Council met Sept. 2 to discuss the following community matters:
Development Permits Approved for Holland Creek Subdivision
Council approved a development variance permit and a development permit for Lot A, Block 192 in the Holland Creek area, enabling the subdivision of the land into three parcels.
The variance adjusts the timing of bylaw requirements for service connections and frontage improvements, allowing subdivision to proceed in advance of full infrastructure installation. However, staff emphasized that complete servicing — including streets, sewer, and water — must be completed before each phase of development begins.
Councillors raised questions about access to future parcels, particularly proposed Lot C, which will eventually connect to Malone Road via an extended Colonia Drive. Staff noted that while a temporary easement allows current access, permanent road dedication will be required before full build-out.
The first phase will focus on multi-family development on Lot A, with staff expecting permit applications to return to council by year-end. Infrastructure improvements including roadwork and emergency access routes are secured through a covenant registered on title.
Budget Approved for Frank Jameson Community Centre
Council approved the Cowichan Valley Regional District’s (CVRD) 2026 budget submission for the Frank Jameson Community Centre (FJCC), which includes a 3.99 per cent increase and a $445,000 supplemental funding request to replace the facility’s roof.
Staff explained that the $900,000 roof replacement will be split between the base budget and the additional $445,000 being requested.
Council sought clarification on staff reassignments at the FJCC, as some employees also work at other town-run facilities. Because those hours aren’t solely tied to FJCC, they no longer qualify for CVRD regional recreation funding and will instead be covered by the town. Staff explained this shift will reduce regional funding and increase the town’s share of staffing costs. The total hours and expenses remain the same.
Council also reviewed differences in program costs at FJCC. Staff explained that aquatic programs, such as public swims, require additional lifeguards as attendance grows. Therefore, expenses increase along with revenue. In contrast, many recreation programs (like fitness or art classes) can accommodate more participants with a single instructor, so revenue can rise without increasing staffing costs.
Bylaws
Council gave first, second, and third readings to Council Procedure Bylaw 2009, No. 1666, Amendment Bylaw 2025, No. 2218, which includes updates to meeting conduct including language prohibiting disrespectful remarks toward members of council, the public, and representatives of government.
Council adopted Town of Ladysmith Election and Assent Voting Bylaw 2018, No. 1964, Amendment Bylaw 2025, No. 2217, which increases the minimum number of nominators for council candidates from two to 10, aligning with recent changes to the Local Government Act.
Regional Emergency Management and Grant Support
Council consented to the CVRD’s Regional Emergency Management Establishment Bylaw 2025, which formalizes a regional approach to emergency response coordination.
Council also agreed to provide a letter of support to the Cassidy Manufactured Home Park Social Committee for their grant application to the New Horizons for Seniors Program, noting that some Ladysmith residents live in the park and would benefit from the funding.
UBCM Meetings Confirmed
Council received a list of confirmed cabinet minister meetings at the upcoming 2025 UBCM convention. Topics include infrastructure, recreation, and regional planning.
Noise Bylaw Exemption Ratified for Dam Work
Council ratified an Aug. 21 electronic vote granting Spider Mountain Excavators Ltd. an exemption from the Noise Suppression Bylaw to allow Sunday work on the Colonia Dam decommissioning project through Sept. 28.
Public input
Two residents addressed council with questions. One asked for clarification on amendments to the Council Procedure Bylaw, specifically how “disrespectful” conduct is defined, who determines what qualifies as such, whether the rule applies outside council meetings, and what consequences could follow. The mayor said she would consult with staff before providing clarification.
Another resident sought clarity on the funding arrangement for the Frank Jameson Community Centre roof replacement. Staff explained that half of the $900,000 project fits within the existing CVRD recreation budget allocation, while the remaining $455,000 is being requested as a supplemental item. The mayor noted she is working with the CVRD to better understand how shared recreation funding functions and will share that information with the public once confirmed.
