Curious about the Public Works Yard and the scope of the work that Public Works and Parks crews do out in our community? Visit these two interactive maps to learn more about the crews and facilities that keep our community moving!

A Look at the Public Works Yard

Located at 2020 Labieux Road, the Public Works Yard is a long and narrow stretch of land across from Beban Park that follows alongside the railway. The very active yard is where all of the City’s fleet is maintained, infrastructure supplies are stored and disaster response is coordinated. Our snow plows, sanitation trucks, hydro-vac truck and so many more mobilize from this yard. Tour through the map to learn more!

Public Works Yard Interactive Map

Public Works and Parks in the Community

Nanaimo’s Third Street Sports Corridor provides a perfect location to highlight the work and the reach of both Public Works and Parks Operations crews. From the parks, gardens and fields our crews maintain, to the storm and sanitary sewer, to the many ways we service our roads, there’s a lot of infrastructure in our community that we fully depend upon. Thankfully, our operations crews are on top of it all.

Public Works and Parks in the Community Interactive Map

Looking to learn even more about the Nanaimo Operations Centre Project and how a renewed facility will help keep these services going? Visit www.getinvolvednanaimo.ca/NOC

If you’ve been reading about natural gas lately, chances are you’ve heard of the shift in Nanaimo away from gas in new home construction. The story has momentum, to say the least.

But as with any story, if it isn’t told well, it can lead to a lot of rumours and confusion. In this case, the story has become much bigger – and far more confusing - than expected. 

On October 16, 2023, Nanaimo’s City Council made their final reading and approved the building bylaw amendment that limits the amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions a building is allowed to emit. As a result, this change restricts use of fossil fuels such as heating oil, natural gas and propane as primary heating sources in newly built homes. From the first mention of this as a possible change to its final acceptance, the rumoured story has been “the City of Nanaimo is banning gas!”

We’re not.

The emission restriction only applies to newly constructed buildings. As oil, natural gas and propane have higher GHG emissions factors than other sources like electricity, the bylaw will prevent the installation of any of them as a main heating source. Backup systems, such as wood and gas fireplaces, are still allowed in single family homes, duplexes and townhomes. In some cases, if the building is designed to be highly efficient, a gas cooking stove may also be allowed.   

Existing homes with gas heating are not being forced to change to a different heat source because of this bylaw change either (the Zero Carbon Step Code does not apply to existing homes). Full disclosure though; the City will always support and encourage our homeowners to switch to energy efficient and low-carbon energy systems such as heat pumps. We heard loud and clear during the ReImagine Nanaimo process that our community is extremely concerned about the environment, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions is one of the best ways to mitigate climate change. If you do wish to improve the energy efficiency and lower the greenhouse gas emissions of your home, we have rebates for that. 

With the national attention the City has garnered because of this change, it would be easy to think that the City of Nanaimo was the only community taking big steps toward reducing GHG emissions in new construction.

Again, we’re not.

The changes the City has made to the building code are all coming into play at the Provincial level by 2030 regardless. These changes are inevitable. BC’s Zero Carbon Step Code has a path to better home building laid out clearly. Nanaimo’s City Council has just implemented the changes early, which the Province of BC is supportive of. While we are excited to help lead the way, the City isn’t alone; nine municipalities have taken similar action, including Vancouver, Victoria, Saanich, Central Saanich and most recently North Cowichan.

In the end, it’s expected that about 160 new homes annually could be affected by the change, but even then, that’s only if they would have chosen natural gas as a main heat source. As the best alternative, energy efficient heat pumps are growing in popularity as a primary heat source with the added benefit of cooling a home during those hot summer days.

If you are on the fence about the costs of retrofitting your current home or making your new home energy-efficient and low-carbon, check out the new Home Energy Navigator Program, provided by the City of Nanaimo and the Regional District of Nanaimo. This free service connects residents with an Energy Concierge, who will be available throughout your retrofit project to answer questions, provide support, and give local, expert advice.

Learn more on our BC Energy Step Code and Zero Carbon Code webpage and, if you have any questions, please contact us at sustainability@nanaimo.ca.

*** UPDATE - February 12, 2024 ***

At a special council meeting held on Monday, February 12, City Council made the decision to cancel the current Alternative Approval Process (AAP), abandon the Nanaimo Operations Centre Phase One Borrowing Bylaw 2023 No. 7362, and direct staff to return to Council at a later date with options to fund the project. The decision comes after it was determined that an error had occurred at the start of the current AAP.

In a news release last week, the City indicated an error was identified where response forms were not made available upon notice of the AAP. City staff have reviewed the process, sought legal advice and have concluded that due to the response forms not being made available on the initial day of AAP notice (January 17, 2024), the requirements in the legislation have not been met.

For more information, read the staff report (https://pub-nanaimo.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=52849(External link))

*****

If we could ask Mother Nature to put the brakes on and give us a break, we would. But the heavy storms are still coming, winters ahead promise more snow and ice, and the threat of ‘the big one’ still lingers. Lucky for us, in Nanaimo, we have Public Works and Parks Operations quietly working in the background, keeping our pipes clean and flowing, our roads clear, and our trails beautiful and groomed.
It’s a lot like magic. We turn on the tap, and extremely clean drinking water comes out. We flush the toilet, and bawhoosh – gone. And when we wheel our carts to the curb, our organic waste, garbage and recycling just disappear. Out of sight and out of mind.

In fact, that’s how most of the City of Nanaimo’s operations teams try to work; in the background, with as little disruption to our daily lives as possible. The City’s Public Works and Parks Operations teams aren’t really looking to be celebrated, but we have reached a time when their work needs to be supported or delivering those services is going to be more difficult.

It takes infrastructure to maintain the equipment and fleet to maintain our infrastructure. That may sound ridiculous at first, until we reflect on how connected everything is. When a watermain breaks, the City isn’t sending a team out with shovels. Large trucks and heavy equipment will be sent out to replace the pipe and repair the damage. The fleet and equipment is all maintained in the aging service bays at our Public Works yard. If the equipment doesn’t work, the City can’t respond quickly to an emergency like this.

The same goes for the City’s fleet of fire trucks, which are also maintained at the Public Works Yard (even though they don’t fully fit in the service bays). Keeping Nanaimo’s priority routes clear during a snowstorm is less meaningful if the fire trucks are broken down. And imagine a City crew trying to remove a fallen tree by hand? Or a Parks crew mowing the fields at Beban Park with a manual lawn mower?

The facilities and infrastructure that make up the City of Nanaimo’s Public Works and Parks yards are far past their usable life and were only ever meant to service a community half of our size – which Nanaimo was, nearly 60 years ago when these old facilities were built.

And so, in front of us are plans to renew, rebuild and revitalize our Public Works yard into the Nanaimo Operations Centre (NOC); a facility that brings our Public Works and Parks Operations teams together in one location, efficient and ready for our growing city’s needs.

There is a price tag on efficiency, safety and progress, and those development costs fall to the taxpayers of Nanaimo. Therefore, it’s important that it’s the electors of Nanaimo that decide on whether the City moves forward with borrowing to fund this plan for an updated Nanaimo Operations Centre.

When borrowing large sums of money for infrastructure, municipalities have two options for gaining the approval of residents and taxpayers, and the process used often depends on the nature of the project. Is it a project that is critical to maintain City services, or is it a project that will benefit the community in other ways?

Option one is to hold a referendum. Also known as an Assent Vote, a referendum essentially works like an election and costs nearly $300,000 to run. Option two is a significantly more affordable option; known as an Alternative Approval Process (AAP), residents have an official way to object to the proposed project, and typically a 30-day window to do so; if 10% of eligible voters submit an official objection to the project, Council still has the option to take the project to referendum for approval. If less than 10% officially object, then the City may move forward. Improvements to the Public Works Yard are critical to maintain services well into the future, so in this case, the question of borrowing for the Nanaimo Operations Centre is ideal for an AAP.

Phase one of the new Nanaimo Operations Centre is focused on building a new fleet maintenance building, so we can continue to keep our fleet and heavy equipment operational and ready to go at a moment’s notice. We service everything from chain saws to recycling trucks in these facilities. It wouldn’t take much of a quake to knock the current building down, and a lot of the City’s trucks and fire trucks don’t even fit in the bays, so replacing this building is a top priority.

The Nanaimo Operations Centre is tentatively a ten-year project. Here's a look at the different phases:

Phase One (currently in AAP for a maximum borrowing of $48.5 million):

• Foundational work including a new fleet maintenance facility, truck wash facilities and utility servicing for future phases of the NOC project (max borrowing $40 million)
• Stormwater Management infrastructure at the yard and next door at Fire Rescue Station #2 (max borrowing $4.5 million)
• Fire Training Tower Fuel Conversion to convert from hazardous and environmentally poor wood burning training to an efficient gas system (max borrowing $1.25 million)
• New trail to complete the circular route of trails at Beban Park, in place of an otherwise necessary sidewalk spanning the length of the Public Works yard (max borrowing $2.75 million)
  

Future phases:

• Storage buildings,
• Storage structures and outdoor spaces
• Heavy fleet equipment areas
• Administration building
• Staff parking
• Secondary entrance
• Fueling stations
• Stores and supply building renovations

This is just a quick look at the project ahead. For more details, visit the in-depth Nanaimo Operations Centre Project Page and the NOC Alternative Approval Process page.

Environmental Responsibility

"We will protect and enhance Nanaimo’s natural environment by looking after the community’s biological diversity and adapt the way we live, work, recreate and move."

On July 1, 2021, a new bylaw regulating checkout bags in Nanaimo came into effect. Council implemented the plastic bag ban to reduce the impact that single-use checkout bags have to our community’s environment and beyond.

Economic Health

“We create a vibrant culture of innovation, stewardship and partnership to encourage a diverse and healthy economy now and into the future.” 

 Livability

“We will proactively plan for Nanaimo’s growth and focus on community infrastructure to support an inclusive, healthy, safe and desirable place to live.”

Governance Excellence

“We will develop a culture of excellence around governance, management and cost effective service delivery.”

Before the turn of the millennium, street design was mostly driven by the needs of cars and their passengers. Sidewalks were often an afterthought and bike lanes were rarely considered.

As a result, communities across Canada are left with road networks that don’t meet the needs of all users – and at a time where Green House Gas reduction and community health are more important than ever.

Enter Complete Streets.

[This attention grabbing green strip is called a conflict zone and stands out where the road and bike lane intersect.]

This newly embraced design policy considers all street users. From people walking, taking transit, cycling and driving, the Complete Streets principles help to create corridors that are safe for everyone.

This is a 180 in thinking. Complete Streets isn't strongly influenced by past roadways. Instead, it takes inspiration from the future.

Until recent years, using a bicycle for daily commuting was fairly rare. It makes sense too; Nanaimo has more hills than most people want to pedal over, especially on a cold, wet and dark winter’s day. Now that electric bicycles are more readily available, there’s a shift underway. With variable electric assist, hills are only as much of a challenge as the rider wants, and while these bikes can’t change the weather, LED headlight technology does help to light the way.

 [A before and after look at the Bowen Road Complete Streets project.]

The importance of walking has also stepped up in recent years. If sitting is the new smoking, then walking to work, school, or the grocery store becomes more than a means of transportation - it is a critical part of maintaining good physical and mental health.

[A before and after look at the Bowen Road Complete Streets project.]

It all adds up to more pedestrians and cyclists on the roads, and a need for safety allowances and improvements. Dedicated sidewalks and bicycle lanes, raised crosswalks, boulevards and buffers, light placement and extra visibility at intersections all play a part in Complete Streets design.

[A rendering showing how a Complete Streets design looks at multi-modal transportation] 

“If you build it, they will come.” This famous quote from the movie Field of Dreams applies nicely to the Complete Streets concept. At a park, most people won’t grab a compass and trail blaze through dense forest, but once a trail is in place, the park becomes a destination. In a similar way, the more safely connected our infrastructure becomes for all commuters, the more likely different forms of commuting will be embraced.

Imagine a community where all of our streets are safe enough for children to walk to school? Where streets are easy to navigate and travel for anyone with a disability, and that are inviting for seniors to walk and stay active. In 2019, Nanaimo was designated as an Age-Friendly Community by Age-Friendly BC. A part of this designation includes designing streets that are barrier free and accessible for all ages. 

[The bike lane here is raised to create separation from motorized traffic.]

With Complete Streets, all of this is achieved while still considering the needs of motorists. Our cars may eventually be all electric, but the automobile will likely be an integral part of our transportation network until something revolutionary replaces it.

Of course, we can’t talk about this incredible level of road improvements without also considering budget. Luckily, the costs of this kind of roadway construction is largely the same as a traditional road. Unfortunately, it isn’t feasible to completely overhaul every neighbourhood to these standards immediately, but when it's time for utility upgrades and road replacement, it just makes sense to make improvements.

 [A before and after look at the Bowen Road Complete Streets project.]

Another part of Complete Streets design which is crucial to success is public consultation. Watch our websites at www.Nanaimo.ca and www.getinvolvednanaimo.ca for opportunities to have your say. Coming soon will be an opportunity to provide input on updates to Stewart Avenue, as we look at adding some Complete Streets elements in partnership with the BC Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.

Complete Streets project links: 

• Bowen Road Project
• Metral Drive Project
• Stewart Avenue Project

• To watch this 360 degree video on your mobile device, just open the video, hold the phone in front of you, and turn in the direction you would like to see: up, down and all around. To watch on a computer, use your mouse to click on the screen and drag to change your viewing angle. If you need more time to look around at any point during the video, press pause and explore!

We are in the midst of a west coast winter, which means rain…lots of rain and a dash of snow. While, we may not get blasts of arctic air like those living to the north and east of us, it still gets cold enough that we need to heat our homes in the winter.

How are you heating your home?

We use a variety of heat sources in our homes from electric baseboard heaters to woodstoves and everyone has their own preference for what works best. But, did you know that there are ways to have a comfortable home while reducing your environmental impact? On top of that, you may also save some money! Rebates are available for switching over to energy efficient and low emission appliances.

Save some money and do your part for the planet

Switching to an energy efficient form of heating such as a heat pump not only reduces your carbon footprint, you can receive a rebate when you switch over from a fossil fuel (oil, natural gas or propane) heating system. The CleanBC Better Homes rebate program is available to BC residents looking to switch over to a heat pump from a fossil fuel system. City of Nanaimo residents can enjoy a $350 top-up from the City in addition to the rebate.  As a bonus, for a limited time, the program is offering double the rebate - up to $6,000! Find more information on the rebate, get your promo code and apply on the CleanBC Better Homes website. You can also take advantage of other rebates through this program; find more information on the CleanBC Better Homes Rebate page on the City website.

If you are looking to upgrade your old woodstove to one that is low emission, the City offers rebates through our Woodstove Changeout Program. This program is meant to improve air quality by helping those with old smoky wood stoves purchase a new cleaner burning stove.  Eligible homeowners can receive up to $400 in rebates for the purchase of a new low-emission woodstove. Some rules do apply. To be eligible, your existing woodstove must be:

• A free-standing, non-EPA certified "stove", a homemade or barrel stove,
• A so-called "airtight" non-EPA certified fireplace insert or tube-type heat exchanger with a face plate and door (like the Free Heat Machine or Welenco) that is currently installed in an open hearth fireplace,
• A non-EPA certified "wood furnace" (ducted, forced air, home heating appliance) - may only be replaced by an EPA certified wood furnace or pellet furnace, or
• A wood burning cook stove.

Your new woodstove must be purchased from a participating retailer. Finally, you must properly dispose of you old woodstove. You can find more information, a handy brochure and the rebate form on the Woodstove Change-Out Program page.

Woodstove image photo credit: Annie Spratt on Unsplash

2020 was so unusual that it’s hard to look back and see it as a glass half-full kind of year. From the toilet paper crisis in the spring to the newly normal shopping patterns we now follow, it’s been an emotional journey, full of frustration and patience-testing adjustment.

2020 put a hold on the handshake and the fist bump. While we wait patiently for a revival of these things that physically connect us, we move forward with as much resilience as we can, as if to say “Look 2020, you knocked us around but we’re still in the game.”

In fact, we’re so “in the game,” that maybe – just maybe – that glass really is half full. On the surface, 2020 was a doom and gloom year like no other, but for those of us who have so far dodged the virus... it’s made us stronger.

Before you roll your eyes, scoff, or yell out “good grief, Charlie Brown!” consider this: 2020 forced us all to adapt to an emergency situation, and we met the challenge. It pushed us to step back and consider our personal impact on others, and we did. It taught us to stay home if we are even a little sick and contagious, and we do.

As we navigated through these changes, it certainly wasn’t business as usual at the City, though we did continue forward with the usual business. We adapted our workflows, offices, public spaces and more to allow for new safety protocols to keep both staff and the public safe, and we’ve followed the Province’s health guidelines every step of the way.

By doing that, we saw some significant strides forward in 2020.

More people than ever before are doing business with the City online. From registering for recreation programs and even drop-in sessions, to applying for dog licenses and paying property taxes, online options are a more proven choice now.

In February, a step forward in reconciliation was made when the Snuneymuxw First Nation’s flag was raised once again at City Hall.

The City made various park improvements, including a new destination playground at Maffeo-Sutton Park, a new skatepark at Harewood Centennial Park and a new mountain bike skills course at Beban Park.

The City has moved forward with active transportation improvements, including the Metral Drive Complete Streets upgrade and a major Complete Streets upgrade to the section of Bowen Road between Highway 19A and Labieux Road.

And finally, after years of waiting, construction began and continues on a new hotel downtown at 100 Gordon Street next to the Vancouver Island Conference Centre.

We had great progress with our various task forces. Despite the challenge of COVID restrictions, the Economic Development Task Force, the Health and Housing Task Force, the Mayor’s Task Force on Recovery and Resilience and the Environment Committee all continued to meet, to provide insights and to develop various strategies.

In July, the City of Nanaimo reached a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with BC Housing, which will see the development of 3 affordable rental buildings with about 125 homes for families and individuals. The MOU also includes the development of four purpose-built permanent supportive housing buildings with space for about 190 people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Council also began a journey into the future with the REIMAGINE NANAIMO public engagement campaign, and Phase 1 is now complete. Input and feedback from this process will help to guide new strategies that take the City ten years into the future and beyond. This is the first time that the City has largely used an online engagement platform to gather input. To take a closer look, visit www.getinvolvednanaimo.ca

As we build on these successes and continue to adapt to our new normal, 2021 looks to be a promising year. Hold strong Nanaimo and stay awesome out there. And with your half-full glass, a toast! To a happy and brilliant 2021, where we come out of this pandemic stronger and more resilient than ever.

Planning a New Year’s walk? Here are some ideas!

2020 was quite the year. It started off with meme’s about how all the holidays were going to land on Fridays, which brought excitement about socializing with our friends and families, to being confined behind a mask and no social gatherings.

The New Year for so many symbolizes a time to reflect, prioritize, set goals, spend time with loved ones and much more. Let’s put 2020 aside and ring in 2021 outside, in one of the most beautiful places on earth, Nanaimo!  It's okay if it is a walk on our own or with our immediate family. There is so much to be thankful for and sometimes, getting outside to unplug is all we need to remind ourselves how fortunate we really are.

Here are a few Nanaimo treasures:

1. Colliery Dam Park
What is now a family favorite, was once the main source of water for miners - built in the early 1900’s by the Western Fuel Company. Furry friends are always welcome as the upper dam is a designated off-leash dog area. In the summer months you will find people swimming, picnicking and trout fishing – make sure to bring a rod! Winter brings a special treat for those who love waterfalls. Take a walk through the culvert that leads to the cascading "granny falls". Make sure to bring a pair of boots as winter can bring some muddy terrain. Children love exploring Colliery Dam Park with the abundance of stairs, tunnels, bridges and the many wonders that this park has to offer! 

2. Neck Point Park
Thirty six acres of waterfront, a well-known park to local photographers and a divers dream. These are many things to look for when walking through Neck Point - some find fairy houses. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a pod of Orca Whales! From pebble filled beaches, Arbutus and Garry Oak trees to rocky coves and wildlife, this walk is a true gem in Nanaimo. It can be quite chilly near the ocean so make sure to bring a coat and pack some warm mittens.

3. Westwood Lake Park
The 5.51km loop is a very popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are walking leisurely, pushing a stroller, riding a bike or running on foot, people tend to do it all here. Make note if you're bringing little ones, there are a couple large hills and tree roots to be expected. In the summer months, this man-made lake is one of Nanaimo’s most popular swimming locations nestled near the bottom of Mount Benson. With sandy beaches, docks to dive off and bluffs to look over the lake, this makes for a truly special spot.

Here is a list of more great walking trails to get you started: Linley Valley Cottle Lake Park, Buttertubs Marsh Park, Cable Bay Trail, Jack Point and Biggs Park and Pipers Lagoon Park - just to name a few. You can use the Parks and Trails Brochure or the Parks Search on the website to find park information, directions and inspiration to explore. 

If you do bring your phone and get some photos, make sure to include #mynanaimo on Instagram as we would love to see your adventures! And, most importantly, please remember to follow COVID-19 protocols as set out by the province.

Happy New Year Nanaimo!

Written by City Employee, Adrianna W

This year is going to be different without being able to gather with extended family and friends. The City of Nanaimo Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture is here to help make this season a bit brighter.

Enjoy time outside. Get out and explore Nanaimo’s many parks. Head up to Sugar Loaf Mountain and enjoy the lights. This wonderful tradition of lighting up the park began in 1960 and has been carried on by off-duty Nanaimo firefighters. Or, burn off some energy on our sports fields with our Light up the Night Family Field Fun nights. 

Solve a puzzle. Join in on the City-wide scavenger hunt this winter with the Frosty Bucket challenge. This frosty take on the summer-time Golden Bucket, will have you exploring local parks and streets this holiday season for the Frosty Bucket stickers. This version of the usual bucket search is a little different with participants finding 12 words, unscrambing those words and then creating a phrase to win some great prizes. Daily clues will be posted on Facebook, Instagram (@nanaimoparksandrec) and on the City website. Find out how to play on the Frosty Bucket Contest page on the City website.

Tell a story. Take your kids (or yourself) on a StoryWalk®. “Snowmen at Night” will be up in various City parks throughout the month of December. It will be at Bowen Park December 9 & 10, Oliver Woods Playground December 14-18 (taken down at 11am) and Walley Creek Trail by Harry Wipper Field December 18-28, 2020. The StoryWalk® concept was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and was developed with the help of Rachel Senechal, Kellogg-Hubbard Library.

Get on the ice. We will be hosting special holiday skates from December 21 to January 1. Sponsored by local businesses, these $2 skates are a thank you to the community. You will have to register to attend these sessions. Registration for each session opens 72 hours in advance.

Go for a swim. The Nanaimo Aquatic Centre is open for swim sessions. You will need to book ahead up to 72 hours in advance of the time you want to go.

Attend a Winter Break camp. We are still offering the Frosty Frolic day camp during the kids time off so you can get some last-minute holiday prep done and your kids can enjoy games, crafts and more. Staff are following a COVID safety plan to ensure everyone is healthy and safe. Register for the Frosty Frolic camp today.

Whatever you choose to do and whatever holiday you celebrate, the City of Nanaimo wishes you a safe and merry season.

When we hear, “Have a green holiday season” on the island, the first thing that may come to mind is the lack of snow and abundance of greenery we typically see in December. It can also mean, “being green” in our actions and doing our best to reduce our environmental impact. There are many ways you can lessen your footprint this holiday season.

Give sustainably

Are you stumped on what get for a loved one? Here are some ideas to get you started:

Give the gift of experience. The memories made from experiences can be more meaningful than getting stuff. How about a City of Nanaimo Parks, Recreation and Culture Active Pass? Right now, we are offering 10-visit passes and one-month passes. While many programs are on pause due to COVID-19, you can still use the passes for the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre and arenas. Register for swimming and skating sessions up to 72 hours in advance.

Give the gift of nature. City of Nanaimo homeowners can gift a tree voucher. These $25 vouchers are redeemable for a shade tree worth up to $90. There are a few rules. The tree program is designed to get more trees in the ground within city limits, so the recipient of the voucher must be a property owner within Nanaimo's city limits and plant the tree on their property. The purchaser also needs to be a registered property owner in Nanaimo, and there is a limit of two vouchers per property. The purchase of the gift voucher will come off the purchaser's limit. Find a complete list of rules and purchase a tree voucher on the City website. There is a limited supply that runs out fast, so get yours today!

Gift the gift of giving. You can donate in honour of someone to their favourite cause, charity or local non-profit. 

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Reduce. Reducing your consumption reduces the amount you have to throw out and saves you money. It’s a win-win! You can use this in your decorating by using materials that are reusable or responsibly taken from nature.

Also, choosing alternative forms of transportation such as walking, rolling, cycling or riding transit to get your shopping done or view the many beautiful Christmas light displays, can reduce your carbon footprint. Who knows? Maybe, you’ll find a life-long habit!

Reuse: Skip the wrapping or use reusable wrapping. Do you have decorations from last year? Why not use them again this year?

Recycle. You can divert a large percentage of your household waste from the landfill. It is amazing what can be recycled! Use the What Goes Where tool on the Nanaimo Recycles app (available for download on the App Store and Google Play) or on the City website.

Even little changes can make a big impact on our environment. Our friends at Metro Vancouver have plenty of other tips to help you enjoy a green holiday season. Check out their Create Memories, Not Garbage site.  

Earlier this year when Covid-19 forced shut downs in March, Parks, Recreation & Culture wanted to offer the community something fun but safe, encouraging families to get outside into Nanaimo’s many City Parks while following the Provincial Health Orders.

StoryWalks® were suggested as a way to achieve a fun and safe activity. These events had been offered in the past but were usually one-day affairs, where storyboards were taken down at the end of the event. Staff thought creatively on how to proceed with a Story Walk event avoiding large gatherings and maintaining physical distancing. They decided to leave the stories up for two weeks at a time before moving to a different location for others to enjoy.  In the summer of 2020, five different stories were featured!So what is a StoryWalk® exactly? StoryWalk® is a book that has been laminated and mounted onto boards, then affixed to post or fences giving people the opportunity to walk through the park, reading the storyboards along the way. The goal of these events is to encourage community outdoor recreation, physical activity and literacy. 

With such success over the summer and thanks to the very temperate winter climate, staff have extended the program into the winter months too! “Snowmen at Night” will be up in various City Parks throughout the entire month of December for families to enjoy. It will be at Bowen Park December 9 & 10, Oliver Woods Playground December 14-18 (taken down at 11am) and Wally Creek Trail by Harry Wipper Field December 18-28, 2020. This holiday season, please stay safe and enjoy “Snowmen at Night” with the young readers in your life. Share your experiences on social media and tag @nanaimoparkandrec and @cityofnanaimo on Instagram. 

Copyright info:

The StoryWalk® concept was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and was developed with the help of Rachel Senechal, Kellogg-Hubbard Library. 

It’s that time of year where Christmas light displays dominate our neighbourhoods providing much-needed colour and twinkle to those long, dark winter nights. Some displays are more iconic in Nanaimo than others, such as the tree made of lights way up in Sugarloaf Mountain Park.

When you see Sugarloaf Mountain Park lit up, it’s thanks to the off-duty Nanaimo professional firefighters of IAFF Local 905, who strung Christmas lights and placed the Maltese cross a top the pole earlier this week. Locals have gotten accustomed to seeing the lights every winter as this tradition has been taking place for over 50 years in Nanaimo. In order for this tradition to continue, it takes a willing group of volunteers and a nearby homeowner who graciously provides the power each year. If you've seen the tree but wondered how this all got started, here is a brief history of the Sugarloaf Mountain Park Tree:

1960 - the Departure Bay Volunteer Fire Department started this tradition using a real tree and lights. Eventually, in the late 60’s a pole was put up.

1985 - the pole needed to be upgraded, so the current pole was installed using a helicopter and new cables and real incandescent bulbs were used.

2003 - full time, off-duty members of IAFF local 905 officially welcomed this tradition as their own.

2016 - a new tree was constructed using LED lights, a new power cable and a Maltese Cross for the top of the tree was constructed.

2020 - the tradition continues!

If you haven't checked out this park before, you can find park information and directions here: Sugarloaf Mountain Park.

This week, the emergency alert TEST takes place Tuesday, Parks, Recreation & Culture call for spring/summer program proposals and please stay safe this Halloween by staying seen & six feet apart. Read on for more!

If you would like to begin receiving this newsletter by email, subscribe here now. Did you know? We have other newsletters you can sign up for! You can find a list of newsletters and subscribe to them on the City website.

We are so happy to welcome you back to our facilities and appreciate your patience as we all adjust to the new procedures and guidelines. The City has a COVID-19 Recovery Plan to provide a path forward as we resume City operations in a safe and economically viable way. The plan outlines four steps that the City will take toward a gradual, safe and measured reopening of municipal facilities and resumption of City services and programs that have been suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Corporate Services - Please check out our  Online Services page to see how we can help you. Safety protocols are in place to help keep both visitors and staff safe when visiting our facilities. City Hall (455 Wallace Street) and the Service and Resource Centre (411 Dunsmuir Street) are open for in-person business, from 9 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday.

Public Works - City staff continue regular garbage, recycling and organics collection. More information on recyclables can be found at  www.nanaimo.ca/goto/recycle.

Parks, Recreation & Culture - Recreation facilities, the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre and arenas are open and following province-wide COVID-19 safety protocols. Outdoor amenities remain open for use as well, however please continue to practice physical distancing, hand washing and please stay home if not feeling 100% well. Just a reminder that registration is open for fall programs. You can also register for drop-in programs (swimming, skating and pickle ball) as early as 72 hours in advance. Drop-in schedules are available for viewing.

REIMAGINE NANAIMO

The information collected during REIMAGINE NANAIMO will guide the Official Community Plan, the Parks, Recreation & Culture plan, Active Sustainable Transportation Plan, Economic Development Strategy, Climate Action Plan and the Nanaimo Water Supply Strategic Plan. Each topic based questionnaire will take about 10 minutes to complete. Online Surveys and the Creative Community Contest are open until November 30, 2020. Please have your say today! 

AROUND THE CITY

Emergency Alert

The City of Nanaimo will be sending out an emergency alert October 27 at 10:15 am through the Voyent Alert! system. Remember, this is only a test!  Voyent Alert! is the system the City will use to inform residents of local emergencies, such as earthquakes, in the City of Nanaimo. Residents are encouraged to register and download the app to their smartphone. In case of a real emergency, users will receive a call, text or email. If you haven't signed up for an alert yet, go to www.nanaimo.ca/goto/alerts today.

Preparedness Now - TV Documentary - Shake Out BC

Emergency Preparedness

Public Safety Canada publishes a wide variety of products aimed at helping citizens know the risks and get prepared for emergencies. Their publications can be downloaded and printed. Watch the documentary above for a simulation of a hypothetical, but realistic disaster scenario and what people can do to prepare themselves. Be sure to make a Family Emergency Plan . In an emergency if phones don't work or families aren't together, what will you do?  Island residents should have a kit prepared with at least 7 days worth of supplies in the event of an emergency.   Find out how ready you are to survive by visiting  GetSET for 7 days to learn more about personal preparedness. 

Parks, Recreation & Culture Program Proposals 

The City of Nanaimo's Parks, Recreation and Culture Department is inviting community members to showcase their skills as an instructor for the 2021 Spring and Summer season. Program proposals for a variety of areas, including dance, cooking, language, arts and crafts, music, outdoor recreation and more are now being accepted. Recreation staff are specifically calling for program proposals that focus on outdoor programs. Proposals will be accepted until Friday, November 13, 2020

Park Projects

• Happy 100 years local Rotarians! The Centennial Garden is now open at the north east corner of Maffeo Sutton Park.
• The Rotary Bowl Track will be undergoing track repairs along the 400 M track section October 27 to November 13.
• Oliver Woods Community Centre living wall replacement project will be taking place October 28 to November 6.
• Surface upgrades taking place at Maffeo Sutton Park waterfront walkway until the end of October. 
• Contractor installing scaffolding for the next phase of the roofing project at NAC. Please be cautious near the sidewalk, there should be no interruption to facility access. 

 Stay Safe this Halloween

Although we encourage family fun, we are asking you to review the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's steps to take before participating in Halloween activities this year. Ideas like setting up a help yourself station for kids and ensuring you wash your hands before handling treats will help keep everyone safe. If you do decide to trick or treat, please review the Covid-19 guidelines, remember to be seen! Wear something reflective, stay in a group and go over road safety rules before heading out. 

Will Your Commute be Affected?

Check out the City's Current Construction Projects page for up-to-date information on City construction projects. Here are a few projects that may affect your commute:

• Bowen Road, between the Old Island Highway and Labieux Road will be reduced to one lane in both directions from October 18th-28th to install concrete bus slabs. This will cause congestion and delays. Drivers are strongly encouraged to avoid the area, particularly at rush hour. Please drive slowly and respect temporary road markings. 

• Metral Drive, between Turner Road and Godfrey Road, has been reduced to gravel and underground utility work has begun. Traffic on the gravel road will be limited to residents only. Commuters are encouraged to plan additional time to navigate the area or preferably, to avoid the area completely by detouring on the Island Highway. Beginning October 16th, the contractor will be working Monday-Saturday, 7am-7pm. 

COUNCIL & COMMITTEES

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings

• Monday, October 26: Governance and Priorities Committee at 1:00 pm
• Tuesday, October 27: Special Health and Housing Task Force at 3:00 pm

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos. 

Council in Action

Missed what decisions Council made during a Special Council Meeting or a Regular Council Meeting? Don’t worry. We have you covered! Check out our Council Meeting Summary page for quick overviews.

CITY NEWS

Here is a recap of last week's City news:

• New garden in Maffeo Sutton Park commemorates Rotary's community contributions
• City seeking Parks, Recreation and Culture program proposals
• Testing! The City of Nanaimo will be sending a test emergency alert October 27
• Council moves forward to eliminate plastic checkout bags

This week, sign up to receive My Nanaimo This week by email, submit your creative community contest creation before October 30 and take advantage of double the rebates program. Read on for more!

Soon we will be shifting over from posting this weekly newsletter on our blog to sending it straight to your inbox. If you would like to begin receiving this newsletter by email, subscribe here now. Did you know? We have other newsletters you can sign up for! You can find a list of newsletters and subscribe to them on the City website.

We are so happy to welcome you back to our facilities and appreciate your patience as we all adjust to the new procedures and guidelines. The City has a COVID-19 Recovery Plan to provide a path forward as we resume City operations in a safe and economically viable way. The plan outlines four steps that the City will take toward a gradual, safe and measured reopening of municipal facilities and resumption of City services and programs that have been suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Corporate Services - Please check out our Online Services page to see how we can help you. Safety protocols are in place to help keep both visitors and staff safe when visiting our facilities. City Hall (455 Wallace Street) and the Service and Resource Centre (411 Dunsmuir Street) are open for in-person business, from 9 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday.

Public Works - City staff continue regular garbage, recycling and organics collection. More information on recyclables can be found at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/recycle.

Parks, Recreation & Culture - Recreation facilities, pool and arenas are open and following province-wide COVID-19 safety protocols. Outdoor amenities remain open for use as well, however please continue to practice physical distancing, hand washing and please stay home if not feeling 100% well. Just a reminder that registration is open for fall programs. You can also register for drop-in programs (swimming, skating and pickle ball) as early as 72 hours in advance. Drop-in schedules are available for viewing.

REIMAGINE NANAIMO

The information collected during REIMAGINE NANAIMO will guide the Official Community Plan, the Parks, Recreation & Culture plan, Active Sustainable Transportation Plan, Economic Development Strategy, Nanaimo Water Supply Strategic Plan and the Climate Action Plan. Each topic based questionnaire will take about 10 minutes to complete. Online Surveys and contest is open until November 30, 2020. Please have your say today! 

You can also express your ideas for Nanaimo's future through photo, drawing, painting, collage, poetry, video & more! Submissions from people of all ages and abilities are welcome and you can choose any media you love. Head outside with your camera or sketchbook or sit with friends, family or students and discuss what Nanaimo's future could look like, then send us the result! Each eligible entry is entered to win a $500 gift card from your choice from a local electronics store, bike shop or grocery store. Submit HERE today! 

AROUND THE CITY

Emergency Alert

The City of Nanaimo will be sending out an emergency alert test on October 27 at 10:15 am through the Voyent Alert! system. Remember, this is only a test!  Voyent Alert! is the system the City will use to inform residents of local emergencies, such as earthquakes, in the City of Nanaimo. Residents are encouraged to register and download the app to their smartphone. In case of a real emergency, users will receive a call, text or email. If you haven't signed up for an alert yet, go to www.nanaimo.ca/goto/alerts today.

Request a Smoke Alarm Installation

Nanaimo Fire Rescue now has an online request form for fire alarm inspection and installations at your home (they will wear PPE when visiting!) Submit a form at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/smokealarms or call 250-753-7311 for assistance. If you already have a smoke alarm in your home, please remember to change the batteries every six months.

Double the Rebates

For homeowners waiting for a great time to switch their oil or other fossil fuel heating systems to a cleaner and more earth-friendly system, the time may now be right. With a new 'Double the Rebates' program in place, the City of Nanaimo is working with the CleanBC Better Homes Program to encourage homeowners to switch their home's primary heating source from fossil fuel (oil, natural gas or propane) heating to an electric air-source heat pump. For qualifying heat pump upgrades, the rebates can be substantial (up to $6000).

In addition to the CleanBC rebates, the City of Nanaimo is offering additional top-ups for qualifying upgrades. These include $350 for electric air-source heat pumps, $350 for heat pump water heaters and an additional $500 for electrical service upgrades (100, 200, and 400 amp service) that are needed to accommodate switching to an air-source heat pump or heat pump water heater. The City also has top-ups for homes that undergo a pre- and post-upgrade EnerGuide home evaluation.

Small Business Week

Did you know 67% of Nanaimo’s businesses are locally owned and operated? They are the foundation of our community and we celebrate them during small business week October 18-24, 2020. They provide well paying, local jobs, new vibrancy and uniqueness throughout our community. During COVID-19, they’ve had to persevere and innovate like never before. We celebrate and appreciate the contributions of these community builders during and encourage residents to shop local, supporting these amazing businesses! 

If you are part of a BC based business, non profit, social enterprise or charity, there is a free consulting program in response to the challenges faced by businesses adjusting to the pandemic environment. To learn more visit www.investnanaimo.com/covid19.

Waste Reduction Week

We are celebrating Waste Reduction Week in Canada which takes place the third week of October every year. The goal is to raise awareness while encouraging new innovative ideas and solutions. Join us as we recognize environmental efforts and achievements during this week-long celebration. Each day on Facebook we'll be posting tips, ideas and links. Start with becoming familiar with the City's Waste Wizard to find a drop-off centre near you!

Will Your Commute be Affected?

Check out the City's Current Construction Projects page for up-to-date information on City construction projects. Here are a few projects that may affect your commute:

• Bowen Road, between the Old Island Highway and Labieux Road will be reduced to one lane in both directions from October 18th- 28th to install concrete bus slabs. This will cause congestion and delays. Drivers are strongly encouraged to avoid the area, particularly at rush hour. Please drive slowly and respect temporary road markings. 

• Metral Drive, between Turner Road and Godfrey Road, has been reduced to gravel and underground utility work has begun. Traffic on the gravel road will be limited to residents only. Commuters are encouraged to plan additional time to navigate the area or preferably, to avoid the area completely by detouring on the Island Highway. Beginning October 16th, the contractor will be working Monday-Saturday, 7am-7pm. 

COUNCIL & COMMITTEES

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings

• Monday, October 19: Regular Council Meeting at 4:30 pm
• Wednesday, October 21: Finance and Audit Committee Meeting at 9:00 am
• Thursday, October 22: Design Advisory Panel Meeting at 5:00 pm
• Thursday, October 22: Special Council Meeting at 7:00 pm

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos. 

Council in Action

•  Pop! Reimagine Nanaimo booths are popping up to engage with you!
• Rebates offer better indoor air quality while reducing GHG emissions from homes

This week (and month) we are sharing messages to assist with emergency preparedness. Register for the Great BC ShakeOut, sign up for Nanaimo's emergency alert program and a reminder that the information collected during REIMAGINE NANAIMO will guide six significant plans for the City. Read on for more!

Soon we will be shifting over from posting this weekly newsletter on our blog to sending it straight to your email inbox. If you would like to begin receiving this newsletter by email, subscribe here now. Did you know? We have other newsletters you can sign up for! You can  find a list of newsletters and subscribe to them on the City website.

The City has a COVID-19 Recovery Plan to provide a path forward as we resume City operations in a safe and economically viable way. The plan outlines four steps that the City will take toward a gradual, safe and measured reopening of municipal facilities and resumption of City services and programs that have been suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Corporate Services - Please check out our  Online Services page to see how we can help you. Safety protocols are in place to help keep both visitors and staff safe when visiting our facilities. City Hall (455 Wallace Street) and the Service and Resource Centre (411 Dunsmuir Street) are once again open for in-person business, from 9 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday.

Public Works - City staff continue regular garbage, recycling and organics collection. More information on recyclables can be found at  www.nanaimo.ca/goto/recycle.

Parks, Recreation & Culture - Recreation facilities, pool and arenas are open and following province-wide COVID-19 safety protocols. Outdoor amenities remain open for use as well, however please continue to practice physical distancing and hand washing. Just a reminder that registration is open for fall programs. You can also register for drop-in programs (swimming, skating, pickle ball) as early as 72 hours in advance. Drop-in schedules are available for viewing:

• Community Recreation Programming - Fall 2020
• Pool Activities - Fall 2020
• Arena Activities - Fall 2020

Construction is scheduled at Diver Lake ParK October 15-17 (weather permitting). Parking lot repairs are being done to reduce winter flooding and ensure more parking stalls are available during winter months. 

REIMAGINE NANAIMO

The information collected during REIMAGINE NANAIMO will guide the Official Community Plan, the Parks, Recreation & Culture plan, Active Sustainable Transportation Plan, Economic Development Strategy, Nanaimo Water Supply Strategic Plan and the Climate Action Plan. Each topic based questionnaire will take about 10 minutes to complete. Surveys are open until October 30, 2020. Have your say today! 

How we Live - ideas for our neighbourhoods today and tomorrow

Did you know? You can participate in this important project by registering at Get Involved Nanaimo. Make sure to subscribe to the REIMAGINE NANAIMO project to stay in the know on new topics, contests and other activities through email updates.

AROUND THE CITY

Emergency Preparedness

Where and when a disaster may hit isn't predictable, but there are steps we can take to be ready. These include preparing an emergency kit and stocking enough food and water to last you and your family for a week, developing an escape plan with a muster point outside of your home and workplace, signing up for the City's Voyent Alert! emergency alert system and knowing how to react in an emergency such as an earthquake (drop, cover and hold on).

The Great BC ShakeOut

There are a few emergency related events this month including the Great BC ShakeOut on October 15, 2020 at 10:15 am. Visit www.shakeoutbc.ca for details. During the pandemic, we encourage businesses and residents to ensure all COVID-19 health and safety protocols are followed as part of the Great BC ShakeOut drill.Emergency Alert

The City of Nanaimo will be sending out an emergency alert test on October 27 at 10:15 am through the Voyent Alert! system. Remember, this is only a test!  Voyent Alert! is the system the City will use to inform residents of local emergencies in the City of Nanaimo. Residents are encouraged to register and download the app to their smartphone. In case of a real emergency, users will receive a call, text or email. If you haven't signed up for an alert yet, go to www.nanaimo.ca/goto/alerts today.

Request a Smoke Alarm Installation

Nanaimo Fire Rescue now has an online request form for fire alarm inspection and installations at your home (they will wear PPE when visiting!) Submit a form at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/smokealarms or call 250-753-7311 for assistance. If you already have a smoke alarm in your home, please remember to change the batteries every six months.

Will Your Commute be Affected?

Check out the City's Current Construction Projects page for up-to-date information on City construction projects. Here are a few projects that may affect your commute:

• Bowen Road, between the Old Island Highway and Labieux Road, has been paved, but please drive slowly and respect temporary road markings. Over the next couple weeks the crews will be completing concrete work, road markings, and landscaping. Most work will be done at night from 7 pm to 7 am, however, commuters are still encouraged to avoid the area until construction is complete. 
• Metral Drive, between Turner Road and Godfrey Road, has been reduced to gravel and underground utility work has begun. Commuters are encouraged to avoid the area completely and to detour on the Island Highway. Traffic on the gravel road will be limited to residents and transit only. Plan additional time to navigate the area.

COUNCIL & COMMITTEES

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings

• Wednesday, October 14: Health and Housing Task Force at 3:00 pm
• Friday, October 16: Special Mayor's Task Force on Recovery and Resilience at 1:00 pm

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos. 

Council in Action

Missed what decisions Council made during a Special Council Meeting or a Regular Council Meeting? Don’t worry. We have you covered! Check out our Council Meeting Summary page for quick overviews.

CITY NEWS

Here is a recap of last week's City news:

• City to review building permit function, due to strong development activity
• City recreation facilities following province-wide COVID-19 safety protocols
• Emergency kits. ShakeOut. Call alerts. It's Emergency Preparedness Month
• Ready...set...drop, cover and hold on

This week, Fire Prevention provides tips on cooking up fire safety in the kitchen, REIMAGINE NANAIMO is nearing the end of its idea gathering phase, so don’t miss out on having your say and Seabold stair replacement is underway. Read on for more!

Soon we will be shifting over from posting this weekly newsletter on our blog to sending it straight to your email inbox. If you would like to begin receiving this newsletter by email, subscribe here now. Did you know? We have other newsletters you can sign up for! You can  find a list of newsletters and subscribe to them on the City website.

The City has a COVID-19 Recovery Plan to provide a path forward for resumption of City operations in a safe and economically viable way. The plan outlines four steps that the City will take toward a gradual, safe and measured reopening of municipal facilities and resumption of City services and programs that have been suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Corporate Services - Please check out our  Online Services page to see how we can help you. Safety protocols are now in place to help keep both visitors and staff safe when visiting our facilities. City Hall (455 Wallace Street) and the Service and Resource Centre (411 Dunsmuir Street) are once again open for in-person business, from 9 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday.

Public Works - City staff continue regular garbage, recycling and organics collection. More information on recyclables can be found at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/recycle.

Parks, Recreation & Culture - Playgrounds, parks, trails, skateboard parks, bike parks, pickle ball courts, tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts, lacrosse boxes, sports fields and dog parks are open with a number of guidelines to follow.  Recreation facilities, pool and arenas have reopened with new procedures in place. Drop-in schedules are available for viewing:

• Community Recreation Programming - Fall 2020
• Pool Activities - Fall 2020
• Arena Activities - Fall 2020

REIMAGINE NANAIMO

The plans we create together will guide the decisions that shape our community over the coming years. Each topic based questionnaire will take about 10 minutes to complete. Surveys are open until October 30, 2020. Have your say today!

How we Live - ideas for our neighbourhoods today and tomorrow

Did you know? You can participate in this important project by registering at Get Involved Nanaimo. Make sure to subscribe to the REIMAGINE NANAIMO project to stay in the know on new topics, contests and other activities through email updates.

AROUND THE CITY

Fire Prevention Week

Nanaimo Fire Rescue now has an online form where you can request a member from the Nanaimo Fire Department come to your home (wearing PPE) and install one. Visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/smokealarms and submit the form or call 250-753-7311 for assistance. If you already have a smoke alarm in your home, please remember to change the batteries every six months.

Will Your Commute be Affected?

Check out the City's Current Construction Projects page for up-to-date information on City construction projects. Here are a few projects that may affect your commute:

• Bowen Road, between the Old Island Highway and Labieux Road, is being prepped for paving. Paving had to be postponed due to the rain and is rescheduled for October 5-9th. During this time, drivers can expect uneven pavement and loose gravel. Most work will be done at night from 7 pm to 7 am; however, commuters are encouraged to avoid the area if possible. During construction hours, additional detours may be in place to accommodate the paving equipment and production. 
  
• Metral Drive, between Turner Road and Godfrey Road, has been reduced to gravel and underground utility work has begun. Commuters are encouraged to avoid the area completely and to detour on the Island Highway. Traffic on the gravel road will be limited to residents only and transit. Plan additional time to navigate the area.

Park Projects

• Stair replacement at Seabold Rotary Park is scheduled to begin September 29 and will be completed in December.
• Part of the walkway in Maffeo Sutton Park will be closed October 5-23 for surface upgrades. 
• Utilities staff are currently out winterizing facilities and parks.

COUNCIL & COMMITTEES

The Union of BC Municipalities Annual General Meeting was held September 19-23. Mayor Leonard Krog provide us with an update on the AGM and what members of Council were able to accomplish.

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings

• Monday, October 5: Governance and Priorities Committee at 1:00 pm
• Monday, October 5: Regular Council Meeting at 4:30 pm
• Wednesday, October 7: Special Economic Development Task Force at 8:00 am
• Wednesday, October 7: Special Environment Committee at 3:00 pm

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos. 

Council in Action

Here is a recap of last week's City news:

• Member of City's Culture Staff receives "Above & Beyond " award
• Business with the City continues online, by phone and now in-person

This week, REIMAGINE NANAIMO wants you to pick your passion, Nanaimo Fire reminds you to change your smoke alarm batteries and GoByBike BC starts today. Read on for more!

Hey, have you heard? We are changing the format of My Nanaimo This Week. Later this fall, we will be shifting over from posting this weekly newsletter on our blog to sending it straight to your email inbox. If you would like to begin receiving this newsletter by email, subscribe here now.

Did you know? We have other newsletters you can sign up for! You can find a list of newsletters and subscribe to them on the City website.

Corporate Services - Please check out our  Online Services page to see how we can help you. 

Just a reminder, the first penalty date for late tax payments has been extended to October 1, 2020. If you are registered for MyCity, you can view your property tax notice online. The final day to pay property taxes without incurring a penalty is September 30, 2020. As of October 1, 2020, any outstanding 2020 property taxes will be assessed a 5% penalty. On November 12, a second late penalty of 5% will be assessed on any property taxes that continue to be outstanding. 

Payments can be made through internet, phone or in-person banking at your financial institution or by using the drop box that is available 24/7 at the Service and Resource Centre (411 Dunsmuir Street). In-person payments can be made by visiting the pop-up tax payment office at the Frank Crane Arena ticket booths at Beban Park (2300 Bowen Road). The pop-up tax office will be open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through October 2, 2020. In-person payment is limited to debit and cheque only. Questions, please contact the Finance Department 250-755-4415 or property.info@nanaimo.ca.

Public Works - City staff continue regular garbage, recycling and organics collection. More information on recyclables can be found at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/recycle.

Parks, Recreation & Culture - Playgrounds, parks, trails, skateboard parks, bike parks, pickle ball courts, tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts, lacrosse boxes, sports fields and dog parks are open with a number of guidelines to follow.  Recreation facilities, pool and arena's have reopened with new procedures in place. Drop-in schedules are available for viewing:

• Community Recreation Programming - Fall 2020
• Pool Activities - Fall 2020
• Arena Activities - Fall 2020

The City has a COVID-19 Recovery Plan to provide a path forward for resumption of City operations in a safe and economically viable way. The plan outlines four steps that the City will take toward a gradual, safe and measured reopening of municipal facilities and resumption of City services and programs that have been suspended during the  COVID-19 pandemic.

REIMAGINE NANAIMO

Pick your passion and fill out one (or all) of the questionnaires! Each will only take 10 minutes to complete and the information gathered will guide the Official Community Plan, the Parks, Recreation & Culture plan, Active Sustainable Transportation Plan, Economic Develop Strategy, Nanaimo Water Supply Strategic Plan and the Climate Action Plan. Have your say today!

How we Live - ideas for our neighbourhoods today and tomorrow

Did you know? You can participate in this important project by registering at Get Involved Nanaimo . Make sure to subscribe to the REIMAGINE NANAIMO project  to stay in the know on new topics, contests and other activities through email updates.

AROUND THE CITY

Will Your Commute be Affected?

Check out the City's Current Construction Projects page for up-to-date information on City construction projects. Here are a few projects that may affect your commute:

• Bowen Road, between the Old Island Highway and Labieux Road, is being prepped for paving. Paving had to be postponed due to the rain and is rescheduled for mid-October. During this time, drivers can expect uneven pavement and loose gravel. Most work will be done at night from 7 pm to 7 am; however, commuters are encouraged to avoid the area if possible. 
• Metral Drive, between Turner Road and Godfrey Road, has been reduced to gravel and underground utility work has begun. Commuters are encouraged to detour and avoid the area completely. Traffic on the gravel road will be limited to local residents only and transit. Plan additional time to navigate the area. 

Park Project Closures

• Brannen Lake boat launch is closed while upgrades and maintenance take place. It is scheduled to re-open Friday.
• Paving in Maffeo Sutton Park is taking place this week, please follow the signage posted in the park. 
• Stair replacement at Seabold Rotary Park is scheduled to begin September 29 and will be completed in December.

Smoke Alarms Save Lives

Did you know? You have less than three minutes to escape a house fire. This year, going door to door to check smoke alarms is not an option. However, your safety is important to us so if you do not have a working smoke alarm you can request a member from the Nanaimo Fire Department come to your home (wearing PPE) and install one. Visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/smokealarms and submit the form or call 250-753-7311 for assistance. If you already have a smoke alarm in your home, please remember to change the batteries every six months.

Pedal to Places for GoByBike 

What is the Pedal to Places Challenge? It’s a self-guided, touch-free scavenger hunt that gets people out on their bikes and exploring awesome places in our city during GoByBike Sept 28 -Oct 4, 2020. Visit https://gobybikebc.ca/nanaimo to register, clock your km's and enter to a local Pedal to Places prize and the GoByBike BC grand prize Exodus Travels Trip for 2 Cycling the Atlantic Coast of Portugal. 

Be a Part of Orange Shirt Day

All day Wednesday, September 30th wear orange to show your commitment to learning about residential schools. It is an opportunity for First Nations, local governments, schools and communities to come together in spirit of reconciliation and hope for generations of children to come. To learn more about the history of orange shirt day visit https://www.orangeshirtday.org/about-us.html. 

COUNCIL & COMMITTEES

Board of Variance

The City of Nanaimo is currently recruiting one member for the Board of Variance. The Board consists of five members appointed by City Council and is a three (3) year term. The BOV can grant variances to: relax zoning regulations, servicing requirements, and tree protection requirements; extend non-conforming uses; and, reconstruct a non-conforming building. If interested, residents need to apply before 4:30 pm, October 2, 2020. For more information about the Board of Variance including mandate, eligibility requirements, time commitments and how to apply please visit the City’s website at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/committees.

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings

• Monday, September 28: Regular Council Meeting at 4:30 pm
• Wednesday, September 30: Advisory Committee on Accessibility and Inclusiveness at 3 pm
• Thursday, October 1: Health and Housing Task Force at 3 pm

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos. 

Council in Action
Missed what decisions Council made during a Special Council Meeting or a Regular Council Meeting? Don’t worry. We have you covered! Check out our Council Meeting Summary page for quick overviews. 

CITY NEWS

Here is a recap of last week's City news:

• The property tax penalty date is fast approaching
• Celebrate World Rivers Day in Nanaimo virtually
• Coast Salish design & Hul'q'umi'num language create connection at Beban Pool

This week, Reimagine Nanaimo reminds residents to participate in the topic questionnaires, paving projects at Altrusa Playground & Parkway Trail are underway and Parks, Recreation & Culture is looking for feedback from summer camp participants. Read on for more!

Psst! We are changing the format of My Nanaimo This Week. Later this fall, we will be shifting over from posting this weekly newsletter on our blog to sending it straight to your email inbox! If you would like to begin receiving this newsletter by email, subscribe here. Not interested in getting an email from us? No problem! My Nanaimo This Week will still be posted online just in a new location at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/my-nanaimo-this-week and to our social media channels (@cityofnanaimo on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram). 

Did you know? We have other newsletters you can sign up for! You can find a list of newsletters and subscribe to them on the City website.

CITY SERVICE UPDATE

Corporate Services - We look forward to opening the doors to our Service and Resource Centre soon. In the meantime, please check out our Online Services page to see how we can help you. 

Just a reminder, the penalty date for late tax payments has been extended to October 1, 2020. If you are registered for MyCity, you can view your property tax notice online. Property taxes are due regardless of whether you received a property tax notice. Taxes unpaid by the due date (the first working day in July) are subject to a 5% penalty, and an additional 5% is levied on the second Thursday in August. Any remaining balance outstanding as of January 1 will accrue interest daily. If you did not receive your Property Tax Notice, please contact the Finance Department 250-755-4415 or property.info@nanaimo.ca.

Public Works - City staff continue regular garbage, recycling and organics collection. More information on recyclables can be found at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/recycle.

Parks, Recreation & Culture - Playgrounds, parks, trails, skateboard parks, bike parks, pickle ball courts, tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts, lacrosse boxes, sports fields and dog parks are open with a number of guidelines to follow. 

Community Recreation Programming - Fall 2020

Beban Social Centre is available for facility rentals.  Bowen Park Complex is now open for recreation programs and community rentals. Front desk hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am-4:30 pm (closed 12-1 pm)

Oliver Woods Community Centre is open for fall recreation programs and community rentals. Pre-registered drop-in programs will begin on Sunday, September 27. Front desk hours: Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 am-4:30 pm (closed 12-1 pm) and Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 am-2:30 pm. 

Pool Activities - Fall 2020

The Nanaimo Aquatic Centre is now open! Cleanliness and patron safety is top priority. Pre-registration is required to reserve your time slot. To ensure adequate time for cleaning between sessions pool users will need to remain in their reserved space until the end of their session. If swimmers need to leave early, they can leave directly from the deck via the deep-end doors, without accessing the change rooms. Front desk hours: Monday to Friday, 6:30 am-7 pm (closed 2:30-3:30 pm) and Saturday and Sunday, 8 am-8 pm (closed 12-12:30 pm). Beban Pool remains closed.

Arena Activities - Fall 2020

Nanaimo Ice Centre is open for pre-registered drop in. The front desk office is closed until further notice. Frank Crane Arena remains closed, however one sheet of ice will open if demand dictates. One sheet of ice at Cliff McNabb Arena is open for rentals and fall programs. 

We have created a COVID-19 Recovery Plan to provide a path forward for resumption of City operations in a safe and economically viable way. The plan outlines four steps that the City will take toward a gradual, safe and measured reopening of municipal facilities and resumption of City services and programs that have been suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic.

REIMAGINE NANAIMO

These topic questionnaires give a more in-depth thought and insight into key topics for Nanaimo's future. Residents are encourage you to complete any or all of these. Each questionnaire will take approximately 10 minutes to complete. 

How we Live - ideas for our neighbourhoods today and tomorrow

Enter the Creative Community contest by posting your response on the Get Involved - REIMAGINE NANAIMO page or emailing it to reimagine@nanaimo.ca. At the end of the contest all entries will be entered into a prize draw to win a $500 gift card to your choice of ONE of: a local electronics store OR a local bike shop OR a local grocery store. Visit the Get Involved - REIMAGINE NANAIMO page for details.

Did you know? You can participate in this important project by registering at Get Involved Nanaimo. Make sure to subscribe to the REIMAGINE NANAIMO project to stay in the know on new topics, contests and other activities through email updates.

AROUND THE CITY

Project Closures

• Re-paving is scheduled this week at Altrusa Playground at Beban Park. During construction the playground will close, so please stay tuned for more specific dates and times to be announced on Facebook.
• The Parkway Trail near Serauxmen Stadium is also being re-paved. Please watch for flaggers to help navigate the area and if possible select an alternate route this week.
• Brannen Lake boat launch is closed until the end of this month while upgrades and maintenance is taking place.

Summer Camp Survey

Did your child attend a Parks, Recreation and Culture summer camp this year? If so, they want to hear from you! Surveys are being collected so proper planning, any improvements and changes can be implemented for next summer. 

Will Your Commute be Affected?

Check out the City's Current Construction Projects page for up-to-date information on City construction projects. Here are a few projects that may affect your commute:

• From Sept 20-Oct 1 Bowen Road, between the Old Island Highway and Labieux Road, will be prepped for paving. During this time, drivers can expect uneven pavement and gravel. Most work will be done at night from 7 pm to 7 am however commuters are encouraged to avoid the area if possible. 
  
• The Complete Street project on Metral Drive is underway. This week the contractor will be removing the asphalt surface between Turner Road and Godfrey Road. Drivers can expect single lane alternating traffic, gravel road conditions and delays.   Commuters are encouraged to avoid the area and local traffic is advised to plan additional time to get around the area.  
• The RDN is doing some road work on Hammond Bay Road between McGuffie Road and Shores Drive. Drivers can expect delays and traffic pattern changes. 

COUNCIL & COMMITTEES

Board of Variance

The City of Nanaimo is currently recruiting one member for the Board of Variance. The Board consists of five members appointed by City Council and is a three (3) year term. The BOV can grant variances to: relax zoning regulations, servicing requirements, and tree protection requirements; extend non-conforming uses; and, reconstruct a non-conforming building. If interested, residents need to apply before 4:30 pm, October 2, 2020. For more information about the Board of Variance including mandate, eligibility requirements, time commitments and how to apply please visit the City’s website at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/committees.

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings

• Monday, September 24: Design Advisory Panel Meeting at 5 pm
• Friday, September 25: Mayor's Task Force on Recovery and Resilience Meeting at 9 am
• Friday, September 25: Special Economic Development Task Force at 1pm

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos. 

Council in Action
Missed what decisions Council made during a Special Council Meeting or a Regular Council Meeting? Don’t worry. We have you covered! Check out our Council Meeting Summary page for quick overviews. 

CITY NEWS

Here is a recap of last week's City news:

• City of Nanaimo call for applications - Board of Variance
• City adopts Complete Streets standards
• Pedal to places during GoByBike BC

This week, REIMAGINE NANAIMO explores how we live, applications are open for Culture and Heritage grants and work on the Metral Drive Complete Street project has begun. Read on for more!

Psst! We are changing the format of My Nanaimo This Week. Later this fall, we will be shifting over from posting this weekly newsletter on our blog to sending it straight to your email inbox! If you would like to begin receiving this newsletter by email, subscribe here. Not interested in getting an email from us? No problem! My Nanaimo This Week will still be posted online just in a new location at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/my-nanaimo-this-week and to our social media channels (@cityofnanaimo on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram). 

Did you know? We have other newsletters you can sign up for! You can find a list of newsletters and subscribe to them on the City website.

City Service Updates

We have created a COVID-19 Recovery Plan to provide a path forward for resumption of City operations in a safe and economically viable way. The plan outlines four steps that the City will take toward a gradual, safe and measured reopening of municipal facilities and resumption of City services and programs that have been suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Corporate Services - We look forward to opening the doors to our Service and Resource Centre, and other facilities, soon (scroll down to learn more about our recreation centre and arena re-openings!). In the meantime, please check out our Online Services page to see how we can help you. 

Public Works - City staff continue regular garbage, recycling and organics collection. More information on recyclables can be found at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/recycle.

Parks, Recreation & Culture Open

• Outdoors:
  • Playgrounds, parks, trails, skateboard parks, bike parks, pickle ball courts, tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts, lacrosse boxes, sports fields and dog parks are open with a number of guidelines to follow.

• Community Recreation:
  • Beban Social Centre is available for facility rentals. One sheet of ice at Cliff McNabb Arena is open for rentals and fall programs. 
  • Bowen Park Complex opens for recreation programs and community rentals on Thursday, September 10 and pre-registered drop-in programs (pottery, woodworking) starting on Monday, September 14. Front desk hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am-4:30 pm (closed 12-1 pm)
  • Oliver Woods Community Centre is open for fall recreation programs and community rentals. Pre-registered drop-in programs will begin on Sunday, September 27. Front desk hours: Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 am-4:30 pm (closed 12-1 pm) and Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 am-2:30 pm. 
  • Community Recreation Programming - Fall 2020

• Pools:
  • The Nanaimo Aquatic Centre is now open! Cleanliness and patron safety is top priority. Pre-registration is required to reserve your time slot. To ensure adequate time for cleaning between sessions pool users will need to remain in their reserved space until the end of their session. If swimmers need to leave early, they can leave directly from the deck via the deep-end doors, without accessing the change rooms. Front desk hours: Monday to Friday, 6:30 am-7 pm (closed 2:30-3:30 pm) and Saturday and Sunday, 8 am-8 pm (closed 12-12:30 pm)
  • Pool Activities - Fall 2020

• Arenas:
  • Nanaimo Ice Centre opens for pre-registered drop in on Sunday, September 20. Front desk office is closed until further notice.
  • Arena Activities - Fall 2020

Parks, Recreation & Culture Closed - Beban Pool remains closed. Frank Crane Arena remains closed, however one sheet of ice will open if demand dictates. 

REIMAGINE NANAIMO

This week, REIMAGINE NANAIMO explores the topic of how we can build more active, safer and livable neighbourhoods. 

Enter the Creative Community contest by posting your response on the Get Involved - REIMAGINE NANAIMO page or emailing it to reimagine@nanaimo.ca. At the end of the contest all entries will be entered into a prize draw to win a $500 gift card to your choice of ONE of: a local electronics store OR a local bike shop OR a local grocery store. Visit the Get Involved - REIMAGINE NANAIMO page for details.

Did you know? You can participate in this important project by registering at Get Involved Nanaimo. Make sure to subscribe to the REIMAGINE NANAIMO project to stay in the know on new topics, contests and other activities through email updates.

Around the City

Applications Open for Culture and Heritage Grants
We are now accepting applications for funding assistance to support the 2021 activities of non-profit community organizations. Funds are available in three streams:

• Culture & Heritage Operating Grant
• Culture & Heritage Project Grant
• Downtown Event Revitalization Grant

Guidelines, criteria and application forms are available online at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/grants or by contacting Culture & Events directly at 250-755-4483 or cultureandevents@nanaimo.ca.

Check out the City's Current Construction Projects page for up-to-date information on City construction projects. Here are a few projects that may affect your commute:

• Expect delays and traffic pattern changes on Bowen Road around the Kenworth Road and Labieux Road intersection while crews work on utility and corridor upgrades. Most work will be done at night from 7 pm to 7 am to accommodate daytime commutes. 
• The Complete Street project on Metral Drive is underway. Drivers can expect single lane alternating traffic at times and traffic pattern changes while work continues. Work will be done between 7 am and 5 pm.
• The RDN is doing some road work on Hammond Bay Road between McGuffie Road and Shores Drive. Drivers can expect delays and traffic pattern changes. 

Council and Committees 

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings
Council meets on Monday night, the Finance and Audit Committee and Health Housing Task Force have meetings on Wednesday and a Public Hearing and Board of Variance meeting on Thursday cap off this week's meetings. 

• Monday, September 14: Regular Council meeting at 7 pm
• Wednesday, September 16: Finance and Audit Committee meeting at 9 am
• Wednesday, September 16: Health and Housing Task Force meeting at 3 pm
• Thursday, September 17: Board of Variance meeting at 5:30 pm
• Thursday, September 17: Public Hearing at 7 pm

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos. 

Council in Action
Missed what decisions Council made during a Special Council Meeting or a Regular Council Meeting? Don’t worry. We have you covered! Check out our Council Meeting Summary page for quick overviews. 

City News

Here is a recap of last week's City news:

• Hotter, drier summers. Warmer, wetter winters. Nanaimo adapts to climate change
• City invites applications for 2021 Culture Grants

This week, recreation facilities reopen, another school year begins and REIMAGINE NANAIMO explores how we move. Read on for more!

City Service Updates

We have created a COVID-19 Recovery Plan to provide a path forward for resumption of City operations in a safe and economically viable way. The plan outlines four steps that the City will take toward a gradual, safe and measured reopening of municipal facilities and resumption of City services and programs that have been suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Corporate Services - We look forward to opening the doors to our Service and Resource Centre, and other facilities, soon (scroll down to learn more about our recreation centre and arena re-openings!). In the meantime, please check out our Online Services page to see how we can help you. 

Public Works - City staff continue regular garbage, recycling and organics collection. More information on recyclables can be found at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/recycle.

Parks, Recreation & Culture Open - Playgrounds, parks, trails, skateboard parks, bike parks, pickle ball courts, tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball courts, lacrosse boxes, sports fields and dog parks are open with a number of guidelines to follow. Beban Social Centre is available for facility rentals. One sheet of ice at Cliff McNabb Arena is open for rentals and summer programs. 

Parks, Recreation & Culture Almost Open - Our recreation centres are getting ready to welcome you back this week!

• Oliver Woods Community Centre opens for fall recreation programs and community rentals on Wednesday, September 9. Pre-registered drop-in programs will begin on Sunday, September 27. Front desk hours: Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 am-4:30 pm (closed 12-1 pm) and Saturday and Sunday, 9:30 am-2:30 pm.
• Nanaimo Aquatic Centre opens on Thursday, September 10 for pre-registered drop in programs. Front desk hours: Monday to Friday, 6:30 am-7 pm (closed 2:30-3:30 pm) and Saturday and Sunday, 8 am-8 pm (closed 12-12:30 pm)
• Nanaimo Ice Centre opens for pre-registered drop in on Sunday, September 20. Front desk office is closed until further notice.
• Bowen Park Complex opens for recreation programs and community rentals on Thursday, September 10 and pre-registered drop-in programs (pottery, woodworking) starting on Monday, September 14. Front desk hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 am-4:30 pm (closed 12-1 pm)

Parks, Recreation & Culture Closed - Beban Pool remains closed. Frank Crane Arena remains closed, however one sheet of ice will open if demand dictates. 

REIMAGINE NANAIMO

This week, REIMAGINE NANAIMO explores the topic of active and sustainable transportation. 

Enter the Creative Community contest by posting your response on the Get Involved - REIMAGINE NANAIMO page or emailing it to reimagine@nanaimo.ca. At the end of the contest all entries will be entered into a prize draw to win a $500 gift card to your choice of ONE of: a local electronics store OR a local bike shop OR a local grocery store. Visit the Get Involved - REIMAGINE NANAIMO page for details.

Did you know? You can participate in this important project by registering at Get Involved Nanaimo. Make sure to subscribe to the REIMAGINE NANAIMO project to stay in the know on new topics, contests and other activities through email updates.

Around the City

Be a Textbook Driver this School Year!
This week, kids start heading back to school. As another school year begins, remember to slow down, respect the speed limits and be prepared to stop for buses and children. Parents are also encouraged to speak to their children about road safety. Beginning Thursday, September 10, all school zone speed limits will be in effect. This means every school day, unless otherwise posted, a 30 km/h speed limit is in effect in school zones from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Drivers should be aware that the school year means more children out and about in the community. Staying alert and slowing down, especially around schools, is the best way to make sure children get where they’re going safely. 

When driving children to school, parents are encouraged to park and walk the last few blocks. This gives kids a chance to get some fresh air and physical activity before the school day begins. And, more families walking means fewer cars and safer roads in school zones. 

For more information and tips to keep roads safe for everyone, please visit ICBC's website at www.icbc.com/road-safety.

Check out the City's Current Construction Projects page for up-to-date information on City construction projects. Here are a few projects that may affect your commute:

• Expect delays and traffic pattern changes on Bowen Road around the Kenworth Road and Labieux Road intersection while crews work on utility and corridor upgrades. Most work will be done at night from 7 pm to 7 am to accommodate daytime commutes. 

Council and Committees 

Upcoming Council and Committee Meetings
The Design Advisory Panel and the Mayor's Task Force on Recovery and Resiliency will meet on Thursday and Friday, respectfully.

• Thursday, September 10: Design Advisory Panel meeting at 5 pm
• Friday, September 11: Special Mayor's Task Force on Recovery and Resiliency at 9 am

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos. 

Council in Action
Missed what decisions Council made during a Special Council Meeting or a Regular Council Meeting? Don’t worry. We have you covered! Check out our Council Meeting Summary page for quick overviews. 

City News

Here is a recap of last week's City news:

• City of Nanaimo preparing facilities for return to indoor recreation
• Access road to Harewood Centennial Park named Jim Borserio Way
• City reminds pet owners of their responsibilities
• New mountain bike skills park opens in Nanaimo
• Parks, Recreation and Culture restarting drop-in sessions