Highlights from the April 13, 2026 Council Meeting
Bishop Wild Bird Sanctuary
The District, working with the Bishop Wild Bird Sanctuary, has completed a Zoning Amendment that has rezoned the Sanctuary property from Urban Multi-Unit Residential Zone (R1) to Bishop Wild Bird Sanctuary Comprehensive Development Zone (CD-P1). The Bishop Wild Bird Sanctuary is a private nature reserve located in Coldstream and includes riparian, forest and grassland habitat, as well as 440 feet of shoreline on Kalamalka Lake. The Sanctuary provides habitat for birds to thrive in the wild and is open to the public and the rezoning will ensure the sanctuary is preserved for years to come. For more information about the Bishop Wild Bird Sanctuary and Foundation see: https://bishopwildbirdsanctuary.ca/
2026 Tax Rate Bylaw
The District gave three readings to Bylaw 1872, 2026 Tax Rates. This bylaw establishes the tax rates for properties in the District of Coldstream for 2026. Property taxes, including homeowner grant claims, are due by the end of day July 2, 2026. If not paid by the due date, a 10% penalty is applied as required by provincial legislation. Options for paying your property taxes can be found here: https://www.coldstream.ca/propertytaxes
Kidston Road Traffic Calming
Council has approved traffic calming measures for Kidston Road on either side of the ‘S’ curve located between Coldstream Creek Road and Kinloch Drive. This area has been prone to excessive speeding, verified through onsite data collection and speed related accidents. Up to $34,000 will be used to install two speed tables on either end of the ‘S’ curve and a level crosswalk with flashing pedestrian lights visible to drivers. Council is committed to providing improved safety and connectivity to the multi-use path which functions as a safe walking route to schools in the area. Funding for this project will come from the Canada Community Building Fund.
Grant Funds Approved – Volunteer and Composite Fire Departments Equipment and Training
The District has successfully applied for grant funding for their “Structure Fire Gear Decontamination Washer and Dryer” project which will provide necessary funding of up to $30,000 for the purchase of one gear washer and two gear dryers. Coldstream and Lavington Fire Halls will now have a gear washer and dryer decontaminate the gear worn when responding to incidents. Fire gear decontamination is essential for removing toxic contaminants from protective personal equipment (PPE), reducing cancer risks and the protective integrity of firefighter equipment. Proper decontamination prevents cross-contamination, extends gear lifespan, and ensures compliance with firefighting standards and WorkSafe requirements.