Nanaimo residents are encouraged to check their mailboxes and email accounts for their 2022 Property Tax notices that were sent out this week. Property owners can skip the line and pay their property taxes online through their financial institution. Another option is to set up a pre-authorized withdrawal plan with the City of Nanaimo.

Property tax payments are due on July 4, 2022. A late payment penalty of 2 per cent will be applied to payments received after July 4, 2022 and another 8 per cent will be applied for ones made after August 31, 2022.

Along with their tax notice, residents will find this year's City Updates newsletter where they can learn about how taxes are calculated and used, how to claim the Home Owner Grant and the Property Tax Deferral program. In addition, the newsletter features information on the upcoming election, summer events in Nanaimo's parks and more. The newsletter is also available to view on the City website at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/CityUpdates.

For more information on taxes, Home Owner Grants and other ways to pay, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/taxes. To learn how tax dollars are allotted, see the 2022-2026 Financial Plan Quick Facts at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/budget.

Link to Strategic Plan: The City of Nanaimo encourages two-way communication with our Nanaimo residents especially in regards to property taxes. We are here to answer your questions. This contributes to "Governance Excellence" as one of four Council Priorities from the City’s 2019-2022 Strategic Plan.

Spring GoByBike will take place May 30-June 5. Register today and enter to win prizes, attend events, reduce emissions and save on your gas bill.

Celebration stations will be set up at various locations, hosted by many gracious sponsors during the week. Plan your bike routes accordingly so you can stop in to say hello and enter to win prizes. An updated digital cycling map will be available soon to assist with route planning.

Numerous biking events are planned and everyone is welcome. Join the Kickoff event May 29, Downtown Heritage Bike Tour May 31, Clean Up Ride June 4, Nanaimo (Handle) Bar Ride June 4 and the Wrap Up Event will take place June 11, after the commuter challenge.

There is also a way to participate virtually. The City of Nanaimo have joined in on the popular Bike Tag fun, initiated by the cycling community this photo tag game is played on bicycles and the object of the game is to find and create what are called "mystery locations". Bike Tag is played all over the world from Paris to Miami.

Registration is FREE so sign up today at gobybikebc.ca/nanaimo. Registered participants who submit their km's are automatically signed up for the chance to win the local grand prize giveaway - an adult bike and kids bike, donated by Canadian Tire.

Link to Strategic Plan: Taking a leadership role, focus on our environmental impact and climate change contributions.

The City of Nanaimo, Department of Parks, Recreation and Culture will be turning on the taps at the City's four water parks on Saturday, May 21 - just in time for the Victoria Day long weekend. The four parks are located at Deverill Square Park, Departure Bay Kiwanis Park, Mansfield Park and Harewood Centennial Park. The water is available daily from 9 am to 8 pm.

Key Points

Mayor Leonard Krog in Nanaimo Clippers colours.

Mayor Leonard Krog has issued a formal challenge to the Mayor of Penticton in anticipation of the Nanaimo Clippers and Penticton Vees hockey teams squaring off in the BCHL Fred Page Cup Finals.

Mayor Vassilaki happily accepted this challenge. Should Nanaimo win the series (best of 7 games) Penticton Mayor John Vassilaki will wear a Nanaimo Clippers hockey team jersey for an entire day and at a Council meeting. Mayor Vassilaki will also donate $100 to a charity of Mayor Krog's choice and will send a bottle of local wine to cheers the win.

However, if Penticton should win, Mayor Krog will wear a Penticton Vees jersey for an entire day and at a council meeting, he will donate a $100 to a charity of Mayor Vassilaki's choice and will send a plate of Nanaimo bars for the Penticton Mayor and Council to enjoy during a Council meeting.

Key Points

220511 – The City of Nanaimo is bringing back the popular annual Nanaimo Recycles Car Trunk Sale and registration is now open for interested vendors.

On Saturday, July 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., residents looking for a bargain or a unique buy can join up to 100 vendors selling used items from the trunk of their cars in the Country Club Centre parking lot. This free to attend reuse event aims to give unwanted household items a longer lease on life and to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill.

Residents interested in becoming a vendor at the Trunk Sale must register in advance to reserve their spot by emailing SortTossRoll@nanaimo.ca.

Link to Strategic Plan: Supporting Environmental Responsibility and Social Equity by extending the useful life of household items.

Residents of Nanaimo are urged to reduce blue cart contamination. Recycle BC, the provincial authority overseeing recycling across the province, requires recycling collectors such as the City of Nanaimo to maintain contamination rates of less than three per cent to meet contract requirements. Currently, Nanaimo's recycling contamination rate averages more than 10 percent.

The most common contamination found in recycling includes glass, electronics, plastic bags and overwrap, clothing, scrap metal, garbage, construction material, refundables, and hazardous waste.

Contamination can lead to increased service fees and recycling ending up in the landfill. It can also put workers at risk and damage equipment used in the recycling process. To reduce contamination levels, the City has put together an action plan. It includes increased communications and education, along with curbside inspections of blue carts and firmer stance on collecting. Those who continue to contaminate their recycling will receive a sticker alerting them of the item(s) not accepted. The goal is to never leave a cart behind, but households that continue to contaminate could see their blue carts not being collected.

For assistance with identifying blue cart accepted material use the What Goes Where Waste Wizard tool found on www.nanaimo.ca or download the Nanaimo Recycles App. Those without access to the internet or an app can call the Recycling Hotline at 1-800-732-9253.

Link to Strategic Plan: Ensuring we maintain contracts with key partners like Recycle BC to provide cost effective service delivery to residents.

Key Points

• Contamination rates as high as 18 per cent have been recorded in Nanaimo residential curbside recycling loads. Recycle B.C. requires that the City reduce this to three per cent or less to meet contract requirements.
• The City has increased communication and education while undertaking inspections of curbside recycling.
• Recycle B.C. has the ability to fine the City if contamination rates do not reduce.

Quotes

"It’s amazing how well we’ve adapted and become responsible recyclers over the years, but we have to be careful not to become a community of wish-cyclers, tossing items into the blue bin which can’t be properly handled at the recycling facility," says Mayor Leonard Krog. "That just creates more work on the line, undoes the great work other households have done, and ultimately could hit us in the pocketbooks in a big way. When in doubt, just throw it out; recycle the materials you’re sure of."

• The most common contamination found in curbside recycling are: glass, electronics, plastic bags and overwrap, clothing, scrap metal, garbage, construction material, refundables, and hazardous waste. If you cannot take these items to a depot, please place them in your garbage if it is safe to do so.
• Please empty and rinse containers and break down your cardboard. Cardboard must be 2’ x 2’ maximum. Recycling must be loose, please do not place into bags, boxes or stack items.
• Blue Cart Contamination Inspection Sheet
• Recycling - Blue Cart Information

Find a list of accepted blue cart items and the What Goes Where Waste Wizard Tool.

• Garbage - Black Cart Information

Find a list of what you can throw in your black cart and what happens to it after we pick it up.

• Organics - Green Cart Information

Find a list of many items you can place in the green cart and information about bag liners.

The City of Nanaimo is seeking experienced election workers for the 2022 General Local Election to be held Saturday, October 15. Anyone interested in working for the election can fill out an application form and submit it via email to elections@nanaimo.caor drop off in person to the Legislative Services Department in City Hall located at 455 Wallace Street. Applications must be received by 4:30 pm on Wednesday, June 29, 2022.

For more information and to download a copy of the application form, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/elections. The City thanks all applicants for their interest; however, only those candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted.

• A variety of positions are available for the 2022 General Local Election on Saturday, October 15, 2022.
• All election workers must be available to work on Election Day.
• Election workers must remain neutral and cannot publicly support candidates.
• Application forms are available to download on the City website.

"Working for the election is a rewarding experience. I encourage anyone interested in helping facilitate a key component of the democratic process to apply," says Sheila Gurrie Director, Legislative Services and Chief Election Officer

• Election Worker Application Form
• 2022 General Election Information

Today is the 135th anniversary of The No. 1 Esplanade mine explosions.

Starting at 5:55 pm on May 3, 1887, two explosions occurred 260 meters below sea level in what was known as the city's largest mine, No. 1 Esplanade Mine. The blast was so forceful it rocketed through the underground shafts for almost a kilometer.

The underground fire burned for two weeks. Because of such damage, the last of the bodies could not be recovered until July and unfortunately seven men never were recovered and remain somewhere beneath the Nanaimo Harbour to this day. This tragic accident took the lives of 150 miners, creating a massive impact to a community of approximately only 2,000 people at the time. Forty six women lost their husbands, 126 children lost their fathers and the mine lost 25% of its employees.

The explosions of the No. 1 Esplanade Mine are known as the worst mining disaster in British Columbia's history and second worst industrial accident in Canada (the mining disaster of 1914 in Hillcrest, Alberta killed 189 miners). A jury blamed the explosion on the firing of an unprepared and badly planted charge that ignited accumulated gas fuelled by coal dust.

To mark the anniversary and honour the memory of the lives lost, flags located at City of Nanaimo facilities will be lowered to half-mast on Tuesday, May 3.

Visit the walk-through coalmine exhibit in the Nanaimo Museum to learn more about Nanaimo's coal mining history and this tragic accident. Find more information on this award-winning exhibit here: www.nanaimomuseum.ca/permanent-exhibit/the-coal-mine.

Key Points

·       On May 3, 1887, 150 miners lost their lives, leaving a massive effect on the community.

·       Flags will fly at half mast on May 3 in memory of the lives lost in the No. 1 Esplanade Mine disaster.

·       A memorial plaque to remember the miners who died from the explosions stands in place of the site of the No. 1 Esplanade mine on Milton Street (1151 Milton Street).

"We will all take a moment on May 3 to remember the many lives lost in this tragic event," says Mayor Leonard Krog

·       In 2015, Council passed a resolution to lower the flags at all City of Nanaimo facilities to half-mast on May 3 in memory of the lives lost in the Nanaimo coal mining disaster of 1887.

·       Nanaimo Museum's Coal Mining Exhibit

April 28, 2022

Being prepared is important and something the whole family can do. As Emergency Preparedness Week approaches, the City of Nanaimo is encouraging residents to prepare for an emergency by making a kit, drafting up a plan and signing up for the City's Voyent Alert! Emergency Notification System.

Natural disasters may be beyond our control, but there are ways to reduce the risk and the impact of whatever emergency we might face - whether natural or human-induced. By taking a few simple steps, you can become better prepared to face a range of emergencies – anytime, anywhere. It is important to:

• Know the risks – Although the consequences of disasters can be similar, knowing the risks specific to our community and our region can help you better prepare.
• Make a plan – It will help you and your family know what to do
• Get an emergency kit – During an emergency, we will all need some basic supplies. We may need to get by without power or tap water.

From May 1 to May 7, the City of Nanaimo encourages residents to take concrete actions to be better prepared. Experience has shown that individual preparedness goes a long way to help people cope better - both during and after a major disaster. It can make a world of difference.

For more information about how you can prepare for emergencies and to make a kit, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/emergencykit or the Province of BC website www.preparedbc.ca.

Link to Strategic Plan: Providing information and resources for residents to be prepared for an emergency supports a livable community.

• Emergency Preparedness Week is a national event coordinated by Public Safety Canada.
• The City of Nanaimo is encouraging residents to make a kit during this week or check kits that have already been prepared.
• Voyent Alert! can send emergency information a variety of ways. Residents can choose to receive a push notifications through the Voyent Alert! smartphone app, an email, text or a phone call are also options should there be a local emergency impacting City of Nanaimo residents. Visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/alerts to learn more and sign up.

"It's everyone's responsibility to be prepared for an emergency. By taking a few simple steps, you can become better prepared to face a range of emergencies – anytime, anywhere. There's no time like today to get your emergency kit together."

Leonard Krog
Mayor, City of Nanaimo

• City of Nanaimo Call Alert System, Voyent Alert!
• Personal Preparedness

Council has instituted a Neighbourhood Association Supports Policy along with a $10,000 annual Neighbourhood Grant Program, which will begin in 2023.

An initial review of neighbourhood associations began in February 2020 where Council was interested in the organizational status of neighbourhood associations and the City's relationship with these groups. The discussions led to gathering input from existing associations, reviewing other municipality's engagement models and collecting feedback through a community survey. After thorough analysis and consultation, a policy was created establishing organizational criteria and identifying ways to support the associations, including funding opportunities.

The policy states the City of Nanaimo will support neighbourhood associations that meet and maintain the following organizational criteria:

• Have an elected executive that meets on a regular basis;
• Have a membership structure;
• Hold an annual general meeting, and provide a copy of the minutes to the City;
• Keep minutes for executive and general membership meetings;
• Engage with its membership for input prior to responding to City development referrals; and
• Provide periodic updates to members related to the activities of the group.

More information on active neighbourhood associations in your area, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/neighbourhoodassociations

Link to Strategic Plan: Proactively planning for Nanaimo’s growth and focusing on community infrastructure to support an inclusive, healthy, safe and desirable place to live.

The City of Nanaimo has established a new tourism body to attract visitors. Officially incorporated and ready to launch with a first board meeting in mid-May, the Tourism Nanaimo Society (Tourism Nanaimo) is a non-profit marketing and management organization that works with industry stakeholders, governments and others to develop and market Nanaimo as a destination for visitors.

At the April 25, Nanaimo City Council meeting, Tourism Nanaimo’s Interim Executive Director Jenn Houtby-Ferguson presented the findings of preliminary market research and an overview of Nanaimo’s strengths as a tourist destination.

Later in the same meeting, the Nanaimo Hospitality Association (NHA) presented their findings to Council on hotel bookings and the campaigns they used to attract visitors. A final presentation from consultant Jacquelyn Novak outlined a sports tourism strategy for Council endorsement.

Together, the three presentations showed the collaboration that underpins the future of tourism marketing and promotion in Nanaimo.
With Council’s endorsement of the Sports Tourism Strategy, the City, NHA and Tourism Nanaimo will work closely together to implement the plan to attract visitors to Nanaimo for tournaments and related events.

Link to Strategic Plan: Tourism is a strong economic driver for The City of Nanaimo, and support's Council's commitment to prioritizing Economic Health.

Tourism Nanaimo has the right leadership, funding and mandate to really put us on the map in a way that celebrates our unique story and the wonderful, natural and social amenities we have to offer."

Leonard Krog
Mayor, City of Nanaimo

The City of Nanaimo is pleased to present the 2022 Youth Week celebrations. Activities are planned from May 1 to May 7, all with the intent of celebrating youth in Nanaimo.

Highlights include youth toonie skates, a hike to Sugarloaf Mountain, a free swim (Lions Free Swim) at Nanaimo Aquatic Centre and a special "May the Fourth Be with You" Star Wars skate at Nanaimo Ice Centre. A full schedule of events can be found on the YOUth Nanaimo Facebook page and on the City of Nanaimo website, www.nanaimo.ca.

Link to Strategic Plan: Youth Week supports the Livability pillar of the City of Nanaimo's strategic plan. The events provide recreational opportunities to young people while also helping to engage and connect youth in Nanaimo.

Since taking office, Nanaimo City Council has focused on the effects of homelessness, mental illness and drug addiction on the community, especially downtown. Through REIMAGINE NANAIMO, the City heard clearly that the community wants a flourishing, vibrant downtown that is safer for all users throughout the day and evening.

Depending on the outcome of discussions at City Council next Monday, both of those visions may move closer to reality.

The Downtown Safety Action Plan, presented to the Finance and Audit Committee on April 20, outlines a new, coordinated, proactive approach to public safety, and may set the stage for a revitalization of Nanaimo’s core business and entertainment district.

The Plan, commissioned by Council last year, was created by Neilson Strategies and includes new and augmented resources, programs and services. For the first time, Nanaimo City staff on patrol downtown would include Community Safety Officers (CSOs) whose role would be proactive, rather than complaints-based, and focused on conflict resolution and relationships with businesses, organizations and individuals.

The Plan recommendations include hiring CSOs, adding two more Community Clean Teams, using Parks Ambassadors (2022 only), increasing downtown parkade cleaning, adding Downtown Ambassadors and undertaking an assessment of public spaces to improve safety.

Implications of the new safety plan for the 2022-2026 Financial Plan will be a tax increase of 0.7 per cent in 2022 and 1.2 per cent in 2023. Council will vote on the Downtown Safety Action Plan on April 25.

Link to Strategic Plan: A focused effort to address public safety concerns supports Council's priorities of Governance Excellence, Economic Health and Livability.

Nanaimo Public Works staff and contractors will be out cleaning the City's inventory of stormwater catch basins beginning next week. WATCH THE VIDEO

Starting in the Duke Point area, crews will work their way north on the east side to Dickinson Road then back south on the west side of the city to Cinnabar Valley. This work involves large equipment and staff working on the road. Please approach with caution and obey traffic control personnel's directions. The annual catch basin cleaning program is expected to be complete by August 2022.

Link to Strategic Plan: The catch basin cleaning program promotes the City's priorities of Governance Excellence and Environmental Responsibility through the regular maintenance and inspection of City assets and diverting pollutants from waterways.

Backyard burning is by permit only in April and November

Nanaimo Fire Rescue reminds residents that backyard burning is banned except by permit. Residents who are planning a backyard burn must familiarize themselves with the Fire Bylaw and the required conditions to obtain a permit. There is no fee this year; however, specific conditions must be met to obtain a permit. 

Burning permits may be issued for one residential burn pile on a lot that is one (1) acre in size or greater or lots located on Protection Island, under the following conditions:
* A burning permit is required and can be obtained by calling the Nanaimo Fire Rescue Department at 250-753-7311 (Monday - Friday 8:30 am - 4:30 pm).
* Burning is only permitted from sunrise to sunset, Fridays and Saturdays, during the months of April and November.
* Fire must be on the property owned by the individual who wants to burn.
* The permittee shall keep a competent person at all times in charge of such fire until such time as the fire is completely extinguished.
* Only organic yard waste materials such as garden refuse and prunings may be burned.
* Burning of wooden construction material, stumps, land clearing materials/debris or household garbage is not permitted.
* Fires shall not exceed 1.5 meters across in size; shall be hand fed and shall be located at least 3 meters from any combustibles.

Permits are not valid on days when the venting index is fair or poor, the category must be good. The venting index can be found online at: www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/epdpa/venting/

For more information, residents may contact General Fire Information at 250-753-7311.

KEY POINTS

* Permits are available only in April and November and can be obtained by calling Nanaimo Fire Rescue at 250-753-7311 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

* No fees are required but residents must review the conditions and qualify in order to obtain a permit.

* Burning is only allowed when the vending index is rated good.

"We encourage you to review the burning regulations and obtain the proper permit to prevent unnecessarily tying up the Fire Department at unpermitted, non-emergency backyard fires," said Fire Chief Tim Doyle.

Venting Index
https://cnan.ca/36SNwa8

Nanaimo Burning Regulations & Permits
https://cnan.ca/2CZJJXT

Mayor Leonard Krog

Annual State of the Nanaimo Economy Report presented to Council

A surge in housing starts last year and a projected shift to a younger population are just some of the reasons for optimism in the City of Nanaimo’s recent economic report. The annual State of the Nanaimo Economy report shows that home sales and prices reached record levels, and new housing starts increased by 50 per cent in 2021. For the first time, the 25 – 44-year-old age group will grow faster than the 65-plus cohort in the coming decade.

“Nanaimo’s economy is doing well, and as more and more people discover us, they are voting with their feet to live, work and invest here,” said Mayor Leonard Krog, “It is why we are pushing ahead with a re-imagined downtown streetscape, and it is why we are about to launch a new economic development group and have re-invigorated our tourism agency."

Nanaimo was in the top five cities in Canada for population growth last year, drawing newcomers from across the country and within the province. With an unemployment rate below the national and provincial averages, and a lively job market, Nanaimo is a good place to look for work.

“The challenge for the city now is to keep up with the infrastructure to serve the needs of a younger demographic, whether that is more nightlife, recreation or housing. Fortunately, we are in the final phases of our integrated city plan, Nanaimo Re-Imagined and people have really stepped up to make their views known," said Krog, "The values and goals we heard in the public engagement process will guide Council as it makes decisions on the projects and policies we will need to meet our needs within the limits of our natural environment.” 

For more information on the report and economic development in Nanaimo, visit the Economic Development section on www.nanaimo.ca.

New regulations have come into effect for operators of short-term rentals (STR) and bed and breakfasts in the City. Council has adopted amendments to the zoning and off-street parking bylaw that regulates and permits short-term rentals. Included in the changes is the requirement for a business licence. 

The changes come after a review relating to STRs and Bed and Breakfasts Zoning and Business Licence regulations. Through the review, Council confirmed that a business licence will be required for all short-term rental accommodation, including bed and breakfasts. 

To help inform prospective STR operators of zoning and bylaw regulations, building and fire safety information, relevant bylaw information (such as the Noise Control Bylaw) and other good neighbour practices, the City has published a Short-Term Rental Operator’s Guide. The guide will be available online and at the front counter of the City of Nanaimo’s Service and Resource Centre (411 Dunsmuir Street). 

For more information and to view the operator’s guide, visit www.nanaimo.ca.

Strategic Link: The Short-Term Rental review and operator’s guide was a recommendation of the Affordable Housing Strategy; implementing the Affordable Housing Strategy (short-term rentals and adaptable housing regulations) is included in the 2019-2022 Strategic Plan.

* To give STR operators time to familiarize themselves with the new regulations, the City will begin accepting Short Term Rental business licence applications on April 1, 2022.

* The Short Term Rental Operator's Guide is now available online and at the front counter of the Service and Resource Centre (411 Dunsmuir Street).

* On February 7, 2022, Council adopted amendments to the zoning and off-street parking bylaw to regulate and permit short-term rentals.

* Short-term rentals refers to the rental of a room or an entire residential dwelling unit on a temporary basis (i.e., less than 30 days) often through an online platform such as Airbnb, HomeAway, or Vacation Rentals By Owner (VRBO) and includes bed and breakfasts.

* The number of active short term rental listings in Nanaimo has ranged from 585 to 331 within the past two years (source: AirDNA).

See the Short Term Rental Operator's Guide here.

The City’s annual financial report for the year ending December 31, 2020 was awarded the Canadian Award for Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA).  The Canadian Award for Financial Reporting program was established to encourage municipal governments throughout Canada to publish high quality financial reports and to provide peer recognition and technical guidance for officials preparing these reports.

In order to be awarded a Canadian Award for Financial Reporting, a government unit must publish an easily readable and efficiently organized annual financial report, whose contents conform to program standards. Such reports should go beyond the minimum requirements of generally accepted accounting principles and demonstrate an effort to clearly communicate the municipal government’s financial picture, enhance an understanding of financial reporting by municipal governments, and address user needs.

“Our City is very fortunate to have such dedicated and talented staff who do an excellent job preparing complex financial reports in a way that can be clearly understood,” said Mayor Krog. “On behalf of Council, I applaud our Finance and Communications departments for this well-deserved award!”

The report has been judged by impartial Canadian Review Committee members to meet the high standards of the program, including demonstrating a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” designed to clearly communicate the municipality’s financial story and to motivate potential users and user groups to read the report.

2020 Annual Municipal Report

The City of Nanaimo's Engineering and Public Works department will begin its annual water main flushing program on March 14, 2022. Flushing is expected to start in the south end of Nanaimo and, while this program is underway, short periods of low pressure and discoloured water may be expected. Any discolouration in water residents may experience during the flushing program is temporary and not a health hazard.

For more information about the water main flushing program, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/waterflushing.

* Flushing will begin in south Nanaimo and move it's way north with an expected completion the week of May 1, 2022.

* City crews will flush water supply mains from the South Fork dam to the water treatment plant. Clean drinking water is flushed at a high velocity through water mains to ensure that all piping is refreshed and any minor sediment within the pipes is removed.

* If a change in water appearance such as discolouration is noticed, residents are asked to clear their water lines by running cold water until it runs clear. Any discolouration in water residents may experience during the flushing program is temporary and not a health hazard.

* Anyone with a weakened immune system should reference information on Island Health’s website.

"Nanaimo has some of the cleanest water around thanks to our water treatment plant. However some sediment can still collect over time requiring the water mains to be flushed. If you spot some discolouration in your water, just run the cold water tap until it clears."

  David Myles 
  Manager of Utilities 
  City of Nanaimo       

* Running cold water to clear any discolouration instead of hot water reduces energy usage. It also avoids trapping sediment in your hot water tank.

* In previous years, the City of Nanaimo’s Water Main Flushing Program washed out over 90 km of water supply mains and over 536 km of distribution water mains.

Water Main Flushing Program         
https://cnan.ca/2TflVEX

With a new year under way, the City reminds pet owners to renew their dog's licence. New license fees and charges have come into effect to align with the Animal Responsibility bylaw adopted in 2021. Fees for sterilized dogs will remain at $30 with a $5 discount for payments made before February 28 of the licencing year while the licence fee for unsterilized dogs is $60 with a $10 discount for early payments. 

Also new this year, is the ability for new residents or first time dog owners to apply for a dog licence online. In addition to online payments, dog licences and renewals can be purchased in person at the City of Nanaimo's Services and Resource Centre (411 Dunsmuir Street) and the Nanaimo Animal Shelter (1260 Nanaimo Lakes Road). New licences must be purchased in person, while renewals may be purchased in person or online at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/DogLicence.

* Dog licence renewal notices have been mailed out this week.

* A dog licence and accompanying identification tag are required for every dog in Nanaimo over the age of 12 weeks.

* Licences and renewals can be purchased in-person. Residents purchasing a tag or renewing in person must follow COVID protocols and wear a mask.

* One hundred per cent of the fees collected from dog licences go toward the costs of operating the Nanaimo Animal Shelter, including care and adoption.

"We want to keep our furry friends safe. An important step is to get or renew a dog licence. Not only are they instrumental in reuniting dogs with their owners, but 100% of dog licence fees collected go towards the costs of operating the Nanaimo Animal Shelter,"  Mayor Leonard Krog said.

Aquafit classes and
swimming lessons also starting

The main 25-metre tank at Beban Park Pool will reopen Jan. 17. In addition, aquafit classes will resume at both Beban Park Pool and Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, and a small set of winter swimming lessons will be available for registration.

The opening of the Beban Park main pool comes after a series of repairs were conducted. During that time, Nanaimo Aquatic Centre accommodated the vast majority of public swimming sessions and provided space for user groups and rentals. Now that both pools are fully operational, citizens can enjoy more swimming opportunities.

A short set of winter swimming lessons will be held until a full set can be offered in the spring. Available classes will be viewable online starting on Monday, January 17 with registration beginning on Wednesday, January 19.

To see the pool schedules that begin on January 17, please visit recreation.nanaimo.ca (drop in). Pre-registration is only required for aquafit classes. All other sessions do not require pre-registration.

There have been several improvements to Beban Pool, including new tiling in the washrooms, LED lighting upgrades, water-efficient taps and overall painting found throughout the facility. In additions, an accessibility audit was completed last year that should help the City of Nanaimo determine ways to enhance everyone's ability to access the pool amenities found at Beban Park.

For those who haven't visited Beban Park Pool in awhile, Eliot White-Hill, Kwulasultun, a Coast Salish artist, was commissioned by the City of Nanaimo to create large-scale murals that were unveiled last fall. These feature the movement of the dog salmon run and the ecosystems sustained by the herring run and the eelgrass. Creatures, including littleneck clams, sea lion, bald eagle, octopus, and others, appear in his designs. Interactive and interpretive signage with English and Hul’q’umi’num words, and a take-away guide is available to share information, language and stories related to the artwork.

Although both pools are open, Provincial Health Orders require that weight rooms remain closed until at least January 18, facility capacities be restricted to 50 percent, and everyone over the age of 12 provide proof of vaccination in order to participate or spectate. As health orders are updated, schedules and procedures will be adjusted. Due to the demand of aquafit classes, pre-registration is required up to 8 days in advance by calling our registration desk at 250-756-5200 or online at recreation.nanaimo.ca (register for a program, drop in).

Strategic Link: Providing opportunities to recreate supports a liveable community.

* Beban Pool's main 25-metre tank will open, along with the rest of Beban Pool's amenities on Monday, January 17.

* Aquafit classes at both Beban Park Pool and Nanaimo Aquatic Centre will resume on January 17 with mandatory pre-registration. Pre-registration is available by phone with a credit card at 250-756-5200 or online at recreation.nanaimo.ca.

* A short set of winter swimming lessons will be offered. Available classes will be online for viewing starting on Monday, January 17 with registration beginning on Wednesday, January 19.

"On behalf of council and staff, I thank members of our community for their patience as repairs at Beban Park pool were undertaken. With both pools being fully operational, we are happy that we can once again provide a wide variety of swimming opportunities for our citizens."

  Leonard Krog
  Mayor
  City of Nanaimo

Jan 12, 2022

The City of Nanaimo continues to adapt its processes due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Due to concerns regarding the highly infectious nature of the Omicron variant, all Council and Committee meetings for the month of January will be held virtually. In addition, Public Hearings that had been scheduled for January 20 and January 24 have been postponed until February. 

Staff continue to monitor public health orders and will re-evaluate the situation later this month to determine the best course of action for future Council and Committee meetings.  

As required by Legislation, the public are still able to attend these virtual meetings in person, to ask questions and/or appear as a registered delegation; however, the City strongly encourages the public to participate electronically if at all possible. Delegations are encouraged to join the meeting via Zoom rather than attend in person, and all meetings continue to be live-streamed and available for viewing on the City website at www.nanaimo.ca/meetings. 

For members of the public who wish to attend a meeting in person, please be advised that if maximum seating capacity is reached you will not be permitted to enter the meeting room. Masks are also required in all indoor public settings. Details on how to attend these virtual meetings in person is as follows:

**Council meetings**
* The public can attend in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre’s Shaw Auditorium, located at 80 Commercial Street. 

**Committee meetings** *(including Finance and Audit and Governance and Priorities Committee)*
* The public can attend in the Service and Resource Centre’s Boardroom, located at 411 Dunsmuir Street.

Strategic Link: Ensuring public safety and access for public participation in Council's decision-making process supports a priority of providing good governance.

KEY POINTS

* Council and Committee meetings for the month of January 2022 will be held virtually

* The Public Hearing dates scheduled for January 20 and 24 have been postponed

* Staff will continue to monitor and re-evaluate the situation later this month for future meetings

* Registered delegations are encouraged to attend meetings via Zoom, but public attendance is still permitted

"It is clear that the COVID-19 pandemic will still be with us for the foreseeable future, but thanks to modern technology and the ability to have meetings virtually, the work of Council carries on. We thank Staff for continuing to adapt during these unprecedented times by helping develop solutions that allow public participation to still take place in a manner that ensures safety is prioritized."

  Leonard Krog, Mayor
  City of Nanaimo

220111 – The City of Nanaimo will begin work on phase one of the Albert/Fourth Complete Street project this month. This first phase of the project will cover Fourth Street between Harewood Road and Pine Street. The project aims to increase the safety and comfort for people who walk, bike, take transit and drive along this corridor.

Upgrades will include new cycling and shared use facilities, new concrete sidewalks, improved transit stops, improved intersection crossings and replacement of underground water mains and storm sewers.

The Government of Canada contributed $750,000 to the project through the Canada Community-Building Fund.

To help with construction activities, Fourth Street will be closed 24 hours a day to vehicle traffic between Bruce Avenue and Pine Street. A detour using Fifth Street and Park Avenue will be set up to direct traffic around the work zone. Access will be provided for local residents and businesses within the construction area.

Construction work on Phase 1 is expected to be completed before Summer 2022. For the latest project information, please visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/AlbertFourth

Construction on Phase 2 between Pine Street and Milton Street is expected to start in the summer of 2022.

Strategic Link: Environmental Responsibility, Livability, Excellence in Governance

KEY POINTS

* Fourth Street will be closed between Bruce Avenue and Pine Street. Detours will be in effect for the duration of the project.

* Phase 1, covering Fourth Street between Harewood Road and Pine Street, will start construction in January 2022 and be completed by summer 2022.

* Complete Streets are designed for everyone and will increase the safety and comfort for people who walk, bike, take transit and drive.

QUOTES

"Whether they walk, bike, drive or use public transportation, Canadians need to be able to get to their destination in a timely and safe fashion. Our Government is funding, in partnership with the City of Nanaimo, the upgrades to the Fourth Street streetscape that will benefit all commuters and encourage active modes of transportation."

  Patrick Weiler, MP for West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky Country on behalf of
  Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities
  Government of Canada

"Work is beginning soon to make Fourth Street safer for pedestrians, cyclists, transit users, and drivers. I'm glad our government can fund better sidewalks, bus stops and intersections, to make commuting more climate-friendly."

  Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo, on behalf of
  Josie Osborne, Minister of Municipal Affairs
  Province of B.C.

"The Canada Community Building Fund is playing a critical role in the renewal of infrastructure in B.C.’s communities. The City of Nanaimo’s approach to “complete streets” is providing a comprehensive upgrade of facilities above ground and below. I am very pleased to see continued federal and provincial support for investments in the infrastructure local governments develop and maintain."

  Laurey Anne Roodenburg
  President
  Union of B.C. Municipalities

"Council and I are excited to see this project take off. This is an important route connecting VIU with downtown and, when finished, will accommodate all types of commuters comfortably. In addition, funding from the Canada Community-Building Fund will offset some of the costs to taxpayers, making this project a win-win!"

  Leonard Krog
  Mayor
  City of Nanaimo

QUICK FACTS

* Locar Industries Ltd. of Nanaimo was awarded the construction contract.

* The project includes 540 metres of water main upgrades, 470 metres of storm sewer upgrades, 470 metres of new sidewalks and 900 metres of new buffered cycle lanes.

* The project construction budget is $1.8 million, and the Government of Canada contributed $750,000 to the project through the Canada Community-Building Fund.

Albert / Fourth Complete Street Phase 1 Project Web Page
https://www.nanaimo.ca/goto/AlbertFourth

Mayor Leonard Krog

22-01-11 – Nanaimo Mayor Leobard Krog is one of 13 mayors representing more than 55 per cent of British Columbians are again calling on the Provincial Government for the urgent implementation of complex care housing solutions to support the most vulnerable residents in their communities. Today they are releasing a video to reiterate their call.

Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jNeHreeChlQ

Since being formed in the summer of 2020, the mayors have been in conversations with the Ministries of Mental Health and Addiction, Health, Housing, Municipal Affairs, Social Development and Poverty Reduction, and Justice, advocating to see appropriate housing and supports for people with complex needs to be operational in a matter of months, not years.

As a unified voice on critical issues facing urban British Columbia communities, the BC Urban Mayors’ Caucus (BCUMC) is a non-partisan group of mayors from Abbotsford, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Kamloops, Kelowna, Nanaimo, New Westminster, Prince George, Richmond, Saanich, Surrey, Vancouver and Victoria.

Urging the Province to take immediate action, the video highlights the strain that leaving those with complex needs out on the streets is having on our communities and on the vulnerable people requiring care. 

“We know the Province is acting on a complex care housing framework, and we appreciate that we were invited to participate in the early formative conversations as the Province developed the model of care. We are hopeful that the provincial government will make an announcement soon,” said Lisa Helps, Mayor of Victoria and BCUMC Co-Chair. “We can’t stress enough how urgently our communities need this complex care in place.”

Residents with complex needs have overlapping mental health, substance use, trauma and acquired brain injuries and they are often left to experience homelessness. They do not fit into current supportive housing models, they do not fit within long-term healthcare systems, and if they commit crimes, they do not fit within the overloaded justice system which perpetuates a catch and release cycle.

“Together each of our communities are on the frontlines experiencing the same impact of gaps in the health, housing and justice system,” said Colin Basran, Mayor of Kelowna and BCUMC Co-Chair. “Our most vulnerable are falling through the cracks. Municipalities have invested in supportive housing, funded more police and bylaw officers and created policies to increase inclusion in our communities and yet more needs to be done and for that we need the Province’s support.”

Local retailers, restaurants and hotels, who have already been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, are also experiencing the frontline impacts of the gaps, with increased erratic behaviour, open drug use, crime and theft occurring outside their place of business.

The BC Urban Mayors’ Caucus Blueprint for British Columbia’s Urban Future, outlines four key priorities for urban communities across the province:

1. Mental Health, Substance Use and Treatment
2. Affordable Housing
3. Public Transit
4. A New Fiscal Framework

To Learn more, visit www.bcurbanmayorscaucus.ca.

220111 – The BC Chamber of Commerce and Business Improvement Areas of BC support  the BC Urban Mayors’ Caucus call for complex care housing.

“Access to housing is critical for the health of our communities. Part of the solution is more complex care options for those who require extra support. As a result of the pandemic, the need for more complex care options is greater than ever before. Cutting red tape to develop tailored housing options with urgency, is therefore critical,” said Fiona Famulak of the B.C. Chambers.

“Business Improvement Areas of BC (BIABC), which represents more than 50 business communities across the province, is supportive of the work of the BC Urban Mayor’s Caucus to find innovative solutions like complex care housing to restore the health and wellbeing of our communities for all. Increasing homelessness, street disorder, property crime, violence, mental health and addiction-related issues have reached a critical point in our downtowns, main streets and commercial districts. We all need to work together to protect our communities and those most vulnerable,” said Teri Smith of the BIABC.

Along with the BC Urban Mayors’ Caucus, both of our organizations urge the Province to move quickly on this urgent issue for our business members and our communities.

The City of Nanaimo continues to support our community's most vulnerable populations during this difficult time of snow and cold weather. The City attempts to balance the inevitable necessity for homeless individuals to shelter with the interests of other residents and the protection of public lands and facilities by providing an array of supportive services including facilities and spaces for shower programs, public toilets, warming centers, temporary and permanent housing. It is well recognized that there is insufficient service capacity, so the City permits sheltering in a number of undeveloped parkland spaces where people can shelter overnight.

Recently, Council approved funding for the establishment and operation of a temporary daytime extreme cold weather space at Caledonia Park which began operations on December 27, 2021. Operated by the Nanaimo 7-10 Club Society, the cold-weather space is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on days when cold weather conditions are deemed severe enough to present a substantial threat to the life or health of vulnerable persons. 

The City addressed misinformation in the community regarding vulnerable peoples that were dispersed from an encampment under the Bastion Street Bridge, and in the adjacent Bastion Street Parkade. The recent winter storm with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures saw emergency shelters filling to capacity, and a small group of unsheltered individuals set up tents under the Bastion Street Bridge adjacent to the City-owned Bastion Street Parkade.  

Enforcement officers did not disrupt this gathering through the most inclement weather. Instead, they requested those present to refrain from moving into the parkade facility, lighting fires or accumulating large quantities of materials, as they would be required to take down and remove their temporary shelters when weather improved.  

Unfortunately, the situation deteriorated quickly through the holidays. The encampment grew in numbers to 30 or more individuals. People settled through three levels of the parkade and in the staircases, rendering them inaccessible to pedestrian traffic. Fires were set inside the parkade and in the stairwells and five propane tanks were removed. In addition, a number of parking ticket kiosks were taken out of service after they were extensively damaged and had the power cables severed.

Parking pass holders reported being obstructed and harassed and expressed concern for the safety of their vehicles. Maintenance staff were unable to access areas of the parkade to clean up increasing accumulations of garbage, graffiti and human waste. Businesses in close proximity reported concerns for the safety of their staff and clients.  

Weather conditions improved after the New Year, and enforcement officers directed individuals to leave the parkade facility on Sunday, January 2 (Public Nuisance Bylaw 7267 prohibits entry or remaining in a City parkade except for the purpose of parking or removing a vehicle from a parking facility) and everyone was given notice that City crews would be attending early the next week to clean up the entire area. They were directed to leave the parkade again on Tuesday, January 4, and advised that all shelters would have to be packed up and removed for a clean up the following day. RCMP officers also went through the parkade advising everyone that the encampment would be closed in the morning.

City sanitation work crews began the clean up around 8 a.m. the morning of Wednesday, January 5, with the assistance of police and bylaw services, giving everyone ample opportunity to pack up and remove their belongings. Clean team staff distributed dozens of garbage bags, and the campers packed up waste material and unwanted items that were loaded into the truck.  

Five propane tanks, four shopping carts, and a large container of discarded needles were collected during the clean-up. The clean-up proceeded without incident. 

“Council absolutely sympathizes with individuals experiencing homelessness in our community, especially during extreme weather events such as what we have been experiencing the past two weeks. However, we also have a duty to other City residents and business owners to ensure that our City is safe, and our public lands and facilities are accessible.

"The misinformation we have seen regarding the recent dismantling of the encampment in the Bastion Street Parkade is both inaccurate and unfair. Bylaw officers, RCMP and City sanitation crews have an extremely difficult job and do excellent work in balancing the needs of everyone in our community. We cannot stand by idly and allow actions that threaten public property, and the safety of our community, to take place.” 

-Mayor Leonard Krog

Nanaimo received up to 30 cm of snow overnight, which has impacted City roads, curbside collection services and recreation facilities. On the roads, City crews have been able to clear snow from priority 1 routes such as main roads and emergency routes and are now focusing on priority 2 and 3 routes such as secondary roads.

All City snow clearing trucks are out along with backhoes to clear the compact snow and ice from secondary roads, culs-de-sac and dead ends that accumulated from last week's storms. The public is encouraged to stay off the roads to help give plows time to clear the roads. If travel is required, be prepared for winter driving conditions (slow down, leave extra room, watch for pedestrians) and have a winter car emergency kit. 

City recreation facilities are closed for the day and all recreation programs and facility rentals have been cancelled. Recreation patrons, rental groups and program registrants can stay up to date on the City's Parks, Recreation and Culture page at: www.nanaimo.ca/parks-recreation-culture

Garbage and recycling collection for January 6, 2022 has been cancelled. Due to the extended delays in resuming curbside collection service, the RDN is offering City of Nanaimo residents free drop-off of their curbside waste at the Regional Landfill in Cedar (1105 Cedar Rd). Residents using the free drop-off will need to provide identification and their address at the facility scale house. The free drop off will be available for affected areas until curbside service is fully restored. Please wait until road conditions are safe before taking garbage to the landfill.

An alert was issued this morning to residents registered for the City's emergency notification system, Voyent Alert! advising of the hazardous road conditions and recreation facility closures. In the event of other wide-scale impacts, another alert will be sent out. Residents can register for Voyent Alert! by following the instructions at www.nanaimo.ca/goto/alerts.

Please help pedestrians travel through Nanaimo safely. Property owners and tenants (residential and businesses) are responsible for clearing snow and ice from the sidewalks in front of their property. For driver safety and plow efficiency, please avoid shovelling snow onto the streets.

Snow is expected to turn into rain of up to 20 mm later today, which will further affect the roads and create the potential for localized flooding. City crews are out clearing as many catch basins and drains as possible, but homeowners and businesses are asked to help prevent flooding by clearing ones in front of their properties. If flooding occurs, sand and sand bags for filling are available at the Public Works yard (bring a shovel and ties). If possible, please wait until road conditions are safe before visiting Public Works. To report flooding, please call Public Works 24-hour hotline at 250-758-5222.

The City of Nanaimo understands ongoing frustrations over the impacts to roads and City services and thanks all residents for their patience and community-mindedness in helping out others during this time. 

Stay up to date with conditions on www.nanaimo.ca and on social media (@CityofNanaimo on Facebook and Twitter). For up-to-date information on public transit, follow @RDN_Transit on Twitter. Please also listen to local radio stations the Wave 102.3 or Wolf 106.9.

Strategic Link: Keeping our community safe is an important part of Livability and a responsibility of Governance Excellence.

* Nanaimo's crews have been operating 24/7 and all available snow clearing equipment is on the roads. In addition, the City has acquired extra backhoes to clear compact snow and ice accumulated from last week's storms.

* City recreation facilities are closed and recreation programs are cancelled for Thursday, January 6, 2022.

* Garbage and recycling collection is cancelled for January 6, 2021. When the roads are safe to travel on, residents can drop off their curbside waste at the RDN landfill for free of charge until collection resumes to normal operations.

* An alert was sent out this morning through the City's emergency alert system, Voyent Alert! advising residents of hazardous road conditions and recreation facility closures.

"Winter just keeps coming, Nanaimo and I know it is frustrating to not be able to go about your daily lives with ease. All available City resources have been out clearing roads and trails to try to get you back to normal. Thank you for your continued patience and help as we dig ourselves out...again."

  Leonard Krog
  Mayor
  City of Nanaimo

220105 – Curbside collection resumed Tuesday, but with the ice and snow, collection this week will be moving at a slower pace than usual. Due to snow and ice build up creating slick and sometimes narrow roadways, pickup will only happen where it is safe to do so. The City recognizes the need for residents to be safe as well; if you don’t feel safe taking your carts to the curb, please don’t! And please walk carefully if you do bring your carts to the curb. 

For residents with missed collection this week, or for residents that choose to keep their carts in for safety, the City will accommodate missed collection. Residents with missed recycling collection will be able to put extra recycling out on their next scheduled recycling collection day. Similarly, for missed garbage collection, residents will be able to put an extra bag of garbage out for pickup on their next scheduled garbage collection day (one extra bag per account).

When putting out extra garbage on your next garbage pickup day, please place your bag 1 meter to the side or behind the black cart (not in front). An extra garbage bag can be any size as long as it would fit into your black cart. 

When putting out extra recyclables on your next recycling day, please place them in an easy-to-empty container or box that is the same size or smaller than your blue cart, and place this 1 meter behind or beside your blue cart when you take it to the curbside for pickup.

The City continues to monitor road conditions and will be updating the City website and the Nanaimo Recycles app (available on Google Play and the Apple App Store). https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/garbage-recycling/garbage

While we can’t control the weather, the City does realize that this is all extremely inconvenient. Thank you for your patience, Nanaimo!

January 1, 2022

220102 – Nanaimo was hit with the heaviest snowfall of the season this week with the possiblilty for more snow, and even rain, in the forecast over the coming days.

City crews have been clearing snow focusing on priority routes such as main roads and emergency routes. With the break in snowfall, they have been focused on secondary routes and, if it doesn't snow again, will stay on secondary routes and cul-de-sacs and dead end roads. Winter driving conditions continue on Nanaimo roads with packed snow and ice surfaces on main routes and secondary routes. Motorists are reminded to drive with extreme care, stay well back from snowplows and other vehicles and avoid driving unless necessary. 

In City parks and facilities, crews are out clearing walkways into City buildings, downtown sidewalks with City-owned properties (including Maffeo Sutton Park) and the E&N Trail as first priorities. The public is reminded that trails, boardwalks, bridges, stairs and playground equipment can become slippery and hazardous when there is snow and ice. Please take care and walk with caution through the City's parks.

To report any concerns or issues in Nanaimo's parks and trails, please contact Nanaimo Parks & Recreation at 250-756-5200 or email parksandrecreation@nanaimo.ca. 

Please help pedestrians travel through Nanaimo safely. Property owners and tenants (residential and businesses) are responsible for clearing snow and ice from the sidewalks in front of their property. 

Anticipated rainfall on top of snow increases the potential for localized flooding and flooding in and around homes. Residents are asked to help prevent flooding by clearing any catch basins or storm drains in front of their homes and businesses. If flooding occurs, sand and sand bags for filling (bring a shovel and ties) are available at the Public Works yard. To report flooding, please call Public Works 24-hour hotline at 250-758-5222. 

Garbage/Recycling collection has been cancelled for December 31 through January 3. Collection is anticipated to resume on January 4 and will follow the 2022 Collection Calendar. To accommodate missed recycling collection, residents will be able to put extra recycling out on their next scheduled recycling collection day. Similarly, for missed garbage collection, residents will be able to put an extra bag of garbage out for pickup on their next scheduled garbage collection day (one extra bag per account). Download the free Nanaimo Recycles app for up to date information on curbside collection. Find links to the app on the [Garbage and Recycling Calendar](https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/garbage-recycling/garbage-calendars) page on the City website. 

Warming centres are open Cold weather day-use spaces are open at:

* Caledonia Park (110 Wall Street), open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. only when a cold weather event is occurring. Operated by the Nanaimo 7-10 Society
* 489 Wallace Street, open 7 days a week from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Operated by the Canadian Mental Health Association.
* 380 Terminal Avenue, open 7 days a week from 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Operated by Risebridge.

For more information on services and supports for Nanaimo’s vulnerable population, visit www.nanaimo.ca/goto/supportsandservices.

Stay up to date with conditions on www.nanaimo.ca, Twitter feed (@cityofnanaimo) and [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/cityofnanaimo) page. For up-to-date information on public transit, follow @RDN_Transit on Twitter. Please also listen to our local radio stations the Wave 102.3 or Wolf 106.9. 

Visit our [Snow and Ice Control](https://www.nanaimo.ca/transportation-mobility/snow-and-ice-control) page for information on the City's response to snow and what residents and commuters can do to stay safe.

* Drivers are reminded to use caution when approaching traffic signals and stop signs; allow extra time and distance when stopping; give ample room for snow clearing equipment when it is out on the road; and please do not attempt to pass equipment and crews when they are working.

* The City's priority for snow clearing sees major roads, including emergency and bus routes, plowed first, followed by residential areas with collector roads, followed by culs-de-sac and dead ends.

* Residents can also ensure the areas around the outside of their homes are free of snow, ice and debris to prevent potential flooding. Please consider your neighbours needs in the event they are elderly or may require assistance clearing their sidewalks and catch basins/storm drains.

* The City encourages residents to be prepared for severe winter weather by gathering essentials, such as food, medications, personal needs and other critical supplies, and have them on hand in the case of power outages or the weather prevents them from leaving their homes.

"The air is fresh, the snow has been brilliant and powdery, and it was a postcard, picture-perfect Christmas in Nanaimo," says Mayor Leonard Krog. "As much of a gift as the snow has been though, winter weather brings with it many challenges, slippery conditions and a necessary call for caution. Please be careful out there, Nanaimo."

QUICK FACTS

* To report a concern or make a suggestion regarding snow and ice control, please contact the City of Nanaimo Public Works department at 250-758-5222 or public.worksinfo@nanaimo.ca.

* Property owners and occupants are reminded to remove snow and ice from sidewalks within 24 hours of snowfall ending.

LINKS
Snow and Ice Control information page
https://cnan.ca/3le6da9

Garbage and Recycling
https://cnan.ca/2LVQiLh

Services and Support
https://cnan.ca/3HrastI

220103 – For everyone’s safety while we face our current winter road conditions, all scheduled curbside garbage, recycling and organics collection is now cancelled until Tuesday, January 4, 2022.

With a change in the weather forecast for this weekend and efforts still underway to clear the roads of accumulated snow, all collection (including the previously rescheduled weekend collection) is cancelled for all routes.

Scheduled collection will resume on Tuesday, January 4, following the 2022 Collection Calendar.

To accommodate missed recycling collection, residents will be able to put extra recycling out on their next scheduled recycling collection day. Similarly, for missed garbage collection, residents will be able to put an extra bag of garbage out for pickup on their next scheduled garbage collection day (one extra bag per account).

Collection staff will be physically tossing extra garbage and recycling. When putting out extra garbage on your next garbage pickup day, please place garbage in a tied garbage bag one metre to the side or behind the black cart (not in front). An extra garbage bag can be any size as long as it would fit into your black cart. 

When putting out extra recyclables on your next recycling day, please place them in an easy-to-empty container or box that is the same size or smaller than your blue cart, and place this one metre behind or beside your blue cart when you take it to the curbside for pickup.

The City continues to monitor road conditions and will be updating the City website and the Nanaimo Recycles app (available on Google Play and the Apple App Store). https://www.nanaimo.ca/city-services/garbage-recycling/garbage

Strategic Link: Keeping our community safe is an important part of Livability and a responsibility of Governance Excellence.

KEY POINTS

* For safety, due to our current winter road conditions, all scheduled curbside garbage, recycling and organics collection is now cancelled until Tuesday, January 4, 2022.

* To accommodate missed recycling collection, residents will be able to put extra recycling out on their next scheduled recycling collection day. Similarly, for missed garbage collection, residents will be able to put an extra bag of garbage out for pickup on their next scheduled garbage collection day.

"As beautiful as this snowfall has been, it’s brought with it an abundance of inconvenience. Curbside collection is the latest challenge for our crews, and with slippery roads and the great potential for icy roads this weekend, well - no one wants a 25 ton truck sliding out of control on our streets. Thanks for your patience, Nanaimo!"

  Leonard Krog
  Mayor
  City of Nanaimo