February 20, 2017 Regular Council Summary

2016 a strong year for development
2016 saw another strong year with even growth across the community. A total of 1,126 new residential units including 332 Single Family Dwellings were constructed in 2016. The construction value for all types of development totaled over $200M in 2016.
Section 5 a
Information received.

Events centre project updates
Four more open houses are planned for the proposed events centre project. Upcoming sessions will be held from 6-8 pm at the Moose Hall on February 21, Harewood Activity Centre on February 23, Beban Park Social Centre Lounge on March 1 and from 3 pm to 7 pm on March 7 in the Royal Arbutus Room at Vancouver Island University.
Section 5 c
Information received.

The proposed events centre project team was announced. If the referendum should pass, the team will consist of a legal advisor from Weirfoulds LLP, financial advisor from Ernst and Young Orenda Corporate Finance Inc, architect from BBB Architects Toronto Inc, project manager from Colliers Project Leaders and a yet to be determined facility operator. $291,000 was set aside from the General Capital Reserve for Phases 3 and 4 of the project. 
Section 8 a
Motion carried.

Applications open for downtown event funding
Community organizations seeking funding for special events downtown are encouraged to submit an application for the Downtown Event and Revitalization Fund. The grant recognizes the value annual events have in building vitality in the downtown and enhancing Nanaimo’s profile as a destination of choice. The application closing date is March 31 at 4:00 pm. 
Section 8 b
Information received.

City works with SD68 on NDSS lands
The City has agreed to purchase lands on the NDSS property that contain the Rotary Bowl and Serauxmen Stadium from the school district for a total of $4.1 million. A public open house will be held in March regarding the potential sale.

In addition, the City and school district are also working together to build a $2.4 million artificial turf field at NDSS that can accommodate a regulation size Canadian Football League field. The City will contribute $1.2 million out of the Community Works Fund. It is expected to be open for use in the fall.
Section 5 b
Information received.

Poet Laureate program expanded
Nanaimo’s poetry community has more representation with the announcement of our new Poet Laureate, Tina Biello and the addition of Youth Poet Laureate, Kailey DeFehr. 
Section 5 d
Information received.

Development around Nanaimo
An application to subdivide the property located at 6003 Nelson Road into a single family residential dwelling and a 16-unti multi-family dwelling was approved with variances to the rear and side yard setbacks. 
Section 9 b
Motion carried.

February 20, 2017 Regular Council Meeting - agenda, documents and video