Here are the highlights from the City Council meeting held on August 27, 2025. Read the full agenda and attachments for more details.
To learn more about Council meetings — including video recordings, meeting schedules, past minutes and upcoming agendas — visit the Council meetings page.
Comox Valley Tourism Strategic Framework - Draft
Council received the Draft Tourism Strategic Framework, developed by the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD). The plan emphasizes working together with local communities, Indigenous partners, and various organizations to build a resilient tourism network.
It includes goals like improving emergency preparedness, supporting Indigenous storytelling, and promoting environmental stewardship. The strategy also highlights the importance of education, cultural preservation, and climate action to protect the region’s natural and cultural assets for future generations.
The framework outlines five key themes: collaboration, stewardship, economic resilience, infrastructure, and year-round experiences. It proposes actions such as expanding low-carbon transportation, improving housing for tourism workers, enhancing digital connectivity, and making tourism more inclusive and accessible. The plan also encourages community engagement, supports local businesses, and promotes unique experiences like arts, culture, and outdoor adventures. Overall, the strategy aims to make the Comox Valley a welcoming, vibrant, and sustainable destination for both residents and visitors.
View Comox Valley Tourism Strategic Framework - Draft report and meeting video
Housing Target Order for the City of Courtenay
Council received a letter from Honourable Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. The letter outlines that the province has issued a Housing Target Order to the City of Courtenay, starting September 1, 2025. This order sets goals for how many new homes should be built over the next five years, with yearly targets and progress reports.
The province understands that cities face challenges like limited staff, infrastructure issues, and market changes, so they are asking for a report not only on how many homes are built but also on what actions they’re taking to meet the goals. The city is encouraged to work with First Nations and consider their needs when planning new housing.
To help Courtenay meet these goals, the province is offering support through funding programs and learning networks. These include grants for infrastructure, updates to planning documents, and help for middle-income housing projects. The province also encourages Courtenay to build different types of housing, like affordable units and homes with support services. While the City isn’t required to follow the suggested housing breakdown exactly, it’s encouraged to use it as a guide. The goal is to make sure Courtenay has enough homes for everyone and to help solve the housing crisis across B.C.
View the Housing Target Order for the City of Courtenay report and meeting video
Youth Climate Corps BC delegation report
The Youth Climate Corps BC (YCCBC) program in Courtenay has been making a big impact this season by helping local organizations with important environmental and food-related projects. At LUSH Valley, YCCBC mobilizers supported fruit picking and farm gleaning efforts, helping share fresh produce with people in need.
Lake Trail Community Education Society also praised the group for their hard work in transforming gardens, having meaningful conversations about climate and food justice, and enjoying shared meals. These young adults have brought energy and dedication to every task, and partners are excited to keep working with them.
YCCBC has also teamed up with Project Watershed and BC Parks Foundation to restore ecosystems, remove invasive plants, and monitor wildlife in places like Courtenay Airpark and Morrison Creek. In just nine weeks, they’ve removed hundreds of kilograms of invasive broom, picked hundreds of pounds of fruit, and completed 175 days of climate action. The program helps youth build skills, make connections, and take part in planning and decision-making. Looking ahead, YCCBC plans to continue working on city projects like climate-friendly homes, emergency readiness, and more, with the goal of growing a strong team of climate champions for the future.
Council commended the delegates on this year’s achievements and hope to see continuation of the program for future years.
View the Youth Climate Corps BC report and meeting video
2025 Truth and Reconciliation Day Parade Proposal
The City is reviewing a proposal for a Truth and Reconciliation Day Parade on September 30, 2025. The event, organized by the MIKI’SIW Métis Association, would involve closing 5th Street and the 5th Street Bridge from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for a Spirit Walk that ends at Lewis Park.
This walk honors residential school survivors and promotes learning about Métis history and culture. The event is expected to draw 1,000 to 1,500 people and has support from local businesses and community groups. The City is working to make sure the K’ómoks First Nation is respectfully informed, as the event takes place on their traditional territory.
City staff are preparing for the event by planning road closures, emergency services, and public communication. The parade supports the City’s goals around equity, arts, culture, and community well-being. The City will share updates with the public to help manage traffic and ensure safety. Council was asked to approve the road closures so the event can move forward.
Council approved the temporary road closure of 5th Street on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, including the 5th Street Bridge. Council also committed to in-kind support of up to $3,500 to the MIKI'SIW Métis Association to facilitate road closures on Harmston Avenue and 5th Street for the 5th Annual Spirit Walk in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, with funding to be provided from Council Discretionary Funds – Gaming Budget.
View the 2025 Truth and Reconciliation Day Parade proposal and meeting video