Council Clips

New Land Use Bylaw Approved

The Town of Canmore officially has a new Land Use Bylaw.  Bylaw 2018-22 completely replaces the previous version, Bylaw 22-2010. The purpose of a land use bylaw is to build a community based on the vision of the Town’s Municipal Development Plan and to regulate and control the use and development of land and buildings within the town to achieve efficient, orderly, and economic development. For details about the new bylaw visit Land Use Bylaw.

Town Purchases more Land for Affordable Housing

The New Life Christian Centre is dissolving its charitable organization and divesting itself of its assets. Among those assets is a section of property located on Palliser Trail adjacent to a Canmore Community Housing owned property. This is an ideal location for development of affordable housing, and so Council voted unanimously to purchase the property for a fair market value of $1.8M. The majority of the funding will come from the sale of Mountain Haven Cooperative Housing units, and the balance from the Town’s Perpetually Affordable Housing reserve.

Council also approved:

·         Borrowing Bylaw Amendment Organics Diversion Program – increases the amount the Town is authorized to borrow for completion of renovations to the Waste Management Centre.

·         To see the agenda package and a video of this meeting visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos.

Paid Parking Program Approved

Beginning in June 2020, parking in the Town Centre between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. will cost between $1 and $1.50 per hour and be subject to time restrictions. Parking for 30 minutes or less will be free, there are 250 free parking stalls within a 6-minute walk of downtown, and between October – April, fees will be reduced in prime areas, and some 4-hour street parking will be free. The revenue from the paid parking program will allow the Town to continue to offer free local public transit in 2020. For more information visit Paid Parking & Fare Free Transit.

New Fire Hall Design to Begin

Council directed administration to go ahead with the design of a new 8-bay fire hall on Palliser Trail. This fire hall will replace the existing hall on Railway Avenue, which is no longer large enough or situated to optimally serve our community.  For more information about the project visit New Fire Hall.

2020 Budget Amendments

Last year, Council approved a 2-year budget to cover the Town’s operational and capital requirements for 2019 and 2020. Today, they approved several amendments to the 2020 budget which result in a $69K increase to operating (or a 0.2% tax increase to the previously-approved 4.6%), a $1.7M capital increase, and includes a $70K increase in transit commission funding. The Town of Canmore business plan and budget will be available for review at Budget & Financial Information.

Other Council approvals:

·         Tax Penalty Bylaw Amendment – reduces the penalty amounts charges on unpaid taxes. More information can be found here Property Tax

·         New Tax Installment Payment (TIPP) Bylaw – improves readability, updates outdated terminology; no changes to TIPP program. More information on the program can be found here Property Tax Payment Options

·         Appointments to the Downtown Business Improvement Area board – ratifies membership approved by the BIA board

·         Canmore Eagles agreement – reduces facility rental rates and provides for construction of a new bar facility

To read the agenda reports or see a video of the council meeting visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Paid Parking and Fare Free Transit

Council heard an update on plans to implement paid parking in June 2020 to help manage traffic congestion in the Town Centre. The approach to pricing will be to charge the least amount that will achieve parking utilization targets during peak times. During off-peak times prices can be reduced or eliminated. The program also envisions all-day parking rates in designated areas, several 15-minute free zones, and free all-day parking on certain streets north of Town Centre, as well as a residential parking permit program to prevent spillover in adjacent neighbourhoods. Net revenues are intended to be reinvested into strategies like fare-free transit and Town Centre enhancement. No decision to implement paid parking was made at this meeting, but a decision is scheduled for the December 3 regular meeting of council. For more details on the proposed plan, visit Paid Parking & Fare Free Transit.

Bow Valley Climate Action

Local group Bow Valley Climate Action provided their suggestions to council for implementing two of the goals in the Town’s Climate Action Plan: increase energy efficiency of buildings in the Bow Valley and encourage great use of active transportation and public transportation to reduce GHGs. To read more about the Climate Action Plan visit Climate Action Plan.

Fire Rescue Staffing Review

In 2019, Council approved the addition of two firefighters for the day shifts during the summer months to improve service. The program was a success and will be expanded in 2020 from 11 weeks to 15-16 weeks, depending on budget.

Engineering Design and Construction Guidelines

The Engineering Department is undertaking a full-scale review of the Town’s Engineering Design and Construction Guidelines, a 330-page opus developed to assist developers, engineering consultants, landscape architects, and contractors in the design and construction of Town infrastructure and amenities. The guidelines are scheduled for Council approval at their January 14 meeting.

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

Council received a comprehensive summary of the ways Town of Canmore activities align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, which are a broad framework highlighting the complex and interconnected relationships between environmental, economic, and social factors of well-being.

Wildlife Attractants

After the new bylaw was approved this fall, Bylaw Services responded to 24 complaints of wildlife being attracted by fruit or berries on trees. Only two tickets were issued, as their focus was on education and awareness, and most residents complied immediately by either removing the fruit, or removing the trees altogether. Visit Removing Wildlife Attractants for more information.

Committee of the Whole regular features

·         Councillor Updates

·         Service Area Reports

·         Council Resolution Action List

·         Bow Valley Regional Housing Bulletins

If you are interested in reading the reports associated with the items presented the committee of the whole meeting, follow this link to the November 19 meeting agenda package.

Canmore Bighorn Intermunicipal Development Plan

New legislation requires municipalities with common borders to adopt intermunicipal development plans. The Town has prepared a plan with our bordering municipality, the M.D. of Bighorn, which addresses land use planning on lands bordering both municipalities including things like future land use, utility services, environmental matters, and transportation corridors. A public hearing will be held on December 3, 2019 to hear from any member of the public who wishes to comment. For more information visit Intermunicipal Development Plan (IDP).

Proposed Rogers Wireless Cell Tower Installation

Council agreed to submit a letter of concurrence to Rogers Communication indicating that Council has no objection to Rogers installing a new cell tower across from Elevation Place near Pumphouse 1. The tower will have a simulated pine tree design similar to the cell tower that already exists in that location.

Organics Program Budget Increase

Council approved a project last year to expand the Waste Management Centre to support the new Organics Diversion Program.  During the design stage of the project it was discovered that the increase in square footage requires the installation of a sprinkler system and water supply line to meet building code requirements. Council agreed to an increased budget of $450,000 to be funding by borrowing. The borrowing bylaw received first reading and is now being advertised prior to further readings. For more information visit https://canmore.ca/town-hall/bylaws-policy/bylaws-pending-approval.

Solar Panels Approved for Elevation Place

The Town has successfully applied for an Alberta Municipal Solar program rebate that will fund approximately 30% of the costs associated with installing solar panels on the Elevation Place roof. In order to take advantage of this grant, which is not likely to continue, Council voted to fund the $594,000 project.  $430,000 will come from the general capital reserve and $164,000 from the grant. An additional $56,000 was approved, in the event that a subsequent grant application is approved to add solar panels to the remainder of the roof not covered by the initial grant. This project aligns with goals set out in council Climate Action plan, which you can learn more about at Climate Action Plan.

Impact of Provincial Budget on the Town of Canmore

Alberta Budget 2019 has resulted in a number of operational and capital impacts on the Town of Canmore’s budget. Reductions were announced to revenue from policing and bylaw fines, transit, and grants. As well, funding for Parent Link will be discontinued in March of 2020, although a new program is being announced later this week that may replace some programming. The Town has now received the 2019 Education Requisition amount from the Province of Alberta, which will result in an additional $188,000 to be collected through the 2020 Property Taxes. To hear a full discussion of the budget impacts, watch the webcast of the meeting at the link below. More details will be shared as we determine the extent of the impact to our budgets.

To see the agenda package and video of this meeting visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos.

Every October Council holds an organizational meeting to:

·         Set their regular meeting schedule,

·         Appoint deputy mayors, and

·         Appoint council members and members of the public to boards and committees

Council Meeting Schedule

Council will hold a regular business meeting on the first Tuesday of every month at 9 a.m. (except for in January when it will be held January 14) and the committee of the whole meeting is scheduled for the third Tuesday at 1 p.m. No meetings will be scheduled between July 8 and August 17. Details can be found here: Council Meetings

Deputy Mayor Schedule

The deputy mayor acts as mayor when the mayor is unable to perform his duties, or if the office of the mayor becomes vacant. Council continued their tradition of approving an annual roster where each councillor is appointed as deputy mayor for a two-month period. You can see the schedule here: Meet Town Council

Committee and Board Appointments

Council appointed public members to seven committees, and appointed council reps to a total of 29 internal and external committees. We will be notifying public member applicants before we update our website, but by the end of this week you will be able to see which public members were appointed by visiting Boards and Committees.

Land Use Bylaw passes second reading

The Land Use Bylaw sets out regulations for building and development projects in Canmore. The bylaw is currently under review and significant changes are being proposed.  Today Council gave second reading to the proposed new bylaw and scheduled a public hearing for Tuesday, November 12 starting a 5 p.m. To learn more about the recommended changes and how you can comment, visit Land Use Bylaw.

Council declares State of Climate Emergency

Canmore has a long-standing commitment to taking meaningful action related to environmental stewardship and climate change action. The declaration of a State of Climate Emergency is intended to reaffirm that commitment and add Canmore’s voice to a growing number of communities, territories, and nations making similar declarations. To learn more about the Town’s Climate Action Plan visit Climate Action Plan.

Accommodating overnight parking

After reviewing a research report that analyzes the increasing trend of people residing in their vehicles, Council directed staff to develop a municipal program offering seasonal, safe, overnight parking in Canmore. Details of the program will be brought back for Council approval in early December.  To read more about how the Town is addressing overnight parking, visit  Safe Park Pilot Program.

In other news …

·         Council received an evaluations of options available to provide intercept parking in Canmore. Staff recommended a next step of assessing private and public lands, and will be bringing a request to Council before the end of the year for a budget to complete assessment in 2020.

·         The Policing Committee was disbanded.  Town administration will resume the management of the Municipal Police Services Agreement, and working groups and task forces will be struck when necessary to address specific policing issues as they arise.    

·         The Protective Services department received permission to apply for a provincial grant to fund a shared Emergency Management Coordinator position with the Town of Banff.

To read any of the reports included the meeting agenda package or to watch a video of the meeting, visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos.

Overnight Parking on Municipal Lots

The Town’s outreach worker presented the results of his research into the demographics of people living in their vehicles on public property along with the effects of enforcement activities carried out over the summer. At their October 1 meeting, Council will be asked to give staff direction for working on long-term actions. For more information visit Safe Park Pilot Program.

Teepee Town Redevelopment

Administration presented a summary of changes they will be recommending to planning regulations affecting the Teepee Town neighbourhood. These changes are intended to allow for more affordable housing opportunities and support efficient development of land, among other things. An updated Area Redevelopment Plan and Land Use Bylaw recommendations are scheduled for Council’s December 3 meeting, after which a public hearing will be scheduled. An open house will be held on Oct. 3, and more information is available at Area Structure & Redevelopment Plans.

Committee of the Whole regular items

Have a look at the meeting agenda package to read:

·         Protective Services mid-year statistics

·         Councillor Updates

·         Service Area Reports

·         Council Resolution Acton List

·         Bow Valley Regional Housing Bulletin

Organics Recycling Arrives in Canmore

Today the Town’s residential food waste program was officially launched.  Starting on September 3, Canmore residents will be able to dispose of food scraps and food soiled paper in 5 different locations throughout the community. For more information visit Residential Food Waste Collection. In related news, Council approved the purchase of 2000 additional home food waste bins. The original purchase of 2000 bins has almost been depleted by residents eager to reduce the amount of waste they send to the landfill.

2020 Climate Action Plan Priorities

In December 2018, Council approved the Town of Canmore Climate Action Plan, which commits the community to reducing GHG emissions by 30% by 2030 and commits the Town corporation to a 50% reduction in the same period.  Twenty-one of the over 60 recommended actions will be initiated next year.  For more information visit Climate Action Plan.

Lions Park Tennis Court Expansion

The Canmore Tennis Association has been working with the Town to cost share on a project to expand the Lions Park tennis courts. The association applied for a provincial grant earlier this year to help with funding, but unfortunately they were unsuccessful. They are now applying for a smaller grant and have proposed reducing the project from 5 courts to 4 courts. Council approved the revised scope for the project, which will go ahead only if the grant funding is received.

Snow and Ice Control Agreement Extended

Council approved extending the Town’s contract with Volker Stevin Contracting Ltd. For snow and ice control services until July 31, 2020.  Administration will be issuing a request for proposals for this service in the new year.  

Three Sisters Mountain Village Update

Representatives of Three Sisters updated council on the progress they’ve made on their new area structure plan and supporting studies including environmental impact, transportation impact, and steep creeks hazard. They expect to conduct more public engagement this fall, prior to submitting a new area structure plan before the end of the year. For more information visit Three Sisters Mountain Village Area Structure Plan Applications

Management of Wildlife Attractants

Council approved a Wildlife Attractant Management Plan aimed at reducing the number of human-wildlife interactions in the community and broadly addressing Canmore’s efforts to live near wildlife. Four tactics as identified and described: enforcement, education, attractant management, and policy alignment.  You can read the plan  pdf here (574 KB) . Council also made an amendment to the Town’s existing Wildlife Attractant Bylaw that will compel property owners to remove fruit or fruit before dangerous wildlife is attracted. This includes, but isn’t limited to, fruit from a crabapple or mountain ash tree, or shepherdia (buffaloberry) bush. To read more about removing wildlife attractants visit Removing Wildlife Attractants.

FireSmart Work Continues

Council approved a project, funded entirely through a provincial grant, to carry out FireSmart work in the Bow Valley Wildland Park, which is entirely within our municipal boundaries and adjacent to the Banff National Park east boundary. To learn more about the Town’s FireSmart program visit FireSmart.

Council also approved:

·         The Town of Canmore and Improvement District No. 9 Intermunicipal Collaboration Framework Bylaw as required by new provincial legislation.

·         A Collective Agreement between the Town and the Canadian Union of Public Employees sub-local 37. The union represents the Town’s streets and roads employees.

Today Council met as the Committee of the Whole to hear the following updates and briefings from staff.

Planning and Development Process Improvement

Planning and development is working on a policy to standardize the process for creating Area Structure Plans, Area Redevelopment Plans, and Conceptual Schematics, all of which apply to the development of neighourhoods and groups of neighbourhoods. Stakeholder engagement will begin before the fall of 2019. In the meantime, if you’d like to learn more about what the planning and development does, visit Planning & Development

Housing Needs Assessment

Bow Valley Regional Housing has completed an assessment of housing needs throughout the Bow Valley, from Lake Louise to Kananaskis. The assessment includes the full spectrum of non-market housing needs including affordability, seniors, employee and special needs housing. Results indicate there is a need for affordable rental housing for 360 households and affordable home ownership for 148 households. The Bow Valley (including Banff) will have to supply 22 units per year on average just to keep pace with the growth of households in need. A key observation from the consultant is that continued growth of non-permanent housing, and limited land availability, require different planning to ensure new housing is meeting demands for a diversity of housing types. To read the report, see item D2a2 of the agenda package  pdf 2019 07 16 COW Agenda Regular (27.22 MB)

Bow Valley Parent Link

Bow Valley Parent Link provides early childhood resources and support to parents and caregivers of children aged 0 to 5 years in Bow Valley communities from Lake Louise to the MD of Bighorn, including Banff and Canmore. The department is launching a new schedule in September to address the growing popularity of their programs. For more information visit https://canmore.ca/residents/family-community-services/parental-support

Camping on Municipal Lots

Staff from bylaw services and the outreach worker updated Council on the Town’s efforts to discourage overnight camping in municipal parking lots. Bylaw Services are monitoring other nearby lot as well as areas in town where complaints have been received about overnight parking. Most offenders are visitors passing through town and they are being educated and directed to move along. Other offenders are being issued tickets, and there have been 46 parking tickets issued in the panhandle lot. For more information about this initiative, visit Safe Park Pilot Program

Fire Rescue Service Improvements

The Fire Rescue Master Plan, completed in 2017, contains 49 recommendations for improving services. The progress update submitted today shows that all recommendations are now either complete, in progress, or in research. To read the plan and the 2019 progress update, visit Guiding Documents

Calgary-Bow Valley Mass Transit Feasibility

The Mass Transit Feasibility Study was commissioned to look at the possibility of introducing a bus or rail-based mass transit service between Calgary and the Bow Valley. To read the report visit https://canmore.ca/documents/3140-calgary-bow-valley-mass-transit-feasibility-study-final-report

Canmore Eagles Business Clarification

Canmore Eagles and Pinnacle Hockey clarified their financial relationship to address administrative challenges with facility bookings and perception challenges in the community.

Committee of the Whole Regular Features

Check out the meeting agenda package to read:

• Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors
• Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities
• Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration
• Bow Valley Regional Housing updates

 You can also see a video of the presentations at Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Railway Avenue Design

Council accepted a comprehensive Concept Design Brief for underground utility work and above-ground design changes on Railway Avenue South and directed staff to go ahead with detailed design and construction. This project is the first phase of a larger project that will see improvements made to the entire length of Railway Avenue.  For more information visit https://canmore.ca/projects/transportation-projects/railway-avenue

New Snow and Ice Control Policy Approved

Things have changed in the 17 years since Council approved the Town’s snow removal policy, so today they approved a modern snow and ice control policy to address changes in transportation infrastructure, Town resources, and environmental sustainability.

Council also approved:

·         Adding the manager of IT to the list of designated officers,

·         Charging Three Sisters Mountain Village a fee of $4,300 to process a subdivision application to consolidate their parcels in the resort centre area into a single parcel,

·         Addition of temporary admin support in the economic development department and an in-house project coordinator for the Transportation Improvement Program 2020 (TIP20), and

·         A shift to how recreation fees are determined.

To read reports in the meeting agenda package or watch a video of the meeting visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Today was Council’s committee of the whole meeting, which is the forum they use to hear briefing reports on administration’s various activities.

Peaks to Prairies Southern Alberta Electric Vehicle Network

Canmore has been selected to host an electric vehicle (EV) charging station as part of the Peaks to Prairies Southern Alberta Electric Vehicle Network. The public charging station will be located in the parking lot adjacent to Miner's Hall and be available to the public. Implementation of this project supports the Town's Climate Action Plan, where we committed to supporting the build-out of EV infrastructure throughout the community. For more information, and to see a list of all EV charging locations in town, visit Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Canmore

Snow and Ice Control Policy

The Town's current Snow Removal Policy is almost 17 years old and is due for an update to reflect Council's strategic goals around transportation and accessibility. As well, the current contract for servicing the municipal roadways is set to expire on July 31, 2019 and will go out for tender and will include meeting the service level expectations outlined in the new policy. You can read the proposed details in the agenda package https://canmore.ca/documents/3321-2019-06-18-cow-agenda

Affordable Services Program

The Affordable Services Program (ASP) has been in place for two years, and the number of participants has far exceeded expectations. Currently, 44% of participants have been in Canmore for one to five years, while 33% have been here for 15 or more years. There are 844 people in the program: 313 single adults, 54 couples, 67 dual parent families, 71 single parent families, and 218 children. Based on the feedback provided by renewal participants, the data indicates that the program is reaching its intended outcomes and making a major difference in the lives of low-income earners in Canmore. As one participant said, “it’s a real life-changer.” Affordable Services Program

Car Camping on Municipal Lots

A short-term parking restriction from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. has been in place since the beginning of the month and an outreach worker has been hired to connect people with resources and collect demographic info. In order to be able to recommend long-term solutions, we need to determine who is sleeping in the lots and what their needs are. Since the restrictions have been in place there is more availability of parking during the day, but people are returning to park a night. We will be reaching out to businesses to determine the impact of parking restrictions, as well as counting vehicles at various times of the week, and meeting with individuals to understand their situation. For more information, visit Safe Park Pilot Program

Committee of the Whole Regular Features

Check out the meeting agenda package to read:

•         Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors
•          Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities
•          Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration
•          Bow Valley Regional Housing updates

You can also see a video of the presentations at Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Spring Creek Phase 3 (Bylaw 2019-18)

After considering submissions received at the public hearing held at the beginning of this council meeting, Council approved Bylaw 2019-18.  This bylaw creates Stage 3 of Spring Creek Mountain Village in accordance with their area structure plan and establishes several public use and environmental districts. You can read the entire Spring Creek Mountain Village area structure plan at https://canmore.ca/documents/planning-building-development/area-structure-plans/278-spring-creek-mountain-village-arp

Future Affordable Housing in Stewart Creek

Council voted in favour of transferring two Town-owned parcels in Stewart Creek Phase to the Canmore Community Housing Corporation. The CCHC is now in a position to develop up to 14 perpetually affordable housing units in this area as resources become available.

Rainbow Crosswalk Coming to Canmore

The Gay-Straight Alliance Group from the Canmore High School made a presentation to Council at the May committee of the whole meeting.  They had several suggestions for ways the Town could support individuals who identify as LGBTQ+, one of which was to install a rainbow crosswalk. Today Council voted unanimously to direct staff to work with the GSA on selecting a suitable location for installing the crosswalk in 2019.

Other council items:

·         Council accepted the Fire Hall Study for planning purposes, and

·         Council was presented with the year-to-date financial report.

There were two meetings today – a special business meeting to pass the 2019 property tax bylaw and a committee of the whole meeting, where Council heard briefing reports from the public and from administration.

Property Tax Bylaw
Each year the Town collects taxes from residential and commercial property owners to satisfy approved budget requirements.  The Town also collects revenue for perpetually affordable housing, and is required to collect provincial education tax, the seniors housing requisition, and linear and industrial assessment requisitions.  While the total amount being collected has increased slightly since last year, whether or not an individual owner will see an increase in their bill depends on their property assessment. For more information click here Property Tax

Public Presentations
There were five presentations from members of the public.  If you are interested in learning more about any of these topics, you can read the written submissions in the meeting agenda package. 

• The Canmore Collegiate High School Gay-Straight Alliance Group shared ideas for celebrating diversity in Canmore.
• The Bow Valley Clean Air Society congratulated the Town for approving the Climate Change Action Plan and described their efforts to improve and protect the air quality in the Bow Valley and minimize regional contributions to climate change.
• The Palliative Care Society of the Bow Valley described plans to open a 6-bed residential hospice in Canmore.
• YWCA Banff spoke to their proposal to build a facility in Canmore with services that address domestic and sexual violence in the Bow Valley.
• Epcor, the Town’s water and wastewater services provider, presented their 2018 performance report.

Cultural Master Plan Update
Annalee Adair, the consultant preparing Canmore’s new Cultural Master Plan, presented Council with the information they have gathered so far with their community engagement activities. Next steps include further developing priorities, creating a measurement and evaluation framework, and working towards an implementation plan. To learn more about this project click here Cultural Advisory Committee

Committee of the Whole Regular Features

• Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors
• Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities
• Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration
• Bow Valley Regional Housing updates

Peaks Landing Development Approved

After several years of controversy, Council has approved a bylaw to rezone a vacant parcel of land known as Peaks Landing, located in the Peaks of Grassi neighbourhood. While this issue pits the larger community benefit of affordable housing against the impact to the neighbourhood, the compromise is to not develop housing on the largest site and designate it as Municipal Reserve (MR), while prioritizing affordable housing. The rezoning will allow 14 townhouse units (10 PAH and four market units) on one site, and the second site will allow for up to eight duplex dwellings. For more information visit https://canmore.ca/municipal-services/residents-development-planning/public-engagement-information/peaks-landing

Overnight Car Camping on Municipal Property

Since the summer of 2018, the number people who live or camp in their vehicles has increased significantly. Most apparent are the vehicles parked overnight behind Save-On-Foods and beside Elevation Place. A municipal working group was formed to provide recommendations, and today council directed administration to implement a parking time restriction for this area to discourage repeated overnight parking and to allocate funds to hire a seasonal outreach worker to work with people using the area as a home.  The outreach worker will provide social support for individuals camping in the area and report on the impact of enforcement actions and alternatives to be considered by Council later this year. For more information visit Safe Park Pilot Program

Free Transit!

Canmore’s local Roam service will be free for all riders starting on the May long weekend. The fare-free program will run until the end of the year, and the meantime, administration will be working on recommendations aimed at making the service free beyond 2019. These recommendations will involve an evaluation of downtown paid parking, which council will be looking at during budget discussions in the last quarter of 2019. For more information visit Local & Regional Bus Service

And Much More

To read the staff reports or watch the video for these and the other 11 business items considered at this meeting visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

The Finance Committee met to review and accept the Town’s 2018 financial statements and to allocate the 2018 operating surplus.  The Finance Committee is made up of all members of Council plus our CAO, Lisa de Soto.

2018 Consolidated Financial Statements

The Town’s 2017 consolidated financial statements were audited by an external third party, Avail LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants. You can see the statements, as well as statements from previous years, at Budget & Financial Information

2018 Operating Surplus

2018 closed with a $1.4M operating surplus.  The surplus resulted from unexpected levels of revenue plus additional savings in contracted/professional services and general operational expenses. Council allocated the surplus to the following reserve accounts:

·         $447,000 to the General Municipal Operating Reserve

·         $349,726 to the Tax Stabilization Reserve

·         $378,000 to the PAH Reserve

·         $200,000 to the Asset Replacement-Rehabilitation Reserve

·         $50,000 to the Flood Mitigation Structure Maintenance Reserve

2018 Capital Project Summary

Council received their annual report an on those capital projects that were completed in 2018 and those that have been carried forward to 2010 as work in progress. Learn more about the Town’s capital projects at Projects

To review any of the staff reports included in this agenda package go to https://canmore.ca/documents/3250-2019-04-23-finance-committee-agenda

Today was Council’s committee of the whole meeting, which is the forum they use to hear briefing reports on administration’s various activities. Today Council heard an update on the Fire Hall Study and upcoming transportation projects.

Fire Hall Study

Canmore’s current fire hall was built in 1986, when 4,000 people lived here and tourism to the area was not as popular as it is now. With today’s population of up to 20,000 during peak visitation times, the fire hall is operating over capacity and the current location is vulnerable to traffic congestion, which directly impacts travel times. The Fire Hall Study, presented today for information, was undertaken to find the best option for expansion. The study recommends that the Town replace the existing facility with two new fire halls, an 8-bay hall in the Palliser area and a 4-bay hall in Three Sisters, with one constructed within the next four years and the other within the next 30 years, depending on population growth. Council will have the opportunity to decide on a building schedule this fall during budget review. You can read the study here: New Fire Hall

Transportation Project Updates

Administration provided updates on a number of projects and initiatives approved by Council to advance recommendations in the Integrated Parking Management Plan and the Integrated Parking Management Plan. These included projects related to transit, Railway Avenue, Palliser Trail, and Benchlands trail. You can read the plans and learn more about individual projects at Integrated Transportation Plan

Committee of the Whole Regular Features

Check out the meeting agenda package to read:

• Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors
• Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities
• Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration
• Bow Valley Regional Housing updates

You can also see a video of the presentations at Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos.

NEW! Tree Protection Bylaw

In 2011, the trees on Canmore’s public lands were valued at $250M. Until now, however, there has been no legislation to protect this valuable asset and developers and property owners have been able to remove public trees adjacent to their property with little recourse. The Tree Protection Bylaw is intended to protect public trees from removal and damage, as well as provide a means to permit removal of trees when necessary. Visit Protecting Canmore's Trees for more information.

Seat Replacement in the Alex Kaleta Arena

The seats in the Alex Kaleta are nearly 50 years old and are not scheduled for replacement as part of the current lifecycle project. An unexpected opportunity has come up for the Town to purchase spectator seats from the Edmonton Coliseum, which is currently being dismantled, for a grand total of $66K including delivery and installation. Canmore Minor Hockey is prepared to contribute $27K and is working with potential sponsors to contribute even more. The total Town contribution will be up to $39K, an amount much less that the $240K budgeted to replace the seats in 2024. To learn more about the recreation centre lifecycle project visit Canmore Recreation Centre

Residential Organics Diversion Pilot Starting Early

By coming to an agreement with the Town of Banff to allow the transfer of organic waste through Banff’s system, Canmore residential organics diversion pilot program is set to start a whole year earlier. This fall, residents will be able deposit organic waste in five locations around town.  For more information, visit Residential Food Waste Collection

Other approvals:

·         Supplementary Assessment Bylaw– to allow assessment of properties under development that have a construction completion date prior to October 1, 2019.

·         Downtown Business Improvement Area (BIA) Tax Rate Bylaw – to allow for the collection of taxes from businesses in the BIA to fund the organization’s annual budget.

·         Assessment Review Board Bylaw – to comply with regulations in the Municipal Government Act respecting assessment appeals. 

·         Parks Bylaw – to set out regulations around prohibited and permitted activities in Canmore’s parks.

·         Municipal Naming Policy – to provide direction for approving commemorative names for Town assets such as buildings and parks.

·         Three Sisters Land Transfer – to officially protect trails on Three Sisters land for long-term public access.

To read the reports in the meeting agenda package visit https://canmore.ca/documents/3184-2019-04-02-council-agenda-regular or watch the video here Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Peaks Landing Re-Zoning Passes Second Reading

Today, Council gave second reading to an amended bylaw that allows for development residential and accessory dwelling units on sites in Peaks of Grassi.  The amendment removes site 3 (with the rock outcrop) from the development and have it remain in the Urban Reserve District. The developer and the Canmore Community Housing Corporation have signed an agreement in principle that CCHC will purchase one of the sites to build 14 perpetually affordable housing units. Third reading of the bylaw is scheduled for May 7, 2019. For more information about the Peaks Landing development visit https://canmore.ca/municipal-services/residents-development-planning/public-engagement-information/peaks-landing.

Committee of the Whole

Once a month, Council holds a “committee of the whole” meeting to hear briefings from community groups and from administration.

Innovate Canmore
Brian McClure, president and CEO of Innovate Canmore, spoke to a written submission outlining the status of the current build-out of the Phase 1 technology incubator and accelerator business model and a summary feasibility assessment of the viability of establishing a Phase 2, 50,000+ sq ft Innovation and Technology Development Centre of Excellence in the community. For more information about Innovate Canmore, visit their website at https://www.innovatecanmore.com/

Banff Canmore Community Foundation
Bill Fisher, Executive Director of the Banff Canmore Community Foundation, spoke to a written report presenting information and findings from the organization's Vital Signs report. The presentation included an overview of the report's findings along with relevant community-specific data points. Mr. Fisher also updated Council on the current work of the foundation. For more information about the Banff Canmore Community Foundation, visit their website at https://www.banffcanmorecf.org/

Tourism Canmore Kananaskis
Justin Rousseau, Expedition Management, spoke to a written report presenting Tourism Canmore Kananaskis’s strategic plan. You can read the draft strategic plan by downloading the March 19 committee of the whole agenda package – see item B3.

2018 Protective Services and Fire-Rescue Year End Reports
Council was presented with 2018 statistics from the RCMP, bylaw services, the Police Committee, and fire rescue services.  To see the reports, download the March 19 committee of the whole agenda package and look for items D1 and D2.

2018 Municipal Development Plan Report
The Municipal Development Plan is a high-level planning document intended to provide general direction on how the town of Canmore should develop. This annual review explores what the MDP is asking of the Town, what goals are being met, and what areas will be worked on in the upcoming years. Read the 2018 update pdf here (1.51 MB) .

Committee of the Whole Regular Features
Check out the meeting agenda package to read:

• Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors
• Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities
• Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration
• Bow Valley Regional Housing updates

You can also see a video of the presentations at Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Borrowing Approved for Five Capital Projects

Council approved five bylaws authorizing debenture funding for 15-year terms for the following capital projects:

• Organics Diversion Program
• Lift Station 6 Lifecycle Replacement Construction
• South Bow River Loop Water Main Construction
• Bow Valley Trail Wastewater Upgrade Construction
• Bow Valley Trail Fire Flow Improvement Construction

 For more information about the Town’s capital projects visit https://canmore.ca/projects. 

New Score Clocks for the Recreation Centre

Local business Crossway Community Thrift has offered to pay the costs of replacing the aging score clock in the Alex Kaleta arena in return for the display of their organization’s logo on the score clocks in both the Alex Kaleta and the Thelma Crowe arenas. Council agreed to go ahead with the project, with the understanding that the “Sponsored by Can Bow Motors” sign will remain posted in the Thelma Crowe arena until the score clock there reaches the end of its life in 2026.

Council Appointments

·       Public members Tory Kendal, Joanne March, Christine de Soto, James Kendal, Richard Greaves, Reid Costley, Jeremy Elbourne, and Bryon Parlo were appointed to the Downtown Business Improvement Area (previously known as the Downtown Business Revitalization Zone) board of directors.

·       Michelle Vincent was appointed to the Community Grant Selection Committee.

·       Town administration members Jolene Noel and Sara Jones were appointed as Clerks to the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board.

Land Use Bylaw Amendment – Peaks Landing Direct Control District

Today Council debated second reading of a bylaw that would rezone a property in the Peaks of Grassi neighbourhood to allow for development of approximately 27 residential units and 13 accessory dwelling units. Council has received a large amount of public feedback on this proposal, including significant opposition voiced by residents, as well as several technical reports on matters including steep creek hazard and environmental impact. In order to have more time to consider the implications of passing or not passing the bylaw, Council postponed their decision on second reading to a March 19 meeting. For more information on the development application visit https://canmore.ca/municipal-services/residents-development-planning/public-engagement-information/peaks-landing. To see the input received at the January 29 public hearing visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos.

Cultural Master Plan Advisory Group

The Town is working with a consultant to develop a Cultural Master Plan for Canmore. The Cultural Master Plan is a 10-year vision and road map for the planning and delivery of arts and culture that advances participation in, the presence of, and support for culture in Canmore.  Today Council appointed one councillor and nine members of the public to participate in an advisory group that will assist the consultant with the development of the plan.  For more information about the project visit https://canmore.ca/projects/cultural-master-plan.

Lift Station 2 Project Changes

Lift stations are facilities designed to move wastewater from lower to higher elevations. Lift Station 2, located off Railway Avenue behind the train tracks, is currently being upgraded in accordance with the Town’s Utility Master Plan and has run into unexpected challenges with respect to high groundwater in the area. Administration requested that Council increase the budget for the project by just over $1M, and Council agreed to provide the funding from the Utility Reserve. For more information about the project visit Utility Operations.

Council also approved:

• A new policy to establish criteria to evaluate requests to install private entrance features in the municipal road right-of-way;
• An updated Public Participation policy;
• A reallocation of funds for Cougar Creek long-term mitigation; 
• An amendment to the Designated Officer Bylaw, adding the fire chief as a designated officer.
• To read the staff reports and watch a video of the meeting visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Committee of the Whole Meeting
Three Sisters Development Update

Three Sisters Mountain Village is currently working on two area structure plans (ASPs) to guide future development in Three Sisters Village and Smith Creek. Today they presented Council with the results of their latest public engagement initiative. Themes included affordability, wildlife, mobility, and commercial development. Three Sisters will continue providing opportunities for the public to provide input, and intend to present to the Committee of the Whole again in March to focus on the complexity and interrelated nature of the component within the two ASPs. For more information about the project visit https://canmore.ca/municipal-services/residents-development-planning/public-engagement-information/three-sisters

Mountain Creek Hazard Mitigation

After the 2013 floods, the Town created a Mountain Creek Hazard Mitigation Program to assess and mitigate the risk associated with Canmore's creeks.  Since the initial priority of implementing short-term mitigation in time for the 2014 run-off, the focus has been on long-term mitigation.  Several construction projects have been carried out on various creeks, and today Council heard an update on the progress that’s been made. They also heard a presentation from the consultant who recently completed the hazard and risk assessment for X, Y, and Z Creeks and Echo Creek.  To learn more about the Mountain Creek Hazard Mitigation program visit Mountain Creek Hazard Mitigation

Calgary-Bow Valley Mass Transit Feasibility Study

Five municipalities, the Town of Canmore, the Town of Banff, the Town of Cochrane, the City of Calgary, and Improvement District 9, have partnered to commission a study into the feasibility of mass transit services between Calgary and the Bow Valley. The study was presented to Council in an in camera session and is considered confidential until the municipalities jointly release the document in February 2019.

Committee of the Whole Regular Features

Check out the meeting agenda package at https://canmore.ca/documents/3023-2018-12-11-cow-agenda to read:

• Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors
• Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities
• Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration
• You can also see a video of the presentations at Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Peaks Landing Land Use Bylaw Amendment

Council has received an application from a private landowner to amend the Land Use Bylaw by rezoning vacant lands in the Peaks of Grassi area to allow for development of approximately 27 residential units and up to 13 accessory dwelling units. A public hearing for this Land Use Bylaw amendment is scheduled for Tuesday, January 2019 at 5 p.m. For more information visit https://canmore.ca/municipal-services/residents-development-planning/public-engagement-information/peaks-landing

Planning Board Updates

Council amended the bylaws authoring the Development Authority and the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board. Key changes include allowing for per diem compensation to board members and the authorization to live stream and video record public portions of the meetings. The new bylaws will be available soon on Subdivision & Development Appeal Board (SDAB)  and Canmore Planning Commission

Borrowing Considered for Five Capital Projects

Council gave first reading to five bylaws intended to authorize debenture funding for the following projects: 

• Organics Diversion Program
• Lift Station 6 Lifecycle Replacement Construction
• South Bow River Loop Water Main Construction
• Bow Valley Trail Wastewater Upgrade Construction
• Bow Valley Trail Fire Flow Improvement Construction 

These bylaws will be advertised in the Outlook on January 10 and January 17. Second and third readings are scheduled for March 5.

Other Council Approvals

 ·         Procedural Bylaw updated to allow for longer regular meetings.

 ·         Sustainability Screening Policy amended by removing the deadline for revisions requested by Council.

·         Exchange of an unused road right-of-way in Three Sisters for an equal amount of developable land.

·         Request that CCHC remit any funds received from the eventual sale of units in Mountain Haven Cooperative Homes to the Town.

Information Items 

·         The 2018 Report to the Community is an annual report detailing progress made towards Council’s strategic priorities. This year’s report can be found here https://canmore.ca/documents/guiding-documents/3063-2018-report-to-the-community 

·         The All-In Project is an initiative intended to support the mental health of first responders. 

·         A project to draft a Cultural Master Plan for the Town of Canmore has commenced with the hiring of a consultant. This project will include significant stakeholder engagement, so watch for upcoming opportunities to participate. 

To read any of the reports in the council agenda package visit https://canmore.ca/documents/3054-2019-01-08-council-agenda-regular or you can watch a video of any of the presentations from https://canmore.ca/town-hall/town-council/council-minutes-agendas  

Multi-year Budget Approved

Council has approved a 4-year operating plan and 6-year capital plan, as well as detailed operating and capital budgets for 2019 and 2020. The 2019 budget includes a 4.9% net new tax increase, and the 2020 budget is at 4.6%. For more information visit Budget & Financial Information

During the meeting, Council added $413K for the Lions Park Tennis Court expansion if a grant is received to help fund the construction project.

Increases to water and sewer rates and to solid waste disposal rates were also approved. These utilities are funded by users, not through municipal taxes, and increases are related to increasing operational and capital costs. Additional funds collected for solid waste services will fund an employee to deal with contamination levels in recycling bins and an organics diversion program slated to begin in 2020.

New Meeting Schedule in 2019

Just a reminder that, starting with their first business meeting on January 8, Council is moving to daytime meetings that will start at 9 a.m. Visit Council Meetings to see the full meeting schedule.

Bow Valley Regional Housing Update

Ian Wilson, CAO of Bow Valley Regional Housing, provided Council with a verbal update on the organization’s activities and plans. Highlights included an overview of 2018 activity, phase 2 of the “This is Home” project, and the needs study currently underway. Mr. Wilson also spoke to expectations around the 2019 municipal requisition. You can see the presentation by watching the Dec. 11 meeting webcast at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3tmsrSkEDheQLgB0Ii_vBg/videos 

Homeless to Housing Survey

In May of 2018 the Homeless to Housing Coalition carried out a survey to better understand who in the Bow Valley is experiencing, or is at risk of experiencing, homelessness. The resulting report, Bow Valley Spring 2018 Homeless Estimation Count, has already been presented at two public information sessions and today was presented to Council for information. If you’d like to know more or read the report, visit Homeless 2 Housing Coalition 

Committee of the Whole Regular Features

Check out the meeting agenda package at https://canmore.ca/documents/3023-2018-12-11-cow-agenda to read:

• Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors
• Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities
• Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration
• Bow Valley Regional Housing Updates

Council Accepts Climate Action Plan

The Climate Action Plan sets out our community and corporate greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories and reduction targets, and identifies actions intended to achieve these targets. You can read more about the action plan here Climate Action Plan

Council Remuneration Policy Updated

The Council Remuneration Policy was adjusted so that a councillor’s basic rate of pay covers up to 16 hours of regular meetings each month. Councillors are now eligible to claim a per diem for attending regular meetings in excess of 16 hours per month. This change is intended to address the elimination of four-hour limits on council meetings. Visit Policies to read the remuneration policy. To learn more about Council’s meeting schedule visit Council Meetings

Council also approved:

A clarification to the Budget Amendments Policy, and two agreement renewals with the MD of Bighorn: Family and Community Support Services and Bow Valley Parent Link.

To read the agenda package for this meeting or have a look at the webcast, visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos 

Land Use Bylaw Receives First Reading

The Land Use Bylaw is being revised, and the changes being proposed are based on regulations in the Municipal Government Act (MGA), guidance from the Municipal Development Plan, Council direction, as well as community feedback. The proposed bylaw uses the framework of the existing LUB but will make it easier to understand by improving wording, updating regulations, modifying dated sections, and introducing new regulations. The changes are significant enough to warrant a complete rewrite of the LUB - rather than a large-scale amendment. Council approved first reading of the draft bylaw and scheduled a public hearing at 5 p.m. on Feb. 5, 2019. Details of the proposed changes, public engagement, and next steps can be found at Land Use Bylaw

Municipal Development Plan (MDP) Amendment Steep Creek Hazard

To reflect consistency with the regulations in the proposed LUB, an MDP amendment to update regulations for Steep Creek Hazards is required.  Council approved first reading of the amendment and scheduled a public hearing at 5 p.m. on Feb. 5, 2019.  These public hearings will run concurrently. Details on this proposed amendment can be found under item f2 here https://canmore.ca/documents/2960-2018-11-20-council-agenda-regular

Library Endowment with the Banff Canmore Community Foundation

Local residents have approached the Banff Canmore Community Foundation about providing an endowment to the Canmore Library in support of its programs.  As libraries are a municipal service, Council will provide a letter of support approve the agreement in principle between the donor and the Banff Canmore Community Foundation.  

Today Council met as the committee of the whole to hear the following briefings from members of the public and administration.

Three Sisters Mountain Village (TSMV) Public Engagement Report

TSMV owns 80% of the remaining developable land in Canmore, so residents of Canmore are very interested in hearing about the vision for the development and providing their input.  Accordingly, TSMV has initiated a community engagement plan and attended a wide variety of community events to seek input on their draft vision and principles.  Today, representatives of TSMV provided Council with a summary of what they’ve heard so far. To learn more about the proposed development visit https://canmore.ca/municipal-services/residents-development-planning/public-engagement-information/three-sisters

Organics Diversion

Administration reported to Council that they have explored several options for diverting organic materials from Canmore’s waste stream, with the goal of developing a program that strikes a balance between reducing the Town’s carbon footprint, meeting community expectations, and managing cost. The option that best meets the goal is to implement a full commercial program and a pilot residential program. Administration has recommended this option in the 2019 – 2024 budget currently under consideration by the Finance Committee. For more information visit Residential Food Waste Collection

Human Use Management and Human –Wildlife Coexistence

Administration reported on the work done to advance the recommendations found in the Human Resource Management Report and the Human-Wildlife Coexistence Report including removal of crabapple trees and shepherdia, enforcement of off-leash dog regulations, and participation in related roundtable committees. For more information visit Human - Wildlife Coexistence in the Bow Valley

Canmore Library Update

The president of the Canmore Library Board provided Council with an update on the board’s strategic plan. You can learn more about the library at http://www.canmorelibrary.ab.ca/

Committee of the Whole Regular Features

Check out the meeting agenda package at https://canmore.ca/documents/2954-2018-11-13-cow-agenda to read:

• Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors
• Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities
• Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration
• Bow Valley Regional Housing Updates

2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Bid Support

Council voted 6 to 1, with Councillor McCallum in opposition, to support Calgary’s potential bid on the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Games and agree to provide the required IOC Guarantees on the condition that satisfactory terms are reached with other orders of government for funding support sufficient to cover the operational costs of Games delivery in the Town of Canmore. Council expressed their support for the Games citing the legacy opportunities for Canmore to gain 242 units of Perpetually Affordable Housing, additional flood mitigation, and as a result of hosting the Paralympics, improve our accessibility. For more information visit https://canmore.ca/projects/2026-winter-olympics-bid

Town of Canmore Organizational Review Final Report

Council heard the results of an organizational review carried out on Town administration over the last several months. The review found that the Town has reached the limit of its current administrative model, and the final report recommends that a business transformation initiative be undertaken across the organization to improve structure, capacity, and processes to better deliver day-to-day operations and service to the public as the volume and complexity of work increases. To read the report, see item G-2 in the November 6 agenda package: https://canmore.ca/documents/2939-2018-11-06-council-agenda-regular

Rezoning at 530 4th Street

Council granted a request from the owner of 530 4th Street to rezone the property from R1 (residential single family detached) to R2 (residential family two-unit).

Spring Creek Mountain Village Public District Amendments

Council voted unanimously to amend the Spring Creek Mountain Village area redevelopment plan by adjusting the boundaries of a public use district in Stage 2 so it matches the boundaries of future subdivisions.

To read any of the reports in the meeting agenda package or watch the webcast, visit https://canmore.ca/town-hall/town-council/council-minutes-agendas

Cannabis in Canmore

Council has passed a bylaw that prohibits the smoking or vaping of cannabis in public places and hotels. Council also directed administration to return by October 2020 with an update on the public cannabis consumption ban and if further options to loosen the regulations should be considered. Anyone who is authorized by a medical document may smoke or vape in public places allowed by provincial legislation, but not in hotels. The person needs to be carrying their authorization with them. For more information visit Cannabis in Canmore.

Borrowing to Build an Olympic and Paralympic Athlete Village

Council will be deciding on November 6 whether or not to support the Calgary 2026 Olympic bid. A key part of the decision is understanding how Canmore will fund related projects such as the proposed Canmore Athlete’s Village, which would be converted to affordable housing after the games. The total cost of the project is estimated at $116M with the Town’s contribution set at $10M. As part of the Bid process, the Town is being asked to deliver the project and guarantee its construction in time for the Games. The Town will need to borrow approximately $66M in order to meet this commitment which would take us beyond our legislated debt limit, and so requires approval by the Minister of Municipal Affairs. Tonight Council voted to send this request for borrowing approval to the Minister. For more information about the Olympic bid visit https://canmore.ca/projects/2026-winter-olympics-bid.

Spring Creek Mountain Village Public Use District Adjustments

Spring Creek has applied for an adjustment to boundaries of a Public Use District in stage 2 of their development so that it aligns with the boundaries of future parcels. The total park space will remain the same.  A public hearing is scheduled for November 6 at 5 p.m. More information will be available Thursday in the Rocky Mountain Outlook.

Zoning Change at 530 4th Street

The owners at 530 4^th Street have applied to change the zoning of their home from R1 (residential single family detached) to R2 (residential family two-unit), which would align with the zoning of the properties immediately next door to the west and across the road to the south. As above, a public hearing is scheduled for November 6 at 5 p.m. and more information will be available Thursday in the Rocky Mountain Outlook.

For more information

To read the staff reports in the meeting agenda package or watch a video of the meeting, visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos.

Fare Free Transit Trial

To help address traffic congestion and parking this past summer, and as part of integrated parking management, Council approved a pilot project to provide fare free-transit on the Canmore local service for summer 2018. The pilot demonstrated that ridership increases of 50% can be expected when service is provided fare-free. Administration will be bringing recommendations for next steps forward as part of the budget process. For more information you can read the staff briefing – just click on the agenda package link at the end of this update and look for item D-1.

Community Group Updates

Council heard updates from:

• Canmore Museum & Geoscience Centre
• artsPlace

You can view their presentations in the agenda package or watch a video of the presentations at https://canmore.ca/town-hall/town-council/council-minutes-agendas

Committee of the Whole Regular Features

Check out the meeting agenda package at https://canmore.ca/documents/2899-2018-10-09-cow-agenda to read:

• Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors
• Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities
• Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration
• Bow Valley Regional Housing Updates

Municipal Development Plan Amendment Third Party Environmental Impact Statement

Council approved an amendment to the MDP that removes a requirement for third party reviews of Environmental Impact Statements for projects initiated by the Town. This changes removes a redundancy and extra expense, since - if the Town hires both the consultant to prepare the EIS and the consultant to review the work of the first consultant - the second consultant cannot be considered a third party.

Olympic Games Public Hearing on October 30

Council will host a public hearing on October 30 beginning at 5 p.m. to hear the community’s opinion on this question: “Is it prudent for the Town of Canmore to participate in the City of Calgary’s bid to co-host the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Games?” Anyone can speak at the hearing – no advance booking is required. Written submissions should be sent to the municipal clerk at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. For more information visit https://canmore.ca/projects/2026-winter-olympics-bid.

Three Sisters Preparing New Area Structure Plans

Three Sisters Mountain Village intends to develop new area structure plans for Three Sisters Village (Resort Centre) and Smith Creek. Today Council approved a Terms of Reference to set out the terms under which the area structure plans will be developed. The applicant is planning to complete each ASP in seven stages, ending with Council consideration of bylaws to approve the ASPs –  in the spring of 2019 for Three Sisters Village (Resort Centre) and the end of 2019 for Smith Creek. The public engagement process will be led by Three Sisters Mountain Village. To read the Terms of Reference, see item G2A in the council agenda (link below).

Council Pay Adjustment Approved

Since 1999, Alberta councillors have received a tax exemption on one-third of their total remuneration. The 2017 federal budget eliminated this exemption so now the entire remuneration of councillors is taxable. In order to prevent a decrease in net pay, Council approved increasing the basic rate of pay and per diem compensation by the amount necessary to result in a near-neutral impact. To see details about this increase see item G3 in the council agenda (link below).

Finance Committee Approvals

A Finance Committee meeting was held directly after the regular council meeting. The Finance Committee approved:

• The year-to-date financial statements
• 2019-2020 master fee schedule

They also reviewed the capital project progress report and the 2019 – 2024 budget schedule.

For more information

To see the agenda packages and videos of both the regular council meeting and the finance committee meeting, visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Municipal Development Plan Amendment Third Party Environmental Impact Statement

Council voted to postpone (until Oct. 2) second and third reading of a proposed change to the Municipal Development Plan (MD) which would remove the Town’s requirement to have an additional review of Town-initiated projects which require an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).  The amendment to the MDP would remove the requirement for third party reviews only on Town projects; third party reviews of EISs would still be required on developer-initiated projects.

Mountain Haven Cooperative Homes Unit Acquisition

Council approved a transfer of $4,245,000 to Canmore Community Housing Corporation (CCHC) from the Perpetually Affordable Housing (PAH) reserve to acquire 17 rental units from Mountain Haven Cooperative Homes (MHCH).  MHCH is a cooperative housing development that provides 44 affordable housing units in the Town of Canmore. These units are comprised of 27 individually owned equity units and 17 rental units collectively owned by the cooperative. Due to a myriad of historical issues, MHCH is facing foreclosure on the 17 non-equity units. The transfer from the PAH reserve will cover the purchase price of the units, the reserve fund loan and the closing costs for CCHC to acquire the units from MHCH and prevent the lender from enacting foreclosure and taking possession of the 17 non-equity units.

For more information …

To read any of the reports in the Sept. 25 meeting agenda package or see a video of the meeting visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Calgary 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Hosting Plan Concept

CEO Mary Moran from the Calgary 2026 Bid Corporation (BidCo) presented council with the corporation’s Draft Hosting Plan Concept for the 2026 Winter Games. This document provides a framework for evaluating legacy and hosting investments and opportunities that come with hosting a successful Olympic event. Among other things, it outlines the sport and venue concept, the leadership and operational structure, and the financial plan. The Draft Concept is intended to help government partners, like the Town of Canmore, with decision-making and development of a Multi-Party Agreement, which is an agreement that sets out roles, responsibilities, and cost-sharing of the partners.

After the BidCo representatives made their presentation, the Town’s CAO presented council with a report detailing the concept for Canmore’s possible participation in 2026 Winter Games and analyzing how the Hosting Plan aligns with the Town’s strategic priorities.

For more details visit https://canmore.ca/projects/2026-winter-olympics-bid and for all documents presented during Council meetings, visit https://canmore.ca/projects/2026-winter-olympics-bid/background/background

Civic Centre Server Room Relocation

The main server for the Town of Canmore is located on the ground floor of the Civic Centre, making it vulnerable to water damage from a number of sources. In 2014, flooding from a water main break threatened the server and since then, plans have been underway to move the server room to a safer location on the second floor. The project has been tendered twice, with bids both times coming in over-budget. Administration does not believe delaying the project any further will result in better pricing. Council accepted administration’s analysis and agreed to increase the budget for the project from $200K to $300K.

For more information …

To read any of the reports in the meeting agenda package or see a video of the meeting visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Community Profile Report – Alberta Early Development Instrument

The Early Development Instrument, or EDI, is a national set of metrics that Alberta Health uses to track five key areas of early childhood development in communities across Alberta. Today our supervisor of Bow Valley Parent Link presented Council with the EDI data collected on children in the Bow Valley. This information is used by the Bow Valley Early Childhood Development Coalition, a group that includes representatives from schools, community groups, daycares, day-homes, Alberta Health Services, and municipalities, to create strategic plans to address any areas of concern. A strategic planning summit is schedule to take place in October 2018. For more information you can read the staff briefing and the Bow Valley Community Profile report – just click on the agenda package link at the end of this update and look for item D-1.

Draft Climate Action Plan

The Town’s Climate Action Plan updates our community and corporate greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories, updates our GHG reduction targets, and identifies a number of actions aimed at achieving the reduction targets. The Town’s sustainability coordinator presented the draft action plan for Council’s consideration and feedback, and plans to ask Council to accept it for planning purposes at their next business meeting. For more information on the topic, visit https://canmore.ca/residents/stewardship-of-the-environment/climate-change-adaptation-plan

Bow Valley SPCA Update

Council heard a presentation from Joseph Potts, who is a member of the board of directors for the Bow Valley SPCA. He talked about the organizations’ accomplishments since they opened in 2007 and the benefits they provide to Canmore residents. There was no written report provided, but you can watch Mr. Pott’s presentation by clicking on the webcast link for the September 11 meeting: Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Committee of the Whole Regular Features

Check out the meeting agenda package at https://canmore.ca/documents/2847-2018-09-11-cow-agenda to read:

• Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors
• Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities
• Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration

Development Permit Approval for Apartments at 120 Kananaskis Way

Council approved a development permit to build a 159-unit apartment building at 120 Kananaskis Way, kitty-corner to the Coast Hotel and adjacent to the TransCanada Highway. The building will contain only rental suites and is being designed to address the need for more affordable rental opportunities in Canmore. For more information visit https://canmore.ca/municipal-services/residents-development-planning/public-engagement-information/kananaskis-way-residential-rental-apartment

Environmental Impact Statements – Change to Third Party Review Requirements

When the Town’s Municipal Development Plan (MDP) requires a person to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) before their development application is considered, it also requires the Town to contract a qualified professional to conduct a third party independent review of the applicant’s EIS. What the MDP does not address are situations where the Town is initiating a project. In the current scenario, whenever the Town hires a consultant to prepare an EIS before a project is approved, the Town must also hire a second consultant to provide a third party review of the first. Since there is considerable cost involved in conducting a third party review, and the first consultant is already hired to represent the interests of the Town, Council is considering removing the third party review requirement for Town-initiated projects. There will be a public hearing on this matter on September 25 at 5 p.m.

Assessment Services Changes

Council voted unanimously to establish an in-house assessment services branch within the Finance Department. Historically, this work has been contracted out, as Canmore assessment services were not required full-time.  Now that Canmore has grown, the workload requires at least two full-time employees.  If all goes as planned, we should be welcoming a new assessment service supervisor this November and an assessment support person next spring.

Council also approved:

·        A new bylaw that delegates authority for records retention and destruction to the CAO;

·        Changes to the Designated Officers Bylaw to include new positions and MGA requirements;

·        Three new public members for the assessment review board; and

·        A funding collaboration agreement with Innovate Canmore to allow the organization to apply for Calgary Foundation grant funding.

To read any reports in the meeting agenda package or see a video of the meeting visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Peaks Landing Fee Waiver

A bylaw that rezoned Peaks Landing (located in the Peaks of Grassi neighourhood) to allow for residential development was recently declared invalid by the Court of Queen’s Bench. The owners of the property have notified administration that they intend to reapply for the same land use amendment and have requested that the application fees be waived. Council declined the request as this application will require significant work and attention from administration.

Larch Ice Rink Budget Increase

The bids to complete work on the Larch outdoor rink replacement came in over budget due to: site work to move it to a better location, enhanced fencing, addition of pickleball footings, and unforeseen tariffs on materials.  Council approved transferring $145K from the capital reserve to boost the existing $540K budgeted for the project, and work will begin soon to have the rink ready for this winter. For more information visit Winter Activities & Outdoor Ice.

Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Program

PACE is a program being developed by the Province of Alberta to allow home and building owners to borrow 100% of financing required to upgrade the energy and resource performance of their buildings, and pay back the amount borrowed through their municipal property tax bill. Today Council approved submitting an expression of interest to let the Province know they will consider participation in the PACE program once the program details are available.

Benchlands Trail Pilot Project

Over the last several months, administration has carried out a pilot program to see if modest intersection improvement on Benchlands Trail would be sufficient to decrease vehicle speeds to posted limits, improve safety and comfort for active transportation users, and reduce vehicle line-ups. The pilot has shown that modest improvements are not enough to achieve the goals, so staff will be returning to Council in October to recommend next steps.  To keep up to date on the project visit Background - Transportation in Canmore.

Bow Valley Human Wildlife Coexistence

The Human-Wildlife Coexistence Roundtable, which is made up of reps from local municipal, provincial, and federal governments, recently formed a technical committee to produce a report to identify the current state of human-wildlife coexistence and recommend practical measure to reduce human-wildlife conflict and preserve the viability of wildlife in the Bow Valley. Council accepted the report for planning purposes, and you can read it at Human - Wildlife Coexistence in the Bow Valley

To read any of the staff reports or watch a video of the council meeting, visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Today Council met as the Committee of the Whole to hear the following briefings:

Neighbourhood Development Program

The Community Social Development (CSD) department is working to build a “livable community” in Canmore through the development of neighbourhoods that are connected, inclusive, and family-friendly. With the help of provincial grant funding, CSD is implementing six initiatives, including the Neighbourhood Connector Block Party Trailer and the Do Good in Your ‘Hood program. For more information about the CSD strategic plan, check out Tools for the Future at https://canmore.ca/documents/fcss/1920-community-social-development-strategy.

Public Engagement on Proposed 2018 Land Use Bylaw Amendments

The Town is exploring potential changes to the Land Use Bylaw, specifically in the areas of street life, housing, building, and land.  Phase 1 of an extensive public engagement process has been carried out, and today the results were presented to Council. To learn more about the proposed amendments and read the public engagement summary of results visit Land Use Bylaw.

Public Consumption of Cannabis and Tobacco

The public consumption of cannabis will be legal on October 17, 2018. The Town needs to decide how to approach the regulation of cannabis consumption in public spaces, plus it’s a good time to decide whether or not any changes need to be made to the current Smoking Control Bylaw. Today Council was briefed on three options: follow provincial regulations only, further restrict smoking and vaping in parks, outdoor bus stops, and hotel rooms, or completely ban smoking and vaping of cannabis in all public places. This was a briefing only – the actual decision will be made at an upcoming council meeting. For more information visit Cannabis in Canmore.

Council Remuneration Change

Since 1999, legislation allows council members to receive a tax exemption on one-third of their earnings. This is intended to recognize administrative costs council members personally incur as a result of their elected position. The 2017 federal budget has eliminated this exemption, which will result in a decrease to net pay.  Administration is recommending that the gross salaries of councilors be increased so that their take-home pay remains the same.  To learn more you can read the staff report presented at today’s meeting – see item D4: https://canmore.ca/documents/2783-2018-08-14-cow-agenda

Committee of the Whole Regular Features

Check out the meeting agenda package to read:

• Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors
• Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities
• Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration
• Bow Valley Regional Housing Updates

You can read written submissions in the agenda package here: https://canmore.ca/documents/2650-2018-06-12-cow-agenda or watch a video of the presentations at Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos.

Hot Tub Patio at Lamphouse Hotel

Council approved a development permit for the hot tub patio at the Lamphouse Hotel. The new hot tub patio replaces the existing patio space in the rear of the previous Bow Valley Motel that is currently occupied by a concrete slab and lawn chairs. Access to the patio is facing towards the interior of the Lamphouse Hotel and is accessed via an existing staircase. More information including drawings can be found in the agenda package https://canmore.ca/documents/2656-2018-06-19-council-agenda-package under G1a2

Summer Fare Free Canmore Local Transit

To help address traffic congestion and parking during the busy summer season, Council approved a pilot project to provide fare free transit on the Canmore local service from June 29 through September 3, 2018. Data from other popular tourist communities shows that providing fare free transit can significantly increase ridership, with corresponding positive impacts on traffic and parking. The pilot will allow the Town to better understand potential rider demand and usage patterns as well as the impact that fare free transit can have on transportation behaviours and mode share. Those who have pre-purchased transit passes over the trial period will have their pass expiry extended by two months. For more information, schedules, and a live bus location map visit http://roamtransit.com/schedules-routes/canmore-local-route-five/

Integrated Parking Management Plan

The 2018 Parking Study demonstrated that although parking can be hard to find at certain times and in certain locations, it is generally not fully utilized. Additionally, the study found that the vast majority of open space in the Town Centre is dedicated to roads and parking, and that there is a lack of public space for ‘people’ parking, and a demand for additional bicycle parking. An increase in parking in the Town Centre will worsen existing traffic congestion challenges by encouraging more vehicle trips and it is expensive in terms of land costs, and the maintenance and management costs associated with building additional spaces. Council approved the Integrated Parking Management Plan for planning purposes, and you can read a copy of it here Integrated Parking Management

2019 – 2022 Council Strategic Plan

In addition to providing high quality services to the residents of Canmore, the Town also looks to the future to think strategically about our community and the lives of our residents and visitors. With the future of the town’s citizens and business in mind, Council has prepared this strategic plan to guide them for the next four years. This plan is a key reference tool for administration in guiding decision making, providing useful information for budgeting, and communicating strategic priorities to the community. You can read the plan here https://canmore.ca/documents/guiding-documents/2677-2019-2022-council-strategic-plan

Investigator – Code of Conduct for Elected Officials

An investigator processes complaints received from individuals who witness or experience conduct by a council member which they believe to be in contravention of the Code of Conduct for Elected Officials Bylaw. This includes determining if the complaint meets the criteria for processing, conducting an investigation, providing mediation where appropriate, and making recommendations to Council when necessary. Council must appoint a person to act as the Investigator who must be in place by July 23, 2018. Council appointed Barbara McNeil. To find out more about the duties of Investigator as set out in the Code of Conduct, visit Code of Conduct for Elected Officials

Community Event Policy Update

The Community Event Policy is intended to give staff a framework for making fair decisions about approving and charging fees for community events and associated road closures. This was Council’s chance to ask questions and give input on the policy before it comes back to them for approval on July 3. For more information you can read the staff report and draft policy by checking out item D1 in the meeting agenda package here: https://canmore.ca/documents/2650-2018-06-12-cow-agenda

Transportation and Parking

There are increased travel and parking demands on Canmore’s roads and neighourhoods. Today, Council got an advance look at two major plans intended to address these demands – the Integrated Transportation Plan and the Integrated Parking Management Plan. The plans outline current and future parking and congestion issues and recommend strategies to manage challenges. If you are interested in the future of traffic and parking in Canmore, check out the reports on the webpages Integrated Parking Management and Background - Transportation in Canmore.  The Integrated Parking Management Plan and the Integrated Transportation Plan will be coming back for Council’s official approval on June 19 and July 3, respectively.

Community Group Updates

Council heard updates from:

·        Calgary Region Airshed Zone (CRAZ)

·        Canmore Public Library

·        Marigold Library Services

·        EPCOR

You can read written submissions in the agenda package here: https://canmore.ca/documents/2650-2018-06-12-cow-agenda or watch a video of the presentations at Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos.

Committee of the Whole Regular Features

Check out the meeting agenda package to read:

• Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors
• Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities
• Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration
• Bow Valley Regional Housing Updates

Cannabis Retail Locations Approved

Cannabis retail stores will be permitted in most commercial districts where liquor stores are allowed, subject to approvals by the Town and the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission. Council restricted hours of operation to between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. As well, cannabis retail stores will be required to maintain visual interest in storefront windows adjacent to sidewalks. Since provincial regulations encourage retailers to screen their windows to restrict visibility into the stores, Council made this change to make sure windows are not simply made opaque. For more information about cannabis in Canmore visit Cannabis in Canmore.

Council Declines to Purchase Creekside Land for Downtown Park

The owners of three riverside lots tucked away at 630 10 Street approached the Town with an offer to purchase their property for $1.2M plus a tax receipt for $365K, with the condition that it be turned into a municipal park.  The property has been in the hands of one family for over 60 years, and as a result is surrounded by mature trees and has a park-like setting. Council declined the offer, opting instead to save for future expenditures related to transportation and intercept parking initiatives.

Explore 2026 Principles Adopted

Council was presented with guiding principles intended to guide decision-makers as the Town considers participating in a potential bid for the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The principles were developed through public engagement activities and through Council’s strategic planning. For more information visit https://canmore.ca/projects/2026-winter-olympics-bid/community-engagement

Mountain Haven will be Managed by CCHC

Over the last year, CCHC, Mountain Haven Cooperative Homes, and the Town have been meeting to address a financial crisis at Mountain Haven. A detailed execution plan has been developed that will see Mountain Haven transition from a cooperative to a condominium corporation, sell its rental units to pay off debt, and achieve “qualified title” for all units. In order to fund the plan, Council approved a transfer of $250K from the PAH reserve to CCHC. CCHC will now operate Mountain Haven as a PAH development.

Canmore Rec Centre Lifecycle Maintenance Project

Last year, detailed cost estimates for the lifecycle maintenance project at the rec centre came in at $3-$4M over the $9.5M project budget. In February Council approved some significant modifications and reductions to the project scope in an effort to keep it within budget, including a controversial decision not to replace the central staircase at a cost of $430,000. Final tenders are now in, and even with the reduced scope, prices remain higher than the approved budget. Tonight Council approved a budget increase of $2.1M, with funding to come from municipal reserve (MR) reserves, as they recognize the importance of advancing this project without further delays. Administration will continue to pursue both cost savings and additional funding sources. For more information about the project and FAQs, visit Canmore Recreation Centre

Rooftop Solar in Alberta

Council heard a presentation from a group of University of Calgary students affiliated with Canadian Energy Systems Analysis Research.  These students partnered with the Town to create a model to help understand the potential of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Alberta by maximizing the installation of rooftop solar units to general electricity. You can watch the presentation by clicking the May 15 webcast link here:  Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos. You can also learn more about Canmore’s solar incentive program at Solar Incentive Program

2018 Property Taxes

The 2018 budget called for 3.7% municipal property tax increase. This net increase has been reduced to 2.9% because of additional taxes being generated from growth.  The impact of this increase on municipal taxes, per $100,000 of assessed value, is as follows:

When we add in provincial education taxes and the seniors’ requisition, the increase looks like this (for every $100,000 of assessed value):

To learn more about Canmore property taxes visit Property Tax

Additional items:

Council:

·        accepted the request to reduce the number of signatures required for petition as information only, and take no additional action at this time;

·        directed administration to negotiate favourable terms of purchase for the lands at 630 10 Street (for the purposes of building a park) and return to Council for a decision;

·        approved a playground replacement in Three Sisters funded entirely by parent fundraising; and

·        reduced the scope of rehabilitation and enhancement project in the laneway between 6 and 7 Avenues (next to the Civic Centre) to pavement patching only.

To read any of the reports in the meeting agenda package visit https://canmore.ca/documents/2596-2018-05-15-council-agenda-regular

Question Period

A question from the public was submitted in advance, and asked a number of questions regarding the Canmore Recreation Centre lifecycle maintenance project. Answers to the questions can be found here: Canmore Recreation Centre

Delegation

Dieter Remppel appeared before Council as a delegation and asked if Council would consider a bylaw, as is now allowed per the recently amended Municipal Government Act, to reduce the requirement of signatures from 10% of population for petitioning purposes considering that only eligible electors can be petitioners, and that number varies from municipality to municipality.  

Water Utility Rehabilitation Fund Adjustment

Due to unforeseen utility operations challenges, mostly more than expected frozen services this winter and an issue at the Waste Water Treatment Plant, Council has approved to increase to 2018 operating budget to cover the overages by increasing the Rehabilitation fund and reducing the budgeted transfer to the reserve for water utility.

Canmore RCMP Multi Year Financial Plan

Council approved the Canmore Municipal Detachment Multi Year Financial Plan for planning purposes. The Town and the RCMP are required to meet on an annual basis to prepare a multi-year financial plan that covers things such as the numbers of positions required for the detachment, staffing resources required to support the RCMP, accommodation, and equipment. It is important to note that currently the town pays for 70% of the contracted policing costs, but if the population exceeds 15,000 residents in the 2021 census, the town will be responsible for 90% of the policing costs starting in 2022. This cost, in 2018 figures would represent an approximate increase of $660,000 for the same level of service. Administration will provide a plan to address this increase as part of the 2019/2020 budget process.

Wildfire Mitigation Strategy

To ensure residents and visitors are safe from fire events, wildfire mitigation has been occurring for the past 15 years.  The updated strategy provides a road map for future FireSmart activities such as vegetation management, public education, legislation, and emergency planning.  An updated hazard assessment and wildfire maps can be found in the strategy here: https://canmore.ca/documents/fire-hall/2569-wildfire-mitigation-strategy-2018 

Photo Radar Review

Another way to keep residents and visitors safe is to manage traffic speed by providing photo radar.  Council supports the philosophy that photo radar has contributed to the safety of the community throughout the years because the data shows photo radar changes behavior and slows people down. They decided an RFP will be issued to continue to provide photo radar services for a four-year contract, as the resources for this service are better provided by a contractor than by internal staff. More information on Canmore’s photo radar, including information about the projects funded by photo radar revenues, can be found here: Photo Radar

Living with Wildlife Short Film

Living with Wildlife is a 25-minute documentary illustrating the culture around living with wildlife in the Bow Valley.  Filmmaker Leanne Allison came to Council to thank them again for their initial support and to provide an update on the film. It has been shown at numerous mountain film festivals around the world and translated into different languages. The Calgary Foundation has provided a grant to create a microsite and make it easier to view the film online and on mobile platforms. Future plans include an idea to have scenes from the film projected onto trees as a novel way to draw attention to the film and reinforce the culture of living with wildlife.  To see the film visit http://www.wildsmart.ca/news/lwwmovie/

Protective Services Year End Reports

Council was presented with 2017 statistics from emergency management, fire-rescue, bylaw services, RCMP, and the Canmore Police Committee. Highlights from 2017 include: the 40 members that form the part time component of the team contributed a total of 3,892 hours of service to and responded to 278 calls for response; bylaw services has increased their presence in parks and on trails, and in the town centre to addressing parking congestion issues; and total criminal code offences for the local detachment increased by 1% between 2016 (1,183) and 2017 (1,199). The five year period since 2013 increased 21%.  To read the full reports, see item D1 at https://canmore.ca/documents/2586-2018-05-08-cow-agenda

Explore 2026 Public Engagement

As part of the work the Town is carrying out to decide whether or not Canmore should participate in Calgary’s potential bid for the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Games, administration carried out a 2-phase public engagement project. Today Council was presented with the results of phase 2, as well as the Foundation Statement and 9 Principles that resulted from the public input. To learn more about the Canmore’s Explore 2026 Olympic Bid investigation, visit https://canmore.ca/projects/2026-winter-olympics-bid

Committee of the Whole Regular Features

Check out the meeting agenda package at https://canmore.ca/documents/2586-2018-05-08-cow-agenda to read:

·        Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors

·        Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities

·        Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration

·        Bow Valley Regional Housing Updates

On April 24 Council met as the Finance Committee to hear a report from the Town’s auditor on the 2017 financial statements, to allocate the 2017 surplus and to start talking about 2018 property tax rates.

Consolidated Financial Statements

The Town’s 2017 consolidated financial statements were audited by an external third party, Avail LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants. You can see the statements, as well as statements from previous years, at Budget & Financial Information

2017 Operating Surplus

2017 closed with a $2.7M operating surplus. The surplus is due to unexpected levels of revenue plus additional savings in salaries, wages and benefits, contracted services, telecommunications, and travel and training. Council allocated the surplus to the following reserve accounts:

• $458,000 to the General Municipal Operating Reserve
• $273,000 to the Tax Stabilization Reserve
• $644,050 to the PAH Reserve
• $1,326,175 to the Asset Replacement/Rehabilitation Reserve

2017 Capital Project Summary

Council received their annual report an on those capital projects that were completed in 2017 and those that have been carried forward to 2018 as work in progress (see item D3 in https://canmore.ca/documents/2547-2018-04-24-finance-committee-agenda) and you can also keep up to date with ongoing capital projects at Projects

2018 Property Tax Rate Estimates

The Town collects just enough property taxes to cover operating budget requirements ($23M in 2018, including $725,000 for perpetually affordable housing), the provincial education tax requisition ($18M), and the seniors requisition (almost $1M). To determine the tax rate - or mill rate - administration calculates how much of the total is to be collected from residential and non-residential properties (the split), then divides these amounts by the total assessed value for each property classification. The tax rates resulting from this calculation will be presented to Council for approval at their May 15, 2018 regular meeting. In the meantime, you can learn more about property assessments at Property Assessments

Municipal Benchmarking – Streets and Roads

Canmore is participating with a group of municipalities to benchmark municipal service delivery metrics over time. Council has already seen benchmarking reports from police/RCMP, fire services, wastewater, and solid waste, and tonight they had the opportunity to review the report on roadway operations and maintenance.  In general, Canmore came out as average or better than average in terms of efficiency comparisons. To read the full report, as well as the other benchmarking reports, visit Municipal Benchmarking Statistics

2018 Land Use Bylaw Review

Administration has embarked on a significant review of the Land Use Bylaw aimed at addressing a number of community priorities approved by Council.  A stakeholder engagement program is scheduled to launch at the beginning of May. The following topics have been identified for review so far, and it’s expected that this list will evolve as feedback is received:

Council also approved:

·        The 2018 Supplementary Assessment Bylaw

·        The 2018 Downtown BRZ Tax Bylaw

·        Proceeding with a project to install a solar power system at the waste management centre, with the understanding a return on investment may take up to 20 years. For more information on the project, visit: Municipal Climate Change Actions

Canmore Fire Rescue Master Plan Update

The Fire Rescue Master Plan (FRMP) was approved by Council for planning purposes in March of 2017.  Many of the recommended actions are in progress, and a status report of all of the initiatives were provided.  Some of the initiatives being undertaken include a review of training requirements, provision of Fire Chief or Deputy Chief 24 hour coverage, an RFP for improved dispatch service, and key projects that include the 10 minute response map, fire hall location study, and a proposal for a Fire Inspector. The full report (Item D1) can be found here:  https://canmore.ca/documents/2507-2018-04-10-cow-agenda

Municipal Development Plan Indicators and Measures

Council approved the Municipal Development Plan (MDP) in September of 2016, which also includes a requirement for Administration to provide an annual report with the status of the goals and actions in the MDP. Key progress has been made in the following initiatives: affordable housing, environmental issues, Land Use Bylaw amendments, steep creek hazards.  See https://canmore.ca/documents/guiding-documents/2518-2017-annual-review-of-municipal-development-plan for more information.

Transportation Planning Update

Managing transportation is a challenge for communities everywhere. Providing attractive sustainable transportation facilities will provide people with choices and allow driving to continue to be an efficient option. As part of the 2018 Integrated Transportation Plan Update, the timing and sequencing of any changes to the network are critical. The plan details improvements to traffic flow to move traffic around the Town Centre, while balancing the commitment to a thriving, vibrant, inviting Town Centre.  On peak summer days, congestion is an ongoing concern. However, focusing solely on vehicles and vehicle delay are detracting from the things our community values, like nature, open space, vibrant public spaces, affordability, sustainability, and more. Visit Background - Transportation in Canmore for more information.

Committee of the Whole Regular Features

Check out the meeting agenda package at https://canmore.ca/documents/2507-2018-04-10-cow-agenda  to read:

·        Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors

·        Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities

·        Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration

Code of Conduct for Elected Officials Approved

Council now has a new bylaw that sets out a code of conduct for elected officials that covers - among other things - conflict of interest, use of influence, and respectful interactions. Anyone who believes a councillor has contravened the code will be able to submit a complaint to a third party investigator for follow up.  Should breach be proven to have occurred Council has the choice of imposing sanctions such as requiring a letter of apology, suspending committee appointments, or suspending pay. Stay tuned for a new web page coming soon with information on the new code of conduct. Contact the municipal clerk at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have any questions in the meantime.

Canmore will participate in the 2026 Olympic Bid Corporataion

The federal and provincial governments, as well as the City of Calgary, have announced they will cover the costs of preparing a bid for Calgary to host the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. In the wake of these funding announcements, the City of Calgary formally requested that the Town of Canmore participate in Calgary’s Bid Corporation (BidCo) and nominate a director to sit on the board.  Council voted to accept the invitation and appointed CAO Lisa de Soto as the director representing Canmore. It is important to note that approval to participate in a BidCo does not mean the Town of Canmore has decided to support the formal bid for the games – that decision will be made sometime before September 2018. More details on the BidCo can be found here https://canmore.ca/projects/2026-winter-olympics-bid/background/background and to learn more or to participate in a community survey, visit https://canmore.ca/olympics 

In other news, Council:

·        Overturned an earlier decision and approved a request for property tax exemption from the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative Society.

·        Saw an updated design for the new ice rink and washroom facilities being constructed in the Larch area. As a result of public feedback, the rink will be moved further north and a vault toilet will be installed in the west side of the rink.  For more info visit Winter Activities & Outdoor Ice

·        Accepted the 2017 Candidate Campaign Disclosures and Financial Statements, which are posted at Election Finances and Contribution Disclosure

·        Approved the 2018 Offsite Levy Bylaw.

To read any of the reports in the agenda package or watch a video recording of the meeting, visit Council Agendas, Minutes, and Videos

Tourist Home Enforcement Process Upheld

Two weeks ago Council received a request from a local resident to reconsider the process administration follows to address illegal tourist home rentals. Currently, administration serves suspected illegal operators with a stop order and a violation ticket with a $2,500 fine at the same time. Anyone receiving a ticket can pay it or appeal it to the courts. The request was that Council direct administration to issue only a stop order, then give the operator a grace period to comply before serving the violation ticket and fine. Council chose to accept the request as information only, as they felt extensive public education and a period of issuing warnings has already occurred. Council also stated they heard loud and clear from the public they wanted more enforcement on this issue and will be upholding the current process. To learn more about tourist homes in Canmore visit Vacation Rentals and Tourist Homes

Drug and Alcohol Policy Approved

With the upcoming legalization of cannabis, employers and staff are looking for guidance about what use is and is not permitted in the workplace. The policy approved today addresses the use of cannabis on the job, along with the use of medication, alcohol, and other drugs. It provides clarity on fitness for work to ensure the safety of employees, the public, and Town property. The policy will be posted on the website in the next day or two.

Council also approved:

·        An amendment to the Taxi Bylaw that adds a requirement for taxi drivers to pass a written test before they can be issued with their licenses; visit Taxis for details and a link to the online training program.

·        Changes to the Land Use Bylaw related to wildfire and overland flooding risk, green building regulations, and a clean-up of formatting and language;

·        The 2018 fee schedule for planning and development, which can be found here: Fee Schedule;

·        The Canmore Town Centre Parking Study, as well as a project to complete an Integrated Parking Management Plan Integrated Parking Management;

·        A traffic calming pilot project for Benchlands Trail Background - Transportation in Canmore; and

·        Pay adjustments for the Solid Waste Services Team.

To read any of the reports and attachment in the council agenda package visit https://canmore.ca/documents/2452-2018-03-20-council-agenda-regular

Quarry Lake Aquatic Safety Audit

Last fall, the Town worked with the Alberta Lifesaving Society to perform a safety audit at Quarry Lake.  The audit was primarily focused on improving swimmer safety and resulted in several recommendations to improve signage, education, and general safety at the waterfront. Quarry Lake Visitors will notice improvements starting this summer. You can read the entire audit report in the meeting agenda package – see item D1.

Homeless to Housing Coalition (H2HC)

H2HC is a coalition of Bow Valley agencies working together to support people experiencing homelessness.  Led by the Banff YWCA and supported by a combination of grant funding and private donations, the coalition is working on a number of initiatives, including the hiring of a part-time coordinator and the creating of two dedicated emergency accommodation spaces at the YWCA. See item D2 in the meeting agenda package for more information.

Explore 2026 Olympic Update

Council is gathering information to decide whether or not Canmore should partner with the City of Calgary in a bid for the 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Several activities are underway to help Council with their decision, including public engagement, participation in the PyeongChang Observer Program, and participation in Calgary’s “Dialogue Phase” Committee. To keep up to date and get involved in the next phase of community engagement, visit www.canmore.ca/olympics

Committee of the Whole Regular Features

Check out the meeting agenda package at https://canmore.ca/documents/2431-2018-03-13-cow-agenda to read:

·        Councillor Updates – a monthly report on the activities of individual councillors

·        Service Area Reports – each department provides a summary of operational activities

·        Council Resolution Action List – direction given by Council to administration

·        Bow Valley Regional Housing February Bulletin