🐕 New Pet Rules Coming to Rossland
Council is set to adopt updated animal control regulations that will affect every dog and cat owner in the city. The new bylaw establishes clearer rules for pet ownership, licensing, and enforcement.
📋 Council will adopt Animal Control Bylaw No. 2862, 2025
🏛️ Being considered at the October 20, 2025 council meeting
📄 Full bylaw details available in the referenced PDF document
⚖️ Will establish new animal control regulations for the city
📄 Specific provisions outlined in the referenced PDF document
🐕 Expected to cover standard animal control regulations
🏠 Will apply to all pet owners within city limits
⚖️ Council seeks adoption to formalize animal control framework
📝 Citizens can review full bylaw details before adoption
What are your thoughts on the new animal control bylaw?
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Council Meeting: Monday, October 20, 2025 Location: Rossland Council Chambers - 1920 Third Avenue Time: Immediately following the Public Hearing
This is when council will consider adopting Animal Control Bylaw No. 2862, 2025.
💰 What You'll Pay for City Services Changes
Rossland Council is set to adopt a new Fees and Charges Bylaw that will update what residents pay for municipal services, programs, and permits across the city.
Fees and Charges Bylaw Update
📋 Council will adopt Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2863, 2025
💰 Sets updated fee structure for various municipal services
📊 Part of regular bylaw maintenance and updates
Fees and Charges Bylaw Update
🏛️ Ensures fees align with current service delivery costs
📖 Full details available in the Request for Council Decision document
📋 Bylaw No. 2863, 2025 requires Council adoption
📄 Request for Council Decision document provides full details
🏛️ Part of municipal governance and service delivery
What are your thoughts on the adoption of the new Fees and Charges Bylaw?
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Council Meeting: Monday, October 20, 2025 at Rossland Council Chambers (1920 Third Avenue) immediately following the Public Hearing. The Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 2863, 2025 will be considered for adoption during this Regular Council Meeting.
🏛️ Council Shaping Rossland's Next 5 Years
Your city council is reviewing the 2026-2030 Five Year Financial Plan for major infrastructure and capital projects. These decisions will determine how millions in tax dollars are spent on roads, buildings, parks, and essential services over the next half-decade.
🏗️ Infrastructure and capital projects over five years
🏢 Municipal facility and equipment needs
💰 Long-term financial planning and budget priorities
📅 Multi-year spending commitments and debt planning
🏛️ Community infrastructure investment decisions
💰 Municipal budget and tax rate implications
🏛️ Infrastructure maintenance and upgrades
📈 Long-term financial sustainability decisions
What are your thoughts on the capital budget planning process?
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Council Meeting: October 20, 2025 immediately following the Public Hearing at Rossland Council Chambers (1920 Third Avenue).
This is a preview discussion where Council will provide staff with further direction on the 2026-2030 Five Year Financial Plan. This represents an early stage in the capital budget planning process.
🔍 Who's Checking Rossland's Books?
Council is considering awarding a 2025-2027 annual financial audit services contract to MNP LLP. This decision affects how the city's financial records will be professionally reviewed.
📋 Council must award a financial statement audit services contract
📅 Contract covers annual services for 2025-2027
🏢 MNP LLP has been recommended for the contract
📜 Contract involves financial statement audit services
📁 Decision requires Council approval at this meeting
🏢 MNP LLP selected as audit firm
📅 Contract covers 2025-2027 financial years
💼 Will provide annual financial statement audit services
📈 Professional auditing services for the city
⚖️ Requires formal Council approval to proceed
What questions do you have about the city's financial audit process?
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Council Meeting: Monday, October 20, 2025 at Rossland Council Chambers (1920 Third Avenue).
Your Voice: Attend the meeting to learn more about this financial audit contract decision.
🔥 Council Votes on Wildfire Protection Grant
Rossland Council is deciding whether to pursue a major wildfire resiliency grant that would fund community safety improvements and Firesmart initiatives to protect homes and families from wildfire threats.
🏛️ Columbia Basin Trust offering wildfire resiliency grants to communities
📋 City would manage the grant program and coordinate safety improvements
🎯 Grant specifically targets wildfire risk reduction in Rossland
🤝 Requires Council endorsement to move forward with application
⚡ City staff ready to handle grant administration and project oversight
🏠 Firesmart initiatives to help residents protect their properties
🌲 Community-wide wildfire risk reduction measures
📚 Public education and awareness campaigns about fire safety
🛡️ Reducing wildfire risk and impact to the City of Rossland
🏛️ City-managed program with professional grant oversight
Should Rossland pursue this wildfire protection grant?
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Council Meeting: Monday, October 20, 2025 at Rossland Council Chambers (1920 Third Avenue) following the Public Hearing. Residents can attend to hear the decision and provide input during the public input period.
🎄 Christmas Spirit Needs City Support
Community organizers are seeking Rossland's help to Rekindle the Spirit of Christmas this December. The festive event needs City electrical supply and sidewalk space to bring holiday magic to downtown.
⚡ Access to City electrical supply for event lighting and activities
🚶 Use of downtown sidewalks for event setup and activities
📅 Event scheduled for December 6th, 2025
🎄 Rekindle the Spirit of Christmas 2025 Event
🏢 Requires Council approval for City resource usage
Should the City approve electrical supply and sidewalk use for this Christmas event?
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Council decides October 20th following the Public Hearing at Rossland Council Chambers (1920 Third Avenue). Event organizers need approval to finalize December 6th planning.
Want to weigh in? Attend the meeting or contact Council before the vote.
Resort zone seeks commercial spa expansion
A business is seeking approval to expand commercial operations in Rossland's Resort Holiday Park zone to operate a commercial nordic spa facility. This zoning amendment could set precedent for increased commercial activity in residential resort areas.
🏔️ Current CD-3-RHP zone designed for Resort Holiday Park use
🏪 Amendment would add "Commercial, Resort Use" to permitted activities
🧘 Specific proposal is for a commercial nordic spa facility
📋 Requires public hearing due to zoning bylaw change
📄 Bylaw amends CD-3-RHP zoning to allow expanded resort commercial use
🏪 Specifically enables operation of a commercial nordic spa facility
🗓️ Public hearing scheduled for October 20, 2025
📜 Documents available for inspection at City Hall and online
⚖️ Notice published per Local Government Act requirements
Should the CD-3-RHP zone be amended to allow commercial nordic spa operations?
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Environmental Protection vs Mining Development
🌲 Council backs community effort to pause Record Ridge mining permits
After hearing from the Save Record Ridge Action Committee, Rossland Council voted to request government halt new permits for the proposed West High Yield Magnesium Mine until a judicial review is completed.
⛏️ West High Yield company wants to develop magnesium mine on Record Ridge
🏛️ Environmental Assessment Office decided no environmental assessment required
⚖️ Save Record Ridge Action Committee filing judicial review of that decision
🌿 Community concerns about impact on local ecosystem and recreation area
🚫 Residents want permit process paused during legal challenge
Should environmental reviews come before mining permits?
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Official Votes
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Next Steps:
- Staff will send formal request to provincial government
- Judicial review process continues through courts
- Save Record Ridge Action Committee continues their legal challenge
From October 6, 2025 Council meeting
Council Action:
Council voted to direct staff to send correspondence requesting a pause on issuing additional permits for the West High Yield Magnesium Mine until the judicial review is completed.
Motion by Councillor Provencal - Carried
City Taking On $7M+ Sewer Risk
Major Financial Decision Alert 🚨 Council just committed taxpayers to cover ALL cost overruns on a massive sewer replacement project. The city is applying for a $7 million grant but promising to pay ANY amount above that from your tax dollars.
🚰 Wagon Road Sanitary Sewer Replacement Project needs to be completed
📋 Required to meet grant application criteria - city must guarantee project completion
💰 City applying for $7 million from 2025 Strategic Priorities Fund Program
🔧 Project involves replacing existing sanitary sewer infrastructure
⚠️ Grant application requires city commitment to cover all aspects of project completion
💵 Applying for $7 million from Strategic Priorities Fund Program
📋 City commits to overall grant management of the entire project
⚠️ City responsible for supporting any cost overruns of the proposed project
🔒 Amendment required to meet grant application criteria
🏢 Motion passed to include city's willingness to cover overruns
Are you comfortable with unlimited spending commitments?
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Official Votes
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Motion passed October 6, 2025 ✅ Grant application will now be submitted with city's financial guarantees. Contact council members to share thoughts on future infrastructure spending policies.
Major Overhaul Coming to Community Grants?
Rossland is proposing sweeping changes to how local nonprofits and community groups receive city funding. The new policy would create a unified application system, eliminate most tax exemptions, and establish stricter evaluation criteria for the $366,284 in annual community support.
Current System Getting Complete Makeover
🏛️ Multiple funding streams currently scattered across grants, tax breaks, and in-kind support
📅 Different application deadlines create confusion for community groups
💰 Tax exemptions being phased out in favor of direct grant funding
Current System Getting Complete Makeover
📊 New objective scoring criteria to replace current evaluation process
🤝 Shift toward holistic review of all city support to each organization
New Streamlined System Details
📋 Single application portal opening June 1st with July 15th deadline
🏆 Four funding categories: Multi-year Operating, One-time Project, Capital, and Letters of Support
📈 Unified scoring system emphasizing financial need, municipal alignment, and community impact
New Streamlined System Details
📊 Annual reporting requirements with standardized outcome surveys
⚖️ Fair evaluation process comparing total city support across all programs
The Numbers Behind Community Support
Should community funding be more streamlined and objective?
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Council Decision: October 20, 2025 at Rossland Council Chambers (1920 Third Avenue) immediately following the Public Hearing. 2026 Transition: Current funding applications due November 21, 2025. New unified system starts in 2026 for 2027 funding decisions. Public input welcomed before the vote.
Who's representing you in 2026?
Council is finalizing committee appointments that determine which councillors will advocate for different community interests and oversee key services throughout 2026.
🏛️ Committee appointments determine council oversight of city services
📚 Library liaison provides direct council representation for library users
🌲 Regional district appointments affect decisions on rural services and environmental issues
👥 Appointments influence which community groups get dedicated council support
⚖️ Distribution of roles affects workload balance and expertise matching
📋 2026 council appointments approved as presented by staff
📚 Councillor Provencal appointed as Rossland Public Library liaison
🏔️ Mayor Morel confirmed as Regional District of Kootenay Boundary representative
🔄 Councillor Weaver confirmed as regional district alternate
📅 Appointments effective for full 2026 calendar year
Do you have feedback about these council appointments?
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Official Votes
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Appointments were approved at the October 6, 2025 council meeting. Next regular council meeting is Monday, January 12, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, 1920 Third Avenue.
Who Gets Tax Breaks in 2026? 🏛️
Rossland Council is deciding which organizations will receive property tax exemptions next year - saving them money while other taxpayers cover the difference.
🏛️ Council is adopting the 2026 Permissive Tax Exemptions Bylaw No. 2853
📋 This bylaw affects tax exemptions for the 2026 tax year
📝 The bylaw requires Council adoption to take effect
🏢 The decision impacts property tax exemptions for organizations
📋 Council will adopt Bylaw No. 2853 for 2026 permissive tax exemptions affecting qualifying organizations.
What are your thoughts on tax exemptions for community organizations?
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Meeting: October 20, 2025 at Rossland Council Chambers (1920 Third Avenue) to adopt Bylaw No. 2853.
New Pet Rules Coming to Rossland?
Council is set to adopt a comprehensive Animal Control Bylaw that will establish new rules for pet ownership, leashing requirements, and enforcement procedures throughout the city. 🐕
Council will consider adopting Animal Control Bylaw No. 2862, 2025 - a comprehensive municipal bylaw that will establish new regulations for animal control within the city limits.
This bylaw will be considered under Policies and Bylaws as a Request for Council Decision, indicating it's ready for formal adoption after the development process.
Should Rossland adopt new animal control regulations?
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Official Votes
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Council Meeting: Monday, October 20, 2025 immediately following the Public Hearing at Rossland Council Chambers (1920 Third Avenue). The Animal Control Bylaw is listed under Policies and Bylaws for council decision.
💰 Will Your City Services Cost More in 2026?
Rossland Council is set to adopt a new Fees and Charges Bylaw that will determine what residents pay for municipal services next year. From building permits to recreation programs, these fees directly impact your household budget.
Council will vote to adopt a comprehensive Fees and Charges Bylaw that will set the cost structure for various municipal services in 2025. The specific details of which services and fee amounts are not included in the public agenda.
This bylaw will establish the official fee structure for municipal services in 2025, though specific amounts are not included in the public agenda.
What are your thoughts on municipal fee structures?
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🏛️ Your Tax Dollars: What Should Rossland Fund?
Council is reviewing the 2026-2030 budget plan that will shape city services and your property taxes for the next five years. Big decisions ahead on recreation programs, environmental initiatives, communications, and community grants.
📊 Five-year financial plan sets spending priorities through 2030
🏡 Property tax revenue allocation decisions affect all residents
🎯 Staff presented budget preview to guide Council direction
💬 Community feedback will shape final budget decisions
⚖️ Balance between service levels and taxpayer costs
💼 New part-time communications position to improve city information
🎨 Recreation instructor role to expand programming (user-fee funded)
🌱 Additional funding for Spring Clean Up and Fire Smart Bin Programs
🤝 Maintain 5% property tax allocation for community group grants
Council requested a World Cafe style public engagement session on October 27, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 PM at Miners Hall. This informal format lets residents discuss budget priorities directly with Council and staff.
Next Steps: Council discusses budget preview at October 20, 2025 meeting. Public engagement session October 27, 6-8 PM at Miners Hall. Final budget decisions coming in future Council meetings. Attend meetings or contact Council with your budget priorities.
Rossland's Remembrance Day ceremony approved
Council has approved the Royal Canadian Legion's request for their annual Remembrance Day ceremony, including a temporary street closure to honor our veterans and fallen soldiers. 🇨🇦
🚧 Washington Street closed between Columbia Avenue and First Avenue
📍 Cenotaph courtyard outside Rossland Library will be ceremony venue
🕐 Event scheduled for November 11th, 2025
🚗 Motorists will need to plan alternate routes during ceremony
Will you attend Rossland's Remembrance Day ceremony?
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Ceremony Date: November 11th, 2025
Council Meeting: October 6, 2025
The Legion's request was approved to ensure our community can properly honor veterans and remember those who served. Plan your downtown travel accordingly that day.
Mining Giant Merger Seeks City Support
Two major mining companies are merging, and they want Rossland Council to write a letter supporting the deal to Canada's Minister of Industry. But what's in it for our community?
🏭 Teck Resources and Anglo American are merging operations
📝 Companies requested Rossland write support letter to federal minister
🏛️ Council voted to provide the requested letter of support
📨 Letter will be sent to Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry
🏗️ Letter will mention importance of legacy lands to surrounding communities
🏗️ Legacy lands are mentioned as important to surrounding communities
📄 Council will emphasize legacy lands importance in the support letter
🏭 Merger involves Teck Resources and Anglo American operations
🏛️ Council wants to ensure community interests are represented
🤝 Support letter connects local concerns with corporate merger
Should Rossland advocate for corporate mergers?
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Council Decision Made: October 6, 2025 meeting - motion carried. Support letter will be sent to Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry. Next regular council meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 12, 2026.
Committee Approves Five Policy Revisions
The Policy & Personnel Committee completed final review of five revised policies including director remuneration, correspondence procedures, and employee travel expenses - all moving forward to the Board for adoption.
Policies Receiving Final Approval
💼 Director Remuneration and Extended Absence Policy
✉️ Correspondence Policy for official communications
✈️ Employee Travel and Expense Reimbursement Policy
Policies Receiving Final Approval
🌐 Website Monitoring Policy for online presence
📊 Service Analysis Tool Kit Policy
📅 Employee Travel Policy amended - 14 day receipt deadline
🔄 All policies approved as revised by committee
✅ Policies now move to Board for final adoption
📄 Effective dates vary by individual policy
Should the Board adopt these revised policies?
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Next Steps
✅ Board vote on policy adoption coming up
📅 Travel policy changes start June 1st
Did You Know Non-Profits Can Collect Bottles?
🍼 The RDKB has a 2015 policy that allows non-profit groups to collect refundable bottles from disposal sites to raise funds for community programs. This fundraising opportunity has been quietly helping local organizations since June 2015.
How the Bottle Collection Program Works
🏢 Non-profits can divert bottles from RDKB disposal sites
💰 Groups keep all refund money for community projects
🔄 Program runs through competitive RFPs every 2 years
How the Bottle Collection Program Works
📦 RDKB provides collection bins as "last resort" option
📝 Successful groups sign binding agreements with RDKB
Official Policy Statement
"The Board of Directors of the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary permits non-profit groups to divert refundable beverage containers from disposal at RDKB disposal sites and retain the refunds."— RDKB Policy Document
🏃♀️ Sports teams can fund equipment through bottle drives
🎭 Community programs get alternative fundraising option
♾️ Diverts containers from landfills to proper recycling
📅 RFP process ensures qualified groups handle collections
🌱 Supports both environmental and community goals
Should more people know about this fundraising program?
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📅 Policy Status: Approved June 18, 2015 and currently in effect
📝 Application Process: Non-profits can apply through RFP process every 2 years
📞 More Info: Contact RDKB Environmental Services to learn about participating in bottle collection fundraising
🚒 $120K Grant for Fire Department Equipment
Emergency Preparedness Boost
RDKB seeks major UBCM Community Emergency Preparedness Fund grant to upgrade equipment and training across four rural fire departments without impacting local taxes.
🎯 UBCM Community Emergency Preparedness Fund opportunity
🤝 Regional application allows maximum $30K per fire department
📋 Requires Board resolution to proceed with grant application
💰 Supplemental funding won't affect 2026 budget requisitions
⚡ Addresses historically cost-prohibitive equipment and training needs
🚨 KBRFR - $30,000
🏔️ Christina Lake Fire Rescue - $30,000
🌲 Beaverdell Volunteer Fire Department - $30,000
⛷️ Big White Fire Department - $30,000
🎯 Total potential grant: $120,000
🛡️ Enhanced emergency response capabilities for rural communities
💸 Zero impact on local taxpayer burden
🎓 Access to training previously too expensive to provide
Should RDKB pursue this emergency services grant?
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Next Steps
Board will vote on grant application approval. Staff will manage application process and coordinate with Finance department.
Attend RDKB Board meetings to voice your support or concerns.
Should board directors get taxpayer-funded raises?
Regional District board compensation review recommends pay increases for Municipal Directors and Board Chair, funded by taxpayer dollars. The proposal would raise compensation to match regional medians.
📊 Annual inflation adjustments keep pace with cost of living
🏛️ Compensation reviewed every 4 years using 7 comparable regional districts
💰 Current approach targets market median for board and staff pay
📋 Multiple compensation elements including stipends, meeting allowances, and expenses
🎯 Staff analysis shows mixed results across different director roles
Should director compensation increases be approved?
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Board meeting October 8, 2025 to vote on compensation increases. If approved, staff will prepare amended bylaw for future meeting.
🏛️ Regional District Approves Community Grants
Directors approved multiple community grants in September, including a $2,500 memorial bench project for the Lower Columbia Community Health Centre.
Grant Approvals by Directors
💰 $4,000 approved Sept 17 by Ali Grieve
💰 $1,500 approved Sept 23 by Linda Worley
💰 $2,500 approved Sept 24 by Linda Worley for memorial bench
Grant Approvals by Directors
💰 $500 approved Sept 25 by Linda Worley
💰 $1,000 approved Sept 29 by Ali Grieve
🏥 Memorial bench for Lower Columbia Community Health Centre
💝 Honors Jen Schmidt, volunteer who died from cancer
🪑 Provides outdoor meeting space for vulnerable patients
"One of our key volunteers, Jen Schmidt, who eventually became project lead, lost her battle with cancer just weeks before the opening of the CHC. Our team would like to install a memorial bench that could be used by our Social Workers who mentioned some of our most vulnerable patients aren't comfortable coming inside."— Linda Sawchenko, Lower Columbia Community Health Centre
What community projects should receive priority funding?
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Grant approvals occurred in September 2025 by regional directors.
New Waste Penalties Coming
⚠️ Heads up waste facility users - The Regional District is adding 8 new violations that could cost you $200-$400 in fines. From unlawful recycling deposits to property damage, these new enforcement rules aim to crack down on facility misuse.
♻️ Unlawful deposit of recyclable materials ($200-$400)
🚫 Bringing non-permitted or prohibited waste ($200-$400)
☣️ Unlawful deposit of controlled/hazardous waste ($200-$400)
🔒 Unlawful entry to facilities ($200-$400)
💰 Unlawfully removing materials or damaging property ($200-$400)
🏦 Streamlined enforcement ahead - The Regional District is also adding the Manager of Infrastructure and Sustainability as a new enforcement officer who can issue penalties and handle disputes. This expands who can write tickets and aims to speed up the violation process.
Are these waste facility penalties reasonable?
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📅 Regional District Board Meeting - October 8, 2025
This bylaw amendment gets first, second AND third reading at the same meeting - meaning it could be adopted immediately. Want to weigh in on enforcement approach or penalty amounts? Attend the meeting or contact your regional director before October 8th.
🚨 New Waste Disposal Fines Coming
The Regional District is adopting Bylaw 1923 to enforce new solid waste violations with fines up to $400. From illegal dumping to damaging facilities - these rules now have teeth.
🗂️ New Solid Waste Management Bylaw created violations without enforcement power
⚖️ Current Bylaw Notice Enforcement system couldn't issue fines for waste infractions
🔧 Amendment adds 8 new waste violations to enforceable schedule
👥 Streamlines dispute process by expanding screening officer roles
📋 Updates needed to make new waste rules legally enforceable
♻️ Unlawful deposit of recyclable materials: $200-$400 fine
🚫 Deposit of prohibited waste materials: $200-$400 fine
⚠️ Unlawful deposit of controlled waste: $200-$400 fine
🔐 Unlawful entry to waste facilities: $200-$400 fine
💰 Damage to Regional District property: $200-$400 fine
The amendment also adds the Manager of Infrastructure and Sustainability as a Screening Officer to handle bylaw violation disputes more efficiently. This administrative change aims to streamline the appeals process for residents.
Should waste rule violations carry fines?
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Board Meeting: October 8, 2025
Status: Proposed amendment bylaw ready for consideration
Process: Requires First, Second and Third Readings, then Adoption
Timeline: All readings and adoption could occur at the October 8 meeting
Province Delays Mattress Recycling Rules
BC government has decided not to regulate mattresses at this time under Extended Producer Responsibility rules. The delay is due to current global economic climate and affordability concerns from British Columbians.
🗳️ Regional District advocated for mattress recycling regulation in September
♻️ Extended Producer Responsibility makes manufacturers handle disposal costs
💰 Without regulation, residents pay disposal fees instead of producers
🌍 Policy delay affects BC's circular economy progress
📋 Other products still planned: electronics, medical sharps, auto parts
"The current global economic climate has made it difficult to get by, and we are listening to concerns from British Columbians about affordability challenges. This has helped inform our decision not to regulate mattresses at this time."— Hon. Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks
This provincial response was received by the Regional District and is included as Attachment # 5.5.b in the agenda package for the Chair and Directors to consider.
Immigration Program Seeks Regional Support
Community Futures Central Kootenay is presenting to the RDKB Board about their Rural Community Immigration Pilot program and making a funding request. Executive Director Andrea Wilkey will provide an update on the program status.
🏢 Community Futures Central Kootenay is presenting program update
👩💼 Executive Director Andrea Wilkey serving as spokesperson
📋 Delegation item scheduled for Board consideration
💰 Organization making funding request to RDKB
🌄 Rural Community Immigration Pilot program focus of presentation
💰 Community Futures seeking financial support from RDKB
📈 Andrea Wilkey will present program updates and funding requirements
🎯 Specific funding amount and use details to be presented
🗓️ Delegation scheduled for October 8, 2025 meeting
📢 Board will consider funding request after presentation
October 8, 2025 at 1:00 PM - RDKB Board of Directors meeting via Teams videoconferencing. Executive Director Andrea Wilkey will present the delegation about the Rural Community Immigration Pilot program and funding request. Public can attend to hear this presentation.
$3M Aquatic Centre Overhaul Seeks Funding
The RDKB is applying for a major grant to transform Grand Forks Aquatic Centre with solar power, energy efficiency upgrades, and accessibility improvements. The project could be 100% grant-funded, but taxpayers would cover any cost overruns beyond the $400k contingency.
Why This Upgrade is Needed
🏭 Aquatic Centre is RDKB's largest energy consumer and greenhouse gas emitter
♿ Current facility has significant accessibility barriers identified in 2021 study
💡 Heating and ventilation systems need modernizing and upgrading
Why This Upgrade is Needed
🚧 Previous attempt in 2024 failed when no contractors bid within budget
💰 Existing federal Green Buildings grant money remains available to stack with new funding
Solar-Powered Future for the Pool
☀️ Solar thermal system as primary heating source with rooftop solar panels
🔥 Smart heating hierarchy: solar first, then heat pumps, boilers as backup only
💨 New air handling systems with renewable pre-heating throughout facility
Solar-Powered Future for the Pool
⚡ On-site electricity generation to offset facility power consumption
🌱 Integrated approach advances pool systems 20 years into the future
Making the Pool Accessible for Everyone
🚻 Universal accessible washroom created in main lobby area
🚨 Emergency systems upgraded with accessible fire pulls and visual alarms
🏢 New reception desk with accessible height section and knee space
Making the Pool Accessible for Everyone
🗺️ Complete wayfinding overhaul with pictograms, braille, and high-contrast design
♿ Comprehensive barrier removal to serve residents of all ages and abilities
Project Costs and Funding
Should RDKB pursue this major aquatic centre upgrade?
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RDKB Board Meeting: October 8, 2025 - Board will vote on supporting this grant application. Project would take 24 months to complete if funding approved. This is part of the new Canada Community Building Fund with up to $7M available for eligible projects.
🚨 Is Our Infrastructure Ready for Disasters?
The RDKB wants to spend $1.5 million to assess how well our critical infrastructure - water systems, fire halls, emergency services - can handle emergencies like floods, fires, and power outages. This comprehensive study would identify vulnerabilities and create action plans to protect essential services our communities depend on.
What Counts as Critical Infrastructure?
🏢 39 RDKB-owned critical assets need assessment under provincial law
📊 Assets categorized as large, medium, or small infrastructure
🚑 Defined by the Emergency and Disaster Management Act
What Counts as Critical Infrastructure?
🏗️ Risk assessments required to identify vulnerabilities
📈 Mitigation strategies needed for each asset type
The Price Tag
The Financial Reality: While this is a 100% grant application (no upfront taxpayer cost), the RDKB Board must agree to cover any cost overruns beyond the grant amount. The work is legally required under the Emergency and Disaster Management Act - the question is whether to do it now with grant funding or later with taxpayer money.
Should the Board support this grant application and potential cost overruns?
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Board Decision: October 8, 2025 meeting
Grant Status: Application submitted to UBCM Strategic Priorities Fund - Board resolution needed to support the application and agree to cover any cost overruns
$5.9M Christina Lake Fire Hall Upgrade Proposed
Christina Lake Fire Rescue is seeking a massive expansion to address overcrowding and modernize their 1997 facility. The current 156 m² space struggles to accommodate 20-25 firefighters, forcing the department to rely on a temporary trailer.
🚒 Current fire hall built in 1997 - increasingly cramped for modern operations
👥 20-25 paid-on-call firefighters sharing undersized administrative space
🏗️ ATCO trailer added as temporary solution creates operational fragmentation
📈 Growing service demands and staffing needs outpacing facility capacity
🏢 2,000 sq ft administrative expansion with dedicated sleeping quarters
⚡ Solar panel installation and energy efficiency upgrades
💧 Rainwater collection system to reduce water consumption
🔧 Building envelope and insulation modernization
👨🚒 Expanded training areas and proper office space for firefighters
Should we invest in upgraded fire safety infrastructure?
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RDKB Board Meeting: October 8, 2025
Board will vote on supporting this UBCM Strategic Priorities Fund application. Grant applications were due September 12, 2025 - this vote provides required board endorsement for the submission.
Your Neighbors Are Fighting for Record Ridge
Local environmental group asks Rossland Council to help challenge a proposed magnesium mine that bypassed full environmental review 🏔️
⛏️ West High Yield wants to build a magnesium mine on Record Ridge
📋 Provincial office decided NO full environmental assessment needed
🌲 Save Record Ridge Action Committee disagrees with this decision
⚖️ They're asking courts to review whether assessment should be required
🛑 Want all mine permits paused until legal review is complete
🤝 SRRAC wants Council's support for their judicial review application
📨 Requesting no further permits be issued until review is complete
🏦 Council agreed to send correspondence to government parties
🔍 Judicial review will examine Environmental Assessment Office's decision
⏸️ Motion carried to pause additional permits during review
📅 SRRAC presented request at October 6th Council meeting
✅ Council voted to support the permit pause request
📨 Staff directed to contact government parties about permit suspension
McLeod Avenue Project: Parking & Access Questions
A Rossland resident is asking important questions about how the McLeod Avenue retaining wall project will impact neighborhood access and parking. These are the kinds of practical concerns that affect daily life for residents.
🏗️ Retaining wall construction project is planned for McLeod Avenue
🚗 Residents concerned about parking availability during construction
🚪 Questions raised about maintaining property access
🏘️ Community members seeking clarity before work begins
💬 Public input demonstrates active civic engagement
📅 Question raised at October 6, 2025 Council meeting
🏑️ Regular Council meetings scheduled throughout the year
🎤 Public input periods available at Council meetings
👥 Residents can attend meetings to stay informed
🗓️ Next meetings scheduled for various dates in 2026
When will recreation plans be shared?
🏃♀️ A Rossland resident is asking Council for transparency on when the Recreation Master Plan Implementation Committee will present their progress and recommendations to the public.
🏒 The committee is working on implementing Rossland's recreation master plan
🏊♀️ Their work affects future sports facilities, programs, and recreation services
💰 Implementation decisions will impact recreation budgets and priorities
📅 Residents want to know when they'll see the committee's recommendations
🗣️ Laura Pettit asked the timing question during public input
This was asked at the October 6, 2025 Council meeting. Residents can attend future Council meetings to hear when the Recreation Committee will present, or contact City Hall for updates on the presentation schedule.
Major Pet Rules Overhaul Coming to Rossland? 🐕
Council is set to approve Animal Control Bylaw No. 2862 - a comprehensive rewrite of pet regulations affecting every dog owner.
🐕 New licensing & leash requirements 🐔 Chicken keeping rules introduced 💰 Higher penalties for violations
📅 Second & Third Readings: October 6, 2025
🔄 Replaces current 2020 Animal Control Bylaw with expanded framework
📋 Addresses gaps in clarity, enforcement, and alignment with provincial law
🏡 Responds to community needs around pet ownership and animal welfare
⚖️ Introduces consistent enforcement standards and clearer definitions
🎯 Developed through operational feedback and research from other communities
🔖 ALL dogs over 4 months MUST be licensed (was optional for some)
🏷️ Permanent ID required for all dogs (microchip/tattoo)
🔗 Downtown core becomes mandatory leash area
🚨 New 'Aggressive' and 'Vicious' dog designations with special requirements
📍 Maximum 4 dogs per property (new limit)
🐔 Up to 15 hens now allowed in residential areas (chickens legalized!)
🚫 Roosters prohibited unless agricultural zoning
🏠 Specific coop requirements: 0.5m² per hen, proper setbacks
🐎 Horses restricted to designated equestrian trails only
🐄 Livestock prohibited except where zoning permits
💰 Fines range from $50-$500 (up from previous amounts)
🕒 Early payment discounts available (14-day window)
🏠 Animal Control Officers can enter properties for inspections
🚨 Serious animal injuries now carry $500 maximum penalty
📋 Detailed ticketing schedule covers 40+ specific violations
Do you support this comprehensive update to pet regulations balancing animal welfare, public safety, and responsible ownership? What concerns do you have about the new licensing requirements, chicken keeping rules, or enforcement approach?
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Official Votes
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When: October 6, 2025 Regular Council Meeting Where: Rossland Council Chambers - 1920 Third Avenue
🗣️ Council will consider second and third readings
How to Participate: • Attend the council meeting • Submit written comments to Council • Contact your councillors directly • Public input period available at meeting start
Major Fee Changes Coming to Rossland 💰
Council is voting on Bylaw No. 2863 - a complete overhaul that consolidates ALL city fees into one document.
From building permits to dog licenses, water connections to planning applications - if you use city services, these changes affect you! 🏘️
Several services moving to "cost recovery" pricing.
📋 Currently fees are scattered across multiple different bylaws - confusing for residents and staff
🎯 New bylaw consolidates everything into one user-friendly document
💡 Updates fees to better reflect actual costs of providing services
⚡ Streamlines administration and reduces bureaucratic burden
📈 Introduces cost recovery model where users pay actual costs for utilities
🔌 Utility Connections: No more flat fees - you now pay actual costs of labor, materials & equipment
🏠 Building Permits: Damage deposits removed (but permit fees remain)
💳 Credit Card Fees: New 0.25% convenience fee for online payments
🔄 Refund Processing: $10 fee for refunds under $100
🔧 Building Permit: $50 application + $10 per $1,000 of project value
💧 Water Connection: $2,415 for first 20 meters, then $105/additional meter
🌊 Sewer Connection: $2,800 for first 20 meters, then $125/additional meter
🐶 Dog License: $20 (sterilized) vs $50 (not sterilized)
📝 Planning Applications: $1,150-$2,300 depending on complexity
What do you think about the shift to cost recovery pricing for utilities? Should residents pay actual costs or prefer flat fees for predictability?
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Council Meetings: Staff recommends all three readings happen at the same meeting
Process: Bylaw requires first, second, and third readings before final adoption
Next Steps: If passed, this replaces the current scattered fee structure immediately
Have Input? Contact council before the vote!
Who's Running Rossland? 🏛️
When Mayor steps away, who takes charge? 🤔
Council is voting on a transparent rotation schedule for 2026 - so residents always know exactly who's accountable for city decisions when the mayor is unavailable.
No surprises, no confusion. Just clear democratic leadership! ✨
📋 Monthly rotation system keeps leadership fresh and fair
⚖️ Required by law - Community Charter Section 130
📊 Schedule based on councillors' availability survey
🗳️ November & December left open due to October 2026 election
💰 Zero cost to taxpayers - just better organization
2026 Acting Mayor Schedule
🌲 January: Councillor Weaver
❤️ February: Councillor Humpherys
🌸 March: Councillor Spooner
🌷 April: Councillor Provençal
🌼 May: Councillor Kwiatkowski
2026 Acting Mayor Schedule
☀️ June: Councillor Weaver
🌞 July: Councillor Provençal
🌊 August: Councillor Boyce
🍂 September: Councillor Spooner
🎃 October: Councillor Humpherys
Do you think this rotating Acting Mayor schedule provides good accountability and transparency for Rossland residents?
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🗺️ What's Next:
Council will vote on this schedule at their next meeting. This administrative decision ensures residents always know who's in charge when needed.
🗣️ Have Questions? Contact City Hall or attend council meetings to learn more about municipal governance.
Bookmark this schedule - you might need to know who's Acting Mayor throughout 2026!
What Will Your City Look Like in 2030? 🏙️
Council is about to make huge decisions that will shape our community for the next 5 years! 💰
From your tax bill to park upgrades to road repairs - it all gets decided in the 2026-2030 Financial Plan.
The big question: What direction should staff take when planning how YOUR tax dollars get spent? 🤔
💰 Sets tax rates for residents and businesses
🚌 Plans transit, roads, and infrastructure spending
🏊 Decides on recreation facilities and programs
🏘️ Shapes housing and development policies
🚨 Allocates funds for police, fire, and emergency services
🌳 Budgets for parks, environmental initiatives
📚 Plans library, community center investments
💵 Your property taxes through 2030
🚗 Which roads get fixed and when
🏀 New recreation facilities vs maintaining current ones
🏠 How much growth and development to allow
🚑 Emergency service response times and coverage
🌱 Climate action and environmental protection funding
What should be the TOP priority for our city's spending over the next 5 years - keeping taxes low, investing in infrastructure upgrades, or expanding services?
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NEXT STEPS 🗺️
📅 Council meets: October 6, 2025 🗣️ Your voice matters: This is the PERFECT time to influence long-term planning
How to participate: • Attend the council meeting • Submit written feedback • Contact your councillor
Don't wait - once staff gets direction, the major framework is set! 🚨
Downtown Closure for Remembrance Day?
🇨🇦 Should downtown close for Remembrance Day?
The Royal Canadian Legion is seeking approval to temporarily close Washington Street for their annual ceremony honoring our veterans and fallen soldiers.
Council will decide on this community request at their upcoming meeting.
🎖️ Royal Canadian Legion Branch #14 organizing annual ceremony
📅 November 11th, 2025 from 10:30-11:30 AM
🚶♂️ March from Legion hall to cenotaph at library
⌚ 20-minute ceremony honoring veterans and fallen soldiers
👥 Expecting 200 community members to attend
🏢 All volunteer, not-for-profit organization
🚗 Temporary closure of Washington Street (Columbia to First Ave)
🗺️ Use of cenotaph courtyard outside Rossland Library
🙲 City providing 8 traffic barricades and No Parking signs
🛡️ Legion obtaining liability insurance for the event
⏱️ Total disruption less than 3 hours including setup
🗺️ Already have highway permit for Columbia Avenue portion
Do you support temporarily closing Washington Street to allow the Royal Canadian Legion to hold their Remembrance Day ceremony honoring our veterans? How do you balance community remembrance with traffic convenience?
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📅 Next Steps:
Council will vote on this request at their upcoming meeting. This is your opportunity to:
• Share your thoughts on supporting community remembrance events • Voice concerns about temporary traffic impacts • Show support for veteran recognition in our community
The ceremony would honor all who served and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
🏛️ $70 Billion Merger Needs Council's Opinion?
Council is being asked to write a letter of support to the federal Minister regarding the Teck-Anglo American merger into "Anglo Teck."
This would create the world's 5th largest copper producer and BC's largest corporation ever. But should local government take positions on private business deals? 🤔
🏭 Anglo Teck would become one of the world's largest critical minerals companies
🇨🇦 Global headquarters and senior management staying in Canada
⚡ Major producer of copper, zinc, iron ore for clean energy transition
🌍 Operations span Canada, US, Chile, Peru, and South Africa
💼 Largest corporation ever to be headquartered in British Columbia
"The BC Chamber of Commerce officially endorses the announced merger... Views the transaction as a significant advancement for Canada's economic strength and global competitiveness"— BC Chamber of Commerce to Minister Joly
Should Council write a letter supporting the Anglo Teck merger to the federal Minister? What factors should they consider when taking positions on corporate business deals?
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📅 Council will decide on this motion at their next meeting
🗣️ Have your say: Contact Council before the meeting or attend to share your views on whether municipal government should take positions on corporate mergers
📧 Submit comments through the city website or attend the meeting in person