Here’s a recap of the key decisions and announcements from Ladysmith’s March 4 council meeting.
Proclamation for World Down Syndrome Day
Acting Mayor Tricia McKay proclaimed March 21, 2025, as World Down Syndrome Day in Ladysmith, recognizing the contributions and potential of individuals with Down syndrome in the community.
Committee reports
Council reviewed the minutes from the Parks, Recreation & Culture Advisory Committee (Feb. 19) and the Public Arts Committee (Feb. 20).
Discussions included Rutti Park Plan updates. Three revised layout options are under review. A final version will be brought back to the public in the spring before being presented to council.
Construction staging area approved for 440 1st Ave.
Council approved a temporary use permit for 117 Gatacre St. to be used as a construction staging area for the redevelopment of 440 1st Ave. (the former Islander Hotel). The permit is valid for up to 24 months, with a monthly fee of $1,087 paid by the developer.
Twenty-eight parking spaces will be temporarily unavailable, but efforts are being made to reduce disruption.
The construction crane will have a zone control and anti-collision system to ensure safety.
Council thanked the residents of Ladysmith in advance for their patience with the unavoidable disruption around this project for the next year and emphasized the project’s economic benefits for downtown Ladysmith, including new commercial and residential space and job creation.
2025 public art banners selected
Council approved designs for the 2025 Community Public Art Banner Program, featuring submissions by artist Natasha Bartlett.
The selected banners, By the Sea and Along the Trail, will be installed throughout downtown Ladysmith.
Staff will explore options for a permanent information kiosk to provide details about the banners and their artists.
Financial Plan bylaw adopted
Council formally adopted Financial Plan Bylaw 2025, No. 2206, finalizing the town’s five-year financial plan.
Forrest Field Enhancement Society fundraising approved
Council approved a request from the Forrest Field Enhancement Society to raise funds for the implementation of the Lot 108 Park Plan.
The Forrest Field Enhancement Society is a community group dedicated to improving recreational facilities in Ladysmith. The society requested council approval to fundraise for the implementation of the Lot 108 Park Plan and to install a permanent donor recognition structure at Forrest Field, at no cost to the town.
Letter to premier on U.S. tariffs
Council directed staff to draft a letter to Premier David Eby and Minister of Forests Ravi Singh Parmar, urging swift action to support industries affected by recent U.S. tariffs. The letter will emphasize the need to assist businesses in finding new overseas markets.
Code of Conduct Signature Removal
Council received a submission from Councillor Marsh Stevens requesting the removal of his signature from the Council Code of Conduct. It was clarified that, while signing is not a legal requirement, the code remains in effect for all members regardless of whether they have signed it.
The next council meeting is scheduled for March 18, 2025.
