Here are the highlights from the City Council meeting held on April 15, 2026. 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 Chamber of Commerce – annual update on business retention and expansion project
Council received an update from the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce on the Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) program, which provides ongoing insight into local business conditions.
Over the past two years, the program has gathered feedback through events, surveys, and direct outreach to help identify key issues facing businesses, including rising costs, workforce challenges, and downtown safety concerns. This real-time information supports evidence-based decision-making and helps shape local economic development strategies.
The Chamber will continue this work in 2026, focusing on ongoing engagement, targeted business support, and improved access to economic data to inform Council and regional partners.
Strategic Transportation Plan – progress update
Council received an update on the Strategic Transportation Plan, which will guide how people move around Courtenay as the community grows.
Work completed so far shows that transportation challenges are connected across the system, shaped by geography, growth, and travel patterns. Community feedback identified road safety as the top priority, along with concerns about congestion and limited travel options. While driving remains the most reliable option for many trips, there is strong interest in safer and more connected alternatives such as walking, cycling, and transit.
The next phase will focus on developing the plan, including long-term network improvements and actions to support safer, more reliable, and more connected travel across all modes.
Action:
Council endorsed the progress update and directed staff to continue to the next phase of planning.
East Courtenay Firehall project update
Council received an update on the East Courtenay Firehall project, which will support emergency response as the community continues to grow.
The new facility is designed to improve response times in East Courtenay and ensure reliable fire protection services for a growing population. The project remains on schedule, with construction expected to begin in summer 2026.
The firehall is being designed as a fully electric building with energy-efficient systems, supporting the City’s climate goals while reducing long-term operating costs. It will include space for emergency vehicles, training, and firefighter support areas.
Lake Trail Multi-Use Pathway project update
Council received an update on Phase 2 of the Lake Trail Multi-Use Pathway project, which aims to improve safety and connections between Lake Trail Community School and Arden Elementary.
Phase 2 will complete a continuous pathway along Lake Trail Road, providing a safer route for students, families, and cyclists. Construction is planned to begin in June 2026, with some work timed to protect sensitive fish habitat in Arden Creek.
To reduce costs and environmental impacts, the project scope has been refined to stay within the existing roadway footprint while still delivering key active transportation improvements.
Changes to Provincial Home Owner Grant program
Council received an update on upcoming changes to the Province’s Home Owner Grant program and how they may affect Courtenay residents.
Starting in 2027, the Province plans to eliminate the Northern and Rural Home Owner Benefit, reducing the grant by $200 for eligible homeowners. This change is expected to impact many households in Courtenay and may increase overall property taxes for those who currently receive the benefit.
While the change does not affect the City’s budget, it may place added financial pressure on some residents, particularly those on fixed incomes.
Action:
Council will write to the Province to express concerns about changes to the Home Owner Grant and Property Tax Deferral programs.
2026 Loan Authorization Bylaw
Council considered bylaws to support funding for key infrastructure projects and set the City’s 2026 property tax rates.
The loan authorization bylaws would allow the City to borrow funds for major capital projects, including upgrades to Braidwood Road, a new sidewalk along Ryan Road, and construction of the East Courtenay Firehall. These projects are included in the City’s Financial Plan and support transportation improvements and public safety.
The property tax rate bylaw establishes how property taxes are applied across different property classes to fund City services.
Action:
Council gave first, second, and third readings to the loan authorization bylaws and the 2026 Property Tax Rate Bylaw.
2026 Property Tax Rate Bylaw No. 3217, 2026
Council considered bylaws to support funding for key infrastructure projects and to set the City’s 2026 property tax rates.
The loan authorization bylaws would allow the City to borrow funds for major capital projects, including upgrades to Braidwood Road, a new sidewalk along Ryan Road, and construction of the East Courtenay Firehall.
The property tax rate bylaw sets how property taxes are calculated for 2026 based on assessed property values and includes amounts collected on behalf of other local agencies. Tax notices are expected to be mailed in mid-May, with a payment deadline of July 2.
Action:
Council gave first, second, and third readings to the loan authorization bylaws and the 2026 Property Tax Rate Bylaw.