In this special edition of My Nanaimo This Week, we provide you with information on the City's role in responding to COVID-19.

About COVID-19

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is a health matter which is overseen by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia. For this reason, the City of Nanaimo gets its direction and information from the Government of Canada, provincial government, BC Medical Health Officer and the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC).

Information and resources from the federal government can be found on their COVID-19 information page and information and resources from the province can be found on their COVID-19 Provincial Support and Information page.

Find more information about the City's response on the COVID-19 information page.

Stop the spread!

1. Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds.
2. Avoid touching your eye, nose and mouth.
3. Cover your cough using the bend of your elbow or a tissue.
4. Stay at home. If you do have to go out, only go out if you are well and are practicing physical distancing by maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet from others. Watch this video to see what physical distancing means.
5. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

A message from the Mayor

Open for business

Our doors may be closed, but we are open for business. With the exception of Parks, Recreation and Culture programming, drop-in sports, playgrounds and sport courts, City services and operations continue to run. The services which you may have come to City Hall or the Service and Resource Centre for can be accessed online or by phone. Check out our Online Services page to find what you need or give us a call:

• General Inquiries - 250-754-4251
• Parks, Recreation and Culture - 250-756-5200
• Public Works - 250-758-5222

Practice safe recycling/waste disposal

These are challenging times, and we recognize your household’s curbside waste volumes may be affected. All households are encouraged to follow good waste management practices: properly sorting recyclables and organics, rinsing recyclable containers so they are free of food residue and saving space by flattening cardboard boxes and other bulky recyclables.

Please help keep sanitation workers safe by following Safe Waste procedures and securely bagging and throwing the following items in the garbage:

• Cleaning cloths and disposable wipes - even those listed as flushable/compostable
• Used Kleenex
• Personal hygiene products
• Face masks & gloves
• Any other similar items

Visit the City’s Garbage/Recycling page for the latest information and FAQs on garbage and recycling. Use the tools available on the Nanaimo Recycles app available for free download from the App Store and Google Play as well on the Garbage and Recycling Calendar page.

Practice health and well-being virtually

Our recreation coordinators understand how important it is to stay active and connected especially during times of social isolation. To bring some fun to the community, coordinators have launched some fun campaigns through the @nanaimoparksandrec Instagram feed including a Wellness Bingo, #isolationrecreation ideas, a scavenger hunt and a #harbourcityphotochallenge. Check it out to discover some fun ways to stay active while social distancing.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings

All committee meetings have been cancelled until further notice.

A Special Council meeting will take place on Wednesday, April 1. You can watch it virtually on the City website.

The next Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 6.

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings.

Here's a recap of City news from March 15 to 29:

• Port Theatre Expansion Not Selected for Funding
• March 23, 2020 COVID-19 Update from Parks, Recreation and Culture
• Statement from the City of Nanaimo Regarding Playgrounds
• March 21, 2020 COVID-19 Update from Parks, Recreation and Culture
• March 20, 2020 COVID-19 Update from Nanaimo Fire Rescue
• March 19, 2020 Update from Parks, Recreation and Culture (COVID-19)
• March 18, 2020 COVID-19 update - City open for business, closed to public access
• March 17 COVID-19 Update – Task Force and Committee Meetings Postponed
• March 16, 2020 COVID-19 update - Recreation facilities to close

This week we spring forward, get involved and are out and about for March. Read on!

Spring forward!
It certainly starts to feel more like spring when it stays brighter that much longer in the evenings. This week, we get to add an extra hour to our evenings because Daylight Savings Time began on Sunday. Did you remember to set your clocks forward one hour this weekend? If not, you may be late for an appointment!

Get involved Nanaimo!
The City's new engagement site, Get Involved Nanaimo is live and ready for your participation! We have set up a few projects to get you acquainted with the site and its features including a survey asking you what you are most interested in engaging with us about, an ideas forum where you can brainstorm with us and other community members and a section where you can share your favourite things about Nanaimo. Watch the video below and then check out www.getinvolvednanaimo.ca.

It's simple to start getting involved! Watch the video below to learn how to register and use the many features.

Out and About!
We're out and about with Nanaimo Parks, Recreation and Culture for March! Watch the video below to see what they have in store for the month. View other City of Nanaimo videos on our YouTube Channel.

Upcoming community events:

• Thursday, March 12: Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week features Trevor Price.
• Saturday, March 14: Water to Earth Month events begin with a Streamkeepers Course hosted by Nanaimo Area Land Trust. Find more information on events and registration on Team WaterSmart's page.
• Sunday, March 15: Lions Free Skate, 12 to 1:30 pm at Frank Crane Arena

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

Call for applicants!

The City of Nanaimo is calling for applications from residents interested in volunteering to participate in the Council Remuneration Task Force (CRTF). The task force will provide an impartial and objective review of the current remuneration paid to Mayor and Council and provide recommendations for a remuneration structure to be implemented by the fall of 2020.

If you are interested and have experience or credentials in one or more of the following areas, apply by 4:30 pm on Thursday, March 12.

• Management experience of a large or complex organization
• Business and/or legal experience
• Local government or other public sector experience
• Accounting or finance experience
• Human Resources and benefits experience

Applications can be emailed to Legislative.Servicesoffice@nanaimo.ca or mailed/hand delivered to Legislative Services, 455 Wallace Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5J6.

Visit the following links for more information and to download the application form:
Committee Application Form
Boards and Committees

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings
The week opens up with a Governance and Priorities meeting on Monday and the Environment Committee will meet on Wednesday.

• Monday, March 9: Governance and Priorities Committee meeting at 1 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street
• Wednesday, March 11: Environment Committee meeting at 5 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings.

Here's a recap of City news from March 2 to 6:

• Get Involved Nanaimo!
• Nanaimo, home of the 13th West Coast Baseball League team

This week registration for spring and summer recreation programs opens, get ready for a new way to engage and let's celebrate a record year of growth. Read on!

Get active this spring and summer!
Have you picked up your copy of the Spring and Summer Activity Guide? It is now available in City rec centres, libraries, local grocery stores and local malls. You can even view and download a copy on the City website. 

Nanaimo Parks, Recreation and Culture have a variety of programs to keep you active including dance, fitness, gardening, cooking and music classes. With warmer weather and longer days coming, it's also time to start planning for summer camps and other activities to stay busy. Registration opens Wednesday, March 4 and classes can fill up fast! You can register online or by calling 250-756-5200. 

Get involved Nanaimo!
Beginning Tuesday, March 3, you will have a new way to engage with us. Our online engagement site, Get Involved Nanaimo, will be live and ready for your participation! Get Involved Nanaimo will feature a number of tools for you to provide feedback, connect with other Nanaimo residents and connect with us on topics of importance to you. So, on Tuesday, March 3, visit www.getinvolvednanaimo.ca to register and get involved!

A record year for growth
Have you been noticing a lot of large construction projects underway around town? Nanaimo has been experiencing a lot of growth lately - so much that our growth is outpacing Vancouver Island, BC and even Canada’s averages 2019 was a record year for Nanaimo, and all of that construction - from new condo developments to highway and lighting improvements - all adds up to half a billion dollars in new investment.

Want to know more? Follow these links:

• Celebrating a record year for development and capital projects
• Nanaimo's growth outpaces Vancouver Island, BC and even Canada's averages 

Upcoming community events:

• Tuesday, March 3: Glow in the Dark Skate, 6:30 to 8 pm in Frank Crane Arena
• Wednesday, March 4: Spring and summer recreation program registration opens! Register on the City website or call 250-756-5200
• Thursday, March 5: Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week features Rick Haug.
• Sunday, March 8: Lions Free Skate, 12 to 1:30 pm at Frank Crane Arena

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings 
It's a light week with a Council meeting on Monday and the monthly Public Hearing on Thursday. The Health and Housing Task Force meeting has been cancelled.

• Monday, March 2: Council meeting at 7 pm in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre Shaw Auditorium
• Thursday, March 5: Public Hearing at 7 pm in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre Shaw Auditorium

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings. 

Here's a recap of City news from February 24-28:

• Applications open for membership to Council Remuneration Task Force
• Annual water main flushing program begins March 2
• Grow with us in 2020
• Nanaimo's growth outpaces Vancouver Island, BC and even Canada's averages
• Celebrating a record year for development and capital projects in 2019

This week we rhyme about being kind to all kinds, get ready for spring activities and celebrate raising a flag for reconciliation. Read on!

Be Kind to All Kinds
The City of Nanaimo’s Youth Poet Laureate, Valina Zanetti, and the Nanaimo BC SPCA invite all local youth poets between the ages of 11 and 18 to submit their original poems to raise awareness on three BC SPCA topics:

• BC SPCA Rescue Stories (Refer to real BC SPCA rescue stories at www.spca.bc.ca/adoption_stories)
• Your Own Pet Rescue Stories
• Habitat Loss/Endangered Animals

Twenty poems will be chosen to create a poetry collection book. Of the twenty chosen poems, poets of the Top 3 poems will receive awards and cash prizes presented at a City Council meeting, and attend an unveiling event at the Nanaimo BC SPCA on April 23 to read their poems. The final poetry collection book will be provided to the Nanaimo BC SPCA to raise money for the animals in their care. The deadline for poem submission is March 30, 2020.

For more information visit the BC SPCA Poetry Contest page on the City website.

Be kind to each other
Wednesday, February 26 is Pink Shirt Day. This annual event raises awareness of the effects of bullying with a goal to end bullying. City of Nanaimo staff will be wearing pink on Wednesday in support of anti-bullying program. Join us and wear pink to work, school or wherever you are on Wednesday. 

Get ready for spring!
Nanaimo Parks, Recreation and Culture wants you to be ready for spring with the arrival of the Spring and Summer Activity Guide! Available from Friday, February 28, the guide has a number of programs and classes to keep you active all spring and summer. 

Registration for spring and summer programs opens Wednesday, March 4. Register online or by calling 250-756-5200.

Flag raising at City Hall
Last week, Councils from the City of Nanaimo and Snuneymuxw First Nation came together to take another step toward reconciliation at a flag raising ceremony. Snuneymuxw returned their flag to City Hall to fly along with the City's. This momentous occasion is a way forward to creating a welcoming place for all.  

Upcoming community events:

• Thursday, February 27: Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week features Rick Haug.
• Sunday, March 1: Lions Free Skate, 12 to 1:30 pm at Frank Crane Arena

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings 

Council's in session on Monday and the Advisory Committee on Accessibility and Inclusiveness has their inaugural meeting on Wednesday.   

• Monday, February 24: Governance and Priorities Committee meeting at 1 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street 
• Monday, February 24: Council meeting at 7 pm in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre Shaw Auditorium
• Wednesday, February 26: Special Advisory Committee on Accessibility and Inclusiveness at 5 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street  

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings. 

Here's a recap of City news from February 18-22:

• Calling all youth poets! Help support animals in need by writing a poem
• Raising a flag for reconciliation

This week we enter a new season, get ready to celebrate culture and heritage and have a full week of committee meetings. Read on!

It's that time of year

Pothole season! Have you come across a pothole on your commute? You can report it to the City or, if it's on a Provincial highway, to the Province's road maintenance contractor, Mainroad.

How do you know if you are on a road maintained by the City or the Province? If you are travelling on the following routes and come across a pothole, report it to Mainroad at 1-877-215-6006:

• Old Island Highway (Island Highway 19A)
• Nanaimo Parkway (Highway 19)
• Brechin Road
• Stewart Road
• Highway 1

For all other roads within City of Nanaimo limits, report them on the City website, on the Nanaimo Recycles app (use the "Need Help/Report a Problem" feature) or call public works at 250-758-5222.

Tickets! Get your FREE tickets!
To the 2020 Culture and Heritage Awards! On Thursday, April 16, 2020, celebrate the best of Nanaimo's culture and heritage. The awards have been important for community building and partnerships in Nanaimo since 1998. They bring awareness to the variety of cultural activity in our community, and build pride in the culture and heritage accomplishments of individuals and organizations. This year the following community members will be honoured:

• Trish & Geoff Horrocks, Honour in Culture
• Patrick Aleck, Emerging Cultural Leader
• Gary & Adam Manson, Honour in Heritage
• Devon Joiner, Excellence in Culture

The ceremony will be held in the Port Theatre at 7:00 pm (doors open at 6:30 pm). Get your tickets on the Port Theatre's website. Did we mention the tickets for this fun community event are free?

Upcoming community events:

• Thursday, February 20: Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week features Bryden Street Jazz Band.
• Friday, February 21: Free Everyone Welcome Swim, 7-9 pm at the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, courtesy of Coast Capital Savings
• Saturday, February 22: Starlight Skate, 7-9 pm at the Nanaimo Ice Centre
• Sunday, February 23: Lions Free Skate, 12 to 1:30 pm at Frank Crane Arena

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings 
Meetings pick up this week starting with a Special Economic Development Task Force meeting on Tuesday, Finance and Audit Committee meeting and Health and Housing Task Force meetings on Wednesday and the Board of Variance on Thursday.  

• Tuesday, February 18: Special Economic Development Task Force meeting at 1 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street
• Wednesday, February 19: Finance and Audit Committee meeting at 9 am in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street
• Wednesday, February 19: Health and Housing Task Force meeting at 3 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street
• Thursday, February 20: Board of Variance meeting at 5:30 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings. 

Here's a recap of City news from February 10-14:

• City to celebrate Heritage Week with Annual Heritage Summit on February 20
• Reserve your FREE tickets for the 2020 Culture & Heritage Awards Ceremony!

This week love is in the air, families can enjoy their special day and Maffeo Sutton Park playground will get a makeover. Read on!

Love is in the air
This week, thoughts of romance are top of mind. Have you made plans with that special someone yet? If not, consider a stroll through one of Nanaimo's parks or trails, a free leisurely skate or learn a new skill together.

On the evening of Friday, February 14, check out the Bastion where it will be lit up in red for Valentine's Day. If your organization or cause would like to have the Bastion lit up in a special colour to promote awareness, fill out the request form found on the City website. Watch the video below to learn more about lighting up the Bastion.

A special day for families 
Monday, February 17 is Family Day in BC. How are you and your family planning to spend the day? You could all go for a swim at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre open from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Family Day. Or, take the kids for a skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre where they will be hosting a variety of skate sessions from 12 to 3:45 p.m. Check out the drop-in schedules on the City website for more information.

City offices and recreation centres (other than Nanaimo Aquatic Centre and Ice Centre) will be closed on Monday for the Family Day holiday. And, don't forget to skip ahead a day for garbage collection! Did you know? The Nanaimo Recycles app (available for free from the App Store and Google Play) will send reminders of when your next garbage or recycling day is. You can also sign up for reminders on the Garbage and Recycling Calendar page on the City website

New inclusive playground
The playground in Maffeo Sutton Park will see some changes in May with play equipment replacing the existing structures. Working with the Children's Health Foundation of Vancouver Island, Nanaimo Child Development Centre and other community organizations the new playground will increase inclusive play spaces.

Another exciting feature of the playground is the inclusion of First Nations art pieces created by local artist, Noel Brown. Through his art and the design of the space, a story will unfold that depicts life along the Millstone River with Coho salmon as some of the characters.

Work on the playground is expected to be completed by spring of 2020.

Upcoming community events:

• Thursday, February 13: Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week features Larry Alexander Gates.
• Friday, February 14: Free Everyone Welcome Skate, 3:45 – 5:15 pm at the Nanaimo Ice Centre, courtesy of Coast Capital Savings
• Sunday, February 16: Lions Free Skate, 12 to 1:30 pm at Frank Crane Arena

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings 

It's another quiet week with a Governance and Priorities Committee meeting on Monday and the monthly Public Hearing taking place on Thursday.  

• Monday, February 10: Governance and Priorities Committee meeting at 1 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street 
• Thursday, February 13: Public Hearing at 7 pm in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre Shaw Auditorium

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings. 

Here's a recap of City news from February 3-7:

• Early warning by security systems saves two homes
• Maffeo Sutton Playground Getting Upgrades
• City provides grant to Snuneymuxw First Nation to assist Saysutshun ferry
• Literacy program expanding with $30,000 to help Nanaimo’s most vulnerable

This week we see if we are in for more winter, make a call for banner designs and keep a lid on hot drinks. Read on!

Is it spring yet?
Sunday, February 2 marked Groundhog Day. Tradition says that if a groundhog sees its shadow when it emerges from its burrow on February 2, it will mean six more weeks of winter. Down south they have Punxsutawney Phil, but here in Canada we have Wiarton Willie. Did he see his shadow?

Whether we are in for more winter or spring, be prepared for rainy weather! Prevent flooding in your home by making sure the eaves around your home are clear of leaves and debris. Help prevent flooding on our roads and other properties by making sure the storm drains and catch basin in front of your home are clear of leaves and debris. Please report clogged and/or overflowing storm drainage inlets, catch basins or manholes to Public Works at 250-758-5222. Public Works also has sand and sand bags for filling - make sure to bring a shovel.

Watch the video below for how to clear catch basins. 

In the event of snow, be prepared by ensuring you have supplies, proper attire for the weather and winter tires on your vehicle. See below for how the City is prepared for snowfall and find more information on our Snow and Ice Control page. 

Calling all artists and designers!
Want to help decorate Nanaimo? We are looking for someone to design the new street banners that will adorn major commuting corridors in spring 2020 and summer 2021. 

Interested in submitting a design? Attend an information meeting on Tuesday, February 4 in the Bowen Park Upper Lobby beginning at 4 p.m. where you will have an opportunity to view past examples of banner designs and ask questions about the competition. Find more about this competition on the Bid Opportunities page on the City website.

Keep a lid on it!
Hot drinks are tasty, but also a leading cause of hospitalization from scalds for children under 5. Whenever you have a hot drink around a child, use a travel mug with a screw-on lid. 

The video below is a collaborative project by the Nanaimo Professional Firefighters IAFF 905 Charitable Society, Nanaimo Fire Rescue, The British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters' Burn Fund and the City of Nanaimo. 

Upcoming Community Events:

• Tuesday, February 4: Glow in the Dark Skate, 6:30 to 8 pm in Frank Crane Arena 
• Thursday, February 6: Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week features Silver & Gold.
• Sunday, February 9: Lions Free Skate, 12 to 1:30 pm at Frank Crane Arena

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings 
It's another quiet week with only the Regular Council meeting taking place on Monday.  

• Monday, February 3: Regular Council meeting at 7 pm in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre Shaw Auditorium

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings. 

Here's a recap of City news from January 27-31:

• Dog owners reminded to renew licences for 2020
• CALLING ALL ARTISTS! Help decorate Nanaimo by submitting a street banner design!
• Council Announces 2020 Culture & Heritage Award Recipients
• 2020 Business Licence Fees are Past Due
• Ground-breaking news! Construction of PEG's Gordon St. hotel officially underway

This week we get prepared, break ground and have a sneak peek of this year's temporary public art selection. Read on!

Moving and Shaking
Did you feel the earthquake Friday afternoon? At around 1:30 p.m., a 4.5 magnitude earthquake struck off the south west coast of the island and could be felt here in Nanaimo. While this was a relatively small earthquake, it is a good reminder to be prepared for when a big one strikes. 

Being prepared starts with getting an emergency kit together. It's recommended that you have at least seven days worth of supplies if you live on an island. Watch the video below to see how to prepare a kit and visit the Personal Preparedness page on the City website for more information. 

If you haven't already, sign up for emergency alerts from the City of Nanaimo with the Voyent Alert! app. Watch the video below to see how simple it is to register and visit the Emergency Call Alert System page on the City website for more information. 

Breaking Ground 
Things are looking up for 100 Gordon Street - nine storeys up! This past December, PEG Development began site work for the new hotel at 100 Gordon Street and will host a ceremonial ground-breaking this week! The City is excited to see the project move forward. Stay tuned as more construction updates will take place as the project commences. 

Art About Town
Nanaimo City Council has approved 10 news pieces of public art as part of the 2020 Temporary Outdoor Public Art Program. Watch for the new art to be installed in Nanaimo's outdoor public spaces beginning in May.

The following artworks were chosen:

• JOY IN THE LIFE AND BALANCE - Joanne Helm
• HISTORY NEEDS A REWRITE - Maggie Wouterloot
• SEA BED - Peter Achurch
• THE FOSSIL LAUGHS - Steve Milroy
• OUT FROM OUT WHERE: BEYOND LIMINALITY - Bryan Faubert
• JARDINIERE - Deryk & Samuel Houston
• NAME YOUR DOG! - Joel Prevost
• OUR COMMON ANCESTOR - Maggie Wouterloot
• NOT OUT OF THE WOODS - Marc Walter
• UNTITLED - Troy Moth

Upcoming Community Events:

• Thursday, January 30: Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week features Coombs Old Time Fiddlers.
• Sunday, February 2: Lions Free Skate, 12 to 1:30 pm at Frank Crane Arena

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings 
It's a quiet week with only the Governance and Priorities Committee meeting taking place on Monday.  

• Monday, January 13: Governance and Priorities Committee meeting at 9 am in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street 

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings. 

Here's a recap of City news from January 20-26:

• 2020 Temporary Outdoor Public Art Selections Approved

Snow today, gone tomorrow! With the snow melting away and a warmer, wet week ahead, it’s a great time to sit back and catch up with this week’s City news and events. It begins with a thank you to you, Nanaimo, applications are still being accepted for the new Advisory Committee on Accessibility and Inclusiveness, and we talk about solutions for missed garbage collection during the snow days. Read on!

Thank you!

We want to take this opportunity to thank residents and businesses for clearing the snow and ice from the sidewalks in front of your property. When the snow falls, duty calls, and we know there are plenty of inconveniences and challenges that come with it. We would also like to offer extra thanks to those who were able to clear the snow from their catch basins. Well done!

Committing to a Committee for the Community

Inclusivity and accessibility are hot topics these days, and rightfully so. Creating a society that is accommodating, accepting, and enables and empowers everyone to be the best they can be and as involved as they want to be is no small task.

The City of Nanaimo is continuing to recruit for the Advisory Committee on Accessibility and Inclusiveness. Members will be committing to a two hour meeting every two months, as well as reading and preparation time before the meetings.

This committee promotes social and political equity within existing and proposed City plans, policies, bylaws and infrastructure and makes recommendations to ensure that the City is inclusive and accommodating to citizens of all ages, abilities and walks of life.

If you would like to apply to join the committee, please fill out and submit an application form before Friday, January 24 at 4:30pm.

Upcoming Community Events:

• Thursday, January 23:Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week featuring Pickin’ Pals.
• Friday, January 24: Free Swim, 7 to 9 pm at the Beban Pool, courtesy of Coast Capital Savings
• Sunday, January 26: Lions FREE Skate, noon to 1:30 pm in Frank Crane Arena

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings

This week, the Governance and Priority Committee meets to discuss the first quarter, the Health and Housing Task Force looks at funding for long-term recovery beds, and the Environment Committee looks at its workplan.

• Monday, January 20: Special Governance and Priorities Committee Meeting at 12:30 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street
• Wednesday, January 22: Health and Housing Task Force at 3 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street
• Wednesday, January 22: Environment Committee at 5 pm in the HR Training Room (2^nd Floor) at Nanaimo’s City Hall

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings. 

If you’ve been reaching these weekly updates you are likely aware of our Council Meeting Summaries page, but did you know that we have a page where we post Committee Meeting Summaries as well? Here you can find a summary of motions made at any Committee meeting including the Finance and Audit Committee, Health and Housing Task Force, Environment Committee and more!

The snow last week was all the talk! Well, almost. Here's a recap of City-related news:

• City snowfall and refuse collection disruptions
• City appoints new General Manager of Corporate Services
• Partnership to tackle Nanaimo homelessness begins implementation plan
• Cancelled garbage collection FAQs

This week we brace for snow! Some other things will happen too such as Super Hero fun and Council is back in session. Read on!

Oh no, snow!

Traditional Canadian winter weather in the form of snow officially arrived in Nanaimo early Monday morning. With it comes icy travel conditions. Whatever mode of travel you use to get around, please use extra care during times of snow and ice. 

The City prepares for winter road conditions by brining streets before icy conditions are expected. Our plows are ready to clear roads and we make sure access to City facilities is maintained by clearing sidewalks around facilities and their parking lots. We also clear sidewalks on bridges along with the Waterfront Walkway and E & N Trail.

If you are travelling through Nanaimo in snowy conditions, please make sure you have winter tires on your vehicle. Pedestrians, please dress for the weather - bundle up! 

Help make sure everyone can get around the community during times of snow by clearing the sidewalk outside your home or business. Have a neighbour who isn't able to clear their sidewalk? Be a snow champ and offer to shovel for them. 

Find more information on Snow and Ice Control on the City's website.

And stay updated on winter weather conditions in Nanaimo by checking out the homepage of the website or following us on Twitter or Facebook. 

Postponed! Raising a flag for reconciliation

UPDATE: Due to the forecast for more snow and increased wind, the flag raising ceremony has been postponed. Stay tuned for a new date!

This week, we will recognize the important relationship between the City of Nanaimo and the Snuneymuxw First Nation. On Thursday, January 16, the Snuneymuxw flag will be returned to its permanent position at City Hall.  You are invited to attend this special ceremony taking place outside City Hall (weather permitting) beginning at 9:30 am. 

East Wellington Park plans take shape

Planning for future uses of East Wellington Park is underway and the City would like to hear from residents on what they think of the draft plan so far. Some ideas for the park include:

• habitat conservation for fish, amphibians, birds and other wildlife,
• agricultural use,
• encouraging use of the park for astronomy and
• a dog walking area.

Please join us at an open house to review and provide input on the park draft plan on January 18 between 10:00 am - 2:30 pm at the Cavallotti Lodge, 2060 East Wellington Road. After the open house, you will have the opportunity to join staff for a walk through of the park. If you are planning to join, please bring proper footwear.

Can't make it to the open house? No problem! Please review the draft plan online and provide comments to eastwellingtonparkplan@nanaimo.ca or phone 250-755-7506 and speak to the Parks and Open Space Planner. 

• Thursday, January 16: Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week features Oldies but Goldies.
• Friday, January 17: Free Everyone Welcome Skate, 3:45 – 5:15 pm at the Nanaimo Ice Centre, courtesy of Coast Capital Savings
• Saturday, January 18: Starlight Skate, 7 to 9 pm at the Nanaimo Ice Centre
• Sunday, January 19: Lions Free Skate, 12 to 1:30 pm at Frank Crane Arena
• Sunday, January 19: Super Hero Fun Swim, 1:30 to 3:30 pm at Beban Pool

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

Call for committee members!

We are currently recruiting eleven volunteer at-large members for the Advisory Committee on Accessibility and Inclusiveness.

The committee promotes social and political equity within existing and proposed City plans, policies, bylaws and infrastructure and makes recommendations to ensure that the City is inclusive and accommodating to citizens of all ages, abilities and walks of life.

Applications can be downloaded on the City website or picked up from Legislative Services in City Hall (455 Wallace Street) and will be accepted from Monday, January 13 until 4:30 p.m. on Friday, January 24, 2020 and can be delivered by:

Mail/Hand: Legislative Services, 455 Wallace Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5J6

Email: Legislative.Servicesoffice@nanaimo.ca

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings 

Council is back in session this week with a meeting on Monday where the Health and Housing Task Force will provide an update on their first six months of meeting and a look at work for the next six months. The week will continue with an Environment Committee meeting on Wednesday and the Board of Variance will meet on Thursday. 

• Monday, January 13: Regular Council Meeting at 7 pm in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre Shaw Auditorium
• Wednesday, January 15: Environment Committee meeting at 5 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street 
• Thursday, January 16: Board of Variance at 5:30 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street 

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings. 

Here's a recap of City news from January 6 to 12:

• Planning underway for East Wellington Park

The City is committed to working with several partners across all levels of government to join forces in addressing health, housing, and social disorder. Public Safety is important to Council and a significant amount of time, resources and energy are invested into various local programs. Read on to learn about some of the programs and initiatives the City has been working on and what is planned for the future. 

Crime Prevention and Community Policing

Community Policing Programs are active and since 2017 volunteer hours have almost doubled! Dedicated volunteers are working on a bike registration/recovery program called Project 529, which has been successful in recovering and returning 40 bikes to date. They are also doing block watch, speed watch, distracted driving watch, crime watch and assisting with several community events.

The RCMP created a Crime Reduction task force for two 8-week projects—one in the spring and the other in the fall of 2019.  Using intelligence led policing, and modern crime strategies, helped RCMP Members to identify numerous individuals who had outstanding warrants which resulted in arrests, seizures of drugs as well as multiple criminal charges. RCMP Members continually take training to improve service delivery and remain compliant with legislation.  The RCMP’s Bike Patrol Unit consistently monitors activity in both the downtown core as well as other areas within Nanaimo and has strong partnerships with community groups. They also work closely with the City of Nanaimo’s ByLaw Department.  The Nanaimo RCMP is piloting a new online crime reporting tool, which allows citizens to report select non-emergency crimes. To learn more about this pilot project visit Nanaimo RCMP.

Patrolling and Enforcing City Bylaws

Bylaw officers patrol across the City and are responsible for enforcing the City’s bylaws, including:

• BYLAW 7073 – The Parks, Recreation & Culture Bylaw protects personal safety, outlines rules about temporary shelter and identifies that those using the park must conduct themselves in an orderly manner
• BYLAW 7250 – The Nuisance Abatement Bylaw can help recover costs associated with nuisance activity occurring on private properties
• BYLAW 7267 – The Public Nuisance Bylaw addresses impeding or obstructing  persons or vehicles in public places
• BYLAW 7242 – The Property Maintenance Bylaw deals with encampment outlining that transitory or permanent sheltering on private property is not permitted

Fire Prevention and Community Safety

Nanaimo Fire Rescue have responded to over 1200 overdoses since 2017, making this a big part of their daily work life. Nanaimo Fire Rescue continue to perform their own training exercises, while also training 341 community members for Bystander CPR in 2019. Public education highlighting the importance of working smoke alarms remains a key priority and Nanaimo Fire Rescue has attended 140 community events, creating awareness of fire prevent and safety matters with the public.

Keeping our Parks and Recreational Facilities Safe

Parks and facilities have made several improvements including installing additional lighting and alarm systems, clearing under brush and lifting tree canopies to deter overnight shelter, expansion of the needle box programs and reviewing and changing access points to the facilities. Staff have also have increased the frequency of playground inspections, security, trail clean-ups and patrols. Front line staff have also undergone specialized training and regular review emergency procedures.

Planning for a Safe and Inclusive Community

Municipal initiatives enhanced daytime security downtown, provided showers at Caledonia Park and implemented an Urban Clean Up Program along with the Nanaimo Region John Howard Society. The City’s Community Planning section emphasizes that partnerships are critical, such as being a part of the Community Action Team, the Nanaimo Homelessness Coalition, and the new Health and Housing Task Force, who met with the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions in August and discussed social and health matters impacting our community.

The City recognizes that there is an increased number of people with complex health and housing needs in Nanaimo. Funding is provided to the Unitarian Extreme Weather Shelter and supplements to the housing work supported by BC Housing.  The City supports a Housing First program to place homeless individuals in supportive, non-market and market rentals.  In 2019, the City issued building permits for five separate affordable housing developments, totaling 341 units.  The Affordable Housing Strategy, approved in 2018, has good progress to report with the City exceeding its target number of new purpose built rentals in 2018. The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) reported a record number of rental unit completions for last year (536 units), more than double that of the year before (268 units). Overall, purpose-built rentals comprised about 56% of the total units completed in 2018.

Public Safety Next Steps

As public safety continues to be a priority into 2020, here is a list of next steps and in the coming months:

• Motion approved to increase Nanaimo Fire Rescue training budget for six years to implement Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) training
• Motion approved to provide funding for one additional staff member for Victim Services
• RCMP regular members increasing from 144 to 147 in 2020
• Action items implemented from the Health and Housing Task Force and Nanaimo Homelessness Coalition
• Launch of HelpSeeker platform connecting Nanaimo citizens to resources and giving partners critical data to make better decisions and funding allocations
• Continued lobbying to the provincial and federal governments
• Continued specialized staff training on policies and procedures, opioid awareness and naloxone
• Community and Current Planning will be focusing on resiliency by design such as creating safe interactive spaces, livable streets and continuing to include Crime Prevention through Environment Design (CPTED) principles in development approval reviews
• Support Age Friendly Nanaimo in implementing the Age Friendly Plan (endorsed by Council in 2019)
• Complete the ongoing regional child care needs assessment
• Plan youth engagement activities in 2020 that builds resiliency and a healthier community
• Official Community Planning is set to commence in 2020 where public safety will be a priority

To learn more our the Community Safety and Social Issues page. 

This week we move into a new year, get active with Parks and Recreation and Committee meetings are back from a holiday break. 

Happy New Year!

Last week we rang in a new year. From the City of Nanaimo, we wish you a healthy and prosperous 2020. 

Get active in 2020

With the holidays and all the indulgences they bring over, you may be making resolutions to get more active. Our Parks and Recreation department has a number of ways for all ages and abilities to get out and be active. 

Gain Strength: Looking to get toned and gain strength? Check out our Fitness classes available at our recreation facilities. 

Stay Balanced: Looking for a good physical and mindful workout? Try one of our yoga classes. We offer classes tailored to all levels. Find the yoga class for you starting on page 57 of the Fall & Winter Activity Guide.

Get in the Water: Try one of our drop-in aquafit classes, swimming lengths or an Everyone Welcome swim.

Get on the Ice: Never been skating or want to refresh your skills? We have a variety of skating lessons both private and as part of our RecSkate program to help get your footing right.

Dance: How about trying a dance style that is new to you? We offer a variety of dance classes including Ballroom, Bollywood, Hip Hop and Ballet. Find them beginning on page 46 of the Fall & Winter Activity Guide.

Get Outside: Take a moment to enjoy Nanaimo's natural beauty by exploring one of our many parks and trails. 

Be active as a family: from Baby and Me Fitness to ski and snowboard lessons, check out how families can stay active together and have fun on page 31 of the Fall & Winter Activity Guide.

Check out the Fall and Winter Activity Guide for more ways to stay active in 2020 and watch for the Spring and Summer Activity Guide coming out at the end of February!

It's not easy being green!

These famous words from Kermit the Frog, ring true when we make changes in our life to be more environmentally responsible. But, after making it a habit to do things like recycling or choosing an active transportation mode, it doesn't seem so hard. Let's make changes together to make 2020 our greenest year yet.

A new year means new opportunities to get closer to Zero Waste! The City of Nanaimo is here to help you get closer to meeting your Green Resolution with these simple tips:

• Reduce – Say no to single use, and put together an ‘On the Go’ zero waste kit with a reusable bag, water bottle, travel mug, reusable food container and cutlery.
• Reuse – Give away what you can’t use! Share or donate items around your house that aren’t being used.  One person’s trash is another’s treasure!
• Recycle – Say no to wishcycling and recycle right!  When in doubt, find out. When you aren’t sure if something is recyclable, don’t just toss it in the bin. Use the What Goes Where recycling directory on the City website or on the Nanaimo Recycles app. Download the free app on the App Store or Google Play

Where do all the Christmas Trees go?

Not in the green bin! Did you opt for a real Christmas tree this year? If you missed all the tree-chipping fundraisers this past weekend, you can responsibly dispose of your tree at the RDN Landfill located at 1105 Cedar Road. Please make sure all lights, tinsel and decorations have been removed.

If you have a yard, consider gifting your tree back to wildlife! Your tree can provide habitat to birds and other small animals on cold winter nights and blustery storms.

• Tuesday, January 7: Glow in the Dark Skate, 6:30 to 8 pm in Frank Crane Arena 
• Thursday, January 9: Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week features the music of the Beatles.
• Sunday, January 12: Lions Free Skate, 12 to 1:30 pm in Frank Crane Arena

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings 

Council isn't in session this week, but the Economic Development Task Force will meet and a Public Hearing will take place.

• Monday, January 6: Special Economic Development Task Force at 1 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street 
• Thursday, January 9: Public Hearing at 7:00 pm in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre Shaw Auditorium

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings. 

Here's a recap of City news from December 16 to January 3:

• Get into Character for Finale 2019
• Provisional budget passes three readings, 2020 user rates set

This week Council will consider next year's budget, learn how you can burn it smart and have some fun with Santa! Read on!

Budgeting for next year

The road you drive to work on, the park your kids play in, the concert you attend at the Port Theatre. All of these things are around thanks to taxes paid to the City. 

The 2020-2024 Provisional Financial Plan will be considered by Council at their meeting on Monday beginning at 7 pm. Some highlights include:

• Investing in Our Community: through funding for new amenities including construction of the Harewood Youth Park, the multi-year replacement project for Fire Station #1 and the Metral Drive Complete Street project.

• Enhancing Public and Community Safety: with the addition of three RCMP officers in 2020 (15 over the next five years) and two Prisoner Guards; an increase to the Bylaw Enforcement Officer schedule from 35 hours to 40 hours per week and an additional $50,000 funding toward victims services.

• Strengthening Nanaimo’s Economy: through the implementation of an external Economic Development function and with the addition of a Manager of Economic Development Services.

• Supporting Good Governance and Effective Service Delivery: with the addition of a General Manager of Corporate Services, Deputy City Clerk, Urban Forestry Technician, Traffic Signal Technician and Director of IT.

Check out the City's Budget Information page for the latest Financial Plan and 2020 department plans.

This winter, burn it smart!

There's nothing cozier than sitting next to a fire and sipping a warm beverage when it's cold and wet outside. Are you burning smart this season? If you have a wood burning fireplace or stove, make sure to burn wood at a high temperature and don't let it smolder. Burning wood at higher temperatures reduces smoke ensuring cleaner air and it prevents creosote build up in your chimney lowering the risk of a chimney fire.

Learn more and view videos on the Burn It Smart, Nanaimo page on the City website.

Holiday Hours

Ho ho ho! Are you up for a skate with the big guy in red? This Wednesday and Friday, skate with Santa for some merry movement and holiday fun!

As we head into the holiday season, please make note of closures and special hours for City offices and recreation centres over the holidays. All City offices and facilities will be closed on December 25 with many remaining closed on December 26. There are a few exceptions to the closures such as Winter Wonderland at Frank Crane Arena which will be taking place on December 24 and December 26-30. Most facilities will also be closed on January 1, 2020. Find a list of all closures and special holiday hours on the City website. 

Upcoming Community Events:

• Wednesday, December 18: Skate with Santa, 6:30 to 8 pm in Frank Crane Arena 
• Thursday, December 19: Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week features Silver & Gold.
• Friday December 20: Free Skate with Santa courtesy of Coast Capital Savings, 3:45 to 5:15 pm in Nanaimo Ice Centre
• Saturday, December 21: Dunk with Santa, 3 to 5 pm in Nanaimo Aquatic Centre
• Sunday, December 22: Lions Free Skate, 12 to 1:30 pm in Frank Crane Arena

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings 

Council will consider the 2020-2024 Provisional Financial Plan at their meeting on Monday, grant recommendations will be brought to the Finance and Audit Committee on Wednesday and the Board of Variance sits on Thursday.

• Monday, December 16: Regular Council Meeting at 7 pm in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre Shaw Auditorium
• Wednesday, December 18: Finance and Audit Committee Meeting at 9 am in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street 
• Thursday, December 19: Board of Variance at 5:30 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street 

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings. 

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

• Council to vote on 2020-2024 Provisional Financial Plan

And here are a couple of articles from the news, highlighting the City:

• Mayor Krog’s interview with Lynda Steele on CKNW: “The Opioid crisis is nationwide. We talk to Nanaimo’s Mayor about his concerns”
• Mayor wants B.C. to institutionalize severely mental ill people who are homeless

This week provide your thoughts on the Metral Drive Complete Streets project, the Economic Development Task Force has its first meeting and we are out and about for the month of December! Read on!

New curbside collection calendars

Watch your mail box in the coming weeks for your copy of the 2020 curbside collection calendar. We also have the Nanaimo Recycles app to send you collection updates and reminders so you never forget a garbage/recycling day again! Download it for free from the App Store or Google Play. 

Don't have a smart phone? No problem! You can set up telephone reminders on the Garbage & Recycling Calendar page on the City website or by calling Public Works at 250-758-5222. 

Complete Streets - tell us what you think!

The design plans are in and we want to hear from you! In 2020, the City will be redesigning the Metral Drive corridor into a complete street making it a more comfortable road for cars, transit, pedestrians and cyclists to travel on. You may be asking why Metral Drive? The City will be upgrading the water main under the road and the road itself making it a great opportunity to redesign the street.

Have a look at the design plans and take the survey by December 13. 

Provide feedback on your child care needs

The City of Nanaimo has partnered with the District of Lantzville, City of Parksville, Town of Qualicum Beach and the Regional District of Nanaimo to undertake a study of child care needs in our community. Part of this study includes hearing from the community on needs and requirements for child care. 

If you are a parent or caregiver, fill out this survey.

Child care providers and employees are invited to take this survey.

Out and About!

We're out and about with Nanaimo Parks and Recreation for December! Watch the video below to see all the seasonal fun taking place. View other City of Nanaimo videos on our YouTube Channel.

Upcoming Community Events:

• Thursday, December 12: Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week features Flashback Freddy.
• Saturday, December 14: Starlight Skate, 7 to 9 pm in Nanaimo Ice Centre

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings

A shout out to everyone who attended (in person and online) and participated in last week's eTown Hall! This was the first time we streamed the meeting on Facebook Live in addition to the regular Council meeting streaming on our website and broadcast on Shaw Community Channel 4. We received a variety of excellent questions related to the budget and had some great discussion. See you at the next one!

This week begins with the inaugural meeting for the Economic Development Task Force, a budget-focused Finance and Audit Committee meeting and a Design Advisory Panel meeting on Thursday.

• Monday, December 9: Special Economic Development Task Force Meeting at 9 am in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street
• Monday, December 9: Governance and Priorities Committee Meeting at 11 am in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street
• Monday, December 9: Special Finance and Audit Committee Meeting at 3 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street
• Wednesday, December 11: Health and Housing Task Force Meeting at 3 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street 
• Thursday, December 12: Design Advisory Panel Meeting at 5 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street 

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings. 

Here's a recap of City-related news from last week:

• Need child care? The City and its partners want to hear from you!

This week try out the new NanaimoMap, get ready for winter and learn about the City's Affordable Housing Strategy. Read on!

Mapping out Nanaimo

The City of Nanaimo is excited to announce the preview release of the new NanaimoMap. This new map will replace the legacy version of NanaimoMap, which is scheduled to be retired in early 2020.

NanaimoMap is the portal to detailed information on areas such as addressing, property information, active permits, current zoning, utilities and new features like bike lanes, parks trails, and historical aerial imagery. The new version is designed to work intuitively on all screen sizes from smart phones and tablets to large monitors and TVs.

We are welcoming feedback on your experience with the new version of NanaimoMap. Please email your feedback to mapfeedback@nanaimo.ca. 

Brrr! Get ready for winter!

With recent temperatures, winter is officially on its way. Are you ready for winter storms? 

Have a storm readiness plan and an emergency kit. In the event of a power outage or severe weather, make sure your home is stocked with necessary supplies such as:

• battery-powered flashlight
• radio
• ready-to-eat food
• water
• first-aid kit
• blankets
• candles
• extra clothing

Make sure you stay in the know by signing up for City of Nanaimo Alerts through Voyent Alert! Sign up today at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/alerts and be alert ready!

Prevent flooding by ensuring storm drains and catch basins are clear of leaves and debris. If we do get snow this year, remove the snow and ice from the catch basin as long as it is safe to do so. Watch the videos below for tips on how you can safely keep the catch basins clear in front of your home. 

To learn about the City’s snow and ice control management, please visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/snow.  

Nanaimo's Affordable Housing Strategy

Did you know the City has a strategy in place to promote affordable and accessible housing in Nanaimo? The Affordable Housing Strategy was approved by Council in September 2018 and this week staff are providing an update on progress so far. The good news is, things are looking up! Last year, the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation reported a record number of rental units completed with 536 new units built (more than double that of the year before!). Overall, purpose-built rentals comprised about 56% of the total units completed in 2018. Read the full report.

Take our Short Term Rental Survey! As part of the Affordable Housing Strategy, we are reviewing our Zoning and Business License regulations for short term rentals and B&B's and want to hear from you. The survey is open until December 9.

Upcoming Community Events:

• Tuesday, December 1:  Glow in the Dark Skate, 6:30 to 8 pm in Frank Crane Arena
• Thursday, November 28: Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week featuring a Christmas Lunch sponsored by Berwick.
• Sunday, December 8: Lions FREE Skate, noon to 1:30 pm in Frank Crane Arena

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings

This week begins with a Special Finance and Audit Committee Meeting, a budget-focused eTown Hall will open up Monday's Council meeting and the beginning of the month means a public hearing will take place on Thursday.

• Monday, December 2: Special Finance and Audit Committee Meeting at 1 pm in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre's Shaw Auditorium
• Monday, December 2: Regular Council Meeting with an eTown Hall at 7 pm in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre's Shaw Auditorium
• Thursday, December 5: Public Hearing at 7 pm in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre's Shaw Auditorium

Participate in the eTown Hall!

You can attend in person or take advantage of our electronic options, including through the City’s website, Facebook page (CityofNanaimo) and Twitter feed (using #NanaimoTH). Watch the meeting in person, on Shaw Community Channel 4, on the City website or on the City's Facebook page. 

For more Council-related information, read our Stay in Touch with Council blog.

Here's a recap of City-related news from last week:

• City budget to be focus of upcoming eTown Hall
• Metral Drive redesign is about to be unveiled
• Winter is on its way! City reminds residents to prepare for winter weather

It's budget time again, Nanaimo! City Council has been working with staff on planning for 2020. Budget planning for a municipality is a months-long process involving City staff from all departments, Council and residents. 

The process begins in early spring, as staff start updating 10-year project plans. Throughout the summer, business plans, business cases and budgets that support department’s work plans are drafted. They are then reviewed and finalized in the fall. Next, over the course of a number of open meetings, departments present their business plans and proposed budgets to Council. Through discussion and feedback received from residents, Council then make changes to fine-tune the budget. 

The City's budget provides funding for the year ahead including fixed costs such as wages and City facility operations and one-offs such as building a new pump station or installing a new playground in a park. Budget planning also involves managing the City's assets which includes annual maintenance of utilities, roads, parks, trails and facilities and identifying what infrastructure needs to be improved, replaced or built. 

Some highlights of projects proposed for 2020 include: 

• Review of the Official Community Plan 
• Construction of the Harewood Youth Park
• Water course restoration and enhancement program
• Fire Station #1 replacement 
• Metral Drive complete street project
• Pedestrian and cycling safety improvements

Next year, the City will also be addressing a number of service gaps in its budget with the proposed addition of:

• Three RCMP officers (a total of 15 addition officers will be hired over the next five years)
• Traffic Signal Technician
• Two Prisoner Guards
• Director of IT
• Urban Forestry Technician
• General Manager of Corporate Services
• Manager of Economic Development Services
• Funding for implementation of an external economic development function

Have questions or feedback about the budget?

You can attend the meeting on December 2 at 1 pm or participate in the eTown Hall at 7 pm. Participating in the eTown Hall is easy. Come down to the Vancouver Island Conference Centre Shaw Auditorium and ask your questions in person or, wherever you are, you can submit a question on the City website, the City's eTown Hall Facebook event page or Twitter using #NanaimoTH. You can also watch the eTown Hall on Shaw Community Channel 4, the City website or the City's Facebook page.

Review budget information and budget-related meetings held to date:

Budget Information
Wednesday, November 20 Finance and Audit Committee meeting
Friday, November 22 Special Finance and Audit Committee meeting
Monday, November 25 Special Finance and Audit Committee meeting

This week we talk about the upcoming eTown Hall, look at the Metral Drive Complete Street project and focus on safe winter driving. Read on!

Prepare your eQuestions for the eTown Hall

How much of the budget does the City allocate each year towards long-term asset management? How much does it cost to keep the pools fully operational? What colour of shirt does the Mayor prefer to wear during an evening walk?

Okay, maybe that last question doesn’t hit the mark, but here’s your chance to ask budget-related questions of our Mayor and Council at the eTown Hall.

The eTown Hall takes place on Monday, December 2 at 7pm in the Shaw Auditorium at the beginning of that night’s Council Meeting. You can attend in person or take advantage of our electronic options, including through the City’s website, Facebook page (CityofNanaimo) and Twitter feed (using #NanaimoTH) You can even give us a call ahead of the meeting  (250-754-4251, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday). Save the date!

Metral Drive Complete Street Project

The Metral Drive corridor will soon be undergoing a change. Following public design consultation in the spring of this year, the City of Nanaimo has developed plans for this Complete Street project, and will unveil them at an open house event on Wednesday, November 27 between 4:30 and 7 pm at the Pleasant Valley Hall.

A complete street project is one that takes a very complete look at street design. From sustainability and street aesthetics, to safety and multi-modal transportation, these projects aim to make a more usable and inviting streetscape for pedestrians, cyclists, transit-users and drivers alike.

The Metral Drive project is a part of the City of Nanaimo’s commitment to capital improvement projects, which are determined by growth, development, asset management and other priority-based considerations.

Construction upgrades to Metral Drive will begin in 2020. To see the plans in person, come out to the open house or visit www.nanaimo.ca after November 29 to get a complete look at the upcoming complete street!

Ice, ice, maybe! Drive safely.

Temperatures are expected to drop below zero this week, and although it looks unlikely that we will see even a thin blanket of festive white snow, we can prepare for frost and black ice. Every winter season Nanaimo Public Works maintains approximately 1,500 lane KMs of City streets. That’s a lot of roadway!

The City takes a proactive approach by applying brine to our roadways when we anticipate a wet freeze. This anti-icing measure reduces the likelihood of snow and ice bonding to pavement during below zero temperatures and improves road conditions.

To learn more about the City’s snow and ice control measures, visit the City of Nanaimo’s Snow and Ice Control webpage. To learn more about brining, watch this video!

Safe driving is crucial when it comes to black ice and slippery roads. Slow down, stay alert and arrive to your destinations safely!

Have you signed up?

More than 7500 registrations have already come through for the new Voyent Alert notification system. Sign up today at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/alerts and be alert ready!

Upcoming Community Events:

• Wednesday, November 27: Metral Drive Complete Street Open House, 4:30 – 7 pm at the Pleasant Valley Hall (6100 Doumont Road)
• Thursday, November 28:Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week featuring the Nanaimo Harbour City Singers.
• Friday, November 29: Free Swim, 7 - 9 pm at the Beban Pool, courtesy of Coast Capital Savings
• Sunday, December 1: Lions FREE Skate, noon to 1:30 pm in Frank Crane Arena

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

Construction Updates

You can follow project progress and learn about detours that may affect your commute by going to our Current Construction Projects page.

Here is an overview of our current construction zones:

• Plan ahead if you are in the Hammond Bay area as the Hammond Bay Road widening and storm improvements project continues and delays should be expected. 24-hour single-lane traffic is in effect. Hammond Bay is expected to be open to two way traffic around the first week of December with the contractor returning in late February 2020 to complete the work.
• The pump station project at Seventh Street and Park Avenue continues and is expected to be substantially completed this month. Expect single-lane alternating traffic during working hours.
• Work on Haliburton Street will continue until spring 2020. Single-lane alternating traffic will be in effect at times during working hours. Some delays on Haliburton Street can be expected.
• Victoria Road from Milton Road to Selby Street will be closed from Tuesday, November 26, 2019 through Saturday, November 30, 2019 for full road milling and paving. *UPDATE - with the risk of inclement weather, full paving is delayed until the spring. Patching work will continue.
• Farquhar Street to Milton Road and Selby Street to North of Robarts Street will also see some disruption as a small crew removes temporary patching in poor condition. These sections of roadway will be completely repaved in the Spring of 2020.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings

This week begins with a Special Finance and Audit Committee Meeting and a Governance and Priorities Committee Meeting. Please note, the regular Committee of the Whole meeting on the evening of Monday, November 25 has been cancelled. For more Council-related information, read our Stay in Touch with Council blog.

• Monday, November 25: Special Finance and Audit Committee Meeting at 9 am in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre's Shaw Auditorium
• Monday, November 25: Governance and Priorities Committee Meeting at 1 pm in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre's Shaw Auditorium
• Wednesday, November 27: Health and Housing Task Force Meeting at 3 pm in the HR Training Room at City Hall

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings. 

And don’t forget, we also have Committee Meeting Summaries posted online, where you can follow along with the Finance and Audit Committee, Health and Housing Task Force, Environment Committee and more!

Here's a recap of City-related news from last week:

• Deadline extended! Calling all poets! Apply to be Nanaimo’s next poet laureate
• Residents, you may receive an alert November 21. Don’t panic!

This week we begin to look at budgets for the next five years, guest speakers bring Nanaimo’s history to life, and stay in-the-know by signing up now for our new emergency alert system. Read on, Nanaimo!

Are you ready to be alert-ready?

Picture this. You’re outside of your home, taking a moment to enjoy the cool and refreshing air after raking up a huge pile of leaves. Before you move the leaves to your green organics cart, you take a moment to check the messages on your phone. There’s a ‘hello’ from your brother in Saskatoon, an update on the latest Canucks trade, and a fantastic sale on ugly Christmas sweaters, just in time for your office Christmas party! You hope there’s one in your size with jingle bells, cats, and twinkling lights.

Some commotion from across the street distracts you. The Sampsons are rushing their kids out the door. They’re carrying a full backpack, a large water container, and each of the kids has a strong hold on their favourite stuffed toy. Their hurried pace suggests that this is more urgent than a trip to grandma’s for dinner. They’re so focused on hitting the road that they don’t even see you.

Concerned for them, you send a text message, saying that you saw them rushing out. You want to make sure that they are okay. You get a reply.

“We’ll be fine, but our street is being evacuated. Didn’t you get the alert?”

You didn’t, because you haven’t signed up for the new City of Nanaimo notification system.

The new system will push out alerts by text, phone call, email, or through an app, and you can sign up for one or even all of these methods. Sign-up is easy – seriously! It can be as simple as going to the website, entering your postal code and preferred contact information, checking a few boxes, and confirming with a confirmation code that will be sent your way upon registration.

You can also download the Voyent Alert app and walk through the same process in just moments, on both Android and iOS systems. Remember to accept/allow notifications so that alerts will push through when they are issued!

So sign-up now and be alert-ready! Then, with barely a few minutes lost, you can go back to ordering that perfectly ugly Christmas sweater, in all of its twinkling meowyness.

Making dollars make sense. It’s budget time!

If you love money talk and making sense of how municipal dollars are spent, this is your time to take a closer look as the City of Nanaimo's 2020-2024 Draft Financial Plan comes forward! There will be a number of opportunities to review, ask questions and provide input leading up to a budget-focused eTown Hall on Monday, December 2 (save the date!).

There will be four Special Finance and Audit Committee meetings on November 20, 22, 25 and December 2. All meetings are open to the public and will be held in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre's Shaw Auditorium.

The draft plan and other related documents will be available to review here on the City’s website. For anyone wishing to watch the meetings online instead of in-person, you can view them on the City website at www.nanaimo.ca/meetings.

Forward momentum on downtown mobility

How do you move downtown? How do you want to move downtown? Are you a cyclist looking for dedicated cycling lanes, or do you prefer to take the bus? Perhaps your ideal downtown has different parking options.

The Downtown Mobility Hub Project aims to improve multi-modal transportation in the City’s core by developing short-term solutions that could be built within the next five years. Focus areas include intersections, cycling, transit, and parking with the goal of taking concrete steps towards a safe, accessible, inclusive, and interconnected downtown transportation network.

For this project, November is all about feedback. Come to a pop-up event this week or to the public workshop taking place on Wednesday, November 20 at the Coast Bastion Hotel from 5 – 7:30pm. Let us know what you like and what you think needs improvement. More details below in our event section!

From our great parks, to our island lifestyle, we all have our reasons for choosing Nanaimo and calling this home. This Tuesday, Seniors Connect and the City of Nanaimo present ‘Choosing Nanaimo,’ a special Living History Speaker Series event. Come and hear from Ms. Joan Brown (CAO, Snuneymuxw First Nation), Mr. Gunter Gutsche (89 year-old longboarder) and Mr. Craig Taylor (local author).

Upcoming Community Events:

• Tuesday, November 19: Living History Speaker Series: Choosing Nanaimo from 6:30 – 8 pm in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre's Shaw Auditorium
• Wednesday, November 20:Downtown Mobility Hub Project Public Workshop, 5 – 7:30 pm at the Coast Bastion Hotel (11 Bastion St.)
  • Pop-up events are underway as well! Nanaimo Aquatic Centre (Monday, November 18 from 4 – 6 pm), Harbourfront Branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (Tuesday, November 19 from 11 am to 2 pm), and the Vancouver Island University upper cafeteria (Thursday, November 21 from 11 am - 2 pm)
• Thursday, November 21:Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week featuring Oldies But Goodies.
• Friday, November 22: Free Skate, 3:45 – 5:15 pm at the Nanaimo Ice Centre, courtesy of Coast Capital Savings
• Sunday, November 24: Lions FREE Skate, noon to 1:30 pm in Frank Crane Arena

For a look at more City-related events, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

Construction Updates

You can follow project progress and learn about detours that may affect your commute by going to our Current Construction Projects page.

Here is an overview of our current construction zones:

• Plan ahead if you are in the Hammond Bay area as the Hammond Bay Road widening and storm improvements project continues and delays should be expected. 24-hour single-lane traffic is in effect. Hammond Bay is expected to be open to two way traffic around the first week of December with the contractor returning in late February 2020 to complete the work.
• Seventh Street is closed between Park Avenue and Stirling Avenue from November 20 to November 22 to facilitate repair work in the Chase River Bridge. Construction on the project continues and is expected to be substantially completed in November.
• Work on Haliburton Street will continue until spring 2020. Single-lane alternating traffic will be in effect at times during working hours while work is ongoing. Some delays on Haliburton Street can be expected.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings

This week, the Finance and Audit Committee meets to review and discuss the 2020-2024 draft financial plans. Follow along and prepare any budget-related questions that you may have for the eTown Hall on December 2!  For more Council-related information, read our Stay in Touch with Council blog.

• Monday, November 18: Regular Council Meeting at 7 pm in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre's Shaw Auditorium
• Wednesday, November 20: Finance and Audit Committee Meeting at 8:30 am in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre's Shaw Auditorium
• Wednesday, November 20: Environment Committee at 5 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street
• Friday, November 22:Special Finance and Audit Committee Meeting at 9 am in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre's Shaw Auditorium

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings. 

If you’ve been reaching these weekly updates you are likely aware of our Council Meeting Summaries page, but did you know that we have a page where we post Committee Meeting Summaries as well? Here you can find a summary of motions made at any Committee meeting including the Finance and Audit Committee, Health and Housing Task Force, Environment Committee and more!

Here's a recap of City-related news from last week:

• City launches new NanaimoMap!
• Cambie Park being developed through “Partners in Parks” program
• City seeking feedback on short-term rental accommodation
• City seeking artist proposals for a permanent artwork at Maffeo-Sutton Park
• Living History Speaker series returns for one big night

The decisions Council makes, the deliberations that get them there, and the direction they give to City staff is only a few clicks away. Staying in touch with Council begins on the City of Nanaimo's website.

Infrastructure, bylaws, services, spending, and so much more; there's a lot to keep up with! Here's how:

For those who like to watch online, good news! Our Council meetings are live streamed. This means you can either watch what's going on live at work, at home, or later at a more convenient time for you! On this page you can also review the reports to Council that help them with their decision making.

If you are crunched for time and still want to stay connected to civic matters, each week we publish Council Meeting Summaries that provide a rundown of the decisions made at each Council and Governance & Priorities Committee (GPC). 

For those who would like to attend meetings in person, Regular Council Meetings are held in the Shaw Auditorium within the Vancouver Island Conference Centre at 101 Gordon Street. Our Committee and Task Force meetings are mainly held in the Board Room at the Service and Resource Centre, which is located at 411 Dunsmuir Street. For the dates and locations of these public meetings, please visit our Meeting Documents and Videos page.

If you would like to connect with City of Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog or a Council member directly, visit the Contact Mayor and Council page. And from Policies to Proclamations, to learn more about Council visit the Nanaimo City Council page.

Looking for even more? Did you know that we also have a page where we post Committee Meeting Summaries as well? Here you can find a summary of motions made at any Committee meeting including the Finance and Audit Committee, Health and Housing Task Force, Environment Committee and more!

There you have it! A few simple clicks and you can follow Council’s progress. Of course, Council’s decisions have a ripple-down effect to our entire City. Browse through our website to see all of the great projects and work being done at the City of Nanaimo.

Watch Council Meetings

Council Meeting Summaries

Committee Meeting Summaries

Meeting Documents and Videos

Nanaimo City Council page

City of Nanaimo website

Contact Mayor and Council

This week, get ready for Nanaimo Alerts, skate under the ‘stars’ and use a new map to find a great read.

Read on for some mid-November excitement!

Find a great story with the all new 'read' map

Take a book. Leave a book. If you haven’t heard of a little library, well, it is exactly as it sounds. A library of books, free to borrow and enjoy, shelved and sheltered in a small weatherproof stand. The libraries are scattered about town and maintained by volunteers in nearby homes. Nanaimo has plenty of these little libraries, and they’re all plotted out on a new City of Nanaimo Little Libraries Map.

In 2018, the “Spread the Word” team, a part of Leadership Vancouver Island, brought some new life to some of the little libraries around Nanaimo. You can read more about them on the Little Libraries website or watch this video about their project.

Happy reading!

If the ship goes down, you’ll want to know.

Being alert-ready is as simple as signing up. The City of Nanaimo is switching to an improved emergency call alert system which now includes text alerts and an app that residents can download to their phones.

From road closures to shut downs and even potential disaster-inspired evacuations, this system will help ensure that you get the right message at the right time.

Nanaimo Alerts will replace our current emergency alert system on November 21, and although it’s a hassle (yeah, we know!), all of Nanaimo’s residents will need to subscribe to the new system. It’s a requirement of the Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL).

Click to learn more about Nanaimo Alerts (powered by Voyent Alert!).

Have your say! Advisory Committee on Accessibility and Inclusiveness

The City of Nanaimo is looking for feedback on a draft Terms of Reference for a proposed new committee – the Advisory Committee on Accessibility and Inclusiveness.

The committee’s mandate will be “to promote social and political equity within existing and proposed City plans, policies, bylaws and infrastructure and make recommendations to ensure that they are inclusive and accommodating to citizens of all ages, abilities and walks of life.”

Upcoming Community Events:

• Thursday, November 14:Musical Entertainment, 1:30 to 3 pm in the Bowen Park Auditorium. This week featuring Silver & Gold.
• Saturday, November 16: Starlight Skate, 7 to 9 pm at the Nanaimo Ice Centre
• Saturday, November 16: Downtown Mobility Hub Project Pop-Up Event, 10 am to 2 pm at Woodgrove Centre
• Sunday, November 17: Lions FREE Skate, noon to 1:30 pm in Frank Crane Arena

* Please note: on Saturday & Sunday, Nov 16 – 17, the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre will have limited pool space available to the public, as the Ebbtides and the Special Olympics Swim Team will be hosting short course swim meets. Saturday’s Aquafit classes are cancelled.

Find a complete list of City-related events at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/events.

Construction Updates

You can follow project progress and learn about detours that may affect your commute by going to our Current Construction Projects page.

Here is an overview of our current construction zones:

• Plan ahead if you are in the Hammond Bay area as the Hammond Bay Road widening and storm improvements project continues and delays should be expected. 24-hour single-lane traffic is in effect.

• Seventh Street is closed between Park Avenue and Stirling Avenue until November 15 to facilitate repair work in the Chase River Bridge. Construction on the project continues and is expected to be complete in November.

• Work on Haliburton Street will continue until spring 2020. Single lane alternating traffic will be in effect at times during working hours while work is ongoing. Some delays on Haliburton Street can be expected.

This week’s Council and Committee Meetings

This week, the Finance and Audit Committee will consider a Nanaimo BMX track redevelopment design, a change in firefighter licensing, and more, the Health and Housing Task Force continues forward and the Design Advisory Panel looks at Stewart Avenue.

• Wednesday, November 13: Special Finance and Audit Committee Meeting at 9 am in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street
• Wednesday, November 13: Health and Housing Task Force 3 to 5 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street
• Thursday, November 14: Design Advisory Panel Meeting at 5 pm in the Service and Resource Centre Boardroom, 411 Dunsmuir Street

Visit the Meetings, Documents and Videos page on the City website to view upcoming meetings, agendas and past meeting videos or visit the Council Meeting Summaries page to read a recap of decisions made in previous meetings.

Here's a recap of City-related news from last week:

• Popular tree voucher program returns for a limited time
• City switching to new emergency call alert system
• Mayor Krog meets with Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
• City of Nanaimo seeks input on Downtown Mobility Hub Project