•    #1 – Integrated Pest Management Strategy Presented The City’s Integrated Pest Management Task Force presented the Task Force’s recommendations in regards to the creation of an Integrated Pest Management Strategy that would lead to a reduction in the use of pesticides on public and private lands within the boundaries of the City of Fernie. The 12 member Task Force included Councillor Mary Giuliano, one staff member, a representative from Wildsight, the Fernie Golf and Country Club, Blackstone Golf Resort, Tembec, Elk Valley Coal, members of the public and representatives from local businesses.
The Task Force met over the past two years and heard from a variety of experts and stakeholders. The Task Force report and its recommendations will be posted on the City’s website and Council and staff will give further consideration to their implementation during budget deliberations in the Fall. The Task Force recommends a two pronged approach to implementation: public education and enforcement.
•    #2 – Board of Variance Members Reappointed
Council reappointed Michael Pennock, Troy MacLachlan and Grant Laird to the City of Fernie Board of Variance for another three year term commencing immediately. The Board has the authority to consider granting minor variances to applicants who allege that conforming to building and development related bylaws would cause them undue hardship. Positions on the Board are entirely voluntary as the Local Government Act prohibits compensation to Board members for the provision of their services.
•    #3 – Development Variance Permits Given Preliminary Approval – Council approved giving notice of its intention to issue Development Variance Permit No. DVP-151 at the July 23, 2007 Regular Council meeting for a structural addition to the residence located at 16 Park Crescent. If approved, the Permit will vary the minimum front yard setback for a new carport from 7.5 metres to 6 metres and the projection of the eave of the carport into the front yard setback from the maximum of 1.0 metre to 2.1 metres.
Council also approved giving notice of its intention to issue Development Variance Permit No. DVP-167 at the July 23, 2007 Regular Council meeting for the proposed redevelopment of a residence located at 622 5th Avenue. If approved, the Permit will vary the minimum front yard setback for the existing principal building from 7.5 metres to 5.3 metres, the maximum building height of the principal building for a small section of the turret roof only from 10 metres to 10.97 metres and the front yard projection for a 2.13 metre by 2.44 metre set of steps from 1.2 metres to 3.6 metres.
Persons who feel their interest in property may be affected by the issuance of Development Variance Permit 151 or Development Variance Permit 167 have the right and opportunity to express their views to Council orally or in writing prior to a final decision expected to be made at the July 23rd Council meeting. Anyone wishing more information may contact Larry Randle, Director of Corporate Administration Services at 423-2231.
•    #4 – Oil Derrick Committee to be Formed
Councillor Giuliano and Councillor Burke will form a committee to research and review a potential project for the retention and restoration of the Fernie Oil Derrick presently located at the Chamber of Commerce site at the north end of the City along Highway #3.  The committee will seek funding sources and report back to Council regarding the type of project that may be possible.