May 19, 2020 - Minutes
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General Purposes Committee
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Date: |
Tuesday, May 19, 2020 |
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Place: |
Council Chambers |
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Present: |
Mayor Malcolm D. Brodie, Chair |
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Call to Order: |
The Chair called the meeting to order at 4:01 p.m. |
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AGENDA ADDITIONS |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That Meeting Schedule be added to the agenda as Item No. 10 and Farm Signs be added to the agenda as Item No. 11. |
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CARRIED |
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MINUTES |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That the minutes of the meeting of the General Purposes Committee held on May 4, 2020, be adopted as circulated. |
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CARRIED |
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COUNCILLOR KELLY GREENE |
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1. |
PATIO APPLICATIONS |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That the issue of patio applications be referred back to staff to create and report back on a streamlined application and permitted process for outside patios to expand the usable floor space for existing restaurants, cafes, and pubs until the end of 2020, and that the proposed program would be reviewed three months after final adoption. |
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The question on the motion was not called as discussion ensued with regard to (i) the proposed initiative’s temporary time period and implementation process, (ii) options to use some sidewalk, parking and road space, (iii) opportunities to expand the initiative to include vehicle dine-in options, (iv) options to implement permanent policies related to expansion of patio space, (v) limiting the proposed initiative only for restaurant businesses, and (vi) implementing a review process for the proposed initiative. |
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In reply to queries from Committee, staff noted that (i) the City is in contact with other municipalities that are exploring similar initiatives and that staff can explore other uses for temporary outdoor space for restaurants, (ii) staff anticipate that the proposed initiative on the temporary outdoor space will not have significant impact to heritage buildings and as such, participating properties will not require a Heritage Alteration Permit, and (iii) the size of sidewalks vary throughout the city and staff can explore appropriate patio configurations to maximize pedestrian safety. |
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The question on the motion was then called and it was CARRIED. |
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Discussion then took place on the enforcement of Heritage Alteration Permit requirements in the Steveston area, and as a result the following motion was introduced: |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That staff be directed to take steps to temporarily suspend enforcement of Heritage Alteration Permit requirements in the Steveston Village Heritage Conservation Area (SVHCA) to allow temporary installation of patios. |
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The question on the motion was not called as staff provided further advice on the timing of presenting a resolution to suspend enforcement of Heritage Alteration Permit requirements to Council, and as a result there was agreement from the mover, the seconder and all members present to withdraw the motion, and the motion was WITHDRAWN. |
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2. |
LETTER FOR LIQUOR LICENSING |
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It was moved and seconded |
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To write a letter to the BC Attorney General, B.C. Minister of Jobs, the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB), and the Richmond MLAs, in favour of a temporary, expedited, and low-cost application process for liquor licenses for businesses who are adding patio space as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. |
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CARRIED |
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COUNCILLOR CHAK AU |
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3. |
A Statement Against Racist Speech and Violence Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic |
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Discussion ensued with regard to options to mitigate recent hate incidents related to the Pandemic occurring in the Lower Mainland and as a result, the following motion was introduced: |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That Council adopt and endorse the following statement: |
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A Statement Against Racism Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic |
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In Richmond, we are a community that celebrates a rich history of culture, diversity and heritage linked to the arrival and influence of immigrants that began over a century ago. |
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The City of Richmond does not - and never will - condone or tolerate racist behaviour in any form. Such attitudes and actions do not reflect our community's cultural diversity or the spirit of inclusion that we are all proud of. |
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Events of the past few months have created uncertainty, frustration and fear for some. But that is no excuse to cast blame on others. COVID-19 should not be blamed on any single culture or country and it is certainly not the fault of anyone in our community. |
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Now, more than ever, we must stand together and be true to our shared values of diversity, inclusion and respect. Racial and discriminatory responses and actions have no place in Richmond. They have no place in our society. |
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The question on the motion was not called as it was suggested that staff provide online resources supporting individuals impacted by such incidents. |
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The question on the motion was then called and it was CARRIED. |
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ENGINEERING AND PUBLIC WORKS DIVISION |
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4. |
2019 Climate Action Revenue Incentive Program and Corporate Carbon Neutral Progress Report |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That the Climate Action Revenue Incentive Program Report and Carbon Neutral Progress Report, as described in the staff report titled, “2019 Climate Action Revenue Incentive Program and Corporate Carbon Neutral Progress Report” dated April 24, 2020, from the Director, Sustainability and District Energy, be posted on the City’s website for public information, in accordance with Provincial requirements. |
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The question on the motion was not called as discussion ensued with regard to (i) the Sun Hor Lum Conservation Area Credits, (ii) carbon credits generated by the City’s corporate activities, (iii) options to encourage adoption of a higher BC Energy Step Code, (iv) monitoring water use and water pressure during summer months, and (v) exploring the use of microorganisms to strengthen the City’s dike system. |
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In reply to queries from Committee, staff noted that (i) a memorandum can be provided on the carbon credits previously received, (ii) staff can provide residents with information on natural lawn demonstration sites in the city, and (iii) the Community Energy and Emissions Plan is the City’s main initiative to mitigate greenhouse gases. |
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The question on the motion was then called and it was CARRIED. |
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COMMUNITY SAFETY DIVISION |
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5. |
Proposed Bylaw Amendment to Allow Backyard Chickens on Properties within the Agricultural Land Reserve |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That the Animal Control Regulation Bylaw No. 7932, Amendment Bylaw No. 10157, to allow the keeping of backyard chickens on properties located within the Agricultural Land Reserve, be introduced and given first, second and third readings. |
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The question on the motion was not called as discussion ensued with regard to (i) lot size requirements to raise chickens, (ii) concerns related to potential neighbourhood complaints related to odours and noise, (iii) concerns related to potential diseases and attracting predators and pests such as coyotes and rodents, (iv) options to allow backyard chickens in residential single-family lots, (iv) the backyard chicken regulations in other municipalities, (v) options to limit the number of chickens permitted on-site, (vi) options for building and fencing requirements, and (vii) encouraging chicken farming as a way to help address food security issues. |
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In reply to queries from Committee, staff noted that the proposed bylaw amendment would align the City’s regulations with the Farm Practices Protection (Right to Farm) Act and would allow backyard chickens on agricultural lots that are at least 2000 m2 in size. |
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As a result of the discussion, the following referral motion was introduced: |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That the staff report titled “Proposed Bylaw Amendment To Allow Backyard Chickens On Properties Within The Agricultural Land Reserve”, dated April 22, 2020, from the General Manager, Community Safety, be referred back to staff to examine the following: |
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(1) |
building and fencing requirements; |
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(2) |
the maximum number of chickens; and |
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(3) |
other related requirements; |
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for backyard chickens in Agricultural Land Reserve lots, and report back. |
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The question on the referral motion was not called as it was suggested that the matter be forwarded to the Food Security and Agricultural Advisory Committee for consultation. |
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In reply to queries, staff noted that more information related to introducing regulations that align with the Farm Practices Protection (Right to Farm) Act can be provided to Committee. |
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The question on the motion was then called and it was CARRIED with Cllrs. Day, Greene, Steves and Wolfe opposed. |
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Discussion then ensued with regard to options to permit backyard chickens on single-family residential properties, and as a result, the following referral motion was introduced: |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That staff investigate allowing backyard chickens in single-family residential properties, including the maximum number of chickens, lot size requirements and other related requirements, and report back. |
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The question on the referral motion was not called as discussion ensued with regard to mitigation of potential noise and odours and options for public consultation opportunities. |
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The question on the referral motion was then called and it was CARRIED with Mayor Brodie opposed. |
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6. |
UBCM Community Emergency Preparedness Fund |
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It was moved and seconded |
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(1) |
That the application to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities Community Emergency Preparedness Fund for up to $25,000 in grant funding to support Emergency Support Services for the City of Richmond be endorsed; |
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(2) |
That the application to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities Community Emergency Preparedness Fund for up to $25,000 in grant funding to support Emergency Operations Centres & Training for the City of Richmond be endorsed; |
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(3) |
That the application to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities Community Emergency Preparedness Fund for up to $25,000 in grant funding to support Evacuation Route Planning for the City of Richmond be endorsed; |
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(4) |
That should the funding application be successful, the Chief Administrative Officer and the General Manager, Community Safety be authorized to execute the agreements on behalf of the City of Richmond with the UBCM; and |
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(5) |
That should the funding application be successful, the 2020-2024 Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw be adjusted accordingly. |
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CARRIED |
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COMMUNITY SERVICES DIVISION |
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7. |
2019 Richmond Film Office Year in Review |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That the staff report titled, “2019 Richmond Film Office Year in Review”, dated March 17, 2020, from the Director, Arts, Culture and Heritage Services, be received for information. |
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CARRIED |
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8. |
Revised City Event Program 2020 |
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It was moved and seconded |
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(1) |
That the Revised City Event Program 2020 and budget as outlined in Table 1 of the staff report titled “Revised City Event Program 2020”, dated April 20, 2020, from the Director, Arts, Culture and Heritage Services be approved; and |
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(2) |
That $808,000 be returned to the Rate Stabilization Account. |
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The question on the motion was not called as discussion ensued with regard to (i) proceeding with the 2020 Richmond Maritime Festival, (ii) options to support existing farmers markets, and (iii) opportunities to work with local artists in the Welcome Back Richmond event. |
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In reply to queries from Committee regarding the Neighbourhood Celebration Grants, staff noted that staff are recommending that the deadline for proposed activities be extended to 2021 with options for applicants to host events this year or in 2021. |
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Discussion then ensued with regard to increasing funding to support farmers markets and cancelling the 2020 Richmond Maritime Festival due to uncertainties stemming from the COVID-19 Pandemic, and as a result the following amendment motions were introduced: |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That the Revised City Event Program 2020 be amended to cancel the 2020 Richmond Maritime Festival and related funds returned to the Rate Stabilization Account. |
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CARRIED |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That funding to support farmers’ markets be increased to $20,000. |
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CARRIED |
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Staff clarified that the Richmond Arts Coalition has applied for a $65,000 grant towards programming for the 2020 Richmond Maritime Arts Festival, pending approval by the Department of Canadian Heritage. |
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In response to a Point of Order, staff noted that events under the 2020 Richmond Maritime Festival would be cancelled, however some boat-related programming through the Britannia Shipyards operating budget may proceed. |
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The question on the main motion, as amended, was then called and it was CARRIED, with Cllrs. Day, McPhail, Steves and Wolfe opposed. |
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9. |
Amendments to the Council Procedure Bylaw – Public Delegations and Public Hearings by Electronic Means |
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It was noted that the proposed amendments would be a temporary measure during times of emergency such as the current COVID-19 Pandemic and that members of the public are permitted to attend Council and Committee meetings in person. |
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It was moved and seconded |
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(1) |
That Council Procedure Bylaw No. 7560, Amendment Bylaw No. 10188, be introduced and given first, second and third readings. |
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(2) |
That Council Procedure Bylaw No. 7560, Amendment Bylaw No. 10188, be adopted. |
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CARRIED |
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10. |
Meeting Schedule |
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Discussion ensued with regard to proceeding with Council meetings in August 2020, and as a result, the following referral motion was introduced: |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That staff review the Council meeting schedule for the month of August 2020 and report back. |
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CARRIED |
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11. |
Farm Signs |
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In reply to queries from Committee, staff noted that staff have reviewed current city regulations and examined farm sign regulations in other municipalities. Staff added that staff have consulted with the Food Security and Agricultural Advisory Committee on the matter and staff are planning further communication with the farming community. Furthermore, staff noted that a report on the matter is forthcoming. |
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Discussion ensued with regard to (i) options to retain legacy farm signs and bring farm signs into compliance, (ii) timely clarification of sign regulations, (iii) supporting farmers during the harvest season, and (iv) potential locations for the placement of farm signs. |
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As a result of the discussion, the following referral motion was introduced: |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That matter related to the compliance of farm signs including the farm sign at W&A Farms be referred to staff for review and report back. |
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CARRIED |
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ADJOURNMENT |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That the meeting adjourn (6:25 p.m.). |
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CARRIED |
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Certified a true and correct copy of the Minutes of the meeting of the General Purposes Committee of the Council of the City of Richmond held on Tuesday, May 19, 2020. |
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Mayor Malcolm D. Brodie |
Evangel Biason |