February 3, 2026 - Minutes
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Planning Committee
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Date: |
Tuesday, February 3, 2026 |
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Place: |
Anderson Room |
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Present: |
Councillor Bill McNulty, Chair |
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Also Present: |
Councillor Michael Wolfe (by teleconference) |
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Call to Order: |
The Chair called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. |
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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 Planning Committee held on January 20, 2026, be adopted as circulated. |
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CARRIED |
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PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT & PUBLIC WORKS AND TRANSPORTATION DIVISIONS |
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1. |
(File Ref. No. 08-4430-03-01) (REDMS No. 8233122) |
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Staff provided an overview, highlighting that the proposed amendments generally seek to standardize and simplify parking provisions applicable to residential developments, particularly Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) developments. |
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Councillor Day entered the meeting (4:02 p.m.). |
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Discussion ensued regarding (i) the impact on trees, green space, and porous surfaces, with staff noting that other amendments within the overall zoning bylaw take precedence and continue to seek the preservation of live landscaping, and that the rear yard setback would not be affected by the proposed amendments, (ii) the established maximum driveway standard and the ability to consider reduced manoeuvring aisles, (iii) the proposed amendments aligning SSMUH with existing standards for single-family developments, with staff noting that the maximum drive aisle width is dependent on lot size and the minimum landscaping requirements applicable to the front yard, (iv) the impacts of the Province’s Bill 44, which prevents the City from requiring on-site parking for SSMUH development on lots located within 400 metres of a prescribed frequent transit service bus stops, (v) the proposed amendment not precluding homeowners, builders, or designers from providing more than the minimum on-site parking if desired, and (vi) the potential implementation of permit parking in areas experiencing parking concerns. |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That Richmond Zoning Bylaw 8500, Amendment Bylaw 10731, to clarify vehicle parking, access, and manoeuvring provisions associated with Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing (SSMUH) and small car space provisions associated with all residential development, including SSMUH, be introduced and given first, second and third reading. |
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CARRIED |
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PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DIVISION |
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2. |
Richmond Seniors Advisory Committee 2025 Annual Report and 2026 Work Program (File Ref. No. 08-4055-01) (REDMS No. 8255327) |
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Discussion ensued regarding (i) the budget for Council Advisory Committees, with staff noting that it reflects the City’s standard practice and is set in accordance with City policy and (ii) potential cost-saving measures, including alternatives to minute taking and the provision of refreshments. |
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It was moved and seconded |
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(1) |
That the Richmond Seniors Advisory Committee’s 2025 Annual Report, as outlined in the report titled, “Richmond Seniors Advisory Committee 2025 Annual Report and 2026 Work Program”, dated January 15, 2026, from the Director, Community Social Development, be received for information; and |
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(2) |
That the Richmond Seniors Advisory Committee’s 2026 Work Program be approved. |
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CARRIED |
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3. |
Richmond Intercultural Advisory Committee 2025 Annual Report and 2026 Work Program (File Ref. No. 07-3300-01) (REDMS No. 8244991) |
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It was moved and seconded |
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(1) |
That the Richmond Intercultural Advisory Committee's 2025 Annual Report, as outlined in the report titled “Richmond Intercultural Advisory Committee 2025 Annual Report and 2026 Work Program”, dated January 15, 2026, from the Director, Community Social Development, be received for information; and |
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(2) |
That the Richmond Intercultural Advisory Committee's 2026 Work Program be approved. |
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CARRIED |
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4. |
Cultural Harmony Plan 2024-2025 Highlights Report (File Ref. No. 07-3300-01) (REDMS No. 8241610) |
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Discussion ensued regarding (i) Communications staff coordinating engagement and proactive outreach with Richmond's Chinese-speaking community and (ii) the potential distribution of the Chinese Media report. |
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It was moved and seconded |
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(1) |
That the Cultural Harmony Plan 2024–2025 Highlights Report as outlined in the report titled, “Cultural Harmony Plan 2024–2025 Highlights Report”, dated January 16, 2026, from the Director Community Social Development, be received for information; and |
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(2) |
That the Cultural Harmony Plan 2024–2025 Highlights Report be posted on the City website and distributed to key partners, local Members of Parliament and the Legislative Assembly, and federal and provincial ministries related to multiculturalism, immigration and anti-racism. |
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CARRIED |
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5. |
MANAGER’S REPORT |
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None. |
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ADJOURNMENT |
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It was moved and seconded |
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That the meeting adjourn (4:22 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 Planning Committee of the Council of the City of Richmond held on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. |
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_________________________________ |
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Councillor Bill McNulty |
Shannon Unrau |