rock Water Treatment Plant. Staff noted that the current applications have been rejected at this time.
Council requested that additional information and discussion on this item take place at a future meeting.
Emerson Park – Options For Additional Playground Equipment
Council received a report regarding the options and related costs for additional playground equipment to be implemented (specifically for 8- to 10-year-old children) at Emerson Park. The current playground structure has been designed for children 2-5 years old following a survey that was launched on the Talk White Rock platform, where votes were split between the two age groups.
At this time Council directed that staff proceed with the current park design. Further consideration for additional park features for older children will be discussed by Council with direction to be provided to staff in within the next three (3) months.
Advisory Committee Meeting Method Considerations – Virtual, In-Person or Hybrid
Council directed staff to continue with virtual advisory committee meetings until the end of the current committee term -October 31, 2022.
Status Update Of Council’s 2021-2022 Top Priorities
An updated progress report was provided on Council’s top priorities.
Land Use and Planning Committee
Council endorsed a recommendation to hold a public meeting for public input on Development Variance Permit (DVP) No, 445 – 15385 Semiahmoo Avenue. This DVP would allow for an oversized fascia sign and a combined fascia sign (fascia sign and electronic message board sign) at the residential care facility and Peninsula United Church development (currently under construction) located at 15385 Semiahmoo Avenue.
Arts and Cultural Advisory Committee
Council endorsed a recommendation from the Arts and Cultural Advisory Committee requesting that the Committee’s 2021-2022 work plan item, “Exploring the options for creating an Arts Endowment Fund for Public Art” with the clarification that this be initially for public art be the Committee’s top priority moving forward.
Development Variance Permit No. 443 – 1532 Johnston Road
Following a Public Meeting held on May 16, 2022, Council approved a Development Variance Permit for an oversized fascia sign at the White Rock Players’ Club (located at 1532 Johnston Road).