5/22/2013 3:51 PM Public Notice - Alternate Approval Process, Comox Strathcona waste management service area:
On behalf of the Comox Valley Regional District:
Notice is hereby provided to Electors within the Comox Strathcona waste management service area:
Please note: elector response forms must be submitted to Campbell River City Hall no later than 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29th;
After May 29th, members of the public are responsible to courier or deliver their response to the Comox Valley Regional District Office, 600 Comox Road, Courtenay, BC
Further information and Elector Response Forms are available at:
Campbell River City Hall, Sportsplex and Community Centre, or by calling 250-334-6000 or toll-free 1-800-331-6007; or on the Comox Strathcona Waste Management website: www.cswm.ca/hostcommunity.
The only persons entitled to sign the electoral form are electors within the Comox Valley and Strathcona Regional Districts. | 5/22/2013 3:31 PM Utility box transformation tells drinking water story
The big green box that houses water supply equipment on South Alder Street has been transformed into a vibrant visual art display that tells the story of our community water supply. The cartoon-style art visible from the corner of Rockland and South Alder animates the journey water takes on its way from the watershed to our taps.
“These utility boxes are an essential part of our water system, serving a very practical purpose for water delivery, and because of their size, the present a great opportunity to share information,” says Councillor Mary Storry. “Large utility boxes are often a target for graffiti, and this box, although it’s fairly new, had already been tagged. Adding artwork has a second benefit of deterring vandalism.”
The lively artwork at this location was created by local artist and cartoonist, Peter Davies, also known as Pete the Pen.
“The large canvas created the perfect opportunity to create something that is both fun and educational,” Davies says. “I’m very pleased with the results, and I hope people in Campbell River will enjoy this art for years to come.”
Mayor Walter Jakeway has proclaimed May 20 to 26 Drinking Water Week in Campbell River, and Council members came out to admire and acknowledge the artwork on May 22 as part of Drinking Water Week.
“The vivid images in the artwork encourage us to reflect on all the ways that we use water in our homes and yards as well as the need for adequate supply for fire protection,” Councillor Storry adds. “Other aspects of our water supply, like operation and maintenance of the system are illustrated, and the many reasons to protect our watershed and conserve water for its natural and recreational uses are shown in this art, too. I encourage everyone to get out for a walk and enjoy this. It’s really fantastic!”
To find out more about Drinking Water Week, visit www.drinkingwaterweek.org. Information about the City’s drinking water system can be found at www.campbellriver.ca under Residents/Water.
Background info
· BC residents use an average of 353 litres of water per day but most think they use less than 200 litres. The average Canadian uses 274 litres per day.
· 26% of Canadians have no idea where the water that flows out of their tap comes from.
· Our domestic water consumption can increase up to 50% in the summer months when people are watering their lawns and gardens.
· Only 27% of British Columbians say they don't use their toilet as a convenient garbage bin. Hair, food and dead pests are the most common items being flushed.
· Only 4 in 10 Canadians make the connection between water and electricity, understanding that it requires energy to treat and pump water.
· 65% of all indoor water use occurs in the bathroom. The next highest area of use is laundry, which accounts for 20%, followed by kitchen and drinking (10%) and cleaning (5%).
· Only 13% of British Columbians think there should be major investment now in water treatment, delivery and storm water management systems in their community. 86% think they we only need minor regular investments for upkeep.
Source: BC Water & Waste Association
Peter Davies, illustrator, cartoonist, designer and author specializes in creating images that tell a story.
Originally from the UK where he studied advertising and graphic design, Peter applied his love of illustrating and cartoons to a long and varied career before emigrating to Canada in 2006.
An established, versatile artist, Peter moved to Campbell River in 2010, where he promptly set about involving himself in a wide range of community projects that have included:
· lectures and workshops for children, teens and adults on creating a storybook
· contributing artwork for local festivals and fund raisers
· developing and managing a school commemorative mural project
· receiving an Award of Excellence at the Art Gallery Members Exhibition in 2011
· being instrumental in the staging of the 2012 ArtsFest in Campbell River
· creating marketing and interpretive presentations for the City of Campbell River
As an author, Peter writes and illustrates his own books for children and has recently (2012) been instrumental in the design and publishing of an anthology of North Island writers, to which he also contributed an illustrated story based in Campbell River.
| 5/22/2013 1:36 PM Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about Property Tax Payments | 5/22/2013 1:34 PM City budget adopted, tax notices coming end of this month
Council adopted the 2013 Tax Rates Bylaw at its May 7 meeting, and tax notices will be mailed at the end of the month. Property tax payments are due by July 2, 2013.
“Property tax payments collect fees for a number of regional services, including hospital, school, regional district and library services,” says Laura Ciarniello, the City’s general manager of corporate services. “The portion of taxation, parcel taxes and user fees related to City services has increased on average 3.91 per cent.”
Water and sewer fees and parcel taxes charged by the City are outside the property tax rate, and property tax rates are calculated according to the values and assessment provided by the British Columbia Assessment authority on individual homes.
“The average residential home assessment in Campbell River (valued at $253,000) is down nearly two per cent (-1.9%) this year over last,” Ciarniello says. “The tax increase equates to an additional $52.30 per year for the average home, and the average monthly cost to fund more than 100 services is approximately $187.”
Highlights of the City’s $76 million 2013 budget
· Funded by property taxes, water and sewer fees, and funding grants
· Approximately $32.2 million funds general operating costs
- Approximately $20.1 million funds water, sewer and airport ($12.7 million for infrastructure upgrades)
- Increased water and sewer fees to fund new and replacement infrastructure
- Parks Parcel tax remains unchanged at $25
- Enhanced services to note: a statistically-valid community survey, Downtown design charrette, improved horticulture services, seasonal lighting at Spirit Square, funding for increased signage and Airport business opportunities
- A zero per cent business tax increase
- Less than one per cent of the City’s property tax revenue in 2013 will come from major industry
- New debt for 2013 in the amount of $600,000
- Allocation of one per cent of tax revenue ($150,000) to begin replacement of aging infrastructure
- Capital projects in 2013 continue to be funded by water and sewer user fees, borrowing, grants and reserves rather than through property taxation
Property owners are reminded to check tax notices and user fees to ensure charges related to secondary suites reflect activated or de-activated status.
Property tax payments can be mailed or paid in person at City Hall. Post-dated cheques are accepted. The City will also accept payment by debit card. Property owners must pay transaction fees and ensure that any debit card transaction limits will cover the amount of taxes due. The City cannot accept payment by credit card.
Things to remember about the Home Owner Grant:
· Residential property owners can claim the Home Owner Grant without paying property taxes.
· Banks and financial institutions cannot claim the home owner grant for you.
· How to apply for the Home Owner Grant
o Go online to www.campbellriver.ca and click on “Home Owner Grant” then launch the Home Owner Grant application from the link at the bottom of the screen. Use your access code (called “Access” on your tax notice, beside the folio number).
· Apply in person at City Hall 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, except statutory holidays
Questions about property tax payments should be directed to the City’s Finance Department at 250-286-5715.
Read answers to frequently asked questions about property tax payments here Property Tax and Financial Plan FAQ May-13.pdf
| 5/22/2013 9:14 AM Drinking Water Week - Career in Water? Are you interested in a career in water? Wondering about the journey that water takes from the source to the tap and back to the environment? View "The People Behind the Water" video at http://www.drinkingwaterweek.org under the resource page.
| 5/21/2013 3:36 PM It's Drinking Water Week! | 5/21/2013 3:22 PM Centennial Park upgrades feedback opportunity
There’s still time to share your thoughts about plans for upgrades at Centennial Park.
The City of Campbell River hosted a public open House the evening of May 16 to showcase two conceptual designs developed for the Centennial Park upgrades. Both designs include the development of a multisport court between the two tennis courts and the installation of a natural playscape in the central core of the park.
The designs and a questionnaire that asks for feedback on the two designs are available online for people who were unable to attend the open house. To view the designs and complete an online questionnaire about the park upgrades, visit www.campbellrivercentennialpark.ca. The designs and questionnaires are also available at the Sportsplex, Community Centre and City Hall.
Upgrade plans for Centennial Park are part of the City’s Strategic Parks Plan, which outlines a playground renewal program. According to the plan, Centennial Park playground equipment is slated for replacement in 2013. Feedback from two focus groups was incorporated into the two conceptual designs that were presented at the open house.
“Rather than replacing the traditional equipment with more of the same, the upgrades will introduce a natural playscape, which uses natural materials and site grades to create an outdoor play environment that changes from day to day and from season to season,” explains Lynn Wark, the City’s parks project supervisor. “The concept is designed to encourage natural play that reconnects kids with nature and provides opportunities for creation of their own play, enhancing social skills and motor development as well as enhancing overall physical health.”
Kathy Rae, Family Resource Coordinator at Sunrises Resources for Early Childhood Development, said that “in over 40 years working with parents and children, I have noticed that children connecting with the outdoors and natural playspaces in particular is diminishing at an alarming rate. There is so much research that documents the multitude of benefits achieved when children play in nature. This playscape will provide wonderful opportunities for children in Campbell River.”
“Unstructured play spaces that integrate natural elements are now recognized as powerful – some research suggests critical – in assuring children’s physical and mental health, and intellectual development,” says Joyce McMann, Family Place Coordinator for Campbell River Family Services Society when reflecting on the natural playspace design concepts. “As backyards get smaller and public neighbourhood spaces increasingly groomed, a trend back to natural play space is a vision to celebrate for a child-friendly community. The City’s initiative to think about playgrounds in a much broader way than ‘simply play equipment outside’ is very exciting.”
Comments must be received by Friday, May 24.
For more information, please contact Lynn Wark, Parks Project Supervisor at 250-286-7275. | 5/17/2013 10:24 AM Drinking Water Week May 20-26 | 5/15/2013 3:08 PM Public Hearing Notice - 1960 McDonald Road
Public Hearing Notice: Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing regarding the following will be held in the Council Chambers of City Hall located at 301 St. Ann’s Road in Campbell River, B.C. at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28, 2013. Property owners are required to provide all tenants, leaseholders and occupants with a copy of this Public Hearing Notice.
Proposal for 1960 McDonald Road: That Zoning Bylaw 3250, 2006 Section 5.9.1, Commercial Four (C‐4) Zone be amended to include “storage yard” as a permitted primary use on Lot 1, District Lot 53, Sayward District, Plan 9077 (1960 McDonald Road) .
For more information read the
| 5/15/2013 10:08 AM Splash Park grand opening June 15, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Click on this poster to learn more details.
| 5/14/2013 6:02 PM Accounting 101: Understanding when a surplus does not mean cash to spend
A $3.704 million annual surplus noted by City of Campbell River auditors does not represent available cash to reduce property taxation, confirms City auditor MNP.
At the May 7, 2013 Council meeting, the accounting firm presented the 2012 audited financial statements.
“The auditors noted significant improvement in both the audit process and the City’s financial management, but unfortunately, an item called ‘annual surplus’ has been misinterpreted by some people – including the Mayor,” says Council’s Finance Liaison Andy Adams. “It needs to be clarified that what’s called a ‘surplus’ does not represent real dollars available to be spent on general City operations.
“To put it in a more simple context, if you are a home owner and you receive an income tax refund in May, your bank account shows a ‘surplus’ for a few months, but in July you receive your property tax bill, so the so-called surplus was never really there as there were known expenses that needed to be covered. The same situation applies here for the City only on a larger scale, in that Council, as a whole, already has endorsed and approved expenses for projects that have yet to be completed.”
Provincial accounting regulations require that an “annual surplus” be calculated on local government financial statements. It is an accounting term that can include items such as:
- surplus / deficits in general operating, airport, water and sewer accounts
- asset depreciation over useful asset life
- funds remaining to complete capital projects already underway
Brad Piercy of MNP explains that: “The calculation of annual surplus is complicated, and in this case does not represent excess tax money or cash available for the City to spend without looking at capital projects first.”
The $3.704 million calculated as a City of Campbell River “annual surplus” on December 31, 2012 relates primarily to money that was to be carried forward into 2013 to complete capital projects.
“Some projects were underway, but not completed in 2012, and, in accounting terms, when we calculate funding set aside to finish these, it’s included in what we called a ‘surplus’,” Adams says. “Council voted to dedicate money for capital projects to improve local infrastructure, and once contracts are awarded, the funds can only be used for that work.”
Adams also notes: “City staff have worked hard to reduce our operating costs, and with some delays in projects, less money was spent in 2012 than anticipated, but regulations on local government finances stipulate that water and sewer funding is not eligible to be used for general expenses. This money can only be used for operations and projects related to water and sewer.”
Adams concludes: The audited financial statements showed that the City of Campbell River property tax levy decreased by $125,000 over 2011 funding, and senior government grant funding decreased by about $4 million, which confirms the City did a good job balancing 2012 expenses to match the funds available while continuing to provide the citizens of Campbell River with the services and support they expect.”
“Council has worked diligently to improve the City’s financial position, and the auditor’s report speaks to that success,” states City manager Andy Laidlaw, who has been fielding calls from concerned citizens.
The financial statements are available on the City’s website and will be included in the City’s annual report, which will be available to the public on June 9, 2013.
| 5/8/2013 3:48 PM Tough decision ahead for Energy Challenge judges
After 30 days of conserving energy and sharing their journey with the rest of the community, five Campbell River families have finished BC’s first home energy video challenge. And now comes the tough part as judges decide which family will win the $1,500 grand prize for a home energy retrofit.
The Power Down Campbell River home energy video challenge began on April 6 and wrapped up on May 4. The Bellwood-Behan, Klein, Loeb, Millward, and Seldon families fought to lower their energy bills and capture the funniest video footage during their 30-day energy conservation journey.
Over the next three weeks, judges from BC Hydro, Shaw TV, 97.3 the Eagle, 99.7 the River and City Green Solutions will review the video footage. They will judge each family’s efforts based on the entertainment value of their video footage and the amount of energy saved. Only one family will win the grand prize of $1,500 towards a home energy retrofit of their choice.
“It’s going to be a very tough decision for the judges to pick one winner,” says Amy van den Hooven, the City’s Energy Challenge Coordinator. “Every family has gone above and beyond our expectations. They all drastically lowered their energy consumption and captured very entertaining video footage.”
Some project highlights that families completed during the challenge included a homemade solar oven, a bike blender and a solar shower. Families also got the community involved in the Energy Challenge by organizing a community walk and encouraging people to turn their lights off on Earth Day, interviewing Campbell River energy heroes and bringing a neighbourhood together to sing about energy conservation.
Each family also lowered their energy consumption by making simple habit changes, like turning lights off, hanging clothes to dry, taking shorter showers and unplugging electric devices not in use. Some participants also completed affordable retrofits to make their homes more energy efficient such as insulating windows and attics and blocking air leaks.
“This challenge showed us that we can live comfortably and still save energy,” says Paul Klein, one of the energy challenge participants. “I think that if our family can make changes to save energy, any family can.”
“During the 30-day challenge my kids learned so much, and they really took the initiative to help us save energy,” said Lorna Seldon, another Energy Challenge participant. “One of the highlights was bringing our friends, family and neighbours together to sing a song we wrote called the Human Energy Race.”
“It is initiatives like the Energy Challenge that will lead to positive change in Campbell River because we tell our friends about it and then they tell their friends and soon enough the whole community is making changes to conserve more energy,” says Roger Seldon, another Energy Challenge particapant.
The footage that each family captured during the energy challenge will be made into a professionally produced film to inspire other people to conserve energy. This film will be shared in local schools, on Shaw TV and Facebook, and premiered at Campbell River’s 2014 Earth Week film festival.
To help the judges decide who should win the grand prize, visit the Sustainable Campbell River Facebook page and leave a comment. Learn about the 30-day Energy Challenge and ways you can save energy on the City’s Facebook page and website (www.campbellriver.ca). Go to City Hall / Departments / Sustainability / Green City. | 5/8/2013 9:37 AM City seeks construction firms for downtown “makeover” with St Ann’s block upgrade project
Work on the St Ann’s block upgrade project is moving forward with an invitation to tender now posted. Tender No.743 was posted last week on the City website. It covers upgrades to underground services including sewer, water and storm drainage systems, as well as above-ground improvements to roads, sidewalks, streetlights and landscaping for the area connecting 10th Avenue to Shoppers Row. The tender closes May 23, 2013.
The work will result in a complete “makeover” of the St Ann’s block area. Many of the above-ground upgrades will help create inviting spaces for pedestrians, cyclists and visitors. For example, new trees and small, park-like spaces and garden areas will offer places where visitors and shoppers can mingle with workers during lunch breaks. New streetlights (similar to those in Willow Point) will improve lighting in the evening, and creative designs in paving stones will make streets and laneways more appealing. Options for sidewalk patio space could encourage existing cafés to expand or new ventures to set up shop.
The City anticipates strong interest for tender No. 743 from local and BC contractors, especially with so many general contractors working in the region.
“Between this project and numerous other construction projects already underway around town, crews and contractors will remain busy this summer around Campbell River,” said Mayor Walter Jakeway. “These are real jobs. We encourage construction companies and personnel to spend their dollars locally when they are working on Campbell River job sites. It’s a win for our community and especially for local businesses to have this volume of new construction activity happening here.”
The project area—which connects 10th Avenue to Shoppers Row and includes Alder, Beech St and Dubeau—will require significant excavation. The City intends to get construction moving in June to take advantage of the dry summer months. One of the contractor’s first tasks will be to prepare a traffic management plan to outline how cars and pedestrians will move safely through and around the site.
“We recognize that keeping people moving downtown is of vital importance to businesses and visitors, so the project team has made traffic management an early priority on the project,” said Councillor Mary Storry, who oversees the public works and transportation portfolio for the City of Campbell River.
Information about road detours will be provided to local news media and posted on the City website as soon as it’s available. Construction is estimated to start in June and proceed to the end of 2013. Coinciding with the upgrade project work is the construction of a new office building being planned by Seymour Pacific Developments at Alder and St Ann’s.
The St Ann’s project tender is posted on the City of Campbell River website under Bid Opportunities. For full information, contact the Facilities and Supply Management Department at 250-286-5766. For more information about the St Ann’s upgrade project, visit the Downtown Revitalization project pages on the City’s website (click the Capital Projects hotlink button on the home page).
--30--
Contact:
Marci Hotsenpiller, Project Communications
Downtown Revitalization Initiative
Tel: 250-286-5778
marci.hotsenpiller@campbellriver.ca
| 5/8/2013 9:18 AM Beneficial bugs help with garden pest management
Wondering how to control the pests in your garden? Looking for an alternative to pesticides? North Island College’s upcoming Organic Pest Management Workshop and Tour might offer the information you need.
"Organic gardens are free of chemicals and have a rich diversity of organisms making their living where you grow your food – and you can use this to your benefit,” says Marla Limousin, owner and farmer at Nature’s Way Farm in the Comox Valley. “When a garden is alive with all sorts of life forces, encouraging beneficial organisms is a safe, easy and natural way to control those critters that think your food is their food.”
Limousin will facilitate the Organic Pest Management Workshop and Tour on Saturday, May 25. As part of North Island College’s Lettuce Grow series, the workshop takes place from 1 to 4 p.m., and will include live examples of organic farming and pest control at Nature’s Way Farm.
“To control garden pests through the creation of a balanced and diverse ecosystem, we’ll examine soil health, increased diversity, agricultural methods, botanical pesticides and physical controls," Limousin says. “We’ll also talk about natural predators, planting schedules and plant health, creating spaces for natural insect predators, rotating crops to confuse pests and what controls are on the Organic Materials Review Institute certified list. Plus, we’ll look at the effect of the farmer’s shadow as the best pest control.”
When dealing with pest management, Kira DeSorcy, Lead Instructor for the Lettuce Grow program, notes that observing and understanding your environment and the organisms you are dealing with is key.
“For example, a ladybug is a beneficial predator that will help keep down infestations of aphids, and the ladybug is most beneficial for pest control during the larval stages of its life cycle, when it resembles a 12-millimetre alligator. Many people would squish this bug, not knowing the benefits it brings to the garden,” says DeSorcy.
“And did you know, slugs are a favourite snack for chickens and ducks?” DeSorcy adds.
Chickens and ducks are currently permitted in Campbell River in zones RU-1, RU-2 and RU-3, and on properties one acre or larger in the Quinsam Livestock Boundary.
If you have any questions or comments on growing local food, please send them to growlocal@campbellriver.ca. Your questions will be addressed in a future Q&A article.
To register online for Organic Pest Management or any workshop in the Lettuce Grow series, please visit www.nic.bc.ca/continuingeducation and search course codes GENI 7911-8050.
The Lettuce Grow courses and article series support the implementation of the City of Campbell River’s Agriculture Plan and the community sustainability goal of local food self-sufficiency and resiliency. | 5/3/2013 2:20 PM Myrt Thompson trail erosion – public asked to avoid unsafe portion of walking route
Two holes about half way along the Myrt Thompson trail have been roped off, and warning signs are posted to keep people from walking close to an erosion hazard.
Both holes are approximately three feet across and three feet deep. The hole at the edge of the bank is open at the bottom, with the river flowing beneath the hole.
“These holes indicates significant erosion, and it appears the bank could collapse, so we have roped off the area with signs at both ends to prevent people from walking too close,” says Lynn Wark, the City’s parks project supervisor. “It appears that warning signs previously installed in this area have been removed. To protect the public, we want to make people aware that they need to respect the barriers marked by the fence and avoid walking close to the holes in this area.”
The City has notified affected property owners (Campbell River Indian Band) as well as other levels of government with jurisdiction along the river.
“We are working to address this safety concern as quickly as possible,” Wark adds. “We’re working with other agencies involved to assess the extent of damage and options for repairs so we can best to address the erosion along the bank and trail.”
Factors that contribute to the erosion along the bank are believed to include fluctuating river level and water flowing past and around old pilings for a former log dump in the area.
Myrt Thompson trail erosion cu.jpg
Myrt Thompson trail hazard sign and fence cu May-13.jpg | 4/24/2013 11:13 AM Council awards pound contract, directs staff to work with SPCA to support animal welfare
At its April 23 meeting, City Council awarded its pound contract to Coastal Animal Control Services and directed staff to continue to work with the BC SPCA in an effort to support animal welfare services in Campbell River.
“Council looks forward to having the SPCA continue to offer its adoption, emergency rescue and education services in Campbell River and surrounding area,” said Councillor Andy Adams.
Council also agreed to contribute to upcoming fundraising efforts to support the SPCA’s animal welfare efforts in Campbell River.
Council directed that a donation of up to $10,000 will be given to match community funds raised during the May campaign to be led by local veterinarian Dr. Helen Kwong.
Council was expecting to receive additional data and clarification of financial information about the Campbell River SPCA branch, but these had not arrived prior to the Tuesday evening meeting. | 4/22/2013 4:01 PM
Starting in late April, the City of Campbell River will begin a roadside weed control program that involves applying commercially available weed killer to curbs and sidewalks along high-traffic local roads.
Priority routes will be those with sidewalks, concrete curb and gutter and centre meridians.
“Not only are weeds unsightly, they can damage curbs and sidewalks,” explains Ron Neufeld, the City’s operations general manager. “Grasses and weeds accumulate in the seams of curbs and sidewalks, and through natural plant growth and die off, organic material builds up that will eventually cause cracks – and the need for expensive repairs.”
To inform people about the roadside weed control program, the City has posted a Frequently Asked Questions document on its website (under What’s New at www.campbellriver.ca). The City will also set up signs in during the work and advertise where herbicide application will occur.
The herbicide will not be applied during rainy or windy conditions, so the schedule could change depending on the weather.
“Different approaches to weed control along roads in Campbell River have included steaming, burning and scraping. Of these, scraping was the most effective, but also the most labour-intensive and most costly,” Neufeld adds. “And with limited resources and a large area where weeds need to be removed, the City’s weed scraping program did not successfully manage the problem.”
The City will schedule herbicide application for early morning hours (starting at 5 a.m.) to minimize traffic disruption, and to ensure the product is dry and considered safe before most people are out walking.
The City expects to apply herbicide twice this year in problem areas, and aims to reduce frequency of the herbicide application in future years.
FAQ Herbicide Apr-13.pdf | 4/22/2013 1:06 PM Roadside weed control begins late April
Starting in late April, the City of Campbell River will begin a roadside weed control program that involves applying commercially available weed killer to curbs and sidewalks along high-traffic local roads.
Priority routes will be those with sidewalks, concrete curb and gutter and centre meridians.
“Not only are weeds unsightly, they can damage curbs and sidewalks,” explains Ron Neufeld, the City’s operations general manager. “Grasses and weeds accumulate in the seams of curbs and sidewalks, and through natural plant growth and die off, organic material builds up that will eventually cause cracks – and the need for expensive repairs.”
To inform people about the roadside weed control program, read this Frequently Asked Questions document FAQ Herbicide Apr-13.pdf.
The City will also set up signs in during the work and advertise where herbicide application will occur.
The herbicide will not be applied during rainy or windy conditions, so the schedule could change depending on the weather.
“Different approaches to weed control along roads in Campbell River have included steaming, burning and scraping. Of these, scraping was the most effective, but also the most labour-intensive and most costly,” Neufeld adds. “And with limited resources and a large area where weeds need to be removed, the City’s weed scraping program did not successfully manage the problem.”
The City will schedule herbicide application for early morning hours (starting at 5 a.m.) to minimize traffic disruption, and to ensure the product is dry and considered safe before most people are out walking.
The City expects to apply herbicide twice this year in problem areas, and aims to reduce frequency of the herbicide application in future years.
| 4/15/2013 9:35 AM You asked: Spirit Square Stage Shelter
- The stage shelter is an upgrade to the original project.
- The original contractor designed and constructed a stage shelter using the existing structure and based on the design of the airport building entrance canopy.
- The stage shelter project is funded by $60,000 in surplus funds from the original project. This funding cannot be re-allocated to a project other than Spirit Square.
- The Spirit Square stage shelter project began Mar. 29 and will be completed the week of Apr. 15.
- The work includes the addition of new structural steel roof members to match the existing structure, with a glazed roof cover and necessary drainage.
- Glass roof panels are opaque to allow light through and to minimize cleaning and maintenance.
- The shelter will provide protection from the elements for stage performers and ensure that Spirit Square public events can continue in all but the worst Campbell River weather.
- The Spirit Square stage was the most important area to shelter given financial and engineering constraints.
- The installation of a permanent glass roof was considered the best option after the first three years of programming within the Square often required temporary tarps to be erected over the stage for any event during inclement weather.
- Other less expensive options were considered for the stage cover such as durable outdoor fabric material, however these options would only provide a short-term solution and a fabric cover would have to be installed and removed seasonally.
More info: Spirit Square Project - Funding
- Total cost of the project (including the stage shelter): $1,705,877
- Project awarded to: local contractor; Ketza Pacific
- The project was a partnership between the Province, the Island Coastal Economic Trust and the City, funded as follows:
- Province $457,407
- ICET $222,796
- Veterans Affairs grant $10,175
- City $1,015,499
More info: Spirit Square Project - Design
- Members of the public and various community stakeholders and committees contributed to the design process.
- The design process was led by a steering committee made up of a wide cross section of the community and several members of the Council of the day.
- The process included public open houses and written submissions from the public.
- The steering committee also consulted with the local Royal Canadian Legion branch, representatives of the Tyee Plaza and the Province’s Integrated Land Management Bureau.
- Three design options were developed and presented at the open houses with the current design being the most popular choice.
| 4/9/2013 4:48 PM Campbell River’s Energy Challenge begins!
Competition is brewing among five Campbell River families vying to reduce their power bill and get a chance to win a $1,500 home energy retrofit.
The 30 day reality-TV style video contest began Apr. 6 and has families competing to knock back energy consumption in their home, share tips with the community, and keep us all entertained with their video footage.
Contestants in the City of Campbell River and BC Hydro’s Power Down home energy challenge include the Bellwood-Behan, Klein, Loeb, Millward, and Seldon families. The families were selected by a panel of judges from BC Hydro and local media including Shaw TV, 97.3 the Eagle, and 99.7 the River.
“We watched many great interviews with Campbell River families, and it was a tough decision. We’ve selected five families that are eager to lower their monthly energy bills and inspire others to save energy by sharing their journeys, and will likely keep us entertained along the way,” says Breana Morgan, one of the Energy Challenge judges. “I’m really excited to watch the progress of each family over the 30-day period.”
Each family will film their tips, tricks and attempts to conserve energy over a 30-day period ending on May 4. Some participants have tried to save energy before, while for others, learning to turn off lights and turn down the thermostat is a whole new way of life!
“I think that it is important for my kids to learn about energy conservation at a young age, and this challenge is the perfect opportunity to teach them,” says Alana Millward, one of the Energy Challenge participants. “Who knows? Maybe they’ll become better at turning the lights off than mom and dad.”
Family contestants will be scored based on creativity, entertainment value, and their energy use over the challenge period. Video footage that each family captures will be used to make a professionally-produced film to be featured on Shaw TV, Youtube, in Campbell River schools, and at 2014 community film festivals, including the Earth Week Film Festival.
“The goal of the challenge is for people to see that saving energy can be fun, and good for the environment and our wallets,” says Amy van den Hooven, the City’s Energy Challenge Coordinator. “Approximately 23 per cent of green house gas emissions produced in Campbell River come from buildings. This initiative will help educate people about ways that they can reduce energy consumption in their homes.”
Watch the five families tell Campbell River their energy conservation stories and learn how you can reduce your monthly energy bill by visiting the Sustainable Campbell River Facebook page. People can also monitor the 30 day journey on the City’s website (www.campbellriver.ca). Go to City Hall / Departments / Sustainability / Green City
| 4/3/2013 4:35 PM What’s happening with animal control in Campbell River?
The new animal control and pound services will operate differently from the SPCA’s animal shelter. Here are answers to frequently asked questions about the changes.
What happens to impounded dogs not picked up by their owners?
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Dogs will stay at the Campbell River pound for a minimum of five days.
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Coastal Animal Control anticipates that 90 per cent of all dogs will only be at the pound facility for one or two days before being claimed by their owners.
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After five days, Coastal Animal Control has the option of transporting dogs to an adoption facility in Duncan or Nanaimo, where they have a very successful adoption rate.
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Coastal Animal Control has never euthanized an animal or had to turn away a stray for lack of space.
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Every animal that they adopt out is spayed or neutered, vaccinated and treated for parasites.
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They will not adopt out an animal that they know has caused serious injury to a human or has killed another domestic animal.
How does Coastal Animal Control care for dogs at the pound?
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Fresh water, feeding, outdoor exercise and kennel cleaning every morning.
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Dogs come back to dry kennels after exercise. Raised bedding and blankets are provided for each dog.
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Between carrying out duties in the community, the animal control officer returns regularly to the pound building and monitors dogs, filling water buckets and spot cleaning as necessary.
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Regular outdoor afternoon exercise for dogs also occurs.
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All dogs are fed a quality lamb and rice dog food and given ample attention and exercise. Any abnormality in feces, consumption of water, presence of tapeworm etc. is noted to be relayed to the dog's owner.
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Coastal Animal Control Services has excellent references from other Vancouver Island communities. For more information about Coastal Animal Control’s animal care and adoption rates, go to their website: http://coastalanimalservices.com or check out their Facebook page.
What about caring for other animals?
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Coastal will take in all pets that need shelter in the event of a fire, accident or other emergency situation – 24 hours a day.
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Like the SPCA before them, Coastal is not under contract to trap feral cats.
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People wanting to surrender animals will need to contact an animal welfare organization.
How will animal control be provided now?
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Starting April 1, call 1-888-754-1397 to report animal control concerns.
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Impounded animals are housed at the 490 Merecroft Rd. facility.
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Hours the pound is open for reclaiming animals: 4 to 5 p.m. on weekdays and noon to 1 p.m. on Saturday. The pound is closed to the public Sunday and statutory holidays.
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People should call to make an appointment to pick up their animals if they can’t attend during the regular public hours.
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Expect to see increased evening and weekend patrols in public areas that are the focus of the majority of complaints.
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Coastal Animal Control will focus on educating rather than writing tickets. They do not have a quota to write tickets, nor do they make money from writing tickets. Tickets are used as an absolute last resort in gaining compliance with the animal control bylaw.
How do I buy a dog license?
Renewal dog licenses can be purchased online at www.campbellriver.ca or in person at City Hall. New dog licenses must be purchased in person.
What’s the difference between animal control and animal welfare?
Animal control is focused on public safety, and the City of Campbell River’s animal control bylaw stipulates that dogs must be licensed and that no dogs are to be at large (off leash) anywhere in the city other than on private property or at the off-leash dog park adjacent to Penfield West Linear Park. The bylaw also addresses biting and barking and the pick-up and seizure of unlicensed, injured, surrendered, stray, dangerous, vicious or dead animals.
Animal welfare services address animal abuse and neglect. This is not part of the City of Campbell River’s animal control bylaw. Certainly, responsible pet ownership includes spaying and neutering pets. Nor does the bylaw address pet breeding. People should request animal welfare information and services through an animal welfare organization.
How can animal welfare services be provided in Campbell River?
Volunteers currently work to take care of feral cat colonies throughout the community. And some people have already been in touch with the City to offer to be involved in coordinating additional animal welfare services in Campbell River. The City encourages other animal welfare organizations and people wanting to support animal welfare services to contact us.
How do other communities look after animal control and animal welfare?
Council’s decision to have a new contractor for animal control and pound services follows the model established in most other communities, where animal control services are separate from the local SPCA branch.
A survey of 11 BC municipalities found that all other local governments use “in-house” or private contractors. Coastal Animal Control currently provides this service to the City of Nanaimo, Nanaimo Regional District, Municipality of North Cowichan, Town of Ladysmith, City of Duncan, Town of Lake Cowichan, Alberni Clayquot Regional District and the Snuneymuxw and Stz’uminus First Nations.
In some communities the SPCA branch runs animal welfare services independently from local government; in others, the SPCA is provided with land or the use of municipal buildings. In Campbell River, the City provided and offered to continue to provide the SPCA with property, building and maintenance free of charge. The City also offered the SPCA a grant worth $34,000 to continue its animal welfare work. The SPCA advised the City it would leave Campbell River.
How much does animal control cost in Campbell River?
In 2012, the SPCA was paid $167,000 to administer the animal control contract and house impounded animals. In addition, the SPCA received free use of the City-owned shelter building. The SPCA also received City support valued at almost $30,000 that included a van and other operations assistance.
For 2013, the SPCA quoted a cost of more than $246,000 for these services.
In 2013, Coastal Animal Services will provide both animal control and pound services out of the building at 490 Merecroft Rd. for $130,000.
How much do animal control and pound services contracts cost in other communities?
In the Comox Valley Regional District, the total budget for animal control is $68,200 per year, for the next three years, with $48,000 for animal control and up to $20,200 paid to the SPCA for pound services.
As of 2012, the SPCA has an agreement with the Town of Comox at $6,096/year, the Village of Cumberland at $1,200/year and the City Courtenay at $11,220/year – all for pound facilities only.
Nanaimo Regional District pays the BC SPCA $20/dog/day to accept animals at its Qualicum SPCA facility (maximum three days).
Did the City offer to support the SPCA’s animal welfare efforts?
When the SPCA turned down a $58,000 contract offer for pound services, the City encouraged the SPCA to continue operating their animal welfare services from the same location. The SPCA was asked to reserve five dog runs for impounded animals and share onsite office space with Coastal Animal Control. In recognition of community support for SPCA services, Council also offered a $34,000 grant-in-aid to assist with their animal welfare services. Unfortunately, the SPCA notified the City March 27 that they would re-locate the animals in their care and vacate the facility at the end of March.
| 4/2/2013 11:42 AM Update re: Animal Control contract
The City of Campbell River has heard concerns related to the animal control and pound services contract award and provides the following information for clarification.
The new pound services will operate differently from the SPCA’s animal shelter, and we recognize some people have concerns about the changes.
In particular, people are asking what happens to impounded animals if they are not picked up by their owners.
Coastal Animal Control has posted the following information on its website:
· Coastal Animal Control has never, nor will they ever, sell animals for laboratory research.
· They do not euthanize stray animals after 72 hours. The 72-hour period is the minimum amount of time they are required to hold a stray dog under the bylaw, after which time they become the legal guardians of impounded animals.
· Coastal Animal Control has an adoption facility and a very successful adoption rate and have never euthanized an animal or had to turn away a stray for lack of space.
· Every animal that they adopt out is spayed or neutered, vaccinated and treated for parasites.
· They will not adopt out an animal that they know has caused serious injury to a human or has killed another domestic animal.
· Their policy is to gain voluntarily compliance within the bylaws by educating rather than writing tickets. They do not have a quota to write tickets, nor do they make money from writing tickets. Tickets are used as an absolute last resort in gaining compliance.
Coastal Animal Control Services has excellent references from other Vancouver Island communities. People can find out more information about this facility, and Coastal Animal Control’s animal care and adoption rates at this link: http://coastalanimalservices.com/coastal-to-provide-campbell-river-animal-control/?fb_source=pubv1. Coastal Animal Care also runs a Facebook page featuring its community connections and adoption centre animals.
Some details re: animal control services in Campbell River:
· Starting April 1, people call 1-888-754-1397 to report animal control concerns.
· Impounded animals are housed at the 490 Merecroft Rd. facility.
· Hours the pound is open for reclaiming animals: 4 to 5 p.m. on weekdays and noon to 1 p.m. on Saturday. The pound is closed to the public Sunday and holidays.
· People should call to make an appointment to pick up their animals if they can’t attend during the regular public hours.
· People can claim animals from the pound, but they will not be able to surrender animals they can no longer care for at the pound.
· People wanting to surrender animals will need to contact an animal welfare organization.
There is a difference between animal control (ie. public safety related to barking, biting, vicious dogs and dogs at large in public areas) and animal welfare (SPCA mandate).
Animal welfare is not part of the City of Campbell River’s animal control bylaw, and the bylaw does not address pet breeding. Certainly, responsible pet ownership includes spaying and neutering pets, and people should request animal welfare information and services through an animal welfare organization.
Some people have already been in touch with the City to offer to be involved in coordinating animal welfare services in Campbell River.
Council’s decision to award the animal control and pound services contract follows the model established in most other communities.
We understand that many people support the SPCA and its role in caring for animals. We are also very disappointed that the SPCA decided to turn down the City’s offer to run the pound for $58,000 per year.
Council had hoped the SPCA would continue to operate in Campbell River, and offered the combination of continued access to the building and a $34,000 grand-in-aid in support of the SPCA’s animal welfare efforts. Unfortunately, even with an offer of $34,000 in grant funding, an amount significantly more generous than the support local SPCA branches are offered in other communities, the SPCA chose to re-locate its operations and the animals in its care.
Read a copy of the City’s news release, which includes answers to a number of questions about this issue here:
| 4/2/2013 11:35 AM FAQs re: Animal Control & Pound Services
City Council has awarded Campbell River’s pound services contract to Coastal Animal Control Services of BC after the BCSPCA turned down an offer to provide services for impounded animals at the Campbell River SPCA facility. Coastal Animal Control will house impounded animals in the building at 490 Merecroft Rd. beginning April 1.
“When the SPCA turned down a $58,000 contract offer for pound services, we emphasized that they were still welcome to continue operating their animal welfare services from the same location. We asked them to reserve five dog runs for impounded animals and share onsite office space with Coastal Animal Control,” says City Clerk Peter Wipper. “In recognition of community support for SPCA services, Council also offered a $34,000 grant-in-aid to assist with their animal welfare services, but the SPCA notified the City this afternoon that they will vacate the facility on Merecroft Rd. at the end of the current contract, March 31.”
The SPCA offered to provide pound services to the City at a cost of $95,000, while Coastal Animal Control will offer the service for $25,000.
Council set their budget for both animal control and pound services, and the SPCA quote was beyond that budget. In recognition of public support for animals and the animal welfare services the SPCA provides, the City offered the SPCA a $34,000 grant-in-aid, the difference in the budget after Coastal Animal Control is paid for animal control and pound services.
“We are disappointed the SPCA has made this decision, and it is unfortunate that this has happened on such short notice, but we respect their decision and thank them for their many years of dedicated service to the community,” says City Manager Andy Laidlaw. “Council had hoped the combination of continued access to the building and the grant-in-aid offer would have allowed the SPCA to continue to operate in Campbell River, especially because the grant funding appears to be more generous than what is typically offered to local SPCA branches by other communities.”
The SPCA has confirmed that animals in its care will be re-located to other branches this weekend, and impounded animals will be turned over to Coastal Animal Control on Sunday. People looking for animal welfare services are advised to contact the Comox Valley & District SPCA.
The Comox Valley & District SPCA phone number is 250-339-7722.
Frequently Asked Questions re: City of Campbell River Animal Control contract
What is animal control? The City of Campbell River’s animal control bylaw is focused on public safety and stipulates that dogs must be licensed and that no dogs are to be at large (off leash) anywhere in city other than on private property or at the off-leash dog park adjacent to Penfield West Linear Park. The bylaw also addresses biting and barking and the pick-up and seizure of unlicensed, injured, surrendered, stray, dangerous, vicious or dead animals.
What facilities exist to support animal control and pound services? The City owns a building and property at 490 Merecroft to house impounded animals.
How is animal control being managed in Campbell River? As of April 1, Coastal Animal Control will take over the role of education, ticketing and impoundment related to the City’s animal control bylaw.
How is enforcement changing? People can contact Coastal Animal Control with animal control complaints at 1-888-754-1397. We can also expect to see increased evening and weekend patrols in public areas that are the focus of the majority of complaints.
How will people retrieve impounded animals? Impounded animals will be housed at 490 Merecroft Rd. The pound will be open to the public between 4 and 5 p.m. weekdays, and from noon to 1 p.m. on Saturdays or by appointment only. The pound will be closed Sundays and for statutory holidays. People should call Coastal Animal Control at 1-888-754-1397 to make arrangements to pick up their pets.
What will happen to dogs not picked up from the Campbell River pound facility? Coastal Animal Services will transfer unclaimed animals to a larger facility in Duncan for adoption.
How has the SPCA been involved with animal control? Animal control services in Campbell River had been contracted to the Campbell River SPCA for approximately 30 years. Before that, a dog catcher operated a dog pound in Campbell River.
How much does animal control cost? In 2012, the SPCA was paid $167,000 to administer the animal control contract and house impounded animals. In addition, the SPCA received free use of the City-owned shelter building. The SPCA also received City support valued at almost $30,000 that included a van and other operations assistance.
In 2013, Coastal Animal Services will operate out of the building at 490 Merecroft Rd. and provide all animal control and pound services for $130,000.
Why is there a new animal control contractor? Last fall, the City of Campbell River requested proposals for animal control services. The SPCA and Coastal Animal Control submitted proposals to deliver animal control and pound services. Proposals were evaluated on experience, qualifications, training, references and cost. The SPCA submitted a price of $231,350 per year, plus 50 per cent of all dog licensing revenue ($15,000) for a total of $246,350. Coastal Animal Control submitted a price of $130,000.
In January, the SPCA quote for caring for impounded animals was almost $58,000. In March, the SPCA increased their quote for care of impounded animals to $95,000.
Council had set a maximum of $164,000 for both animal control and pound services, and awarded both contracts to Coastal Animal Services to meet budget limits. Council offered a grant-in-aid valued at $34,000 (the budget difference) to the SPCA in acknowledgment of community support for the animal welfare services the SPCA provides in our community.
How is animal control managed in other Vancouver Island communities? In most cities on Vancouver Island, animal control services are separate from the local SPCA branch. A survey of 11 BC municipalities found that Campbell River was the only local government that contracted with the SPCA for animal control services. All other local governments use “in-house” or private contractors. Coastal Animal Control currently provides this service to the City of Nanaimo, Nanaimo Regional District, Municipality of North Cowichan, Town of Ladysmith, City of Duncan, Town of Lake Cowichan, Alberni Clayquot Regional District and the Snuneymuxw and Stz’uminus First Nations.
What is the difference between animal control and animal welfare? Animal control is enforced for public safety. Animal welfare programs aim to protect animals from abuse and neglect and offer animal adoption services. Animal welfare is not part of the City of Campbell River’s animal control bylaw, and Council’s decision to separate animal control and animal welfare follows the model established in most other communities.
Who takes care of animal welfare? In Campbell River, the BCSPCA has offered animal welfare programs. In some communities the SPCA branch runs independently from local government; in others, the SPCA is provided with land or the use of municipal buildings. In Campbell River, the SPCA animal shelter was operating out of a City-owned facility located adjacent to the City’s Dogwood Operations Centre at 490 Merecroft Rd. The City provided and offered to continue to provide the SPCA with property, building and maintenance free of charge.
Where do the animals at the Campbell River SPCA come from? The local SPCA offered animal welfare services and cared for animals from Campbell River and northern Vancouver Island as well as Quadra, Cortes and Malcolm islands and Alert Bay.
According to the BCSPCA’s 2011 Annual report, the number of animals cared for at Vancouver Island SPCA branches was: Campbell River Region – 1,193, Nanaimo Region – 1,352, Comox Valley Region – 763, Cowichan Region – 741, Parksville Region – 481, Port Alberni Region – 1,005, Victoria Region – 2,223
| 3/28/2013 10:00 AM Spring yard waste collection starts April 1
The City of Campbell River’s popular curbside yard waste collection program starts again April. 1. The spring collection service will run until May 24, 2013.
“Spring is one of the peak seasons for yard waste volume generated since many residents are getting their gardens ready, doing pruning and cleaning up from the winter,” says Amber Zirnhelt, the City’s sustainability manager.
Yard waste is collected during the spring on a weekly basis on the same day as residential garbage and recycling. Unlimited amounts of yard waste are accepted as long as they are placed in a rigid lidded container no larger than 80L each (maximum 20kg/44lbs), clearly marked Yard Waste, or bags labeled as biodegradable or compostable by the manufacturer. Branches and prunings must be tied in secure bundles measuring maximum 90cm (36”) long and 60cm (24”) wide. Individual branches must not exceed 7.5cm (3”) in diameter.
Residents can also visit the free Yard Waste Drop-off centre that is open year-round (Friday to Tuesday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.). The Yard Waste Drop-off Centre is located west of the Inland Highway off Willis Road, past the Shell Station.
The Campbell River Waste Management Centre also accepts leaves and grass clippings free of twigs at no charge and charges $65/tonne for all other yard waste and woody debris.
“These three options for handling yard waste provide residents with an environmentally-friendly option for disposing of yard waste,” says Councillor Larry Samson. “We also remind residents that disposing of yard waste in nature and City green spaces is prohibited by City bylaws because it can smother and kill native plants, spread invasive species, and, on steep slopes, can lead to slope failure and erosion.”
For more information on the City’s curbside collection program, visit www.campbellriver.ca | 3/7/2013 8:35 AM Council approves in principle communications tower at Willow Point Park – Summary of public consultation requested prior to final agreement
At its Mar. 5 meeting, Campbell River City Council agreed in principle to support a license agreement to install a communications tower in Willow Point Park – pending the outcome of public consultation.
To boost poor cellular coverage in the Willow Point area, TELUS proposed the installation of a free-standing 30-metre tower in the southeast corner of Willow Point Park, north of Parkway Road. TELUS requires a fully-fenced, 300-square-metre area to house an enclosed auxiliary generator on the ground next to the tower. The available power and road access would reduce installation costs, and trees surrounding the site would minimize the tower’s appearance. The location is approximately 95 metres from the nearest residence and approximately 220 metres from the Splashpark.
Council’s final approval of the proposal will be determined after TELUS has completed a public consultation process. Public consultation for telecommunications towers and wireless antennas is mandated by Industry Canada and can take up to three months.
Read more here: Telecommunications tower agreement in principle Mar-13.pdf | 1/22/2013 9:10 AM 2013 City Budget - Frequently Asked Questions
Click on this link to review information about the City of Campbell River's 2013 budget.
| 11/22/2012 11:47 AM City hosts open house to share design drawings for St. Ann’s block project - Seen as a "catalyst" for downtown revitalization
The Campbell River Downtown Revitalization Initiative is taking a step forward. Residents are invited to view design concepts and learn more about upgrades planned for the St. Ann’s block at a public open house set for Monday, Dec. 3 at the Tidemark Theatre (3 to 7 p.m.).
This City project involves upgrading utilities and services and improving above-ground elements such as sidewalks, parking, landscaping and public space in the area of downtown bordered by Alder, Dubeau, Beech and St. Ann’s Road. Construction is expected to start in the spring. The work essentially “rings” the block currently under redevelopment by Seymour Pacific and Broadstreet Properties who are preparing to build a new office building on the site.
Click on this News Release for More Information!
Follow this project at Downtown Revitalization | 11/22/2012 11:47 AM Trouble With Street Lights?
Please notify the City's Dogwood Operations Centre at 250-286-4033 with the following information:
- Exact location, e.g. a house address
- Pole type: wooden (BC Hydro) or metal (City)
- Problem (Out? Flickering? Going on and off?)
| 9/7/2012 11:23 AM Start fall off with pottery classes!
The City of Campbell River Recreation & Culture Department is offering a wide range of pottery experiences this fall.
Our drop-in pottery studio will be open to clients who have experience working with clay starting on Friday Sept. 28 between 1 and 4 p.m. Daily drop-in cost is $6 per person.
If you don’t feel comfortable working on your own, Pottery for Everyone classes will run Thursdays, starting Sept. 27 between 6 and 8 p.m. and on Fridays, starting Sept. 28 between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. The eight-week program includes half a bag of clay. Additional clay can be purchased at $25. per bag. The cost for eight sessions is $160 or $155 for students and 50+ members.
Holiday Pottery classes will be offered on Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m., Nov. 22 to Dec. 13. No previous experience is necessary for these classes. Participant will have a choice of projects for that special Christmas gift. The cost for the four sessions is $80 or $75 for students and 50+ members.
All pottery classes and drop-in sessions are offered at the Campbell River Community Centre Pottery Studio, 401 – 11th Avenue. For more information regarding classes, please call the Community Centre, 250-286-1161, or Sportsplex, 250-923-7911.
We also offer pottery lessons for school groups and birthday parties.
Please call Linda Kubinec at 250-286-1161 to book private pottery lessons for your group or birthday parties. | 4/24/2012 8:57 AM Cycling to School is a Family Affair
Two local fathers are setting up their kids for year-round cycling to school.
Chris Flood and Tim Defert currently ride to school and back with their children from April to December.
"In all honesty, I look forward to the kids getting a little older so they can bike year round, especially given the rising price of gas,” says Defert.
Teachers have commented on how the children appeared more grounded and they concentrate better after their morning ride.
The Floods and Deferts make biking to school feel like a day in Disneyland; no one is sure who is having the most fun – the kids or the adults. And they have motivated other families to bike to school with their kids. Now, the bike racks at Willow Point School are often full year round.
To reach their school, both families have to cycle on the Island Highway.
“We still have a serious conversation around safety," Defert says.
To prepare their kids for cycling to school, the fathers say they first practice their road skills on the weekends before setting off for the first school bike trip of the year. They wear high-visibility clothing and helmets are mandatory. On colder days, warm clothing is a must, especially warm gloves.
“One cold day can ruin biking forever,” they agree.
During Bike to Work Week (May 28 to June 3), cycling to and from school counts. Form a family team and register on line at www.biketowork.ca. Encourage kids to keep track of the kilometres cycled and calculate the green house gases saved by not going to school in a vehicle.
The website also hosts cycling and safety information. Choose the Campbell River location and under “Team Leader downloads” look for the Bike Sense and Bike Smarts documents geared at kids.
For more information on BTWW contact Linda at 250-923-7911 or linda.nagle@campbellriver.ca | 4/20/2012 12:10 PM Success for a Beginner Commuter
Jen Dowler was not an experienced rider. She was a fair-weather cyclist, riding the sea walk on sunny days. She had never considered riding her bike to work.
When a co-worker signed Jen up for their Bike to Work Week team, Jen had only had her bike for a year, and she’d never ridden more than five kilometres.
How would she manage the 20km return trip? How long would it take?
Could she cycle up the Dogwood hill to Merecroft?
What about sweaty clothes? What about getting the kids to school?
The whole task seemed a little daunting. So Jen did a test run, and it wasn’t that hard.
When Bike to Work Week arrived on Monday morning, there was no snooze button. Since Jen was riding to work, her kids were riding to school. They rode three out of the five days that week, and one of her daughter’s enjoyed the ride to school so much she convinced some friends to join her.
Jen’s husband was inspired by the family’s efforts, and he too started riding to work.
When Jen gets home, her exercise is done for the day, she hasn’t used her car and she has a real sense of accomplishment. “I was not an experienced cyclist before, but now I set more goals for myself when biking,” she says.
Jen and her family kept commuting by bicycle once Bike to Work Week was over because they realized that biking to work and school is possible, and very enjoyable.
Jen Dowler’s family story is one of many successes over the last few years. Through Bike to Work Week in Campbell River, people have found a new activity and mode of transportation that is a great form of exercise and saves money on fuel.
Bike to Work Week is May 28-June 3. Sign up at www.biketowork.ca. | 4/4/2012 3:35 PM Worried about a tree damaged by winter storms?
Hazardous tree removal – the basics
With the winter storms that have pounded Campbell River this season, residents might be wondering if their trees are safe.
The City of Campbell River reminds people considering removing a tree damaged by the storms that, in some cases, permits or authorization are required before tree removal.
If you are concerned about a hazardous tree on your private property, please refer to the Sustainable Official Community Plan (SOCP), Bylaw No. 3475 (http://sustainablecampbellriver.ca/?p=633) to determine if you will require any permits or authorization before removal. The SOCP designates development permit areas to protect the natural environment and ensure that hazardous areas are not compromised.
You will require a permit or authorization from the City to remove a tree if it:
· is near to an eagle nest tree (within 60 metres); and/or
· is located on or adjacent to a slope; and/or
· is adjoining a stream (within 50 metres) or the ocean foreshore (within 30 metres).
Please see us in the Land Use Department at City Hall, 301 St Ann’s Road or call 250-286-5745 if any of the above applies to you.
If people have concerns about a tree on a road right of way or City property, they should contact the City’s Dogwood Operations Centre to have the tree added to a list for assessment.
If a tree is on private property and not within a development permit area as described above, tree retention or removal is the responsibility of the homeowner.
To find out more about tree protection and the City of Campbell River Urban Forest Management Plan, please go to our website at: www.campbellriver.ca/Residents/Greencity. | 3/27/2012 12:31 PM Lettuce Grow Film Series Continues March 29
More than 80 people attended the film “Food Security; It’s in Your Hands” on March 18. This was the first film in the free Lettuce Grow series on urban gardening, farming and food security hosted by North Island College, with support from the City of Campbell River.
Filmmaker, Nick Versteeg from the Cowichan Valley, also attended and was enthusiastic about the event. “I think the evenings that the North Island College is giving are a great step forward in our quest for better food security on the Island. Awareness of these issues is of great importance to everyone who likes to have a healthy and sustainable life. I was very encouraged by the large turnout of our film Food Security and the discussions that followed. I would highly recommend the Lettuce Grow Film Series to everyone,” Versteeg said.
Versteeg hosted a panel of speakers after the film including Ross Blackwell, City of Campbell River Land Use Services Manager; Morgan Ostler, Chair of the City of Campbell River’s Agriculture Plan Committee; and Neil Hamilton, local cranberry farmer.
Blackwell and Ostler spoke of the City’s Agriculture Plan, and how it tied in to the message of the film.
“Act small/ think big – small steps by lots of people can facilitate big change in a community,” says Blackwell. “The Lettuce Grow film series presents inspiring examples of how and why local food should be important to us all when it comes to our ‘foodshed’. The City’s new Agriculture Plan sets out a “blueprint” that can assist in facilitating a fundamental shift toward food security.”
On Thursday, March 29, the second film in the series, The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil will be shown at the North Island College theatre. In this film, Cubans share how, after the Soviet collapse, they transitioned from a highly-mechanized, industrial agricultural system to one using organic methods of farming and local, urban gardens.
After the film, Chelsea Holley, a local gardener and the driving force behind the Campbell River community gardens, will be speaking about community gardens and backyard gardening.
“I would love to see more people in Campbell River get involved in the local food growing community,” says Holley. “I will discuss ways people can do this, and the importance of seed saving, food storage and yard sharing too. This will be a great opportunity to create a list of people who are interested in staying in contact for the purpose of encouraging/helping each other as we begin to grow our gardens. After all, the best resource a gardener has is a friend with more experience!”
Two more films are scheduled, including:
Film #3 – To Make a Farm (Thursday, April 12, 7:45 p.m.)
Film #4 – The World According to Monsanto (Friday, April 20, 7:45 p.m.)
To compliment the film series, North Island College will offer a Backyard gardening and small-scale agriculture course in May, teaching participants the basics on how to grow their own food to save on their grocery bills and provide healthy food for their families.
For more information or to register online for the films or the urban gardening course, please visit www.nic.bc/continuingeducation or for further information call 250-923-9750.
| 3/22/2012 9:24 AM Eight Weeks of Spring Yard Waste Starts April 2
At its Mar. 13 Finance Committee meeting, Council made the decision to reduce curbside yard waste collection in Campbell River from eight months to four (eight weeks each spring and fall) in order to re-allocate approximately $100,000 to general operations.
Spring collection dates are Apr. 2 to May 25. Fall dates will be announced in late summer.
Council faced a difficult financial challenge and this decision attempts to balance services provided with residential taxation levels. Council felt that this service could be reduced because residents can dispose of yard waste at the yard waste drop off centre when yard waste is not collected at the curb.
“For residents unable to transport yard waste to the drop off centre, organizing trips with neighbours who have appropriate vehicles is a good option.” says Ron Neufeld, the City’s general manager of operations.
Residents are encouraged to continue to make use of back yard composting and the yard waste drop-off centre. The drop-off centre was first opened in April 2011 and has proven to be a well used service with more than 7100 visits and 350 tonnes of material deposited in 2011.
Several options were considered for service level adjustments, including switching to bi-weekly service for the full eight months. Reducing the service to eight weeks in the spring and eight weeks in the fall provided the City with the largest cost savings of all options considered. In addition, historical data shows that the peak time of year for yard waste is during spring and fall, which is why Council has elected to retain curb-side collection during these high use periods.
Campbell River’s curbside waste collection service for single family and duplex residential units
includes weekly collection of one 80-litre can of garbage (20 kg or 44 lbs weight restriction) and unlimited recyclables throughout the year, unlimited yard waste collection for four months of the year, and a free yard waste drop off centre (available for local residential users only). The yard waste drop-off centre is open year-round (Friday to Tuesday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) and is located on the We Wai Kai Nation land, west of the Inland Highway off Willis Road. For extra garbage collection, residents can purchase a $2 garbage tag, one tag required per extra can. Tags are available at City Hall, Community Centre, and the Sportsplex. | 2/3/2012 9:36 AM Homelessness Coalition Seeks Expressions of Interest
Homelessness Coalition invites pilot housing project ideas
The Campbell River Homelessness Coalition is putting out a call for project ideas that will increase adult housing opportunities in the community.
The coalition is seeking specific expressions of interest by Feb. 29 for pilot projects that would prevent and reduce homelessness in Campbell River by supporting a Housing First approach. Housing First emphasizes client choice and is based on the simple idea that housing is central to recovery from homelessness. Adults experiencing homelessness or who are at risk of experiencing homelessness have been identified as a priority need by the Campbell River Homelessness Coalition.
Expressions of interest must include:
- A brief description of your organization’s mandate;
- How your organization proposes to address one or more of the identified priority areas;
- A clear reflection of organizational partnership arrangements; and
- Plan for ongoing financial sustainability beyond a one-year funding period.
This is a call for expressions of interest only and does not require a full proposal. Expressions of interest must be typed (a minimum of two pages and a maximum of five pages).
Please send expressions of interest to the City of Campbell River, (301 St. Ann’s Road, Campbell River, BC V9W 4C7) no later than the deadline of 4:30 p.m. Feb. 29, 2012.
Information meetings to review guidelines for expressions of interest will occur:
Friday, Feb. 10, 2012 3-4:30 p.m. – City Hall Committee Room, 301 St. Ann’s Rd
Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012 7-8 p.m. – Community Centre, Room 2 (upstairs), 401 11th Ave
Read the full Expression of Interest Guidelines here:
CRHC Expression of Interest Final Document.pdf
For more information about the Homelessness Coalition:
Original Report September 2009.pdf | 1/13/2012 3:48 PM New Recreation Programs For Home School Families
The City’s recreation department is offering a whole new program package geared towards helping home school students participate in sport, recreation and art. Programs are specifically designed for school age kids, from Kindergarteners to Grade 9, and have been designed to target a variety of student interests such as pottery, sewing, cooking, family gym and all sorts of sports.
Children develop and improve fine motor skills through sewing, drawing and other activities that require physical precision. They tune up large muscle groups while running, jumping, kicking and throwing in sport and free play time activities. And they brush up social skills through cooperative play and games, icebreakers and other social interactive activities.
Dates, times and locations of programs vary. For more information, or to register, please call the Campbell River Recreation Department at 250-286-1161 or 250-923-7911.
Have a Facebook account? Find out about upcoming events and programs on the Recreation Department’s Facebook page – Campbell River Recreation.
For more details for these program or any other youth activities, please check out the City of Campbell River Recreation & Culture’s Recreation Guide, or call the Sportsplex at 250-923-7911 or the Community Centre at 250-286-1161. You can also see the guide online at www.campbellriver.ca. | 12/2/2011 2:48 PM Campbell River Agriculture Plan Recognized by Province
Mayor Charlie Cornfield and The Honourable Don McRae, Minister of Agriculture put the stamp of approval on Campbell River’s Agriculture Plan in a signing ceremony in Victoria on Nov.22 – and the Honourable Pat Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation sent a letter of recognition to the City this week.
“The agriculture plan directed by a community steering committee is the first step for Campbell River to re-think our role in the agriculture industry,” said Mayor Charlie Cornfield. “As a community experiencing an economic transition, we have an opportunity to chart a new course for economic diversity and food security by capitalizing on our significant agricultural potential.”
“The BC Job Plan considers the agrifood industry a key component for keeping people and the economy healthy in British Columbia,” said Minister McRae. “Government involvement in the agrifood sector provides a competitive advantage for overseas sales because people in other jurisdictions trust BC food products to be produced safely and responsibly.”
“Campbell River’s Agriculture Plan is part of the north island’s future economic resilience and good news for job creation, business, investment and the broader community as Vancouver Island continues to reinforce its profile as a strong regional agricultural hub in the province,” said the Honourable Pat Bell, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation.
Campbell River’s Agriculture Plan envisions the community as having the capacity to produce 10 per cent of its own food by the year 2031. The plan anticipates the agriculture sector would contribute significant value to the local economy through a robust network of farms producing a variety of healthy local food products sold fresh to Campbell River residents and businesses as well as visitors and purchasers from outside of the area.
The plan indicates farming in Campbell River would occur in diverse forms, including value-added, artisan, and niche products such as specialty cheese, dried fruit, juices or wine. Local farming would serve primarily local and regional needs and provides livelihoods for a new generation of farmers and food entrepreneurs. Farming would also provide hands-on and classroom learning opportunities for local students.
Highlights of agriculture potential in Campbell River:
· Approximately 5000 hectares of land in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) within City boundaries
· A significant amount of the ALR land in Campbell River has an agricultural capability rating of Class 1, 2 & 3 (considered prime agricultural land) – equivalent in quality to much of the Fraser Valley land
· Large areas of the community have climate, soil, elevation and face a direction suitable for growing a wide range of conventional crops such as cranberries, blueberries and grapes as well as less conventional high value crops such as shitake mushrooms and medicinal herbs like St. John’s wort.
· Attractive land costs, which makes it a great start-up location for new agricultural producers.
· For commodity transport, Campbell River is well positioned with a deep sea port, airport, proximity to the mainland ferry and Highway 19.
The City’s Agriculture Plan is available online at www.sustainablecampbellriver.ca. | 10/7/2011 3:43 PM Youth Action Committee- Call for Participants
Hey, youth! Share your ideas for your community....
Do you want to make a difference in your community? We want to hear from you!
The City of Campbell River is launching a Youth Action Committee for open-minded, innovative and motivated youth 14 and 18 years old.
The Youth Action Committee will help develop a Youth Charter and Youth Engagement Strategy for Campbell River. This is a chance to share your great ideas, voice your opinions to City Council and develop valuable leadership and communications skills. Youth will also gain valuable work experience.
“We want to hear from Campbell River’s youth about what they think is important in our community and develop a strategy so that youth can share their ideas with the City and have meaningful and ongoing participation in community initiatives,” said Meghan Lawley, Recreation Coordinator.
The committee will start off with a two-day workshop on Friday, Oct. 21 and Saturday, Oct. 22, and will then meet twice per month on Mondays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. to discuss topics important to youth in Campbell River.
Application forms for the Youth Action Committee are available at school offices, the Sportsplex and Community Centre. An application form is also be download by clicking on this link
Applications are due by Tuesday, Oct. 11 and can be submitted via email until 11:59 p.m. or dropped off during regular hours at their school office, Sportsplex or Community Centre.
Youth can email: amber.zirnhelt@campbellriver.ca or meghan.lawley@campbellriver.ca for more information or to request or submit an application form.
The City of Campbell River is launching the Youth Action Committee with staff and funding support from Sustainable Cities International. Learn more about this organization at: www.sustainablecities.net.
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Contact:
Meghan Lawley,
Recreation Coordinator
250-286-1161 | 4/29/2009 12:34 PM Water Sprinkling Restrictions
Water sprinkling restrictions are in effect year round
The Campbell River Water Regulations Bylaw No. 3216, 2006 restricts the watering of lawns as follows:
· Even numbered properties may water their lawns only on even numbered days before 7:00 a.m. and after 7:00 p.m. (midnight to 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. to midnight)
· Odd numbered properties may water their lawns only on odd numbered days before 7:00 a.m. and after 7:00 p.m. (midnight to 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. to midnight)
Be part of a water wise community. For further information regarding City water regulations please call 250-286-5745 or e-mail water.wise@campbellriver.ca
Properties requiring special consideration or additional information can also use the above contacts.
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