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Sparwood Council Facts
The following is a synopsis of what occurred during the May 1 District of Sparwood council meeting.
Delegation
Access Management Compliance & Enforcement Program (AMCEP)
Patricia Burley from the B.C. Conservation Officer Service provided an overview of the Access Management Compliance and Enforcement Program. The program focuses on environmental compliance and enforcement in the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) Electoral Area A Access Management Areas (AMAs). The use of motorized vehicles in prohibited areas continues to be a problem. Ms. Burley noted that Grave Prairie (pictured) has substantial grassland and environmental damage. More information on Access Management in the Kootenay Region is available HERE.
Ms. Burley advised that grizzly bears have been out for a month now and there have been several sightings of black bears but none of them have been within municipal boundaries.
Business
Development Variance Permits
141B Aspen Drive
Council authorized notices to be sent out to owners and occupants residing within 60m of 141B Aspen Drive (Sparwood Museum) to advise them that they will be considering varying a section of the Sign Bylaw at the June 5 regular meeting. The variance, if approved, will permit two freestanding signs on the lot.
628 Sparwood Drive
Council authorized notices to be sent out to owners and occupants residing within 60 m of 628 Sparwood Drive (Alpine Lumber) to advise them that they will be considering varying a section of the Zoning Bylaw at the June 5 regular meeting. The variance, if approved, will reduce front, side and rear yard setbacks.
If you believe you will be affected by either of these variances and wish to share comments with council prior to their consideration, you will be provided an opportunity to be heard at the June 5 council meeting, or you may submit your comments in writing to the District of Sparwood, Box 520, Sparwood, B.C., V0B 2G0 or by email to [email protected] before 10 a.m. on Monday, June 5.
Canadian Pacific Railway
Council authorized a Licence of Occupation (LoO) between the Canadian Pacific Railway Corporation (CPR) and the District of Sparwood for a portion of District road right-of-way at the end of Lions Park Place, near the CP Bunkhouse for staff parking. The LoO is for a 12-month term at a rate of $500 per month (totalling $6,000). CPR is relocating the marshalling area for approximately 75 employees to Sparwood from Cranbrook and this LoO will provide a parking area for their employeesâ personal vehicles.
Bylaws
Financial Plan Bylaw
Financial Plan (2017-2021) Bylaw 1204, 2017 was given first three readings. The Financial Plan sets out the objectives and policies of the municipality for the years 2017-2021 for each of the funding sources, the distribution of property value taxes and the use of permissive tax exemptions. The plan sets out the proposed expenditures by the municipality, funding sources and transfers between funds.
Tax Rates Bylaw
Tax Rates Bylaw 1205, 2017 was given first three readings.  The property tax rates for general municipal were set to provide an average three per cent increase over the previous year for residential tax levies.  This three per cent increase in municipal tax revenue is offset by decreases in taxation rates from other taxing jurisdictions. With the average residential property assessment dropping by 9.8%, most homeowners will see a decrease in their total property tax bill payable this year.
Other News
BC Mining Week
Celebrate BC Mining Week May 14-20.
The District of Sparwood is proud to salute all the mines in the Elk Valley. We recognize the ongoing support that the mines provide to our community, not only by way of taxation and employment, but also by the support they give the community through donations, time and scholarships.
Residential Spring Cleanup
The District of Sparwood will begin the residential spring cleanup on Tuesday, May 23. All refuse including household furniture, white goods, metal and wood will be picked up including: fridges, freezers and air conditioners.  All refuse for disposal must be separated, bundled, piled and placed just outside property lines by 8:00 am on Tuesday, May 23.  Limit of one pickup truck per household. Any person wishing to take advantage of this service is required to register at the District Office no later than Friday, May 19, and pay the required fee of $20. Seniors 65 and over receive this service free of charge but must also register with the District Office by calling 250-425-6271.
All Terrain Vehicles and Motorbikes
The District of Sparwood would like to remind citizens that Off-Road Vehicle Bylaw 1182, 2016 prohibits the operation of motorbikes and ATVs on all public property, including parks, trails, walkways, highways, roads, and greenbelts.  Section 6.4 authorizes a Bylaw Enforcement Officer or Peace Officer to seize or impound motorbikes or ATVs that operate contrary to this Bylaw. In addition to impoundment fees of $50/day and towing costs, violators could be charged up to $500 in fines. If you witness a contravention, please notify the Bylaw Enforcement Officer at [email protected] or 250-425-5367. You will be asked to provide a description and any evidence (photo or video if possible or witness statement) you may have when you call.
Upcoming Meetings
Special Meeting (to consider adoption of Financial Plan and Tax Rates Bylaws, and Travel & Expense Reimbursement Policy) – Monday, May 8 at 9:30 a.m.
Public Relations Committee Meeting
Monday, May 8 at 11Â a.m.
Regular Meeting
Monday, May 15 at 7 p.m.
District of Sparwood
