The following is a synopsis of what occurred during the July 15 District of Sparwood council meeting.

BYLAW

Indemnification Bylaw

Council gave first three readings to the Indemnification Bylaw. It will be brought back to a future meeting for adoption.

The key objectives of the bylaw include:

• Legal Protection: Covers legal costs (e.g., defense fees, settlements, judgements) if a municipal official is sued or prosecuted while carrying out their duties.
• Encourages Public Service: Reduces personal risk for officials, making it more feasible for individuals to serve in public roles.
• Clarifies Boundaries: Specifies conditions under which indemnification applies—typically excluding cases of gross negligence, dishonesty, or misconduct.
• Outlines Procedures: Establishes how claims are submitted, reviewed and approved, including who appoints legal counsel and how cooperation is expected.

BUSINESS

Temporary Use Permit for 704 Michel Creek Road

An Informal Public Hearing was held to hear community feedback regarding a temporary use permit for 704 Michel Creek Road. Staff received a temporary use permit application for the modular offices at 704 Michel Creek Road (EVR buildings). The property is zoned M-1, Light Industrial and is designated in the Official Community Plan (OCP) as Light Industrial. The temporary use permit was later issued by council at the Regular Meeting until December 2026.

Temporary Use Permit for 441 Pine Avenue

The district has received a temporary use permit application from the Elk Valley Family Society to allow the site superintendent to camp on the property in a recreational vehicle/trailer for the duration of construction (estimated as finishing January 2027). An informal public hearing has been scheduled for August 5.

Recreation Fees and Charges Review – Study

The last milestone for the Recreation Fees and Charges Review was the final study being accepted by council at this evening. Staff were instructed to incorporate the framework outlined in the study into the update of the Recreation Fees and Charges Bylaw.

UPCOMING MEETINGS

Recreation Facility Advisory Committee – Thursday, July 17

Special Meeting of Council – Tuesday, July 22

Regular Meeting of Council – Tuesday, August 5

Regular Meeting of Council – Tuesday, August 19

All meetings are held at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers at the Municipal Office (136 Spruce Avenue), unless otherwise noted.

e-KNOW file photo

District of Sparwood

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