New Ideas for Health Care

Health Care is always an election issue.  Some rethinking is maybe necessary.

Thre was a

Kimberley Green Building Conference

4^th Annual Green Building Conference Features Energy Efficient Renovations

Planning some renovations this year? Want to learn tips and techniques from leading experts in the field? Look no further than the 4th Annual Green Building Conference to be held in Kimberley on May 10th and 11th at the Kimberley Conference and Athlete Training Centre. With an emphasis on renovating and alternative building methods (focused on energy efficiency), this conference is well worth attending.

Wildsight, City of Kimberley, College of the Rockies and the Rocky Mountain chapter of the Canadian Home Builders Association are running the show and are looking forward to an exciting event. The group has managed to bring together speakers and presenters from across the province and the country to share their expertise on current advancements in energy efficiency, green building codes and alternative building methods and products.

“Many of the houses in Kimberley and the surrounding region are older mining homes, many of which are being renovated,” said Jensen-Shill. “This year’s conference will feature plenty of workshops that will explore the best way to optimize energy efficiency.”

Friday, May 10th will feature three-hour-long workshops in which presenters can go into a high level of detail about their subject: ideal for building professionals and home-owners interested in green building practices.

Keynote speaker, Lorraine Gauthier will present “Retrofit Revolution” on Friday evening, where she will explore the transformation of older homes into net zero homes with no energy bills. As well, there will be a number of green building and renovating products and services being exhibited at the Green Building Showcase. The general public is invited to Friday night’s events. 

“Saturday's program features two workshop streams focusing on either energy efficient home renovations or a variety of green or alternative building methods and materials,” said Jensen-Shill. “We will have two days filled with the latest in green building, high performance renovations, net zero and passive homes.”

Jensen Shill encourages anyone with an interest in building and renovating to come along.

“The event really is a great investment of time and money for anyone in the industry,” she said. “Builders, designers, realtors, or anyone considering building or renovating with an eye on the environment will all benefit from the conference.”

Kimberley building inspector, Andy Christy is keen to see renovators and builders attend. “When you consider the amount of time and money that people invest in either building or renovating their homes,” he said, “the cost of registration and time spent attending the conference is well worth the amount of knowledge and resources that participants come away with, not to mention the payback down the road due to decreased energy consumption.”

See www.greenbuildingconference.ca for more information.

Information - Erna Jensen-Shill- erna@wildsight.ca or 250 427-9360

BC Needs Your Vote on May 14th

There are lots of sites to help you make up your mind in the upcoming election.  Try

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/bcvotes2013/features/votecompass/
and don't forget the Leaders Debate on CBC this evening:

http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/04/28/bc-leaders-debate-cbc_n_3176133.html


CBC has assessed many of the major topics in it's 'Reality Check' which is broadcast on CBC regularly and also can be found online.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2013/04/26/bc-reality-check-lng.html
"CBC’s Reality Check team finds Clark’s claims are more hype and hope than fact, and are instead political spin", so says CBC's Reality Check

What's Happening for Youth in Cranbrook

by Dana Osiowy

The past year has seen a huge uptake in the number of initiatives happening for youth in the Cranbrook area. There has been a coalition of youth services providers who are working together to increase the opportunities for young people in the Cranbrook area. This whole initiative began in 2012 with a meeting of the City of Cranbrook, United Way, Big Brothers Big Sisters, & the Boys and Girls Club. This group put together two community meetings that laid out a vision for a future youth friendly Cranbrook. The group then began the process to apply for the 2012 Community Directed Youth Funds process through Columbia Basin Trust. The next meeting was a dotmocracy facilitated by Columbia Basin Trust that reiterated some of the initiatives brought forward in the previous meetings. It was decided that the community would apply for a facilitator for our youth community. The planning meetings highlighted  that there are lots of things for young people to do but they either do not know about them, can’t afford them or can’t get to them. One of the ways the coalition is planning on ameliorating this situation is by hiring a Youth Liaison who will coordinate the communications for the youth events in the community and work with the youth community to create 6 fun activities in partnership with other organizations.  The hiring process for The Cranbrook Project, has begun with a focus on a candidate who has the experience and affinity for working with youth.

A simultaneous process that is aimed at youth engagement is happening right now! Cranbrook has been selected as one of the pilot communities for the CBT Youth Engagement Strategy Funding. This project is about creating the framework for how the municipality, other non-profits and service clubs can get youth involved in a meaningful way. We are looking at implementing a process with a select number of groups or organizations who are ready to have youth meaningfully engaged in their operations, or who are ready to support meaningful youth engagement in their programs or services.  This project is being led by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cranbrook and their staff.  It is a great process to engage in while we are creating activities and opportunities for youth to participate in via The Cranbrook Project. 

Out and About with Stewart

The Pasque Flower, Prairie Crocus or Anemone patens

Fisher Peak in all its glory

The greening up of the Fernie landscape

Osprey

Gearing up for the Election

Inside the NDP office

As May 14^th draws closer the candidate offices are busy places.  In Norma Blissett’s office, volunteers man the phones daily from 9:00am ‘til 8:00pm.

Throughout the Province many volunteer hours are being contributed to help and encourage voting citizens to become informed of issues relevant to their daily lives.

Just some of the memorabilia and goodies for auction at Blissett's fundraiser

There have been fund raisers to organise, auctions to administer and enjoy, forums to plan for and people to talk to.


The Fernie Community Centre held the first of four community forums on Wednesday night. With approximately 70 people in attendance.  Both candidates, Norma Blissett (NDP) and Bill Bennett (LIB) were able to clarify their positions on issues important to local concerns in the Elk Valley.

Submitted questions were asked by the moderator and each candidate was given 1.5 minutes to provide a response. The questions were wide ranging including the legalization of marijuana, the temporary foreign workers program, affordable housing, enhancing the education system, and how to attract investment to the East Kootenays. The diversity of answers provided a clear understanding of both the candidates priorities and those of their respective parties.

Norma Blissett and son Matthew enjoying the proceedings,
Chris Johns in the background

The Chamber of Commerce Luncheon Forum is being held in Cranbrook on May 1. If interested in tickets please contact the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce at 250-426-5914.


The Public Forum for Cranbrook will be held at the College of the Rockies at 7:00pm Wednesday May 1st. with Liberal candidate Bill Bennett and NDP candidate Norma Blissett.

Alex emceeing, Ann Edwards in the foreground

Election volunteers with candidates Michelle Mungall and Norma Blissett

Michael's Musings

Justin Trudeau featured in New York Times raising possibility of Camelot in Canada

by Michael J Morris

When the New York Times carries a story from Canada, generally speaking, it has to be something really big, otherwise the most influential newspaper in the United States ignores it completely.

For a Canadian politician to make the pages of the Times, especially one who is not a member of the government, or maybe in exceptional circumstances, a leading opposition member, is almost unheard of -- in fact maybe never.

That is until the arrival of Justin Trudeau, now the leader of the federal Liberals, reduced to third party status in the House of Commons, won the leadership of his party, and the Times took note with an opinion piece by Bruce McCall, a Canadian writer and illustrator now living in New York City.

Entitled "Camelot in Canada?" an obvious reference to the Kennedy dynasty, McCall tells his primarily American readers a bit about Pierre Trudeau, Justin's father, who was prime minister for 15 years and yes, he did get coverage in the Times.

McCall suggests that, "A dynasty needs first of all to be founded by one larger-than-life superhero or super villain, hungry for the power of command. That talent gets transmitted to the next generation and the next, though sometimes the genes get watered down and all that’s passed down is the title ... Pierre Trudeau filled that superhero role; he sometimes even wore a cape. In his 15 years of prime ministership — from 1968 to 1979, and again from 1980 to 1984 — he displayed such un-Canadian panache that he triggered a public enthusiasm known as Trudeaumania."

Enter Justin. McCall suggests that while Canadians have favoured substance over style in their prime ministers for the most part, and that it would take a "a total cultural turnaround for Canadians to anoint the young Trudeau as their leader...", his first name does have "sex appeal". Maybe Canadians are saying. "At last, a politician with a movie star/pop idol/ski bum name".

McCall adds that "He is square-jawed, with great hair, has a decorous young wife, and is as smooth and personable as a TV game show host."

However, McCall suggests, "that doesn’t mean that the political establishment isn’t a tiny bit worried. Canadian political life post-Pierre Trudeau has lacked a certain, well, pizazz. Even a sympathetic observer can detect disappointment in a run of prime ministerial personalities about as dynamic as a convention of C.P.A.’s, (Certified Public Accountant) culminating today in Stephen Harper, the leader of the Conservative Party."

Given the nastiness of the attack ads on Justin Trudeau since he became Liberal party leader, I would suggest that the Tory political establishment is more than a tiny bit worried about a return to the Trudeaumania that swept his  father into power starting in 1968 and ending in 1984. There was a brief time out when Progressive Conservative leader Joe Clark formed a minority government after the 1979 election.

Despite the attacks Andy Radia of Yahoo News reported on April 25 that "Justin Trudeau is Canada's most popular leader, according to a new poll. The report — conducted by Harris/Decima for the Canadian Press — suggests that 57 per of Canadians have a "favourable view" of the new Liberal leader compared to favourability ratings of 42 per cent and 40 per cent for NDP leader Thomas Mulcair and Prime Minister Stephen Harper, respectively. The survey also asked Canadians who they thought would make the best prime minister. Again, Trudeau finished on top with 33 per cent of the votes compared to Harper and Mulcair at 31 per cent and 18 per cent respectively."

This poll is consistent with other recent ones.  Of course, the next federal election does not need to be held until 2015, and in politics, two weeks can be a lifetime, but I have a hunch the Tories will not enjoy the same success with their attack ads as they did in branding Stephane Dion and Michael Ignatieff.

McCall notes: "And so, the staid Ottawa political establishment is suddenly faced with the nightmare of a what-the-heck-let’s-try-a-fresh-face electoral turnaround. Canada, Land of Surprises."

Stay tuned. Camelot Canada may be in the making.

My email is mj.morris@live.ca
Link to New York Times: 

http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/24/opinion/camelot-in-canada.html?_r=2&

Full disclosure: I am not now and never have been a member of the Citizens for a Livable Cranbrook Society; however, I did conduct a workshop for its members for which I was paid.

What's Happening...........

Thursday April 25th

Enchanted April continues through Saturday
Studio Side Door
Tickets Lotus Books
See poster

Art Group 75
Reception
Cranbrook and District Arts Council Gallery
7:00 -9:00pm
Corner !0th Ave and 2nd St S.

Friday April 26th

Garage Sale Donations
Friends of the Library accepting donations 10:00am - 6:00pm
Manual Training Centre
No large furniture items

Saturday April 26th

Friends of the Library Garage Sale
Manual Training Building
10:00am - 4:00pm

Wildhorse Cycling Club

WILDHORSE CYCLING CLUB GROUP RIDES

Wildhorse Cycling Club Group Rides – Cranbrook, BC

Wildhorse Cycling Club group rides are now in full swing! Join Wildhorse in exploring local trails and socializing with riders of all ages and abilities. Beginner Riders encouraged.

Meet at the Eager Hills - Fraggle Rock parking lot at 7pm; Tuesday for the Ladies-only cross country mountain bike ride and Thursdays for a Co-ed ride. Watch our website for location changes mid May.

The Wildhorse Cycling Club was started two years ago by a group of riders that were excited about the huge potential that Cranbrook and area has for cycling. The club’s goal is to support the existing cycling community and promote the area’s riding by bringing people together with group rides and community events. The Wildhorse Cycling club is a non-profit society registered with the Province of BC, IMBA (International Mountain Bike Association) Canada, and insured by Oasis insurance.

Group rides are a great way to get active, have fun, and meet new people. Come out and discover the local areas and trails. 

For more information, visit the website at bikewildhorse.ca.

Wildhorse Cycling Club

April – September, 2013

Contact: Sally Haine

wildhorsebikeclub@gmail.com

Blissett Says Education and Training are Keys to Jobs and the Economy

Blissett talking with College students

Kootenay East NDP candidate Norma Blissett says education and skills training are at the heart of the BC NDP’s new approach to jobs and the economy.

“An NDP government will invest $40 million in skills training and $100 million in a student grants program annually,” said Blissett.  “That way, we can grow the economy, create jobs and reduce inequality.”

The $40 million investment in BC’s skills training and apprenticeship system will increase training spaces, shorten completion times and improve completion rates, according to Blissett.  The NDP plans to include business and labour as full partners in BC’s apprenticeship system.

“The $100 million needs-based, non-repayable grant program will make college and university more affordable for students,” said Blissett.  “A New Democrat government would also make a one-time investment of $20 million in a scholarship fund which they will invite private sector and community-based partners to match.”

The education and training program will cost $87 million in 2013-14, $172 million in 2014-15 and $226 million in 2015-16. Consistent with Adrian Dix’s commitment to maintain tax competitiveness and show clearly how the NDP will pay for its commitments, this announcement has been fully costed in the BC NDP’s fiscal plan.

For more information, contact Norma Blissett:  250-489-3408.

The NDP fiscal plan can be found by scrolling down at:
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2013/04/11/bc-ndp-platform-costs.html

Cranbrook Devon, UK reports on Cranbrook BC

Click to enlarge or go to the dropbox link which considerably enlarges this clipping.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/39034343/expressecho.pdf

Post Notes for the Council Meeting of April 22nd 2013

Delegations

Solar Community, Guy Dauncey from EarthFuture.  Potential to become a Solar Community. 
Guy Dauncey presented many interesting data concerning solar energy along with slides to demonstrate the varying ways in which solar energy can be used.  Cranbrook has now been designated an official 'solar community' and has a goal of 229 solar systems in the near future.  Solar BC will be working with the City to investigate such potential projects as solar energy for the swimming pool.  To read more about Solar BC.
http://www.solarbc.ca/learn/solar-champions/guy-dauncey

Trail development between Cranbrook and Warder Al Skukas and Oliver Thomae
Al Skukas and Oliver Thomae presented the plans for the trail to Wardner on behalf of Trails BC.  The total distance through the City's utility corridor, crown land and non status forestry property will be 35 kilometres.  Affected authorities have been consulted with and funding sources have been identified.  The surface of this new trail will not be asphalt but it will be a hard surface suitable for cycling and hiking.  Cranbrook has already become a destination for such trail users as hikers, geocachers and cyclists and this new system will open many new potential circuits.  This will be an exciting new addition to our existing trails.  Skukas and Thomae asked Council for a letter of support and for permission to use the utility corridor in a stewardship function.
Congratulations to this hard working team who have coordinated this exciting new proposal.

Administrative Report
The full report concerning the following topics can be read at:
https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2943

Beekeeping in other municipalities – report

Cranbrook Mall and historical newspaper report

Buskers

Engineering

Valleyview Sanitary Sewer Project

Fire and Emergency Services

Cranbrook Fire & Emergency Services has completed a design concept and cost analysis for the new fire services training facility. The analysis suggested that it wouldbe more practical and cost effective to construct a facility at the current fire station. Originally the intention was to build a facility on property allocated for a future satellite hall. At the time of the proposal, it was anticipated that a satellite hall would be needed and constructed within a seven-year period. The satellite hall was contingent on a percentage build out of the Shadow Mountain and Wildstone developments. Recognizing the build out will not occur as originally predicted, it is anticipated that it may be at least another 10-15 years before the additional tax base could support a second fire station. Upon review of the two options, it was apparent that it would be more

operationally and cost effective to construct the facility at the current fire station. The proposed facility would be designed to blend with the new fire station and the residential area, while having the durability to withstand prolonged industrial level training.

Public Works

Arbour Day

Public Works along with BC Hydro will be hosting a tree planting session in honour of

Arbour Day on May 4 from approximately 9:00am to 1 :OOpm at the Kinsmen Greenbelt. We will be planting 24 trees of various species along the Rotary Pathway. Be Hydro will be donating $2500 and approximately 25 volunteers to help plant the trees. Public Works will be providing equipment, topsoil, mulch and partial funding for the trees. Council is invited to participate in this event, bring your shovel and plant a tree for Arbour Day.

Petitions

Request for construction of brick wall at Victoria Ave. and 1^st St S
This exit/entrance was discussed at length with Councillors Pallesen and Scott stating that the issue with the intersection had been taken to the Cranbrook in Motion Committee on more than one occasion. Authorities have looked at the area and concluded that when driven with care the intersection was not dangerous.  After discussion and input from other councillors it was agreed to take this back to the Cranbrook in Motion Committee again.

Correspondence

beginning;

9.1   https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2945  Small Business Award
Mayor Stetski moved that the city apply for this award. Carried.

9.2   Mt Baker prom request
A previous request had already been responded to and denied.  The general opinion of Council was expressed that Council does not have the funds and should not be frequently augmenting  funds for such events.

9.3 Funding request from Rocky Mountain Naturalists for their 2013 Conference
Although the ask was for $500, $300 was approved.  Councillor Pallesen voted against this motion with no reason being given. It has been common for Council to approve some assistance for 'one of' Conferences of this kind. A large sum of money being provided to JCI's  (Junior Chamber International) in the fall of last year for example.

9.4  World Oceans Day Canada
Received for information.

9.5  Phillipine Independence Day Request.
The full request of over $400 was denied but the fee of $65 for use of Spirit Square bandstand was waived with one councillor voting against. Although Councillor Pallesen initially stated she would be able to support this, she voted against this motion.

9.6 Heritage Brick Electrical Building
The demolition has been put on hold once more in order to allow members of the public to present a plan for restoring the building.  Councillor Scott felt the building might not be in the right location and that there might be a possibility of reconstructing it elsewhere, possibly for public washrooms.
Comment
Part of the building's history is this location and one suggestion has been that after stabilisation it be used for storage of picnic tables for ready use in Rotary Park.

9.6  Relay for Life event request for barricades and garbage cans.
Approved

9.7  Music Mondays Rotary Park Request from Audrey Stetski, Music Teachers
Mayor Stetski recused himself from this request for the waiving of the $65 bandstand fee. Carried.

9.8   Hospital Auxiliary request for handicap parking
Referred to Cranbrook in Motion Committee. Carried.

9.9  Vehicle speed 3^rd St S and 31^st Ave
Referred to the Cranbrook in Motion Committee. Carried.

Business Arising

Non Resident Leisure Service fees

https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2955
Council voted unanimously to move to option 5 which will involve working with the RDEK to come up with a cost sharing arrangement in order to to away with the two tier system.  The original ask of the RDEK was $1.25 million but it has been shown the actual cost to the City of  non Cranbrook resident use  is approximately $50,000.  

New Business

12.1 CBT Initiatives and Affected Areas
Grants approved. See https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2956

12.2 Proposed Boundary Expansion, 17^th St S.
This item produced considerable debate. Councillors Davis and Pallesen felt that the expansion of this piece of property should be approved.  Councillor Scott also voted for the proposal although she stated she had some reservations.  The remaining Council members however all stated clearly that piecemeal expansion of the boundaries is not appropriate for many reasons.  It has been shown that the city has enough residential lots for the next 57 years.  There are considerable issues with infrastructure surrounding this piece of property even though the proponent offered to assist with some costs.  Councillors Warner, Cross, Whetam and Mayor Stetski all felt expansion needs to be sustainably planned. The request was denied with a vote of 4 to 3.

12.3 Cycle Walk Trail, To seek Council's authorization to renew an agreement with Trails BC to designate sections of the  CyclelWalk Trail System as Trans Canada Trail.
Carried

12.4 Isadore Canyon Utility Right of Way To seek Council's authorization to renew an agreement with Trails Be to designate the Isadore  Canyon Utility Right of Way as Trans Canada Trail.
Carried

12.5 El Camino Trailer Court To seek Council's approval to file a Notice on Title on property at 700 Patterson St W, Cranbrook, BC pursuant to section 57 of the Community Charter
Several mobile homes have been placed on this property without the correct permits and setbacks.  Some decks are in non-compliance and conditions have not been met within the last three years.  The out of town owners of the property were present as Tracey McGuire the City's Building Inspector, explained the liability that comes with contravention of bylaws which are in place for fire and safety reasons.  Owners were given time to ask questions but Council approved Notice of Title to be placed on these properties in order that they be brought into compliance and City Bylaws observed. 

Bylaws

13.1  3751 Airport Lands To consider second reading, referral to the Advisory Planning Commission, and submission of the proposed amendment of the Official Community Plan Bylaw (OCP) to a Public Hearing. The proposed OCP amendment will designate the Airport Lands as a development permit area and approve associated Development Permit Guidelines relating to expanded industrial/commercial development of the Airport Lands.
Carried

13.2  3755 The proposed OCP amendment will:

• add new sections referencing the City's Integrated Community Sustainability Plan (ICSP) and Growth Management Study (GMS);

• provide new and updated policies with respect to the regional context, sustainable land use, municipal boundary extensions, and social, institutional and community considerations;

• modify a number of provisions and guidelines for the City's Development Permit Areas which will help clarify and streamline the application process.

https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2962
Carried

13.3  3766

To consider first and second reading and referrals for a bylaw to amend various sections of City of Cranbrook Zoning Bylaw 3737, 2012, in order to clarify definitions and update permitted uses and amend regulations for commercial zones.
Carried

13.4  3767 Five Year Financial Plan To present the Five Year Financial Plan for 2013 to 2017 to Council for third reading.
Carried as amended
https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2956

13.5 3768 Tax Rate

https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2965

13.6 Proposed Regulations for Shipping Containers

Proposed regulations to accommodate the use of shipping containers within the City include the following:

• A definition is added to the Zoning Bylaw for shipping and cargo containers used in the regular transport and shipping of goods, which differentiates them from those used for storage purposes.
• Shipping Containers used for storage would be permitted the C-2 - Highway Commercial Zone, the M-1 , M-2 and M-3 Industrial Zones, and the P-3 - Public Utility Zone and sited in accordance with the applicable property line setbacks of the zone for an accessory building or structure.
• Shipping containers would be limited to a maximum of six containers per parcel or one container per 400 sq m of parcel area, whichever is less. The number of containers permitted may also be limited by requirements for property line setbacks for buildings and the site area required for parking, loading areas and drive accesses. 
• A fire separation space of 3 metres would also be required between containers and other buildings. Shipping containers would be required to be located behind the front face of a principal building on a site and to provide screening from adjacent residential properties and public highways.
• Shipping containers would not be permitted to be stacked or used as a habitable room or for human occupancy.

Pending Council's concurrence, the proposed Zoning Bylaw amendment will be referred to the Advisory Planning Commission for recommendation, and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for approval, and advertised in the Daily Townsman as part of the required notification for the Public Hearing. 
Carried

Ready Set Learn

It was a busy day at Gordon Terrace School yesterday as the Ready Set Learn Fair took place in the Gym.  Moms, Dads and preschool children were there to see what child services are available in the area.

Down in Mrs. Ruoss's Kindergarden room some other babies were just making their way into the world much to the fascination and excitement of the kindergarten students.

PT the Clown and fans

Frankie Seitz, Child Care Resource and Referral , Program Consultant East Kootenay Region,
250-426-5677

Moms and babies

Nate and Kayson

Incubator world, two chicks and one hatching

Kayson, Nate, Ryan and Nicholas with newly hatched chicks

first out

A Message from Mayor Stetski

Civic Pride

Spring has sprung,

The grass has ‘ris

I wonder where

Our Civic Pride is!

Over the last couple of weeks I’ve received two letters from visitors to Cranbrook concerned about what they perceive as “eyesores” in our city, one an abandoned building on Hwy 3 and the other a concern behind Joseph Creek village.  They both included a reference to “where is your Civic Pride.”  We’ve come an incredibly long way in improving the look of our city in the last decade but it got me thinking about what more we can all do. 

WHAT THE CITY CAN DO

The City’s Unsightly Premises Bylaw 3390

There are a couple of aspects to this bylaw:

5.01  No owner or occupier of real property within the City shall permit or allow their property to become, or remain, untidy or unsightly.

This provides for the opportunity for the City to get involved in extreme cases where complaints have been received from citizens.  The penalty can be up to $2000 for every offence.   The bylaw officer, instead of issuing a court summons for the offence, can also schedule a contractor to clean up the identified unsightly property at the expense of the property owner, with expenses billed to the owner and added to their taxes, if unpaid. The challenge for us is what does untidy or unsightly mean in the eyes of the Court?  Our bylaw officers have to use their judgement as to how serious the offence is.  Our initial approach is to contact the home or lot owner and ask them to voluntarily clean it up which is the best outcome for the owner, the neighbourhood and for Civic Pride.

5.02  Remedying Unsightliness on Real Property

(i)  Every owner or occupier of real property, or their agents, shall remove therefrom any accumulations of filth, discarded materials, rubbish, brush or other growth cuttings of any kind.

(ii) Every owner or occupier of real property, or their agents, shall CLEAR such property of any vegetation.

The word CLEAR means “to cut down or remove noxious weeds, vegetation or growth in a manner which prevents the ripening and scattering of their seeds and restricts their growth.”  Short version - vacant lots should not have Noxious Weeds like Knapweed or another 25 species defined in the bylaw, growing on them.

5.03  Infestation by Noxious or Destructive Insects

Property owners are required to prevent infestations by caterpillars or other noxious or destructive insects and to clear the property of such insects.

The city applies the same approach and penalties to 5.02 and 5.03 as outlined in 5.01.

Highway 3/95 Revitalization Committee

Another way the city is working on improving our community is through this committee.  This group of interested stakeholders is walking Hwy 3 from Elizabeth Lake to just past the eastern entrance overpass over a period of weeks and identifying potential improvements.  The list is long – vacant buildings, old signs, lots with invasive weeds, areas without landscaping, very visible dumpsters, an abandoned telephone booth, etc.  Once the group has firmed up an overall vision and categorized all of the possible short and long term improvements we will be inviting the public into the conversation, likely this fall, prior to finalizing an action plan.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

I’d like to ask you to perhaps go beyond keeping your own property looking good this summer.  Please consider:

·         Talking to a neighbour who perhaps is not keeping up their property and offer your help.  Say the Mayor sent you!  There may be a good reason why things aren’t looking so good and your help could be appreciated. 

·         Get together a neighbourhood work team and cut down the weeds in vacant lots after contacting the owner.  If you don’t know who owns the lot perhaps the city can help with identifying and contacting them.

·         Grab a garbage bag and a pair of gloves and go for a walk in your neighbourhood, a local park, or in the Cranbrook Community forest and pick up litter.  I do this from time to time – it’s a “feel-good” kind of thing to do!

·         Report unsightly properties or vacant lots with NOXIOUS (Invasive weeds) to the City Bylaw office at 250-489-9598.  Remember though that unsightliness is in the eye of the beholder and our Bylaw Officers may determine that pursuing a charge wouldn’t stand up in court.

·         If areas around bus stop benches need improving call 250-489-2412 or the city.

I know that you take pride in this community that we call Home.  I’d be interested in hearing other ideas that you may have on what the City, and citizens, can do to demonstrate to all visitors to Cranbrook that indeed we have great Civic Pride!

Mayor Wayne Stetski

This is Earth Day 2013

What are you doing for Earth Day 2013?  Of course everyday needs to be Earth day but just for today could you do something more? Maybe:

Picking up litter in your neighbourhood
Signing up for a Recycling Service
Starting a compost pile
Collecting up all your old batteries and taking them to a recycling station
Walking to work
Riding your bike or taking public transportation
Turning the heat down.
Replace old lightbulbs with energy efficient ones
Commit to putting reusable grocery bags near the door ready to go EVERY time you need groceries

There are many changes we need to make everyday in order to preserve this planet.  Today is a day that new habits might be created.

http://www.earthday.org/2013/

Our one page Recycle Guide is downloadable here:
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/39034343/Recycle%20Guide%205.doc

Wild Voices for Kids

Wild Voices for Kids Spring Program Launch! Earth Day - Monday, April 22 CBEEN Growing Wild on Earth Day! After succeeding in reaching its $25,000.00 fundraising target, CBEEN is excited to announce it is launching it's Wild Voices for Kids program on April 22 - Earth Day!  CBEEN would like to recognize all of the funders that came on board, including major donors Canadian Pacific and the Regional District of East Kootenay. CBEEN currently offers 133 different programs by 79 community educators.  Field trips include snowshoeing, avalanche safety training, pond explorations and opportunities to see Kokanee Salmon spawning.  In-class presentations cover a wide range of natural and cultural heritage topics.  Last year over 10,000 students took part in 441 presentations and field trips across the 6 school districts in the Columbia Basin.   So far this year 4,700 students have been able to take part. To book your WVFK presentation click here! After two major federal funding sources dried up in 2012, CBEEN has been looking for more local and regional support for its popular programs.   CBEEN has the goal of being able to offer at least one presentation to every student in the Columbia Basin region every year (~20,000 students in total!).  CBEEN will continue its fundraising efforts to allow it to continue to expand the number of programs it offers. On average it only costs $10/student for CBEEN to offer a Wild Voices for Kids program.  CBEEN is hosting two wine & cheese events in the East Kootenay this Spring to offer prospective funders the opportunity to have an up close and personal look at CBEEN.  For more information please contact Whittick at 250-341-6141 orinfo@cbeen.org.  CBEEN has also just been listed as a registered charity, and charitable donations can be made at www.cbeen.org.

Our mailing address is: Columbia Basin Environmental Education Network (CBEEN) PO Box 34 Cranbrook, BC V1C 4H6 Canada

PreNotes for the Council Meeting of April 22nd 2013, 6:00pm

Delegations

1. Solar Community, Guy Dauncey from EarthFuture.  Potential to become a Solar Community
2. Trail development between Cranbrook and Warner Al Skukas and Oliver Thomae

Administrative Report

Beekeeping in other municipalities – report

Cranbrook Mall and historical newspaper report

Buskers

Engineering

Valleyview Sanitary Sewer Project

Fire and Emergency Services

Cranbrook Fire & Emergency Services has completed a design concept and cost analysis for the new fire services training facility. The analysis suggested that it wouldbe more practical and cost effective to construct a facility at the current fire station. Originally the intention was to build a facility on property allocated for a future satellite hall. At the time of the proposal, it was anticipated that a satellite hall would be needed

and constructed within a seven-year period. The satellite hall was contingent on a percentage build out of the Shadow Mountain and Wildstone developments. Recognizing the build out will not occur as originally predicted, it is anticipated that it may be at least another 10-15 years before the additional tax base could support a second fire station. Upon review of the two options, it was apparent that it would be more

operationally and cost effective to construct the facility at the current fire station. The proposed facility would be designed to blend with the new fire station and the residential area, while having the durability to withstand prolonged industrial level training.

Public Works

Arbour Day

Public Works along with BC Hydro will be hosting a tree planting session in honour of

Arbour Day on May 4 from approximately 9:00am to 1 :OOpm at the Kinsmen Greenbelt. We will be planting 24 trees of various species along the Rotary Pathway. Be Hydro will be donating $2500 and approximately 25 volunteers to help plant the trees. Public Works will be providing equipment, topsoil, mulch and partial funding for the trees. Council is invited to participate in this event, bring your shovel and plant a tree for Arbour Day.

Petitions

Request for construction of brick wall at Victoria Ave. and 1^st St S

Correspondence

beginning

9.1   https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2945  Small Business Award

9.2   Mt Baker prom request

9.3  World Oceans day Canada

9.4  Phillipine Independence day Request

9.5  Heritage Brick Electrical Building

9.6  Relay for Life event

9.7  Music Mondays Rotary park Request

9.8   Hospital Auxiliary request for handicap parking

9.9  Vehicle speed 3^rd St S and 31^st Ave

Business Arising

Non Resident Leisure Service fees

https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2955

New Business

12.1 CBT Initiatives and Affected Areas

12.2 Proposed Boundary Expansion, 17^th St S.

12.3 Cycle Walk Trail, To seek Council's authorization to renew an agreement with Trails BC to designate sections of the  CyclelWalk Trail System as Trans Canada Trail.

12.4 Isador Canyon Utility Right of Way To seek Council's authorization to renew an agreement with Trails Be to designate the Isadore  Canyon Utility Right of Way as Trans Canada Trail.

12.5 El Camino Trailer Court To seek Council's approval to file a Notice on Title on property at 700 Patterson St W, Cranbrook, BC pursuant to section 57 of the Community Charter

Bylaws

13.1  3751 Airport Lands To consider second reading, referral to the Advisory Planning Commission, and submission of the proposed amendment of the Official Community Plan Bylaw (OCP) to a Public Hearing. The proposed OCP amendment will designate the Airport Lands as a development permit area and approve associated Development Permit Guidelines relating to expanded industrial/commercial development of the Airport Lands.

13.2  3755 The proposed OCP amendment will:

• add new sections referencing the City's Integrated Community Sustainability Plan (ICSP) and Growth Management Study (GMS);

• provide new and updated policies with respect to the regional context, sustainable land use, municipal boundary extensions, and social, institutional and community considerations;

• modify a number of provisions and guidelines for the City's Development Permit Areas which will help clarify and streamline the application process.

https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2962

13.3  3766

To consider first and second reading and referrals for a bylaw to amend various sections of City of Cranbrook Zoning Bylaw 3737, 2012, in order to clarify definitions and update permitted uses and amend regulations for commercial zones.

13.4  3767 Five Year Financial Plan To present the Five Year Financial Plan for 2013 to 2017 to Council for third reading.

13.5 3768 Tax Rate

https://cranbrook.civicweb.net/Documents/DocumentList.aspx?ID=2965

13.6 Proposed Regulations for Shipping Containers

Proposed regulations to accommodate the use of shipping containers within the City include the following:

• A definition is added to the Zoning Bylaw for shipping and cargo containers used in the regular transport and shipping of goods, which differentiates them from those used for storage purposes.
• Shipping Containers used for storage would be permitted the C-2 - Highway Commercial Zone, the M-1 , M-2 and M-3 Industrial Zones, and the P-3 - Public Utility Zone and sited in accordance with the applicable property line setbacks of the zone for an accessory building or structure.
• Shipping containers would be limited to a maximum of six containers per parcel or one container per 400 sq m of parcel area, whichever is less. The number of containers permitted may also be limited by requirements for property line setbacks for buildings and the site area required for parking, loading areas and drive accesses. 
• A fire separation space of 3 metres would also be required between containers and other buildings. Shipping containers would be required to be located behind the front face of a principal building on a site and to provide screening from adjacent residential properties and public highways.
• Shipping containers would not be permitted to be stacked or used as a habitable room or for human occupancy.

Pending Council's concurrence, the proposed Zoning Bylaw amendment will be referred to the Advisory Planning Commission for recommendation, and the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for approval, and advertised in the Daily Townsman as part of the required notification for the Public Hearing.