Council Highlights November 15 2023

From the meeting held on November 15, 2023

Mayor’s Update

The Mayor and Council attended the Remembrance Day ceremony on November 11^th, with Mayor Pranger laying a wreath on behalf of the District. Councillor Schwichtenberg remarked on the extremely moving ceremony and her gratitude for living in Canada. Mayor Pranger added that now more than ever, it is important to honour those who fought for our freedom, and to teach the younger generations about the sacrifices made by so many so that we could live freely as proud Canadians. She echoed Councillor Schwichtenberg’s sentiments of gratitude and thanked everyone who braved the cold temperatures and harsh winds to commemorate this important day.

On Monday, November 13^th, Mayor Pranger attended the funeral for long-time community resident Donald “Donnie” Theriault. She was pleased to see how many people came out to honour him and extended sincerest condolences to his friends and family.

FoodCycler Delegation

Ms. Farah Sheriffdeen and Ms. Brittany Clarke from the Food Cycle Science Corporation presented the District’s results for the FoodCycler Pilot Program survey. Highlights from the survey included an 84% response rate from the 50 program participants and of those who replied, a satisfaction rate of 100%. Ms. Sheriffdeen also pointed out that users ran their FoodCyclers an average of three times a week and diverted approximately 243 kilograms of food waste per household. When participants were asked if the District should continue to offer FoodCyclers to residents at low or no cost, as part of a food waste diversion program, nearly 90% said that they believe their friends and neighbours would be interested in participating.

Based on the overwhelmingly positive feedback from residents, Council approved a motion to either participate in the program again or do an expansion of the existing program, for up to double the District’s initial financial contribution of $5,000 towards offsetting the unit costs.

Residents will be updated on the status of the program once the details have been confirmed and in the meantime, people interested in learning more about the Food Cycle Science Corporation and their partnerships with Canadian municipalities can visit their site at: https://foodcyclescience.com/pages/municipal-solutions.

Thank you to everyone who participated in the pilot program! The delegates were impressed with the level of engagement and the constructive feedback provided. If all 50 units continue to be used three times a week for a year, then 12.1 metric tons of food waste will be diverted from the landfill!

Fraser Valley Conservancy Planting Update

On November 4^th, Councillor Schwichtenberg and a small group from the Fraser Valley Conservancy planted approximately 200 plants along the small Agassiz slough remnant, near the end of Morrow Road. Councillor Schwichtenberg highlighted the ecological importance of the area as an oasis for dragonflies, butterflies, and small animals to survive urban encroachment. The event was an especially interesting day for Councillor Schwichtenberg, as they were joined by six members of an Indian socio-charitable organization that focuses on disaster relief and mitigation. The six members of that organization who joined the planting party were experienced and enthusiastic planters and are aiming to reach their goal of each planting 50 trees a year. Councillor Schwichtenberg thanked them and everyone of participated for their hard work and is looking forward to the next event.

The Fraser Valley Conservancy has launched a Habitat Healer Ambassador Team in the District of Kent for, “…everyone interested in building thriving and resilient ecosystems in their community! Become part of the Habitat Healers team to receive free workshops, hands-on training, team merchandise, and the opportunity to join a dedicated group of people interested in conserving urban habitats!” To learn more or to join, please visit: https://fraservalleyconservancy.ca/programs/habitat-healers/.

Agassiz Fire Department Charitable Society Donation

In his report to Council, Councillor Watchorn commended the Agassiz Fire Department (AFD) Charitable Society for raising $30,000 towards the construction of the Lets’emot Regional Aquatic Centre. At its recent Annual General Meeting, members of the AFD spoke about the importance of having infrastructure like this in place for local children and Councillor Watchorn expressed his profound gratitude for all the great work the fire department does for our community.

If you would like to contribute too, please visit www.kentbc.ca/Fill_the_Pool/ for more information on current fundraising totals and ways to donate. A tax receipt will be provided for your generosity to help build the pool.

CPKC Holiday Train Returns

Councillor Spaeti is reminding everyone that the Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) Holiday Train returns to our community on December 17^th at 5:30 PM in Centennial Park. There will be food, drinks, and live performances by Tyler Shaw and Kiesza.

Mayor Pranger pointed out that the Agassiz Harrison Food Bank benefits from the event via donations of food and cash, and a contribution from CPKC - so we hope to see everyone there!

www.cpkcr.com/en/community/HolidayTrain

Winter Night Lights 2023

Winter Night Lights returns to Pioneer Park for another year! This year’s event will take place on December 8^th, from 4:30 to 8:30 PM and on December 9^th from 2:30 to 7:30 PM. Attractions will include a night market, food trucks, music, the Prospera mini train, hot chocolate at the Agassiz-Harrison Museum, and even a visit from Santa himself!

Residents of the District of Kent, Seabird Island, Sts’ailes, Cheam First Nation, and the Village of Harrison Hot Springs can start registering for gifts on November 21^st at 6:15 AM by calling the Community Recreation and Cultural Centre (CRCC) at 604-796-8891. Alternatively, they can also register in person at the CRCC on or after November 21^st.