Courtenay special Council meeting highlights for April 30, 2025

This update covers highlights from the special Council meeting held on April 30, 2025. If there is something from the meeting that you would like more detail on, view the full agenda on our Council meetings page.

Announcements

Council expressed condolences following the tragic events at the Lapu Lapu Day festival in Vancouver and recognized the importance of mental health supports.

Council also acknowledged May 5 as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People (Red Dress Day), and encouraged the community to attend the local Red Dress Day gathering at the Florence Filberg Centre.

Staff reports

Pedestrian safety upgrades on Fitzgerald Avenue
Council approved safety improvements for Fitzgerald Avenue. Flashing beacons will be added at crosswalks at 10th, 11th and 14th streets. The 12th Street crosswalk will be removed. Council also directed staff to update design standards to include tactile paving for accessibility.

Urban Forestry Strategy – Operational Services update
Council approved a five-year tree planting program to help grow and maintain the city’s urban forest. Staff will also prepare a report on potential new options for residents, including a Tree Voucher program and an Infill Tree Request program.

Internal reports and correspondence

Community and Social Development Framework and Plan update
Council received the Community and Social Development Framework and Plan update briefing note. This framework guides Courtenay’s efforts to strengthen community resilience and well-being through partnerships and neighbourhood-based initiatives that address social needs and build local connections.

Bylaws

For third reading

Amend Development Permit Area 1 and 2 for small-scale, multi-unit housing:

• Official Community Plan - Amendment Bylaw No. 3177, 2025 (Form and Character Development Permit Area – Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing)
• Zoning - Amendment Bylaw No. 3176, 2025 (Form and Character Development Permit Area - Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing)

Regulate short-term rental (STR) accommodations:

• Business Licence - Amendment Bylaw No. 3133, 2025 (short-term rental accommodation)
• Zoning - Amendment Bylaw No. 3134, 2025 (short-term rental accommodation)
• Municipal Ticket Information - Amendment Bylaw No. 3139, 2025 (short-term rental accommodation)

For adoption

• Downtown Courtenay Revitalization Tax Exemption - Amendment Bylaw No. 3175, 2025
• 2025 Property Tax Rate Bylaw No. 3179

The next regular Council meeting is Wednesday, May 7, 2025, and will be available on the City of Courtenay’s YouTube channel.