Question and Answer Period
There was one (1) question with an answer from staff included in the agenda package about fireworks for Canada Day. While there were no fireworks for Canada Day this year, there will be fireworks on Saturday, July 30 to celebrate the White Rock Sea Festival and Semiahmoo Days.
One (1) submission was received On Table regarding the 2021 Annual Report and when the City will be providing the Statement of Financial Information for 2021. The draft 2021 Annual Report is currently available for review and comment on our website. Staff confirmed both items will be on the July 25 Council agenda and there will be opportunity for public comments and questions on these items at that meeting.
Comments were asked in person regarding:
- Maintenance and landscaping for the areas in and around Maccaud Park, as well as the number of replacement trees expected to be planted following the work being done at the park.
Staff confirmed maintenance is scheduled for this week and Staff’s would review the tree bylaw answers to these questions will be posted on the City website, under the Questions and Answers page.
Presentations
Council received a presentation from members of the Kent Street Centre Expansion Proposal Committee. The Committee is looking to expand the Kent Street Activity Centre to address current space challenges, membership growth due an aging population and the potential for increased revenue.
Council approved the request for a Needs Assessment Study for the Kent Street Activity Centre. This cost will be shared with the Kent Street Seniors Society at an estimated amount of $25,000.
RCMP and Bylaw Officer Bicycle Use on the Waterfront Promenade
Council supported a recommendation to authorize RCMP Officers, Community Policing volunteers and City of White Rock Bylaw Officers to patrol the City’s waterfront promenade, White Rock Pier, and other City sidewalks, trails, or property on bicycles. Bike patrolling will enhance the visibility and accessibility of enforcement officers, supporting a higher level of public safety within the City.
Road Exchange Bylaw (14977 Beachview Avenue), 2022, No. 2433
Council received a report regarding an application to adjust the boundaries of 14977 Beachview Avenue. This adjustment involves a land exchange for private land adjacent to Buena Vista Avenue for City land adjacent to Beachview Avenue. This application works well with the City’s long-term plans to widen the 14900 block of Buena Vista Avenue.
Later in the evening, Council gave three (3) readings to the Road Exchange Bylaw for this application.
Status Update of Council’s 2021-2022 Top Priorities
An updated progress report was provided on Council’s top priorities.
Grants-In-Aid Sub-Committee Meeting
Council amended a recommendation from the Grants-in-Aid Sub-Committee, and awarded late submission Grants-in-Aid-Arts and Culture funding to two (2) organizations/ events:
- Arts of Course – South Rock Art Tour; and,
- Surrey Youth Theatre Company’s 25th Season event.
Grants-in-Aid are awarded through the Grants-in-Aid Policy. More information on this can be found on the City Website.
Economic Development Advisory Committee
Three (3) recommendations were endorsed by Council regarding the City’s Sister City and Friendship City agreements. The City will be working to enhance relationships with both La Connor Washington (Sister City) and Blaine Washington (a potential Friendship City).
Recommendation #1: Sister City Agreement and Friendship City Memorandum of Understanding
Staff will engage in discussions with La Conner, Washington, to renew White Rock’s Sister City Agreement; and staff will engage in discussions with Blaine, Washington, to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) regarding a Friendship City relationship.
Recommendation #2: Develop Sister City Recognition and Relationship
Staff will:
- Investigate what Sister City signage is currently in place in White Rock and explore options to install a sign in a more visible location.
- Arrange for Council representation to attend one Council meeting in La Conner each year.
- Provide a link to La Conner’s website on the City’s website.
- Promote La Conner’s popular tourist activities and events after the Sister City Agreement is signed.
- Discuss that reciprocal actions are to be taken by La Conner when discussing the formal Sister City Agreement.
Recommendation #3: Invitations to Future Events
Council will invite La Conner and Blaine, to a minimum of two major events per year, ideally Canada Day and Bright Walk in White Rock, and as hosts of these events Council will provide support or suggestions for transportation and accommodations inside the City and meals.