The City of Campbell River acknowledges that we are on the territory of the Laich-Kwil-Tach people of the Wei Wai Kum First Nation and We Wai Kai Nation.
Here are the highlights from the February 24 and 26, 2026, Council and Committee meetings, including important community initiatives and Council decisions. Watch City Council meetings live or view recordings at www.campbellriver.ca/webcasts.
Delegations
MRDT Strategic Planning Workshop with Council
Council took part in a Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT) strategic planning workshop to help shape Destination Campbell River’s next five-year strategy. The session gave Council an opportunity to discuss priorities, emerging opportunities, and key considerations for the plan. The session centred around ensuring the new strategy continues to support place-based tourism, deliver economic benefits for the community, and provide a high-quality experience for visitors to Campbell River. Council’s input will help guide the Destination Campbell River’s five-year tourism strategy and how it is put into action.
Presentation About Campbell River’s Urban Canopy
Council received a presentation from Ben Boykiw, Arborist, on protecting Campbell River’s urban canopy and publicly owned trees. Council referred the presentation to staff and directed that a report on public tree protection be brought forward for Council’s consideration.
Community Safety Update
Regional Grant Opportunity
Council authorized participating in a regional grant application to the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF) 2026 Emergency Operation Centre (EOC) program, administered by the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM). The application will be submitted in partnership with the Strathcona Regional District and other participating municipalities and First Nations to support EOC training and a regional functional exercise at the airport for City staff and partners.
Development Services Updates
Development Cost Charges Bylaw
Council heard a staff presentation on a proposed Development Cost Charges (DCC) Bylaw. DCCs are a financing tool that enables local governments to collect funds for development related capital infrastructure projects, including roads, storm drainage, sewers, water systems, parkland acquisition / park improvements and fire protection. This infrastructure is required to support new development and its impacts on municipal services. DCCs are intended to help offset the capital costs associated with growth. Following discussion and consideration of correspondence received, Council deferred the decision to an upcoming Council meeting.
Downtown Revitalization Tax Agreement for 631, 635 and 641 11th Avenue
Council authorized the City to enter into a Downtown Revitalization Tax Agreement with 1392502 B.C. Ltd. for a five-year term, commencing following issuance of an occupancy permit. An application for a Downtown Revitalization Tax Exemption has been received from Tournesol Gregory (1392502 B.C. Ltd.) for substantial interior renovation work at 631, 635, and 641 11th Avenue. The proposed improvements meet the eligibility criteria of the tax exemption program.
The Downtown Revitalization Tax Exemption program, established under Bylaw No. 3506, 2013, is intended to encourage revitalization of Campbell River’s downtown by supporting construction or substantial improvements to buildings used for multi family residential, commercial, or mixed use purposes.
The total anticipated municipal tax exemption for the property owner is approximately $24,075 over the five year exemption period, beginning after an occupancy permit is issued. This amount may be adjusted based on the timing of the occupancy permit and confirmation of the assessed value of eligible improvements by BC Assessment.
Financial Updates
Financial Support for Dog Fanciers Temporary Relocation
With redevelopment of Nunns Creek Park underway, some user groups will be temporarily displaced during construction in 2026. Council supported a $2,000 Community Grant to the Campbell River Dog Fanciers Society to assist with costs associated with relocating the event to the We Wai Kai Nation field space.
Council Approves Continued Food Security Program Funding
Council approved up to $24,000 from the Financial Stabilization Reserve to continue delivering a food security program for another two months, through to the end of April.
The City recognizes the closure of Harbourside Inn required the social services previously operating out of the building to be relocated and acknowledges that to date the groups have been unsuccessful in securing a new location. To help fill service gaps, the City has provided takeaway dinners for vulnerable community members, since July 2025, through a partnership with the Salvation Army. This program supplements the hot lunch program that is available through the Salvation Army Centre of Hope.
For details on these additional services, visit Reimagine the Row | Get Involved Campbell River.
Mayor and Council Updates
Council Flag and Proclamation Policy
Council received a report about, and adopted, the Council Flag and Proclamation Policy. The policy will clarify existing practices for flag hoisting and proclamation requests and will provide clear, consistent guidelines for City staff and community members.
Long Term Care Facility Update
The Mayor addressed the Province’s 2026 budget announcement and its implications for Campbell River. The budget confirmed a further delay to the long-term care facility previously committed to the community. The proposed 153-bed long-term care facility has been under discussion for many years and was formally committed to residents in 2023. The latest update provides no revised timeline and no clear plan to advance the project.
The City of Campbell River has consistently advocated to the Province for the timely delivery of this facility, emphasizing that long-term care capacity is an urgent and growing need. Council will continue to urge the Province to fulfill its commitment and move this project forward. The community requires certainty and timely action to ensure seniors have access to the care they need.
Downtown Vandalism Incident
The Mayor addressed an incident that occurred in the downtown core on February 24, shortly before 4 a.m., which resulted in vandalism and damage to several local businesses. The Mayor expressed strong concern regarding the impact of this incident on downtown businesses, many of which are small, locally owned operations. Council acknowledged the significant disruption and financial burden such incidents place on business owners and emphasized that this behaviour is unacceptable.
RCMP confirmed that a 28-year-old individual was arrested for mischief while attempting to return home from the downtown area on Tuesday morning. The RCMP investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information or relevant CCTV footage is encouraged to contact the Campbell River RCMP.
While recent data indicates an overall decline in property crime in 2025, Council recognized that incidents such as this highlight the importance of continued focus on downtown safety. Council remains committed to supporting downtown businesses and advancing initiatives that promote a safe and vibrant city centre.
Correspondence
55+ BC Games
Council received correspondence from BC Seniors Games Society inviting Campbell River to apply to host the 2028, 2029 or 2030 55+ BC Games. Council directed staff to review the correspondence and report back to Council.
Letter of Support for BC Association of Farmers’ Markets
Council received correspondence from Heather O’Hara, BC Association of Farmers’ Markets (BCAFM) Director, and Wylie Bystedt, Chair, BCAFM Board of Directors, requesting a letter of support for the BC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Coupon Program. Council directed staff to write a letter of support.