City staff and the Accessibility Committee updated council on progress in making the city more accessible.
The upstairs washroom at the Civic Centre is undergoing renovations to make it accessible. The city also assisted the Curling Club in securing funding to build an accessibility ramp, also in progress. Additionally, they are working to make mobility rental kits available at the library. Funding has also been received to create three new bus shelters that will be wheelchair accessible.
In the last year and a half, the team has also completed an update of the city’s website to meet accessibility standards, upgraded the pool showers, implemented sensory swim programs, and provided the community with enhanced mobility workshops.
Bylaw infractions
From January to September 2024, 912 fines and tickets were issued in Prince Rupert.
Of these, 40 per cent were related to vehicle and traffic violations, 22 per cent to animal control issues, and 13 per cent to noise infractions. Additionally, 12 per cent were issued for unsightly properties.
The remaining fines and tickets were connected to various matters, including building permits, business licenses, illegal occupancy, nuisance complaints, unlawful dumping, and zoning violations.
Letters and Requests
Skeena-Bulkley Valley MP Taylor Bachrach asked council to nominate deserving individuals from the community for the King Charles coronation medal.
The city approved the Tsimshian Arts and Culture Society’s request for a letter of support for their funding application to the First Peoples Cultural Council. The program aims to collaborate with local fluent speaker Velna Nelson as a mentor to improve Sm’algyax fluency in the community.
The City of Prince Rupert approved a request for support by the Ts’msyen Prosperity Society. It is for their application to the BC Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development, and Innovation’s Rural Economic Diversification & Infrastructure Program. The society said this grant is vital for developing a regional economic diversification plan that benefits the city and the broader Indigenous community.
Downtown Core Revitalization Tax Exemption Program
City council approved a five-year municipal property tax exemption for 309 Third Avenue West, a residential property. This decision aligns with the Revitalization Tax Exemption Bylaw, which aims to encourage development in the downtown area.
