Question and Answer Period
Two (2) members of the public attended to ask questions and comment regarding the following:
- Multi-family garbage pick-up - a request was made for the City to change back to a city managed garbage pick-up program for all White Rock residents.
- Financial planning and infrastructure for White Rock – what is the City’s planning process in order to address inflation and growth?
Staff will be bringing the budget forward in February. The City has five (5) year plans but will be looking further than this to balance the needs of community with the needs of the infrastructure in White Rock.
Answers for questions will be posted on the City website.
Delegations and Presentation:
Members from each of the following organizations provided information to Council:
- Hub Cycling encouraged consideration of cycling for short and medium-distance commuter trips to support active transportation, build a cycling network and to support cycling education in White Rock.
- Sources provided information regarding the upcoming Coldest Night of the Year event. This year the 2km or 5km walk takes place on February 25 in over 180 locations across Canada, including the White Rock Promenade. To register or donate, visit cnoy.org
- Friends of Semiahmoo Bay discussed Natural History Interpretive signs at the Waterfront.
- Peace Arch Hospital Foundation provided an update regarding projects currently taking place at the hospital.
Helen Fathers Centre Street Walkway - 2023 Update
Council directed staff to discontinue work on the project due to the increased cost of $3.5M. Council further requested that staff come back with design options for the walkway area with an expenditure of up to $100,000.
Multi-Family and Commercial Solid Waste Transition Update
Staff provided an update on the transition for multi-family and commercial solid waste to a city managed service. Council directed staff to continue with the status quo whereby multi-family and commercial solid waste collection is privately managed. Council further directed staff to contact the Waste Management Association of BC and request that they meet with their members to develop a plan to reduce traffic congestion, noise and GHG emissions from solid waste collection vehicles in White Rock.
Proposed Council Policy No. 518 – Bylaw Enforcement
Council endorsed a policy on Bylaw Enforcement which will set out the City’s approach to bylaw enforcement and how staff should respond to complaints over alleged bylaw contraventions.
Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Lease Renewal
Council authorized the renewal of the City’s lease with the BNSF Railway Company for an additional five (5) years (August 1, 2023 to July 31, 2028).
Bylaws
Several financial bylaws received final reading:
- 2023 Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2447
- White Rock Sign Bylaw No. 2452
- Water Services Bylaw No. 2448
- Latecomer Interest Rate Bylaw No. 2450
Watch the January 16, 2023 Council Meeting Video.