Highlights from May 25 Council meeting
Council Highlights
Bernard Ave. Business License refusal reconsideration
Council upheld the Licence Inspector’s decision not to issue a short-term rental business licence at 911 Bernard Ave. The property remains the subject of ongoing compliance and enforcement efforts.
Harvey Ave. hotel and apartments
Council supported a rezoning application for properties along Harvey and Saucier avenues to allow for two six-storey buildings for a hotel and apartment housing. The proposal aligns with the Official Community Plan by supporting redevelopment along a Transit Supportive Corridor with a mix of commercial and residential uses.
Density Bonus Program changes
Council approved amendments to the Official Community Plan that change how building heights are managed. Fixed height limits have been removed from OCP maps, with building height to be determined through zoning rules and Council consideration as part of future development applications.
Council also adopted a new Affordable Housing Reserve Fund Bylaw to ensure contributions from density bonusing are collected into a dedicated fund to support affordable and special needs housing.
Rental Incentives review
Council received an update on the City’s Rental Incentive Program, including a staff recommendation to phase it out in response to low vacancy rates. Council did not support the recommendation, citing ongoing pressures on development. The existing program remains in place.
First quarter financial performance
Council received the City’s first quarter financial performance report, which shows revenues and spending are tracking in line with the approved budget. Variances are largely attributed to normal seasonal patterns, with no significant financial risks identified at this time.
To watch a playback of the Council meeting and view all presentations, visit “Past Meetings” at kelowna.ca/council.
