Meeting #:
R9/2023
Date:
Time:
-
Location:
CVRD Civic Room, 770 Harmston Ave, Courtenay

We respectfully acknowledge that the land we gather on is Unceded
territory of the K’ómoks First Nation, the traditional keepers of this land.


WHEREAS quality childcare is a vital part of any community, supporting families, underpinning economic development and providing a safe and nurturing environment for children; and 
 
WHEREAS the 2019 Comox Valley Child Care Action Plan, developed by the Comox Valley Regional District in partnership with the City of Courtenay recommended that "all communities consider permissive exemptions for childcare services", something the Town of Comox has been doing for decades;
 
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT staff prepare a report for Council outlining the options for, and impact of, providing permissive tax exemptions for community owned non-profit childcare organizations. 

WHEREAS lack of appropriate and affordable housing has been identified as one of the most urgent issues facing the Comox Valley; and


WHEREAS the Province has encouraged municipalities to implement a speculation and vacancy tax to encourage empty units to be made available to the market;


THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT Council direct staff to coordinate with local governments within the Comox Valley, and report back to Council on the options and implications of a vacancy tax in the City of Courtenay.

Council received a presentation on April 12, 2023, from Mike Keohane, CVCCo's President, on the coalition's efforts to enhance cycling in Courtenay, which includes safe cycling education, networking, advocacy, and special events. The delegation requested that the City commit personnel to active transportation, improve maintenance of cycling lanes, collaborate with users to resolve difficult areas, and plan secure bike parking and other "end of trip" amenities.

Council received a presentation on April 12, 2023, from North Island College Students' Union representatives Carissa Wilson and Rebecca Lennox on the significance of menstrual equity in promoting health, education, and societal participation. They requested that Council vote in favour of a staff report on the expenses and impacts of providing free menstrual products in city-operated facilities and participate in the Period Promise campaign.

Council received the draft 2023-2026 Strategic Priorities for the City of Courtenay at the April 26, 2023, Regular Council Meeting and referred the plan for public input prior to consideration of adoption.