December Directors’ Report jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: December Directors’ Report Date: Mon, 14 Dec 2015 12:20:01 -0800 ******************* SEASONS GREETINGS ****************** JBNA is attempting to obtain a commitment from Biketoria (see November report) and BC transit (see below) to present at the January JBNA meeting _________________________________________________________________ JBNA Directors’ Report: December 9th, 2015 DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS Several development proposals are on the agenda for December’s JBNA meeting (see bottom). James Bay continues to become more densely-populated, leading to an increased need for services, amenities and collaboration among community groups and with the City. BRANCH LIBRARY AT CAPITAL PARK As reported recently in the “Victoria News” and the “James Bay Beacon”, the City has yet to make the funding commitments for a branch library which was set out in the Victoria Accord twenty years ago. A 7500 sq. ft. branch, as recommended by the Greater Victoria Public Library board, would allow for programming and services designed for young children, elementary, secondary and post-secondary students, families and seniors. JB residents may continue to share their views on this topic with City Council: councillors@victoria.ca ON JAMES BAY STREETS: GROUND TRANSPORTATION and MORE The work to improve the safety of the southeast corner of Oswego and Simcoe has been completed. JB residents, especially school children, now have a safer place to stand before crossing the street and those using walkers and mobility scooters have move room to maneuver and a more gradually sloping route to cross Oswego. It seems that a cross walk at Michigan and Douglas Streets is now on the City’s capital plan. This will create one more safe access to Beacon Hill Park; no date for work has been set. JB residents continue to raise questions about street safety and ground transportation issues related to large tourism-related buses, cycling routes, speed limits, access for mobility devices and general pedestrian safety. The effects of changes proposed by BC Transit and Wilsons Transportation Ltd for Douglas Street and Government Street on residents of James Bay must be examined. These issues will be at the top of JBNA’s agenda for 2016. The full list of JBNA annual priorities will be posted on the JBNA website early in 2016. GVHA GVHA has announced that an electric double-decker shuttle bus will be in use with Ogden Point cruise passengers in 2016, on a pilot basis. CVS, which provides Princess Lines shuttle services will use the bus for princess shuttle and CVS tours. JB FOOD GARDENING OUTREACH SERVICES Two articles in the December 2015/Janaury 2016 “James Bay Beacon” focus on JBNA’s gardening initiatives. See Marion Yas’ article, “James Bay Urban Gardener: Mushroom Magic” and Kathryn Pankowski’s “Peas on Earth.” It is never too late (or too early) in the year to think about how we can put “home grown” items on our plates. _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Agenda items at JBNA General Meeting, December 9: 665 Douglas Street, Yuk Yuk Comedy Club proposed for at the “Q”; 345 St. James, garden suite proposal; 90-92 Dallas, duplex proposal; revisited; 71-75 Montreal, multi-resident proposal (at Niagara). (Note: Contact City Planning @ 250-361-0523 for details) &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Wednesday, December 9, JBNA General Meeting changed agenda jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: Wednesday, December 9, JBNA General Meeting changed agenda Date: Tue, 8 Dec 2015 18:31:11 -0800 JBNA has just received notification that the 71-75 Montreal (at Niagara) development proposal is being pulled. Other items on the agenda will proceed as itemized on the agenda. Marg Gardiner ________________________________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION Monthly Meeting Agenda 7:00pm – 9:00pm Wednesday, December 9th, 2015 James Bay New Horizons – 234 Menzies St Agenda 1.-4 Welcome & Announcements, Approval of Agenda Correspondence/Announcements Minutes of October 14th meeting 5. 90-92 Dallas Development: Project Update Alan Lowe, architect 6. 345 St James St: Garden Suite development Nigel Banks, architect George & Marilyn Humphreys, owners 7. 71-75 Montreal St CANCELLED 8. 665 Douglas (the “Q”) Yuk Yuks Comedy Club primary liquor licence Bert Hick, Rising Tides Consultants Dave Wilcox & Yona Depue, Yuk Yuks owners 9. 2015 Cruise-Industry Emissions and Traffic: A review Bob VanderSteen & Brian Scarfe (time permitting) FM headphones may be available at the meeting for those with hearing loss. ________________________________________________________________________________ NOTES: 1 – If you have a suggestion for an agenda item, please submit to JBNA@vcn.bc.ca 2 – JBNA, as a Society, is independent of James Bay New Horizons Society. James Bay New Horizons Society is responsible for operations, including rentals, of 234 Menzies. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& JBNA December 9 General Meeting and October 14 minutes jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: JBNA December 9 General Meeting and October 14 minutes Date: Tue, 1 Dec 2015 15:54:22 -0800 NOTE: Niagara/Montreal CALUC Meeting is Wednesday, December 9. (notice forwarded by City was faint and many have reported date was not legible) ________________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION Monthly Meeting Agenda 7:00pm – 9:00pm Wednesday, December 9th, 2015 James Bay New Horizons – 234 Menzies St ________________________________________________________________ Agenda 1-4. Welcome & Announcements; Agenda; Correspondence/Announcements; Minutes of October 14th meeting 5. 90-92 Dallas Development: Project Update Alan Lowe, architect 6. 345 St James St: Garden Suite development Nigel Banks, architect George & Marilyn Humphreys, owners 7. 71-75 Montreal St Michael Dillistone, planning consultant, Leonard Cole, property owner, Peter de Hoog, project architect 8. 665 Douglas (the “Q”) Yuk Yuks Comedy Club primary liquor licence Bert Hick, Rising Tides Consultants Dave Wilcox & Yona Depue, Yuk Yuks owners 9. 2015 Cruise-Industry Emissions and Traffic: A review Bob VanderSteen & Brian Scarfe (time permitting) ________________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION MINUTES – General Meeting Oct 14, 2015 1. Welcome: 7:05 pm (52 in attendance) Marg Gardner: Chair, Laura Neil recorded minutes City of Victoria, Liaison, Margaret Lucas 2. Approval of Agenda as amended: m/s/c 90-92 Dallas Rd Development – Project will be postponed: Alan Lowe, Architect 3. Correspondence – accepted as circulated m/s/c 4. Minutes of Sept 9th meeting m/s/c as amended (one opposed) Chris Doyle wants article on sewage included in the minutes of September 9th 2015. (Note: Grover paper re sewage included in August correspondence file) Community Concerns – Tree cut down on Montreal Street – Chris Doyle objected to treatment of another residents letter/e-mail as he could not find in correspondence file. (Note: some resident letters included in September correspondence) file. 5. Belleville Terminal and COHO Ferry – Update Ryan Burles, CEO Black Ball Ferry Line, and Svein Haugen, Director, BC Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure (also present David Gudgel, COO, Clipper, and JC Scott, Architect/Designer) Phase 1 Immediate work this winter with conclusion in winter of 2016. Replace Wharf raised by 25 cm at the east end and 65+ cm at west. New car/truck ramp with a wider turning radius and new hydraulic lift. New wharf berthing dolphins. New covered passenger walkway. Re-surface parking lot and add a garden area. Re-configure the customs booths for better traffic flow. While out of service, replace propeller (stern) tubers aboard the MC Coho. Shoreside work Nov to April 2016 and out of Service Jan to end of February 2016. This will take 2 years to complete Oct to May each year. Clipper wharf will also undergo repairs at this time. Phase 2 David Foster walk remediation – upgrading/beautification – however no funding from BC govt. Phase 3 Complete replacement of current wharf and building Q – will it take 15 years to see Clipper building replaced A – it is hoped all remediation will be completed in 15 years however needs partnership with govt and shared funding in place to see Phase 2 and 3 done. Q – Who’s going to pay for it A – company and govt have agreed to funding in place for Phase 1 – retrieval of company investment will be realized from rental of wharf Q – where will new proposed ferry Van to Vic be placed A – that is being negotiated with GVHA – will likely use the under sea gardens pier Q – what will have 60 yr life span A – the wharf/dock Q – are first nations involved A – have been working with first nation for last 2 years although there is no legal requirement for Black Ball; there is however for the Clipper and continue to negotiate with the first nations. Q – will there be a new shared building for Clipper and Black Ball? A – will work with City on David Foster Way – no intent to wait – will be done over time and will take money – promise Phase 1 is going ahead, can’t state when Phase 2 and 3 will be done. Q – Phase 2 timetable? A – 1 million from city is for 2016 for David Foster walkway Q – any arrangement for a passenger link to Port Angeles while Coho out of service. A – no, cost and logistics of training staff to challenging 6. Ogden Point Master-Plan 2015 – 2016 – Vision – Possibilities Mark Crisp, Stantec (Consultant to GVHA) Project Manager for Master Plan Project Team: Architect, Engineering, Landscaping, Planning, Marine/ports/emissions/noise Schedule Phase 3: Functional facilities plan Jan to Nov 2015. Phase 4: Master planning Phase 4 late Nov 2015 to Dec 2016. Engagement – Communication for Rezoning Process – Transparent process, range of tactics for engaging community and stakeholders, mind-mixer site, questionnaire is on GVHA website for mind mixer link – provides a feedback loop for peoples comments, ideas, and concerns, whether their ideas can or can’t be incorporated into masterplan. Q – Very positive about Stantec planning – however where is City at and GVHA as OP a site for sewage plant. Wants GVHA not to support sewage at Ogden. A – if asked to look how to fit on site, has built 3 sewage treatment plants, enough expertise to evaluate the masterplan and impact on site and impact on community. Do not yet know what might be proposed. Will have different impacts depending on infrastructure required. C – believes this proposal is no different from the proposed master plan present 3 years earlier by former GVHA CEO Curtis Grad. Concerned that presentation will be the end result. C – likes diagram presented. However believes GVHA only pays attention to yellow bubble (Ogden) but not what happens within red bubble (impact on James Bay). Transportation needs to respect WHO community noise guidelines. How will plan guide noise abatement? What will be ongoing dialogue of GVHA in regard to changes overtime i.e. GVHA and JBNA/community? Not unlike the MOU that was drafted for changes to Fisherman’s Wharf. A – suggests regulatory approach (City) for traffic impacts. Will put in a feedback process/communications process and recommend/design a conversation process to be triggered when certain levels of development changes will be taking place at OP. Get to certain point will have a time frame a monitoring process must be in place to determine input/outcome. Have complaints increased or decreased over time. Stakeholders must be engaged – will make recommendation and map out for GVHA. Suggest regulatory approach rather than GVHA deal with issue C – Contract power is more powerful than regulatory. C – The metric of how many complaints are received is not a good measure if isn’t addressed as people stop complaining when over time nothing is done. C – wants to see some creativity in the use of the space for people C – the sewage input could defeat some of the positive ideas of this plan. 7. Community Concerns: Stop lights taken out at Superior and Government – only stop signs in place – changes due to Capital Park – there are other changes re lights elsewhere on Superior – doesn’t know the timeline, encourage comments/feedback on left hand turn at Douglas and Superior once new lights installed. 8. Adjournment: 9 pm &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& JBNA November Directors Report jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: JBNA November Directors Report Date: Mon, 9 Nov 2015 10:36:52 -0800 JBNA Directors’ Report: November 9, 2015 NOTE: No Nov. JBNA general meeting as the second Wednesday falls on Remembrance Day. Next general meeting: Wed., Dec. 9, 2015. WASTEWATER TREATMENT SITES As media reported last week, the CRD is currently considering four wastewater treatment site options, including one centralized option and three decentralized options. None include Ogden Point or any other site in James Bay. JBNA and James Bay residents have been (and will continue to be) actively engaged in the public process by hosting and attending meetings, completing surveys and writing individual letters. ON JAMES BAY STREETS The City of Victoria has painted and signed a new crosswalk at the corner of Menzies and Michigan Streets. JBNA has been advocating for a safer crossing at this as well as other JB intersections. A crosswalk to Fisherman’s Wharf Park is included in the 2015/16 City budget. The City has also completed the installation of the new traffic signals at the intersection of Government and Superior Streets. Work on the sidewalks at the corners of this intersection continues. BIKETORIA The City of Victoria dedicated bike lane project, BIKETORIA, is proceeding. JBNA requested consultation as James Bay streets now included (spoke to consultant, Urban Systems, and CoV Engagement staff). GVHA GVHA will host an open “Community Conversation” to discuss the Ogden Point Master Plan on Thurs., Nov. 19, 2015, Pier B – 185 Dallas Road, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm. Members of the public may also provide input online. Visit the GVHA website: http://www.gvha.ca/ogden-point-terminal/ogden-point-master-plan People may also comment on the GVHA’s draft Three Year Public Business Plan 2016/17 – 2018/19. http://www.gvha.ca/sites/default/files/pdfs/publications/draft%20Business%20Plan%202016-2019%20-%20Oct%2026.pdf (The easiest way to find the draft plan is to go to the GVHA website: www.gvha.ca then use the drop-down menu under About GVHA, go to Publications, then click on Publications in the left-hand column and go to Plans & Studies.) During 2015, Ogden Point saw 227 cruise ship calls and more than 533,000 passengers. To put the impact on JB in perspective, the number of cruise ships arriving in Victoria has more than doubled and the number of passengers more than tripled since 2002. JB FOOD GARDENING OUTREACH SERVICES The first meeting of the JB Gardening Committee was held on Oct. 28. JB’s two allotment gardens and other groups and volunteers associated with food gardening and food security attended. Kathryn Pankowski, JBNA’s contracted Food Gardening Advocate, will be creating an inventory of food gardening activity taking place in James Bay. Kathryn will reach out to JB residents in a number of ways to help develop the inventory. Related event: the City of Victoria will offer a FREE tree-banding workshop on Tues., Nov. 10, 1 2 pm, Beacon Hill Park Maintenance Yard, located at the end of Nursery Road. Registration is not required. Dress for the weather as the workshop will take place outdoors, rain or shine. Banding helps reduce infestations of green caterpillars and the need for pesticides in the spring. When trees aren’t banded, green caterpillars that emerge from the winter moth larvae eat the blossoms and leaves in the spring. Garry oak, maples, cherries, basswood, ash, crabapples, apple, blueberry, poplar and other ornamental trees and shrubs can all benefit from banding. EMILY CARR HOUSE OPEN HOUSE EVENT: 207 Government Street: 11am – 4pm November 13-15 There will be complimentary admission to Emily Carr House during the Arnold Burrell “Servant to his Art” retrospective exhibit. DECEMBER 5 EVENTS: We Can Expect Many Visitors in James Bay * 35th Annual Dickens Fair, 10 am – 5 pm at the James Bay Community School Centre, 140 Oswego Street. Admission $2, childern free. Children’s activities; local arts/crafts; Café by Heron Rock Bistro; Door Prizes. * Ogden Point Santa and Light Up, 3 pm. * Truck Light Convoy and Food Drive, City police will block traffic both ways on Dallas Road at 5:45 pm. Details: www.ieoa.ca * Lighted Ship Parade begins from Ship Point at 7:00 pm. Boats circle the Inner Harbour and sail up by Fisherman’s Wharf. Consult the James Bay Beacon for holiday events offered by the James Bay Community Project, James Bay New Horizons, the James Bay Community School Centre and other organizations in JB. _________________________________________________ Possible agenda items at JBNA General Meeting, December 9: 665 Douglas Street, Yuk Yuk Comedy Club proposed for at the “Q”; 345 St. James, garden suite proposal; 90-92 Dallas, duplex proposa; revisited; 71-75 Montreal, multi-resident proposal (at Niagara). &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Announcements and October meeting minutes jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: Announcements and October meeting minutes Date: Mon, 26 Oct 2015 16:17:20 -0700 There will NOT be a General Meeting on November 11. Consider attending the Remembrance Day service at the War Memorial, Legislature Building, on Wednesday, November 11. ________________________________________ Notices: 1) 2016 cruise-ship/passenger expectations A summary of the scheduled stops and passenger loads for 2016 has been completed Posted on jbna.org at https://jbna.org/2016%20Ship%20details.pdf 2) Hallmark Society: Insurance for Heritage Home Owners Information session: 7pm, Wednesday, October 28, Old Craigflower Schoolhouse, 2755 Admirals Rd 3) City program: Great Neighbourhoods with Jim Diers Friday, October 30, 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Crystal Gardens (713 Douglas St) 4) BIKETORIA Summit; learn about the City’s plans for new bike lanes: Victoria Conference Centre (720 Douglas St) November 1, 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Library Engagement Lab: November 2, Central Library, noon to 3 p.m. On-Street Engagement Lab: November 2, Wharf and Humboldt streets, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. ________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION MINUTES – General Meeting Oct 14, 2015 1. Welcome: 7:05 pm (52 in attendance) Marg Gardner: Chair, Laura Neil recorded minutes City of Victoria, Liaison, Margaret Lucas 2. Approval of Agenda as amended: m/s/c 90-92 Dallas Rd Development – Project will be postponed: Alan Lowe, Architect 3. Correspondence – accepted as circulated m/s/c 4. Minutes of Sept 9th meeting m/s/c as amended (one opposed) Chris Doyle wants article on sewage included in the minutes of September 9th 2015. (Note: Grover paper re sewage included in August correspondence file) Community Concerns – Tree cut down on Montreal Street – Chris Doyle objected to treatment of another residents letter/e-mail as he could not find in correspondence file. (Note: some resident letters included in September correspondence) file. 5. Belleville Terminal and COHO Ferry – Update Ryan Burles, CEO Black Ball Ferry Line, and Svein Haugen, Director, BC Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure (also present David Gudgel, COO, Clipper, and JC Scott, Architect/Designer) Phase 1 Immediate work this winter with conclusion in winter of 2016 Replace Wharf raised by 25 cm at the east end and 65+ cm at west. New car/truck ramp with a wider turning radius and new hydraulic lift. New wharf berthing dolphins. New covered passenger walkway. Re-surface parking lot and add a garden area. Re-configure the customs booths for better traffic flow. While out of service, replace propeller (stern) tubers aboard the MC Coho. Shoreside work Nov to April 2016 and out of Service Jan to April 2016. This will take 2 years to complete Oct to May each year. Clipper wharf will also undergo repairs at this time. Phase 2 David Foster walk remediation – upgrading/beautification – however no funding from BC govt. Phase 3 Complete replacement of current wharf and building Q – will it take 15 years to see Clipper building replaced A – it is hoped all remediation will be completed in 15 years however needs partnership with govt and shared funding in place to see Phase 2 and 3 done. Q – Who’s going to pay for it A – company and govt have agreed to funding in place for Phase 1 – retrieval of company investment will be realized from rental of wharf Q – where will new proposed ferry Van to Vic be placed A – that is being negotiated with GVHA – will likely use the under sea gardens pier Q – what will have 60 yr life span A – the wharf/dock Q – are first nations involved A – have been working with first nation for last 2 years although there is no legal requirement for Black Ball; there is however for the Clipper and continue to negotiate with the first nations. Q – will there be a new shared building for Clipper and Black Ball? A – will work with City on David Foster Way – no intent to wait – will be done over time and will take money – promise Phase 1 is going ahead, can’t state when Phase 2 and 3 will be done. Q – Phase 2 timetable? A – 1 million from city is for 2016 for David Foster walkway Q – any arrangement for a passenger link to Port Angeles while Coho out of service. A – no, cost and logistics of training staff to challenging 6. Ogden Point Master-Plan 2015 – 2016 – Vision – Possibilities Mark Crisp, Stantec (Consultant to GVHA) Project Manager for Master Plan Project Team: Architect, Engineering, Landscaping, Planning, Marine/ports/emissions/noise Schedule Phase 3: Functional facilities plan Jan to Nov 2015. Phase 4: Master planning Phase 4 late Nov 2015 to Dec 2016. Engagement – Communication for Rezoning Process – Transparent process, range of tactics for engaging community and stakeholders, mind-mixer site, questionnaire is on GVHA website for mind mixer link – provides a feedback loop for peoples comments, ideas, and concerns, whether their ideas can or can’t be incorporated into masterplan. Q – Very positive about Stantec planning – however where is City at and GVHA as OP a site for sewage plant. Wants GVHA not to support sewage at Ogden. A – if asked to look how to fit on site, has built 3 sewage treatment plants, enough expertise to evaluate the masterplan and impact on site and impact on community. Do not yet know what might be proposed. Will have different impacts depending on infrastructure required. C – believes this proposal is no different from the proposed master plan present 3 years earlier by former GVHA CEO Curtis Grad. Concerned that presentation will be the end result. C – likes diagram presented. However believes GVHA only pays attention to yellow bubble (Ogden) but not what happens within red bubble (impact on James Bay). Transportation needs to respect WHO community noise guidelines. How will plan guide noise abatement? What will be ongoing dialogue of GVHA in regard to changes overtime i.e. GVHA and JBNA/community? Not unlike the MOU that was drafted for changes to Fisherman’s Wharf. A – suggests regulatory approach (City) for traffic impacts. Will put in a feedback process/communications process and recommend/design a conversation process to be triggered when certain levels of development changes will be taking place at OP. Get to certain point will have a time frame a monitoring process must be in place to determine input/outcome. Have complaints increased or decreased over time. Stakeholders must be engaged – will make recommendation and map out for GVHA. Suggest regulatory approach rather than GVHA deal with issue C – Contract power is more powerful than regulatory. C – The metric of how many complaints are received is not a good measure if isn’t addressed as people stop complaining when over time nothing is done. C – wants to see some creativity in the use of the space for people C – the sewage input could defeat some of the positive ideas of this plan. 7. Community Concerns: Stop lights taken out at Superior and Government – only stop signs in place – changes due to Capital Park – there are other changes re lights elsewhere on Superior – doesn’t know the timeline, encourage comments/feedback on left hand turn at Douglas and Superior once new lights installed. 8. Adjournment: 9 pm &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& October Directors’ Report jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: October Directors’ Report Date: Thu, 15 Oct 2015 11:49:22 -0700 Note to the several James Bay residents who attended the GVHA AGM meeting on Tuesday evening: Thank you for attending. I am sure many of you were disappointed that the Mayor cut off questions regarding the sewage project. She does have “Open House” events on Fridays, and you can also speak to her there. However, the flow and focus is not the same as there could be several items (10-20 discussion topics). If you do wish to visit at an Open House, please check the City web-site for times/dates as they are sometimes altered as late as the day before. JBNA Directors’ Report: October 14th, 2015 JB Food Gardening Outreach Services JBNA has contracted with Kathryn Pankowski to provide gardening outreach services for James Bay. Kathryn will encourage food gardening in our community. In the next several months, she will update us on events which may be of interest to gardeners and coordinate information gathering for creating an inventory of food gardening activities in James Bay. Kathryn has worked for volunteer agencies. Many residents may know her through her role as a member of the core planning group for Victoria’s Seedy Saturday. GVHA AGM: October 13 Discussions Wastewater Ogden Point remains as a possible site for part of a distributed wastewater treatment facility. CRD reports are due on September 21 (Eastside distributed Options treatment sites), November 4 (Westside and Eastside combined sites), and December 2 (final report). Consultation will follow shortly thereafter with final site selection early in 2016. Mayor Helps stated “someone for CRD is actively engaged in [Ogden Point] MasterPlan”. Ogden Point as a Home Port On several occasions, reference has been made to Ogden Point becoming a home port for smaller cruise-ships. Such a development would bring both challenges and opportunities for Victoria. Suppliers (if produce/supplies are island sourced), local hoteliers, restaurants, and retail businesses would benefit. But significant impacts to the neighbourhood with increased delivery/reefer truck activity could also be expected. A thorough study, highlighting the impacts on James Bay, should be undertaken before any moves are made in this direction. Ground Transportation Plan is a work in progress – 3-5 yrs – triple bottom line perspective. 2016 season: The cruise-industry continues to grow. 2016 will see the largest cruise-ship ever in port at Ogden, a Royal Caribbean ship. Proposals: (Note: Contact City Planning @ 250-361-0523 for details) 2015-2016: Ogden Point MasterPlan In City process: 121 Menzies, Capital Park Heritage House relocations, 701 Belleville Expected at JBNA in December: 90-92 Dallas re-visited, Montreal/Niagara proposal &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& October 14 – Amended Agenda jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: October 14 – Amended Agenda Date: Tue, 13 Oct 2015 12:32:55 -0700 Please note that item 6 on the previously distributed agenda, namely 90-92 Dallas Update, is being postponed until November or December. Alan Lowe has not had the opportunity to inform direct neighbours, hence is postponing the update ________________________________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION Monthly Meeting Agenda AMENDED 7:00pm – 9:00pm Wednesday, October 14th, 2015 234 Menzies (New Horizons Bldg) Agenda 1. Welcome & Announcements 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Correspondence/Announcements · Circulating Correspondence file 4. Minutes of September 9th meeting 5. Belleville Terminal and the COHO Ferry: Update Ryan Burles, CEO, Black Ball Ferry Line 6. 90-92 Dallas Development: Project Update DELETE – POSTPONED Alan Lowe, Architect 7. Ogden Point Master-Plan: Vision – Possibilities Mark Crisp, Stantec (Consultant to GVHA) 8. Community Concerns (time permitting) &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Coho Ferry, 90/92 Dallas, Ogden Point MasterPLan – October 14 JBNA meeting jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: Coho Ferry, 90/92 Dallas, Ogden Point MasterPLan – October 14 JBNA meeting Date: Sun, 27 Sep 2015 13:19:09 -0700 ________________________________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION Monthly Meeting Agenda 7:00pm – 9:00pm Wednesday, October 14th, 2015 234 Menzies (New Horizons Bldg) Agenda 1. Welcome & Announcements 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Correspondence/Announcements · Circulating Correspondence file 4. Minutes of September 9th meeting 5. Belleville Terminal and the COHO Ferry: Update Ryan Burles, CEO, Black Ball Ferry Line 6. 90-92 Dallas Development: Project Update Alan Lowe, Architect 7. Ogden Point Master-Plan: Vision – Possibilities Mark Crisp, Stantec (Consultant to GVHA) 8. Community Concerns (time permitting) JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION MINUTES General Meeting Sept 9th, 2015 1. Welcome: 7:05 pm (58 in attendance) Marg Gardiner: Chair, Laura Neil recorded minutes City of Victoria, Liaison, Margaret Lucas 2. Agenda: m/s/c 3. Correspondence – accepted as circulated m/s/c Announcements Next Tuesday Sept 15th at 7pm all candidates forum at Laurel Point. GVHA – Ogden Point Master Plan process JBNA will have presenter at October 2015 JBNA GM, and Clipper Navigation will be attending with update to Coho Ferry dock 4. Minutes of August 12th meeting m/s/c 5. Potential Library Branch in James Bay: GVPL Update Kevin Murdoch, Board Chair, GVPL Jennifer Windecker, Director, Public Services GVPL Eileen Gillette, Core District Coordinator, GVPL The GVPL collected information about community interest in acquiring a branch Library via on-line survey. Looking for flexible function, not all bricks, mortar and books, new approach flexible open space. Recommendations will be brought forward to City of Victoria fall of 2015. As of tonight’s meeting over 1000 residents have so far responded to the survey. A broader on-line survey will be conducted for the greater Victoria Library system and encourages residents to participate in that which will follow the James Bay library survey. Q – Can you isolate in the number of respondents to current survey those who are JB residents? If folks transfer from using main library to JB branch how will main branch be affected A – no plans to move central library. Not all people who have libraries in their current location necessarily use the local location. Research has shown the uptake of new location doesn’t affect the central libraries as more nearby people begin to use the service that was not conveniently located for them before. Q – Central Library will remain where is? A – Yes there is no intention to move from current location – it will be the City of Vic to determine where/when libraries are located/moved. C – Central Library has a lot of parking that is free – makes very easy to access, if central library to be moved this needs to be considered. C – Believes determination to place a Library in JB has already been determined although current survey is taking place – doesn’t think open space is necessary, wants an old fashion library. C – regardless if what survey says JB has a similar number of residents as Esquimalt and should have similar size library. What would cost of renting meeting space be? A – Currently charge for community meeting room at Central Library, looking a rental costs for meeting rooms elsewhere – currently working on those costs. C – comparing JB to Central branch, has homeless problem there, concerned about public computer don’t have capacity to accept govt documents. Temporary usage draws on system. Has issue some patrons are downloading movies. A – MG believes there will less concern of the gathering of homeless outside the structure ad usable the Capital Park location will be private property not public property as is Central Library. As to the use of the library facilities inside the building, the library rules would be the same for all users. C – Thanks for coming believes this is a good proposal. Compared to Esq – JB not accurate count of temporary residents (snow birds), travellers, govt workers add those in the population will be as large a Esq an as deserving to the size of the Esq Library. The cost of the library should be off-set by the taxes to be paid by Capital Park. C – small meeting room space will be a real plus and necessary in the new library location – this would be part of the flexible space – strongly encourage to recommend maximimum size for Library now, not later. Q – Tight timeline to building Capital Park will need an answer re the library based on weight bearing of books. A – This survey has been bumped forward and why it is going to City in fall of 2015. Understands that Capital Park will be advised by March 2015 as to size. C – approx. 11,500 residents in JB and 1000 responses to date is to be celebrated. We do have the density here to defend a decent sized library with meeting space. Will be a well utilized library. Q – size chosen by library is what the developer will build? A – It is the City which must decide what the size of the footage will be of the library. C – Strong support for library, max out space now, too many stories of facilities being maxed out as soon as structure is built. C – JB Project library is free and is well used and hopes won’t be lost with construction of new library, then must consider the people currently using community project library that will have flexible space usage. 6. Eastside Wastewater & Resource Recovery Project (sewage) Amanda Gibbs, Eastside Consultant Note: Ogdenremains a potential location as part of a distributed system Amanda spoke of the process to date, and the meeting held in the morning by the Core waste management meeting – Eastside consultation ended at the end of July 2015. Have collated input and have made recommendations; Need an economic study – not a good enough costing for public to make informed opinion a. Central Eastside system at Rock Bay b. Region wide sewage treatment centered at Rock Bay c. Lot of interest in smaller modular treatment plants Ogden Point worthy of more study in recommendation, still being considered in several proposed configurations. Discussion of other sites continues, with even new ones being explored. Ogden Point could be considered with smaller modular treatment sites. There are issues of accountability, fairness, and best practice. Need to ensure highest standards are met. All info being studied by engineers, economists, etc Next steps; late fall release of the technical findings, At that point the proposals will be taken back to public for open consultation, to happen late this year early 2016. Timelines are getting tight. Recognize not everyone is happy with the process. Will be introducing a Fairness Ombudsman soon to the process. C – Pleased to see the current consultation process will now have an appeal process via an ombudsman. Q – What is the process for a fairness revue of R1 vs/vs R2 zoning for placement of treatment sites – what is the fairness test? A – contact Amanda directly to connect with person in charge of this area of decision C – if fair to exclude R1, James Bay should be excluded as it had, by default, R2 zoning C – secondary and tertiary treatment now is the opportunity to do this right and visit the Port Alberni treatment site. C – Ogden Point (OP) vs McLoughlin Point, same issues which led to rejection of McLoughlin apply to Ogden Point site C – OP has too much traffic impact already – enough is enough. C – believes sewage survey was a sham C – realise that recommendations for the July consultation process were rejected by the Eastside committee – this was a betrayal of the committee’s commitment to honour process C/Q – regarding the Seattle Mayor letter to Victoria regarding sewage – statements made about raw sewage being dumped into Strait were wrong – response needed A – the Core Area Management Committee Chair did write to the Seattle Times Q – is someone with climate expertise working on the sewage treatment project? The winds will impact JB if treatment plant is placed at OP, the winds will mean impact on James Bay A – wind studies and climate are part of the technical analysis of the project C – JBNA had already supplied April-September wind maps – did anything submitted get used? Even read? C – Coast Guard and OP are built on fill – distributed only makes sense for tertiary recovery – but no opportunity at OP for waste water recovery for area golf courses – or for heat recovery for large public sites (hospitals/colleges etc) A – heat recovery is being utilized in Vancouver to provide heating for residential homes as well as public facilities (new development of Olympic Village) C – one of the considerations that must be considered is the constricted access to JB (two accesses). Not fair and not logical to place any level of treatment facility in James Bay. C – I work in tourism and transportation – visitors are shocked that OP is being considered as a location. Can smell fuel from helicopters from OP, can’t image the smell if sited at OP A – states a lot of the study that will attempt to limit mitigate odors of treatment site. Q – Does the Olympic Village and Nanaimo treatment sites have odors? States there was an issues at Dockside, however seems to have been alleviated. C – put treatment sites near existing sewage pipes – madness not to – a treatment plant in each municipality C – at the May 30/31 events, residents from Saanich stated upstream load should be dealt with upstream – especially as population densifies C – there was a composting facility situated in Saanich that wasn’t to smell – it wasn’t contained and now compost is being shipped to another location. Can’t guarantee there won’t be odor mitigated or not and JB OP is not suitable. C – thanks Amanda to for coming – a difficult presentation. Consultation process flawed – some municipalities came to the table with nothing for usable sites – believes Victoria has been snookered – biggest winner Barb Desjardins, Esquimalt. C – Extended appreciation for all efforts on behalf of consultant team for trying to get a balanced consultation process. 7. Community Concerns: 8. Adjournment 9pm &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Reminder: JBNA Federal Election All-candidates Forum jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: Reminder: JBNA Federal Election All-candidates Forum Date: Mon, 14 Sep 2015 19:40:18 -0700 JBNA All-Candidates Forum: Tuesday, September 15 ____________________________________________________________ Meet’n’greet – 6:15 pm Forum – 7:00-9:30 pm Tuesday, September 15 Laurel Point Inn 680 Montreal St. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Marijuana ? Tents/Sheltering ? Ogden Point ¬? Federal Election jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: Marijuana ? Tents/Sheltering ? Ogden Point ¬? Federal Election Date: Thu, 10 Sep 2015 09:44:37 -0700 SURVEYS – FORUMS: There are surveys underway which relate to quality of life of James Bay residents. FEDERAL ELECTION: JBNA All-Candidates Forum: Meet the candidates for Victoria-Beacon Hill at the JBNA All-Candidates Forum: Laurel Point Inn, 7 pm, Tuesday September 15th. OGDEN POINT – 3 comment opportunities for input to current thoughts about the Ogden Point MasterPLan 1) A Stantec team, consultants to GVHA, undertaking the MasterPlan development for Ogden Point, will be presenting at the October 14 JBNA General Meeting, location to be determined. 2) A simple survey is at: http://fluidsurveys.com/s/ogdenpointmasterplan/ 3) An on-line conversation where anyone can converse and respond is at: http://ogdenpointmasterplan.mindmixer.com/ Regulations for MEDICAL MARIJUANA – Related Businesses The City seeks resident input to assess the level of resident concern regarding marijuana-related businesses in Victoria. Survey: http://fluidsurveys.com/s/medicalmarijuana/ Background Information: http://haveyoursayvictoria.com/projects/regulations-for-medical-marijuana-related-businesses CAMPING/TENTING: “Sheltering Solutions”: City Council has decided to facilitate alternative temporary housing options, in addition to, or instead of, the shelter beds provided in the past. Resident comment is being sought. Two alternatives identified are designated sheltering (tenting) areas in City parks, and a micro-housing village with huts and semi-permanent wooden structures on private or public land. Micro-housing is not envisioned for Victoria parks. Wednesday, September 16, 2015 6:30 p.m – 8:30 p.m., Crystal Garden, 713 Douglas Street the Vancouver CommunityNet &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Reminder: Library and Sewage discussions jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: Reminder: Library and Sewage discussions Date: Tue, 8 Sep 2015 21:33:15 -0700 Reminder Wednesday JBNA meeting: JBNA Meeting agenda: JB Library proposal + CRD Sewage. Time: 7-9 pm Location: 234 Menzies (New Horizons building) Date: September 9 &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& September Agenda & August Minutes jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: September Agenda & August Minutes Date: Mon, 31 Aug 2015 01:11:07 -0700 JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION Monthly Meeting Agenda 7:00pm – 9:00pm Wednesday, September 9th, 2015 James Bay New Horizons – 234 Menzies St Agenda 1. Welcome & Announcements 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Correspondence/Announcements · Circulating Correspondence file 4. Minutes of August 12th meeting 5. Potential Library Branch in James Bay: GVPL Update Kevin Murdoch, Board Chair, GVPL Jennifer Windecker, Director, Public Services, GVPL Eileen Gillette, Core District Coordinator, GVPL 6. Eastside Wastewater & Resource Recovery Project (sewage) Amanda Gibbs, Eastside Consultant Other presenter – TBD Note: Ogden/Coast Guard remains a potential location as part of a distributed system 7. Community Concerns (time permitting) FM headphones may be available at the meeting for those with hearing loss. ____________________________________________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION MINUTES General Meeting Aug 12th, 2015 1. Welcome: 7:05 pm (40 in attendance) Marg Gardiner: Chair, Laura Neil recorded minutes City of Victoria, Liaison, Margaret Lucas 2. Agenda: m/s/c 3. Minutes of July 8th, 2015 a) Question: are minutes they forwarded to city hall? Response: Yes there are both staff and Councillors on the e-distribution lists. b) Terry was asked by another resident – who lived on Dock Street to ask for amendment to the minutes as the Dock Street resident had critized both the City and the JBNA regarding the siting of the Michigan Street garden at the McDonald Park/Niagara St site. Minutes M/S/C as amended 4. Correspondence & Announcements Correspondence – accepted as circulated m/s/c Announcement: JBNA no longer has access to hold meetings at New Horizons, Mayor Helps is assisting in locating a new meeting location. 5. Member needs phone or mail/delivery contact for Executive in order to get items on the agenda since he did not want to use e-mail. He was advised to direct Canada Post mail to JBNA c/o Mayor Helps at city Hall. 6. Tour de Victoria: Update by Seamus McGrath 7. City of Victoria: Great Neighbourhoods Initiative CoV Staff attending: Katie Hamilton, Director Citizen Engagement & Strategic Planning Jonathan Tinney, Director of Sustainable Planning & Community Development Kristina Bouris, Senior Planner, Community Planning Julie Potter, Manager, Citizen Engagement Following an overview of the Great Neighbourhood Initiative by Katie Hamilton, those present had a round-table discussion with residents raising concerns and comments regarding city engagement and response to community matters: 1. Great Neighbourhoods Initiative Overview; looking at systems and City approach how to do differently in future and better. How city communicate to the community can do better. Awareness of the complexities of various neighbourhoods, greater input to council, complexities in built up neighbourhoods. Need to do better in communication, plain language. Better understanding of city structure. How the city is more responsive to citizens input. Looking at best practice in other communities, etc. Early thoughts; have better systems to assist councillor liaisons. Will be meeting with all community associations in city. Will go to council in October some recommendations of how to better work with neighbourhood associations. 2. Terry – James Bay Beacon use to reach allot more people in the community get information out, do see using this. 3. Linda – lives in JB, pedestrian community, challenge we are still accommodating cars in this community have more focus on green spaces and pedestrian walking 4. Victoria – has been on prior advisory communities, like to see some assessment of 14,000 people in 1 square kilometer, provincial precinct, cruise ship impact don’t see reflected in community plan, need to look for shortcomings and positive impacts. This organizations focus on land use and environment, look at culture, social impact, and economic impact of the community. No co-ordination of social services. Encourage come up with benchmark for our community. Grants for city to have community organizations to work together, should be submitting joint proposals. With help from city to bring those groups together. 5. Marg – JBNA Board is assembling some data re population, employment etc. 6. Chris – City and CRD position of sewage treatment not appropriate in JB. Closure of McDonald Park, zero notice, notice taped to JB Community School with no contact source. Parking lot closed. Sidewalk is also blocked to children’s play area. 7. Marg responded – notice only went to direct neighbours which was unusual because Parks department usually informs JBNA 8. Kath – access to parks, such as Beacon Hill, is difficult. Avalon access very difficult to cross with Bus Stop. Especially with dog walkers, as north is closed due to Herons. 9. Marg – only real pedestrian entrance to BHP is Simcoe St JBNA wants to lead a review of Douglas street with an objective of integrating the Park more into James Bay, as done for Fairfield 10. Oswego resident – back 2 years after being away for some years. Taxi’s on Oswego during cruise ships real challenge, speed, and numbers. Challenge some councillor city staff to stand on Oswego during 2/3 ship night. 11. Carol – lived here for 1 year was a tourist for last 10 years. Public washroom at Ogden Point MG OP is owned by GVHA, not the City. GVHA will be coming to the Oct 14 meeting of. JBNA hope you can come and state your comments. 12. Bonnie – lived here for almost 20 years in JB – one of neighbours who sent letters/emails regarding Capital Park, students from UVic UDI club were at the Public Hearing meeting, the neighbours feel they were not acknowledged, did not feel supported by Council. Marg/Tim – agreed with statements – spoke to developers and Mayor Helps about it. The developers did not organize it. 13. Feel there is some unfinished business at Fisherman’s Wharf Park, need crosswalk at St Lawrence and Erie/Dallas Marg – has been told Fisherman’s crosswalk is on the list for 2016. JBNA has identified need for several cross-walks or traffic signs which would benefit residents. 14. Katie Hamilton – asked what were the access points to the city? Marg stated that some staff/Councillors receive minutes and other e-blast. JBNA also has written many letters, had meetings and made presentation on the issues to Council and staff. Fear that many submissions and responses are never even read. For example, with the April letter submitted to Council, no response was received form Council – the press paid more attention to the submission. For example, with the recent motion about tenting in parks, the motion stated only two communities raised concerns, the C ity did not recognize JBNA’s April submission. 15. Brian mentioned issue of traffic and cruise ship emissions. Get regular complaints. JBNA researching load carried within community with survey/research etc Economic spillover long stay hotels and B & B’s medium transients population during winter and spring months and reside in JB. Challenges – environmental, traffic and developments. 16. Miriam – look at traffic out the window now (8;15pm). Choked in JB more than hour after Snowbird show. Has real issue with cruise ships, great number of people walking. numbers too many – late at night – pollution, noise, smell. Love 10K, Canada Day, but there is a saturation to what JB residents can contend with. Feels city ignores the people who live in the community over the other interests. 17. Angus – 3 yr resident at 50 Dallas Rd. Many issues. Sewage treatment proposals, 72% have suggested Rock Bay, haven’t seen the results of survey and what else being currently looked at. Other issues, noise, fumes, buses, helijets. 11:30 or midnight on Friday and Saturdays can’t open windows due to noise, question of quality of life, and the profits of the cruise ships. What about the residents of JB? Has to be a balance, who is testing the buses. Walks or bikes into town smelled diesel fuel all the way into the core of the city, this is a major problem. Marg – tour buses used to park at Dockside Green, have been now moved to JB. 18. ??? – closing streets, changes transportation flow. Traffic is bottle necked – need people to direct the traffic 19. Darvin – doesn’t believe City want feedback from residents. There was wide opposition to sewage treatment site at OG and Coastguard location, but Eastside Committee rejected engagement consultants recommendation. Skeptical of City’s sincerity 20. Jack – has worked with federal govt, harbour, for 20 years re water airport regulations and standards. Report was submitted to City in 2012 and City has never contacted him regarding the safety of the residential areas in regards to safety in proximity to an aerodrome. City has done no aeronautical study before authorizing the airport in the harbour. The current airport doesn’t meet the its own draft-regulation measurement requirements to fit in the harbour. When started there were 2000 annual flights there are now 32000. Gave a copy to Katie Hamilton and Jonathon to review. City is responsible to providing compatible land use next to aerodrome. TP1247 land use compatibility. 21. Fran – dog owner, walks mile to get to dog-park, far distant for older dog owners. Could McDonald park perimeter be used as off lease dog-park? Doesn’t want to face a $100 fine for having dog of leash. 22. Kate – away for some time and has seen change since return a year ago. JB has a school centre and a seniors centre but no community centre where anyone can gather, meet – need to create a multi-generational community space. Introduces topic of GVPL survey – hopes library will be part of Capital Park. 23. Sue-Ann – employee of New Horizons – issue of people camping in Irving park and on the roof of the New Horizon building. The by-laws need carried through, have a by-law officer move the people along. Has had to clean human feces off building. Dog owner wants to let dog of leash, sidewalk issue Menzie at Simcoe. Need community policing, drug dealing a problem. Calling 911 doesn’t work. Doesn’t get responses to emails sent to City. Automated response isn’t good enough. 24. Marg – camping of homeless happen in at least 5 areas in James Bay. Residents are being dismissed through shaming – calling them NIMBY and implying not compassionate. This is not nimbyism – residents have a real problem that needs to be addressed. 25. Heddie – lived here 16 years, thank Katie Hamilton and city staff for coming tonight. Seems that many of the voices here tonight haven’t been heard. Hope that messages will be taken back to city hall, and many suggestions of best practice are coming from this room tonight. City should meet with someone from this community on a regular basis, weekly, monthly – please. 26. Janis – impressed with JBNA democracy in action and concerned JBNA no longer has a meeting location. 27. Victoria – citizenship and belonging, people need to feel heard and feel neglected, democratic process is messy not an easy task for politicians or responsible citizens. Have has no illusions about JBNA or city, we need solutions. 28. Tim – speeding – if no enforcement doesn’t matter what speed limit is. Poorest little town in Mexico can afford speed bumps, why can’t JB get traffic calming. The city can enforce their noise by-laws on the freehold property and can enforce the by-laws at OP. Need new noise and emissions by-laws standards. Look at WHO Guidelines. 29. Brian – what could be better, we have 4 city staff and 1 councillor who have sat and listened to us tonight. There are solutions, but what are the trade-offs, JBNA has suggested, what is needed is action by the city. 30. Chris – Douglas Magazine, Randy Wright stating 40% of Harbour Air is now owned by a Chinese consortium. This should be cause fro concern as means a lot of money to be made. 31. Marg – JBNA has asked City to put off considerations for the Menzies Local Area Plan until Capital Park is completed. Asks Katie and Jonathon for closing remarks. 32. Katie H.- suggests Jonathan speak on local area plan. 33. Jonathan – starting to understand best way to come out to speak with and listen to communities, how can we better listen and align our procedures with the different area/neighbourhoods, getting a better understanding of JB specifics of this neighbourhood so it works for residents here. City (Engagement/Planning) wants to understand the issues and create framework that could be tailored for the various neighbourhoods. Message from council to get on with the process sooner than later. How to engage, what is best practice, take in a more information, what are goals of the community, park, transportation. 34. Tim – important for the community and the planner assigned to community to build a relationship. The change of planners of late has been a real challenge. Planners also need to have more focus than just buildings. 35. Marg – problem isn’t who to talk to, problem is getting city to take action. 36. Katie H – closing comment; will continue to have more meetings with community, strong identity in JB, know our neighbourhood, and have ties to community, other neighbourhood associations don’t necessarily have that. Densification in JB, some of real take away, residents should have better notification when a park is closed. A neighbourhood should be able to look at City website to know what is being planned and up and coming. There has been a cookie cutter approach to communities – realise that City needs to look at the differences in order to better serve. Start of a conversation, don’t have all answers. She/others gaining understanding of how neighbourhoods work. 8. Community Concerns: 9. Adjournment: 9 pm &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& September 15 – All-candidates forum jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: September 15 – All-candidates forum Date: Thu, 27 Aug 2015 07:44:10 -0700 JBNA All-Candidates Forum: Tuesday, September 15 ____________________________________________________________ The JBNA is hosting a forum for candidates in the upcoming federal election vying to become Member of Parliament for the Constituency of Victoria. The format will include opening remarks by each candidate, questions and responses, and closing remarks by candidates. During the forum, there will be time for only 6-12 questions depending on the number of candidates. As of today, 3 candidates have registered with Elections Canada; however, 5 have been identified via media. There could be up to 7 candidates declared by September 15. JBNA will be formulating questions prior to the meeting and supplementing them at the meeting as community input is received. Should you have a question you would like asked, please submit the question to JBNA at jbna@vcn.bc.ca . Questions received will be grouped by subject and a composite question created. Only questions falling under federal jurisdiction will be considered. Time will not permit all questions or topics to be brought forward. 7:00-9:30 pm Tuesday, September 15 Laurel Point Inn 680 Montreal St. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& City Notice of Boulevard Tree Removal/Replacemnt at 71 Montreal jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: City Notice of Boulevard Tree Removal/Replacemnt at 71 Montreal Date: Fri, 21 Aug 2015 15:19:46 -0700 Re: Notice of Boulevard Tree Removal and Replacement at 71 Montreal Street Dear Sir/Madam, The boulevard tree located at 71 Montreal Street has been identified for removal due to several large structural roots that were removed during construction of new curb, gutter and sidewalk. After a thorough assessment by the City of Victoria’s Arborist, the entire tree requires removal due to risk of falling during strong winds. The City of Victoria is committed to protecting our urban forest and street tree inventory and although we understand that sometimes trees must be removed due to construction, we take great measures to avoid this wherever possible. A replacement tree will be planted along with 10 new trees in the east boulevard of Montreal Street from Niagara Street to Dallas Road as part of the current project. This work will take place on Monday August 24, 2015. The wood produced will be left on the boulevard in manageable sized pieces for the public to take, on a first come, first serve basis. We appreciate any comments or questions you may have. Please contact Jordan Sundher at 250.361.1315 or at jsundher@victoria.ca. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& City Notice of Boulevard Tree Removal/Replacemnt at 71 Montreal jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: City Notice of Boulevard Tree Removal/Replacemnt at 71 Montreal Date: Fri, 21 Aug 2015 15:19:21 -0700 Re: Notice of Boulevard Tree Removal and Replacement at 71 Montreal Street Dear Sir/Madam, The boulevard tree located at 71 Montreal Street has been identified for removal due to several large structural roots that were removed during construction of new curb, gutter and sidewalk. After a thorough assessment by the City of Victoria’s Arborist, the entire tree requires removal due to risk of falling during strong winds. The City of Victoria is committed to protecting our urban forest and street tree inventory and although we understand that sometimes trees must be removed due to construction, we take great measures to avoid this wherever possible. A replacement tree will be planted along with 10 new trees in the east boulevard of Montreal Street from Niagara Street to Dallas Road as part of the current project. This work will take place on Monday August 24, 2015. The wood produced will be left on the boulevard in manageable sized pieces for the public to take, on a first come, first serve basis. We appreciate any comments or questions you may have. Please contact Jordan Sundher at 250.361.1315 or at jsundher@victoria.ca. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Greater Victoria Public Library Survey – James Bay Branch jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: Greater Victoria Public Library Survey – James Bay Branch Date: Sun, 16 Aug 2015 07:47:14 -0700 James Bay Library Branch Opportunity: Resident Opinions sought The Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) has launched a survey and asks residents to provide input as to the type of library would be best for James Bay. The survey is very short, taking only a few minutes to complete. Background: o The promises of the Victoria Accord have been rewritten in a Master Development Agreement (MDA) that identifies 700 square meters (about 7,500 sq ft) as being made available for a library. o The JBNA resident Victoria Accord survey done in 2013 showed great support for a multi-purpose/library facility as being the desired amenity of Capital Park. The time is now: o Facility space: Each municipality provides space (leased or owned by municipality) for any GVPL branch while the GVPL provides funding for set-up and operating. Partner municipalities in the GVPL contribute finances to GVPL. o The City of Victoria must pay “market rates” for Capital Park facility space. o Upon completion of Capital Park, “new” property tax revenue from 235,000 sq ft of office space, 155,000 sq ft of residential space, and 17,000 sq ft of retail space will more than offset the City’s costs for Library space. o The City has a limited time to take-up the offer to lease the premises. Once the option time expires, the developer may lease the space to a third party. The City has the opportunity, in years ahead, to request the space. Such a request must be at least 2 years before space is desired and may be filled 15 years later as third party leases expire. o The City and GVPL long-term plans envision the main Library (Currently on Broughton) relocating north, near or at Centennial Square. The GVPL survey is found at: www.gvpl.ca/jamesbay &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& JBNA August Directors’ Report jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: JBNA August Directors’ Report Date: Thu, 13 Aug 2015 19:19:24 -0700 JBNA Directors’ Report: August 12th, 2015 Call for Artist Volunteers: JBNA has a project in mind that requires the assistance of an artist, or two. If you are a practicing artist or have past experience in the creation of graphic art, please consider volunteering. Contact Marg at marg.jbna@shaw.ca or 250-360-0300. Call for proposals/submissions – JB Garden Coordination: As part of the City’s initiative to encourage food production by residents, JBNA will receive a small facilitation grant. If you are interested in one or more of the 2015/16 objectives (below), contact Marg at marg.jbna@shaw.ca or 250-360-0300 to discuss. The JBNA proposal can be found in the news bulletin box at www.jbna.org. ~ creating an inventory of current gardening in James Bay ~ develop a proposal for submission to the City for a Community Orchard ~ write short “Garden Tips” articles to encourage gardening ~ create incentives to encourage gardening in James Bay ~ coordinate/assist harvesting or work-bees (timing and e-blast) of gardeners JBNA General Meetings Venue: The location for the September 9th meeting needs to be confirmed. JBNA received a May 15th dated letter from the Chair of New Horizons Board stating that JBNA would no longer be permitted to use New Horizons space for meetings or other purposes. No rationale was provided. In late May, Mayor Helps committed to ensuring that appropriate meeting space in James Bay will be available to JBNA by September 1st. The September 9th and October 14th meetings will be of interest to many in JB: September: JB Library proposal, Capital Park, and the CRD Eastside sewage committee. October: the Clipper (tentative) and GVHA Ogden Point MasterPlan. A notice will be sent via JBNA e-listings and a NewsBulletin posted on the JBNA website (www.jbna.org) informing residents, the week of the meeting, of the location. City works in James Bay: Sidewalk and southbound lane work on Government Street will soon be completed. New signal lights will be installed at Government/Superior sometime in the next few weeks. Work on the sidewalk/paving on Montreal Street and the turf and sprinkling system upgrades in McDonald Park will continue into September. Eastside WasteWater & Camping in Parks: JBNA continues to monitor City discussions on these matters and will notify members of any new developments. Wastewater/sewage: Ogden Point/Coast Guard remains on 5 of the 6 sites being considered for a wastewater treatment facility. Camping in Parks: All/any City park may be under consideration by the City to host a tent-camp. JBNA made a submission to the City in April requesting that no tent-camp be set up in James Bay. Currently, camping occurs in at least 5 locations in James Bay. Cruise-related Buses: The GVHA-commissioned Transportation Strategy Report has been completed but a release date has not been announced. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Revised agenda for JBNA August 12 meeting jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: Revised agenda for JBNA August 12 meeting Date: Mon, 10 Aug 2015 21:55:53 -0700 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION Monthly Meeting Agenda 7:00pm – 9:00pm Wednesday, August 12th, 2015 James Bay New Horizons – 234 Menzies St Agenda 1. Welcome & Announcements 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Correspondence/Announcements · Circulating Correspondence file 4. Minutes of July 8th meeting 5. Tour de Victoria: 2015 update (tentative) Seamus McGrath 6. James Bay and City of Victoria Planning Jim Handy, Senior Planner 7. City of Victoria: Great Neighbourhoods Initiative Jonathan Tinney, Director, Sustainable Planning & Community Development Kristina Bouris, Senior Planner, Community Planning Katie Hamilton, Director, Citizen Engagement and Strategic Planning Julie Potter, Manager, Citizen Engagement 1. Great Neighbourhoods Initiative • Overview • Early thoughts 2. Tell Us About James Bay • Current opportunities and issues, current challenges and demands 3. Share Your Experience with the City: • What works well, what could be better 4. Local Area Plans • What are they and what can they be • How can they be done 8. Community Concerns FM headphones may be available at the meeting for those with hearing loss. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& August 12 Meeting/Events and July 8th JBNA Meeting Minutes jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: August 12 Meeting/Events and July 8th JBNA Meeting Minutes Date: Sun, 2 Aug 2015 08:02:11 -0700 August 12: Snowbirds followed by JBNA General Meeting ______________________________________________________ 6:00 pm – The Royal Canadian Snowbirds, Canada’s airforce aerobatics team, will be performing their close-formation flying along the Dallas waterfront over Clover Point from 6 to 6:45 pm 7:00 pm – City staff from Planning and the new NEIGHBOURHOOD team will be seeking resident input as to what the City should be doing for neighbourhoods. This is your opportunity to hear about local area planning and for you to offer your thoughts on what the City should be doing to enhance the quality of life of James Bay residents within the City’s planning functions. 234 Menzies -New horizons bldg. September 9 JBNA General Meeting: Looking ahead, the September meeting promises to be interesting with presentations from the GVPL (Library) who will present the James Bay library at Capital Park proposal and representatives from CALWMC (CRD Eastside Sewage Committee) who will provide information and answer questions about the options being considered which involve Ogden Point as a site for part of the sewage treatment. _________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION MINUTES General Meeting July 8th, 2015 1. Welcome: 7:05 pm (46 in attendance) Wayne Shillington: Chair, Trevor Moat recorded minutes City of Victoria Councillor present Liaison, Margaret Lucas 2. Agenda: m/s/c 3. Minutes of June 10th, 2015 Approved m/s/c 4. Correspondence – accepted as circulated m/s/c 5. All About Trees: Robert Hughes presented “Tree Assessment” with PPT slides Q/A: Q – What happens if a protected tree is taken down on private property? A – It must be replaced. $250 deposit applied, plant within one year. Q – Developer removed a tree on city property – onus to replace? A – Not sure, but usually required in two years. Q – I want to plant a memorial tree – whom do I call? A – Call my office. C – When I call I can’t get through? C – 636 Montreal Street to Kingston/Superior Streets – need pruning over side walk. Q – Do you have a list of appropriate trees to plant? A – Yes, we list “preferred trees A – Not on the website yet, I have it Q – Are dogwoods protected? A – Yes, by the Dogwood, Rhododendron and Trillium Protection act, not by the City. C – I’m concerned about replacement of trees with concrete – please stop. R – That’s not my department – normally consultation takes place. Q – What about tree removal at Capital Park? A – Formal plan not yet finalized. Q – What happens to trees after removal? A – We contact the Woodworkers Guild. Very good for community. Q – Do you replace with similar trees? A – Native yes, but climate change is an issue. Q – What is your policy on retention of continuous canopy? A – We love it, but it’s hard to maintain. Q – What authority do you have on private property? A – Whenever tree permits are involved. Q – Can anything be done once fungus/infections start? A – It is experimental – water/fertilizer/treatments. Usually it’s too late. C – I’ve had very good service from the parks department. 6. Niagara Boulevard Garden Presentation by Maurita Prato (LifeCycles) and MaryLynne Reimer (garden coordinator) Q/A: Q – Will the plots be fenced? A – Yes, we hope so, to discourage dogs and balls. C – I live within two blocks of the site. I think it would be better placed on the grass near the existing Montreal Street garden site. R – I believe the option was considered and rejected. C – I support the proposal but don’t want a precedent to be set for allotments on public lands. I would also suggest mandatory 10% stewardship/use turnover per year, and use by James Bay residents in apartments only. R – Most of those stipulations are in our rules already. Q – Canopy trees – are they cedars? Has thought been given to roots? A – The plots will be raised beds. C – I live across the street. I’m not happy at all. This is a beautifully designed boulevard. This area is cold, windy and polluted. I don’t think it’s the right location. I’m disappointed in the city process regarding food future. R – We agree there are site problems. The City is planning a land inventory to grow food. C – I live on Montreal, and have an allotment garden. This is a long stretch for watering. This might be a problem for water pressure. C – I’m completely in favour of the project. Add some whimsy – living fence, cob house. C – I don’t think it’s a great location, but there is a plot of grass near Montreal St. garden that could be used. C – I’m a dock Street resident – very near here. I agree the best place is the park beside New Horizons. I’m disappointed that the City did not lead better. Why was the New Horizons area not accepted? (Irving Park). R – We don’t know – City didn’t tell us. C – I live on Dallas, involved in James Bay Garden Association. I too have concerns about City’s lack of leadership. We have long wait lists for allotments. This is not a great site. There are high winds here, no room for wind break. Irving Park would be ideal. I support multi-uses of parks. C – I LIVE ON Montreal, just north of Niagara. This is not a great place – it’s cold and windy; and what about land ownership and tenure? R – No change in tenure. Proposal renewed every three years. Q – How do you control who uses gardens and what’s planted? A – We (society) monitor that through user agreements. C – I’m concerned about parking impacts. R – Most people walk or use bikes. Q – Has the City approved 18 plots, or is this your proposal? A – City suggested range of 5 – 10 plots, we said it was not worth the effort. This design maximizes the number of plots, not the beauty of the layout. C – I live a block away. The street vista is beautiful, and trees serve function of protection from balls. I’m concerned about liability if it’s not caged. I don’t think it’s viable. C – I live on lower Government. I’m new to James Bay. I agree with previous comments. C – I think Jawl properties should implement an allotment garden. C – I live on Toronto Street. I think Irving Park is a vastly superior use. An apiary is now there – a garden is consistent with that, and gardeners will provide continuous oversight. C – I value keeping parks open for anyone’s use. Allotments are exclusive to a small group of people. We have very little park land left. I was in favour of north side of Rithet Street. R – City did not see Rithet as developable in short term. C – City only has five allotments and there are precedents. R – City is commissioning a survey soon around food self sufficiency. 7. Community Concerns – There was a lot of talk last meeting regarding Montreal Street road/sidewalk improvements. Could this have been better spent? – Can we prohibit cycling on David Foster Way? – Ladysmith resident – can we use city boulevards for private gardens? – Disappointed in sewage process. I think James Bay concerns need to be amplified. 8. Adjournment 9:00 pm &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& IMPORTANT Sewage Survey & July Directors Report jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: IMPORTANT Sewage Survey & July Directors Report Date: Fri, 10 Jul 2015 14:31:24 -0700 JBNA Directors’ Report: July 8th, 2015 JBNA Committees: Thank you to those who responded to our call for involvement on the development review and other committees. Great to have new thoughts and perspectives on committees. REMINDER – JULY 13th Deadline EastSide Sewage Treatment Consultation: The CRD-Eastside Committee has proposed 6 options for consideration for siting of the waste-water treatment facilities. Five of the options include Ogden Point/Coast Guard. James Bay is one of the most densely populated neighbourhoods in the CRD, with cooperative housing, townhouse complexes, apartment residences, condominiums and some single-family residences within 25-100 feet of the proposed site. However, the Eastside Committee does not consider the Ogden Point and Coast Guard properties to be “directly adjacent to a single family residential neighbourhood”. The Eastside process has skewed options away from Oak Bay and much of Saanich. The Eastside Committee has posted a survey, asking for public input on the site options by July 13. https://www.crd.bc.ca/project/eastside-community-dialogue James Bay residents are urged to complete the survey and add appropriate comments by July 13th. Trees: The City Arborist has notified JBNA of the need to remove a Mountain Ash tree located on the Kingston St. frontage of Polo Pacific, 405 Quebec Street. Unfortunately this small tree was in severe decline and reached the point that it needs to be removed and replaced. The removal has taken place and replanting will occur this fall. Cruise-ships: Although sulphur dioxide levels are lower, residents continue to experience irritating emissions. Cruise-ships remain the dominating contributing source of sulphur dioxide for Victoria. This is disappointing. Buses: The GVHA-commissioned Transportation Strategy Report should be completed soon but a release date has not been announced. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& JBNA Wednesday, July 8 Meeting agenda jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: JBNA Wednesday, July 8 Meeting agenda Date: Sat, 4 Jul 2015 19:43:24 -0700 The meeting of July 8 will focus on trees and the proposed Niagara Boulevard garden. Please bring your questions about City boulevard and parks trees. ________________________________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION Monthly Meeting Agenda 7:00pm – 9:00pm Wednesday, July 8th, 2015 James Bay New Horizons – 234 Menzies St Agenda 1. Welcome & Announcements 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Correspondence/Announcements · Circulating Correspondence file 4. Minutes of June 10th meeting 5. Trees: Assessment Criteria and Decision-making Robert Hughes, Supervisor of Parks Operations Arboriculture & Natural Areas, City of Victoria 6. Niagara Boulevard Garden: Introducing the Garden of All Sorts MaryLynne Rimer, Garden Coordinator 7. Community Concerns (time permitting) FM headphones may be available at the meeting for those with hearing loss. _______________________________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION MINUTES General Meeting June 10th, 2015 1. Welcome: 7:05 pm (86 in attendance) Marg Gardiner: Chair, Wayne Shillington recorded minutes City of Victoria Councillors present Liaison, Margaret Lucas 2. Agenda: Moved by Tim VanAlstine seconded by Wayne Shillington, carried 3. Correspondence/Announcements a. Marg thanked everyone who participated in the sewage siting workshops on May 30 and 31. b. Correspondence files were circulated to everyone present 4. Minutes of May 13th, 2015 Approved m/s/c 5. New Sidewalk in James Bay – Montreal St South Nick Armstrong, Transportation Technician Jordan Wenzel, Street Design, City of Victoria Engineering & Public Works a. Slides were presented describing the planned work to be completed on Montreal between Niagara and Dallas b. Besides the sidewalk, there will be irrigation and trees added Q/A: Comment: Tim – Montreal St. – Kudos to the City for doing this. This has been a terrible ugly area with parking of derelict cars and boats and other junk. Comment: Nickolas at 145 Montreal St. – The city did his section of Montreal St. last year and it is very good. Parking is an issue for residents. Requested the City consider increasing the time when parking is restricted to residents only. Answer: Will talk to you after meeting and give contact information Question: What is the project timeframe? A: Work starts in late June with sewage work and paving will be completed in August. Question: Pat – Dock St – Properties at the end of Montreal and Niagara have recently been sold and will likely undergo development. Could the sidewalk project be coordinated with that development? A: While the City will look at this suggestions, it is very unlikely they will be coordinated as the sidewalk project has very tight timelines and there has been no specific development proposed for the sites mentioned and it would take several months from that point before any work would proceed. 6. Capital Park: Update and Relocation of Heritage Houses to Dallas Rd. Heritage Houses – Karen Jawl, Jawl Properties Update – Rob Jawl, Jawl Properties 6.1 Capital Park: Proposed relocation of Michigan Street heritage homes to Dallas Road – Karen Jawl a) Several sites in James Bay have been considered in recent months. The preferred site was subsequently sold and is no longer available. A list of available sites was discussed with the City and the chosen site was selected as the best available option. b) The two houses will be relocated to 224 Dallas Road. While this site is currently occupied by a large older home it is a double lot already zoned for two separate houses. The existing house will either be sold and moved, or be dismantled. c) A height variance is needed. As with many heritage homes, these two somewhat exceed the City’s current height limits for new construction. A shadow study has been completed and shows very little difference from what exists with the house currently located on the site. d) A side yard variance is needed to accommodate the two houses on the split lot. On the East side the distance would be reduced to 1 meter from the zoning standard of 1.5 meters. On the West side 2 meters from 3.5 meters. e) While sightlines will be impacted by the houses, this will be minimized by the dimensions and location of the houses as well as by reducing the existing large vegetation. A view cone analysis shows a reduction of 4% from what would be allowed for new construction under the existing zoning. Additionally, the existing high vegetation will be reduced to improve sightlines and view for neighboring properties. f) Boulevard trees will not be impacted by the relocation and move-on of the houses. g) Once relocated the two heritage houses will be remediated and brought up to current codes, returned to single family residences, and formal heritage designation will be sought. 6.2 General Capital Park Project Update – Rob Jawl a) The development permit for Phase I was approved in May b) Phase I steps forward: • Deconstruction and hoarding will begin in July • Heritage homes relocation work will begin in August • By November the Government will have vacated all facilities on the site, except for building closest to Queen’s Printer Building. • The project is on schedule for occupancy by summer 2017. Q/A Question: Sue – 600 Michigan St. – What decibel level of noise can local residents expect during construction? A: Construction will inevitably cause some noise and dust, but these will be actively minimized. Digging is primarily in soil and clay with very little need for blasting of rock. Activity time will be kept within a 7:30 am to 5:00 pm window. Question: 415 Michigan St. – From what parts of the local neighborhood will the dome still be able to be seen? A: As was presented during the approval process, careful attention has been paid to preserving sightlines and in some cases enhancing sightlines from what was in the Victoria Accord. Five Corners will still have a clear view of the dome. Question: Where will you operate from for equipment loading/unloading and storage? A: The site is very large and being developed in stages; therefore, most of that activity will be done within the hoarding perimeter. The quiet small nature of Michigan is acknowledged so most traffic will be accessing the site from Menzies or Superior. Question: Dock St resident – Likes look of the proposal, knows the people who are neighbours and wants them to be “happy”. What is being done regarding site-lines and views? A: In addition to the placement of the east house further back on the site, the high plantings will be removed and lower planting placed on the site. The issue of a second parking pad is still being looked at. The houses will move on to the new site in September. Question: This lot has been a single house lot. Did you look at 2 different lots for the houses leaving only one of the houses here? Concerned that heights and look will have impact on nearby properties when/if they are developed. A: The site is historically approved for 2 separate houses. While some variances are needed to accommodate two intact heritage houses, the site density, shadowing, and sightlines will be less impacted by the 2 heritage houses than by a multi-family development that would likely be built if the heritage houses were not placed there. Question: Marg read, for the public record, two letters from area residents regarding siting of the 2 heritage houses at 224 Dallas. The immediate neighbor behind the site disagrees with the plan as it will reduce his view. A resident of Pilot Street is concerned that the houses are too large for the proposed site and suggested alternate sites, including the possibility or relocation outside James Bay. A: As had already been described, careful attention has been paid to minimizing impact on sightlines and view cone. A: Relocation of the 2 heritage houses within James Bay was a condition of the original project approval. As was described, numerous sites within James Bay were considered – some were too small another very good site was sold – in the end a list was reviewed with the City and, while not perfect, 224 Dallas was determined to be the best site available. Comment: Most heritage houses in James Bay exceed current zoning limits and would require variances if constructed today. Thanks for your extraordinary effort to achieve a good result. Question: When will the variance hearing be held for the heritage houses? A: August 7. 701 Belleville: Crystal Court Transformation a. Brian McCauley, President & COO, Concert, introduced members of the project team: • Ken Bogress, Senior VP Development, Concert Properties • Dean Johnson, Development Manager, Concert Properties • Adena Waffle, Director, Seniors housing, Concert Properties • David Simpson, Design Principal, DYS Architecture • Colin Shrubb, Principal, DYS Architecture • Bruce Hemstock, PWL Partnership Landscape Architects • Peter Joyce, President, Bunt & Associates b. Following this evening’s presentation, a development permit will be sought from the City and the formal review/approval process will begin. c. The project will create a seniors lifestyle community (Tapestry program) including condo and rental accommodation as well as common amenities and retail space. d. Brian outlined the project’s overall principles: • Integrating into the community • High quality • Consistency with Bellville Street amenities and views in all directions (toward St. Ann’s Academy, Parliament, and across to the Empress), including pedestrian considerations • Sustainability at the highest possible level • Provide an operating and service model to complement what is currently available in James Bay e. Dave Simpson of DYS Architecture presented the project design, including: site location, project plan relative to the site being a meeting point of 3 communities – Downtown, Fairfield, and James Bay. Six design principles were presented: • The development will complete the block to create a comprehensive plan that draws pedestrian traffic toward a focal point entry to St. Ann’s Academy. • The ground level uses must animate the Esplanade experience. • The development massing should define the open space and signal the terminus of the Esplanade. It should be the focal point for the converging 3 neighbourhoods. • The building components should be arranged in a way that strengthens the Esplanade character and creates an edge to the adjacent open space. • The new massing and uses should complete the Belleville/Douglas corner and create an enticing gateway to this unique segment of the Esplanade. • The building forms and character should create a sense of progression from the Douglas/Belleville corner to the Saint Anne’s open space focal point. f. Dave also presented information about the building massing and shadowing: • 4 stories along Bellville – 1 commercial and 3 residential • 15 stories of residential at the corner of Bellville and Blanchard • The building was kept low along Bellville to reduce shadows, preserve sightlines from building behind, and match the scale of the street. • A wide pedestrian Esplanade will be constructed along Bellville to enhance street level activity and amenities as well as to separate pedestrians from the street. g. Bruce Hemstock, landscape architect, presented the landscape design: • Public garden space between the new building and the Q helping to improve the attractiveness of the surface parking and services area for trucks and waste. • There will be a rainwater garden and trees along the esplanade between the sidewalk and the street. Q/A: Question: Will the traffic barrier at Belleville and Blanchard remain (the triangle)? People driving in need to turn in – awkward turn. A: That corner is being discussed with the City as they have some long tern plans for that intersection and related streets as well as the intersection of Blanchard, Douglas, and Superior. Question: Landmark building resident – 15 storeys is twice the height of the two existing adjacent buildings and will block the view of St. Ann’s. A: The proposed building complies with the City’s recently approved OCP and DCAP plans that outline a maximum height of 15 storeys. The massing of height into the very east end of the property with the balance being only 4 stories is the best option for overall sightlines. Question: The amount of parking, 80 for 170 residents, seems inadequate. A: Concert owns 3 similar seniors properties in Vancouver and Toronto. Based on that experience the number of parking spaces is sufficient for expected demand. The number of parking spaces planned meets the City’s planning/zoning requirements. Question: Entrance to the parking is off Belleville. Drivers traveling west on Bellville must make a left turn on a very busy street. A: Vehicle traffic with this type of building is very light, 80 vehicles/hour. The old motel site had several driveways off Belleville and the proposed project will have only one which is very flat and open making it very safe. Other locations for the driveway were considered but only the Bellville location was feasible. The Tapestry program has a shuttle for residents. Question: Sandra from Parry Street – Residents of Parry St. have experienced problems with garbage pick trucks dropping numerous bins on Parry St. for the compacting truck to service later. How will waste management be handled in the proposed building? A: All waste bins will be serviced on site by the compacting truck in the carriageway. There will not be any off-site bin drops. Question: Betty from Fairfield – A concern was raised about the amount of park space for the population density of the building. What is the ratio of park space to residents? A: Don’t know the proportion. There is a large amount of park space along Bellville so this area is well served by park space. Question: What are the planned setbacks for the building? A: The setback at Douglas is 10 feet and the Belleville/Blanchard corner it is 13 to 14 feet. Question: What is the intention for the large wall on the building’s west end facing Douglas? Will it be conservative or gaudy? A: Materials on the large solid wall facing Douglas will be something that matches with the Empress such as tyndall stone that creates a conservative elegant appearance. It will not be gaudy. Question: What will it cost to live in the building? A: Prices are not yet set. It should be noted that there were a few residents from Fairfield and Downtown present at the meeting. 8. Adjournment 8:50 pm ********************************************************* July 13 Deadline: Sewage Treatment Site jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: July 13 Deadline: Sewage Treatment Site Date: Thu, 2 Jul 2015 11:18:33 -0700 To: James Bay Residents From: Marg Gardiner, JBNA Re: Sewage: Proposed Treatment Plant in James Bay The Eastside (Victoria/Saanich/OakBay) Committee, an official CRD sub-committee, has selected six configurations of sites for further consideration. FIVE of the Eastside Options include a major treatment facility at Ogden Point. The Eastside Committee has posted a survey, asking for public input on the site options by July 13. Mayor Helps encourages residents to “vote”. CRD Eastside Dialogue survey https://www.crd.bc.ca/project/eastside-community-dialogue If you wish to write a letter in addition to completing the survey, e-addresses are: Eastside Amanda Gibbs City of Victoria Mayor and Council James Bay residents are urged to complete the survey and add appropriate comments. It is crucial that James Bay residents make their views known before July 13. Impacts accompanying a facility in James Bay may include: ~ odour ~ emissions (if gasification chosen for biosolids management) ~ traffic associated with trucking of bio-solids or intermediate forms of sewage ~ noise associated with the plant operations and traffic. Factors NOT considered by the Eastside Committee include: ~ impacts on residents (except residents in detached single family residences) ~ prevailing SW winds which may take odours/emissions to residential areas (or alternatively, away from residences if sites on the eastside of the peninsula had been seriously considered). Notes: James Bay is one of the most densely populated neighbourhoods in the CRD, with cooperative housing, townhouse complexes, apartment residences, condominiums and some single family residences within 25-100 feet of the proposed sites. However, the Eastside Committee does not consider the James Bay sites to be “directly adjacent to a single family residential neighbourhood”. The Eastside definition of residential neighbourhood has skewed options away from Oak Bay and much of Saanich. The Eastside Committee site selection was limited by considering only sites offered by the municipalities while not considering other sites that showed possibilities. Seismic and liquefaction factors were considered for eliminating some sites while similar factors were not considered for other sites (e.g. the probability of liquefaction with a seismic event for most of Ogden/Coast Guard site is very high). _____________________________________________________ Appendix 1: Options identified by Eastside Committee: https://www.crd.bc.ca/project/eastside-community-dialogue From the Option Set Summary Chart: (“Victoria Outer Harbour” refers to Ogden Point and/or the Coast Guard site) 1. One Centralized Plant: Victoria Outer Harbour 2. One Centralized Plant: Rock Bay Area 3. Two Plant: Victoria Outer Harbour + Rock Bay Area 4. Three Plant: Victoria Outer Harbour + Rock Bay Area + East Saanich 5. Four Plant: Victoria Outer Harbour + Rock Bay Area + East Saanich + Oak Bay 6. Five Plant: Victoria Outer Harbour + Rock Bay Area + Oak Bay + Saanich Core + East Saanich Note: The Options may not appear in this order when taking the survey. _____________________________________________________ Appendix 2: Information provided on the Westside Committee website: https://www.crd.bc.ca/docs/default-source/Wastewater-Planning-2014/150121fact-sheet-2-how-do-we-treat.pdf?sfvrsn=2 The steps below describe wastewater treatment in simplifi¬ed terms: 1. Wastewater flows from the sewer system into the wastewater treatment facility. 2. Large debris is screened out and taken to the landfi¬ll. 3. Most of the remaining solids settle to the bottom of the tank and are removed. (Primary Treatment – does not meet regulatory requirements) 4. The resulting partially clarified liquid is often treated with microbes to break down any remaining solids. (Secondary Treatment) 5. Secondary treated wastewater may be disposed of directly into the environment, or a¬ltered & disinfected and used for non-drinking uses. (Tertiary Treatment) Biosolid Management 1. One option for treatment for solids is gasification to produce heat and syn-gas. Gasification, properly controlled, reduces complex pollutants to more simple substances, but heavy metals still remain in the ash of the process. In addition, lighter pollutants must be prevented from exiting the process in the flue gas to protect the airshed environment. Syn-gas can be burned to generate electricity. 2. A second option for organic solids treatment is bio-digestion. Remaining organic solids are broken down in a digester, resulting in disinfected biosolids that will still carry pollutants such as heavy metals. Digestion produces biogas, which can be burned to generate power. 3. Treated biosolids from bio-digestion usually have most water removed (squeezed, thermally dried) in preparation for other uses like soil conditioners or fuel pellets. 4. Dewatered biosolids can be transported to a waste energy facility, further dried, mixed with non-sewage garbage or excess kitchen scraps and utilized as fuel in integrated waste management systems, e.g. gasification. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& JBNA June Directors Report jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: JBNA June Directors Report Date: Fri, 19 Jun 2015 09:35:17 -0700 JBNA Directors’ Report: June 10th, 2015 JBNA Committees: Residents interested in serving on JBNA committees such as the development review committee and the special projects committee are invited to e-mail jbna@vcn.bc.ca telling a bit about yourself including areas of interests. Cruise-ships: Repositioning of ships has finished; the regular season has begun with the Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays seeing 2-4 ships each night. Sulphur dioxide: By the end of June, we will have a better handle on the levels of SO2 this year. Although levels appear lower, we are aware of the westerly winds taking the plume off monitor as complaints have been received from residents to the east of Ogden point all the way to Douglas Street. Buses: The old stinky noisy 1983/84 buses continue to be supported by GVHA. City of Victoria: May 30th/31st EastSide Sewage Treatment Consultation: Sessions both days were long and arduous from 10-4. Over a dozen residents from James Bay attended the May 31st workshop to discuss the locations suggested by Victoria, Oak Bay, and Saanich for sewage treatment sites. All but one JB resident strongly opposed Beacon Hill Park, Finlayson Point and Holland Park as sites. Residents also suggested that James Bay was already overburdened by cruise-industry impacts, hence Ogden/Coast Guard sites were also not suitable to them. Site identification will be further discussed at CRD events on June 10th and June 24th. http://www.crd.bc.ca/project/eastside-community-dialogue/sewage-and-treatment Collection Box Sidewalk Obstacle: Without City permission/permit, a charity had deposited large collection containers, about 7’high x 4’wide x 3’ deep, on sidewalks throughout the City. In James Bay, the sidewalk by Little Gem on Superior was impeded for months. The City has had the operator remove all boxes. THANK YOU VICTORIA Sites for Sheltering facilities: City staff has recommended several parks for use as “sheltering” sites for homeless. None of the recommended parks are in James Bay. Events in and around: James Bay Market: 9-3 every Saturday throughout the summer, corner of Superior and Menzies. NEW MARKET *** Breakwater Market Sundays: 11-4 July through August GVHA: Ogden Point: Nothing new to report Strategic Plan: GVHA is seeking comments – see main page of GVHA.CA Proposals: (Note: Contact City Planning @ 250-361-0523 for details) Coming someday: Ogden Point In City process: 121 Menzies, 135 Medana, The “O” liquor licence, 89 Dallas (Helijet), Capital Park Heritage House relocations, Crystal Court 701 Belleville ***************************************************** June Agenda and May Minutes jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: June Agenda and May Minutes Date: Tue, 26 May 2015 06:15:25 -0700 JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION Monthly Meeting Agenda 7:00pm – 9:00pm Wednesday, June 10th, 2015 James Bay New Horizons – 234 Menzies St Agenda 1. Welcome & Announcements 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Correspondence/Announcements · Circulating Correspondence file 4. Minutes of May 13th meeting 5. New Sidewalk in James Bay – Montreal St South Nick Armstrong, Transportation Technician City of Victoria Engineering & Public Works 7. Capital Park: Proposed relocation of Michigan Street heritage homes to Dallas Road and General Capital Park Project Update Rob Jawl (Update), Jawl Properties Karen Jawl (Heritage Houses), Jawl Properties John Keay, Keay Cecco Architecture Ltd 8. 701 Belleville: Crystal Court Transformation Brian McCauley, President & Chief Operating Officer, Concert Ken Bogress, Senior VP Development, Concert Properties Dean Johnson, Development Manager, Concert Properties Adena Waffle, Director, Seniors housing, Concert Properties David Simpson, DYS Architecture Derek Lee, PWL Partnership Landscape Architects FM headphones may be available at the meeting for those with hearing loss. ____________________________________________________________________________ NOTES: 1 – If you wish to have something considered for the agenda, the cutoff date is 3 weeks prior to the regular monthly meeting (held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month). 2 – JBNA, as a Society, is independent of James Bay New Horizons Society. James Bay New Horizons Society is responsible for operations, including rentals, of 234 Menzie _______________________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION MINUTES General Meeting May 13th, 2015 1. Welcome: 7:05 pm (45-50 in attendance) Britta Gundersen-Bryden: Chair, Marg Gardiner recorded minutes City of Victoria Councillors present Liaison, Margaret Lucas Eastside, Marianne Alto 2. Agenda: m/s/c 3. Minutes of April 8th, 2015 Approved m/s/c 4. Correspondence – accepted as circulated m/s/c 5. Helijet Application: Liquor Primary License, 79 Dallas Rd, Ogden Point Bert Hick, Rising Tide Consultants Stephen Baxter, Helijet The Helijet application for primary liquor license is to be limited to passengers in the waiting area of Helijet at Ogden Point. Hours of service restricted 9am-9pm. Capacity of 30. No external advertising. No patio service. One page summary handed out (dated April 10, 2015). Licence application included clause stating Licence is NOT transferable. NOTE: Presentation based on Letter of Intent revised as of May 4, 2015. Q/A: Q – Will there be expansion of Helijet structure/operations? A – Don’t see that. Discussed a year ago but don’t see expansion. C – Good Q – Will there ever be patio service? A – No, would have to come back through process if wanted service outside the building. Also too complicated for serving outside due to necessity of monitoring, sight-lines etc. Q – What is meant by light refreshments? A – Bars, cookies etc. No restaurant or kitchen Q – Was not the Helijet to be temporary – yes or no? A – The relocation to Ogden pre-dated Helijet. Was 30 yrs ago. Now have long-term presence with 10 yr leases. Long lease Q – Ogden Point Café has liquor license – should refer customers to Café and take them there with van. Don’t need this. A – Ogden Point Café would not be feasible. It has a Food service licence; need to order food at café. If customer arrives 20 min ahead of time, then no time to go to/from café and have refreshments C – Appreciate having a glass of wine. Q – Proposal packaged up nicely – taken care of community concerns – great. But don’t you have concerns about drunk passengers? Aren’t you legally liable? A – Staff will have to take course in serving alcohol etc. No difference than if drink elsewhere – need to monitor. Usually, one glass would be all that time would permit. Q – Why 9 am start time? A – Gives flexibility to VIP service. Q – Flown on Helijet – enjoy it. Tight to fit everyone. How long is current lease? A – Don’t recall. Will get back to you. Not known right now – Q – Can you afford the lease A – Tough sometimes Q – Can you limit drink offers to one for each customer? A – Could, but reality is that don’t think it will be needed. C – Thank you for coming. Conditional clause of not transferring the licence was discussed in advance with Tim VanAlstine and Marg Gardiner – to give community assurance that it would not expand. 6. Community Safety: beginning of discussion “panhandling & loitering in JB” Wayne Shillington, JBNA, presented information he received from the recent Police Community Briefing he attended. Anecdotal comments of community members suggested that some people don’t feel quite as safe as they used to. Wayne had researched the issue and his presentation included VicPD safety report findings and the VicPd incident map. JB incident level was relatively low – not much different than other residential communities. He was surprised wasn’t more given the proximity to downtown. He found, from discussion with local businesses in/near 5-corners, that the coffee-shop talk was reaffirmed. Talk had also referred to Thrifty Foods being open 24-hrs and the bank robbery etc. Discussion Points: ~ Police survey – surveyed 1000 – 50% response rate. Responses suggested resident priorities include: Criminal investigation, tactical emergency, high risk offenders, mental health and intoxication issues (70% of calls not criminal). Residents wanted to see, in order of preference, foot, cycle and vehicle patrols. ~ Does relatively low incident map findings mean less crime here – or is it a reflection of people not reporting. ~ Residents must be eyes and ears of community. ~ Sheltering/Camping: CoV Bylaws– 250-361-0215, police non-emergency 250-995-7654 ~ Heading to more community police model. ~ Partnership with those who live in community – strengthen community liaison officer role. Q/A: C – community is safe – but more on street who do not have a home. Not anyone on street who she feared. Helps panhandlers get to Our Place. But numbers are increasing. These people need a home. Micro-housing. Eugene Oregon. Problem increasing every year. No real washroom for them to use that is open all night. More and more turning to bushes. Irving park is a minefield. Asked Mayor to put port-o-potties on Dallas Road. Didn’t get a satisfactory answer. C – Has there been many incidents of violence? A – some incidents – complaints about people across from Thrifty foods C – McDonald Park not open at night. Would like to see Block Watch. Broken into twice. Sees that elders might feel intimidated. C – wants more community policing. Have concern for seniors with scooters/walking, young families. Have had to dial 911. Excrement on streets etc a real concern. Residents are concerned about security of their homes. C – dog watch program would be useful – should explore. Washrooms are expensive and get trashed quickly. Does not support more. C – need a 24-hr washroom. He and neighbours generous with providing recyclables to homeless. Last year a bigger tough guy moved in so couldn’t so that. C – lives across form McDonald Park. Need some washrooms if they stay in parks. But, bothered by debris as well. 2 incidents where had to call City staff re junk. Dog sick because it was affected by other dog. Seeing an increase – not afraid – but there are people who hang in front of Thrifty food. Community needs to be proactive. Dog watch sounds great. When she walks her dog, men alone at 5:30 am make her uncomfortable. C – Police presence important as has seen bad things. Washrooms are a tough issue. hard – need – huge challenges – don’t want to see in residential neighbourhood. C – JB has first City bike stands installed in 5-corners. Took 8 months to get. Will help cut down on loitering. Heard a middle of the night ruckus – stabbing – impressed that police there in a minute or two. C – Need washrooms like the portable one downtown. 7. Sewage Treatment Update Eastside Public Advisory Committee Amanda Gibbs, Eastside Consultant Councilor Alto, CRD Eastside Marianne Alto explained the process to date, the Eastside consultation and the Victoria stand-alone fall back. Saanich, Oak Bay/Victoria gave their list of sites each municipality identified as possible sites. Each municipality used their own criteria for selection. Example of criterion – proximity to homes and proximity to other things. Over next month – opportunities for public to add own list of criterion. Set of principles/filters will be applied to proposed sites. Next week more info about capacity and sizes will be released. May 30/31 events at UVic and Conference Centre will be interactive and provide opportunities for input. By June 10th all info will be distilled into proposals and then blended with west side process. Following this exercise a series of recommendations will be developed and submitted to the CRD. CoV saw failure of CRD and said we will keep working but have own plan B (or C). Final decision by March 2016. Q/A Q – how was morning session at Crystal Pool thing A – 7 people; 2 engineers and good discussion Q – Need balance with technical expertise and opinions and strong ideas Need to educate around criteria. Wants input to be educated and informed Must ensure process is informed and not overtaken by lobby groups. A – Sessions on May 30/31 – much more technical and criteria will be given Discussions will include factors such as trucking routes and future use of different energy systems. There will be maps layering technical considerations. C – has been a political response to the wastewater mandated facility – why get so bogged down so long. C – Need resource recovery – secondary required – not tertiary. A – Eventually will come down to $. Already past deadlines – but because going forward feds have given leeway in deadlines. C – Concerned about parks areas being names. Would like to see visualizations – how much would underground. Congrats on going into problematic areas due to emotional attachments to parks. Why is not Clover Point being considered? A – Confined space would limit growth. Huge failing before was lack of information sharing C – Can’t deal with siting until know the technology. Secondary or tertiary? Places on map are private property – in Saanich – Victoria has served up parks – parks land is special. A – Saanich and Oak Bay used different criteria. CRD will set aside time to sit down with technical issues and community interests. C – Don’t know what looks like – height – noise – emissions, security, etc. C – need to use private land and positive outcome will include increase of public realm C – thanks for approach. Get’er’done. C – Sludge could be barged – don’t need trucks. How many trucks would there be if not barge sludge. James Bay has problems with buses. A – 2-10 trucks per day C – Ogden Point is NOT public land A – Yes, but it is owned by an agency. C – Doing political/consultation before technical is WRONG. C – Saddened to see CoV selected sites. For 160 years when sites needed for something, suggestion is made to consume a park. Need to find private land and buy it, Increase public lands, not consume. C – concerned when hear City speak of collaboration – that usually means City caves. Dockside Green is not always clean – NO emission producing facility should be in Victoria Harbour as emissions will be sent over most densely populated areas in the region. C – James Bay has had very negative impacts from cruise-ships. When Central Saanich had a complaint about odours from food wastes, the CRD Chair, Mayor of Central Saanich closed down the facility. Mayors Brysen, Desjardins, Hill and Causten have done nothing to address the emissions impact on residents even when VIHA had a health study showing premature death. City has been no better. C – wind direction is important – only sites to be considered for Eastside should be on east side of peninsula. Residents downwind form Dockside Green get emission odours – and see plume daily. Usually white (good) but not always. C – insulted when hear that this project will take residents into 21 Century thinking whereas City does not even accept 1975 planning principles. C – saw on news people from Dockside Green saying the system there works well. CRD really messed up – left everything to staff. New initiative – process good Technical info needs to be made simple. Will you be publishing? Need more than May 30/31 events – get free space in TC to publish technical information. C – Parks – can implement underground – Don’t need to fear the future – hopeful. C – There is a segment of population/scientific community who feel current system is best. But mandated land based system – prevailing winds from SW and SSW. Traditionally Victoria takes brunt – don’t do that anymore. Go alone if others who are parasitic C – 100% of Oak Bay sewage goes to Clover Point. Oak Bay is NOT regionally responsive. If Eastside goes south – have options ready. 8. Adjournment 9:05 pm &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& EastSide Sewage Treatment meetings, VicPD Invitatrion and JBNA May Directors Report jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: EastSide Sewage Treatment meetings, VicPD Invitatrion and JBNA May Directors Report Date: Sat, 16 May 2015 07:03:10 -0700 EastSide Sewage Treatment Consultation: 2 Siting Workshops Most of the workshop will take place between 10-2pm, the rest will be open house format. Stay all day and get lots out of it, or go mid-afternoon and get general info. May 30, 10am-4pm Cadboro Commons Dining Room, University of Victoria May 31, 10am-4pm Victoria, Salon A – The Victoria Conference Centre _________________________________________ VICTORIA POLICE DEPARTMENT INVITATION What: VicPD’s official launch of the VicPD Community Ambassador and 2015 Summer Action Plan When: 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, May 27th Where: Front Lawn, Fairmont Empress Hotel, 721 Government Street. Alternate Location in case of Inclement Weather: Palm Court in the Crystal Ballroom, Fairmont Empress Hotel, 721 Government Street. ______________________________________ JBNA Directors’ Report: May 13th, 2015 JBNA Board of Directors: At the April AGM Britta Gundersen-Bryden joined the Board as Vice-Chair. Continuing Board members include : Chair, Marg Gardiner; Treasurer, Wayne Shillington; Secretary, Laura Neil; CALUC Chair, Tom Coyle; Membership, Bob Vander Steen, and Past-Chair, Tim VanAlstine. Cruise-ships: Most ships in port to date have been repositioning ships. The Alaska season will be in a regular pattern by the end of May. The increase to 229 ships includes 25 more evening ship-calls. Evening ships berth for shorter periods, with one ship routinely berthing for only 4.5 hours. Average passenger time ashore falls slightly this year. Although ships arriving before 6 pm will be in port for about 12 minutes longer, more ships will see an average decrease of over 7 minutes, resulting in an overall average decrease of 2%. Only a few buses built since 2000 have been introduced. GVHA has made no commitment to phase-out the 1983/84 buses. JBNA is monitoring SO2 levels. To date, westerly winds have taking the plume off-monitor. City of Victoria: Parks and Greenspaces: Fisherman’s Wharf Park: WP – Parks staff have readied the herb garden in the south east at Fisherman’s Park for residents. Sage, oregano, mint, thyme, rosemary and chives are ready to be snipped. Chokeberries, currents and huckleberries will bear fruit come summer. CoV Bike stand @ 5-corners and CPR building: The first City of Victoria bike lop-stands near JB village centre have been installed. And, the triangular bike stand near on Belleville, near CPR bldg has been removed has been replaced with less obtrusive hoop stands. Beacon Hill Park “Moss Art” The “moss maiden” head and hand continue to await the torso. Her clay materials have arrived and work should begin soon. Look for her west of the bandstand. Events in and around: James Bay Market: Season began May 2nd, corner of Superior and Menzies. Development Proposals: Ogden Point: GVHA has contracted Stantec to forward development of the OP MasterPlan. Capital Park: The Development Proposal Application for Phase 1 nears completion; the Jawl/CONCERT consortium will present detailed plans at the June 10th JBNA meeting, along with plans to relocate 2 of the heritage houses. Crystal Court: Concert developments will soon be submitting an application for the redevelopment of the site. The new structure will be a seniors complex with restaurant/retail on the lower level. The proposal will be featured at either the June 10th or the July 8th JBNA meeting. 135 Medana Alteration Permit application: The City has received a proposal for a deck to be installed at 135 Medana. Proposals: Coming someday: Ogden Point Coming soon: Crystal Court 701 Belleville In City process: 121 Menzies, 135 Medana, The “O” liquor licence, 89 Dallas (Helijet) (Note: Contact City Planning @ 250-361-0523 for details) &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Meeting – tomorrow, Wednesday – Eastside Sewage is an agenda item jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: Meeting – tomorrow, Wednesday – Eastside Sewage is an agenda item Date: Tue, 12 May 2015 16:31:14 -0700 The full agenda is at https://jbna.org/agenda.pdf but note item 7 – ETA 7:45 Sewage Treatment Update Eastside Public Advisory Committee The Eastside Select committee today issued a media release listing “technically feasible sites” capable of housing a wastewater treatment facility. Within James Bay the sites listed are: Beacon Hill Park Holland Point Ogden Point Coast Guard Station The media release can be found at: http://bit.ly/1RBpgay – there is a link to the map showing proposed sites within the document. &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& May Agenda & April Minutes jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: May Agenda & April Minutes Date: Thu, 30 Apr 2015 18:11:17 -0700 JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION Monthly Meeting Agenda 7:00pm – 9:00pm Wednesday, May 13th, 2015 James Bay New Horizons – 234 Menzies St Agenda 1. Welcome & Announcements 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Correspondence/Announcements • Circulating Correspondence file 4. Minutes of April 8th meeting 5. Helijet Application, Liquor Primary License, 79 Dallas Rd, Ogden Point Bert Hick, Rising Tide Consultants Stephen Baxter, Helijet 6. Community Safety: beginning of a discussion “panhandling and loitering in James Bay” Wayne Shillington, JBNA 7. Sewage Treatment Update Eastside Public Advisory Committee (person presenting TBA) 8. Community Concerns (time permitting) FM headphones may be available at the meeting for those with hearing loss. JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION MINUTES General Meeting April 8th, 2015 1. Welcome: 7:05 pm (80 in attendance) Tom Coyle: Chair, Laura Neil recorded minutes City of Victoria, Liaison, Margaret Lucas 2. Agenda: m/s/c 3. Minutes of March 11th, 2015 Approved m/s/c 4. Correspondence – accepted as circulated m/s/c 5. Development: GVHA’s Fisherman’s Wharf Floating Washrooms: Mike Graham, Chief Technical Officer, GVHA The consultation on this proposal is a requirement under the GVHA-JBNA MOU regarding the development of Fisherman’s Wharf. A second floating washroom will be added adjacent to the existing washrooms at Fisherman Wharf. The washrooms are located on the wharf, in front of the Harbour Master office. Q/A: C – In favour of additional washroom facilities – need to be doubled not replaced. A – This is doubling the capacity C – Good that the washrooms will be doubled. Thank you again for coming Q – Are there facilities for wheelchair access? A – Yes Q – What will be the hours of access? A – Open throughout year – in winter can be closed – is on a demand basis – have flexibility to open as needed. 6. Development Re-zoning: 121 Menzies from 7 to 13 units Charles Miller, Duncan Valley Designs, presenter Richard Skene, Architectural Securities Inc, Gordon Osborne, Owner John Ivision, Structural Eng Alex Apotoli, P. Eng A multi-unit apt since 1992, density from 7 units to 13. Building build in 1906, single family R2 zoning, owed by Mr. Osborne since 1992. Currently zoned for 7 suites, was over the current R2 zoning but City rezoned to permit 7 LHK suites in 1992. Renovated the house and raised 2 ft. for legal basement. Extensive restoration of exterior and interior in 1992. Likely 7 units in place when inspected. However, additional suites constructed around same time: Unauthorized construction. Now requesting modified zoning for 12 suite and 1 garden suite, with 4 additional suite in basement, 1 addition al suite on main floor, and the garden suite – garage conversion. Only 1 parking spot for building – garden suite tenant has this spot. Only 2 other people in apt who own cars of 13 suites. Building has secure bike location. Q/A: Q – Superior St resident who is also a landlord – questions regarding permits, was plumping done with professionals, electricians etc. A – Yes for original 7 suites, not conforming for additional suites that’s why requesting rezoning. Had over-built (pipes etc) in 1992 so plumbing conformed to code. Q – Superior Cont’d – As a landlord, one of the houses I manage has a larger footprint than the whole Menzies property and would not consider 13 units for it. This proposal is not supportable. C – Pilot St resident – I’ve gone through the rezoning process, followed what was required. You are asking the community to support the rezoning. For 22 years you have benefited from 5 illegal suites and you’re asking for forgiveness because you are now making it right. This is not acceptable, the building should be reverted back to the 7 suites that were allowed by the city in 1992. These actions are not acceptable. C – Simcoe resident – support affordable housing, states tenants are safe C – Montreal St resident – do I as a single dwelling owner get to do this? Not likely. You’ve done this before – this is not supportable. C – San Jose resident – walks past building, likes it, collecting of rain water, clean, no garbage, building a good citizen for street. Q – Menzie St resident – going through process today are you up to today’s standards? You state you can’t meet, are you asking for relax of requirements? A – Want to present an alternate process for today’s standards Q – Kingston St – if city doesn’t approve request does the building revert back to 7 units? A – Reserves right to answer at this time – wants to bring back into standards. C – You might be a good landlord and your tenants might be good; but the zoning stays with the building and this is too much for this site. C – Residents may be good citizens, that’s all laudable, but 22 years of benefit by the owner, don’t know that the owner has been a good citizen. A – Not here to condone Mr Osborne’s conduct, states he was heavily fined by hydro, here trying to rectify situations Q – What was the original parking requirement for the 7 units? A – 7 units required 3 parking stalls, currently only 1 parking stall for the Q – Parking requirement in 1992 was 3 – was garage used as a garage A – Garage was used as a garage prior to conversion in 1992. C – So from the beginning you never intended to comply with parking. The garden unit should revert to parking as additional parking is needed.. C – Resident – St James St project was turned down due to parking, I don’t believe that a stall is always needed for every resident; but more is needed than being proposed. With the St James proposal the City insisted on a car share requirement, if the City unwisely proceeds with this proposal, there should be a requirement for a couple of car shares spots right there. C – Have major concern for this application as will open floodgates, can’t support this. C – Why is it not possible to consider something less than 13 units? A – Want to legalize those existing since 1992 Q – Is there egress for all existing suites? A – All suites have egress C – Wrong approach taken, my concern what happens when property is sold, what if the next owner isn’t as responsible as the current? A – Can’t answer at this time until know what city will do? C – The rezoning application should be looked at as though the property was Greenfield. If that were the case, what would be permitted. Q – What about water, plumbing? A – Already up to code for 13 suites since 1992. C – For the 7 units was there an occupancy inspection? A – Yes, all plumbing was roughed in in 1992, and electrical but due to finances the 6 extras suites weren’t done. A – Was approved for occupancy in 1992. C – Very concerned about the precedence this will set and subsequent owners, put city and this community in a very difficult situation. Q – Was building up to code in 1992? A – Yes Q – What have you done since then? Current codes A – Met and have gone beyond what is required as of 2012, need to find out from city what can and can’t be relaxed. Q – Are they up to 2012 codes? A – Have just touched surface of 2012 codes and are reviewing with city. C – Medana St res – until a week ago didn’t know how many people lived in building – support. 7. Re-zoning and Set-Back Variance: 520 Niagara (Cathedral School) Murray Miller, Heritage Planner, City of Victoria Rezoning is further to City’s proposal as presented in January. Owner (diocese) requested relaxation of the rear set back from current to 4 meters. Other changes include relaxation of parking requirement. City looked at other approved parking ratios in neighbourhood. Asks for reduction from Schedule C of 1.4/unit to .75/unit if less than 70m2 and 1 if > 70m2. Q/A: Q – Niagara neighbour. City proposal from January to now is a change. The proposal doesn’t preserve the building, well outside the boundaries of what should be allowed. Doesn’t have a lot of heritage value. To survive it would require extensive seismic upgrades. Strongly opposed to what is being proposed. Very disappointed with proposal, reducing setbacks, etc. A – Site can accommodate change, a development that complies with the zoning, can rehabilitate the building, the existing building gets added to. C – This is something that as neighbours we don’t want to see. C – set back, relax, height relax, front, side, middle that can’t be relaxed by info provided by city and developer. Where is the duplex and the 7 new units the developer is demanding? A – This applications is for creating the setting the conditions for a development proposal to come forward. What is being displaced on the screen isn’t the development proposal. C – If the relaxation occurs, MLS ad two lots zoned and bonus density to be put into heritage building, includes 7 more units. This will all occur with relaxation – very much opposed. A – No relaxation of height, council will reconsider the zoning by-law as it has been drafted based on the principles discussed here tonight C – Document 26 of FOI all heritage will be subject to relaxation zoning. C – Dallas resident – Am disappointed in the Diocese which received the land as a gift – read St Mathew 21:12 (Jesus at the Temple – moneychangers). C – Michigan resident – Doesn’t matter of how building was acquired, either it’s bulldozed or something creative is done and building is preserved. Believes that preserving the structure with a creative addition should be encouraged. Q – MNG – The angst and displeasure has been exacerbated by the MLS listing which is unfortunate. Is City now expected a heritage alteration permit or development permit? A – Not sure, but reasonable to assume it will be a heritage alteration permit Q – Trees on photo appear to be on the 520 property – would likely be destroyed? A – Won’t know until see proposal. C – A lot of what we are seeing is the unknown of what will be proposed – and what will not be known in advance of the public hearing, JBNA wants a requirement that any development propsal go through a CALUC process so if it needs to be tweaked can be done so that everyone can live with, will offer an op for neighbours to see what is being done – asking again that it occur – has been told won’t happen unless staff make a recommendation to council for community consultation. Council and City states the need for “engagement” and community input – this is a time that neighbours should be consulted. It could be that a development will not be opposed, Q – Simcoe resident– when was build and what is back-story? A – 1939 Q – When designated heritage A – Early 2000’s – but Is not designated is on registered Q – Will rezoning mean building will be preserved? A – can be demolished – Owner has applied for demolition. If only registered is not protected legally. City council asked staff if building had significant heritage value. Protection order was put in place, 5 month protection was with agreement with owner, owner could demolish tomorrow, talking about a rezoning, will deal with land use, create conditions for future development C – Medana resident – very very concerned about what is happening and lack of neighbours to have input in the process through the CALUC as the city is taking on the rezoning, not the owner, Mayor said at a council meeting that she supported the CALUC process yet this isn’t being done. C – City staff (not meaning Murray) have stated that there will be CALUC process as a letter will be sent inviting comments. BUT a letter is NOT the CALUC process, but a way of skirting around it. Again ask that any Heritage Alteration permit application or Development Permit application be required to come through the full CALUC process. Watched the video of the resident/Mayor exchange and not sure that they understood each other as the staff claim of a letter being a satisfactory CALUC process muddies the issues. C – Clarence Res – If city is allowed to go through the process this can be approved, we as neighbours will be at the whim of whatever developer who comes in due to the relaxation being proposed. 8. Community Safety: Panhandling & Loitering in James Bay Wayne Shillington, JBNA – Postponed due to time. 9. Community Concerns: No time 10. Adjournment 9pm &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Eastside Committee: Sewage treatment options – consultation jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: Eastside Committee: Sewage treatment options – consultation Date: Fri, 24 Apr 2015 13:31:38 -0700 TWO OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN AND COMMENT ON SEWAGE TREATMENT OPTIONS The CRD has formed the Eastside Select Committee with elected representatives from Oak Bay, Saanich and Victoria to engage with their communities and develop wastewater treatment options that address their priorities. There will be open sessions in the weeks ahead. ______________________________________ The first Eastside Public Briefing and Dialogue will be held next week: 7:00pm, Wednesday, April 29 Royal BC Museum On April 29th, 2015 the Eastside Select Committee will: • share the process for public input over the coming three months • answer questions on what has changed; and • learn more about public priorities for sewage and wastewater treatment. For more information about the process please visit: www.crd.bc.ca/eastside or email: eastside@crd.bc.ca ______________________________________ JBNA May 13 General Meeting Residents of James Bay, particularly those unable to attend next week’s event, are invited to the JBNA General Meeting where the Eastside staff/representatives will provide similar information. Meeting begins at 7pm. Eastside presentation is third item on the agenda. Wednesday, May 13 234 Menzies (New Horizons building) &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& JBNA APRIL DIRECTORS REPORT jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: JBNA APRIL DIRECTORS REPORT Date: Sat, 11 Apr 2015 10:19:01 -0700 JBNA Directors’ Report: April 8th, 2015 JBNA Board of Directors: City of Victoria: Camping in Parks: City Council is considering a report that suggests amending the Parks Regulation Bylaw to define particular areas for sheltering (camping). Other recommendations concern funding for bylaws and parks staff and clean-up. Currently camping restrictions apply to “environmentally sensitive” areas, some of which are in Beacon Hill Park, Moss Rocks, Franklin Green, Pioneer, and Victoria Youth Park. Some Councilors favoured imposing of restrictions on specific parks, namely Cridge, Haegert, Kings, Arbutus, while others suggested that such restrictions would merely pass the issues on to others and hence more requests would be expected from other neighbourhoods. The highest camping use appears to be at Beacon Hill Park and Topaz Park. Parks and Greenspaces: Beacon Hill Park “Moss Art” The “moss maiden” head and hand continue to await the torso. Look for the blue tarp along the pathway on the west side of the park, near Douglas and Avalon. Tree removals: 110 and 160 Government Street – Vine Maples, severe decline/dead. 401 Government Street – Purple Leaf Plum – 42 cm dbh, has severe decay in the root crown caused by Ganoderma, a wood decay pathogen. This tree requires removal. Stump grinding and replacement tree planting is expected for the fall and winter of 2015/16. 300 Michigan – the arborist report indicated that the two Red Maples on the Oswego frontage had poor structure due to historical utility pruning and recommended two trees removal. Two replacement trees will be replanted at the developer’s cost following construction. The Cherry tree and Birch tree on the Michigan frontage are to be retained and protected during construction. Events in and around: James Bay Market: Season begins May 2nd, corner of Superior and Menzies. Victoria Earth Walk for Peace and the Planet – Saturday, April 25th: The walk will gather at the BC Legislature lawn at 11 am and proceed through Downtown Victoria to Centennial Square, for speakers, live music and festivities. You can learn more about the event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/911871192168440/. Celebrate “biodivercity” and the best marine environment in urban Canada: The history of the Victoria Harbour Migratory Bird Sanctuary will be presented by Jacques Sirois, Friends of Victoria Harbour Migratory Bird Sanctuary, Gorge Waterway Initiative meeting, 7:30pm Wed. April 29, Burnside Gorge Centre, 471 Cecelia Rd. Development Proposals: Ogden Point: GVHA has contracted Stantec to forward the development of the Ogden Point MasterPlan. Community consultation is expected to proceed soon. Capital Park: The Development Proposal Application for Phase 1 nears completion; the Jawl/CONCERT consortium will present detailed plans in the next few weeks. Proposals: Coming soon: Ogden Point, Crystal Court 701 Belleville: In City process: 520 Niagara, 121 Menzies (Note: Contact City Planning @ 250-361-0523 for details) &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& April 8 JBNA AGM (6pm) followed by General Meeting (7pm) Agenda jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: April 8 JBNA AGM (6pm) followed by General Meeting (7pm) Agenda Date: Sat, 28 Mar 2015 11:01:19 -0700 REMINDER: The JBNA AGM begins at 6 pm on April 8th, at New Horizons. Please bring your copies of AGM agenda and proposed Constitution/Bylaws information which you received in March. Constitution and bylaws are posted on www.jbna.org in case you have misplaced the information and/or e-mail from March 11/12. The regular JBNA General Meeting will follow the AGM. ________________________________________________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION Monthly Meeting Agenda 7:00pm – 9:00pm Wednesday, April 8th, 2015 James Bay New Horizons – 234 Menzies St Agenda 1. Welcome & Announcements 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Correspondence/Announcements · Circulating Correspondence file 4. Minutes of March 11th meeting 5. Development: GVHA Fisherman’s Wharf Floating Washrooms. Mike Graham, Chief Technical Officer, GVHA 6. Rezoning from 7 to 13 units: 121 Menzies Street Charles Miller, Duncan Valley Designs Richard Skene, Architectural Securities Inc, Gordon Osborne, Owner 7. Re-Zoning and set-back Variance: 520 Niagara (Cathedral School) Murray Miller, Heritage Planner, City of Victoria 8. Community Safety: beginning of a discussion (time Permitting) “panhandling and loitering in James Bay” Wayne Shillington, JBNA 9. Community Concerns (time permitting) FM headphones may be available at the meeting for those with hearing loss. ____________________________________________________________________________________________ NOTES: 1 – If you wish to have something considered for the agenda, the cutoff date is 3 weeks prior to the regular monthly meeting (held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month). 2 – JBNA, as a Society, is independent of James Bay New Horizons Society. James Bay New Horizons Society is responsible for operations, including rentals, of 234 Menzies. ____________________________________________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION MINUTES General Meeting March 11th, 2015. 1. Welcome: 7:05 pm (78 in attendance) Tom Coyle: Chair, Laura Neil recorded minutes 2. Agenda (amended): m/s/c as amended Amendments: Item 7: Neighbourhood Voice – postponed. Library and Capital Park to be substituted – time permitting 3. Minutes of February 11th, 2015 Approved m/s/c 4. Correspondence – accepted as circulated m/s/c Announcements: • Ben Isitt’s e-mail in correspondence: Re City’s 2015 Budget and 2015-17 strategy. • GVHA’s Ogden Point MasterPlan starting – again – this effort started in 2010 with CH2M. • Capital Park public Hearing at Council March 12th • 520 Niagara; Cathedral School – revisit; rejection of request for Procedural Requirement • Reminder of AGM April 8th meeting 6pm 5. Going Forward: Mayor Lisa Helps Mayor and Council commit to engaging neighbourhoods for next 4 years and to focus on: Making Victoria more affordable; Prosperity; Housing task force; Economic task force; Review of affordable housing; Small business needs to make viable. Residents are invited to Mayor’s drop in sessions – 2 hour group discussions, usually 11am to 1pm. (Check web-site for dates/times) Q/A: C – issues for middle class, homeless, real estate cost, infill housing – together the bottom line is finances. Need to be realistic about approach to these challenging issues. A – development industry has a role in solving affordable housing to take action C – BC Cruise rep: –collaborative actions will get ears to respond to traffic; A – Agrees, improvement on traffic fleet, improve transportation options not a two way street; industry guarantees that by 2016 the SO2 to be solved. Will be meeting with cruise industry in Seattle in April. C – sidewalks, Bellville terminal update please A – time coordinating with Prov govt to be addressed by 2017, needs to be moved up need to let Mayor and council know. C – Ogden Point master plan – task force and committee are difference only in spelling – need to update website from 2009 – if Johnson bridge ask for more money tell them NO – Tourism no business in off season. Q – Economic development: hasn’t person left? A – person has left: will be creating a task force to determine approach Q – sewage: where is it at? A – task force to start by March 18. Will give insight to a better location and outreach to community. Aiming to approve plan by June 2015. Need to identify sites, resource recovery plants, and get community OK where sites proposed if hit targets will meet funding commitments of March 2016. C – positive comments empowering community – wants an area representative rather than an appointed Councillor liaison. A – Greatest Greater Victoria conversation project – get involved in this process – this is the place to make this desire clear – amalgamation – please join this. C – leading edge city and affordability – objectives may conflict. What has come of the recommendations of the 2007 walk study? The new 40k speed limit what has happened to feeder streets only? A – need feedback on response from planners to determine if 40k will be expanded as currently a pilot project. Will look into the status of the Pedestrian Plan. C – regarding Councillor representation, a ward system could be considered regardless of success of Amalgamation initiative. There are 2 upcoming opportunities to hear discussion. (1) “The Victoria Salon” debate on Tuesday, March 24 from 7-9pm, Young Auditorium, Camosun. (2) Conversation Event with Mike Harcourt, April 21, 5 pm, Victoria Conference Centre. C – need to get beyond GVHA – need to reach to Tourism Victoria about walking efforts to walkability of JB and city. Tourism Victopria has not responded to JBNA outreach. Q – is tertiary treatment for sewage treatment being considered? A – want best system for long term. Need to look at high level treatment, cost efficiency, and long term service. Q – Bellville St what is Fed Govt Dept of Transport involvement has the city tried to contact? A – Federal Govt divested Belleville St property in 2002 to Prov of BC and owned by MOT, Todd Stone, trying to build a good relationship with prov and revitalization of the Bellville and inner harbour – try to time with phase 1 improvements with terminal and docks, phase 2 improvement to public realm, and phase 3 new terminal building 6. Sense of Place: Architecture of James Bay Lindsay McCunn, Doctoral Candidate, Psychology, UVic Lindsay distributed a survey to everyone assembled. The survey included a UVic consent form and a page of questions for each of 3 photos. , look at pictures and state out feel by answering 12 simple questions. 2nd point of survey different architectural features make you feel. 3rd Please describe how in navigational terms would you reach the place in the photo to your home. The questionnaires will provided data for Lindsay’s PhD work. She will provide the survey results to JBNA in several months time. 7. JB Library Branch: City Strategic Plan + March 12 Capital Park Public Hearing: Marg gave the presentation intended for City Council on March 12. She detailed the consultation to date for Capital Park and the desire for a JB Library/multi-use facility. The GVPL has requested Capital and Operating funding from the City. As of 2017 going forward, the tax revenues form Capital Park will be substantial and only a portion of the taxes would be needed to fund the library. Q/A: Q – who other than city to write about library who to write? A – complete City survey in addition to writing to Council Q – what is meant by Greater Victoria Public Library A – There are 10 branches and not all CRD municipalities are partnered in the GVPL. 4 branches are in Saanich, one in Oak Bay, one in Langford and the main branch in Victoria. 8. Community Concerns Shirley Embra &Lucia Ribeiro, James Bay residents, are promoting the Surfrider Cigarette Butt containers that can be purchased by merchants or others to be attached to poles or structures. Shirley and Lucia will monitor and empty the containers. One has been installed outside New Horizons. GVHA has installed and maintains units at Fisherman’s Wharf and Ogden Point. 9. Adjournment 8:55 pm &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& Director’s report jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: Director’s report Date: Thu, 12 Mar 2015 06:35:45 -0700 JBNA Directors’ Report: March 11th, 2015 JBNA Board of Directors: The JBNA AGM will be held on April 8th, prior to the usual General Meeting. In addition to the election of 3 Board members, the Board is recommending an omnibus re-write of the Bylaws to bring consistency in language and changes in Board structure. Voting members will receive notification of the proposed re-write within the next few days. Victorian Analysis City Hall meetings can be difficult to follow, and understand. Jaclyn Casler, an enterprising resident, has created a web-site which reports on City Hall meetings in a concise and timely manner. Rather than reviewing the many City documents which may be of interest, residents may scan the web-page for updates on topics of interest to them. Jaclyn also provides direct links to many presentations and documents. An easy read, great insight: http://victoriananalysis.ca/ City of Victoria: City Strategic Plan: 2015-2018 The City of Victoria is currently consulting residents on the 2015-2018 Strategic Plan and the 2015 Budget. The plan will shape how the City spends more than $800-million over the next four years. Resident comments and/or input on transportation, housing, park systems and taxes are being sought. A Town Hall meeting will be held on Monday March 23 at 7:00 pm at Victoria City Hall. This is your chance to share your priorities directly with City Council.
 Input can also be provided online at www.Victoria.ca/budget. The survey closes on March 29th. CoV Bike stand @ 5-corners: The first City of Victoria bike stand near JB village centre may be installed soon. (Yes, we have heard this for several months!) Parks and Greenspaces: Beacon Hill Park “Moss Art” The “moss maiden” head and hand are now polished, in place, and ready to receive the addition of the wire torso. Walk by weekly to see the progress. A fun project. Look for the blue tarp along the pathway on the west side of the park, near Douglas and Avalon. Cruise-Ship Impacts: World Monument Fund: Reports concerning the impacts of cruise-tourism have been posted on the JBNA web-site (www.jbna.org): 1- Harbouring Tourism: Cruise Ships in Historic Port Communities – The World Monuments Fund International Symposium, and 2- Study on the Economic Impact or Large Cruise Ships at Venice. Development Proposals: 520 Niagara: Cathedral School: Negotiations continue between City Planning staff and the Diocese. The City planner will come to the April 8 JBNA General Meeting because a variance to the January rezoning is being sought. Ogden Point: GVHA has contracted Stantec to carry out a consultation project to forward the development of the Ogden Point MasterPlan. (Recall that CH2M was contracted to restart the MasterPlan process in 2010) Proposals: Coming soon: Ogden Point, Crystal Court 701 Belleville, and 121 Menzies In City process: 520 Niagara, Capital Park (Note: Contact City Planning @ 250-361-0523 for details) &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& JBNA March 11 Meeting Agenda with Lisa Helps; Notice of research study, and; February Meeting minutes jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: JBNA March 11 Meeting Agenda with Lisa Helps; Notice of research study, and; February Meeting minutes Date: Tue, 3 Mar 2015 18:40:56 -0800 JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION Monthly Meeting Agenda 7:00pm – 9:00pm Wednesday, March 11th, 2015 James Bay New Horizons – 234 Menzies St Agenda 1. Welcome & Announcements Call for AGM 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Correspondence/Announcements · Circulating Correspondence file 4. Minutes of February 11th meeting 5. Going Forward Mayor of Victoria, Lisa Helps 6. Sense of Place: Architecture of James Bay Lindsay McCunn, Doctoral Candidate, Psychology, UVic 7. Neighbourhood Voice within Municipality structures (TBA) 8. Community Concerns Shirley Embra &Lucia Ribeiro, Surfrider Foundation: Cigarette butts FM headphones may be available at the meeting for those with hearing loss. _____________________________________________________________ “Notice of Research Study: The research study “A Real-World Investigation of a Proposed Conceptual Framework of Sense of Place” will be taking place during the JBNA meeting on Wednesday, March 11, 2015. The lead investigator is Lindsay J. McCunn, a doctoral candidate in the department of psychology at the University of Victoria. She is completing her PhD by testing whether spatial navigational strategies, as well as particular imageable architectural features, influence residents’ levels of ‘sense of place’ for urban neighbourhoods. The study will ask meeting attendees to look at photographs taken of various places in the James Bay neighbourhood. For every photo, participants will be asked to answer some questions on paper. Questions will be in the form of scales, multiple choice, and open-ended response (i.e., participants will have the opportunity to write down additional information about what they think and feel about each photograph). Please consider attending the meeting if you are willing to participate in this study. It will take between 20 and 40 minutes of time. __________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION MINUTES General Meeting February 11th, 2015. 1. Welcome: 7:05 pm (49 in attendance) Marg Gardiner: Chair, Laura Neil recorded minutes Announcements: AGM April 8th AGM start at 6:00 or 6:15 pm, before General Meeting. Correspondence file: ~ Plant Sale Swan Lake April 25th 7 26th ~ Greatest Victoria Conversation – February 24th ~ Bob Vander Steen’s report on 2014 SO2 measures (on-line) ~ Chris Doyle recognised Kurt Cehak, a long time member for over 20 years who has celebrated his 90th birthday. Kurt was welcomed with applause. 2. Agenda (amended): m/s/c as amended Amendments: Item 4 Minutes should refer to January 2015 – not November 2014 Item 6/7 addition – a request by Lindsay McCunn 3. Minutes of January 14th, 2015 Approved m/s/c 4. Correspondence – accepted as circulated m/s/c 5. CALUC: 520 Niagara rezoning proposal – Cathedral School On January 29th, the City application for a rezoning was considered at Planning and Land Use Committee (PLUC). During meeting, Councilor Isitt asked if there would be an opportunity for resident review/input once a development proposed, be it a Development Permit or a Heritage Alteration application. Staff responded that it would go to CALUC and neighbours would have an opportunity to comment. JBNA sought clarification since experience suggests that the response MEANT that a notice would be sent to JBNA and to neighbours for public hearings without going through the CALUC process with the usual notifications and CALUC meeting. NOTE: STAFF RESPONSE WAS NEGATIVE. At the January CALUC meeting, it was requested that the City ensure that there will be a full CALUC process when a proposal is submitted. 6. James Bay Councillor Liaison: Councilor Margaret Lucas, newly appointed Councilor liaison to James Bay introduced herself, providing her background and Councilor assignments. Q/A: Q – Welcome to JB, delighted you have been selected the City Liaison to JB 7. Potential study of James Bay resident perceptions: “Sense of Place” Lindsay McCunn spoke briefly about her PhD research. When Lindsay lived in James Bay she attended JBNA meetings and used her observations in her research for her Masters degree and wishes to do a study involving James Bay residents and “Sense of Place”. Will be conducting an Environmental psychological study of neighbourhood. 8. Capital Park: An Update Rob Jawl for Jawl properties & Concert properties Jawl/Concert representatives present: Ken Bogress (Concert, Senior VP Development), Dean Johnson (Concert,Development Manager), & Max Webster (Jawl properties) Rob Jawl provided an update of plans for Capital Park focusing on design changes etc. Public hearings for development will take place on March 12th at City Hall. Development permit applications for the 1st phase of work will go to City within the next 30 days, will be 4 to 6 months before approval. Earliest date of work anticipated to start on property will take place by July or August 2015. Phase 1 completion 2017; Phase 2, 2019; Phase 3, 2020 Q/A: Q – Michigan St resident: Fantastic project, except doesn’t feel comfortable with building height, feels good with 3 stories, office buildings from 4 to 5 stories, building D too high. Is abrupt, a wall facing homes on Michigan. A – Haven’t done all the refinements for building D or others along Menzies. 5 stories is the height maximum of the Victoria Accord, but not on Michigan St. Was some consensus with City for central plaza. The condominium building is angled BACK FROM Michigan St to minimize impact to houses on Michigan and will not have any shadowing on the homes. Q – Michigan resident: A number of residents of Michigan will make presentation at public hearing. Has issue with the public square, animation, a performance square, we reside 50 feet away. If public usage, would people be able to camp overnight, as Centennial Square A – Have statutory right of way with City which will not allow for overnight camping. Will have control of property and will ensure appropriate use. View the space for wide range of use, doesn’t anticipate rock concert size use. Will have control of the property. Q – will there be a bar or pub A – will have to be sensitive to area and is thought to be an unlikely use. Q – resident buildings will there be access to top of buildings for green space. A – at this time some discussions but premature Q – pools depths A – very swallow Q – Govt Res: wants heritage homes to be placed on Menzies, 5 storeys doesn’t cut it. Q – say a little more about cladding of office buildings A – height performance, triple glazed, mat terracotta, aluminum windows Q – cladding on Michigan St A – natural brick/wood, developed building guidelines to complement buildings on Michigan Q – access on Superior for office – any more discussion with City for access egress? Do you need a dedicated lane for delivery access? A – have done an extensive study, not significant with the current number of parking stalls in use. Will widen for entry and exit to avoid stacking of vehicles on Govt and seamless movement of vehicles that will not be accessing underground parking. Q – Who will clean the public right-of-way? A – will be responsibility of the owners of the site, documents pertaining to the public access are available at City hall Q – Pendray resident: Interested in the heritage buidlings. A – Resited 3 heritage buildings will house 13 rentals, and all 5 heritage buildings will retain their heritage designation. Q – Will bike parking will be underground and above ground? A – yes, will exceed City requirements, high LEED Platinum bldg, class 1 and class 2 bike storage. Shower & change rooms available Q – The 5 storey building should shelter much of the noise from the public square. A – yes Q – will there be casual seating surrounding water feature. A – yes, there will be seating that will do double duty, seating and barrier to prevent people from falling in to water feature. C – Library, is not a sure thing, City must provide/fund space, residents need to advocate. Q – Simcoe Res: like visual, will office buildings be all office, any residential? A – no residential use – due to security concerns and requirements of the govt. C – Montreal St: far better than the first attempt at the first Victoria Accord, public spaces great, lots of gains, love it, general public will get a lot out of it, however residents on Michigan will pay for it. Can something can be done with the 5 storey design so that it isn’t so stark for the residents in their 1 storey homes. Q – St Andrew: heating structure cladding on top of office buildings not attractive A – schematic showing the worst case scenario, will be as minimal as possible Q – what are the amenities A – central public plaza, public art, retail frontages, with a variety of use, fitness centre, in 1 office centre which can be used by public and govt workers Q – Several green squares on top of roofs of buildings – what is this? A – green roofs to be on office buildings, and green amenities on residential structures, showing potential for roof top gardens Q – How would programing happen in public plaza A – will be vetted by owners, community arts groups, nature of use and impact to office workers, will maintain a standard of use. Will be most sensitive to space and impact of surrounding area. Have a good understanding of the sensitivities of use. C – want library at the corner of Michigan and Menzies not Superior and Menzies A – there is a load-structure issue, the retail at Michigan and Menzies isn’t big enough for the load required for the library. C – City has some say in the location of the library A – yes Q – where service vehicles will be located? A – Access lane off Superior to the west of the Queen Printer building will be service access for government office at area 10. Resident services will be located underground. C – Michigan garden member: thank you for allowing to continue to use until relocation, hope that City and JBNA find a new location for the garden. C – putting in word for Library being at Michigan & Menzies for purpose of deliveries. Please to hear about public art, could it possibly be located at water features. C – Montreal res: – public art make it your choice not City Art committee. 9. Community Concerns Chair asked for a show of hands ~ number of people who frequent facilities at the Y? Several hands raised ~ number of people who frequent Crystal Pool? No hands were raised (Note: following meeting a resident mentioned that she and friends frequent the facilities at Grand Pacific). 10. Adjournment 8:50 pm &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& JBNA FEBRUARY DIRECTORS REPORT jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: JBNA FEBRUARY DIRECTORS REPORT Date: Sun, 15 Feb 2015 08:33:55 -0800 JBNA Directors’ Report: February 11th, 2015 JBNA Board of Directors: The JBNA AGM will be held on April 8th, prior to the usual General Meeting. Should you be interested in standing for election to the JBNA Board and wish to learn more about expectations, a member of the JBNA Board will be pleased to meet with you to discuss Board activities. A couple of current Board members will NOT be standing for re-election. City of Victoria: Council Neighbourhood Liaison: Councilor Margaret Lucas Mayor has been appointed Councilor Liaison for James Bay. Mayor Helps will be attending the JBNA March 11, 2015 meeting to meet JB residents and hear concerns and aspirations. CoV Bike stand @ 5-corners: The first City of Victoria bike stand near JB village centre may be installed soon. Parks and Greenspaces: Beacon Hill Park “Moss Art” City staff are creating a new art and plant feature on the western edge of the park near Douglas and Avalon Street. Proposed and designed by park gardener Dale Doebert, the large female figure made of sculpted concrete with a metal exoskeleton torso will recline permanently next to the stream, covered with growing moss. Cruise-Ship Impacts: 2014 Sulphur dioxide levels report: A report containing detailed wind analysis and sulphur dioxide levels for the 2014 cruise-season is now available at http://www.jbna.org/2014%20SO2%20Analysis.pdf. In addition to wind analysis and SO2 findings, Bob Vander Steen discusses upcoming regulatory changes and issues relating to exemptions to the regulations as the industry installs scrubbers over the next 3 years. Development Proposals: Concert Properties has purchased the Crystal Court property (701 Belleville). During a meeting with members of the JBNA Development Review Committee members, Concert representatives stated they intended to come forward with a proposal in a couple/few months time. They are focusing on a seniors’ residence. Proposals: Unknown: GVHA’s Ogden Point Coming in months ahead: Crystal Court – 701 Belleville In City process: 68 Gov’t/579 Niagara, 520 Niagara, Capital Park (Note: Contact City Planning @ 250-361-0523 for details) &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& JBNA February 11 agenda, announcements and Jan meeting minutes jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: JBNA February 11 agenda, announcements and Jan meeting minutes Date: Mon, 2 Feb 2015 22:19:12 -0800 ANNOUNCEMENTS: 1) Mayor Lisa Helps has rescheduled her JAMES BAY OPEN DISCUSSION. It will occur on March 11, at the JBNA 7 pm meeting 2) The JBNA AGM will be held on April 8, prior to the usual General Meeting. Should you be interested in standing for election to the JBNA Board and wish to learn more about expectations, a member of the JBNA Board will be pleased to meet with you to discuss Board activities. A couple of current Board members will NOT be standing for re-election. ________________________________________________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION Monthly Meeting Agenda 7:00pm – 9:00pm Wednesday, February 11th, 2015 James Bay New Horizons – 234 Menzies St Agenda 1. Welcome & Announcements 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Correspondence/Announcements · Circulating Correspondence file 4. Minutes of November 12th meeting 5. Update on 520 Niagara (Cathedral School) if available 6. James Bay Councilor Liaison Margaret Lucas 7. Capital Park: An Update Rob Jawl, Jawl properties & Concert properties 8. Community Concerns (time permitting) FM headphones may be available at the meeting for those with hearing loss. _____________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION MINUTES General Meeting January 14th, 2015. 1. Welcome: 7:05 pm Tom Coyle: Chair, Laura Neil recorded minutes (37 in attendance): The Chair recognised the passing of well-known community volunteers, Render Jones and Bel Paul in late 2014. A moment of silence followed. Chair informed that due to a pressing CRD meeting, Mayor Helps had cancelled her participation at the February JBNA meeting. However Capital Park will attending providing an progress update. 2. Agenda (amended): m/s/c 3. Minutes of December 10, 2014 Approved m/s/c 4. Correspondence – circulated 5. Event: June 7th Victoria Cycling grand Prix, Jon Walker, Race Organizer provided an overview of the event. Continues legacy since 1992, supported by DVBA, City of Victoria and Cycle Victoria. Spectator friendly, invitation only event, operated by the Russ Hay’s Racing Cycle Club Society. Race start in front of Legislature, race will be east on Belleville, south on Government, West on Superior and North on Menzies. 75 laps men’s race and 45 laps women’s race. Notices will be provided to local residents and will be advertised in Times Colonist. There will be no parking on Michigan as BC Transit will need to reroute, using Michigan. Comments/Q&A C – doesn’t support another venue in James Bay, City needs to think about the impact once again to James Bay residents there are many other sites that could be chosen.. C – Should be done at Yates and Pandora, think a bad idea C – Thank you for coming out, cycles 5 days week, thinks this is a good opportunity to educate public of safety in cycling C – 25 yr resident, loves events in city, supports, doesn’t agree James Bay is blocked, great idea, better course. Anything that encourages people to get out on bikes is a good thing Q – You mentioned youth and and 15O participants – are any from JB? A – Don’t think so. Q – are any from City of Victoria? A – is that important? R – yes, as these venues could be held in other parts of the GVA Q – Mentioned police assistance police, does event budget cover police costs A – has budget doesn’t know at this time if he will be billed Q – has city paid for policing other years, A – yes some years and covered as an in-kind in some years C – resident supports new venue, supports number of cruise ship visitors may have something to do besides buying t-shirts C – Suggest that JBNA request that City ensure that the event pays for police and other costs which the city may have paid in other years. 6. CALUC: 520 Niagara rezoning proposal – Cathedral School Murray Miller, Senior City Heritage Planner This is a city re-zoning application to increase the density on the property and is consistent with the City’s OPC. Murray provided information including a 3-page handout that included information on: ~ Background from Dec 30 2013 when the City received an application for demolition of the school followed later by an application for building permit for the construction of a single family dwelling ~ July 24 2014 Council passed a resolution ordering the temp protection of the school for 60 days and entered into discussions with the Anglican Diocese during which extensions were agreed upon. ~ As an incentive to protect the structure and register it as a heritage property a density increase through rezoning is being proposed. The rezoning is to be respectful of the city’s OCP which permits a fsr ration of 1:1 while the current zoning permits 0.5:1. ~ proposal is consistent with the JB Neighbourhood Plan vis a vis heritage preservation ~ the Character-Defining Elements of the property The specific rezoning proposal is meant to promote the continued life of the heritage structures through land use controls such as density, mixed uses and creative parking provision solutions. City’s rational to rezone is to create density conditions that are attractive to a developer who would be required to conserve and adapt the building while maintaining the visibility of the west and south portions of the building and property Note: handout to be attached to minutes which will be circulated at February JBNA meeting. Q/A: Notes: 1) With the exception of JBNA DRC members, all but two of the speakers reside on Niagara, Medana or Clarence. 2) MG=Marg Gardiner, TC=Tom Coyle Q – The site specific rezoning hasn’t been developed as yet? A – correct Q – this isn’t the standard application of re-zoning. Why is City initiating? A – City is not make application on behalf of the owner. Rather, City is trying to create an incentive for the owner to NOT demolish the building. This is a concept based on the OCP, balancing the heritage and surrounding residences and will it be supported in principal Q – What is in the mind of the owner? A – The owner wants to demolish the property, wants to get the maximum value out of the property. Q – will there be a density bonus associated with the proposal A – the incentive to NOT demolish the structure is the bonus for the community. C/Q – Want to know what the owner is intending before any rezoning is approved. Why is city wanting to make it easier for the developer? A – Not making it any easier for owner will still have to go through development application Q – MG – At the December DRC, committee had requested that the City ensure that the proposal come back to the community once a development proposal is forwarded for a CALUC-like review. Given statements made by residents, there is an interest by nearby residents to be kept apprised of the changes to the file – will City commit to informing residents who provide e-mail addresses of changes/events relating to the proposal? A – Staff have discussed items that came out of DRC mtg with JBNA. If the existing zone is looked at as the base line, the change would be an incentive. Any further changes would have to go back to JBNA (CALUC). Yes, will send out notices to those who have indicated they want to have updates. C – the bylaw wording should have been presented tonight so that we would know precisely what is being proposed. Q – if school demolished what could be built now under existing zoning? A – one duplex and 1 single residence with suite Q – if zoning goes through, would the developer have to come back to JBNA if building is demolished after rezoning A – Bonus density (incentive) would only apply if building remains. Q – if there is a rezoning, will city guaranteed come here first as a CALUC process if there are any variances proposed? A – there is no requirement now but understand the point C/Q – thanks city for coming, the building is worth keeping and appreciates the creativity being proposed by the city. Are there any examples where this has been done elsewhere in the city? A – hesitant to reference any other as it is site specific and unique, needs to think carefully before providing any examples. Believes there are some opportunities here. Once there are conditions, it is up to developer to come up with some ideas. Because there was a desire to keep the heritage property without plans for its replacement, this application was put on hold. Q – delay of 5 months, when does it expire? A – March 15th Q – If City/Diocese don’t come to a agreement, can owner demolish? A – its possible Q – can March 15th date be extended? A – only with agreement with owner, city council has given direction to expedite matter, want a decision by March 15th deadline Q – Is there a mortgage on property? A – it is unencumbered C – As a Niagara, resident 10 yrs, yellow highlight area (on slide) seen from my kitchen. thank city for efforts and maybe I will move into the building. A – question is, how badly do you (residents/City) want to preserve the green space and building. If a development proosal doesn’t make grade believes the project won’t be supported by city and won’t go forward. C – will the costs of saving the façade out weigh the demolition of the building? C – if façade saved earthquake upgrade would be expected C – the proposal as presented tonight is really one whereby residents are being asked to “Trust” the City. Q – Govt St res – if rezoning approved can city get commitment from owner that demolition won’t go ahead? Can City request/suggest that the church agree to another “no demolition extension” if zoning is passed, say about 1 year to show good faith? A – the rezoning would be tied to saving of the building Q/C Niagara res: appreciate fine line, preserving heritage concern. How will density impact homes nearby? We need to know what the plans will be. Q/C Niagara – most concern about the density. Is there a risk they could still demolish A – always a risk the owner can demolish Q – will higher density still be in place A – Yes C – MG – Thanked Murray for presentation. Commits to providing Murray with a list of those who expressed an interest in being kept informed of changes to the file by providing e-mail wrote addresses for that purpose and asked Murray to keep them posted as to changes, City council meeting, PLUSC, etc. A – will send to those listed on email list Q – Want a pdf on Murray’s presentation tonight A – MG responded – Since slide presentation is on JBNA computer, will commit to sending out slides as resident interested party list is confirmed. Murray committed to sending the Heritage significance document to those on list (note: 3-page handout had most of slide presentation and heritage significance information on it). C – TC understood that when DRC met with you (City) about this project that the developer would come back the JBNA. That is not what is being stated tonight and I would never have supported this had I known that. 7. Community Concerns Resident request topic: Councillor Liaison Terms of Reference and assignment. Mayor Helps had convened a meeting in December with neighbourhood associations to discuss the terms of reference for Councillor liaisons. Marg Gardiner participated at that meeting and explained the categories discussed. Q – and questions on the councilor liaison? None 8. Adjournment 8:30pm &&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&&& January 14 JBNA Meeting agenda jbna Reply to sender to list From: jbna@vcn.bc.ca To: jbna-members@vancouvercommunity.net Subject: January 14 JBNA Meeting agenda Date: Tue, 6 Jan 2015 07:04:00 -0800 ________________________________________________________________________________________________ JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION Monthly Meeting Agenda 7:00pm – 9:00pm Wednesday, January 14th, 2015 James Bay New Horizons – 234 Menzies St Agenda 1. Welcome & Announcements 2. Approval of Agenda 3. Correspondence/Announcements · Circulating Correspondence file 4. Minutes of November 12th meeting 5. Event: Victoria Cycling Grand Prix – June 7th Jon Watkin, Race Organizer 6. CALUC: 520 Niagara (Cathedral School) Rezoning Murray Miller, City Heritage Planner 7. Community Concerns Resident request: Councilor liaison: Terms of Reference and assignment FM headphones may be available at the meeting for those with hearing loss. JAMES BAY NEIGHBOURHOOD ASSOCIATION MINUTES General Meeting December 10, 2014. 1. Welcome: 7:05 pm (~ 39 in attendance): Tom Coyle: Chair, Trevor Moat recorded minutes. Tom invited everyone to share in the seasonal food provided by Thrifty Foods, and thanked Thrifty Foods for their contribution. 2. Agenda (amended): m/s/c 3. Minutes of November 13, 2013. Approved m/s/c 4. Correspondence – circulated 5. Transitions: Opportunities and Challenges in James Bay Marg Gardiner, JBNA Marg provided an overview of significant developments and potential developments currently proposed for James Bay. 6. Downtown and James Bay Ken Kelly, Downtown Victoria Business Association (DVBA) Ken provided an enthusiastic and upbeat presentation of the challenges and opportubities of downtown. Questions/Comments C: I moved here in 1985 – never a problem walking around downtown. It seems no different now. I’m upset by people who are fearful of downtown and the homeless. R: I agree with that. C: Homelessness and mental health are major issues. You didn’t mention the drug dealers, causing closure of Mustard Seed, for example. This is a DVBA issue. I go where there is free parking at all times, not just first hour. You emphasized Fisgard and south, but really should start at Hillside. James Bay streets should not be included in downtown. R: There are problems with drug dealers, but they aren’t really a problem for locals. They are a problem for our visitors though, and we must have enforce laws that control those people. C: Thanks for the presentation – I hope you’re successful bring communities together. Friends in Saanich who have have not been here in years visited recently; the one-hour-free program is working. There are many empty storefronts. What’s the problem? Why has lower Douglas been vacant for years? We need to work together on that. R: Lower Douglas is a challenge. An escalating lease arrangement might help. The City is helping by encouraging high density residential work and heritage tax support. We’d like to find ways to get more investors involved to participate. C: The DVBA Christmas effort was very positive this year. It attracted many visitors. I live on Quebec Street, and downtown is important to us. I am concerned about mobility. I want the DVBA to consider transportation for less mobile people in the long term. I also like what’s going on along Fort Street. The new cafés and restaurants are positive. R: We work closely with the City and want to renew the wayfaring system to create new means by which downtown can be understood and used. C: We talk about pedestrianized centres, but we need to do more, year-round, not just on festival days. We need a commuter shuttle to connect the downtown with the neighbouring communities. This will obviate the need for huge buses through small streets and neigbourhoods. We’d like to partner with you on these issues. R: In 2009 we tried a shuttle bus that ran in summer, but it was expensive. Whatever we do, it has to be safe and reliable. Q: If people from communities outside Victoria are so enamored with downtown, why shouldn’t they support costs, such as policing efforts, Johnson Street Bridge, heritage, etc? R: People should know that 50% of the charges laid at bars and restaurants are from people outside Victoria. It is a problem, and amalgamation could help. 7. Library Branch Proposal for Menzies/Superior Lynne Jordan, Deputy CEO, Greater Victoria Public Library (GVPL) Kevin Murdoch, Vice-Chair, GVPL Jennifer Windecker, Director, Public Services, GVPL Our purpose tonight is to gather information from you and provide details regarding the proposed James Bay branch of the GVPL at Capital Park. We’re still in very early days. The presentation outlined history of library connections to James Bay. James Bay was recognized as one of the most important areas to provide library services given its high density of 11,000 people and positive results on a recent survey for Capital Park. Questions Q: Has an architect been chosen, or RFP issued? What about the school in James Bay? Could that be utilized? A: No, not yet. We have concepts, and they have been prepared by partners of Jawl Developments. We’re working with our existing partners regarding locations – we can only consider that right now. C: I’m excited about this and really keen on the location. There are people who aren’t mobile in James Bay who would make use of this branch. I encourage you strongly to convince the City that it is our turn for a library. It was part of the original Accord – it’s time. This should be a modern “do-it-all” facility with meeting space, coffee shops, etc. C: A library and multi-use facility were the top two amenities mentioned in the Capital Park survey. How will you be able to finance the internal upgrades? Will the City support it, technology partners, others? What will it cost to pull this together? A: We estimated $1.4M in 2009. It depends on partnerships and feature inclusions. C: The library needs a link to the inner courtyard, and I think you should speak with Jawl Properties about that soon. A Performance Venue would also be valuable for Fringe, plays, etc. You mentioned an application to the City’s capital fund, but have not mentioned what might be needed. What would you want for funding from the City? A: The numbers are undefined at the moment – the City would need to provide space. We need to work forward from there. C: I echo much of what has been said. If we don’t act now, have we lost a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity? The City needs to come on board to make this happen. C: This is an exciting idea and the site is perfect. This will help rejuvenate Menzies Street. Shared space was always a part of the Accord – this community will embrace a library here very enthusiastically. It will be very well used, especially with new technologies incorporated. C: Locating it at the corner of Michigan and Menzies would be better. It’s a major pedestrian corridor, and will still have good access. There is also proximity to the seniors’ centre, Irving Park, and the Community Project. Who suggested this location? Could it be relocated? Also, will there be a way to continue volunteer participation in the library. How can you incorporate the volunteer community that already exists? A: We’ve already been approached by JBCP regarding how they can help. We’d like to work with them. C: James Bay is very ready for this project – lots of support. C: We really need a library in James Bay. It should be the most modern, updated facility it can be. Don’t cater only to seniors – let’s make it modern so it can attract and keep families in James Bay. All the amenities mentioned should be incorporated. We could add a literary arts festival – we should be presenting them here. We could have our community meetings there. We don’t need a lot of space, just well-planned space. C: I’m hoping to see echoes of the San Diego library – branch of the art gallery, also providing conference rooms for small businesses and for people working at home. 8. Community Concerns Complaint that Community Concerns were not heard, even though there was time. The Chair recognised Fran Thoburn’s recent receipt of an award for Peace. Fran reminded everyone that no one earns these awards alone. 9. Adjournment 9:00pm _____________________________________________________________ NOTES: 1 – If you wish to have something considered for the agenda, the cutoff date is 3 weeks prior to the regular monthly meeting (held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month). 2 – JBNA, as a Society, is independent of James Bay New Horizons Society. James Bay New Horizons Society is responsible for operations, including rentals, of 234 Menzies.