Revitalizing Terminal-Nicol
After a series of public and stakeholder engagement sessions, the project to redevelop Terminal and Nicol Streets is moving into the next phase with a plan for the revitalization of this corridor to be presented to Council before the end of the year. The public is invited to review the draft plan October 29 between 11 am and 3 pm at the Dish Restaurant at 11 Terminal Avenue.
Section 5a
Information was received.
Downtown vibrancy continues
The downtown core has seen a lot of improvement over recent years. John Cooper of the Downtown Nanaimo Business Improvement Association (DNBIA) filled Council in on some recent projects to bring vibrancy to the area including design charrettes during the Royal Architecture Institute of Canada conference earlier this summer.
Section 5b
Motion carried: Unanimous.
Old water reservoir lands studied
A study into the old water reservoir lands on Nanaimo Lakes Road was recently completed. It looked into environmental and archeological characteristics as well as the existing infrastructure in place. The study will be used for consideration of future uses for the properties.
Section 9b
Information was received.
Funding marked for strategic priorities
$200,000 will be set aside for implementing the priority projects and initiatives identified in Council’s updated Strategic Plan. The five projects include development of the South Downtown Waterfront (1 Port Drive), redevelopment of the Beban Park facilities, a sports and entertainment centre, a connected waterfront walkway and a Georgia Avenue pedestrian/cycle bridge over the Chase River. The initiatives are an affordable housing strategy and a property acquisition strategy.
Section 8a
Motion carried: Unanimous.
Property taxes waved
A total of 110 organizations will have their 2017 property taxes exempted. The types of organizations include non-profits, senior citizens’ housing facilities, community care facilities, churches and museums.
Section 8b
Motion carried: Unanimous.
Travel assistance for Lawn Bowling Club
The Nanaimo Lawn Bowling Club received a $350 grant to support seven players attend the Blind Bowlers Association of Canada National Championships in Ladner.
Section 9f
Motion carried: Unanimous.
Pickleball here to stay in Nanaimo
The two temporary pickleball courts in Beban Park will now become permanent following public feedback of the popularity of this sport in Nanaimo. A plan is in place to add six new pickleball courts in Beaufort Park when the existing tennis courts are slated for improvements.
Section 9d
Motion carried: Unanimous.
New crosswalk lights for school
The crosswalk in front of Chase River Elementary School will get new pedestrian warning lights thanks to $15,000 in funding from ICBC’s Road Improvement Program.
Section 9a
Motion carried: Unanimous.
September 26, 2016 Special Council Meeting - agenda, documents and video