The following is a synopsis of what occurred during the August 4 District of Sparwood council meeting.

INFORMAL PUBLIC HEARING

Development Variance Permit for 1501 – 1523 Elder Drive

An Informal Public Hearing was held to receive community feedback on a proposed Development Variance Permit for 1501-1523 Elder Drive in the Westwood Heights development. The application proposes reducing the minimum floor area to allow smaller one-and two-bedroom units in a limited number of fourplex buildings, along with a reduced minimum lot area for two townhouse lots.

Following the hearing, council approved the Development Variance Permit at the regular meeting, supporting additional housing options while maintaining the existing residential character of the neighbourhood.

BYLAWS

Traffic Regulation Bylaw No. 1346, 2026, for amendment

Council rescinded third reading of the proposed Traffic Regulations Bylaw and amended the bylaw by removing the proposed No Truck Route on Michel Creek Road. Third reading was then given as amended. The updated bylaw modernizes the district’s traffic regulations by replacing the existing 1987 bylaw, consolidating previous amendments, and improving clarity around traffic management, parking, permits, enforcement, and truck routes. The bylaw will return to a future council meeting for final adoption.

BUSINESS

Columbia River Basin Public Art Program Grant Application

Council approved submitting an application to the Columbia River Basin Public Art Grant for up to $75,000 to support the continuation of Sparwood’s Street Art Banner Program. If successful, the funding would support the creation of approximately 17 new banners featuring artwork by local artists to be displayed throughout the community. The Street Art Banner Program was first launched in 2020 to celebrate local creativity while enhancing public spaces with artwork inspired by the region’s heritage, environment, and community. The proposed grant would help expand the program, provide fair compensation to participating artists, and increase the number of banner locations across Sparwood. If the grant is successful, the district will invite artists to submit artwork and begin the next

phase of the program.

SHORE Grant Application- Elk River Riverside Access and Amenity Enhancement

Council approved submitting a SHORE (Shoreline Outdoor Revitalization and Enhancement) Grant application to the Columbia Basin Trust for up to $50,000 to support the planning and design of future improvements to public access and amenities along the Elk River near the bridge. The grant would cover up to 75% of eligible planning costs, with the total project budget estimated at $66,700.

The project aims to improve riverfront access, recreation opportunities, and public amenities while supporting future community growth. Planning work could include concept design, engineering reviews, environmental assessments, permitting requirements, and cost estimates to help prepare the project for future implementation and construction funding.

If successful, the grant will support the planning and design phase while helping prepare the project for future construction funding.

Recreation Facility Advisory Committee Recommendation

Council received the Recreation Facility Advisory Committee’s recommendation to maintain, renovate, and upgrade the current recreation facility with a focus on creating a community gathering space, while continuing to explore a future regional recreation facility with neighbouring communities.

The recommendation reflects the results of a two-year review that included community surveys, public engagement, stakeholder feedback, facility assessments, and financial analysis to identify the community’s long-term recreation priorities. Council also directed staff to bring the recommendation forward for further discussion on implementation options and potential inclusion in the 2027 budget. Having completed its work, the Recreation Facility Advisory Committee was dissolved.

UPCOMING MEETINGS

Tuesday, August 18 – Regular Meeting of Council

Tuesday, September 1 – Regular Meeting of Council

Wednesday, September 9 – Socio-Community and Economic Effects Advisory Committee

Tuesday, September 15 – rescheduled – Youth Advisory Commission at Sparwood Secondary School at 11:30 a.m.

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

e-KNOW file photos

District of Sparwood

Article Share