Short-term rental bylaw adopted following public hearing
Council adopted Bylaw 2205, amending the Official Community Plan to introduce new policies and guidelines for short-term rental accommodations. The bylaw allows council to consider Temporary Use Permits and rezoning applications for short-term rentals in zones where they are not currently permitted, subject to detailed criteria.
2024 financial statements and audit findings presented
Council received the Town’s 2024 financial statements and audit report from accounting firm Meyers Norris Penny (MNP). Auditor Cory Vanderhorst presented the findings, noting an annual surplus of $4,416,774 and highlighting a continued increase in the town’s financial position, including $54,167,730 in cash and investments and net financial assets of $17,147,811, up from $9,893,715 in 2023.
The town reported total revenues of $25,838,638, including $3,364,275 in grant funding. Expenses were under budget at $21,421,864. Vanderhorst explained that several large capital projects, such as dam upgrades, had been delayed, resulting in lower development cost charge usage and less grant revenue being recorded in the current year.
The audit received an unqualified opinion, indicating no issues with the statements. Council voted to accept the 2024 financial statements and audit findings.
Lease rates for Arts and Heritage Hub approved
Council approved lease rates for the Machine Shop, Loci Shop, and Car Shop buildings. The Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture will consult with current and former tenants to assess interest in formal lease agreements.
Folding machine approved for purchase
Council approved the purchase of a folder inserter machine for up to $20,000, to be funded through appropriated equity. Currently, utility bills and other bulk mailings are manually prepared and sent via courier to a third party in Victoria for folding and insertion. The new equipment will allow staff to handle this work in-house, reducing costs and turnaround time.
Emergency communications grant application
Council supported a grant application to the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) for funding to upgrade Ladysmith Fire/Rescue’s in-vehicle Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) units as part of the nationwide transition to Next Generation 911, a modern, IP-based system designed to improve emergency response by supporting real-time text, location data and eventually video. The current 911 system was built for landlines, but most calls now come from mobile devices, prompting a shift toward more advanced technology. The cost to upgrade the existing CAD units is estimated at $99,000. If successful, this grant will cover the hardware costs and installation.
2025 tax bylaws introduced
Council gave three readings to bylaws proposing 2025 property tax rates and utility parcel taxes, including Bylaw 2209 (Property Tax Rates), Bylaw 2210 (Sewer Parcel Tax), and Bylaw 2211 (Water Parcel Tax).
The municipal residential tax rate is proposed at $2.7667 per $1,000 of net taxable value. The proposed parcel tax amounts include a sewer parcel tax of $362 and a water parcel tax of $459 per residential property.
Dog control bylaw amendment adopted
Council adopted Bylaw 2207, amending the Dog Licencing, Control and Pound Bylaw to update language and enforcement provisions.
Resolution rescinded regarding staff consultation with community groups
Council rescinded a resolution from April 1 that required staff to consult with council before making decisions that might negatively impact community groups. Councillor Gourlay, who introduced the motion, said the original directive lacked clarity and risked hindering staff’s ability to carry out operational decisions efficiently.
Proclamation of Safety and Health Week
Mayor Deena Beeston proclaimed May 5-10 as Safety and Health Week in the Town of Ladysmith, joining a North America-wide effort to promote injury and illness prevention. This year's theme is "Together we can create safer workplaces and communities.”
Next Meeting
The next regular council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 6.
