~~~
A very Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year! ~~~
~~~
A very Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year! ~~~
NO AGENDA till next year (comes out late Jan 10 for Jan 14 mtg)! Ccl Mtg Dec 12 was just for adoption
== Lease/Sell Survey; Vive le Canada (MP May); from the EDITOR'S DESK; UPDATES & INFO (MHall; Amb tree)
= CALENDAR to Dec 31+ - Jan 20: CULTUREWATCH (Theatre; Art; Music; Opera)
= HIGHLIGHTS DEC 10 (rushed out quasi-headsup b/c v busy as well as Mtgs/Survey)
= HEADSUP 23A (Culturewatch; M-watch; keep the tree green)
= Ccl MTG NOTES:
o Dec 3 -- Annual Reports: SAC Adv Bd and Gleneagles CC Adv Cmte; Rutledge Field seating; Gleneagles sound barrier; Budget 2013/Five-Yr Financial Plan; Arts Ctr; Amb Waterfront; PSB $$$
o Dec 10 -- Battery Recycling; BUDGET; Coach Houses; WV Florist Rezoning; Walker Bldg Rezoning (no CBs recommended!); PSB Funding; Hollyburn Lodge Restoration Funding Strategy; rest of mtg tabled to Wed.
o Dec 12 -- PSB Funding; 2013 Ccl Mtg Schedule (with Cmtes of the Whole, mtgs ev Monday!); BUDGET
= Ccl AGENDAs nope; next ccl mtg Jan 14
= ANIMALWATCH (hippos/crocodiles; eagles; otters); INFObits (Port Mann Bridge; Death by Guns); PHOTOWATCH (45 powerful images 2012); ROYALWATCH (Queen's Christmas Msg); CPTWATCH (Hebron Reflections); PEACE?WATCH (Bibi's Chutzpah); BOOKWATCH (NYT Notable Books 2012; Ms of Cats; Book News); LANGUAGEWATCH (Ithkuil); SPELLINGWATCH; PRONUNCIATIONWATCH (ooo!); WORDWATCH (ostrobogulous); HERITAGEWATCH; MAIKU; SALMAGUNDI (Christmas Story by NZ kids; Landfillharmonic), QUOTATIONS/THOUGHTS/PUNS, JOKES
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YOUR OPINION on 1300block MARINE DRIVE -- LEASE OR SALE ?
lease1300@westvan.org OR sell1300@westvan.org ?
Email your choice (above), lease or sell. If you have already done so, pls ask your family, friends, colleagues to do so.
If
we haven't lawyers/staff/personnel expert, intelligent, skilled
enough to negotiate leasing, then buy other land from the money from
the sale to replace thus maintaining our land bank assets! PLEASE,
Ccl.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
==
Vive le CANADA ===
Green Party MP Elizabeth May has just been voted Parliamentarian of the Year by her fellow MPs. She is a 58-year-old lawyer, divorced mother of one, stepmother of three, and author of seven books. This party of one works 12 - 16 hours a day, flies economy, has spent only 2/3 of her allowable personal claim, and has spoken in the Commons 146 times to Harper's 92. Absolutely incredible -- read all about her: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elizabeth_May
or read Barbara Yaffe's Dec 12 column: http://www.vancouversun.com/technology/Barbara+Yaffe+Will+Elizabeth+tireless+work+translate+into+more+Green/7689292/story.html
=== from the EDITOR'S DESK ===
Oh, as they say in the software industry (out of frustration I'm sure), there comes a time to shoot the developer and ship the product.
So here's the last newsletter of the year, cobbled together in fits and starts and with errors and omissions of course. As ever, pls point them out so the printed version and/or the version on the website is better.
My best wishes for a very merry Christmas to all of you; and then for a very HAPPY NEW YEAR.
Isn't it great to be part of this beautiful cmnty!
=== UPDATES & INFO ===
> M Hall closed Dec 21 to 31 ?
Surprised to get this notice early Sat Dec 22nd: "MHall will be closed for the holidays from Dec 21st to 31st."
Inclusive? And strange the DWV homepage dates the notice as Dec 30 at last look. Further info has been added, indicating the Hall actually closed at noon on Fri Dec 21 and now that it will be open Monday Dec 31. Go figure.
Later got two further notices (my abbreviations):
+"MHall will be closed for the holidays beginning Fri Dec 21; re-open on Mon Dec 31."
+"The MHall will be closed from Dec 21 (Noon) through to Dec 28, 2012 and will
be open on December 31, 2012. Best wishes for the season and the New Year!"
Wonder why the closure was not announced at the last reg ccl mtg (Dec 10).....
Wonder why there wasn't a single unambiguous announcement.....
Wonder why the notice did not go out as a WebAlert.....
Ah. Ours is not to wonder why.....
> Info on WV Recreation -- http://www.westvancouver.ca/Residents/Level3RecLp.aspx?id=28800
> Ambleside tree unlit
was asked why. Here's the reply from M Hall:
The motivating factor behind lighting the tree at 13th and Marine was the Ambleside Business Assn with assistance from the Fire Dept. My understanding from the Fire Dept is that part of the tree top has broken off and the tree is no longer structurally able to hold the star and lights. The tree is quite old, Dolly Cartwright mentioned that it has been there for a very long time. This year, two cypress trees were decorated on the South Lawn of the Cmnty Ctr.
> Chip Up at Amb Park entrance
Ambleside-Tiddlycove Lions Club: Jan 1 - 6; weekdays noon - 4pm; weekends 10am - 4pm; tiddlycovelions.com
=== CALENDAR to December 31st + === {Jan 20?}
All mtgs are at M Hall unless indicated otherwise. NOTE: shown are mtgs known at this date; often there are additions, changes, cancellations after WVM goes out. Check the DWV Calendar: http://www.westvancouver.ca/Calendar.aspx . Notices/mtgs/changes too
late/early for an issue are sent to subscribers. [See mtgs etc in the Headsup notices sent between issues of WVM.]
http://www.dundaravefestival.com
~ Dundarave Festival of Lights ~ December 1 to January 5 ~ Dundarave Beach ~
The True Spirit of the Season, the Best Spirit of our Community
From the exuberantly druidic steps of Morris dancing to show tunes and children's choirs, the Dundarave Festival of Lights lets the best spirit of our community blaze out in the darkest time of the year. It gathers us together as neighbours and friends in the pure joy of music. Christmas 2012 brings the Festival to celebrate West Vancouver's Centennial, offering four Saturdays of fabulously festive and free entertainment, from the Dundarave Christmas Fair on December 1st to the legendary Christmas Wassail and Bonfire Night on December 22nd. 100 trees for 100 years...... Donate!
> M Staff days off so Hall closed? See Updates & Info.
> M Facilities' hours: http://westvancouver.ca/uploadedFiles/Recreation/Schedules/WVCC%2012%20holiday%20week%201.pdf
More info from WV Rec: 2012 Fall & Winter Leisure Guide
and for a magical 2012 holiday season, see the: 2012 Holiday Happenings guide
> Park Royal's Holiday Hours
New Years Eve (Monday Dec 31) 10am 5pm // New Years Day (Tuesday Jan 1) 11am 6pm
*** POLAR BEAR SWIMS ! ***
== Sunday January 6
The Brackendale Winter Eagle count is coordinated by Thor Froslev and Nina Rytter and is conducted by trained volunteers for scientific purposes. It is not open to participation by the general public but you can go out to count eagles or enjoy the amenities of the Gallery during the day as the count is returned throughout the day.
27th Annual Brackendale Winter Eagle Festival January 2013 A Great Lineup for January!
For details on all events please go to http://brackendaleartgallery.com/Calendar.html
== Tuesday January 8 ~ 7pm ~ Upper Lands Study WG
== Wednesday January 16 ~ 4:15 pm ~ Cmnty Website Devt WG
+++ WV MEMORIAL LIBRARY +++ http://www.westvanlibrary.ca
Closed Dec 24 - 26
BEST BOOKS OF 2012
West Vancouver Memorial Library Choice Awards!
Whats the best book you read this year? Post your choice to our Art Gallery Wall display, Facebook page, or Twitter feed, and see what others have been reading. You could win an Indigo Books gift card!
Contest details: http://www.westvanlibrary.ca/index.php?page=23 The contest draw will take place Jan 2.
= ESL BOOK CLUB
Do you enjoy reading stories and wish to improve your reading and conversation skills? The ESL Book Club meets Tuesdays, 10:30 - 11:30am. Next Jan 8 to Feb 26.
= ENGLISH CORNER
If you wd like to practise English conversation -- develop skills, learn vocabulary, participate in interesting discussions, and make new friends, come on Fridays starting January 11 from 10 - 11:30am. For more info pls call Nadia Vargha Majzub at 922 5152. Facilitated by the Bahai Cmnty of WV in partnership with the Library.
= PHILOSOPHERS' CAFE
10:30 - noon Friday Jan 18 Join Moderator Randall MacKinnon on the third Friday of each month, from Sept through June for a discussion at a Philosophers' Cafe, part of SFU's Continuing Studies.
Political Fundraising Raising funds and hopes: What effect do party and special interest fundraising have on the US and Canadian democratic systems? Who benefits? Does anyone suffer? -- Admission is free; no regn required.
+++ WV MUSEUM +++ http://westvancouvermuseum.ca/exhibitions/current_exhibition 925 7295
January 16 February 23
THE EDGE OF A SHADOW -- The Paintings of Ruth Killam Massey Opening Reception January 15 at 7pm
...our earth, our land is what we should cherish most, as humans come and go, but the land stays on. -- Arthur Lismer
Like the edge of a shadow, which Ruth Massey referred to as being so eloquent, Masseys paintings express the ever-changing mood of the coastal landscape, using a distinct colour pallet and soft-edged brushwork. Hernando Island, where she had a summer home, was a favourite muse of Masseys and this is one place where her view that the expression of mood in nature through its slate of vibrant inter-relationships could be explored on the boundary between the sea and shore and the hillside and forest. Massey framed views of the ocean through piles of driftwood and windswept grasses and at times, turned her perspective inland to capture the interplay of light and shadow in the branches of a craggy tree or created by clouds passing overhead. The exhibition is a tribute and celebration of Ruth Massey (1924 2011) and the legacy she created over her lifetime.
+++ FERRY BUILDING GALLERY +++ http://ferrybuildinggallery.com ~ 925 7290
> January 8 - 20 -- Hungry Ghosts: Living in the Age of Consumerism -- Mixed Media
Opening Reception: Tuesday January 8 from 6 to 8pm = Meet the Artists: Saturday January 12 from 2 to 3pm
+++ SILK PURSE +++ http://silkpurse.ca/exhibitions/ 925 7292 -->open for contact but bldg closed for mntnce Dec 17 - Jan 8<--
> January 8 20 ~~ "Above & Beyond"
My Artists Corner [ http://myartistscorner.ca ] is a collective of artists living with mental health issues who embrace and promote art as a limitless tool for self-expression and as a vital tool for recovery. Above & Beyond explores the beauties of the natural world, specifically those linked to the theme of Galaxy. We invite viewers to linger, observe, and immerse themselves in the colours, textures, and uniqueness of each painting. The lone naked eye is not capable of seeing all of the universes bounty at once and we believe this idea can also be applied to MAC and the stigma against mental health. You cannot fully appreciate any person, place, or thing until it is given the time to be acknowledged and heard; only then will it reveal its true self.
The Opening Reception will be held Tuesday January 8th from 6 8pm
+++ KAY MEEK CENTRE +++ http://www.kaymeekcentre.com/on_stage/events_calendar
Simplest way to get on email list, call 913 3634 (also for tix) or email tickets@kaymeekcentre.com
THEATRE K MAINSTAGE
Henry and Alice: Into the Wild
Produced in partnership with the Arts Club Theatre 8pm January 10, 11, & 12
The hilarious sequel to Sexy Laundry
Those crazy kids from the Arts Club's smash hit Sexy Laundry are back! And this time Henry and Alice are camping - sort of! Forced to examine their relationship in the tangle of the wilderness - including collapsing tents, uninvited guests, and their own particular style of alfresco "cuisine" - they just might discover how to survive a true mid-life crisis.
Rated: PG 13 some language and situations Tix: Adult $43 | Senior $39 | Student $24
$5 Valet Parking is available for this performance at the 15th & Mathers Avenue entrance.
+++ ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION BRANCH 60, West Vancouver +++ http://www.westvan60.com/
Office: 922 3587 Lounge: 922 1920 Fax: 922 2659
Monday December 31st: HAPPY NEW YEAR! *Champagne at Midnight*
7pm -- DANCE the night away with the John Shields Band
+++ WV CHAMBER of COMMERCE + 926 6614 + http://www.westvanchamber.com
The Chamber's Annual Mayor's Reception, Hollyburn Country Club -- 6 - 8pm Thursday January 24
=== CULTUREWATCH ===
* THEATRE
+ ARTS CLUB -- 687 1644 http://www.artsclub.com
~ Granville Island Stage: Ride the Cyclone by Brooke Maxwell and Jacob Richmond Philip; Jan 17 - Feb 16
+ METRO THEATRE 266 7191 metrotheatre.com
Mother Goose by Johnny Duncan, various times from Dec 14 to Jan 5
Written in the true panto tradition with evil (Demon Distastely) and good (Fairy Nerd), heckled and cheered by the children, with good always coming out on top.
+ JERICHO ARTS CENTRE http://www.jerichoartscentre.com/
Queer Arts Society presents The Gay Mafia
Directed by David C. Jones; Starring Pearce Visser; Featuring The Bobbers
Things are going to get fabulously nasty as the Gay Mafia is thrown into turmoil when The Don announces his intent to step down. The Gay Mafia is a wildly fun and unpredictable comedy with music!
A popular late night hit in 2007 at the Waterfront Theatre the show has been expanded and now stars the award winning queer comedy troupe The Bobbers. Check out their website at www.queerarts.ca
"Back in 2007, we were a small group of queer identified improvisers just trying to get some stage time. Since then we have played a festival across BC, had a TV series on Out TV and won an award from Xtra West for Best in Entertainment." says artistic director David C Jones.
Popular improvisational artist and Artistic Associate Director at the Vancouver TheatreSports Pearce Visser plays the Don and every performance features a diverse collection of six members. Only a battle of wits and timing will determine the winner.
8pm Weds Jan 2 - Sat Jan 12; Preview: Jan 2; Note: No evening performance on Sunday Jan 6
Sunday Family Matinée: 4pm Jan 6; Tix $12 ($2 of every ticket donated to Out In Schools)
Tix: $20 ($15 concession); call 224 8007 x 3
+ WATERFRONT THEATRE
~ The Wizard of Oz www.carouseltheatre.ca (no times given) Dec 7 - Jan 6
~ Canadian Improv Games improv.ca/regions/lm-bc Jan 14 - 27
+ FIREHALL ARTS CENTRE 689 0916 firehallartscentre.ca
Medicine by T J Dawe; (varying times) Jan 3 - 13
+ SFU Woodward's sfuwoodwards.ca
Here be Dragons Jan 10 - 12; various PuSh festival productions; pushfestival.ca Jan 15 - Feb 2
+ THE CULTCH 251 1363 thecultch.com
DON JUAN by Moliere; Blackbird Theatre; 8pm (plus matinees) Dec 26 to Jan 26
* ART
+ VANCOUVER ART GALLERY http://www.vanartgallery.bc.ca/events_and_programs/calendar_of_events.html
Coming Exhibitions: for details: http://www.vanartgallery.bc.ca/the_exhibitions/upcoming_exhibitions.html ]
~ NB: VAG Mbrs receive 20% off admission to the Royal BC Museum in Victoria when you show your Gallery Mbrshp card.
For more info contact Member Services at membership@vanartgallery.bc.ca or 604 662 4711.
EXHIBITION James Hart: The Dance Screen (The Scream Too) -- November 2012 to January 2014
In late 2009, artist James Hart began designing this large-scale sculpture and began carving the work in 2010. This ambitious project brings together many of the principal animal figures from traditional Haida stories, especially creatures that depend on salmon for their survival. Read more: http://www.vanartgallery.bc.ca/the_exhibitions/exhibit_hart.html
* MUSIC
+ OPERA PRO CANTANTI procantanti.com at Cambrian Hall
Norma by Donizetti, 7pm Sunday Jan 6; Nabucco by Verdi, 7pm Jan 13 and 20
+ VANCOUVER OPERA SOCIETY vancoco.ca
Die Fledermaus by Strauss, Hyatt Hall (843 Seymour); Jan 4 and 5
+ EARLY MUSIC VANCOUVER 732 1610 http://www.earlymusic.bc.ca/CA-CalendarOfEvents.html
o Festive Bach Cantatas for Christmas -- The Bach Cantata Project: the tradition continues
Sunday afternoon 3pm Dec 23 at the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts at UBC ~ Marc Destrubé, music director
o Molti Strumenti: Baroque Concertos for Strings & Winds [Victoria Baroque Players]
January 11 Friday 8pm | pre-concert introduction at 7:15 -- Christ Church Cathedral, downtown Vancouver
o Perchance to Dreame: The Golden Age of English Music
January 18 Friday 8pm | pre-concert introduction at 7:15 -- Christ Church Cathedral, downtown Vancouver
January 20 Sunday 3pm | pre-concert introduction at 2:15 -- Kay Meek Centre Studio Theatre, WV
+ VANCOUVER SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA ~ Info on the season: http://www.vancouversymphony.ca
o Salute to Vienna ~ 2:30pm Tuesday January 1 at the Orpheum ~
The Strauss Symphony of Canada with the VSO -- Dancers from the Vienna Imperial Ballet (Austria)
Welcome the New Year with Salute to Vienna, patterned after Viennas world famous Neujahrskonzert, returning for a glorious 18th season with a fresh, new program. A festive New Years concert, featuring a brilliant new cast of musicians from the VSO, and stellar European singers and dancers in beautiful costumes. A light-hearted blend of popular Strauss waltzes, polkas, and famous operetta excerpts from Die Fledermaus, The Merry Widow, and more - something for everyone to enjoy! For more info, pls visit www.salutetovienna.com.
o The Sensational Midori! ~ 8pm Sat Jan 12 and Mon Jan 14 at the Orpheum ~
Repertoire -- Wagner: Tristan und Isolde: Prelude & Liebestod;
Shostakovich: Symphony No. 1 in F minor; Brahms: Violin Concerto in D Major*
Midori* captivated the world as a child prodigy unlike any other. Now and an artist of sublime maturity, she makes her long-awaited return to the VSO to perform the Mount Everest of violin concertos.
+ Vancouver International Song Institute
Winterreise: Winter Journey
Wednesday, January 2 at 7:30pm Roy Barnett Recital Hall, UBC School of Music (6361 Memorial Rd)
Immerse yourself in Schubert's monumental song cycle performed by Early Music Vancouver favourite Colin Balzer, tenor and Erika Switzer, piano with commentary by Dr. Richard Kurth.
Tickets $20 at www.brownpapertickets.com.
Please join me at Schuberts monumental song cycle Winterreise Winter Journey performed by two celebrated UBC alumni home from Augsburg and New York for the holidays.
Colin Balzer, tenor maierartists.de/colin-balzer-en.html ; Erika Switzer, pianist erikaswitzer.ca
Schuberts Winterreise is a masterpiece and this is an excellent opportunity to hear two wonderful artists -- both are very talented musicians making names for themselves throughout Europe and North America. And they both began their formal training at UBC!
I hope you will join us at this very special event, the proceeds of which will go to support the student scholarship fund for the 2013 VISI summer institute. It will be a very special occasion.
To learn more about Winterreise read at
Lloyd Burritt
+++ HEADSUP SECTION +++
>>> NB: if you subscribe, these come out before events; put in WVM later
=== HIGHLIGHTS -- of Dec 10 ccl mtg +
Herewith:
1. Mtg info in case you're interested and wd otherwise miss something. Someone's got to take some interest and/or responsibility for the DWV Calendar -- the residents' guide to being informed and involved.
2. NSh Health Survey
3. Ccl mtg tidbits (and mtg added 10am Wed Dec 12th originally for adoption of the budget but since ccl mtg adjourned before all agenda items completed and one had been deferred to Dec 12th). Interesting juxtaposition that one motion (about a small increase in FAR) refers to $750K for CAC, an another (from 1.44 to well over 2.0) recommends paying nothing.
and
of course: Qtn/Tht/Pun {moved to end of newsletter}
PS -- just in re KMC A Cottage Community Christmas 8pm THURSDAY December 13
Features a special pre-show performance by The Gleneagles Ch'axáý Elementary School Choir.
$5 Valet Parking for this performance is available at the Mathers Avenue Entrance and the WVHS book Cottages to Cmnty will be on sale at KMC this month while the play is on.
-1-
> First, reference was made to the Upper Lands Study Review's first mtg -- today at 7pm at the Hall (it only appeared on the DWV Calendar sometime on Monday so I asked if there were guidelines as to how long before a mtg it shd appear so residents know when a mtg is; not enough just to say mtgs are open to the public).
> Although the October mtg of the Website Devt Grp was on the Calendar, the Dec 6th one was not (and still isn't when I looked just now). Mbrs not on its webpage; a second consulting company referred to by CC in Reports not mentioned anywhere on the whole DWV website; at least they've changed the name.
> And the TransLink mtg today isn't on the Calendar either! So, in case you're on the route and you're interested:
from: http://www.westvancouver.ca/Level3.aspx?id=41946
TransLink Open House to discuss proposed route changes to 251 and 252 buses
December 11 2012 TransLink is hosting an open house to discuss proposed route changes to the 251 and 252 buses that would reroute and convert them to two-way service with connections to the higher frequency 250.
Where: West Vancouver Memorial Library, Welsh Hall When: Tuesday, December 11 from 4 7:30pm.
More Information: http://v.gd/translink & http://v.gd/251_252
-2-
North Shore Survey - Vancouver Coastal Health
{ from: http://www.westvancouver.ca/Level3.aspx?id=41702 }
Vancouver Coastal Health is asking residents of North and West Vancouver, Bowen Island, and Lions Bay to fill out a survey, either in person at public sites with our surveyors, or online here, between Nov 23 and Dec 16.
Questions [center] around household characteristics (food security, dwelling type), neighbourhood characteristics (community belonging, transportation), socio-demographic characteristics (employment status, ethnicity), individual health and wellness (stress levels, mental health issues). Results will be used to tailor health services for local residents so that we can ensure they are getting the services they need most.
People who complete the survey will be entered in a draw for prizes such as an iPad.
-3- North Shore Survey | Vancouver Coastal Health
WV COUNCIL MTG LAST NIGHT (Dec 10)
= Agenda was amended to add 15.1 (but mtg didn't go that far)
= Interesting delegation (with slides) from WVSS Recycling Club re Battery Recycling Program
= in Reports:
TP: Upper Lands mtg tomorrow {listed above}; Library Xmas hours extended
CC: encouraged public to attend Website Devt mtgs {see above; wasn't on Calendar}
NG: looking fwd to staff report on well-attended HBay Spirit Trail consultation; Sop will be LCAC ccl liaison next year
ML: M&Ccl hv bn invited to a Menorah lighting ceremony on Wed at 6pm
MAB: Ch of Commerce
Sop: Operation Red Nose
Mayor: enjoyable Christmas lunch at Srs' Ctr last Saturday
= DVP 6298 Wellington increased roof ht (b/c of a 'mistake') approved by Ccl (whereas denied by BoV b/c not a hardship)
Sop, such a wag, suggested someone give the architect a tape measure.
{Wish I had a nickel for every 'mistake' that resulted in more height or whatever. One of the funniest was a well-known architect who said he 'forgot' the elevator equipment on the roof wd mean a height higher than permitted.}
= Michael Koke, now Acting CFO b/c Nina goes on leave Jan 1st for nine months, gave an overview of the process for Budget 2013 wch received three readings (and will be adopted at the special mtg 10am Wed Dec 12). Sop asked questions about the Endowment Fund; other Ms looking at our Asset Mgmt; TP and NG referred to the commitment to a zero prop tax rate increase (kept); the Mayor quoted Bob Dylan: there's a hard rain a-comin'
= The Coach House Discussion Paper outlined process including a survey the Cmte of the Whole mid-2013; discussion ensued with questions about other options, Sop suggesting a referendum b/c it will affect all residents (and some wll be unhappy at the change), others disagreed.
{At PQP I (WVM) offered to hold a mtg (in cooperation/coordination with other groups) to explore options and get input, and suggested if the 'diversity' was planned for certain areas and the rest left with their sgl-fam character/choice, it wd lessen alarm across the M and a referendum not needed.}
= Rezoning Application for WVFlorist: a bit complicated. A change in zoning in 2008 (from C2 to AC2) altered the FAR allowed; now to go from 1.75 to 2.0 may require a $750K Cmnty Amenity Contribution. Architect Karl Gustavson argued cd be accomplished without an OCP amendment. The Mayor (quite rightly) recalled the owner objecting at the time. CC asked what the diff in land value wd be from present to 2.0 but KG said he was not prepared to answer that but said Grosvenor was proposing 3.0. A claim was made that not going above 1.75 made Amb not economically viable hence the problems for biz there. MAB said in anticipation of higher going to be allowed, it does not encourage investment (or upkeep) and many are on six-month leases. Staff explained first reading so that a PH can be held Jan 21.
= The recommended motion saying CAC wd not be required for the expansion of, increased density, of the Walker Bldg at 1455 Bellevue took almost an hour and then was tabled. G Pajari walked through the regulations explaining that (given the Uplift) a Cmnty Amenity Contribution shd apply although they have a formula for residential and a lower one for a combination of residential with commercial. Amazingly, a couple of cclrs said b/c absent/omitted it didn't apply (intentional or oversight?) and even to pass it, and 'maybe' the owner wd provide some in-kind amenity later. Former cclr Shannon Walker touted the increased biz activity that wd result.
Strange no one complained about the resulting lack of parking.
MAB hit the nail on the head: if allowed, if the case, staff wd hv gone ahead and not come to Ccl with this recommended motion.
I was sitting there thinking of the precedent.
After hearing the uncertainty in cclrs' comments, the Mayor made the sensible suggestion it be tabled (and staff come back with information/a report). Will be on the ccl mtg agenda in Jan (14 or 21).
= Another hot item: the PSB. Although a comprehensive explanation and several steps in the motion, there were many questions, in particular from CC. I just asked if Ccl still had options wrt 1300blk (Mayor said yes). G Pajari made some pertinent comments. The item was deferred to the Wed morning ccl mtg -- to CC's frustration b/c he has a legal hearing then (he's a lawyer) that morning.
{I'd guess that with only a simple adoption intended he felt he cd miss, but now that agenda will have something he has strong views on, he'd want to go. The Mayor said they'd talk about it off-line; I wrote after the mtg that unless critical for the budget, just table it again, but to the first mtg in Jan, the 14th.}
Let's see what happens.
= Earlier the Mayor had announced he wd not go beyond 10pm but then stated since the folks for the Hollyburn Lodge Restoration had been waiting all evening, shd have that item. Brent remarked that some felt after waiting 20 years, three hours wasn't much (and wd be worth it). Some concern about funding from CC and ML but after debate finally passed.
{and of course I'm a supporter of restoring this heritage asset, the only surviving ski lodge on the NSh.}
= The Mayor was kind enough to allow me to speak at PQP (signed up at the beginning) and then Scenery Slater who then indicated she wanted to speak.
Briefly (omitting a couple of points b/c mtg in effect over), besides what I referred to earlier, I asked b/c of some anomalies wrt the Website Group (last mtg not on Calendar, names not on webpage, no mention anywhere of a second consulting company though CC referred to one, etc); congratulated re Budget, and wished Merry Christmas.
Scenery asked about a balloon or pole showing height of Grosvenor's proposal; Mayor said re pole they were deciding who wd hold it.
{UPDATE: At the DRC mtg, a mbr pointed out although said to be an eight-storey bldg, b/c of higher than normal ceilings, the proposed building is the equivalent of 12 storeys}
= Rest of agenda dropped; presume continued on Wed or waiting to Jan 14.
NB: rushed to get this out asap to you so: E&OE
=== HEADSUP 23A: This Weekend + Tidbits -- 15 December, 2012 3:30:53 AM PST
{compiled Th/Fr Dec 14}
A little over-loaded with three ccl mtgs in ten days plus a Design Review Cmte on Grosvenor and Walker Place.
Some imminent events, WV tidbits, Fire Safety, with Qtn/Tht/Pun at end. WVM shd come out next week with the three transcripts.
Christmas shopping with extended hours and even free valet parking at PkR. Patronize your local shops too! Good time to take note and tell Ccl where more parking is needed so most convenient for you.
CULTUREWATCH
Vancouver Welshmen's Choir Christmas
Dec 14 Friday 8pm at Centennial Theatre 984 4484 or centennialtheatre.com
KMC -- A Cottage Cmnty Christmas
Dec 14 Friday 8pm, Dec 15 Saturday 2 and 8pm; WVHS's book on sale at KMC
Dundarave Festival of Lights
see full details: http://www.westvancouver.ca/Level3.aspx?id=23044
Tomorrow Dec 15 Saturday 12:30pm
Hear the Pacific Spirit Choir spreading Christmas cheer singing in the rain at the foot of 25th in Dundarave
-- carol sheets for you to sing along!
Gingerbread House Decorating
Dec 15 Saturday 11am - 2pm -- PkR South, Ctr Court
Santas helpers will host our second gingerbread house decorating session; show off your decorating skills.
FREE Be sure to arrive early, as there are only 300 gingerbread houses available.
The St Roch II -- Dec 16 Sunday 2pm Talk and Book launch, presented by RCMP Inspector Ken Burton
at the Maritime Museum 257 8300 vancouvermaritimemuseum.com
Laudate Singers
Dec 16 Sunday 2pm (St David's United, WV) and 4pm (St Andrew's United, NV) laudatesingers.com
Sleeping Beauty -- Hendry Hall until Dec 16 northvanplayers.ca
Lions' Gate Sinfonia -- Dec 17 Monday 7:30pm; Sinfonia's Suite Christmas with guest host Jurgen Gothe
and dancers from Pro Arte at Centennial Theatre 984 4484
Musica Intima
Dec 17 Monday [no time given] "Home for Christmas" at WV United, 731 6618 musicaintima.org
also on Friday Dec 21 at Christ Church Cathedral
Dear Santa -- Vagabond Players (521 9412) are putting on this Norm Foster play
at the Bernie Legge Theatre in New Westminster until Dec 23;
A Child's Concert in Wales Concert -- PAL Theatre (685 9930) palvancouver.org until Dec 23
MUNICIPALWATCH
>>> As you know, the Dec 10 mtg was terminated before completing the agenda. The rest was done Wed morning (Dec 12); all passed including the adoption of the Budget (Five-Year Financial Plan) after a citizen's questions and input including echoing Ccl Cameron's concerns expressed on Monday night (but he was not able to attend the Wed morning mtg).
>>> The Design Review Cmte mtg on Th Dec 13 went from 4pm to almost 9pm! Fascinating. Only three items on the agenda. No surprise Grosvenor's proposal (1300blk) took the longest (over two hours?), then the expansion of the Walker Building (called Walker Place), followed by infill at 2074 Fulton (Hollyburn Mews the precedent). It was very informative and interesting hearing comments and suggestions by such professional ppl (mbrs).
KEEP THE TREE GREEN (courtesy of Fire Dept)
December 14 Pass by any West Vancouver fire station in December and youll notice a prominently displayed Christmas tree out front. These trees go beyond typical holiday decorating they are part of the "Keep the Tree Green" campaign, which is designed to remind people about fire safety during the holidays.
The campaign kicked off December 1 and runs through New Year's Eve. For each day without a fire, an ornament will be hung on the trees; on days with fires, no ornament will be hung. A holiday season without any fires would translate to 31 ornaments on the trees. The visual effect of the trees is to make the public aware of the need for good fire safety during the holidays.
The potential for fire increases over the holidays as people typically spend more time indoors celebrating the season with candles, lights, and decorations.
To prevent a holiday fire this year, firefighters recommend these tips:
· Decorate with flame-retardant or non-combustible materials.
· Ensure that candles are located well away from combustible materials. Never use candles to decorate a Christmas tree.
· Wrapping and decorations can be highly combustible and should be kept away from heat sources.
· Discard gift wrap/boxes with garbage, recycle where appropriate; do not burn them (or trees) in the fireplace.
· Use only those lights which have been tested and labelled by an approved testing laboratory.
· Dont overload electrical circuits or extension cords.
· Always turn Christmas lights off before leaving home or going to sleep.
· Be sure to buy a fresh Christmas tree. Water it daily, discard it* as soon as it appears dry or as needles begin to drop.
If you have any questions about the campaign, please call West Vancouver Fire & Rescue at 925 7370 or e-mail your questions tomjames@westvancouver.ca.
File Photo Attached {removed from newsletter}
Photo cutline: Lieutenant Marcia James, Inspector Brian Stopfer and Captain Geoff Graham of WVs Fire Prevention Team wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season.
{* hey, why not buy a live tree and plant it? your place or a park (w/ permission or along the hwy)?}
=== COUNCIL NOTES Regular Mtg Monday December 3 ===
{best efforts! time stamps so you can listen to that part of the actual mtg if you want. }
7:00 PM
1. Call to Order.
2. Approval of December 3, 2012 Regular Council Meeting Agenda
adding November 19, 2012 Council meeting minutes to Item 3;
adding to Item 10, [5-Year] Financial Plan Bylaw No. 4743, 2012;
adding to Item 18, Item 18.2
3. Adoption of November 19, 2012 Meeting Minutes -- Minutes to be provided on Friday, November 30, 2012.
Nov 19, 2012 special ccl minutes and that the regular ccl minutes be withdrawn and be presented at the Dec 10 mtg
REPORTS [7:04]
4. Reports from Mayor and Councillors on Boards, Committees, and Working Groups
Mayor: start by thanking the Lee Family
Lily Lee Spirit Room; Bob Lee, made a generous donation to the Cmnty Ctr
awaiting erection of the sign
Sop: last Friday, start of first night of Operation Red Nose by Rotary
I'll be doing my duty for Ccl including NYEve
MAB: finance symposium
discussion highlight of the day
17 speakers, 16 were [men]; suggest have more balanced
ML: Metro Region Finance symposium
last Saturday Mayor and xxx decorated tree in Dundarave
magnificent display by many groups
TP: Spirit Trail workshop Wed Dec 5 from 6 to 8:30, coming out West, HBay
CC: won't repeat Fin Symposium, save my comments
NG: LCAC six residents; look at homes
feedback, approve or not to keep that nbrhd in same character it is; two in last two weeks; six applications
thank you to those mbrs esp to Jim Carter; diff to keep things on track
a great cmte to work with
myself MAB TP to NV ? hall wrt proposal NSh-wide food network: local food charter
Mayor: thank Barbara Brink; arranging that from the Lee family, hope will be repeated
[7:10]
5. Development Variance Permit Application No. 12-042 (2115 Inglewood Avenue) (File: 1010-20-12-042)
PowerPoint presentation to be provided.
At the Nov 5 reg mtg Ccl rec'd the report dated Oct 25 re this DVP Applic and set the date for consideration for Dec 3.
Reports received up to and including November 29, 2012:
|
NAME: |
DATE: |
FOR COUNCIL CONSIDERATION: |
# |
|
Development Variance Permit No. 12-042 (2115 Inglewood Avenue) |
October 25, 2012 |
November 5, 2012 / December 3, 2012 |
R-1 |
Written Submissions received up to and including November 29, 2012: None
GB: DVP for prop on SLIDE; indicates variances
understand Ccl's monitors are not working so you've been supplied with copies
odd shape of parcel {it's a triangle}
setback variances eg one requires 3m and asking for 1.8m
applicants here if questions
PRESENTATION BY APPLICANT
CALL FOR PUBLIC INPUT -- none
NG: top of p 2, raised mgmt plan
this home was not going to be targeted 50% waste reduction
something we're hoping support and why are they not meeting that?
GB: a target we presented; a package we're supporting
Metro reqmts; this is a target.
MOVED: THAT all written and verbal submissions be received for information.
THAT the DVP to allow for the construction of a new two-storey house with basement, be approved.
CARRIED
Mayor: Ccl monitors are not working so will have to make do?
Sop: why?
Mayor: they're not working
Sop: shd know why
Mayor: technical glitch
Sop: xxx [7:15]
6. 2012 Seniors' Activity Centre Advisory Board Annual Report and 2013 Work Plan (File: 0115-20-SACA1)
PowerPoint presentation to be provided.
RECOMMENDED: THAT the report dated Nov 15 from the Mgr of Cmnty Recreation, be received for information.
AMooi: introduce Mr Brian Hahn and our Jill Lawlor
BH: SLIDES
adjusted our mbrship expiry date to {annual anniversary, ie not calendar year to Dec 31st}
3500 mbrs, 72% live in WV; 15% xxx
fastest age group growing is 55 to 64
23,000 bowls of soup last year
reputation for keeping seniors active; 1700 participants in fitness [more on SLIDE]
900 progs offered throughout the year: billiards to card games; always something for everyone
challenge to meet needs of challenge in demands; upgraded the mission statement
special events for mbrs' 100th birthdays (one last week, a couple next year)
flea market the major fundraiser; will be held in April
fraud seminar; intimidating to go down to police stn so now can come to Srs' Ctr for service enhancement
work with Sch Dist; sch choir coming next week
launching an info campaign
re board: we have ten applications for three positions this year
Cclr X: Q xxx parking, mbrs?
BH: cd handle another 1000
three cycling groups and need to add another one
BH: HSch students; write stories
MAB: xxx; thx
Sop: I'm too young to go there of course
CC: how many mbrs?
[7:27]
7. Gleneagles Community Centre Advisory Committee 2012 Annual Report and Work Plan (File: 0116-20GCCAC)
PowerPoint presentation to be provided.
Mayor: don't think mic is picking up v well
{Susie who?}
SLIDES wd like to share our plans
grown to 18 mbrs [listed]
western civic site
officially announced as a cmte of Ccl earlier this spring
great family and youth progs
dance club for youth, grades 6 and 7; Gr 8 dance in Sept; Family Fun night
need for a cmnty garden; opened on Earth Day
ten yrs old in 2013; planning
thank Ccl for their support and Cclr Lewis as its rep
Sop: always intrigued with events that go on out there
do you feel out there that you're out of place?
Ans: don't know what you mean
Sop: isolated
speak for entire WV
Ans: don't feel we're isolated get some mbrs xxx
other Ans: attract kids from across M to dances
nbrhd plus outreach
wd like to invite you out some time ---
TP: xxx; just outstanding; excellent; taking ownership; youth focus has been fantastic
these cmnty ctrs do work and build on one another
CC: I live a block from here
go to pottery classes out there, and kids
a few family nights; xxx
touch on notion a white elephant
in the early years, attendance was lower
describe your prog and services are
both cmnty ctrs generate large $ from their progs
Ans: a lot of growth; Susie said xxx
also great success with with weight progs
great success family progs -- 200
drop of kids and they go out to dinner
CC: you'd like more out there?
X: always room to grow
MAB: access by youth to cmnty ctrs, huge support; access to two cmnty ctrs is fantastic
have you found transportation is an impediment?
Ans: progs with Gleneagles Elem Sch so latch-key progs, just walk over
some partnership progs, carpool from other schools and come over
pick up from Srs' Ctr
ML: hard to believe ten years; just remember it being built and the controversy
you talking about the ctr, the evolution of the ctr; thank all the ppl on the board
with the biz assn, the linkage to the golf course and Larsen Stn; clubhouse, recent renovation
date night
the skateboard park -- probably the best on the NSh
work has been excellent; my pleasure, thank you for coming
THAT the report dated Nov 15 from the Mgr of Cmnty Recreation, be received for information.
Mayor: am sure looking forward to visit from xxx
8. Rutledge Field Spectator Seating Proposal Update (File: 2160 03 AMBL1 09)
Presentation to be provided. [7:39]
AM: fully funded by Field Hockey Club; max of 300 spectators SLIDE
Supported by DRC; open house, info in NSN; letters to residents in the area
needs approval from Ccl; {staff} Ian Haras and John Wong here to speak/answer questions
Sop: a phased situation? covers come later?
Ans: CORRECT
Sop: four pillars standing
Ans: covers support the roof; final still has to be worked out
Sop: concrete and some storage
DRC reported weak/will leak; told things put there no problem; ... water?
Ans: wrt structure/storage, intent kept away from elements; not waterproof
hidden from view, the intent
CC: Qs from ppl who have written in; good to have them aired and addressed in public
xxx; query, longer comment period rather than just a week; has come up before
two or three weeks
advertising to pay for this, seat sponsorships; advertising signs?
Tim Harrington from Field Hockey: volunteer, been involved since 2007; passion about that; now following through with the icing on the cake
advertising not the word; looking for signif donors; plaque to acknowledge donors
naming rights same mold {*see LANGUAGEWATCH below} as established with the field itself
wdn't call it advertising, call it recognition
roof is not designed; columns chosen b/c versatile, open to options [7:46] that's why chosen
more cost effective to do it at this stage
re leaking, we're trying -- storing nets, cones, items to keep the field clear
don't want uniforms to be stored there; bone dry is not what we're looking for
CC: not large advertising signs, ackn ppl who'd donated, small plaque
TH: acknowledge who's been involved
CC: intention to have much larger events; 300 large capacity -- much larger events?
TH: v glad you asked that question; why the drive and desire
since 2004, NSh HSchs have won [7:48 to get numbers]
xxxxxx 4 Collingwood
an average of five NSh players have received scholarships
at least 12 to 15 playing for Cdn universities
six players on the 'nation' players and the jr nine
these players all started and honed their skills in WV
reason we were able to raise $1.5M and donors for the spectator seating -- a reward so ppl/donors have a place to watch
yes, we are hoping to host a provincial
quite exciting; crowd usually 300 ppl
good chance a local team will prevail; not had an opp to host one yet; a cpl of exhibition plays on our field
our field is top class and one of the top in Canada
not going to be happening ev weekend, but once or twice a year, see it as positive
ppl come, stay, go shopping -- what's wrong with a bit of fun
CC: so your answer is yes; sorry, I'm a lawyer, want to make sure
Now, why concrete? permanent and inflexible; not environmentally desirable as a metal structure
TH: certainly durable; no mntnce; metal you have to paint
v flexible, more so, than steel; designers have done a nice job
CC: can't move it
TH: that's the intent; want to be there for a while; wanted secure storage
steel cd hv bn an option; wd hv been more costly, has to be custom-made; warm suitable place; the two effective
DRC had similar questions but in the end found it was interesting and well done
think it was the right decision for mntnce and cost; we can manipulate it
NG: seating structure is 89ft long 22xx 9ft hi ... not to exceed 4?m -- wch
Ans: 2.4 metres high
NG: so 9ft
TH: had xxx; more storage underneath; less ht, less impact; was lowered to seven rows
the 2.8m, the fence is 3.6m hi so structure was [7:56]
NG: you're confirming max 9ft high?
TH: sure, that's accurate
IHaras: doesn't include the columns
NG: I too have concerns about the concrete and non-permanent
concrete one of the more unfriendly materials we cd build with, eg wood
TH: not true, they recycle concrete now
Mayor: those comments if and when we get a motion on the floor
ML: I too think this is a fairly hideous xxx [7:58]
xxx; what started out was quite attractive;
not sure I like corrugated metal roofs; shd hv bn glass
look at this concrete thing waiting to/for tagging on a Sat eve; think you cd do a better job
what Amb xxx
it's a mini Swangard; not attractive; don't want to see this walking along; can do a better design job
echo comments from others; not v creative
showed great creativity putting this together
lose if not %x? [8pm]
MAB: note time pressure re funding
TH: am optimistic funding will not be an issue
but it's taken, well started in 2011; will be confirmed before moves forward
model for the turf field, demonstrating funds there; confident same process will be worked out with staff
until we know what we're doing, hard to say here's the funds
MAB: are you considering something that is retractable?
TH: probably cost prohibitive
MAB: doesn't have to be electronic
TH: where design flair comes into
rise and run of a bleacher -- whether out of steel or concrete is a xxx
something will make us proud; first class field and wanna stay; intent
can't afford to put a roof on now so been deferred
Mayor: 100-year tradition in WV, standing, watching in the rain, sharing the pain; xxx
I wdn't want to be the one to go up to Pat McLeod and say not as xxx
why require covered seating when others don't?
TH: hoping in the future
Coq, Surrey, have built some xxx seating; almost small stadiums, we're not shooting for that
see others and wonder why can't we do that.
Mayor: hoping to get a motion
TP: residents
[NSN] front page, see trees planted so soften; a bit of a compromise for nbrs across the street
IH: as staff we did look at that; south side of MDr, smaller trees so see
Sop: just as you want a wine bar on the beach, WV for years; with my own kids xxx
have a xxx terrific
DRC a bit cold at first; sits across the field with trees, will work out
why wdn't it be safe?
wind factors, wheelchair areas, DRC to move ahead, pillars were a concern but were explained
Mayor: perhaps a motion on the floor
[Name, public input]
TH: believe I've had my three minutes
Mayor: shd join Ch of Commerce
CC made the motion: that 1. The Rutledge Field Spectator Seating Project described in the report dated October 30 from the Mgr of Parks Operations and the Mgr of Facilities and Assets, be approved and that;
2. Council direct staff to provide assurances from the WV Field Hockey Club, to the satisfaction of the CFO, that all applicable costs associated with the design and construction for the Spectator Seating Project be the responsibility of the WV Field Hockey Club, and that the Club provide proof that funds are held in trust prior to commencement of the project.
Is mntnce by FHClub or District?
{good question}
IH: see it as a partnership
{bad answer -- what proportions? better still, approx cost!}
TP: second
CC: not convinced the superiority of concrete but you've done more work on this and DRC believed it
if the FHC wants to build, it shd be something they're willing to maintain
FHC come up with money themselves but leary of District taking on xxx
I'm supportive of its being built but maintained by the Club; want to add that to the motion
{good idea, being careful with taxpayers' money}
Sop: friendly amendment or another motion?
TP: a huge cmnty asset; field hockey and soccer
not put on the doc at the beginning b/c wanting to make sure this proj was on time and on budget
good and healthy access; cmnty facility
use increased and for ppl my age; this is for hi sch students; level they shd hv access to
concrete if gone through all the processes then mntnce is minimal
storage is huge; brought it down; potential to soften it
suspect soccer happy to have seating
there are some pretty hefty fees
for the benefit, and the partnerships created to xxx; confident a success for the cmnty
fine-tune some issues for the nbrs; absolutely supporting this
NG: supporting sports, field groups; a bit confused -- for soccer?
Ans: IT IS
NG: just never seen it
Ans: SAT AM
NG: not another on the other side
field hockey v popular at the moment; concern with this v permanent structure; sports come and go
when I was in HSch -- wind surfing and no one does it any more
20 - 30 years hope ppl
drive by twice a day, agree with Cclr Lewis, getting an institutional feel, area how cut off
expanding and expanding; tough time with this decision
MAB: drove down there; a fantastic field but looks horrid, those little bleachers
got to have some seats and 300 not overly ambitious
this is about inviting the cmnty to come
standing in the rain; sitting is bad enough, but xxx
do hear residents, bleachers, so wd encourage you to have some sort of cover
if I were living across from a field, I'd feel pretty good
mntnce issue, Cclr Panz addressed: we charge fees so they pay for it already
{they pay user fees but doubt that covers mntnce; get numbers!}
I'll be supporting and thank you to the groups bringing this here to us; what I see is a necessity to a field
{and all those votes.....}
watching that high calibre of hockey
ML: I supported this from the get-go and will this evening but I'm not impressed
sorry, if that's the DRC the best they can come up with, I'm sorry about their [8:18]
tin roofs and going to get tagged and know how much it costs to remove
v supportive of the concept of seating but think we can do a better job than this
CARRIES UNANIMOUSLY [8:19]
9. Update - Removal of Sound Barrier and Trees at Gleneagles Elementary School (File: 1785-01)
RF: asked to xxx
original was wrt terminus of the hwy; number of years ago, nbrhd concerns; studies, best hwy ramp
according to our research, cd not find why the wall was not constructed there
by elem school, cash contribution; taken down, civility concerns
staff working with nbrs and stakeholders
this is just a status update so staff just asking for receipt
John McMahon here if questions
Mayor: so just receive the report and no further action?
RF: yes
Sop: many years back, long process [many] involved
barrier to prevent noise for chn
no one taking any resp for noise abatement not there; find that rather sad
taxes ... that corner ... open xxx; chain-link fence, loose on the bottom
what's wrong with someone xxx closure to the nbrhd; ev turning a blind eye to this
Mayor: have public to speak so if a specific question; debate when motion on floor
CC: am I correct that there is no agrmt in writing? governing construction?
RF: staff understand a sum of money, prov Min gave to Sch District; that contract was taken by the Sch Dist to facilitate construction
CC: did Sch Dist sign a contract to build a fence with MoT? where, how?
RF: not to my
CC: remarkable; residents want a 40m fence on the N side of the prop, seems a minor, reasonable request
$5K per m? since friends built for a tenth of that!
{great that CC looked into this -- hwy robbery!}
Mayor: $$$
McMahon: original estimate was $4500
also looking at other motions
CC: it's a Montreal-sized contract ; if paid X they got taken to the cleaners; xxx this figure is ridiculous!
{You go, Craig! the Montreal reference a nice touch....}
MAB: so a wall can be rebuilt at no cost?
RF: originally the sound fence was much longer
the sch trustees, [how] want to have policy; open window for safety and that is still their preference
understand how imp for the cmnty, agreeing sound fence from tip of site to edge of parking lot so that it might address some of the sound from the hwy exit and the roundabout but not the disembarking? traffic up the ramp
McM: one RoW is on District prop
MAB: on blvd
McM: yes
MAB: this is both a visual and an auditory [barrier]; you've only looked at the auditory one
McM: yes
MAB: auditory blocking; staff haven't looked at the visual
Mayor: only considered the auditory
MAB: purpose of the sound study wd be?
McM: depending on material $100K or
if not going to address the prob wd you like to put one up?
by putting in a wall that doesn't address the sound issue xxx; no point putting in a wall if not auditory
MAB: you're not experts; but if you stand on one side and say something it wd be muffled
TP: can all agree about Ferry Service; MoT gave the money to the Sch Dist not WV
RF: my understanding
TP: so the Sch Dist took the wall down, now we have to take this on?
Mayor: Dist trying to facilitate though not xxx [8:32]. Michael Evison
Ev: didn't intend leading off this debate; wrt the wall, this isn't about whether the Dist shd engage in a xxx; it's righting a wrong
xxx; spending another $10K not xxx; ppl build a wall ev day; bridge is diff; xxx
Cclr Cam agree -- We've been duped
spoke ; $487 a metre, not $4500; dble for engg purposes
recognize a mistake has been made; put it back in the budget or do it next year
John/Don? UmbaLuback (sp?): Rosebery, nbr of Elem
thank you for your attn to this; on spring break our nbrhd changed substantially; many signed petition requesting sound barrier be put back in place
one of the WRA mbrs recalls a court order, thought it was BCF presented a cheque for $400K and the Sch Dist decided to use some of that to install the sound barrier as well as triple glazing in the school and upgraded ventilation to mitigate concerns re sound; not what we'd like to pursue, enjoy outdoors
Cclr MAB's question appropriate; well known decibels and ..... when removed
McM's remarks surprising -- I thought Sch Dist had agreed to have it back on their prop
Sop mentioned chain link fence, also openings 2ft hi, and saw chn playing near there today near opening that drops down to MDr; so Sch Dist position that 'safer' baffles me
caught in the crossfire between BCF, Min of Transp, District's Engg group, SD45, and Ccl
thank cclrs who've visited the site
Mayor: no motion on the floor
TP: will move what's in front of me:
THAT the report dated Nov 23 titled, Update - Removal of Sound Barrier and Trees ... be received for info
This doesn't really help us
wall needs to be put back in place; best way to do it
if we get some funding, maybe go back to Sch Bd and go halfway
school and nbrhd impacted on a daily basis; shd do our best to come up with a solution
not sure we'll be responsible for sound barriers throughout the Dist; this is unique; hope come up with a path forward
Mayor: for or against?
TP: just to receive
CC: propose an amendment: Dist write a letter to sch bd pay half ...... cost us about $20K; Sch Dist's prob, they've bungled with nbrhd
Sch Dist put in the most
ML: longest motion
CC: my amendment is to contact Sch Dist and offer to pay half
Mayor: just vote on receipt and then another motion
ML: but what concerns me there are so many xxx
originally runs up along the side of the hwy; noisy; speed muffled
it was also supposed to stop pollution -- explain to me how since from hwy above; probably the most ill-conceived
coupled with another cost downloading to the District concerns me
wd I be okay with sharing if it'll make a diff but just to put something up that doesn't really make a diff
I'd like some substantial quantifiable data before we embark on this
NG: I just can't believe how much I'm agreeing with Cclr Lewis tonight!
[laughter]
ML: As the Mayor said earlier, it's good to see you come to your senses
[laughter]
NG: but he apologized for that shortly thereafter, several times
third to last paragraph from our staff
our role limited to facilitating this matter, simply out of the kindness of our hearts
doing that b/c residents came to us
prob is with Sch Bd, not with us; staff do not recommend expanding the District's responsibilities
my concern xxx; imagine if the Sch Bd took part of our prop
you've got to
backwards; residents shd be going to Sch Bd, writing to the Trustees, this is a Sch Dist problem
MAB: not helpful to play the blame game
{hm; she was on the Sch Bd and even Chair...... so why not enlighten us?}
technically -- if it weren't for the Dist putting in the roundabout
came in... xxx
{head shakes}
Mayor: xxx clarify this point
McM: when we were doing the roundabout, we did not do xxx?
Sch Dist took xxx of the work being done there
MAB: I stand corrected
combination of the roundabout and the wall have affected the nbrhd
xxx; item no 1 is taking down the wall; of 9 items; cumulative issue
if motion to look at costing will support that
Mayor: xxx
MAB: whatever goes forward must be documented
Sop: can remember BCF $500K around HBay, including Ron's Walk
{HBay person in gallery: NO}
you can imagine the landgrab; concern was toll gate near school so they moved it further up the hill
wall put in for noise abatement
ask staff to see if any arrangement can be made -- if land worth $20 xxx
xxx; xxx; at least keep going
Mayor: so receive the report then
CC: will save
but residents is strange to their...
Sch Bd is doing nothing; to send them to Sch Bd is a fruitless journey; wd leave them out to dry
as Ccl shd look after our citizens; led to a situation shdn't be asked to tolerate
anything we can do to facilitate we're not going to fix, not pollution; by landscaping and wall, we'll improve
do we want to spend $10K to study it? I'd rather spend $20K and solve it
Ccl use moral suasion to get Sch Bd to xxx
Sop: hear, hear
McM: justification re sound study; originally the report recommended if a wall were to go in it shd go on the ramp, not where it ended up; that reason if wall down there, wd it actually solve the prob noise coming from hwy ramp
CC: lineal metres of a wall there roughly same as at the school or will it be a lot longer? I will make the motion
McM: not sure
Mayor: if prob comes from the ferry terminal and the traffic leading out of the terminal, HBay, is staff telling us there's absolutely no chance of MoT money being available to address this issue? [8:52]
RF: that has not been confirmed; perhaps shd have identified there are a bunch of initiatives and actions we're still working on
to continue ... proper sound wall; simply don't have an answer with MoT
Mayor: productive mtg with MoT re Ansell Place and Seascape; xxx
motion carries unanimously (receipt)
CC: don't accept any responsibility?
if funds from xxx .....
don't want to offer money if Sch Bd
[move] direct staff to explore, sound issue cd be mitigated xxx
Mayor: direct staff to explore ... with Sch Bd
CC: I wd support that
Mayor: Ms Scholes, did you capture that? xxx
CC: xxx
Mayor: Mr McRadu
ask Sch Dist and MoT to come before Ccl so we can hear all three
{good suggestion, Mr Mayor -- or from CAO?}
Cam/Sop [8:56] CARRIED
Mayor: not turning our backs as some others, as been done by other bodies in WV
{hm; yes... wch ones pray tell?}
10. [5-Year] Financial Plan Bylaw (File: 1610-01) Information to be provided.
Mayor: couple of ppl to speak to this
NL: 2013 - 2017; xxx since beginning of Nov; three presentations to employees; two presentations to cmnty open forums; ~50 residents common theme: BCF, facilities renewal, more detailed info for facility costs...
major issues: facilities, roads, PSB [9:02]
CR: Good evening, M&Ccl. Carolanne Reynolds, Editor WVM
Thank you for the early process for the budget and for your efforts to keep the taxes down.
- To raise revenue, last week I suggested considering a maintenance levy for users of municipally-owned buildings since infrastructure is one of the major questions we're dealing with.
- To keep expenditures down, may I recommend some out-sourcing.
= You may also wish to think about selling lanes in blocks where the residents agree.
> Staff remuneration is over 80% of the budget. Are there not four mbrs who wish to address this factor?
From 2011's figures -- last year --, we see some are underpaid and some are overpaid (many well over $100K, with at least six over $150K and the highest $224K) when compared with comparable training and experience with the private sector.
o How much over 2011 is 2012's pay amount?
o How much cd be saved if there were a pay freeze for 2013, esp given the prov govt's policy has been zero?
During this time there cd be a thorough review of pay levels, esp to raise those below the private sector.
We treasure our municipal staff and strive to make their compensation fair -- even though many in the population have found their income static or lower in recent years.
Thank you all again for your efforts for a zero tax rate increase -- if that's in the latest version presented tonight.
Thank you
Mayor: thank you. Mr Roach
Dave Roach: this year a pleasure to be part of the consultation process; it's been good
plan before you small changes to 2013 draft; since no report in public domain today
wonder if we cd get some small update... by email
4.36% increase in taxation being proposed, increase over 2013, so 2014 is 4.36% higher
fees and charges 2% higher
Licences and Permits 5% higher, that's on top of the 25 - 30% increase scheduled to take place in 2013
principle outflows: operating div expenses up 1.6% (2014 higher than 2013) in the plan; transfer to the Infrastructure Fund is up 26.9% (2013 to 2014) and wonder if we cd get some background on that and the reason for it
when I look at the bylaw, part three of the bylaw says repeal the bylaw 4717, 2012, and think this is going to cause you some legislative probs
2012 is not finished yet
CFO says she intends to amend the bylaw 4717
you have an item on agenda tonight (13); Exp and Sale of M land; rec 3 is staff report back with a budget amendment for 2012
if you look at the Cmnty Charter section 173 and section 191, I think what she ought to do is remove part three of the bylaw, just stroke it though, and that will solve some legal probs you might have in the light of...
Mayor: thank you; Ms Leemhuis xxx
NL: had hoped earlier in years
but sensible what she suggests
recommend first reading recognize that
assumption xxx
May be here next Monday?
DR: I'll try ... repeal Pt 3 ...
Mayor: ... got that?
MAB: motion read first time
CC: xxx CFO ... repeal part 3
MAB: this will do that
Mayor: Carries unanimously [9:08]
11. Art Centre Update (File: 0510-13)
BL: xxx here; to bring up to date; funding for the ongoing work
Mayor: Mr Ev has signed
Ev: don't feel need to
Mayor: enough said
MOTION THAT Council receive the Dep/CAOs report of December 3, 2012 for information.
Mayor: exciting work
12. Ambleside Waterfront and Village Centre Public Engagement (File: 2195-01)
Jeff McD [text kindly supplied, my bolding]:
This is an exciting time as we move forward with public engagement and consultation on Ambleside Waterfront and Village Centre Activation.
This is one of Councils five priority areas and we have drafted a plan for public engagement on these important projects on the waterfront and in the Village centre.
In a report to you in October, you directed us to draft a plan for public engagement. Its attached to your report as Addendum B.
Let me go over the engagement goals. They are [to]:
· [Seek] public input on the draft waterfront plan and specific implementation projects based upon the guiding principles and the Village Centre Strategy.
· Refine the proposals based on specific public input to ensure the projects align with the communitys aspirations for the waterfront the Ambleside Village Centre.
· Identify budget impacts to that you, Council, l can make informed decisions about how to move forward with implementing these projects.
· Present the public input to Council so that they understand public preferences.
Our tactics are as follows:
· Conduct a statistically significant telephone survey to get feedback on the various projects and their prioritization.
· Use the telephone survey to direct residents to a secure online survey. Access is limited to only those residents identified in the telephone survey.
· Make the same online survey available and open for any and all to respond to. Drive traffic to it through advertisements in local newspapers.
· Launch social media campaign to promote the participation and raise awareness of the projects.
· Host three community information sessions (January/February) with stations for each project, District staff acting as hosts and engaging at stations, and post-card [sized] individual surveys on each project at each station.
· Develop project boards for each of the major potential projects on the waterfront for posting in Municipal Hall, the library, and the Community Centres.
Sop: support what you're doing
made ref in both re public ownership of waterfront
public ownership will not be complete until we purchase the remaining props
not public ownership until we set in motion a doc, waterfront is dedicated park
fear, a request to zone it commercial; now residential; parts a mixture
how bring about that piece for x, that for y, spend millions of dollars and then come back to be something other than park!
park; limits bldgs go down there
Jef McD: I'll ask Mr Sokol to answer
Sokol: exact xxx
come up with the direction we want to go; come forward with proposal and wording
Sop: so not your intention entire park
Mayor: intention to ask public; public land owned by the public; ask them what they want to see on their land
Sop: cd be a thousand things but we're obligated....
not going to be filled up with ?commercial?
lost that, lose everything
NG: your report mentions a tel survey; separate from the cmnty survey we're already doing, expensive?
JMcD: separate
NG: unfortunate
like about the postcards for surveys; used successfully last year with 1300blk and PSB
wd like to see, publicize the online survey; and to also publicize the xxx
TP: fully support what's on; no question we have invested millions and rightly so
my concern is sea rise; be responsible for decision in future
huge investment in our waterfront, the responsible thing to do; our foreshore speaks volumes to that
my wish in 2013 we do some work, whether with UBC students, re high water mark and sea level change over the next 30 years; looking at pretty major investments; not sure where it fits
[9:19] Sop made motion:
1. The report from the Dir/Planning and A/Dir/Communications, dated November 22, 2012, be received for information.
2. The District commence public consultation, to be based upon the consultation strategy contained in this report, and attached as Appendix A, on the Waterfront Plan and potential implementation strategies and projects for the Waterfront and Ambleside Village Centre.
Mayor: carries unanimously [9:20]
13. 2012 Expenditures for Sale of Surplus M Lands, PSB, and Related Admin and Overhead (File: 0500-01)
MAB recused herself
Mark Chan: purpose of report re funds spent
to reach this stage on PSB
new budget; recently hired architect; to be presented at ccl mtg Dec 10
ML: I recommend
{why doesn't he 'move'?}
the report dated Nov 26 be received for information.
I further recommend
{move?}
the 2012 expenditures up to October 31, 2012 of $266,078 be funded in a manner consistent with the funding approach previously approved by Council for these initiatives, namely through the net proceeds of sale of District-owned lands which are deposited in the Endowment Fund.
and finally, Staff report back to Council with a budget amendment bylaw to amend the 2012 District Budget.
Mayor: In the interests of full disclosure, Mr Chan do you have the figures for 2011 and 2010 so we can tell the public exactly what we have spent to date?
MC: the amt for 2010 is $301,821 and for 2011 is $704,498.
Mayor: so we've spent $1,267,000, something like that or $1M271K?
MC: yes, Mr Mayor
Mayor: we want to make sure the public is aware we're keeping track of public money we're spending and always trying to spend it more effectively
MC: absolutely, Mr Mayor
{was this duet rehearsed?}
Mayor: Discussion or call the question? Carries unanimously-- uh-- Oh, I'm sorry
You come up so often you shd sit at the front
CR: I did sign when I came in
Mayor: I know, you know I have your --, that was my fault. I apologize for that.
CR: wrt this, and thank you for asking those add'l questions, it says on the motion re funding approach "previously approved" but presumably Ccl wd keep all its options open. What I'm thinking out is the PSB, b/c the last time I looked at that website, I haven't looked for a while, it did say several ways of funding it, not just an agreement of selling or leasing -- not been approved. So I just wanted you all to confirm you're keeping all your options open. You don't have to fund it the way it was mentioned before.
[9:25] Mayor: No, we're keeping all our options open, absolutely.
CR: tyvm
Mayor: Cd be named the Reynolds-Pajari Bldg if you want to step up
[laughter]
BYLAWS ADOPTED
14. Solid Waste Utility Bylaw No. 4740, 2012 (Solid Waste Utility Changes and Fees for 2013) (File: 1610-20-4740 / 1775-01)
15. Waterworks Regn Bylaw No. 4490, 2006, Amendmt Bylaw No. 4741, 2012 (Water Utility Fees 2013) (File: 1610-20-4741 / 1815-19)
16. Sewer/Drainage Utility Fee Bylaw No. 4538, 2007, Amendmt Bylaw No. 4742, 2012 (Sewer Utility Fees 2013) (File: 1610-20-4742 / 1765-01)
17. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS (for receipt/info/approval)
17.1. 2013 Acting Mayor Schedule (File: 0120-01)
Dec 2012/Jan 2013 Cclr Sop Feb/Mar Cclr Gam April/May Cclr Booth
June/July Cclr Lewis Aug/Sept Cclr Cam Oc/Nov Cclr Panz.
17.2. Appointments of Ccl Mbrs to MetroV Board of Directors and Cmtes for 2013 (File: 0185-01)
1. The following appointments to the MetroV Board of Directors for 2013 be approved:
Mayor Smith, and Councillor Panz (alternate);
2. The following recommendation for appointments to Metro Vancouver committees be approved:
Aboriginal Relations Cmte Cclr Booth Finance Cmte Cclr Lewis Utilities Cmte Cclr Panz.
17.3. Appointments of Council Mbrs to Boards, Committees, and Working Groups for 2013 (File: 0115-01)
the following appointments of Council members to boards, committees and working groups for 2013 be approved:
West Vancouver Community Centres Society Board: Councillor Booth
Memorial Library Board: Councillor Cameron
Seniors Centre Advisory Board: Councillor Panz
Audit Committee: all Council members
Awards Committee: Councillor Gambioli
Community Grants Committee: Councillor Gambioli
Design Review Committee: Councillor Soprovich (Alternate - Councillor Cameron)
Gleneagles Community Centre Advisory Committee: Councillor Lewis
Lower Caulfeild Advisory Committee: Councillor Soprovich
Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel: Cclrs Gambioli, Lewis, Soprovich (Alternates Cclrs Booth, Cameron, Panz)
School Traffic Safety Advisory Committee (not a Council committee): Councillor Booth
Youth Services Review Implementation Group (not a Council committee): Councillor Booth
Field Sports Forum Working Group: Councillor Cameron
Upper Lands Study Review Working Group: Councillors Panz and Cameron
Invasive Plant Species Working Group: Councillor Gambioli
Coho Festival Society: Councillor Soprovich
Howe Sound Forum: Councillors Panz and Soprovich
West Vancouver Chamber of Commerce: Councillor Lewis
North Shore Advisory Committee on Disability Issues: Councillor Lewis
North Shore Family Court & Youth Justice Committee: Councillor Gambioli (Alternate Councillor Cameron)
North Shore Emergency Management Office: Councillor Soprovich
North Shore Substance Abuse Working Group (formerly Task Force): Councillor Lewis.
17.4. North Shore Emergency Management Office (NSEMO) Report regarding Integrated Partnership for Regional Emergency Management (IPREM) All Hazard Integrated Regional Concept of Operations (File: 0180 16)
the report dated Nov 9 from the Director, NSEMO be received for information.
17.5. 2013 Age-friendly Community Planning and Project Grants Application (File: 2620-13)
MOVED
1. Ccl authorize the submission of a grant application to the UBCM Srs Housing and Support Initiative program of $20,000 to fund the NSh Age Friendly Initiative Seniors Connecting Seniors for Healthy Living; and that
2. Council authorize the project to proceed, subject to confirmation that full funding is available.
17.6. Gleneagles Community Centre Advisory Committee Revised Terms of Reference (File: 0116-20-GCCAC)
THAT the revised Terms of Reference as attached to the report dated Nov 15 be approved.
17.7. Correspondence List (see link on electronic agenda) (File: 0120-24)
Council Correspondence Update to November 16, 2012 (Noon)
Referred for Action
(1) Hollyburn Heritage Society, November 15, 2012, regarding Hollyburn Lodge
(Referred to Chief Financial Officer for consideration and response)
Received for Information
(2) Five Hole For Food, November 15, 2012, regarding Five Hole For Food November 2012 Update
(3) A. Conradi, November 15, 2012, regarding Ambleside Renewal- 1300 Block Marine Drive
(4) November 16, 2012, regarding New pulsating wireless radiation?
Responses to Correspondence
(5) Dir/Planning, Nov 13, response to EcoUrbia Network, re Overview of EcoUrbias Proposal for a WV Cmnty Eco Ctr
(6) Director of Engineering and Transportation, November 14, 2012, response to S. Slater, regarding Traffic
(7) Manager of Parks Operations, November 15, response regarding No to proposed spectator seating at Rutledge Field
(8) Mgr of Parks Operations, Nov 15, 2012, response to M. and N. Bowman, regarding Rutledge Field Spectator Seating
Council Correspondence Update to November 23, 2012 (Noon)
Referred for Action
(1) North Shore Family Court & Youth Justice Committee, November 16, 2012, regarding DWV Delegation
(Referred to Municipal Clerk for response)
(2) L. Ward, November 19, 2012, regarding Drainage problems 445 North Oxley Street/District property
(Referred to Director of Engineering and Transportation for consideration and response)
(3) Hollyburn Ridge Assn (HRA), Nov 22 re HRA Proposal to integrate 7 DWV cabins to Hollyburn Heritage Cabin Cmnty
(Referred to Director of Parks and Community Services for consideration and response)
(4) M. Carter, November 22, 2012, regarding Spending
(Referred to Director of Engineering and Transportation for consideration and response)
Received for Information
(5) October 30, 2012, regarding Ambleside Farmers Market
(6) 10 submissions, dated November 18 22, 2012, regarding Marine Drive Development
(7) H.Y. Louie Co. Ltd., Nov 15, re Fresh St. Market at 1650 Marine Drive Opening Postponed Until Early January 2013
Responses to Correspondence
(8) DirEngg, Nov 16, response to R. Wyckham
re Spirit Trail from John Lawson Park to Dundarave, A Key Ingredient in the Reinvigoration of Ambleside
(9) Director of Planning, Lands and Permits, November 20, 2012, response regarding Cel Towers
Council Correspondence Update to November 27, 2012 (4:30 pm)
Referred for Action
(1) R. Richards, November 23, 2012, regarding Wasteful expenditure
(Referred to Director of Engineering and Transportation for consideration and response)
(2) R. Richards, November 26, 2012, regarding 2013 water rates
(Referred to Director of Engineering and Transportation for consideration and response)
(3) United Home Automation Ltd., November 24, 2012, regarding A call to stop making obsolete brand new homes
(Referred to Dir/Planning for consideration and response) (Atts available for viewing in Legislative Services Dept)
Received for Information
(4) Committee and Board Meeting Minutes West Vancouver Memorial Library Board October 17, 2012
(5) Union of BC Municipalities, November 20, regarding Local Government Contract Management Committee Meeting
(6) Island Pacific School, November 24, 2012, regarding Thanks for Bus Help
(7) 3 submissions, dated November 25-26, 2012, regarding Ambleside Development - Revitalization
(8) 2 submissions, dated November 26-27, 2012, regarding 1300 block of Marine Drive
(9) Village of Belcarra, Nov 26, regarding Kinder Morgan Emergency Response Plans Oil Spills Into Burrard Inlet.
18. OTHER ITEMS
Ccl has requested that the following correspondence be brought fwd for discussion, and may propose a motion if Ccl considers that further action is required.
18.1. October 30, 2012, regarding Ambleside Farmers Market
CC: will make brief; last session in Oct; raised also with me
potential solutions; 14th St worked quite well; if Grosvenor site not av, too small
presume we can guarantee not construction
not much bathroom space, walking along, not in FBG
a mbr of the Amb Biz Assn [upset about] number of food carts
spoke to other biz and felt 3 hrs a week [not a prob]; will draw ppl
so xxx
Mayor: so this letter will be referred to staff
ML: terms under wch xxx food cart sales operate
BL: establishing the Farmers' Mkt in the long term, approp we look at; long term
Sop: that was my concern; BC-grown, arts and crafts
expansion, is that xxx? we too will have food carts; if ev xxx comes along wants to expand
something on a Sat and Sun, point is if it gets out of hand, it gets out of hand
Mayor: staff coming back to Ccl
Sop: read the letter too and spoke to Cclr Lewis too
Mayor: always good that two cclrs agree
NG: xxx; recently received a letter from H Y Louie
pushing to open before Xmas but due to unforeseen issues, pushed to January 2013; thought public shd know that; hoping for Jan
Mayor: turkey? you'll be happy to learn the British Butcher [Shop] has just opened up
{yum}
19. PUBLIC QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS
NAME?: petition from all the nbrs
Mayor: hold you to three minutes
Ans: applied and received Variance Permit in 2010; huge struggle; inspection
currently xxx; set of plans did not comply with bldg code; still not getting
Planning ...
{??? can't hear}
asking Ccl, saying not the way to do biz; investigate and see what went wrong
final xxx on the house
deficiencies, don't believe there are; what are these issues?
briefly [holds up MAP]; address in red are ones in blue backing on
v confusing nbrhd; some lots do not have access
my house is the grey one here, yellow -- these go in front to access
100% support
this is wrong, get it fixed; asking Ccl to consider the proposal
Mayor: thank you for that; will read the literature
at some point in town
Ans: this house is difficult to visualize
paper; reasons it had to be built this way
Mayor: anybody else?
Bruce McArthur: sitting back listening to the sound fence
engg, look into sound fence for the truck brake stall -- - eventually erected a short barrier
maybe some research into how that was established
Mayor: thank you for that suggestion
20. Adjournment [9:39]
=== CCL MTG NOTES Monday December 10 ===
7:00 PM
1. Call to Order.
2. Approval of December 10, 2012 Regular Council Meeting Agenda
adding to Item 6 one written submission; adding to Item 15, Items 15.1 15.3;
3. Adoption of Minutes
November 19, 2012 regular Council Meeting; and November 26, 2012 special Council Meeting.
DELEGATIONS
4. WV Secondary School Recycling Club regarding Battery Recycling Program (File: 0055-01)
Mayor: welcome, Club
{Joanne and Jessie, two of 24 mbrs}
Joanne: thank you; some background; aim for WV to become {best?} in Canada
why? heavy metals; keep out of landfills; can leach; cadmium causes cancer; slide presentation
collect and educate; imp to recycle batteries; zinc and magnesium taken out
founded last Christmas; spreading awareness, pictures
1750 lbs of batteries; need a stable recycling xxx
WV .29% of recycling in Canada but .13% popn
container like this
Jessie: lazy, ppl can just recycle downstairs
schools; chn passionate about saving the envmt; cooperate with other schools
pick up batteries ev week
Joanne: Map of where we collect; SLIDE showing where we cannot reach (above Upper Levels and some coloured areas in WV)
Main ppl we cannot reach: "working class in single house",
{exactly what she said (slight accent); listened a couple of times to get}
"they will not have chn and mainly they will not shop in WV"
have more apt mgrs open up to us; "the mgr think not presentable" recycled cardboard box in lobby
orange one from Home Depot; need more promotion material
Permission: spreading awareness
letters regarding our location, in particular to all apt mgrs
put our website on District website; permission for reg info booth at cmnty ctr and the Library
NSh be a common battery colln area
Everyone do a little, help a little
CC: think it's wonderful what you're doing
one of the best presentations, you finished with a list of what wanting us to do
provide to us in writing
TP: when did you start?
Ans: last Dec, so 11 mos
TP: can't wait for next year; as a cmnty, work to do to get from 1.9 to 2.3
Ans: see a battery container and just put it in there
TP: we have stewardship groups and work with our staff mgr
Mayor: did notice our staff making notes so can respond to some of your requests
DepCAO: happy to take list and make actionable
NG: something for our new mgr of sustainability next year, huh?
We take it to the Library
[7:16] Mayor: passes unanimously and xxx
5. Reports from Mayor and Councillors on Boards, Committees, and Working Groups
TP: first mtg of Upper Lands tomorrow night, open to public
See Mr McArthur in the audience
Public has received complaints re hours at Lib during Christmas so have extended them
CC: mtg of Website WG last Thurs; two consultants: one doing structure and other design
{have read the webpage and the October mtg notes and there's no mention of a consultant for structure, but then the mbrs aren't on the webpage and the Dec mtg is not on the DWV Calendar, and......}
sort
lively discussion; groupings -- how citizens group and items we have on website; info
as process goes forward there's opps first of all anyone can attend, on website
and opp to test drive the website
imp public get involved; won't know unless cmnty gets involved
NG: last Thurs attended Spirit Trail HBay consultation; spirited disc; 60 ppl there, into ten diff groups
surprising consistent results from all the groups; look forward to staff report in new year
Some of the cclrs will be switching
I've been on LCAC for past year, Cclr Sop will be taking over and I'll be taking over for the Invasive Plant WG
ML: M&Ccl hv been invited to a Menorah lighting ceremony on Wed at 6pm
sure find it informative, and enlightening
{HAHA]}
MAB: Ch of Comm [7:21]
Sop: through Dec, Operation Red Nose -- call and we'll drive
Mayor: have Cclr Sop drop you off at your door
last Sat, Christmas lunch at Srs' Ctr
Sunrise, xxx, xxx, Mulgrave Choir entertaining
6. Development Variance Permit Application No. 12-072 (6298 Wellington Avenue) (File: 1010-20-12-072)
At the Nov 19 reg mtg Ccl received the report dated Nov 6, and set the date for consideration for Dec 10, 2012.
Reports received up to and including December 6, 2012: Nov 6 Report for Ccl Consideration Nov 19 and Dec 10Written Submissions received up to and including December 6, 2012: None to date
SSch: one submission received today
GB: SLIDE showing proposed addition
proceeded to construct it and then discovered a mistake
xxx [7:22] Bd of V declined; economic hardship not considered a hardship
SLIDE showing wch support
applicants, the Brocks are present
ML: didn't see any letters in opposition
Sop: maybe someone will give you a tape measure
PRESENTATION BY APPLICANT
CALL FOR PUBLIC INPUT
TP made the motion: all written and verbal submissions be received for information.
I want to say BoV by the books
this is unfortunate; happened last year so happens from time to time
{hm, oh my, hm, I wonder why.....}
xxx ... lots of trees remain
app ppl being a little more sensitive
CC:... letters writing in is remarkable
this is amazing; a good deal of good will in the nbrhd
not the fault of the applicants; see no basis -- see clear hardship maybe see the BoV
commended with amt of consultation
NG: similar to Cclr Cam's; impressed by letters
am sure you'll be able to have some great nbrhd barbecues
Sop: spoke to xxx [7:29], he's upset
house sitting higher than the rest
MAB: truly believe it was an accident; owners ended up with less ceiling
think they've done everything right
the DVP wch wd allow for an increase in the maximum allowable building height so that a roof constructed on the existing house can be retained, be approved.
Mayor: carries unanimously
7. [5-Year] Financial Plan Bylaw No. 4743, 2012 (File: 1610-20-4743)
The proposed bylaw received first reading at the December 3, 2012 regular Council Meeting.
Mayor: Mr Koke, your moment to shine
{wonder why there's been no mention he's taking over from the CFO (Nina Leemhuis) who goes on leave of absence January 1st.}
MK: budget book; wd like to run through process
allowed to spend for one-time issue
discussion at open house; CFO gave out budget book in Nov; FCmte discussed BCF
Nov 13 presentation; Nov 14 and 21st two budget open houses; Nov 26 most recent version -- this has the adjustment of $800K [7:32] xxx
three internal discussions by staff
Dec 3 first reading; hope 2nd and 3rd readings tonight and adopted Dec 12
more than confident met our obligations
2014 - 2017 forecasting estimates: PSB, facilities systems renewal as well as roads and transportation
a few changes from the original budget book; you've all recvd these
$814K for renewal -- from Lib Budget; removal of rlwy crossings $300K
adjustment re salaries WVPD reduced
xxx funding for those expenses
2014 - 17, included in bylaw
added $750K ea year for new construction $1.1M
increased: fees and charges by 2%; licence and permits 5%; TWay lease 4% per year
Div 1.25% for salaries and steps
capital plans prepared by staff
Sop: p58 re Endowment Fund; other civic facilities yet EndFund has not commitment
MK: funding toward EF; the actual balance will be $25M; holding $ from Wetmore Prop
Sop: it's rev sources
Mayor: just goes to [7:37]
Sop: but it says to 17
MK: not using
NL: in 2013 we're not proposing to use funds at this point
budget amendment
any spending out of the EndFund has to come before Ccl?
NL: always
CC: tonight a request for staff re PSB; oh, sorry about that
TP: looking back since 2010; want to be clear in operating; increase for taxpayers re utilities; concern going fwd
Mayor: you have a crystal ball, Mr Koke
MK: xxx; intend to do a lot of work for 2013; intend to to do a lot of modelling
CC: on p 57, levies by other govts, increase of ~20% {&???} TransLink and Metro over years
MK: straight flow-through so doesn't have an impact
CC: but on [what they pay]; $2.5M increase
MK: partly driven by capital requests; adjust the rates as to the reqmts
CC: possibly acctg changes but goes from [7:41] from x to y
2015 a hell of a lot more work than rev two years
MK: that 's correct
CC: same -- infrastructure, seems to fluctuate quite a bit but just the nature
Mayor: discussion?
ML: questions first?
CALL FOR PUBLIC INPUT [7:43]
Mayor: no mbr signed up
ML: Ms Scholes, wd you like this all at once or in three bullets?
MClk: clauses can just be moved in one motion
ML: I recommend
{he means 'move'}
that the Five-Year Financial Plan, Bylaw 4743, 2012, be amended at second reading to provide that it is effective January 1st 2013 , and that the 5Yr 4743, be read a second time as amended, and the FYFP be read a third time.
Once again work done, public/FCmte mtgs [etc, the process], we have landed on a budget we can be proud of
imp to note in a 5-yr in reality years 3, 4, 5 are best guesstimates ... change over time
v supportive of this doc
Sop: thank you and congrats to Ms L and the whole time; incredible job
NG: I asked staff to best of their knowledge about other jurisdictions
other Ms, the annual anticipated tax increase 1.75 to 6% -- ours will be a [net?] zero
almost all Ms before end of year and adoption Jan to Mar
ours this week is a historical moment; thx to staff
a year ago all elected, many of us on platforms of fiscal efficiency and effectiveness and this budget shows we've made excellent progress
[7:45] MAB: congrat staff and thank cmnty; relatively smooth process
did introduce an add'l planning tool, priorities; they did act on that
hope to next year
movement on core services review; going to the cmnty on some questions around that
for staff's use, some key indicators, take some measurements; excited about that
while we did maintain a zero..... we did go into this with a $2M surplus wch is a 5%
there was no reason, given we had a surplus
I do have -- going to cmnty; plan for facility/facilities system a plan $79M over next 20 years -- ought to ask how pay for that
operating up 5%, cd maintain b/c rev up
comfortable with this budget and look fwd to future and being more strategic
TP: I have never supported zero in the past; some concerns; will support it tonight; have to ask how we do renew our facilities
in July but think wise to defer it and get good feedback b/c it's substantial
concern of xxx [7:49]
ackn a few things: our labour costs, we're coming off Olympic increases of 4%; still a legacy showing up but not for next five years
last resort
envmtal position, posted, has been vacant for some time
key this is across all depts
so not sort of issues we had up on the mtn in July
what does this look like five years from now -- deficiencies and deferral
$6M taken out to get zero
xxx; surplus from building; will be change
implemented by capable staff; binder; wise decision as Cclr Lewis likes to say
every year staff getting better and better
Most Ms looking at our Asset Mgmt
thank you, well done, I will support
Mayor: [will be] short -- Bob Dylan said it best; there's a hard rain a-comin'
this is not the time to be raising taxes
xxx ev govt... we're rightly having our cloth to fit our means.
8. Coach House Discussion Paper (File: 2515-02)
{GB and SM gave background, definitions re coach house vs infill; SLIDES}
[7:58] See westvancouver.ca/housing
welcome other opps
second quarter, cmnty survey
Sop: glad this is working forward
when you talk about alternate forms, is this the only form you're looking at?
SM: coach houses are a singular time and based on a direction from Ccl
the paper speaks to diff types; also speaks to others as rental housing and more as xxx [8:01]
so discussion in the cmnty may be more than coach houses
Sop: others may be as legitimate as a coach house
on Jefferson there are two units connected by a heated xxx
look at others -- this will be a broad stroke
wanted to ask you if in your view, a referendum question
Mayor: Ms Boyle
GB: coach houses are one way; disc with cmnty will inform directions
coach houses typically wd not go to referendum; not an expert but in my experience never seen it handled that way
the example on Jefferson is excellent
this, can you go further, and that's what it's about
Sop: don't know what but if effect on nbrhd character
Mayor: Ms Boyle is not an expert on referendums so that's hardly fair
MAB: explain -- coach, laneway, granny flats
GB: all those terms fit in the larger term, infill housing
if you are simply using the density you already have on your prop, called coach
if expanding, then infill
demand where ppl move; demand is outstripping supply for certain forms of housing
do want to hear from cmnty
Ev in this cmnty shd be participating in this process
cmnty engagement process imp; do use
ask staff to look to 21st century modes of accessing cmnty whether that be website or social media
there are groups who don't have the time to come out to these events; tied to their computers
know you have a tel survey planned, useful on the PSB
a lot of residents wd like to hear from ???
Mayor: not sure of your question
GB: can assure you we'll be meeting with the xxx beyond the x forum [8:07]
CC: will do together; move
1. The Discussion Paper, attached as Appendix A to the report from the Mgr of Cmnty Planning and the Sr Cmnty Planner, dated Nov 30, provide the basis for cmnty engagement on coach houses; and
2. Staff report back to Ccl, at a Cmte of the Whole mtg in mid-2013, on the results of the engagement process, including possible directions supported by the cmnty.
Cclr Booth alluded to this ... young under 34, 86%
moving away; attached? housing; moved b/c cd not find something suitable in cmnty; xxx
reason why our apt bldgs chockful
real need for diversity of housing types; do not have an acceptable housing xxx
we have spoken to the public; applaud staff more dialogue
however we have spoken to the public: cmnty dialogue, old wishing to downsize xxxx and xxxx special needs, assisted living
clear need and desire by our cmnty for more
when we did a survey Synovate, heard clear support for more housing options, more affordable, 1100sf
coach/infill houses on existing lots, not just sec stes
last page of the report:
we move forward
referendum has no place in this sort of discussion; clear need
not engaging in endless study and prevaricating
{since prevarication is akin to lying, don't think that's really the word he means}
staff shd be commended
p15 bring to cmnty's attention
process needs to be efficient and clear
go through with out? years and tens of thousands of dollars
status quo will x ; that will be a failure
redistributing FAR
if elderly couple 2000sf lot, permits 5Ksf instead of selling to a devpr -- wd be disruptive to the character -- they'd have the option to put in a coach house
retain nbrhd character; retain residents, enable them to age in place, stay with families
prudent; staff moving in a great direction
process -- hope by mid2013 staff wd report but also here's how you go forward, xxx certainly before this Ccl ends
TP: good work so far; [8:15]
issue with the missing middle but fully supportive
Sop: disagree with you on the referendum
350 units Onni; sec stes [all M]; xxx in Brit Prop, xxxx; xxx at Kiwanis; and decision at PkR two towers, FN 9000 [units]
my point is if we establish not only the coach house, alt forms of housing, it's going to have a direct impact on this cmnty
neg responses from Vanc and NV; horror stories from xxx re infill [8:17]
?as Mab eve have say ?
wd like to see b/c of impact, see a referendum; if 100 units over five years, okay
xxx some are not going to like it
last year highest new bldgs in history
wanting to live and die in their own home; bedroom cmnty; character for years
certainly know imagery
intro of coach houses, if public wants it, that's fine
explore to full xxx; to do any less wd be irresponsible
NG: thank staff for this, was expecting next year
agree with Cclr Cam pretty well all; look forward to cmnty engagement
ML: the purpose of this evening is to start the journey
a whole lot of commentary now I don't find productive; hear public
xxx; xxx putting biases on the table.
[8:19]
9. Rezoning Application No. 12-050 for 1821 Marine Drive (West Van Florist) - Proposed Zoning Bylaw No. 4662, 2010, Amendment Bylaw No. 4736, 2012 (File: 1010-20-12-050)
GB: increase allowable FAR from 1.75 to 2.0
SLIDE re location
rezoning sep from Devt Permit
future locn; current owners no intention of being the devprs of the prop
owners came b/c C2 replaced by AC2 xxx
did they lose density -- overhead prepared by Karl Gustavson showing how cd to previous zoning
FAR of 2 reasonable; one assumption 2 to 3 storeys on MDr (prev guideline)
the question before you is, is this reasonable to move forward with 2.0?
wd a CAC apply?
wd at time of Devt Permit, based on 2 and formula currently in the bylaw
if tomorrow, that wd be $750K
indexing so two years hence a diff amt
Karl G here to answer any questions
KG: Ms Boyle has made most of my points
the applicants long-standing biz, just asking for a reasonable xxx on the prop
purpose to re-establish the density lost in 2008 when C2 to AC2
hv done a lot of work in this cmnty and know
conclusion 2.0 is achievable; does not require an OCP amendment
simply asking an increase in density 2.0 --> AC2
this prop falls into category of max ht of 35'
1.2' bigger wd be 47ft and two storeys; xxx when analysis done
hardship
CAC -- know great struggle -- ev devpr came with a diff
didn't anticipate 1.75 to xxx doesn't work
Harringtons seeing interest in their prop at 2.0 +
think this will become a problem
$750K signif amt of money
potential ... ; asking you to look at it carefully
ML: AC2 in 2008 any particular reason waited till 2012 to come forward
this is unusual and almost prepackaging the sale for the prop making it more attractive to the purchaser b/c know what can build
or new owner wd hv to ask
odd, certainly unique
KG: long 2008
loss of value
been working on this for a year and a half
Mayor: do recall owner felt he was being downzoned at that time
{yes, true; I remember also.}
CC: what wd be the diff of the land value from present to 2.0
{v good question.
In fact it shd hv bn in the staff report!
The intention or practice is/was that for proposed changes, the Uplift amt shd be given.
(The Uplift applies to the increase in the land value. Higher density of course increases the value b/c of what can be built.)}
KG: not prepared to answer that
{Wonder why not, hm?
As an architect he obviously knows. Obviously, admitting the increase in value wd not help his argument, however.
Why wdn't staff step in and say or why not ask staff???}
from 2008 at 1.75 nothing has happened; Grosvenor is 3.0
recognize there's a problem with the plan; seems this wd be reasonable
CC: 1.75, and 2.0 failure?
KG: loss of devt potential
CC: ecic viability; not asking about viability; nil at 1.75 but totally at 2.0?
{he caught that return}
KG: has been interested at 2.0
Sop: sounds like a bit of a sales job to me
{he lobbed that one too}
prior to mtg 21st, why are we doing first reading?
GB: first reading before public hearing
Sop moved:
1. Zoning Bylaw ..., for property located at 1821 Marine Dr attached to the report from the Sr Cmnty Planner and the Mgr of Cmnty Planning dated Nov 29 be introduced and read a first time; and
[unanimous]
2. The M Clerk be directed to give statutory notice that a Public Hearing is scheduled for Monday January 21
CC: wondering about 1.75 not and 2.0 [8:33]
wonder if approach on a case by case basis or Amb
GB: asked applicant to demonstrate potential of lost density
did; if others came forward wd all same
this xxx is a good one xxx
have we got it right, density we're looking at?
CC: so your answer is you're going to look at that?
Sop: recall the owner at that time; upset he got caught; many small bldgs cd come forward
odd prop that needs a bit of a look
you know Ms Boyle/Booth? there are bldgs and many years and not going to change; this prop shd be looked at
look fwd
MAB: have a look at this as part of the larger picture
tenants in the more dilapidated parts of Amb
landlords sitting on their props six-month leases; waiting to find out [height, Grosvenor]
what makes it economically appealing
6mo leases do not encourage investment or longterm
that's why more than we can ever use in nail salons and xxx [8:37]
Mayor: it'll be coming back Jan 21st PH; motion carries; anybody want to speak to that? no one, will call question
{didn't catch who against; will have to check minutes when they come out for Jan 14 mtg}
Mayor: don't need a motion; Ccl interest in what's going on; will be coming back with suggestions
look at what we have currently in place for Amb
[8:38]
10. Applicability of a Community Amenity Contribution for the Rezoning and Development Permit Application No. 12-059 for 1455 Bellevue Avenue (File: 1010-20-12-059)
RECOMMENDED MOTION (was tabled):
THAT the proposed rezoning and Devt Permit for the Walker Building, advance in the devt approval process based on a CAC not being applied where additional floor area for office space is being created.
GB: SLIDE, called Walker Place (late 80s)
fairly signif renovation adding 14K sf
increase is nec; [SLIDE] shows the height
Staff has not yet completed the full review of this prop; just this part
to ensure ev has the same understanding re CAC policy
recognized scale, reflect size of project but to OCP and objectives
ecic activity vital to revitalization
speaks to ecic revitalization
Amb Vision Strategy AC1 and AC2 and had density bonusing built in
highest rate charged for resid only proj and lowest for resid comm; no rate for all comm
{that's what you get with biz ppl on a cmte; I always suggest and fight to have ratepayer/resident representation -- and sometimes successful!
OTOH, it is reasonable commercial as the third category be lower still -- but not get off scot-free!
There is Uplift after all.}
key component of revit; stimulus from ofc
the applicant is present to address Ccl
lMayor: welcome back, Ms Walker
[Former Cclr] Shannon Walker: our architect discovered to our surprise CACs do not apply to commercial bldgs
done a little bit of research and CACs don't apply to any commercial projects anywhere in MetroV
{Sorry,but NOT TRUE. GP's research found that eight of the 14 Metro Vancouver municipalities apply CAC policy to commercial bldgs. We are perturbed by the attempts to mislead Ccl, the misinformation, and the "creative" use of language in Ms Walker's presentation.}
so it wd set a precedent
also not charged on renovations, this isn't a newbuild; it's an enhancement, and expansion on our current bldg
you've all been in the building; 25 years old, starting to fail
assessment done yr and a half ago, got to go through some major renovations: to fix the envelope, to replace mechanical systems....
8 mos ago approached by a tenant, want to move from downtown to NSh; wants 10Ksf; can't get that in WV; only soln b/c want to be in our bldg, is to expand.
opp to bring in a new ofc with 50 to 60 ppl, spending money in our cmnty, and for the retailers on Bellevue and MDr, so imp
we've calculated what the Uplift in prop tax to the District will be ~ $100K a year
{oops! that's NOT what Uplift is! Uplift is the increase in value of the land as a result of upzoning.
Any increase in tax revenue is not called Uplift.}
figure pegging $1-200K from ppl spending money in the cmnty, restaurants, and retailers...
{let's see. Say 50 ppl spending $150K = so each spending a little over $3K each a year on Bellevue and MDr?
and if shoppers can't find parking, how many $ not spent?}
huge start in revitalization of Ambleside, and since I know it's this Ccl's commitment to see something happen in Amb; this project is key
opp that doesn't come along v often
read quote from a city planner in Vancouver
wrt CACs on ofc we have not been taking any; the Bentell project on Thurlow, the ofc component on Telus Garden, the Credit Suisse devt, and the Oxford devt have all been approved by Ccl with no CACs payable.
{Sorry; just not true! GP has bn doing the research and will present $s in January. Briefly, $millions!}
quite frankly we're v happy and lucky to just have the added job capacity and tax base and I think that says it all on the process of the CAC evaluation
I'd love to get into the debate on the rezoning, but I know that's not my place any more, but I certainly wd be happy to sit on that WG
b/c it's time, and to your point Cclr Cam, if you want to see a shovel in the ground, if you want to see something happen, Ccl has to take a stand and say we're committed to Amb and we're going to support the retailers, the servicers [?], and landlords in the nbrhd to get things done.
thank you
[8:45] Mayor: sounds like you're campaigning
[laughter]
SW: no, I'm not
Mayor: conclude your presentation? b/c someone to speak
George Pajari: Thank you very much, Your Worship.
Mayor and Council.
My name is George Pajari and I live at 2545 Queens Avenue.
With respect to this matter of Community Amenity Contribution, I urge Council to move Option 3 of the staff report and deny the application to waive CAC.
I'll remind Council that your policy states "the value of the amenity being provided shall reflect a percentage of the increased value of the land" [Section 2.5 of DWV's Public Amenity Contribution Policy #02-80-303]
It mentions nothing about exemptions for business.
It says nothing about the policy only applying to certain types of buildings and not to others.
It clearly states that amenity contributions "shall reflect a percentage of the increased value of the land".
And let's take a look at what's being asked for.
The developer has a building that currently has an FAR of 1.44. This already exceeds the maximum already permitted for this zone. The report is misleading when it states that the maximum is 1.75. If you go back and read the AC zoning bylaw it states the maximum is 1.0 but, in certain circumstances, it may be increased above 1.0. So this building is already in excess of the maximum that Council wishes to see, except in extenuating circumstances. And they are asking to increase it from the already 1.44 to 2.16. This is a 50% increase in the density of this lot. The land, just the land under this building, under its current zoning, is worth almost $8 million. So it is not unreasonable to suggest that with prime waterfront commercial land that if you increase the density by 50%, the value of the land alone might go up by 50%. So we're looking at a requested increase in density worth up to $4 million.
And so what is the recommendation in the report?
That there be an amenity of, say, 75%? 50%?
No! The report suggests you give it away.
$4 million dollars [worth of bonus density] for nothing!
And how did they arrive at this astounding conclusion?
Because buried in the zoning bylaw it provides a formula for amenity contribution based on square footage for residential, and for mixed residential/commercial. But there is no formula for entirely commercial buildings. One might think that if there is no formula, then the other part of your policy applies, the part that says you look at how much the land value increases and you base your amenity on that and not on square footage.
But no! Your report says, no formula -- no amenity.
Isn't that like walking into Future Shop and seeing a big-screen TV without a price tag and walking out the door with it because it's got no price tag, it must be free.
So I ask you to reject the application and that you ask staff to meet with the applicant to come up with a fair amenity contribution. It doesn't have to be money, I think some of the comparisons made in the presentations to other situations in which no money was turned over where not necessarily reasonable as other contributions of a non-financial nature were made, which is perfectly acceptable under your policy.
But please stick to your policy which says if you are giving up millions in Uplift {CBs}, you'd like something back for the community. So option 3, deny the [application].
Thank you very much. [8:49]
CC: seems to me CAC policy doesn't speak to diff land use
GB: correct; doesn't mention
{CC catches it; GB doesn't put in her report}
CC: GP took us through ... ; looks like policy you can read into it what you want
{One reader commented:The policy is less than three pages long. Planning staff not clear?}
AC2, calculation is contained
GB: zoning bylaw deals with AC1 and AC2
CC: 100% comm not mentioned
GB: correct
resid highest rate, mixed comm a lower rate; so clearly consideration given to land use
CC: presumably comm lesser
{eminently reasonable}
when AC1 zoning was passed; was there a consideration behind 100%
when something is absent in law, it was an oversight or intentional?
GB: wish I cd quote from a report
the consistency in devt and planning; land uses and revit???
those things all fall together; 100% wd bring jobs and xxx
CC: confirm other Vanc and Ms charging?
GB: afraid I'm not, wd hv to do a survey
{another good question -- why survey not done? they only asked Vancouver a specific question.
Took me over 15 years to get a DWV Ccl to admit there was such a thing as Uplift. One of the examples I used was in fact from Vancouver. They gave me an instance in wch they charged 110% for CBs (Cmnty Benefits). Surprised, I asked why. They said b/c Uplift applies only to the resulting increase in the value of the land and this devt was in hte millions so they wd make a lot on the actual structure. FYI, the percentage I suggested in WV was 75% -- a reasonable amt in my view to be paid to residents. The devpr wd have to pay the full amt to buy the property with the upzoning, so devprs are still getting a 25% discount and taxpayers/residents get some recompense for permitting/agreeing to the upzoning..... Sound good to you?}
TP: ask the applicant if there's a CAC, whether jeopardize the project
{what a leading question: gimme gimme}
SW: taking off facade
not same revenue for ofc; not ecic uplift for the landlord
{er, um, not the question}
trying to keep our tenants in biz during renov
xxx; rain screen technology
chance to retrofit the building; enhance and make it more sustainable
solar panels, piping
so down back lane for M ... ; enhancement
TP: any conversation around in-kind amenities? solar etc above what we expect?
SW: we've tried to reach out
[electric] car charging; car charge in the back of the bldg; still an option; bike racks
gain in sustainable
time, some things have to happen in Amb; given the zoning, v difficult
Sop: xxx go fwd to the applicant?
GB: wd defer to SWalker
SW: don't know what the xxx wd be
GB: $750K
{is $750K the magic CAC amt this week?
WVF is only going from 1.75 to 2.0 and GB said the CAC amt wd be $750K
The Walker Building is 1.44FAR now (1.0 is allowed presently but can go to 1.75 in certain cases) however this increase is to 2.16FAR -- a 50% increase!
Not only is it a much greater upzoning than WVF, strange to mention the same CAC $ amt, but also even ludicrous to recommend NO cmnty amenities!!!}
SW: then we wdn't do it
{implied blackmail? In any case, if they don't think purchasing the extra density is worth it, then unwise. Shd not expect simply to be given a gift, paying the community/residents nothing. OTOH, seems reasonable that the formula be something like 3X for residential, 2X for resid/comm combined, and 1X for commercial -- or something similar......}
Sop: since 2008
bn a v unique building, one of the most modern; that's public amenity to some degree
what I see, see in future; space in front takes away space from the owner
see any in-kind ?
SW: streetscapes
opp surrounding the bldg, and in the back lane (cd hv bn enhanced)
participate in streets
head ofc for 25 yrs, wd like it to be for next 25 years; something v special to live and work in WV
cd rent out ev day; one of the lowest rates in LM we don't have; easiest way to attract ppl
Mayor: being asked to go to
{if THEY choose!! (ie Ccl). Aren't WV's biz taxes about the lowest in the Lower Mainland? (Belcarra's are lower, but they're so v tiny.)}
GB: yes
Mayor: perfect
MAB: does the CAC speak to new rather than renovations
{Some consider calling a 50% increase in density a "renovation" is a creative use of language :-) }
GB: interesting question; new rather than redevt; so may be gap in zoning
{Well, I guess Does seem to indicate that that doc was not completely or properly designed/written....}
{rather bold request!}
MAB: am in favour of revitalizing Amb
{we all are! that's not debatable -- it's what kind, how much, and paying residents a proportion of the increase in value being granted.}
do believe best use of existing land within the OCP; tolerance for add'l density
Walker ofc bldg prob'ly the nicest of bldgs we have; not surprised
the report spoke to fairness, whether downzoning? compelling for sure
not as clear on, looking for further from staff
whether CACs are applied in Metro to comm props
not clear on new vs reno
when rezoning granted? that increases density there's a [9:04] xxxxx local govt and a devpr
unfortunately not a lot of historical context; CAC not all that clear
{Not clear? but not rocket science -- the policy is less than three pages......}
if it was intentionally excluded what was the rationale; as a lawyer I wd have liked to see
not b/c of x, y, and x ??? so have to guess wch leaves me uncomfortable
need more info; not convinced it shd be applied
Sop: agree with MBooth
a policy not more than 3 to 5 years; whether the policy spells out ev
amenities came in about the time of the zoning
my hopes staff wd enlighten us with this
possible look at in-kind solns, wd help in future; sure we're not clear on this policy
hv seen devts in the past with diff formulas have upset me
this one comes along and no xxx CAC
benefit is ofc space, design, xxx does that make up for money?
this Ccl with three or four new, that policy spells out
NG: confused; you two moved and seconded, so now against, not clear
Mayor: don't need to be clear
:-)
NG: ?
CC: hear Booth requesting a variance, asking add'l information
Mayor; read
Mayor: as written; recommended
NG: b/c I didn't get my questions in earlier
a compelling argument for many reasons; intellectually and otherwise difficult
haven't thought about it as long as we need to
what about a precedent?
compelling for this locn; owners perhaps willing amenity later
{???}
floodgates
GB: first -- dealing with Amb; from a broad policy; standard approach
for the thinking
have that sort of consistency
as in the case of Grosvenor
rest of Amb; certainty was the approach
haven't surveyed the other Ms; certainly something we can bring forward
{why not done in preparation for Ccl's (obvious and easily anticipated) questions?}
or proj allowed to go forward and next xxx??? to Ccl
NG: interested in some arguments
... re land value
GB: xxx
Mayor: one possible -- table?
{another good suggestion to break the logjam}
Sop so move
CC: second?
ML: xxx couple
while interesting to know about other Ms
we have an applicant wants to make xxxxx
you have told us CACs do not apply to xxx
{hm... were you listening? -- didn't the developer tell you that, not staff?}
whether or not that's approp is a discussion for another day
issue, to provide some clarity whether this applies
and I haven't heard that it does
that being the case; I don't know why we wd not pass this
{ML wants to give away increased density free??? In any case, MAB will clarify why}
the bigger challenge will be around
change the roles is another discuss
playing by the rules this Ccl by default or omission, but they are what they are
{er, um, they're NOT playing by the rules -- if they were, they wdn't need a rezoning, would they?
in any case, what's Ccl's interpretation or will???}
Mayor: reality is... not [sure?]
several spoke and all request further information
Mayor: xxx
SSch: xxx
Mayor: do you want to speak to tabling motion?
Sop: opening out ... that's approp
rather table and have info; rather than turn it down; tabling will get back as quickly as poss
xxx; maybe answer Mr [Pajari?]
SSch: xxx
ML: debate on
SSch: can we debate on tabling?
???
{interesting; she says can; a recent change b/c previously as soon as tabling was moved, it was just the vote, no discussion allowed.}
CC: ML sensitive
some but the amt of time
I wd prefer to have
ackn to comm space has to be thought xxx need a break for comm builders
totally without doubt, merely gone and done what the policy says
{of course}
no shenanigans about the request; better practice to have a policy
change or not, make it clear; policy we have is totally inadequate
new vs reno -- adding floors new, paving? a reno
adding density -- obviously a new bldg
adding signif density
better practice to come forward with a clear policy and then vote
mindful of the policy
confusing talking about in-kind if proponent willing to do that
{isn't that a big IF? how many owners wd willingly pay/give money over to M?}
compromise
in-kind or in dollars; totally acceptable soln
{maybe so, but surely negotiated -- and in public}
don't want to put this off but case of getting clarity
not against the concept of this proposal or giving comm a break, but shd do in a logical motion
{yup!}
Mayor: on tabling
TP: not opp earlier
opps for in-kind; in light of the ecic benefit
but we're not exploring that at this situation
lot of issues don't have to do; longstanding biz
leaders in xxx brought that fwd [9:21]
Mayor: I'm not going past 10 o'clock
MAB : [want to?] hear some clear
staff wd not have brought this to us if it were clear
{nailed it! Exactly. Wd just have proceeded, no question, no choice b/c policy}
this is just interpreting; staff bringing to us, tells me there isn't clarity, that's why
if clear we'd have DP
{yup!}
TABLED
Mayor: give staff some direction for January
xxx [9:24]
11. Public Safety Building (File: 0500-01)
RECOMMENDED: THAT
1. The report entitled Public Safety Building dated Dec 3, be received for information.
2. (a) The budget for soft costs for the PSB for Nov and Dec of $165,000 (excluding HST and as set out in Appendix 1 to the report dated Dec 3) be approved, with funding to be provided in a manner consistent with the funding approach previously approved by Council for the PSB project, namely through the net proceeds of sale of District-owned lands which are deposited in the Endowment Fund.
(b) Staff report back to Council with a budget amendment bylaw to amend the 2012 District Budget.
3. (a) The budget for soft costs for the Public Safety Building for all of 2013 of $3,645,000 (excluding HST and as set out in Appendix 1 to the report dated December 3, 2012) be approved, with funding to be provided in a manner consistent with the funding approach previously approved by Council for the PSB project, namely through the net proceeds of sale of District-owned lands which are deposited in the Endowment Fund.
(b) Staff report back to Council with a budget amendment bylaw to amend the 2013 District Budget.
4. Staff report back to Council in early 2013 with a 2013 budget for hard construction costs for the PSB after a demolition and construction schedule has been prepared by the design team for Council approval.
5. Notwithstanding Ccls approval on July 23, 2012, of a $36M target budget for the PSB project, Staff report back to Ccl periodically to request Ccl approval for specific funding releases for each major phase of the project.
6. While the District has confirmed that the entire PSB can be funded through one or a combination of: the Endowment Fund; land sales; other internal financing; financing from the Municipal Finance Authority; or tax, Staff report back to Council in 2013 with a recommended funding source for Council approval for the entire PSB project before entering into any construction contracts and commencing construction.
Mark Chan: made substantial progress; after selection process has engaged Dialogue Architects and Pivotal Project Mgmt for the PSB
They, Staff, and external experts will start on design process
Report sets out background, roles, budget info, funding release, and process for reporting to Ccl and public
will speak briefly on four items: the recommended motions; the funding release model; the public reporting process; and next steps.
funding for Nov/Dec and all of 2013 = $3.8M
draw attention to recommended motion No 5 on p1 of the report, relates the funding release model
notwithstanding Ccl's approval on July 23, 2012 of a $36M target budget for the PSB, staff report back to Ccl periodically for specific funding releases for each major phase of the project.
Imp motion b/c even though approved and even soft cost budget tonight, staff cannot spend the total or soft-costs budget
staff must return, repeated in paragraphs 4.16 to 4.18 on p 11
recommends using UBC Properties Trust model; approval required for contracts with Dialogue and Pivot
first funding request approved by Ccl in Nov 2012 for $495K for soft costs up to the end of the schematic design phase
After, staff will request a further funding release for soft costs up to the end of construction drawings and add'l funding releases for work thereafter
This stepwise approach as opposed to {a} one-time lump sum funding release approach is designed to enhance Ccl and the District's financial control, and transparency in the budget process
Recs 4 and 6 are also important
Motion No 4 provides staff will come back to Ccl in early 2013, with the 2013 budget for hard construction costs after a demolition and construction schedule hs bn prepared for Ccl's approval
Motion No 6 -- project can be funded through a number of options, staff will report back to Ccl in 2013 with a recommended funding source for the entire project before entering into any construction contracts and commencing construction
Paragraph 4.19 explains staff reports to Ccl and public monthly
the Report will follow an established template and will provide an update on the status budget and timeline
Paragraph 4.20 sets up the next steps and the main next step if for the design team to prepare massing option; they will be presented to Ccl and the public in early 2013 in an open house led by the architects
The architects will then consider the input from the public, Ccl, staff, and users and devp a recommended massing option for Ccl consideration
We'll report back to Ccl monthly; the next report to Ccl will be in January, and monthly thereafter.
Mayor: thank you; have two mbrs of public wish to speak; does any mbr of Ccl wish to speak?
CC: concerned about amt of money budged, asked to approve for 2013 -- $3.8M. We've already spent a bit over $1M so far on the PSB, and we're being asked to allocate notionally, know we need to approve, but another $3.8M wch put us $5M into the project
[9:29] think it's fair to say -- suppose q rather than comment
why nec to approve elements past design $815K; why nec right now to approve construction doc/admin; seems premature to allocate $2.2M... $300K ... seems premature to allocate $2.5M
MC: over $1M reference to report in last Ccl mtg; that report set out expenditures since 2010 on various initiatives including sale of M lands, and related admin and overhead
costs directly related to PSB on the order of $200K to reach this approved stage -- one element of your Q and will speak to the others
the report recommends approval of 2013 budget and includes Nov/Dec 2012
that's so we can provide public with a full year budget; the approval of $3.8M in no way authorizes staff to expend the entire $3.8M or expend funds wrt creation of construction docs
approval is purely for the budget purpose
we're recommending using the funding release model (used by UBC Prop Trust), means authorization only for $495K schematic design
after schematic design back for approval; and request approval for next phase, design devt; after that, approval for construction docs; a stepwise approach
reason not breaking into small pieces; consistent with overall 2013 budget; compatible approach
3rd, it's conventional and in line with industry practice as it is transparent...
understand concern carte blanche therefore No 5
one last point: logistically challenges to break 2013 budget into each of the four phases; wd require an add'l three budget amendment bylaws, each budget amendment bylaw requires two ccl mtgs (three readings and adoption); this means it wd take an add'l one month each time to amend after getting approval for each funding release
Mayor: does that answer your Q?
CC: partially, but you'd have to come back anyway
propose wd only have to come back one time whereas if don't, hv to come back two times
{yup; he caught Chan's exaggeration}
Mayor: think Ms L is going to help us here
NL: one of the issues wrt the PSB; we continue to move along in not a fragmented but for a continued
transparency perspective; at this point hv a clear direction; already a bit late b/c brought 2013 forward; we will be coming forward with a budget amendment
clear what the .... around that
[for public?] another level of transparency wch we haven't had to this point only b/c we haven't had clear direction we have now
CC: problem I have, is is it part of the workplan b/c it depends on how we proceed with the PSB, depends on revenue we have, from land sales, if that is the case, there's a sort of contingent element to it
not putting the cart before the horse; financial obligations will impact ability to make other decisions clearly
NL: think direction clear to move forward with PSB, functional programming schematic design, funding models coming forward
whether to move fwd with the project itself, we have clear direction from Ccl to do so
Sop: not the first time we've done this; came in on budget
[another case] came back when construction cost came back $5M over
you've done an excellent job spelling out concerns
logically moving forward; into public process; well-researched, you've laid down for me several areas of concerns, answers to
look at infrastructure under the ground so we don't have to move gas lines and other things to the perimeter wch is costly
{thinking of Cmnty Ctr; resulted in higher cost}
when the PSB allows for an atrium and connection to this bldg
going to have to look for monies for this building...
bring in atrium and then what?
there are associated costs; going to have some financial feedback on that part
Mayor: that a question? do you want him to confirm that
Sop: want him to confirm what I said wrt the two questions I asked
Mayor: brief; we've got 22 min and we have two mbrs of the public
Sop: I was v short compared to--
Mayor: you've been wonderful, so let's just leave it at that
MC: point one is noted and we will be addressing that; pt two wrt atrium, yes we'll be looking at that and to potential works on this bldg, but as part of a separate project.
Mayor: any more questions for staff or can we hear from the two mbrs of the public. The first one is--
CC: I have one more question for staff
wch is the motion that Ccl made that approves going forward with the construction drawings? part of 2013 workplan
MC: Ccl has not made a motion to specifically approve proceeding with construction drawings
Ccl has made motions for staff to authorize/continue with design of the PSB
CC: on July 23rd we said take the next step in the planning process by issuing an RFP for an architect and proj mgmt -- that's the last one I remember making a motion on
so that's my concern
NL: also needs to be broader discussion, not this evening, on process -- how construction will go forward
natural progression is as Mr Chan has laid it out
Ccl has ability to ask questions and to delve into the details but in terms of getting direction of moving fwd; a motion ev step of the way, that wd be a v diff process from what we envisioned.
CC: I think we need to have a sober point at wch we start incurring costs in the millions to start with construction-type elements; design is one thing, I'm comfortable with that; it's when it turns construction it's a pivotal point, and I'd put construction drawings under that rubric
MC: we'll be coming back after the schematic design phase to ask for approval to proceed with the next phase of design devt $815K, then constr docs at $2.2M, and then const admin at $300K.
understand concern about committing to the project; at this point $495K before we commence any proj we will come back to Ccl and we will have sev cost estimates -- docs to you for your consideration
Mayor: okay now we have to hear from two mbrs of public. George Pajari -- but I see Carolanne Reynolds is also signed; and then Ccl if we want more debate on this, see mbrs of in the audience here for No. 12 who have sat patiently; if still unclear, we're going to have to table this one too; allow those re Hollyburn Lodge too
Go ahead, Carolanne; sorry, Ms Reynolds
CR: Sorry, I didn't know George had signed up.
I appreciate all the different qualifications Mr Chan's motion had. I had one of the same concerns that Cclr Cameron has mentioned in that if you haven't actually approved the 1300blk, there is a small, I guess you'd say, of uncertainty so the only question I have for you tonight b/c you confirmed last week that you wd still have options wrt leasing and selling, or selling to them buy other prop whatever, with all of these motions, if it passes tonight, will you still have options whether lease or sale?
MAB: I'm going to recuse myself
[leaves]
Mayor: okay
I don't know where you're going with this, Ms Reynolds, we have an agreement, think we've said 50 times, we have an agreement in place with Grosvenor to sell the prop if Ccl rezones and approves the design.
If that doesn't go ahead, we have lots of options, yes.
CR: Right. And several times at the public mtg June 20, cclrs said that they are completely open, they have not made a decision of what they're going to do.
Mayor: our minds are always wide open
CR: all I want to know is, do you still have your options?
Mayor: We always have our options
{Now you know. Told 50 times agreed to sell; then confirms still have options. (!)
So if open mind, leasing's still an option, hm?}
Mr Pajari [9:44]
George Pajari: I'll be very quick now owing to the time. I just want to speak to the issue of the funding model.
As your Director of Finance has stated, the discussions of the finance funding model behind the PSB are yet to be canvassed fully and I don't think the community has had an opportunity to discuss this fully. I won't get into my two-minute presentation on why the funding model that we are sliding towards is wrong but I would ask that the funding part of Part 3 of your motion be deferred, in other words, if you elect to proceed with the recommended motion, go right ahead, but remove the part that says you're going to fund it this way or that way, until you have the report from Part 6.
In other words, I'm very worried about an incremental decision on the funding model. We're going to fund first $400,000, then we'll fund $3,000,000 this way, and we'll end up having funded the whole thing without having explicitly made a decision on the funding model.
So I'm asking Council to take the funding part of Part 3 and defer it until you have the report from Part 6, at which time I will come back and tell you how I think you should fund it. Thank you very much.
Mayor: Always happy to hear that.... your advice Mr. Pajari.
{See George's letter to Council at the start of the Dec 12 ccl mtg notes.}
Mayor: defer; know staff anxious; move or table
CC: I have legal hearing Wed
Mayor: tabled to Wed; motion carries
[9:46]
12. Hollyburn Lodge Restoration Funding Strategy (File: 0591-20-LODGE)
RECOMMENDED: THAT Council receive the DepCAOs report dated Dec 10, and that Council direct that $150,000 be included in the 2014 budget specifically for Hollyburn Lodge Restoration.
Mayor: will be our last [item]
BL: will be brief; Don Grant reminds me bn waiting 20 years, so three hours not a problem
Report will to move forward, $1M restoration, desperate need; there is $100K in a legacy fund; look to fund that in 2014 the proposed construction year; fundraising year 2013 hence the request for the District contribution of $150K to be funded 2014 but committed now
so $250K committed roughly a quarter of the funding required to restore the lodge; continue in earnest with mbrs of cmnty and HHS, make sure successful
in 2013 ready for 2014
ML: if fundraising wildly successful, M's $150K not nec
cd we amend this motion in a manner that reflects that?
Seems odd to me, we're going to go out and do fundraising and if raise $1M from other sources, why wd District want to
BL: full bench press
none of us wd mind that the recomm be amended to up to $150K but that is a firm commitment, sealing on that
ML: my point is, wd like to see more money raised so the draw from the M coffers is reduced
b/c if such a great idea, the public shd rally behind it and step up to the mark
starting to look like United Way, our cost of fundraising exceeding revenue we're bringing in
striving for success, amt go to taxpayer is minimized
Mayor: attacked from all sides
Sop: up there 50s and 60s, 70s and 80s, then in 1998--
Mayor: --what about the 30s and 40s?
Sop: wasn't there then; we started the campaign
Iola and Gordon Knight had black hair when we started this consideration; toured it recently; toured it in 1998, up there sev times
passion to take something of heritage value and move along with it; finally got to a consensus the District might receive this as a, what do you call it, Mr Leigh?
BL: a heritage asset
Sop: presentations of late; I think we shd go ahead; I know the money will be there
I'm cautious of spending money, as Cclr Lewis and anybody else; this initiative has been hanging around for years; timely, done all the cabin work?
Mayor: are you asking a question or making motion?
Sop: gotta give a little plug here
MAB or TP?: happy to put motion on the floor
Sop: go ahead
CC: got some questions
NG?: happy to second it
Mayor: let's get the motion on the floor first. Got a question?
CC: yes. There's a $1.5M est for restoration from 2006 -- washrooms, sprinklers, xxx; what's staff's best advice whether that still accurate?
BL: $1 to 1.5M; from a restoration to a rebuild; interest of Hollyburn Heritage Society is to strive for restoration
on a night we don't do editorializing, I'll say hv had experience with (professional) restoration; and think this can be done
mindful District has a cap, not to exceed; we'll work on that v diligently
best info we have is that $1M reasonable at the restoration, will be looking at that, coming back to Ccl
asked to commit $150K for 2014 so can carry this with Parks and District and Cypress; early biz platform
CC: so in answer to my Q, $1.5M still accurate or you don't know?
BL: don't know
CC: $150K asked for, unclear; added to total cost of the building or spent on fundraising?
BL: specifically to the bldg and to the beginning of the fundraising effort along with the $100K; it wd result in $250K committed for the beginning of the fundraising
CC: 3rd Q; haven't seen any doc; wondering if staff or anyone done any work on a biz case
we know our capital infrastructure not being maintained -- Mr Wong can speak to that; big bucks for that; concerned about adding another bldg to the inventory
operating or biz costs?
BL: historically Cypress Bowl has operated the cafeteria during the winter months
looking at developing an operating pro forma, our own, with our own progs
integrated progs with Hollyburn Ridge; come back with biz case and operating plan ... also restoration; will be delivered through 2013 year
CC: last Q, if not raised will $150K, those funds, come back to the District
BL: specific use of the funds for restoration wd only be for that.
if wd not succeed; the District wd be withdrawing its funding
CC: presumably by a certain date
BL: yes
Mayor: need motion extend mtg, to finish only Item 12
CARRIED
so we can continue past 10 o'clock
get to the motion
TP: direct up to $150K included in 2014 budget specifically for Hollyburn Lodge restoration
it's an unusual way to do this, 2014, but a long time; imp put something on b/c kickoff and wish them tremendous success
ML: as written or modified to "up to"?
TP: I can modify including "up to"
DONE
{Sop saying had seconded already}
CC: voting against, don't have biz case; no updated construction cost; adding another piece to our inventory, not the right way to do it; don't have financials -- gotta make decision on clear financials; Ccl Panz says this is a key piece of the fundraising, with respect, don't believe it is
I believe the Dist can say will be supportive if proj gets close, already funds starting off, will succeed or fail on own merits not District's; whether District kicks in 10% -- not going to affect the success of the fundraising efforts
Sop: that's your opinion
Mayor: hold it now, Cclr G is next, then we'll to you
NG: have to disagree with Cclr Cam on this one; issue is near and dear to my heart
we're making a motion to add $150K a year from now -- still going to debate the budget; then vote
this will allow the group to go forward; to show our goodwill, for it to get going
wish you the best of luck; it's about time
Sop: I agree; a little bit of stimulus to get moving on this; how long are we going to have this hanging around? how much dedication of folks that have looked at something that's been a heritage value for years
Don presented to us the history if you were up there; fundamentally to say some things we hold proud in this cmnty, one of them is the heritage value of some of these bldgs
time to move on this
if we see things, Cclr Cam, no good, they we can back off; report from Mr Leigh, front and centre
ML: with friendly amendment; up to a $150K; we actually are not committing money definitively in the 2014 budget; a function of deliverables
review during that budget cycle period
{mic off; can't hear}
if not on track, the amt isn't $150K
Mayor: well, uh, just a minute, Cclr Booth
MAB: I have to disagree with my learned friend over there; does send a strong signal to the cmnty that we support this proj
I had a great tour
only remaining ski lodge on the NSh from this era; is a treasure in the cmnty; sense that, saw that; strong msg to the cmnty; a principle isn't a principle until you spend money, they say
msg this is worthy of funding; It's one thing to send a letter but another money; sends msg to the cmnty
this is a worthy structure and worthy of funding; we do have influence in the cmnty
the other piece from my tour of the area; these bldgs are not getting any younger; concerned about deterioration and about District cabins too; know a report coming from staff; enough off sometime in the future; have to be definitive; put our money where our mouth is
I'm prepared to do that tonight
Sop: call the question
Mayor: bn asked to call the question; in favour?
Motion carries unanimously -- congratulations to the HHS.
A couple of quick things before we adjourn
Need a motion for the special mtg Wed 10am Dec 12
DONE
{Though curtailing ccl mtg, the Mayor did allow PQP before adjournment}
We did have one person who signed up for PQP
SSlater: and may I?
Mayor: as long as you guarantee less than two minutes and you shd be standing right beside the chair
[10:06]
CR (the one who'd signed up): v kind of you, Mayor Smith
Before, what they used to do is for ppl waiting they'd 15 min--
Mayor: don't tell me what they used to--
CR: okay I won't, okay
First thing is the Website Group's mtg is not the Calendar.
thank you for the report from Cclr Cam but the one that was held last Thursday [Dec 6] is still not on the Calendar
so to whom wd I direct questions about the website and will it be on the Calendar in future?
Secondly, the ULWG mtg was also not on the Calendar until today, so I'd like you to look at how long before a mtg it shd go on the calendar so that the public wd have some idea. It's great to say they're welcome if they don't what it is but they don't know when it is, maybe only a few hours beforehand. Doesn't really help much.
The Coach House item was really v good. I'd be willing to set up a mtg with various grps if that wd help -- you don't have to go around to various ones so I'd be happy to do that.
It is unreasonable for ppl, for example, who live in Shaughnessy to expect, to demand, diversity of housing there so they can all live there. What I'd suggest is that, yes, look at the diversity , but you might also want to look at the area so there'd be areas that wd hv diversity and areas that wd maintain their character, and that wd address Cclr Lewis's concern as well.
Thank you for the budget
Merry Christmas
Mayor: Merry Christmas to you; thank you for that
and we have our Communications guru in the audience who's making notes about the errors in the website.
go ahead, Scenery [Slater]
Scenery Slater: 1300blk; proposal one of the biggest things to happen in Amb
Cclr Gambioli at another mtg had suggested maybe a pole cd be erected to demonstrate the potential height
I wd like to ask Ccl, much cheaper alternative, consider putting up an advertising balloon. They're only about $57, I priced them.
If that wd be put up on the site, at the highest points of the bldgs, it wd give the public not a complete picture, but a better idea of what is being proposed for that site.
I wd ask Ccl they consider that.
Mayor: We're considering the pole idea but looking for someone to hold it
LAUGHTER
Sop, putting on a Santa Claus cap: Season's greetings to all and to all a good night!
NB: REST DEFERRED TO 10am Wed Dec 12
THIS:
13. Proposed 2013 Council Meeting Schedule (File: 0120-01)RECOMMENDED: as attached to the report dated Dec 3, from the Mgr, Legislative Services be approved.
{oh, moan and groan -- back to mtgs every Monday night.....}
FROM HERE to end:
14. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
=== COUNCIL NOTES Special Mtg Wednesday December 12 ===
10:00 AM
Cclr Cameron absent
1. Call to Order.
Mayor: resume Monday's mtg; ask Cclr Sop to move approval of agenda
2. Approval of December 12, 2012 Special Council Meeting Agenda
Sop: so move
Mayor: seconded by Cclr Lewis
Sop: oh, suppose I shd read it out
Mayor: everybody loves to hear you talk, so go ahead
Sop: as written, Item 2
Mayor: sufficient, Ms Scholes? I presume it is
[MClk: yes]
Mayor: passes unanimously
REPORTS
{Since George Pajari could not attend this meeting, he sent the following email to each Councillor individually shortly after midnight before the meeting. Unfortunately no one thought to comment on his request to defer the funding decision.
Dear Mayor and Council:
Unfortunately time pressures Monday prevented me from providing anything more than a perfunctory summary of my concerns about one aspect of this "omnibus funding bill" so I'm writing since I cannot participate in today's continuation of Monday's meeting.
Council has been saying for some time that no final decision has been made with respect to the funding of the new Public Safety Building. Indeed, part 6 of this resolution says as much, and furthermore, asks staff to report back to Council on the appropriate funding model(s) to
consider.
Given that, why does part 3(a) state that almost four million dollars in soft costs are to be covered by land sales? Doesn't paying for roughly 10% of the building's costs using one source bias the entire process? Isn't it putting the cart before the horse -- we're asking staff to consider all possible funding models but in the interim we're spending money as fast as needed by selling off land?
What's the rush? The commitment to pay for the soft costs can be made now, and work proceed, without making an irrevocable decision on how to fund this work.
So I would ask Council either to defer the decision on determining the funding source (but not defer the work required) and if that is not possible, _*borrow*_ (not take) the money from the Endowment fund until such time as the community can make its preferences known with respect
to funding the new PSB. }
3. Public Safety Building (File: 0500-01)
Mayor: one mbr of the public wishes to speak, Dave Roach
DR: earlier this morning I sent you email, dealt with concerns of Cclr Cam on Dec 10, I share those concerns, as indicated in the letter; I hope you in possession of the letter
Mayor: I was working out until 5 to 10 so I haven't seen the letter, just letting you know
DR: I understand
design projs of this nature, carefully structured and follow a particular phasing [named them]
at ea pt where designer has completed a phase; at each point client decision to stop or go fwd
stopping pts, those are natural pts can authorize further expenditure
Cclr Cam's concern and mine; recom Mr Chan put fwd in his report shd be modified, an amendment bylaw be brought fwd for each of the three phases.
1 schematic design 2 expenditure for detailed design 3 construction docs
amts are set out in the table; you can see the amts there; prudent and sensible
addressing Cclr Cam's, mine, and I believe yours
no impediment to bringing a bylaw within a week -- demonstrated today
Monday Financial Plan, up for adoption this morning.
Mr Chan is, I believe, incorrect in stating that it wd take two weeks and be an impediment to the progress of the project, to bring to each phase
Recommendation to you as reps of the cmnty, fiduciary
tyvm
Mayor: think basically everyone on Ccl agrees with you...
I'll ask Mr Chan to clarify; but intent is to come back to Ccl at each stage
each phase have report from staff and approve next, not intent to hand out a cheque for $3.8M
agree due diligence on ea phase
DR: {distorted/inaudible, something about bylaw}
Mayor: let's hear from Mr Chan whether amendment bylaw or staff report
DR: just my opinion, FWIW
Mayor: worth a lot to me, love your opinions; don't always agree with them, but love to hear them; thank you
Mr Chan, help clarify the intent?
MC: the way you put it is an accurate summary; a step-wise approach rather than one-time lump sum funding approval
at this point staff wd not be able to spend beyond $495K end of schematic design
must come back with design $815K: Ccl can approve to go ahead, can stop entirely
Mayor: think I understand it but any mbr of Ccl questions?
MAB: main reason you're asking for approval of the overall budget for both hard and soft costs and multiple stages is to conform with UBC Trust model as well as give some comfort to the consultants you've hired
MC: sev reasons; anticipating full year approach, compatibility with budget process
transparent -- clear and complete understanding for the entire year
another pt: Dist has approved contracts: Dialogue $1,273,500 and Pivotal $549K -- go for the three-yr length of the proj; can be turned off at any time
that sum exceeds the $495K we have approval for; we have other contracts, consultants nec to inform architects
do not have carte blanche for whole amt; up to Ccl
ML: think all of Ccl agrees with concerns of Mr Roach and Ccl is comfortable with what has been proposed by staff
diligence at each step; staff cannot pay beyond...
from legislative, biz mgmt, and stewardship of residents' fiscal concerns, we're on top of this; I'd be comfortable proceeding
Sop: Ms L proceed by bylaw amendment, financial plan?
NL: transparent up front ... stated what planned over next three years
safeguard we'll not move fwd without approval at ea stage
Mr Roach's approach is an alternative and we debated internally but we felt this most efficient manner of getting budget out ahead of time and aligned with the workplan, but Ccl has opp at every stage to say yes or no
Sop: read Mr Roach's and still have a bit in craw about where monies come from -- what's the rush?
frankly we have diff ways of looking at this. When we looked at huge amts for Cmnty Ctr we did pay as we go, logical, and it worked
we have an authorization of $165K and $3.645M, then left without a phasing necessarily to demands in future
why not lay it out, set amts to date, and say here's how projected and in way of bylaw; that method's safe for ev
CAO: we've been asked over and over again by this Ccl is to move fwd
trying to move in least bureaucratic way
clear about whole proj $3.6M; at any time Ccl and cmnty can stop at any time
ccl mtgs scheduled ev two weeks so unless you're prepared to meet twice a week and prepared for all those costs (preparing reports, advertising)
you have absolute control
this proj v clear, v transparent, this Ccl totally in control
TP: happy and satisfied with process; transparency has been centre
Cclr Lewis said it v well; this way to push staff to be more efficient
comfortable with this going fwd
app your comments, Mr Roach, think they make us be v conscience and clear about decisions we make
Mayor: will go to Cclr Gambioli for a motion
don't want to put you on the spot, but Cclr Cam is not here and he did have some concerns, so unless I hear differently from staff, it is an option for you to table this until the first mtg in January, or you can move the motion, or you can take a poll of your fellow mbrs of Ccl and see what they want to do
NG: I wd like to move the motion as printed
Mayor: so you're moving the recommended motion
NG: I look fwd in Part 6 to read the Ccl report with the recommended funding source, entire proj before entering into construction
Sop: Item 6 says will be done -- why isn't funding source before us now?
why say wait again? two, three, four -- why not set out?
I move we table this till January until a clear picture
NG: that's not a friendly amendment
Mayor: got a tabling motion -- a seconder? Seeing none, did you want Mr Chan to ans your Qs?
Sop: yes, pls
MC: whether funding available; staff and Ccl have confirmed repeatedly that we have do have confirmed the ability to fund the entire proj
have seen through land sales; also can be funded through one or combination, EndFund, etc {listed; see motion}
later on in new year to confirm
we are at an early stage; need to come back with a construction schedule, schematic design, then construction contracts
all info together then funding sources as well
Mayor: before Cclr Sop speaks for the second time will ask if anyone else
MAB: what are the risks if we don't approve this at this time? (other than efficiency)
MC: we have been questioned before about funding approval after rather than before...
we're entering into contracts now; passing this allows us.... what budget for next year; proceeding without this is not prudent nor for the CFO
Mayor: Cclr Sop, do you want to speak for the second time?
Sop: Mr Chan, if we look at the EndFund, we have about $5M.
{he's giving the amt above the threshold}
Land sales are in my view limited at this time.
I've questioned if we shd borrow for this.
don't know what direction we're going to go if we say money in place; what categories certainty we can move on it? haven't had
just we will do this in future and here's where we can get it -- well, show me the funds where we can get it.
Mayor: do you want to try and answer that?
MC: funds are av, on p8; the other alternatives are internal financing and land sales; going to be coming to Ccl with a strategy how to handle surplus lands (sales) -- short-term, medium-term, and long-term
Mayor: let's summarize this so all clear
Cclr Lewis said what I said, we're all in agreement with Mr Roach; not definitely authorizing $3.645M; we are putting that up in the window as the total budget for softcosts, in report and coming back at each stage and with where money coming from
don't think this cd be clearer
my final comment -- committed to a completely open process... explain at ea stage; committed to complete transparency
public shd be totally reassured we're going to spend both sides of their dollar on this proj, right Mr Chan?
MC: right
Mayor: perfect. Call the question on:
1. The report entitled Public Safety Building dated December 3, 2012, be received for information.
2. (a) The budget for soft costs for the PSB for Nov and Dec 2012 of $165,000 (excluding HST and as set out in Appendix 1 to the report dated Dec 3) be approved, with funding to be provided in a manner consistent with the funding approach previously approved by Ccl for the PSB project, namely through the net proceeds of sale of District-owned lands which are deposited in the Endmt Fund.
(b) Staff report back to Council with a budget amendment bylaw to amend the 2012 District Budget.
3. (a) The budget for soft costs for the PSB for all of 2013 of $3,645,000 (excluding HST and as set out in Appendix 1 to the report dated Dec 3) be approved, with funding to be provided in a manner consistent with the funding approach prev'ly approved by Ccl for the PSB proj, namely through the net proceeds of sale of District-owned lands which are deposited in the Endowment Fund.
(b) Staff report back to Council with a budget amendment bylaw to amend the 2013 District Budget.
4. Staff report back to Ccl in early 2013 with a 2013 budget for hard construction costs for the PSB after a demolition and construction schedule has been prepared by the design team for Council approval.
5. Notwithstanding Ccls approval on July 23 of a $36M target budget for the PSB proj, Staff report back to Ccl periodically to request Ccl approval for specific funding releases for each major phase of the proj.
6. While the District has confirmed that the entire PSB can be funded through one or a combination of: the Endmt Fund; land sales; other internal financing; financing from the M Finance Authority; or tax, Staff report back to Ccl in 2013 with a recommended funding source for Ccl approval for the entire PSB proj before entering into any construction contracts and commencing construction.
Mayor: passes; Sop opposed {CC absent}`
4. Proposed 2013 Council Meeting Schedule (File: 0120-01)
attached: the report dated Dec 3 from the Mgr, Legislative Services; for approval.
NG: a little amendment Oct 28 mtg followed by FCmte mtg
hoping that wd when the Awards night so hope wd be and shift Finance to another night; hope reserve Oct 28
Mayor: cd just put it in or have an earlier FCmte; just put in
ML: {hard to hear; saying amendment?}
Mayor: one day I'm going to get this right; now call the question on the main motion
MAB: for clarity, the Mar 18 and 25 mtgs fall during the spring break period historically, do we go through that?
Mayor: I'll be going through that period on the Amazon River, cruise, that's what I'll be doing on Mar 25th
LAUGHTER
MAB: so we'll just have to live vicariously through you?
Mayor: so if there's a need for a ccl mtg on Mar 25th, presumably the rest of Ccl will carry on in my absence.
CAO: it has been typical that those mtgs have been cancelled; but not always sure when they fall but believe this year 18 and 25 and Ccl has cancelled those mtgs.
ML: simpler to have them on the agenda and cancel them; easier than trying to add them
Mayor: motion carries unanimously
BYLAWS
5. [5-Year] Financial Plan Bylaw No. 4743, 2012 (File: 1610-20-4743) for adoption
Sop: on page 13 one question from the other night I didn't understand; re allotments of money re facilities, all facilities including PSB and others?
NL: yes, correct
Sop: down to Endowment and there's no allotment; pressure on EFund it will show up
NL: EFund anticipated to be $26M at end of 2012 and we will be coming fwd in early January with a budget amendment bylaw for expenditures for PSB and others
at this time not planned any expenditures from the EF within this Five-Yr Fin plan
Sop: in a manner of process, as these funds become allotted, by way of bylaw amendment?
NL: right; what we're trying to address is transparency, source, safeguards how much to be spent; spent relative to ..., want to bring budget amendment beginning of the year so that it's clear where money coming from
Sop: never been about transparency for me, bn about process
if moving along in manner you state, whether payment for PSB or whatever else, must be amendment to any source
NL: right
Mayor: unanimous
6. Consent Agenda Items
6.1. Appointments to Memorial Library Board (File: 1905-01)
1. The following applicants for a [two-year] term commencing January 1, 2013: Anjili Bahadoorsing and Eric Fiss;
2. The following mbrs be reappointed for a [two-year] term commencing January 1, 2013: Kirsty Farquharson;
Joanne McKenna; and Jan Pezarro.
6.2. TransLink Customer Service Performance Report for Quarter 3, 2012 (File: 3205-03) -- received for info.
6.3. Development Application Status List (File: 1010-01) -- received for information.
6.4. Correspondence List (File: 0120-24)
Council Correspondence Update to November 30, 2012 (up to 12:00 Noon)
Referred for Action
(1) NSh Womens Ctr, Nov 29, re Proclamation for Natl Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
(Referred to Municipal Clerk for response)
Received for Information
(2) Committee and Board Meeting Minutes Board of Variance October 17, 2012
(3) MetroV, Nov 28, re Impact of 2011 Federal Census Population on Weighted Voting and Member Representation
(4) 2 submissions, dated November 25-28, 2012, regarding 1300 block of Marine Drive
(5) J. Kwan, MLA (Vancouver - Mt. Pleasant), Nov 26, re Status of Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) Negotiations
Responses to Correspondence
(6) Director of Engineering and Transportation, November 30, response to R. Richards regarding Wasteful expenditure
Council Correspondence Update to December 4, 2012 (up to 4:30 pm)
Referred for Action
(1) City of North Vancouver, November 29, 2012, regarding Affordable Housing for the Persons with Disabilities
(Referred to Director of Planning, Lands and Permits for consideration and response)
(2) K. Steig, November 30, 2012, regarding District of West Vancouver Proposed 2013 Budget
(Referred to Chief Financial Officer for consideration and response)
Received for Information
(3) Hon. J. Kenney, Min/Citizenship, Immigration, and Multiculturalism, undated, re Paul Yuzyk Award for Multiculturalism
(Attachment available for viewing in Legislative Services Department)
(4) November 30, 2012, regarding Trans Mountain Expansion Project: Owned by Kinder Morgan: Concerns regarding Safety, Security and Environmental Stewardship.
(5) Metro Vancouver, December 3, 2012, regarding Policy of Ending Youth Homelessness.
7. OTHER ITEMS
Council has requested that the following correspondence be brought forward for discussion, and may propose a motion if Council considers that further action is required.
(Referred to Municipal Clerk for response)
MAB: that's mine; know we have a practice of not endorsing proclamations and I'm not going to request that
pulled this item, commemorates the 1989 murder of 14 women in Montreal
globally, often think it's not a concern at home
spoke recently to WVPD and the issue keeps on coming up is that in WV one of the main concerns for the Police is domestic violence and violence that is not reported, and violence that is reported so this is a concern and Ccl has to be alive to through our Police Force and education; urge ev to consider that as we move fwd under child and family friendly charters that we consider these issues when we made policy decision around women and girls.
Mayor: hope we also consider the safety of men in our cmnty as well; don't think we want to be seen as encouraging violence against men in our own cmnty as well; not your intention
MAB: not what I'm saying but often the violence is perpetrated by men against women; that is the most common scenario.
7.2. December 5, 2012, regarding Homelessness in West Vancouver
MAB: Cclr Cam and I brought this forward, with 7.3
we did have a presentation from the NSh Homelessness Task Force
letter from a young man in our cmnty questioning the invisibility of homelessness in our cmnty
policy raises this -- do we have any numbers wrt homelessness in WV, particularly youth
doc indicated a lot couch-surfing
AM: We have staff on that TF but report hasn't come to it yet but will on Thursday
don't have the numbers of youth in WV with me, but can provide the statistics to Ccl.
letter from resident talking about a couple of homeless ppl hanging around the AYC
blueprint for responsibility to work together with all of cmnty
the two homeless ppl who have been identified; the WVPD, our Cmnty Srvcs staff, the Lookout Shelter, and the Hollyburn Fam Services -- all the agencies work together to make sure ppl are helped
Sop: there's an abundance of support on the NSh
remember being on that group for social responsibility; have concerned ourselves in WV
Indiv who wrote the letter must not have read a few things; moving forward and moving fwd;
we don't close an eye to it
Mayor: next Police Bd mtg in January, the Lookout Shelter coming with a delegation explaining the issue; talking about resources
ML: also invite the young fellow who wrote
7.3. Metro Vancouver, December 3, 2012, regarding Policy of Ending Youth Homelessness
8. Public Questions and Comments
Dave Roach: three questions if I may
Bylaw 4743, 2012 -- when will the documentation of the 5-Yr Fin Plan catch up or be posted in the public domain?
second part: when will the minutes of the Nov FCmte mtgs be posted in the public domain?
decisions were made wch were on the Fin Plan and wd be useful in future if those FCte mtgs were on the District website -- they have not been and were not this morning
Second: 4717 2012, Mr Chan on the third of Dec put fwd a recomm that staff come back with an amendment bylaw for that particular bylaw; it's now the 12th and no indication amendment bylaw forthcoming this is probably last mtg of year, when will that amendment bylaw be coming. It's $266,078 that Mr Chan identified on Dec 3 wch was expended up to the end of October without authorization under the 5yr FPlan wch is the only one in effect today
Third: PSB; app your points re process, I accede to them. I may not agree with them. Transparency you mentioned. What specific procedures will be put in place that stuff does come back, in public at a reg ccl mtg to address those issues, questions, concerns Cclr Cameron had and that I have and wch you said wd be brought forward.
what procedures specifically? will the Ccl resolns approving the expenditures be made in public or will they be made in camera? This is a v critical point. This is a high visibility proj. As you know, this is a $36M, compared with $39 for the Cmnty Ctr. A significant amt of money. Funding sources -- when will the staff specifically report back on the question of funding these particular projects? we need to know that before you approve, not after.
We shd have that now, or pretty soon, and it shd be studied, made by the Fin Dir and there shd be a sep ccl report brought to Ccl early in the year discussing the implications and the sources of those funds
tyvm
Mayor: will answer the third; as mentioned all funding decisions will be made in a full regular public ccl mtg
staff want to take a stab at answering now or take under advisement
NL: wd like to be able to answer the first two questions, quickly
Doc on 5yrFP will be updated first two weeks of Jan; proposed budget book updated with all of the data and adjustments made to date
signif amt of disc at FCmte mtgs from beginning Sept to beginning Dec wch will also be incorporated into the doc that gets posted
The Nov 26 FCmte mtg minutes hv not yet been approved by the FCmte and imagine will not be until the end of Jan, wch is proposed ccl schedule
yes, David?
{He was speaking from the gallery, away from the mic so undiscernible}
Mayor: check Jan 28th, that will be a public Ccl mtg on Finance issues and one issue we'll address is if we need to pass a motion approving FinCmte mtgs, we can certainly do it on that date
The intent is to have a monthly open ccl mtg on Finance b/c this Ccl puts a top priority on how we spend public money
monthly summary of what we're spending, what we intend to spend, dept reviews, ev will be on the table, so hope you'll be able to attend
NL: the only other item -- Mr Roach brought it fwd and I feel compelled to respond -- all of the expenditures to date relative to the PSB hv bn approved by Ccl throughout the year. They may not have bn incorporated into a budget amendment bylaw earlier in the year as we like to do going fwd, but all approved by Ccl prior to the expenditures taking place throughout 2012
Mayor: that's it.
9. Adjournment
=== ANIMALWATCH ===
o This first one is dramatic; hippos and crocodiles to Beethoven's Fifth:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z99IjOUj7x4&feature=endscreen&NR=1
o Eagle Count in Brackendale on Sunday Jan 6; in the meantime here's an eagle catching a salmon:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hecXupPpE9o&feature=youtu.be
o Otters (had to put in a dose of cute but this Mum is determined to teach a baby who does not want to learn):
http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=QpTqV6LPl8c
=== INFObits ===
+ Port Mann Bridge -- Cable-stayed bridge; formal opening 2012 Dec 1; Cost $2.5B ($3.3B all-in VSun Dec 20); widest bridge in the world (ten lanes); second longest bridge in North America; coating on cables did not prevent ice falling off cables as intended so dents and smashed windshields, etc on Dec 19 (100s of claims already); but snow is rare in Vancouver -- though not unheard of! -- and apparently bridges in Sweden just close for a day or two. Red faces and big bucks. CBC's weather lady Claire Martin said Dec 20 that the chances of Vancouver having a white Christmas has gone up -- one in five. Eat your heart out, rest of Canada. So come visit and you might get lucky -- our palm trees might be decorated with a bit of snow......
+ Deaths from Guns
> 2012 Dec 14, RIP, Newton, CT, founded 1705, incorporated 1711.
> 2009 stats on gun-related deaths: UK - 18; Canada 174; U.S. 9,173 - what does that tell you? -- bearing in mind UK has strictest gun ownership laws of all three? (2010 & 2011 not yet available)
> CBC (The National) said there are 6M guns in Canada.
> CBC (On the Coast Dec 17) had an American say there are over 300M guns in the US, enough for every man, woman, and child in the US, so even if banned now, how to control?
Cdn't help thinking that in Canada we made ppl register -- can you imagine Americans complying as Cdns did? Of course now the Harper govt is cancelling the register. At least Quebec has a hope of being able to keep some track.
There'll never be complete control of mental illnesses cases but at least if no large-capacity magazines, shots are limited (not to mention the insanity of letting the US ban on assault rifles expire).
=== PHOTOWATCH === The 45 Most Powerful Images Of 2012
Be prepared for multiple emotional reactions. If you have none, or if they are bland, go immediately to the nearest emergency room for a heart/brain scan -- yours may be AWOL.
http://www.buzzfeed.com/mjs538/most-powerful-images-of-2012
~~~ ROYALWATCH ~~~ The Queen's Christmas Message referred to duty and service
News for 2012 Queen's Christmas message
Queen's Christmas message urges serving othersCBC.ca - 3 days ago
Queen Elizabeth's Christmas message urges carrying on the spirit of togetherness and friendship
captured in 2012 by the London Summer ...
Queen's Christmas speech: monarch humbled by Jubilee crowds Telegraph.co.uk - 3 days ago
BBC News - Queen's message praises 2012 'army of volunteers'
www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-208393383 days ago Queen's message praises 2012 'army of volunteers' ...
In her Christmas message, she said it was striking to see the "friendship" of so many ...
=== CPTWATCH ===
For on-line version click here. http://www.cpt.org/cptnet/2012/12/10/al-khalil-hebron-reflection-sum-many-parts
CPTnet 10 December 2012 AL-KHALIL (HEBRON) REFLECTION: A sum of many parts
by Jonathan Brenneman
I am heading up CPT's involvement in a campaign to save eight villages in the southern tip of the West Bank from forced evacuation and destruction by Israel. The Israeli army claims to want the land, known as Masafer Yatta, for military training, referring to the area as Firing Zone 918.
As part of the campaign I get to spend one night a week with a family in Masafer Yatta as a guest. I and another CPTer stay over in order to provide an initial protective presence in case of attempted demolitions or army harassment. A collaborative effort among several groups working in the area provides for an international presence there at all times. It is good to visit with the families and hear their stories. On 8 December, I got to go to the Masafer in another capacity, as a nonviolent demonstrator.
As part of the campaign to raise awareness of the plight of the people living within the Firing Zone, villagers and internationals decided to have a bicycle ride and march into the area. Technically, according to Israeli law, entrance into the zone is illegal, even though over 1000 people live there. The idea was to show solidarity with the villages as well as to show the Israeli army and government that the world cares about what will happen to the people living there.
I don't know who thought that riding bikes across the hilly, rocky, unpaved land was a feasible, but they were wrong. We ended up walking the bikes as much as we rode, but it worked out well because the marchers were able to keep up with the 'cyclers'. The main march was to the village of Um Fagarah. It had recently gained even more importance since the Israeli army destroyed the mosque in that village days before the demonstration. In the village we talked with leaders and the press took pictures and interviews.
There were about 100 participants. It was amazing to see Israelis, Palestinians, and internationals men, women, and children all marching together, sharing their stories with each other, and united in this cause.
On 16 December, the Israeli high court will begin legal proceedings on the future of these villages. A march with 100 people and some cameras feels insignificant given the devastation possible from the courts. I have to remind myself that the cycle ride/march was one piece to pressure the courts to do the right thing. There are many other pieces, each of which feels insignificant on its own, but when put together, they might just create enough pressure to make something happen.
Participate Another seemingly insignificant act you can participate in is to sign CPT's Avaaz petition to go the Israeli embassies. Here is the link: Please sign. Let us all together commit enough insignificant acts to cause a change.
=== PEACE?WATCH ===
The Chutzpah of Bibi Netanyahu
Israels prime minister says diplomacy is war, criticism of Israel is anti-Semitism, and West Bank settlements arent unilateral.
by William Saletan| Posted Thursday, Dec. 6, 2012, at 11:34 AM ET See: http://v.gd/Bibi_Chutzpah
=== BOOKWATCH ===
> 100 Notable Books of 2012 published: November 27, 2012
The years notable fiction, poetry and nonfiction, selected by the editors of The New York Times Book Review.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/02/books/review/100-notable-books-of-2012.html
> Millions of Cats -- Millions of Cats is a picture book written and illustrated by Wanda Gág in 1928. The book won a Newbery Honor award in 1929, one of the few picture books to do so. Millions of Cats is the oldest American picture book still in print. {from a talk at our Lbrary, one of Pam Goldsmith-Jones's favourite books?}
> LATEST ISSUE OF BOOK NEWS Vol. 7 No. 46 [excerpts]
http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/community/latestbooknews
+ Michael Posner interviews Gordon Pinsent, now 82, on his charmed life a play on words since Pinsent always referred to his wife Charmion King as Charmand his new autobiography, Next, deftly ghosted by CBC programmer George Anthony, writes Posner. http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/celebrity-news/gordon-pinsent-reflec...
+ A new translation of The Outsider, Albert Camus's 1942 masterpiece, deserves to become the standard English text, writes Lucian Robinson. http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/dec/09/outsider-albert-camus-smith-
+ A Poet and Bin-Laden, Hamid Ismailov's picaresque novel mixes genres and viewpoints to provide a fascinating commentary on Islam and central Asia, writes Kate Kellaway. An extraordinary book and a difficult read, worth persevering because it takes one deep into Islamic fundamentalism in Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan. Hamid Ismailov, Uzbek writer in residence of the BBC World Service, calls it a "reality novel". http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2012/dec/09/poet-bin-laden-ismailov-review
=== LANGUAGEWATCH === Ithkuil
An incredible article in the New Yorker. Nothing about Utopia and nothing about Beginners (that's just the title) and I still suspect it may be a hoax -- I had to check it was not April 1 -- but that gives you no idea of what it is.
ANNALS OF LINGUISTICS UTOPIAN FOR BEGINNERS
by JOSHUA FOER DECEMBER 24, 2012 An amateur linguist loses control of the language he invented.
Quijadas invented language has two seemingly incompatible ambitions: to be maximally precise but also maximally concise
There are so many ways for speakers of English to see the world. We can glimpse, glance, visualize, view, look, spy, or ogle. Stare, gawk, or gape. Peek, watch, or scrutinize......
John Quijada, a fifty-four-year-old former employee of the California State Department of Motor Vehicles, ... In 2004, he published a monograph on the Internet that was titled Ithkuil: A Philosophical Design for a Hypothetical Language. Written like a linguistics textbook, the fourteen-page Web site ran to almost a hundred and sixty thousand words. It documented the grammar, syntax, and lexicon of a language that Quijada had spent three decades inventing in his spare time. Ithkuil had never been spoken by anyone other than Quijada, and he assumed that it never would be......
Ithkuil has two seemingly incompatible ambitions: to be maximally precise but also maximally concise, capable of capturing nearly every thought that a human being could have while doing so in as few sounds as possible. Ideas that could be expressed only as a clunky circumlocution in English can be collapsed into a single word in Ithkuil. A sentence like On the contrary, I think it may turn out that this rugged mountain range trails off at some point becomes simply Tram-mļöi hhâsmařpţuktôx......
Invented languages have often been created in tandem with entire invented universes, and most conlangers come to their craft by way of fantasy and science fiction. J. R. R. Tolkien, who called conlanging his secret vice, maintained that he created the Lord of the Rings trilogy for the primary purpose of giving his invented languages, Quenya, Sindarin, and Khuzdul, a universe in which they could be spoken. And arguably the most commercially successful invented language of all time is Klingon, which has its own translation of Hamlet and a dictionary that has sold more than three hundred thousand copies......
Consonant-poor Hawaiian has just thirteen phonemes. English has around forty-two, depending on dialect. In order to pack as much meaning as possible into each word, Ithkuil has fifty-eight phonemes. The original version of the language included a repertoire of grunts, wheezes, and hacks that are borrowed from some of the worlds most obscure tongues. One particular hard-to-make clicklike sound, a voiceless uvular ejective affricate, has been found in only a few other languages, including the Caucasian language Ubykh, whose last native speaker died in 1992........
He sent me a sentence: Eipkalindhöll te uvölîlpa ípçatörza üxt rîekçuöbös abzeikhouxhtoù eqarpaň dhaieickòbüm öt eužmackûnáň xhaiékcoxtîmmalt te qhoec îtyatuithaň. I am privileged to have had the rare experience of having what I think of as a hobby propel me to faraway places where one encounters new ideas along with new cultures and new peoples generous in their hospitality and respect, leading me to humble introspection and a new appreciation for the human spirit and the wonders of the world.
Read more: http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2012/12/24/121224fa_fact_foer
=== SPELLINGWATCH ===
[in Dec 3 transcript] Canadian tends to differentiate: mould (green stuff); molding (construction; pottery too?)
=== PRONUNCIATIONWATCH ===
Do your ears pick up on (correct) enunciation?
have you noticed some say news rhyming with snooze when in fact it's properly nyooz?
what about Tuesday not as tyoozday but toozday?
Duke is dyook, not dook.
think of DO (doo) and DUE (dyoo); toon vs tune
=== WORDWATCH === OED Online Word of the Day -- ostrobogulous
Your word for today is: ostrobogulous, adj. Pronunciation: Brit. /ˌɒstrəʊˈbɒɡjᵿləs/, U.S. /ˌɑstroʊˈbɑɡjələs/
Etymology: Apparently irregularly < oestrous adj. + -o- connective + either bog n.1 or bog n.4 + -ulous suffix, attributed to Victor Benjamin Neuburg, British writer (18831940); compare:
1973 Times Lit. Suppl. 27 July 871/2 It was sick, dirty, or more precisely, ostrobogulous, which according to Victor Neuburg..meant etymologically full of (Latin, ulus) rich (Greek, ostro) dirt (schoolboy, bog).
Chiefly humorous.
Used after Neuburg to designate something that is slightly risqué or indecent. Also applied arbitrarily to things which are bizarre, interesting, or unusual in some other way (see quots.).
1951 A. Calder-Marshall Magic my Youth i. 31 Ostrobogulous was Vickybird's favourite word. It stood for anything from the bawdy to the slightly off-colour. Any double entendre that might otherwise have escaped his audience was prefaced by, if you will pardon the ostrobogulosity.
1952 A. Graves Ostrobogulous Pigs 7
Once upon a time there were..five ostrobogulous skipperty flipperty filthy grubby muddy little pigs.
1963 Sunday Times 29 Dec. 19/2 (heading) An ostrobogulous year for the toy men.
1965 J. O. Fuller Magical Dilemma V. Neuburg i. iv. 58 Some of the entries were not printed because they were ostrobogulous. This was a wonderful word of Vicky's. It was used in the place of indecent or pornographic, and had the advantage..that it implied no moral attitude.
1972 Times Lit. Suppl. 30 June 757/4 His career, fabulous, prestigious, sordid, sinister, and in the word of Victor Neuburg ostrobogulous.
Derivatives
ostroboguˈlation n. nonce-wd.
1952 A. Graves Ostrobogulous Pigs 11 I can no longer endure the odorous and objectionable ostrobogulations of those creatures, said Angelina Boghurst-Fisher.
ostroˈbogulatory adj. nonce-wd. 1952 A. Graves Ostrobogulous Pigs 10, I can no longer endure this ostrobogulatory behaviour.
=== HERITAGEWATCH ===
+ HERITAGE SOCIETY of BC http://www.heritagebc.ca/home/ http://www.heritagebc.ca/heritage-week-2013
[2013] This year's theme: Good Neighbours
Heritage Homes and Neighbourhoods
+ HERITAGE WEST VAN
Heritage Week always starts the third Monday of February, so in 2013 it's Feb 18 (to 24). If you have an idea for an event or wd like to participate or volunteer, pls write to heritage@westvan.org
If you'd like a 2013 Heritage Week poster, pls write or call 922 4400.
+ HERITAGE VANCOUVER SOCIETY Read bulletins from our website: www.heritagevancouver.org/bulletin
E-bulletin sign-up for event listings, alerts, heritage info; all coming events: www.heritagevancouver.org
Read this bulletin from our website: www.heritagevancouver.org/bulletin/bulletin_20121106.html
Other Coming Events All events: heritagevancouver.org
= VANCOUVER HERITAGE FOUNDATION -- http://www.vancouverheritagefoundation.org/wall.html
~~~ MAIKU ~~~ 2012 December 22
tree's coloured lights reflected,
twinkling, sparkling, in
family's, friends' eyes
SALMAGUNDI
Sent to my elist: ~ Christmas Story as told by kids in NZ: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWq60oyrHVQ
~ MUSIC: Landfillharmonic -- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXynrsrTKbI
qUotations thoughts puns
If you're not careful, the newspapers will have you hating the people who are being oppressed, and loving the people who are doing the oppressing.
-- Malcolm X, African-American Muslim minister and human rights activist (1925 - 1965)
Memory is to love what the saucer is to the cup. -- Elizabeth Bowen, Irish novelist (1899 - 1973)
Men's minds are raised to the level of the women with whom they associate. -- Alexandre Dumas, pere
It's easier to fool people than to convince them that they have been fooled. -- Mark Twain
Laughter is carbonated holiness. -- Anne Lamott
Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love. -- Mother Teresa
You must get involved to have an impact. No one is impressed with the won-lost record of the referee.
-- John Holcomb
Since we are destined to live out our lives in the prison of our minds, our one duty is to furnish it well. -- Peter Ustinov
I like nonsense; it wakes up the brain cells. -- Dr. Seuss
The person who says he knows what he thinks but cannot express it usually does not know what he thinks. -- Mortimer J Adler, American author (1902 - 2001)
Are people that live in both the Arctic and Antarctica called pollsters?
The store keeps calling me to come back and buy more bedroom furniture, but all I really wanted was one night stand.
I was going to buy some loose tea, but the price was too steep.
What do you call the garden police? Lawn and Order.
Hogs are taken to slaughter by the hearsemen of the aporkalypse.
An Unusual Nativity
A religious education class was almost finished making their models of the nativity scene and one little boy had done a lovely job. Some animals, Mary, Joseph, three wise men, and shepherds were all there, however, the teacher noticed an extra, rather overweight man in the scene as well.Who is that person? she asked.Oh, thats Round John Virgin.
Christmas Present
It was the day after Christmas at a church in San Francisco. Pastor Mike was looking at the nativity scene outside when he noticed the baby Jesus was missing from the figures.
Immediately, Pastor Mike turned towards the church to call the police. But as he was about to do so, he saw little Jimmy with a red wagon, and in the wagon was the figure of the little infant, Jesus.
Pastor Mike walked up to Jimmy and said, "Well, Jimmy, where did you get the little infant?" Jimmy replied, "I got him from the church."
"And why did you take him?"
With a sheepish smile, Jimmy said, "Well, about a week before Christmas I prayed to little Lord Jesus. I told him if he would bring me a red wagon for Christmas, I would give him a ride around the block in it."