Regular Council Highlights, October 7

Type(s)
District news and public notices

Planning and Development Applications:

UBCM – 2024 Local Government Development Approvals Program | P2024-003
Council approved the final report for streamlining development approvals, funded by a $145,000 UBCM grant. The project provides recommendations and next steps for improved procedures and clearer documents. Digital integration is underway.

Timeline Extension to Satisfy Development Permit Conditions| DP000802 | 10660 Hwy.97
Council approved a timeline extension for permit issuance Development Permit DP000802 for a 76-unit townhouse project at 10660 Hwy 97 to give the applicant more time to meet permit conditions. The original permit, approved in March 2024, included a voluntary 10-year rental covenant, but delays in executing it led to missed deadlines.  

Liquor Licence Referral Application | R0000416 | 1055 Camp Road
Gray Monk Estate Winery’s application to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch to increase its liquor service capacity from 65 to 200 people at 1055 Camp Road to accommodate special events and enhance agri-tourism, with no changes to operating hours and compliance with building and zoning regulations was supported with conditions. Council identified concerns with the potential impact of noise, issues with oversized vehicles accessing the property and overflow parking on Camp Road. Council’s concerns will be submitted to the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch for consideration.  

Temporary Use Permit & Non-farm Use | TUP00114 & ALR00196| 15792 Sawmill Road
Council approved a 3-year Temporary Use Permit for a seasonal boat storage business at 15792 Sawmill Road, located within the Agricultural Land Reserve. The business will operate in an existing building and help generate income to support future agricultural activities, including cattle and orchard development. The related Non-Farm Use application will be forwarded to the Agricultural Land Commission for authorization. 

Departmental Reports: 

Strategic Priorities Fund 2025 – Updated Resolution
Council supported a minor administrative amendment to a previously approved resolution to apply for a $1.29 million from the Strategic Priorities Fund to build a pedestrian bridge, multi-use pathway, and two pocket parks in Lake Country. The grant would enhance connectivity between the Town Centre and surrounding areas. 

Appointment of Municipal Auditor
Council approved the appointment of BDO Canada LLP as the municipal auditor for 2025–2029 following a competitive RFP process. BDO received the highest score based on price, methodology, experience, and contract terms. 

Encroachment Application E000018 at 11090 Eva Road
Council approved an encroachment at 11090 Eva Road to allow reconstruction of a retaining wall that extends into the District’s Right-of-Way. The new wall replaces a failing wooden structure with a more durable concrete design, improving slope stability and drainage. Before issuing the permit, the owner must register a Long-Term Encroachment Agreement and Covenant to formalize responsibilities and protect the District’s interests.

North Aberdeen Plateau
Council adopted the North Aberdeen Plateau Guidance Plan, a collaborative wildfire resilience strategy developed by the District of Lake Country, RDNO, and OKIB to protect water and cultural heritage values. The plan builds on a $15 million provincial grant and expands beyond fuel reduction to include watershed restoration, research, and long-term stability. Mayor Blair Ireland was appointed as the District’s representative on the plan’s leadership team.

POL2025-218 Video Surveillance System Policy
Council adopted Video Surveillance System Policy 218, 2025 to guide future installations with a strong focus on privacy and security. The policy aligns with FOIPPA and OIPC guidelines, requiring a Privacy Impact Assessment before any system is installed. It excludes third-party, RCMP, and traffic cameras, but sets clear responsibilities for third parties leasing District land.