FoodCycler Pilot Program Results

The FoodCycler Pilot Program, launched in February 2024 with $15,000 in funding, successfully distributed 100 units to NRRM residents, School District 81, and non-profits. The program diverted 23.3 metric tonnes of food waste annually, reduced household waste by 33.8 bags per year, and received a significant satisfaction rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. 97% of users indicated they are committed to continued use and increased environmental awareness, Council is considering further expansion and requested that staff come back with options including potential funding sources for consideration.

COTW Report #10/24 | FoodCycler Report Card | FoodCycler Presentation | Video Recording

Draft Management Plan of the Muskwa-Kechika/Public Engagement

BC Parks sought feedback on the draft Backcountry Protected Areas Management Plan for the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area closing on September 6, 2024. The plan covers thirteen protected areas, including Prophet River and Toad River Hot Springs Parks. Recent public feedback raised concerns about the plan's development process and management strategies. Regional Council approved staff to submit comments on behalf of NRRM and suggested improved community engagement and clarification on management intentions.

COTW Report #11/24 | Overview Map | Video Recording

Community Identity - Downtown Revitalization Plan

Regional Council supports moving forward with the Downtown Revitalization Plan, focusing on creating a cohesive community theme and identity. A request for proposals will be released to identify a consultant to engage the public in defining Fort Nelson's identity and design a unified look for the downtown area, with potential wayfinding and signage. The project has a $26,900 budget, with scope and budget adjustments to be considered if needed.

COTW Report #12/24 | Video Recording

Community Facility Fee Waiver Impacts

Regional Council's discussion on the Community Facilities Fee Waiver Policy highlighted a potential impact to revenues of $10,000-$15,000 and increased staff costs due to additional demand for setup, takedown, and cleaning through the greater access to spaces at the Recreation Centre. To mitigate these impacts, Council proposed limiting waivers to four times annually per group and excluding high-cost areas like ice surfaces, the pool, and the Community Hall kitchen. The aim is to balance community access with operational sustainability. Staff will now fine-tune the policy, incorporating these recommendations, and present it for further review.

COTW Report #13/24 | DRAFT Community Facility Fee Waiver Policy | 2023 Facility Booking Report | Video Recording

Provincial Agricultural Land Commission Application 7100 Alaska Hwy

Regional Council has reviewed and has no concerns with Jaycor Holdings Ltd.'s application to construct a dugout on the property at 7100 Alaska Highway, legally described as Lot 1 District Lots 2395, 3055, and 4104 Plan BCP18054. The proposed dugout, measuring approximately 16,200 cubic meters, will provide water for agricultural use, irrigation, and fire-fighting. This construction is in line with the property’s zoning and official community plan designations. The Agriculture Land Commission will make the final decision on the application.

Admin Report #41/24 | Site Plan | Area Context Map | Video Recording

Development Variance Permit Application: Yammy Sushi Restaurant

A Development Variance Permit (DVP-2401) has been approved for Yammy Sushi Japanese Restaurant at 4903 51st Ave W. This permit allows for three fascia signs that exceed the height and area limits set by the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality (NRRM) Sign Bylaw No. 73, 2012. The signs will be larger than the bylaw permits (0.3m in height), with each sign measuring up to 0.55m in height and varying area dimensions. Public notifications were sent, and no objections have been received. This decision does not set a precedent for future sign variances, but it highlights the need for a review of the outdated sign bylaw.

Admin Report #42/24 | Proposed Signs | Area Context Map | Video Recording

Boreal Caribou Proposed Wildlife Habitat Area Legal Orders

The Province of British Columbia is seeking feedback on proposed Wildlife Habitat Areas (WHAs) as part of the Boreal Caribou Protection and Recovery Plan (BCPRP) by September 11, 2024. The WHAs will impose restrictions on forestry and other activities to protect caribou habitat. Regional Council has raised concerns about potential socioeconomic impacts, the effects of wildfires on caribou habitat, and the accuracy of the data used. There was a discussion of the need for consultation with Fort Nelson First Nation (FNFN) and a thorough review of the data before finalizing any response to the Province’s plan.

Admin Report #43/24 | Order Map | Proposed Regulations | Video Recording

Temporary Use Permit Extension: Drive-In Cinema

The Phoenix Theatre Management Society has applied for a 3-year extension of a Temporary Use Permit (TUP) to continue operating a drive-in cinema at 5307 50th Avenue South, Fort Nelson. The original TUP expired in June 2024. The next steps involve public notification in accordance with the Local Government Act. The extension will allow the drive-in cinema to continue operating on the Highway Commercial (C2) zoned property owned by the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality. This extension is the last which can be granted until a more permanent solution is found.

Admin Report #44/24 | Application | Video Recording

Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment - Water Use Restrictions

Regional Council has adopted Bylaw No. 227, 2024, amending the Bylaw Notice Enforcement system to enhance water conservation efforts. The bylaw introduces Stage 1 water restrictions, limiting watering to once in the morning on designated days. Fines for violations range from $90 to $500, depending on the type of violation, with discounts of up to 50% available through compliance agreements. These measures aim to promote responsible water use and ensure year-round sustainability within the community.

Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw Water Use Restrictions | Video Recording

For Information

NRRM from Brian Godlonton, Fire Commissioner

Fire Safety Act

Correspondence

Mayor's Discretionary Charges - 2nd Quarter

Correspondence

NRRM Letter of Support

Rural Northern Immigration Pilot

Correspondence

Council Information Package- August 14, 2024

Correspondence

Council Information Package- August 21, 2024

No Package

Council Information Package- August 28, 2024

Correspondence