May 20 and 26, 2025 - Council Highlights

From the meetings held on May 20 and 26, 2025

Mayor's Report

On May 17, Mayor Pranger attended the grand opening for the Harrison Hot Springs Marina, now owned and operated by the Sqéwqel Development Corporation, the economic arm of Seabird Island First Nation. Mayor Pranger congratulated Seabird Island Band and wishes them well in their venture.

Council Report

On May 22, Councillor Post attended the celebration of life for Walter John Dyck who was an Agassiz-Harrison Drainage Committee member for many years and who chaired the Chilliwack Agricultural Commission. Councillor Post commended Walter's view on life which was to try to leave everything better than how he found it, noting that if we all shared that sentiment the world would be a better place.

BC Transit Fare Review - Delegation

On May 20, Rob Ringma the Senior Manager of Government Relations, and Midhat Malik the Business Development Advisor for BC Transit presented Mayor and Council with the Fare Review for the Agassiz-Harrison and Hope Transit System. The review highlighted statistics, fares, BC Transit programs, fare adjustment options, as well as next steps.

BC Transit presented four different potential fare options and is seeking endorsement of the preferred option from each community partner (District of Kent, Village of Harrison Hot Springs, District of Hope, City of Chilliwack, and Fraser Valley Regional District) prior to presentation to the Board of the Fraser Valley Regional District later in July.

Mayor Pranger expressed her disappointment in receiving news that the proposed North Fraser route (between Agassiz and Mission) was not approved for implementation in 2026. She pointed out that this route is needed by the most underserved. Council approved sending a letter to BC Transit to convey their unanimous support of the expansion between Agassiz and Mission.

Agassiz Fall Fair and Corn Festival

Council unanimously approved the application from the Agassiz Agricultural and Horticultural Association for the Agassiz Fall Fair and Corn Festival Parade. The annual parade will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, beginning at 10:00 am.

To learn more about this event, or to register for the parade, please visit: https://www.agassizfallfair.com/parade-registration

Reflections of Belonging Art Exhibit

A self-guided interactive art exhibit will be open to the public in Multipurpose Room B at the Community Recreation and Cultural Centre (6660 Pioneer Avenue) during the following times:

• Friday, June 13: 1:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Saturday, June 14: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday, June 15: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

This exhibit invites participants to embark on a journey of introspection and exploration, challenging their understanding of identity, community, and the potential for meaningful social transformation. For more information follow the Community Recreation and Cultural Centre Facebook page.

Agricultural Waterways Restoration Strategy

Mayor and Council have endorsed the Agricultural Waterways Restoration Strategy (AWRS) which will provide guidance for future restoration activities in District waterways. This guide will work as a component of the District's Climate Action Plan to provide future projects a reference framework to align with existing funding sources, unlock internal grants, improve long-term maintenance burdens, provide clarity and consistency, reduce flooding frequency, and more.