2 0 2 4 ANNUAL REPORT For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024
City of Chilliwack British Columbia, Canada 2024 Annual Municipal Report For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 PREPARED BY THE CITY OF CHILLIWACK FINANCE DEPARTMENT 8550 YOUNG ROAD ~ CHILLIWACK, BC ~ V2P 8A4
Stó:lō Welcome Figures Chilliwack City Staff TERRITORY ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The City of Chilliwack acknowledges that we are honoured to live, work, and play on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Stó:lō Coast Salish peoples.
7 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK Table of Contents Introduction City Snapshot.....................................................................................................10 Message from the Mayor.................................................................................11 Organizational Chart........................................................................................13 City Council.........................................................................................................14 Boards & Committees.......................................................................................15 2024 Highlights.................................................................................................16 Council’s Strategic Goals.................................................................................18 Departmental Overviews Administration ..................................................................................................44 Communications & Legislative Services .....................................................45 Development & Regulatory Enforcement Services (DARES)...................46 Engineering .......................................................................................................48 Finance ................................................................................................................53 Fire .......................................................................................................................54 Human Resources ...............................................................................................55 Information Technology .................................................................................56 Planning .............................................................................................................57 Public Safety & Social Development ............................................................58 Public Works & Parks Operations ..................................................................60 Recreation & Culture........................................................................................62 Utility Operations .............................................................................................63 Subsidiaries Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation (CEPCO) ...............................64 Tourism Chilliwack Inc.....................................................................................66 Statistical Information Statistical Comparisons...................................................................................69 Permissive Tax Exemptions.............................................................................77 2024 Audited Financial Statements KPMG LLP Auditor’s Report.............................................................................81 Consolidated Statement of: - Financial Position.......................................................................................84 - Operations & Accumulated Surplus......................................................85 - Change in Net Financial Assets..............................................................86 - Cash Flows...................................................................................................87 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.............................................88 Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation (CEPCO)..............................103 Tourism Chilliwack Inc. .................................................................................121 Farm Fields from a Plane Chilliwack City Staff
9 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK Introduction City Snapshot Message from the Mayor Organizational Chart City Council Boards & Committees 2024 Highlights Council’s Strategic Goals Elk Mountain Sunset Chilliwack City Staff
CITY OF CHILLIWACK | 2024 Annual Report 10 11 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK City Snapshot Message from the Mayor Located in the heart of the Fraser Valley, British Columbia $737,872 Average House Price 67% Curbside Waste Diversion Rate 7 Off Leash Dog Areas 42,803 acres Farmland 747 New Business Licences Issued $314M Building Permit Construction Values I am pleased to present the 2024 Annual Report for the City of Chilliwack on behalf of Council. In this report you will find important information about City operations, including a financial overview, accomplishments and progress made on Council’s strategic goals. This report provides you with a summary of what we have accomplished in the year, as well as a road map for where we want to go next. In 2024, we focused on creating a more accessible and inclusive community. We were honoured to receive the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certified Gold Rating for improvements made to the Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre. Equipment improvements and accessible features were also incorporated into many of our local playgrounds, including Sardis Park and the brand-new Webb Avenue Park. We also launched an accessibility survey with in-person engagement and heard valuable feedback from residents on how to continue to make our city more inclusive for everyone. In recognition of the importance of the heritage, culture, and continued contributions of Stó:lō Coast Salish peoples to this region, we were honoured to add two new welcome figures in the spring, carved by Yeqwyeqwí:ws First Nation Chief Terry Horne, in front of City Hall. We completed numerous key infrastructure projects throughout the community in 2024. We continued to make parking downtown easier with the addition of 58 new stalls at the Victoria Avenue parking lot, and finished work on a new pedestrian walkway called Paramount Alley, which allows a safe walking path from the Victoria Avenue parking lot to Yale Road. In the summer, we replaced a culvert on Prest Road in preparation for the remainder of the Prest road-widening work to be completed in 2025. We also worked on active transportation initiatives with the creation of a multiuse pathway on Tyson and Keith Wilson roads, allowing residents safe transportation options when getting around Chilliwack. What we achieved in 2024 would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of Council, advisory committee members, volunteers, City staff, and you, the citizens of Chilliwack. Thank you to anyone who called, emailed, took a survey, left a comment, participated in a public hearing, or attended a meeting this year. We look forward to hearing from even more of you in the future as we work to make Chilliwack a community where all residents have the opportunity to thrive. Enjoy the read! Mayor Ken Popove 107,800 Population * * * * * * Image designed using resources by Freepik.com *
13 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK Organizational Chart Buzzing into Summer Flowers Chilliwack City Staff Deputy Chief Administrative Officer (DCAO) Jennifer Hahn RCMP Officer in Charge Superintendent Davy Lee Fire Chief Andrew Brown Director of Public Safety & Social Development Karen Stanton Director of Information Technology Cory Carruthers Director of Development & Regulatory Enforcement Glen White Director of Human Resources Jennifer Hahn Director of Planning Gillian Villeneuve Director of Recreation & Culture Darrell Lindhout Director of Communications & Legislative Services Jamie Leggatt Director of Engineering Kara Jefford Director of Finance Glen Savard Director of Utility Operations Sandy Hamilton Corporate Project Manager Eric Dyck Mayor Ken Popove Councillors Chris Kloot Jason Lum Bud Mercer Nicole Read Jeff Shields Harv Westeringh Director of Public Works & Parks Joe Koczkur Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) David Blain Cloudy Views from Mt. Cheam Chilliwack City Staff
CITY OF CHILLIWACK | 2024 Annual Report 14 15 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK City Council Mayor Ken Popove Councillor Chris Kloot Councillor Jason Lum Councillor Bud Mercer Councillor Jeff Shields Councillor Harv Westeringh Chilliwack City Council includes the Mayor and six Councillors who are elected for a four-year term. Members of the current City Council were elected in October 2022 and took office on November 1, 2022. Councillor Nicole Read Boards & Committees Affordable Housing and Development Advisory Committee Councillor Harv Westeringh (Chair) Councillor Bud Mercer (Vice Chair) Agricultural and Rural Advisory Committee Councillor Chris Kloot (Chair) Councillor Harv Westeringh (Vice-Chair) Accessibility and Inclusion Advisory Committee Councillor Jason Lum (Chair) Councillor Jeff Shields (Vice-Chair) Chilliwack Business Improvement Association (BIA) Councillor Jeff Shields (Liaison) Chilliwack Arts and Cultural Centre Society Board Councillor Jeff Shields (Liaison) Chilliwack Community Advisory Board (Reaching Home) Mayor Ken Popove Councillor Harv Westeringh Chilliwack Community Safety Governance Committee Councillor Bud Mercer (Chair) Clint Hames, Former Chilliwack City Mayor (Vice-Chair) Mayor Ken Popove Chilliwack Creative Commission Councillor Jason Lum (Liaison) Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation Mayor Ken Popove (Ex-Officio) Councillor Nicole Read (Liaison) Chilliwack Healthier Community Mayor Ken Popove (Chair) Councillor Jeff Shields (Alternate) Chilliwack Parks and Trails Advisory Committee Councillor Bud Mercer (Chair) Councillor Harv Westeringh (Vice-Chair) Design Review Advisory Committee Councillor Chris Kloot (Chair) Councillor Bud Mercer (Vice-Chair) Emergency Executive Committee Mayor Ken Popove (Chair) Councillor Jason Lum Councillor Chris Kloot Fraser Valley Aboriginal Relations Committee Mayor Ken Popove Councillor Jeff Shields (Alternate) Fraser Valley Regional District Board Mayor Ken Popove Councillor Jason Lum Councillor Chris Kloot Councillor Nicole Read Councillor Jeff Shields (First Alternate) Councillor Harv Westeringh (Second Alternate) Councillor Bud Mercer (Third Alternate) Fraser Valley Regional Hospital Board Mayor Ken Popove Councillor Jason Lum Councillor Chris Kloot Councillor Nicole Read Councillor Jeff Shields (First Alternate) Councillor Harv Westeringh (Second Alternate) Councillor Bud Mercer (Third Alternate) Fraser Valley Regional Library Councillor Nicole Read Mayor Ken Popove (Alternate) Heritage Advisory Committee Councillor Nicole Read (Chair) Councillor Bud Mercer (Vice-Chair) Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel Councillor Jeff Shields Councillor Harv Westeringh Councillor Bud Mercer Public Art Advisory Committee Councillor Nicole Read (Chair) Councillor Harv Westeringh (Vice-Chair) Public Safety Advisory Committee Councillor Bud Mercer (Chair) Councillor Nicole Read (Vice-Chair) Tourism Chilliwack Councillor Harv Westeringh (Liaison) Transportation Advisory Committee Councillor Jeff Shields (Chair) Councillor Jason Lum (Vice-Chair)
CITY OF CHILLIWACK | 2024 Annual Report 16 2024 HIGHLIGHTS GOOD STEWARDSHIP OF MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE y Installed 2,050 recessed reflectors. y Replaced the pavement at four railway crossings. y Upgraded 450 metres of sanitary sewer mains. y Completed LED lighting upgrades at Cheam Centre, Community Policing office, Hobby Hill Preschool, Firehall No. 4 and the Chilliwack Cultural Centre. y Installed two concrete box culverts on Gill Road and Prest Road to improve flood resilience. ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP y Planted 1,500 new trees along sections of Camp Slough, Hope Slough and Chilliwack Creek. y Achieved a curbside diversion rate of 67% and reduced curbside recycling contamination rate from 5.9% to 4.9%. y Added a second drop-off bin for the Book Recycling Program at the Bailey Landfill Recycling Depot. y Installed five new solar-powered Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) crosswalks. y Installed new LED field lights at Townsend Park. STRONG NEIGHBOURHOODS y Completed a new multi-use gaming area (MUGA) at Jinkerson Park. y Installed accessible rubber surface in Salish Park playground. y Completed construction on three new parks: Weeden, Webb and MacSwan. y Installed two new indigenous welcome figures in front of City Hall. y Completed new parking lot at Vedder Canal, at the west wend of Yale Road. y Installed accessible fitness equipment at Webb Avenue Park. Rocky Waters at Vedder River Chilliwack City Staff COMMUNITY SAFETY y Introduced a risk-based fire inspection program for properties. y Continued to focus on sharing resources and training opportunities with local First Nations. y Hosted the annual Chilliwack Safety Fair, sharing safety tips from community partners with hundreds of community members. y Two Assistant Managers assisted with day-to-day supervision and bylaw enforcement activities. VIBRANT ECONOMY y Continued multi-phase downtown redevelopment at District 1881. y Enhanced crosswalks with pedestrian activated flashing beacons at five locations in the downtown area. y Completed the new Paramount Alley breezeway project with a replica marquee P sign that was originally part of the Paramount Theatre sign for over 60 years.
CITY OF CHILLIWACK | 2024 Annual Report 18 19 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK COUNCIL’S STRATEGIC GOALS Council’s strategic goals provide a framework for the decisions made by Council and guide the City’s approach for delivering services to the community. Financial Stability Plan for current and anticipated community needs while maintaining reasonable property tax levels for taxpayers. Good Stewardship of Municipal Infrastructure Ensure proactive and preventative maintenance of roads, utility, water systems, civic facilities, municipal fleet, and other municipal infrastructure to maximize life span. Environmental Stewardship Encourage waste diversion and a "zero waste" philosophy, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gases while protecting waterways, riparian zones and airsheds. Strong Neighbourhoods Support accessibility, inclusion, diversity and truth and reconciliation. Fostering community spirit, attracting community events and supporting cultural groups, while providing high-quality parks and recreational opportunities. Vibrant Economy Contract with CEPCO for promotion of economic development and encouragement of focused development in critical areas. Work to create an environment that is positive to business creation. Connected Community Provide opportunities to hear from the community, meet with other levels of government and share information throughout the community. Organizational Excellence Employ recruitment strategies that focus on attracting the best workforce, while providing opportunity for internal advancement. Provide focus on workplace safety and on-site training while encouraging ongoing professional development. Customer Service Ensure employees receive customer service training in order to provide excellent and efficient service to the public. Community Safety Continue to enhance community safety through a wide range of municipal services while supporting RCMP initiatives and ICBC road safety initiatives. STRATEGIC GOAL #1: FINANCIAL STABILITY Plan for current and anticipated community needs while maintaining reasonable property tax levels for taxpayers. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 ADDRESS COMMUNITY NEEDS Prepare for anticipated and unanticipated community needs. Completed the annual update to the City’s long-term Comprehensive Municipal Plan, identifying short-term priorities and anticipated long-term needs. Planning and funding strategies are built into the Comprehensive Municipal Plan for projects that may be eligible for future infrastructure grants to ensure municipal funding portions are in place. BALANCED BUDGET Fund planned capital expenditures without long-term borrowing debt and identify grant opportunities. All capital expenditures funded without long-term debt in the 2024 Comprehensive Municipal Plan. Ongoing grant research for eligible project opportunities. Completed successful applications for available government grant funding programs, to help offset project costs. REASONABLE PROPERTY TAXATION Maintain reasonable property tax levels and ensure new growth pays for itself. Chilliwack maintains the lowest general municipal taxation levy, on a representative home, when compared to 19 Lower Mainland communities surveyed. With the inclusion of water, sewer and curbside waste collection fees, Chilliwack’s total fees are lower by an even greater margin, while providing vast services and amenities. Chilliwack continues to have a low business class property tax multiplier. Reviewed Development Cost Charge (DCC) Bylaw and amended rates accordingly to ensure growth-driven capital needs are completed and funded by DCCs where eligible. Initiated the Residential Development Financial Analysis project to determine feasible rates for potential Amenity Cost Charges (ACCs) and updates to the DCC program to ensure growth-driven capital needs on community amenities and infrastructure are aligned with new Provincial legislation.
CITY OF CHILLIWACK | 2024 Annual Report 20 21 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK STRATEGIC GOAL #2: GOOD STEWARDSHIP OF MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE Ensure proactive and preventative maintenance of roads, utility, water systems, civic facilities, municipal fleet, and other municipal infrastructure to maximize life span. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 ROAD AND UTILITY SYSTEM MAINTENANCE Maintain utility systems, minimize service delivery interruptions and meet pavement quality index goals for roadways. Ongoing investment in the road rehabilitation program, resulting in 10 kilometres of roads repaved. Installed 2,050 recessed reflectors. Replaced approximately 370 snow-plowable reflectors. Completed approximately 7,065 lineal metres of crack sealing. Replaced approximately 2,320 metres of aging cast iron water distribution pipes due to condition and fire flow requirements. Upgraded 481 metres of sanitary sewer main due to capacity. Completed inspections of 30 road culverts to ensure safe condition and ongoing maintenance of assets. Replaced six aging culvert crossings. Installed a new multi-use path along Yale Road, near Parr Road, along one of the busiest sections where no pedestrian facilities previously existed. Completed a key sidewalk connection along Edward Street to provide accessible connections to the hospital neighbourhood. Upgraded the Vedder and South Sumas Road intersection to better accommodate traffic volumes and improve intersection safety. Replaced the pavement at four railway crossings. Completed a detailed design for railway crossing upgrades at Knight Road and the Valley Rail Trail crossing. Completed cycling improvements on Mary Street, from Hodgins Avenue to Princess Avenue, to increase the active transportation network. Commenced installation of protected bike lanes on Knight Road, from Evans Road to Topaz Drive, to increase the active transportation network. Construction underway for urbanization of Tyson Road, from Keith Wilson Road to Evans Road, and Keith Wilson Road, from Garrison Boulevard to Tyson Road. Construction to include full drainage improvements, curb and gutters, multi-use pathways, sidewalks, street lighting and tree-lined boulevards. Commenced corridor safety improvements, at the Luckakuck Way traffic signal, including concrete medians and removal of the twoway left turn lane and replacing it with designated left turn lanes. STRATEGIC GOAL #2 CONTINUED: GOOD STEWARDSHIP OF MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE Ensure proactive and preventative maintenance of roads, utility, water systems, civic facilities, municipal fleet, and other municipal infrastructure to maximize life span. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 ROAD AND UTILITY SYSTEM MAINTENANCE Maintain utility systems, minimize service delivery interruptions and meet pavement quality index goals for roadways. Installed GPS pre-emption systems at five intersections for improved fire department service. Upgraded detection equipment with more robust detection cameras at two intersections. Installed a back-up battery system in the event of power outages at one signalized intersection. Achieved substantial completion of the Wastewater Treatment Plant outfall rehabilitation project. Completed construction of Promontory Zone 2 Reservoir, Promontory Zone 3 & 4 Booster, Chilliwack Mountain Zone 3 Booster and Mount Shannon Zone 1 Booster. Completed the predesign for the Marble Hill Zone 2 Reservoir and Sunrise PRV as well as the Chilliwack Mountain Zone 1 Reservoir Geo-investigation. Procured and updated the new sanitary sewer and drinking water models and completed the sanitary sewer asset evaluation study to identify deficiencies to inform future capital planning and support growth. Issued five new Waste Discharge Permits and renewed four existing permits to enhance wastewater source control. Awarded the Biological Treatment System Expansion (BTSE) design build project to Tritech/Stantec to upgrade the biological treatment process at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Projected completion by August 2026. Completed a stormwater infrastructure master plan to evaluate the condition of the storm drainage network and to identify infrastructure replacement needs and funding requirements. Replaced Sewer Pump Station 9 with a new pump equipped with a standby generator to maintain service during hydro outages.
CITY OF CHILLIWACK | 2024 Annual Report 22 23 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK STRATEGIC GOAL #2 CONTINUED: GOOD STEWARDSHIP OF MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE Ensure proactive and preventative maintenance of roads, utility, water systems, civic facilities, municipal fleet, and other municipal infrastructure to maximize life span. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 MUNICIPAL FACILITY AND FLEET MAINTENANCE Extend the life of buildings by funding repairs and maintenance in a timely manner. Maintain fleet for optimal performance and life span. Completed LED lighting upgrades at Cheam Centre, Community Policing office, Hobby Hill Preschool, Firehall No. 4 and the Chilliwack Cultural Centre. 530 heavy duty vehicles/equipment serviced and inspected. Completed over 1,900 repairs and preventative maintenance work orders for equipment and fleet. Completed structural investigation upgrades and corrosion repairs at Cheam Leisure Centre. Completed interior painting in the aquatic areas at Cheam Leisure Centre and multiple areas of Sardis Sports Complex. Completed revitalization of the sauna at Cheam Leisure Centre. Completed a mechanical assessment on Cheam Leisure Centre. Continued replacement of older cardio and weight equipment at Cheam Leisure Centre. Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre weight room received a largescale fitness equipment upgrade, including replacement of the fullstrength equipment as well as functional fitness and cool down areas. Completed major maintenance works at the Cheam Leisure Centre including water filtration system, sauna, tiling, painting and repairs during aquatic side shutdown. Completed sound deadening upgrades to the sport and banquet area at Chilliwack Curling and Community Centre. Received a $40,000 grant for main theatre stage lighting & audio system upgrades at the Chilliwack Cultural Centre. STRATEGIC GOAL #2 CONTINUED: GOOD STEWARDSHIP OF MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE Ensure proactive and preventative maintenance of roads, utility, water systems, civic facilities, municipal fleet, and other municipal infrastructure to maximize life span. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 WATER QUALITY Ensure adequate water supply and maintain potable water standards Council approved the Water Conservation Plan update which includes revising the annual water restriction period from May 1 through to October 15, revising the watering restriction stages to a four-stage system and updating the restriction triggers graph to conserve water during drought conditions. Rebranded the Ugliest Lawn contest to Good as Gold which encourages residents to conserve water by maintaining their lawns in a dormant state while keeping them neat and mowed. Water samples tested weekly and quarterly through a drinking water quality testing program for a variety of parameters. Completed the semi-annual water main flushing, reservoir cleaning and production well repairs. Continued water conservation initiatives including the Rain Barrel Rebate Program, Toilet Rebate Program, and distributing Water Conservation Kits. Completed irrigation well drilling at Fairfield Park.
CITY OF CHILLIWACK | 2024 Annual Report 24 25 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK STRATEGIC GOAL #2 CONTINUED: GOOD STEWARDSHIP OF MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE Ensure proactive and preventative maintenance of roads, utility, water systems, civic facilities, municipal fleet, and other municipal infrastructure to maximize life span. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 FLOOD PROTECTION Maintain dikes to provincial standards, ensure adequate drainage and maximize funding opportunities. Cleaned 47,000 linear channel metres of drainage watercourses plus three shale traps, with approval from Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship. All dikes, pump stations and flood boxes inspected and maintained prior to high winter stream flows. Annual 2024 dike inspection reports submitted to BC Inspector of Dikes, as per the provincial Dike Maintenance Act requirements. Flood Response Plans for the Fraser River and Vedder River are updated annually to provide protocol for monitoring and responding to emergency conditions from high water levels on the respective rivers, under the City of Chilliwack’s Emergency Response Plan. Supported provincial agencies and their consultants and contractors as they removed 195,000 m3 of sediment from the Vedder River to address the 440,000 m3 that deposited during the 2021 atmospheric river events. Approved for an additional $150,000 grant for phase 2 of the preliminary design project for the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund Disaster Risk Education funding stream for the Chilliwack Creek Drainage Pump Station Upgrade, bringing the total funding contribution to $300,000. Completed a condition assessment of the Chilliwack Creek Drainage Pump Station. Installed two concrete box culverts on Gill Road and Prest Road to replace at-risk infrastructure and improve flood resilience. Developed a city-wide hydrologic and hydraulic stormwater model to identify deficiencies in the system and inform future capital plans. Completed a master stormwater infrastructure asset study to assess the condition of our storm mains and prioritize future stormwater utility upgrades. Gathered stormwater flow monitoring data at 20 locations. STRATEGIC GOAL #3: ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP Encourage waste diversion and a "zero waste" philosophy, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gases while protecting waterways, riparian zones and airsheds. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 PROTECT WATERWAYS AND RIPARIAN AREAS Enhance fish habitat and maintain Riparian Areas Protection Regulation standards. ♦ Collaborated with First Nations communities, local businesses and community volunteers to remove invasive species and replant native trees and shrubs along creeks. ♦ Installed a new culvert crossing at Bell Slough to improve fish habitat and water quality. ♦ Mitigative measures undertaken to preserve and enhance fish habitats during open channel drainage maintenance. ♦ Supported semi-annual Adopt-a-River events and other river cleanups undertaken by volunteers. ♦ Planted 1,500 new trees along sections of Camp Slough, Hope Slough and Chilliwack Creek. ♦ Planted 500 new trees as part of the Teskey Pond expansion project. WASTE DIVERSION Achieve a 75% curbside program waste diversion rate by 2025, promote a "zero waste" philosophy and maximize recycling initiatives. ♦ Achieved curbside diversion rate of 67%. ♦ Zero waste initiatives undertaken including curbside recycling and compostable waste programs, Household Hazardous Waste Day, CityWide Garage Sales, Large Item Pick-up and Shred-A-Thon events. ♦ Completed improvements to the Bailey Landfill Recycling Depot, including the installation of compactors for cardboard and mixed recyclables to add capacity at the site. ♦ Added a second drop-off bin, in addition to the previous bin introduced in 2023, for the Book Recycling Program at the Bailey Landfill Recycling Depot. ♦ Assisted Fraser Valley Regional District in meeting region-wide separation requirements for recycling and compostable materials through source separation requirements for all properties in Chilliwack and enforcement of surcharges on loads of garbage containing more than 5% compostable waste or recyclables at the Bailey Landfill. ♦ Reduced waste impact at Bailey Landfill by introducing an online and bookmarking option for the community Leisure Guide. ♦ Promoted Waste Diversion Kits for event hosts, to provide threestream collection bins for garbage, recycling, and compost. ♦ Provided presentations to over 400 students in local elementary schools to promote waste reduction and stewardship as part of the Environmental Educational Campaign.
CITY OF CHILLIWACK | 2024 Annual Report 26 27 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK STRATEGIC GOAL #3 CONTINUED: ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP Encourage waste diversion and a "zero waste" philosophy, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gases while protecting waterways, riparian zones and airsheds. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 AIR QUALITY Protect the airshed, measure greenhouse gas emissions and implement energy efficiency opportunities where feasible. Followed the provincial Agricultural Environmental Management Code of Practice. Continued implementation of the Corporate and Community Climate Action Plans. Utilized methane from Wastewater Treatment Plant to run biogas boiler to heat anaerobic digesters. Extracted landfill gas at the Bailey Landfill through horizontal gas collectors and vertical wells. Completed the Radon Test Kit Challenge by providing residents with 200 free test kits and then reporting the results in partnership with Take Action on Radon and Fraser Valley Regional District. Completed the GHG consumption optimization replacement of the dehumidification equipment for rinks 1 & 2 at Sardis Sports Complex. Completed a Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Reduction Pathways assessment on seven large municipal buildings including Cheam Leisure Centre, Sardis Sports Complex, and the Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre. Worked with the Ministry of Environment to respond to air quality complaints. Enforced the Open Burning Bylaw and promoted alternatives to burning to reduce smoke. Continued design and construction work recommended by the Active Transportation Plan to encourage more active modes of transportation. STRATEGIC GOAL #3 CONTINUED: ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP Encourage waste diversion and a "zero waste" philosophy, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gases while protecting waterways, riparian zones and airsheds. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 SUSTAINABILITY Explore renewable energy opportunities, facilitate sustainable transportation and prepare longterm plan for landfill. Supported provincially mandated free transit for children under 12. Procured a new electric vehicle for the City fleet. Installed five new solar-powered Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) crosswalks. Continued design and construction work recommended by the Active Transportation Plan for sidewalks, multi-use pathways and protected bike lanes. Conducted a Step Code Super Series Workshop for building community in collaboration with the City of Abbotsford and City of Mission. Utilized Local Government Climate Action Program funding to support home energy upgrade rebates through the CleanBC Better Homes program, to fund municipal facility energy studies and to create a new Energy Manager position to oversee municipal building and fleet greenhouse gas reduction planning and implementation. Converted conventional building thermostats to smart controlled devices. Installed stormwater treatment devices and drainage infiltration systems to support groundwater recharge and aquifer health. Installed new LED field lights at Townsend Park. Converted lighting to LED fixtures in multiple places including Cheam Leisure Centre, Chilliwack Cultural Centre, Sardis Sports Complex, Fire Hall #1 and #4, Community Policing office, Heritage Park and Hobby Hill Preschool. Continued efficiency driven lighting upgrades to the Hub Theatre at the Chilliwack Cultural Centre. Completed an electrical assessment study at both Cheam Leisure Centre and Landing Leisure Centre. Received a $112,500 grant to replace the dehumidification system at rinks 1 & 2 at Sardis Sports Complex. The new system will be energy efficient to greatly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Received the Provincial Efficiency in Action Award for the Leisure Centre waste heat recapture system which reduces greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 553 tonnes (11.6%) per year.
CITY OF CHILLIWACK | 2024 Annual Report 28 29 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK STRATEGIC GOAL #4: STRONG NEIGHBOURHOODS Support accessibility, inclusion, diversity and truth and reconciliation. Fostering community spirit, attracting community events and supporting cultural groups, while providing high-quality parks and recreational opportunities. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 COMMUNITY CULTURE Foster community spirit by attracting community events and supporting cultural groups, community organizations and public art initiatives. Funded a large number of block parties and neighbourhood gatherings through the Celebration and Activity Grant Program. The Chilliwack Public Art Advisory Committee continued to support public art initiatives. Community Development Initiatives policy funded a number of community non-profit service providers. PARKS AND TRAILS Provide and enhance quality parks and recreational opportunities. Completed a new multi-use gaming area (MUGA) at Jinkerson Park. Installed accessible rubber surface in Salish Park playground. Completed construction on three new parks: Weeden, Webb and MacSwan. Continued work with Fraser Valley Regional District to enhance regional connections in Chilliwack. Installed a new play structure at Townsend Park, featuring accessible play features for children ages 2-5. Replacement of artificial turf at Field A at Townsend Park. Installed five rest stops along the Coast to Canyon route. Replaced the bridge at Bridlewood Natural Area as part of the Promontory Trail Network. Completed expansion for No. 3 Road parking. Completed new parking lot at Vedder Canal, at the west end of Yale Road. STRATEGIC GOAL #4 CONTINUED: STRONG NEIGHBOURHOODS Support accessibility, inclusion, diversity and truth and reconciliation. Fostering community spirit, attracting community events and supporting cultural groups, while providing high-quality parks and recreational opportunities. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 INCLUSIVENESS Identify and support projects and programs that nurture accessibility, inclusion and diversity. Continued implementation of the Mayor’s Task Force on Inclusiveness, Diversity and Accessibility Action Plan. The Accessibility and Inclusion Advisory Committee worked on the Community Accessibility Plan and conducted community engagement. The Landing Leisure Centre achieved Gold Certification for accessibility through the Rick Hansen Foundation. Replaced Canada Day fireworks with a drone show to reduce the impact of fireworks on those suffering from neurodivergence. Updated Sardis Park playground with accessible play features for children ages 2-5, including an accessible swing, rubber surfacing, ramped entry, and a sun canopy. Installed accessible fitness equipment at Webb Avenue Park. Supported Pink Shirt Day. Continued to utilize alternative text on social media to make images more accessible. Provided funding for inclusive events through Community Development Initiatives Funding and the Neighbourhood Grant Program. Continued to make accessible sidewalk and crosswalk improvements, including the installation of curb letdowns and five new audible crosswalks. Playground accessibility improvements were included within the 10-year Comprehensive Municipal Plan. Installation of ADA compliant water fountains at Chilliwack Cultural Centre and Cheam Leisure Centre. Purchased new water wheelchairs for Landing Leisure Centre. Continued to work with Rick Hansen Foundation to update interior and exterior signage and amenities to improve accessibility at recreational properties. Introduced Sensory Sensitive Friendly Skates, for people who are neurodivergent, at the Coliseum and Sardis Sports Complex. Installed a new accessible elevator at the Evergreen Hall for patrons to use the Cheam Room stage. Installed a new accessible elevator at the Landing Sports Centre for patrons to reach the second-floor loft. Two Recreation staff members obtained an Access and Inclusion Certificate through the Rick Hansen Foundation.
CITY OF CHILLIWACK | 2024 Annual Report 30 31 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK STRATEGIC GOAL #4 CONTINUED: STRONG NEIGHBOURHOODS Support accessibility, inclusion, diversity and truth and reconciliation. Fostering community spirit, attracting community events and supporting cultural groups, while providing high-quality parks and recreational opportunities. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION Build relationships of mutual respect and understanding with local First Nations. Relationship building continues at the Council level. Ongoing support for Chilliwack Healthier Community and the Opening Doors Task Team. Supported four Indigenous led training sessions through Reaching Home for service agencies. Engagement with local First Nations Elders in support of Reaching Home including the Community Advisory Board and Point in Time Count. Staff utilized the Indigenous author library to further their education and understanding. Honoured the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Partnered on the “Rooted Waters” video series highlighting Indigenous Place Names around Chilliwack, including Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Chilliwack, Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation, Stó:lō Community Futures and Ch’íyáqtel First Nation. Installed two new solar-powered Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) crosswalks on Chilliwack River Road in partnership with Skowkale First Nation and with funding support from Fraser Health. Continued coordination with Tzeachten First Nation on the planned extension of a multi-use pathway on Bailey Road from Chilliwack River Road to Matheson Road. Wrote letters of support for Community to Community (C2C) grant applications for educational opportunities developed by Tzeachten First Nation. Partnered with School District #33 in hosting a two-day Truth and Reconciliation event. Continued work with Sqwá First Nation for a new dike to expand the flood protection area. Provided free facility use for a Truth and Reconciliation event at a local park. Installed two indigenous house posts at City Hall. Continued working with the province, Semá:th, Matsqui and Leq’á:mel First Nations, and City of Abbotsford on the Sumas River Watershed Flood Mitigation Plan to make Sumas Prairie more resilient to flooding. STRATEGIC GOAL #5: VIBRANT ECONOMY Contract with CEPCO for promotion of economic development and encouragement of focused development in critical areas. Work to create an environment that is positive to business creation. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 OPEN FOR BUSINESS Attract and maintain business. Worked with CEPCO to set mutual priorities for economic development. Continued to provide low business property taxes and fees, compared to other Lower Mainland communities, to attract and retain business within the city. Participating member of the Inter-Municipal Transportation Network for ride hailing services as well as the Inter-Municipal Business Licence program for trades contractors and other professionals in the construction industry for Fraser Valley municipalities. Continued working with the Chilliwack Economic Resource Network to develop and facilitate strategies to assist and support local businesses. Commenced construction of the Airport Electrical Upgrades project. PLANNING Ensure plans are in place to facilitate regional growth predictions. Chilliwack's Comprehensive Municipal Plan continues to accommodate regional growth. Began the Official Community Plan (OCP) update process to plan for the next 25 years of growth, to include workshops with stakeholders and staff, and public engagement opportunities. Completed the interim Housing Needs Report analysis to determine the five and 20-year housing supply needs to inform the OCP update and future housing policies. Continued implementing the Heritage Strategic Action Plan. Applied for round two of the Housing Accelerator Fund: a competitive grant program from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation intended to help speed up housing development and increase housing supply. Adopted Small-Scale Housing and Transit-Oriented Area bylaws to comply with Provincial legislation. Provided support to the District 33 School Board in planning future school site acquisitions. Received Provincial housing targets for the next five years of housing development approvals. Reviewed and submitted changes to census geography in preparation of the next census in 2026.
CITY OF CHILLIWACK | 2024 Annual Report 32 33 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK STRATEGIC GOAL #5 CONTINUED: VIBRANT ECONOMY Contract with CEPCO for promotion of economic development and encouragement of focused development in critical areas. Work to create an environment that is positive to business creation. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 TOURISM Maintain, enhance and promote Chilliwack's natural beauty and walkability. Enhanced crosswalks with pedestrian activated flashing beacons at five locations in the downtown area. Continued to implement improvements identified in the Cycle Vision and Active Transportation Plans to create connectivity with existing trails and facilities. ✓ DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION Encourage redevelopment in the downtown area. Revitalization tax exemptions available to promote business reinvestment in the downtown core. Continued multi-phase downtown redevelopment at District 1881. Approved public art to continue to enhance the downtown area. Completed the Paramount Alley breezeway project connecting the Victoria Avenue parking lot to the recent revitalized Yale Road frontage between Young Road and Nowell Street. Completed road rehabilitation on several downtown streets: • Nowell Street – First Avenue South to the railroad tracks. • Reece Avenue – Young Road to Williams Street. • Mary Street – Hocking Avenue to Princess Avenue. STRATEGIC GOAL #6: CONNECTED COMMUNITY Provide opportunities to hear from the community, meet with other levels of government and share information throughout the community. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 SHARE INFORMATION Make timely and accurate information available to the community. Over 47 print ads placed and two radio campaigns run to communicate information. 18 press releases issued. Responded to more than 158 media enquiries. Shared monthly e-newsletters about general City news and transportation projects. City website updated regularly. Information shared through the City's Facebook and Twitter accounts five days a week. The City has 17,608 Facebook followers, 8,693 Twitter followers, and 2,047 followers on LinkedIn. Launched Instagram with 743 followers. Alertable app helped amplify emergency communication to 8,901 subscribers. Created brochures and community information campaigns. Provided education and service alerts through the Curbside Collection app, which has over 28,000 users. Published neighbourhood profiles that summarize 2021 Census demographic data in easy-to-read brochures. Created brochures explaining new small-scale housing regulations. Engaged a consultant to facilitate community engagement on the City’s Official Community Plan. Reintroduced the Leisure Guide, a collaboration between several community organizations and facilitated by the city. RELATIONSHIPS Build and maintain relationships with other governments, organizations, and the community. Continued to build relationships with the development community. Ongoing dialogue between City elected officials and other municipal, provincial, federal and First Nations officials. Hosted UFV students and the public for City Studio project showcase.
CITY OF CHILLIWACK | 2024 Annual Report 34 35 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK STRATEGIC GOAL #6 CONTINUED: CONNECTED COMMUNITY Provide opportunities to hear from the community, meet with other levels of government and share information throughout the community. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 COMMUNITY FORUMS Provide platforms for community feedback on major issues. Hosted an in-person community engagement event for the Tyson Road widening project. Hosted in-person and online engagement for Princess Avenue one-way and Active Transportation project. Hosted an in-person community engagement for the accessibility plan. Community feedback was collected online, in-person, via email, mail and phone for various initiatives. Surveys conducted for various initiatives. Utilized online EngageChilliwack platform, which had 15,982 residents providing input on a variety of projects, including City Studio projects with the University of the Fraser Valley, the 2025 Financial Plan, and the Community Accessibility Plan. Utilized the online EngageChilliwack platform to receive input and feedback on budget priorities for the City’s Comprehensive Municipal Plan. STRATEGIC GOAL #7: ORGANIZATIONAL EXCELLENCE Employ recruitment strategies that focus on attracting the best workforce, while providing opportunity for internal advancement. Provide focus on workplace safety and on-site training while encouraging ongoing professional development. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 RECRUITMENT Strategize to attract and retain staff. Focused on internal advancement opportunities for staff. Offered educational opportunities to promote advanced knowledge and qualifications. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Encourage employee development and create opportunities for internal advancement. A combination of virtual and in-person training sessions were completed for a variety of educational courses. Provided refresher courses on important policy information. Provided refresher courses in relation to mental health to frontline workers. Delivered refresher training to all staff on the City’s Respectful Workplace Policy. Delivered PIECES (Progressive Institute of Education for Chilliwack Employees’ Success), an in-house leadership program facilitated by the Justice Institute of BC. Provided a series of First Nations Cultural Safety Training facilitated by Three Sisters Consulting. EFFICIENCY Provide fast and efficient service. Concerns and issues followed up on promptly. Maintained efficient turnaround times on approvals for all types of development. Established a web portal that ties into the existing permitting system and cloud-based software associated with building permit applications with funding from the Union of BC Municipalities Local Government Development Approvals Program. Initiated the Form and Character Design Guidelines update project to improve clarity for staff and the public, reduce uncertainty in the development process, and enable quicker City reviews. Expanded delegated authority powers of issuing Development Permits to include Small-Scale Housing. Updated development approvals tracking process to facilitate quicker data analysis and reporting on housing units.
CITY OF CHILLIWACK | 2024 Annual Report 36 37 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK STRATEGIC GOAL #8: CUSTOMER SERVICE Ensure employees receive customer service training in order to provide excellent and efficient service to the public. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 TRAINING Train employees to provide quality customer service. Continued to provide Customer Service Training for new employees. WORKPLACE SAFETY Build and maintain a safe and respectful workplace that minimizes work days lost due to injury. Additional support provided to staff, after an incident, resulting in less Lost Time Incidents and a stronger Return to Work process. Conducted monthly safety meetings to encourage greater staff engagement. Staff from all departments represented on three active Joint Health and Safety Committees. Provided Respectful Conduct in the Workplace training for all staff. Provided further knowledge for psychological safety and health education through poster campaigns, educated toolbox talks and courses. Implemented an online platform to facilitate access and improve document quality for health and safety issues. Continued providing training specific to safety-sensitive work including: Occupational First Aid, Traffic Control Certification, Blood Pathogens and Defensive Driving. Expanded peer-to-peer training support to include: Crane Operations, Bucket Truck Operations, Boom Lift, Snow and Ice Control, and Snow Plow Operations. Continued certification training for operationally relevant and safety-sensitive courses including: Fall Protection, Confined Space Entry and Rescue, Forklift, Trench and Evacuation, Utility Locating and Overhead Crane Operator. Continued annual hearing tests and respirator fit testing to maintain employee health and safety. Engaged in a study to support and promote staff personal safety and training at Sardis Sports Complex and Evergreen Hall. Organized a training workshop for the Engineering Department on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace. STRATEGIC GOAL #9: COMMUNITY SAFETY Continue to enhance community safety through a wide range of municipal services while supporting RCMP initiatives and ICBC road safety initiatives. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 FIRE AND LIFE SAFETY Provide effective fire and life safety education to the community and increase safety in multi-family residential buildings and gated communities. Introduced a risk-based fire inspection program for properties. Conducted an audit of the fire prevention division. Focused on large-scale fire life safety and emergency preparedness events to engage and educate the maximum number of community members. Collaborated with City departments to ensure safety measures are met in new development projects. EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS Prepare for response and recovery of the City in times of disaster and work with First Nations to integrate emergency plans. Exercised the City’s Emergency Response and Recovery Plan via two wildland/urban interface fire tabletop exercises. Trained additional Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) team members in Community Evacuations and the EOC Information Officer. Recruited and trained four additional Emergency Support Services (ESS) volunteers. Commenced technology upgrades for the EOC and ESS Team through UBCM grant funding. Continued to focus on capacity building and sharing resources and training opportunities with local First Nations. FIREFIGHTERS Continued firefighter staffing requirement planning and increase quality and quantity of firefighter training and education. Continued to develop and implement the training passport system to support firefighter and fire officer training and professional development. Continued on-site improvements at the fire training centre. Hired one additional full-time career firefighter. Implemented new promotional process focused on enhancing career officer development. Continued working towards maintaining crews of four firefighters, on Engines 1 and 4, at all times. Trained and equipped career and Paid On-Call firefighters in preparation to respond to interface and fires. Provided additional training and education to develop career and Paid On-Call firefighters and fire officers.
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