ANNUAL REPORT For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 2023
City of Chilliwack British Columbia, Canada 2023 Annual Municipal Report For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023 PREPARED BY THE CITY OF CHILLIWACK FINANCE DEPARTMENT 8550 YOUNG ROAD ~ CHILLIWACK, BC ~ V2P 8A4
TERRITORY ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The City of Chilliwack acknowledges that we are honoured to live, work, and play on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Stó:lō Coast Salish peoples. Stó:lō Welcome Figures Tourism Chilliwack
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK 7 Table of Contents Introduction City Snapshot...........................................................................................10 Message from the Mayor......................................................................11 Organizational Chart..............................................................................13 City Council...............................................................................................14 Boards & Committees.............................................................................15 2023 Highlights.......................................................................................16 Council’s Strategic Goals.......................................................................18 Department Overviews Administration.........................................................................................41 Communications ....................................................................................42 Corporate Services.................................................................................43 Development & Regulatory Enforcement Services (DARES) ........44 Engineering..............................................................................................46 Finance ......................................................................................................49 Fire Protection .........................................................................................50 Information Technology .......................................................................52 Planning ...................................................................................................53 Public Safety & Social Development ..................................................55 Public Works & Parks Operations ........................................................56 Recreation & Culture..............................................................................57 Utility Operations ...................................................................................58 Subsidiaries Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation (CEPCO) .....................60 Tourism Chilliwack Inc...........................................................................63 Statistical Information Statistical Comparisons.........................................................................65 Permissive Tax Exemptions...................................................................73 2023 Audited Financial Statements KPMG LLP Auditor’s Report...................................................................77 Consolidated Statement of: - Financial Position.............................................................................80 - Operations & Accumulated Surplus............................................81 - Change in Net Financial Assets....................................................82 - Cash Flows.........................................................................................83 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements...................................84 Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation (CEPCO)......................95 Tourism Chilliwack Inc. .......................................................................113 Views from Qoqó:lem Trail City Staff
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK 9 Introduction City Snapshot Message from the Mayor Organizational Chart City Council Boards & Committees 2023 Highlights Council’s Strategic Goals Mr. Scoops at Bill Kelly Park Chilliwack City Staff
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK CITY OF CHILLIWACK I 2023 Annual Report 10 11 City Snapshot Message from the Mayor Located in the heart of the Fraser Valley, British Columbia *103,500 *$739,108 Average House Price 66% Curbside Waste Diversion Rate 7 Off Leash Dog Areas 42,800 acres Farmland 618 New Business Licences Issued $274M Building Permit Construction Values * Source: Chilliwack and District Real Estate Board (CADREB) Image designed using resources by Freepik.com Image designed using resources by Freepik.com Image designed using resources by Freepik.com Image designed using resources by Freepik.com Image designed using resources by Freepik.com I am pleased to present the 2023 Annual Report for the City of Chilliwack on behalf of Council. In this report you will find important information about City operations, including a financial overview, accomplishments and progress made on Council’s strategic goals. I hope that, through this report, you will learn more about the work we do to support a strong city, and where we plan to go next. 2023 featured a milestone for the City of Chilliwack, as we acknowledged the 150th anniversary of the City’s incorporation with public art and community events. A number of new community amenities were also completed, including novice pump tracks at Vedder and Jinkerson Parks, dog off-leash areas in Crimson Ridge, Jinkerson, and Fairfield Parks, the Little Mountain Stairs, and Qoqó:lem Park. We took steps to improve accessibility in some of our parks, adding an accessible playground at the Landing, and a rubber surface to the playground at Yarrow Pioneer Park. Like all communities, we faced climate-related challenges in 2023. In the summer, we moved to stage 4 water restrictions to conserve water during prolonged, province-wide drought conditions. We are grateful for the community’s willingness to adapt to changing conditions, and we continue to take steps to address climate change through projects like the waste heat recovery system installed this year. This new system pipes excess heat from the Coliseum to the Landing Leisure Centre in order to heat the aquatic area. We also added electric vehicle charging stations to six locations around the city, totaling sixteen level 2 charging ports and two level 3 charging ports. Commuting along Vedder Road became a little easier this year, as we wrapped up the upgrades to the Vedder and South Sumas intersection. Out on the roads, our street sweeping team gained a new member in Sweeperella, the City’s new bike lane sweeper, named thanks to your suggestions and votes. Downtown, we opened a new parking lot on Princess Avenue, and began another lot on Victoria Avenue. What we achieved in 2023 would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of Council, advisory committee members, volunteers, City staff, and you, the citizens of Chilliwack. Thank you to anyone who called, emailed, took a survey, left a comment, participated in a public hearing, or attended a meeting this year. We look forward to hearing from even more of you in the future as we work to make Chilliwack a community where all residents have the opportunity to thrive. Enjoy the read! Mayor Ken Popove * Estimated. Population
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK 13 Deputy Chief Administrative Officer (DCAO) David Blain RCMP Officer in Charge Superintendent Davy Lee Director of Finance Glen Savard Director of Public Safety & Social Development Karen Stanton Director of Information Technology Erik Leidekker Director of Corporate Services Jennifer Hahn Fire Chief Ian Josephson Director of Planning Gillian Villeneuve Director of Recreation & Culture David Blain Director of Communications Jamie Leggatt Director of Development & Regulatory Enforcement Glen White Director of Engineering Kara Jefford Director of Utility Operations Sandy Hamilton Corporate Project Manager Eric Dyck Mayor Ken Popove Councillors Chris Kloot Jason Lum Bud Mercer Nicole Read Jeff Shields Harv Westeringh Director of Public Works & Parks Joe Koczkur Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Chris Crosman Organizational Chart Buzzing into Summer Flowers Chilliwack City Staff
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK CITY OF CHILLIWACK I 2023 Annual Report 14 15 City Council Mayor Ken Popove Councillor Chris Kloot Councillor Jason Lum Councillor Bud Mercer Councillor Jeff Shields Councillor Harv Westeringh Chilliwack City Council includes the Mayor and six Councillors who are elected for a four-year term. Members of the current City Council were elected in October 2022 and took office on November 1, 2022. Councillor Nicole Read Boards & Committees Affordable Housing and Development Advisory Committee Councillor Harv Westeringh (Chair) Councillor Bud Mercer (Vice Chair) Agricultural and Rural Advisory Committee Councillor Chris Kloot (Chair) Councillor Harv Westeringh (Vice-Chair) Accessibility and Inclusion Advisory Committee Councillor Jason Lum (Chair) Councillor Jeff Shields (Vice-Chair) Chilliwack Business Improvement Association (BIA) Councillor Jeff Shields (Liaison) Chilliwack Arts and Cultural Centre Society Board Councillor Jeff Shields (Liaison) Chilliwack Community Advisory Board (Reaching Home) Mayor Ken Popove Councillor Harv Westeringh Chilliwack Community Safety Governance Committee Councillor Bud Mercer (Chair) Clint Hames, Former Chilliwack City Mayor (Vice-Chair) Mayor Ken Popove Chilliwack Creative Commission Councillor Jason Lum (Liaison) Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation Mayor Ken Popove (Ex-Officio) Councillor Nicole Read (Liaison) Chilliwack Healthier Community Mayor Ken Popove (Chair) Councillor Jeff Shields (Alternate) Chilliwack Parks and Trails Advisory Committee Councillor Bud Mercer (Chair) Councillor Harv Westeringh (Vice-Chair) Design Review Advisory Committee Councillor Chris Kloot (Chair) Councillor Bud Mercer (Vice-Chair) Emergency Executive Committee Mayor Ken Popove (Chair) Councillor Jason Lum Councillor Chris Kloot Fraser Valley Aboriginal Relations Committee Mayor Ken Popove Councillor Jeff Shields (Alternate) Fraser Valley Regional District Board Mayor Ken Popove Councillor Jason Lum Councillor Chris Kloot Councillor Bud Mercer Councillor Nicole Read (First Alternate) Councillor Jeff Shields (Second Alternate) Councillor Harv Westeringh (Third Alternate) Fraser Valley Regional Hospital Board Mayor Ken Popove Councillor Jason Lum Councillor Chris Kloot Councillor Bud Mercer Councillor Nicole Read (First Alternate) Councillor Jeff Shields (Second Alternate) Councillor Harv Westeringh (Third Alternate) Fraser Valley Regional Library Councillor Nicole Read Mayor Ken Popove (Alternate) Heritage Advisory Committee Councillor Nicole Read (Chair) Councillor Bud Mercer (Vice-Chair) Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel Councillor Jeff Shields Councillor Harv Westeringh Councillor Bud Mercer Public Art Advisory Committee Councillor Nicole Read (Chair) Councillor Harv Westeringh (Vice-Chair) Public Safety Advisory Committee Councillor Bud Mercer (Chair) Councillor Nicole Read (Vice-Chair) Tourism Chilliwack Councillor Harv Westeringh (Liaison) Transportation Advisory Committee Councillor Jeff Shields (Chair) Councillor Jason Lum (Vice-Chair)
CITY OF CHILLIWACK I 2023 Annual Report 16 2023 HIGHLIGHTS GOOD STEWARDSHIP OF MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE y Replaced 450 metres of aging cast iron pipes. y Replaced 580 lineal metres of aging downtown stormwater drainage pipe. y Upgraded the Vedder and South Sumas Road intersection to accomodate traffic volumes. y Completed construction of Promontory Zone 2 Reservoir and Zone 2 & 3 Booster Pump Stations. ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP y Planted 3,800 trees along Camp Slough, Hope Slough, Bell Slough, and Chilliwack Creek. y Achieved a curbside diversion rate of 66% and reduced curbside recycling contamination rate from 6.2% to 4.8%. y Introduced a Book Recycling Program at the Bailey Landfill Recycling Depot. y Converted 1,738 streetlights to long lasting LED fixtures. STRONG NEIGHBOURHOODS y Installed accessible play structure in Yarrow Pioneer Park. y Completed the Little Mountain Nature Park Trail loop. y Completed Qoqó:lem Trail and Park at Vedder Mountain. y Completed the Bill Kelly playground at The Landing. COMMUNITY SAFETY y Provided fire safety and emergency preparedness sessions to more than 1,300 people. y Worked with First Nations on flood preparedness. y Recruited and trained five additional Emergency Support Services (ESS) volunteers. y Added two electric bicycles to the Bylaw department to facilitate more efficient patrols. VIBRANT ECONOMY y Enhanced crosswalks with pedestrian activated flashing beacons at seven locations in the downtown area. y Completed downtown parking lot on Princess Avenue with electric vehicle chargers and landscaping improvements. Chilliwack Curling & Community Centre Chilliwack City Staff
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK CITY OF CHILLIWACK I 2023 Annual Report 18 19 COUNCIL’S STRATEGIC GOALS Council’s strategic goals provide a framework for the decisions made by Council and guide the City’s approach for delivering services to the community. Financial Stability Plan for current and anticipated community needs while maintaining reasonable property tax levels for taxpayers. Good Stewardship of Municipal Infrastructure Ensure proactive and preventative maintenance of roads, utility, water systems, civic facilities, municipal fleet, and other municipal infrastructure to maximize life span. Environmental Stewardship Encourage waste diversion and a "zero waste" philosophy, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gases while protecting waterways, riparian zones and airsheds. Strong Neighbourhoods Support accessibility, inclusion, diversity and truth and reconciliation. Fostering community spirit, attracting community events and supporting cultural groups, while providing high-quality parks and recreational opportunities. Vibrant Economy Work to create an environment that is positive for business creation, and contract with CEPCO for economic development. Connected Community Provide opportunities to hear from the community, meet with other levels of government and share information throughout the community. Organizational Excellence Employ recruitment strategies that focus on attracting the best workforce, while providing opportunity for internal advancement. Provide focus on workplace safety and on-site training while encouraging ongoing professional development. Customer Service Ensure employees receive customer service training in order to provide excellent and efficient service to the public. Community Safety Offer a wide range of services to support safety and sense of belonging in the community. Support RCMP initiatives and improvements in traffic safety. STRATEGIC GOAL #1: FINANCIAL STABILITY Plan for current and anticipated community needs while maintaining reasonable property tax levels for taxpayers. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 ADDRESS COMMUNITY NEEDS Prepare for anticipated and unanticipated community needs. Completed the annual update of our long-term Comprehensive Municipal Plan, outlining short-term priorities and anticipated long-term needs. Planning and funding strategies are built into the Comprehensive Municipal Plan for projects that may be eligible for future infrastructure grants to ensure municipal funding portions remain in place. BALANCED BUDGET Fund planned capital expenditures without longterm borrowing debt and identify grant opportunities. All capital expenditures funded without long-term debt in the 2023 Comprehensive Municipal Plan. Completed successful applications for available government grant funding programs, to help offset project costs. Ongoing grant research for eligible project opportunities. REASONABLE PROPERTY TAXATION Maintain reasonable property tax levels and ensure new growth pays for itself. Chilliwack continues to have a low business class property tax multiplier. Chilliwack maintains the lowest general municipal taxation levy, on a representative home, when compared to 19 Lower Mainland communities surveyed. With the inclusion of water, sewer and curbside waste collection fees, Chilliwack’s total fees are lower by an even greater margin, while providing vast services and amenities. Reviewed Development Cost Charge (DCC) Bylaw and amended rates accordingly to ensure growth-driven capital needs are completed and funded by DCCs where eligible.
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK CITY OF CHILLIWACK I 2023 Annual Report 20 21 STRATEGIC GOAL #2: GOOD STEWARDSHIP OF MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE Ensure proactive and preventative maintenance of roads, utility, water systems, civic facilities, municipal fleet, and other municipal infrastructure to maximize life span. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 ROAD AND UTILITY SYSTEM MAINTENANCE Maintain utility systems, minimize service delivery interruptions and meet pavement quality index goals for roadways. Ongoing investment in the road rehabilitation program, resulting in seven kilometres of roads repaved. Completed and updated survey and report for the City’s current road pavement conditions and maintenance methodology to supplement the asphalt rehabilitation program Replaced approximately 450 metres of aging cast iron pipes. Completed inspections of 26 road culverts to ensure safe condition and ongoing maintenance of assets. Upgraded the Vedder and South Sumas Road intersection to better accommodate traffic volumes and improve intersection safety. Constructed a multi-use path, with two flashing crosswalks and new streetlighting, on Chilliwack River Road to improve active transportation safety. Upgraded railway crossing signals on Yarrow Central and Vedder Roads to meet new Transport Canada regulations. Maintenance of surface infrastructure at ten railway crossings. Replaced two aging traffic signal controllers and completed one full traffic signal upgrade. Installed back-up battery systems at two signalized intersections in the event of power outages. Design and permitting of Wastewater Treatment Plan outfall rehabilitation underway. Completed construction of Promontory Zone 2 Reservoir and Zone 2 and Zone 3 Booster Pump Stations. Completed installation of a temporary centrifuge facility at the Wastewater Treatment Plant to improve bio-solids removal and management. Replaced 580 lineal metres of aging downtown stormwater drainage pipe. Procured a stormwater infrastructure master plan to evaluate the condition of the storm drainage network and to identify infrastructure replacement needs and funding requirements. Repaired sections of Hope River Road and Camp River Road embankment and roadway damaged by flooding. Planted 4,500 new trees along sections of Hope River and Camp River Roads. STRATEGIC GOAL #2 CONTINUED: GOOD STEWARDSHIP OF MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE Ensure proactive and preventative maintenance of roads, utility, water systems, civic facilities, municipal fleet, and other municipal infrastructure to maximize life span. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 MUNICIPAL FACILITY AND FLEET MAINTENANCE Extend the life of buildings by funding repairs and maintenance in a timely manner. Maintain fleet for optimal performance and life span. Regular maintenance and roof inspections completed. Major stage lighting system upgrade at Cultural Centre. New lighting, paint, and layout in the weight room, plus a new divider curtain and refinished floor in the gym at Cheam Leisure Centre. Installed new ultraviolet system for disinfecting the pool water and replaced sand filter media at the Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre. Completed the restoration and finishing of the hardwood flooring in Evergreen Hall. Completed new addition to City Hall. Completed interior painting at Evergreen Hall. Continued the replacement of older fitness and gym equipment at the Cheam Leisure Centre and Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre. 527 heavy duty vehicles/equipment serviced and inspected. Completed over 1,855 repairs and preventative maintenance work orders for equipment and fleet. WATER QUALITY Ensure an adequate water supply and maintain potable water standards. Stage 2, 3, and 4 summer watering restrictions implemented, and extended to October 15, to conserve water during drought conditions. Water samples tested weekly and quarterly through a drinking water quality testing program for a variety of parameters. Completed the semi-annual water main flushing, reservoir cleaning and production well repairs. Completed the East Chilliwack groundwater supply feasibility study and exploratory well drilling investigation.
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK CITY OF CHILLIWACK I 2023 Annual Report 22 23 STRATEGIC GOAL #2 CONTINUED: GOOD STEWARDSHIP OF MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE Ensure proactive and preventative maintenance of roads, utility, water systems, civic facilities, municipal fleet, and other municipal infrastructure to maximize life span. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 FLOOD PROTECTION Maintain dikes to provincial standards, ensure adequate drainage and maximize funding opportunities. Signed Memorandum of Understanding with Sqwá First Nation and Shxwhá:y Village to confirm alignment for a new dike to expand the flood protection area for all three communities. Signed an agreement together with the province, Semá:th, Matsqui and Leq’á:mel First Nations, and City of Abbotsford to make Sumas Prairie more resilient to flooding. 47,000 linear channel metres of drainage watercourses, plus three shale traps, were cleaned with approval from Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship. All dikes, pump stations and flood boxes inspected and maintained prior to high winter stream flows. Annual 2023 dike inspection reports submitted to BC Inspector of Dikes, as per the provincial Dike Maintenance Act requirements. Flood Response Plans for the Fraser River and Vedder River are updated annually to provide protocol for monitoring and responding to emergency conditions from high water levels on the respective rivers, under the City of Chilliwack’s Emergency Response Plan. Supported provincial agencies and their consultants as they plan to carry out additional sediment removals in 2024 to address the 440,000 m3 that deposited during the 2021 atmospheric river events. Received funding through UBCM for the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund Disaster Risk Education funding stream for the Chilliwack Creek Drainage Pump Station Upgrade – Preliminary Engineering Design. Upgraded three aging culverts with new concrete culverts to improve flow and prevent floodwater backup. Procured the development of a city-wide urban drainage stormwater model to identify deficiencies in the systems and to inform future capital plans. Advanced a study focusing on surface water flooding and mitigation in a Chilliwack Proper neighbourhood. Began a stormwater infrastructure master asset study to gain condition data and prioritize future stormwater utility upgrades. STRATEGIC GOAL #3: ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP Encourage waste diversion and a "zero waste" philosophy, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gases while protecting waterways, riparian zones and airsheds. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 PROTECT WATERWAYS AND RIPARIAN AREAS Enhance fish habitat and maintain Riparian Areas Protection Regulation standards. Collaborated with First Nations communities, local businesses and community volunteers to remove invasive species and replant native trees and shrubs along creeks. Mitigative measures undertaken to preserve and enhance fish habitats during open channel drainage maintenance. Completed an environmental and hydraulic study to identify opportunities for water quality, flow and habitat improvement in the Bell Slough. Collaborated with Fraser Valley Conservancy to enhance habitat for the Oregon Spotted Frog population. Supported biannual Adopt-a-River events and other river cleanups undertaken by volunteers. Completed design for a new culvert crossing at Bell Slough to improve fish habitat. WASTE DIVERSION Achieve a 75% curbside program waste diversion rate by 2025, promote a "zero waste" philosophy and maximize recycling initiatives. Achieved curbside diversion rate of 66%, to date. Zero waste initiatives undertaken including curbside recycling and compostable waste programs, Household Hazardous Waste Day, CityWide Garage Sales and Shred-A-Thon events. Curbside recycling contamination rate reduced from 6.2% to 4.8% through weekly recycling audits and education programs. Introduced a Book Recycling Program at the Bailey Landfill Recycling Depot. Assisted Fraser Valley Regional District in meeting region-wide separation requirements for recycling and compostable materials through source separation requirements for all properties in Chilliwack and enforcement of surcharges on loads of garbage containing more than 25% compostable waste at the Bailey Landfill. Single-Use Item Reduction Bylaw increased minimum fees for paper bags to $0.25 and reusable bags to $2.00 as per provincial regulation. Promoted Waste Diversion Kits for event hosts, to provide threestream collection bins for garbage, recycling, and compost. Environmental Educational Campaign for local elementary schools to promote stewardship and create Champions of the Environment.
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK CITY OF CHILLIWACK I 2023 Annual Report 24 25 STRATEGIC GOAL #3 CONTINUED: ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP Encourage waste diversion and a "zero waste" philosophy, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gases while protecting waterways, riparian zones and airsheds. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 AIR QUALITY Protect the airshed, measure greenhouse gas emissions and implement energy efficiency opportunities where feasible. Followed the provincial Agricultural Environmental Management Code of Practice. Commenced implementation of the Corporate and Community Climate Action Plans. Utilized methane from Wastewater Treatment Plant to run biogas boiler to heat anaerobic digesters. Extracted landfill gas at the Bailey Landfill through horizontal gas collectors and vertical wells. Completed the Radon Test Kit Challenge by providing residents with 400 free test kits and then reporting the results in partnership with Take Action on Radon, the BC Lung Foundation and Fraser Valley Regional District. Worked with the Ministry of Environment to respond to air quality complaints. Enforced the Open Burning Bylaw and promoted alternatives to burning to reduce smoke. Continued design and construction work recommended by the Active Transportation Plan to encourage more active modes of transportation. Completed installation of 22 electric vehicle charging port stations in seven locations within the City. Amended contract terms to include Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement and Warm Mix Asphalt for paving projects, reducing greenhouse gases and waste materials. STRATEGIC GOAL #3 CONTINUED: ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP Encourage waste diversion and a "zero waste" philosophy, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gases while protecting waterways, riparian zones and airsheds. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 SUSTAINABILITY Explore renewable energy opportunities, facilitate sustainable transportation and prepare long-term plan for landfill. Provided free transit for Canada Day and supported implementation for provincially mandated free transit for children under 12. Converted 867 streetlights from High Pressure Sodium (HPS) to more energy efficient and longer lasting LED fixtures. Continued converting lighting to LED at Fire Hall #1, Townsend Park, Cheam Leisure Centre and Heritage Park. Received grant approval and installed a heat pump and energy transfer system to capture waste heat from Chilliwack Coliseum and transfer it to Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre, resulting in an estimated reduction to City’s greenhouse gas emissions by 553 tonnes (11.6%) per year. Completed installation of 22 electric vehicle charging port stations in seven locations. Continued to install solar-powered Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) crosswalks. Changed construction standards to greater efficiency LED street lighting and traffic signals. Installed storm drainage infiltration systems to support groundwater recharge. Continued design and construction work recommended by the Active Transportation Plan for sidewalks, multi-use pathways and protected bike lanes. Completed pre-feasibility study on additional sustainable water supply sources. Utilized Local Government Climate Action Program funding to support home energy upgrade rebates through the CleanBC Better Homes program and fund active transportation projects. Converted conventional building thermostats to smart controlled devices. Installed new LED field lights at Exhibition Field.
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK CITY OF CHILLIWACK I 2023 Annual Report 26 27 STRATEGIC GOAL #4: STRONG NEIGHBOURHOODS Support accessibility, inclusion, diversity and truth and reconciliation. Fostering community spirit, attracting community events and supporting cultural groups, while providing high-quality parks and recreational opportunities. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 COMMUNITY CULTURE Foster community spirit by attracting community events and supporting cultural groups, community organizations and public art initiatives. Funded a large number of block parties and neighbourhood gatherings through the Celebration and Activity Grant Program. The Chilliwack Public Art Advisory Committee continued to support public art initiatives. Community Development Initiatives policy funded a number of community non-profit service providers. PARKS AND TRAILS Provide and enhance quality parks and recreational opportunities. Installation started on a new multi-use gaming area (MUGA) at Jinkerson Park. Upgraded the outdoor fitness area in Yarrow Pioneer Park. Installed off-leash dog areas at Jinkerson Park and Fairfield Park. Installed accessible rubber surface in Yarrow Pioneer Park playground. Two parks added to the Parks inventory: Weeden Park and Crimson Ridge Park. Branding and signage upgrades began on the Vedder Greenway. Continued work with Fraser Valley Regional District to enhance regional connections in Chilliwack. Completed phase 1 of the Hope River Trail, from Chartwell Drive to Kinsmen Park, to create a looping opportunity for Little Mountain trails. Construction began on a new play structure at Sardis Park, featuring accessible play features for children ages 2-5. Novice pump tracks added to Jinkerson Park and Vedder Park. Completed the Little Mountain Nature Park Trail loop. Completed Qoqó:lem Trail and Park at Vedder Mountain. Installed a drinking fountain at Townsend Park. Completed parking lot upgrades at Meadowbrook Park. Completed upgrades to west end parking lot at Townsend Park. Expanded the parking lot at Yarrow Community Centre. Completed the Bill Kelly playground at the Landing. Completed new parking lot at the Landing. STRATEGIC GOAL #4 CONTINUED: STRONG NEIGHBOURHOODS Support accessibility, inclusion, diversity and truth and reconciliation. Fostering community spirit, attracting community events and supporting cultural groups, while providing high-quality parks and recreational opportunities. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 INCLUSIVENESS Identify and support projects and programs that nurture accessibility, inclusion and diversity. Continued implementation of the Mayor’s Task Force on Inclusiveness, Diversity and Accessibility Action Plan. Developed the Accessibility and Inclusion Advisory Committee. Installed new fully accessible change room and completed other accessibility upgrades at the Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre. Installed a new elevator at the Landing Sports Centre for accessibility. Supported Pink Shirt Day. Continued to utilize alternative text on social media to make images more accessible. Continued to update accessible signage, including parking signs, with a new symbol of access from the Accessible Icon Project. Provided funding for inclusive events through Community Development Initiatives funding and the Neighbourhood Grant Program. The new addition to City Hall met or exceeded current accessibility standards. Installed new accessible doors at existing City Hall building. Continued to make accessible sidewalk and crosswalk improvements, including the installation of curb letdowns and five new audible crosswalks. Chilliwack City Council supported and funded the Downtown Chilliwack Business Improvement Association’s Pride and Veterans banner program. Playground accessibility improvements were included within the 10-year Comprehensive Municipal Plan.
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK CITY OF CHILLIWACK I 2023 Annual Report 28 29 STRATEGIC GOAL #4 CONTINUED: STRONG NEIGHBOURHOODS Support accessibility, inclusion, diversity and truth and reconciliation. Fostering community spirit, attracting community events and supporting cultural groups, while providing high-quality parks and recreational opportunities. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION Build relationships of mutual respect and understanding with local First Nations. Relationship building continues at the Council level. Ongoing support for Chilliwack Healthier Community and the Opening Doors Task Team. Indigenous led training supported through Reaching Home. Supported Experience Indigenous Culture and Knowledge Day through Chilliwack Healthier Community. Staff utilized the Indigenous author library to further their education and understanding. Honoured the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Staff and Council have continued their education with courses including Historical Impacts Training through Stó:lō Nation, as well as attending Community to Community forums. Partnered with Skowkale First Nation to install new speed reader boards on Chilliwack River Road, with funding support from Fraser Health. Completed construction on a new multi-use pathway, including lighting and drainage, on Chilliwack River Road from Promontory Road to Bailey Road, in partnership with Tzeachten First Nation. Continued working with S.A.Y. Lands on the design of a new multi-use pathway, featuring lighting and drainage, along Knight Road from Chilliwack River Road to the Valley Rail Trail. Signed Memorandum of Understanding with Sqwá First Nation and Shxwhá:y Village to confirm alignment for a new dike to expand the flood protection area for all three communities. Signed an agreement together with the province, Semá:th, Matsqui and Leq’á:mel First Nations, and City of Abbotsford to make Sumas Prairie more resilient to flooding. STRATEGIC GOAL #5: VIBRANT ECONOMY Contract with CEPCO for economic development and encouragement of development in the downtown area. Work to create an environment that is positive to business creation. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 OPEN FOR BUSINESS Attract and maintain business. Worked with CEPCO to set mutual priorities for economic development. Continued to provide low business property taxes and fees compared to other Lower Mainland communities to attract and retain business within the city. Participating member of the Inter-Municipal Transportation Network Business Licence program for ride hailing services. Uber began service to the city with additional ride hailing services anticipated in the future. Promoted Industrial Revitalization Tax Exemption Bylaw to attract business expansion and reinvestment within the community. Worked with the Chilliwack Economic Resource Network to develop and facilitate strategies to assist and support local businesses. PLANNING Ensure plans are in place to facilitate regional growth predictions. Chilliwack's Official Community Plan and Comprehensive Municipal Plan continue to accommodate regional growth. Created an R1-C (Urban Infill) Rezoning Process policy to guide development of infill areas through rezoning and future subdivisions. Began implementation of the Heritage Strategic Action Plan with a review of the 1991 Heritage Inventory. Applied for the Housing Accelerator Fund: a competitive grant program from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation intended to help speed up housing development and increase housing supply.
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK CITY OF CHILLIWACK I 2023 Annual Report 30 31 STRATEGIC GOAL #5 CONTINUED: VIBRANT ECONOMY Contract with CEPCO for economic development and encouragement of development in the downtown area. Work to create an environment that is positive to business creation. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 TOURISM Maintain, enhance and promote Chilliwack's natural beauty and walkability. Enhanced crosswalks with pedestrian activated flashing beacons at seven locations in the downtown area. Continued to implement improvements identified in the Cycle Vision and Active Transportation Plans to create connectivity with existing trails and facilities. DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION Encourage redevelopment in the downtown area. Revitalization tax exemptions available to promote business reinvestment in the downtown core. Multi-phase downtown redevelopment at District 1881 is nearly complete with a number of commercial businesses operating successfully within the site. Completed storm sewer upgrades on Williams Road and Yale Road to support redevelopment in the downtown area. Constructed new parking lots at Victoria Avenue and Princess Avenue, including electric vehicle charging stations, streetlights and landscaping. Completed road rehabilitation on several downtown streets: • Yale Road – Williams Street to Charles Street, • Williams Street – Reece Avenue to Yale Road, • Butchart Street – Chilliwack Central Road to McCaffrey Boulevard, • Pearson Street – Chilliwack Central Road to McCaffrey Boulevard, • Lombardy Crescent, • Elm Street – Chilliwack Central Road to Norrish Avenue, • McCaffrey Boulevard – Broadway to Cornwall Crescent. Approved public art to continue to enhance the downtown area. STRATEGIC GOAL #6: CONNECTED COMMUNITY Provide opportunities to hear from the community, meet with other levels of government and share information throughout the community. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 SHARE INFORMATION Make timely and accurate information available to the community. Over 50 print ads placed and six radio campaigns run to communicate information. 31 press releases issued. Responded to more than 203 media enquiries. Shared monthly e-newsletters about general City news and transportation projects. City website updated regularly. Information shared through the City's Facebook and Twitter accounts five days a week. The City has 16,103 Facebook and 8,536 Twitter followers. Created brochures and community information campaigns about water conservation and responsible wastewater management. Provided education and service alerts through the Curbside Collection app, which has over 25,000 users. Updated brochures and webpages about Building Protection for commercial developments and redevelopment applications. Engaged a consultant to prepare neighbourhood profiles that summarize demographic data in easy to read brochures. RELATIONSHIPS Build and maintain relationships with other governments, organizations, and the community. Continued to build relationships with the development community. Ongoing dialogue between City elected officials and other municipal, provincial, federal and First Nations officials.
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK CITY OF CHILLIWACK I 2023 Annual Report 32 33 STRATEGIC GOAL #6 CONTINUED: CONNECTED COMMUNITY Provide opportunities to hear from the community, meet with other levels of government and share information throughout the community. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 COMMUNITY FORUMS Provide platforms for community feedback on major issues. Hosted in-person engagement for water conservation and environmental programs. Hosted an in-person community engagement event for active transportation and road safety. Community feedback was collected online, in-person, via email, mail and phone for various initiatives. Surveys conducted for various initiatives. Parks Operations used Engage Chilliwack to receive feedback from residents on future park designs in their neighbourhoods. Utilized online Engage Chilliwack platform for resident input on City Studio projects with the University of the Fraser Valley, naming the City’s bike lane sweeper, the 2024 Financial Plan, and the upcoming curbside contract. Provided opportunities for residents to engage and participate in planning processes and projects, including open houses and rezoning consultations. Partnered with the BC Conservation Officer Service and WildSafe BC to host an information session for residents on waste storage requirements and best practices to reduce conflict with wildlife. Utilized online EngageChilliwack platform to receive input and feedback on budget priorities for the City's Comprehensive Municipal Plan. STRATEGIC GOAL #7: ORGANIZATIONAL EXCELLENCE Employ recruitment strategies that focus on attracting the best workforce, while providing opportunity for internal advancement. Provide focus on workplace safety and on-site training while encouraging ongoing professional development. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 RECRUITMENT Strategize to attract and retain staff. Focus on opportunities for internal advancement for staff. Educational opportunities offered to promote advanced knowledge and qualifications. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Encourage employee development and create opportunities for internal advancement. A combination of virtual and in-person training sessions were completed for a variety of educational courses. Provided refresher courses on important policy information. Provided refresher courses in relation to mental health to frontline workers. Implemented trauma informed workplace training for first responders and staff who work at the RCMP detachment. Continued to provide employer paid psychological services and counselling to all career firefighters. Organized a six-part leadership workshop for all Fire Department career staff. EFFICIENCY Provide fast and efficient service. Concerns and issues followed up on promptly. Maintained efficient turnaround times on approvals for all types of development. Established a web portal that ties into the existing permitting system and cloud-based software associated with building permit applications with funding from the Union of BC Municipalities Local Government Development Approvals Program. Updated the Design Guidelines for Development Permit Area No. 10 (Coach Houses and Garden Suites) to exempt properties in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) and Ryder Lake.
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK CITY OF CHILLIWACK I 2023 Annual Report 34 35 STRATEGIC GOAL #8: CUSTOMER SERVICE Ensure employees receive customer service training in order to provide excellent and efficient service to the public. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 TRAINING Train employees to provide quality customer service. Customer Service Training provided for new staff members. WORKPLACE SAFETY Build and maintain a safe and respectful workplace that minimizes work days lost due to injury. Additional support provided to staff, after an incident, resulting in less Lost Time Incidents and a stronger Return to Work process. Conducted monthly safety meetings to encourage greater staff engagement. Staff from all departments represented on three active Joint Health and Safety Committees. Provided Respectful Conduct in the Workplace training for all staff. Provided training specific to safety-sensitive work including: • Occupational First Aid, • Traffic Control Certification, • Defensive Driving, • Blood Pathogens. Continued certification training for operationally relevant and safety-sensitive courses including: • Fall Protection, • Confined Space Entry and Rescue, • Overhead Crane Operator, • Utility Locating, • Trench and Evacuation, • Forklift. Training conducted by experienced employees to their colleagues expanded for the Operations Department to include: • Crane Operations, • Bucket Truck Operations, • Boom Lift, • Light Duty Snow Plow Operations, • Winter Snow and Ice Control Training. Continued annual hearing tests and respirator fit testing to maintain employee health and safety. Provided further knowledge for psychological safety and health education through poster campaigns, educated toolbox talks, and courses. STRATEGIC GOAL #9: COMMUNITY SAFETY Offer a wide range of services to support safety and sense of belonging in the community. Support RCMP initiatives and improvements in traffic safety. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY Provide effective fire and life safety education to the community and increase safety in multi-family residential buildings and gated communities. Conducted fire safety and emergency preparedness sessions, both virtually and in-person, for 3,059 residents. Community Risk Reduction programs continued to be developed, including the Community Risk Assessment which is currently 80% complete. Continued working with building owners to upgrade fire alarm systems in their multi-family residential buildings. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS Prepare for response and recovery of the City in times of disaster and work with First Nations to integrate emergency plans. Exercised the City’s Emergency Response and Recovery Plan via two tabletop exercises. Trained additional Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) team members in EOC Essentials and Pipeline Spill Response. Focused on understanding and providing comment on the new “BC Emergency and Disaster Management Act” and supporting regulations. Secured approximately $58,000 in grant funding for EOC upgrades and Emergency Support Services (ESS) supplies. Recruited and trained eight additional Emergency Support Services (ESS) volunteers. FIREFIGHTERS Continued firefighter staffing requirement planning and increase quality and quantity of firefighter training and education. Continued to develop and implement the training passport system to support firefighter and fire officer training and professional development. Continued on-site improvements at the fire training centre. Hired one additional full-time career firefighter. Hired one additional fire inspector/public educator. Continued working towards maintaining crews of four firefighters, on Engines 1 and 4, at all times. Trained and equipped career and Paid On-Call firefighters to deliver wildfire suppression. Provided additional training and education to develop career and Paid On-Call firefighters and fire officers.
2023 Annual Report I CITY OF CHILLIWACK CITY OF CHILLIWACK I 2023 Annual Report 36 37 STRATEGIC GOAL #9 CONTINUED: COMMUNITY SAFETY Offer a wide range of services to support safety and sense of belonging in the community. Support RCMP initiatives and improvements in traffic safety. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 TRAFFIC EDUCATION Support road safety initiatives, working with RCMP and ICBC. Continued Safe Roads initiatives that provided motorists, pedestrians and cyclists with road safety knowledge to reduce crash statistics. Hosted the annual Chilliwack Safety Fair, sharing safety tips from community partners with hundreds of community members. Digital pedestrian safety education tools assist all road users in learning about crosswalks, Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon crosswalks, and school crossing guards. A dedicated rail safety web page and regular advertising providing tips and reminders for all road users on safe rail crossing choices. ADDRESS SOCIAL ISSUES Support improved inter-agency coordination and address homelessness. Continued work with the Community Safety Governance Committee to implement the Chilliwack Community Safety Plan. Continued supporting programs to address homelessness, including the establishment of a Wellness Centre (opened in January) offering one-stop health and wellness services, overdose prevention services, and additional supports for outreach. Received additional grant funding through Reaching Home, supporting projects operated by the following organizations to prevent and reduce homelessness: • Cyrus Centre – Indigenous Youth and Youth Outreach. • Salvation Army Homelessness Prevention and Diversion. • Pacific Community Resources Society Housing Hub, Housing and Indigenous Housing Support Facilitators (2); Community Integration and Coordination (Outreach, Situation Table). • Wilma’s Transition Society Homelessness Prevention and Diversion. • Pacific Community Resources Society – Wellness Centre. STRATEGIC GOAL #9 CONTINUED: COMMUNITY SAFETY Offer a wide range of services to support safety and sense of belonging in the community. Support RCMP initiatives and improvements in traffic safety. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2023 SAFE PUBLIC SPACES Improve the safety of parks and public spaces. Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles applied in park and public space upgrades. Continued mobile security patrols: four patrol vehicles worked overnight, and one additional two guard patrol in the downtown and Business Improvement Association area. Night patrols ensured any temporary shelters in parks were removed at the prescribed time. High visibility patrols with RCMP, Bylaw and security conducted throughout the downtown core and various commercial areas. RCMP SUPPORT Support RCMP activities and initiatives and maintain an adequate number of police officers. Health and Safety Inspection Team shut down one controlled substance/marijuana grow operation and conducted 12 health and safety inspections. City staff worked cooperatively with RCMP on trouble buildings and hotspots. Funded three additional members, one support municipal employee and have funded 41 members over the past nine years. Maintained a population to member ratio of under 800. Completed conversion of the former Operations building into additional space for the RCMP Detachment, to better serve the needs of public and staff. BYLAW ENFORCEMENT Provide enhanced bylaw enforcement. Eight full-time Bylaw Officers provided year-round support including evening and weekend coverage. Added two uniformed Assistant Managers to assist with dayto-day bylaw enforcement activities. Four Bylaw Officers completed bicycle training in order to assist with proactive bicycle patrols in the downtown, parks and trails and other hotspot areas. Two electric bicycles were added to the bicycle fleet to facilitate expanded and more efficient patrols. On average, Bylaw Officers had over 1,000 interactions with members of the public each month.
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