Harrison Village Facts

Executive Summary

The April 7, 2026 Regular Council Meeting agenda contains a mix of routine municipal business and several items that may have broader implications for the community.

Three topics stand out.

First, a letter from a local accommodation provider raises concerns about the prolonged closure of the public hot springs pool and the resulting impact on tourism and local businesses. The letter suggests the lack of public access is already affecting visitor bookings and the broader village economy.

Second, Council will review information regarding a growing coalition of municipalities considering legal action to clarify the impacts of recent provincial housing legislation on municipal authority and planning responsibilities.

Third, a Notice of Motion from Councillor Schweinbenz proposes that the Village formally engage with provincial agencies and forestry stakeholders regarding large scale clear cutting in forests surrounding Harrison Hot Springs. The motion raises concerns about watershed impacts, flooding risk, slope stability, and climate resilience.

Other items include discussion of an Amenity Cost Charges program, a zoning amendment for a property on Naismith Avenue, and routine administrative reports.

As with many meetings, a number of discussions related to negotiations and legal matters were held in closed sessions prior to the public meeting.

Key Agenda Items

Public Access to the Hot Springs

A letter from Bramblebank Cottages raises concerns about the closure of the public hot springs pool and the resulting impact on local tourism.

According to the letter, visitors who stay in accommodations within the village currently have no affordable access to the hot springs while the public pool remains closed. The letter notes that access is currently limited to spa services at the resort, reported to cost approximately $75 per person.

The author suggests the Village review the situation and consider working with the resort and the Province to restore reasonable public access during the maintenance period.

Judicial Review Coalition

Provincial Housing Legislation

Council has received correspondence regarding a coalition of municipalities exploring the possibility of seeking legal clarification on recent provincial housing legislation.

Municipal leaders across British Columbia have raised concerns that new legislation may significantly alter municipal planning authority, remove certain public hearing requirements, and place additional infrastructure and financial pressures on local governments.

Participating municipalities are considering jointly commissioning a legal opinion to assess the implications of the legislation.

Amenity Cost Charges Program

Council will review a background report regarding the potential introduction of Amenity Cost Charges.

Amenity Cost Charges are fees that can be collected from new development to help fund community amenities such as parks, recreational facilities, and other public infrastructure.

Council is being asked to receive the report and authorize staff to organize a community meeting to discuss the program and the information gathered to date.

Zoning Amendment

469 Naismith Avenue

Council will consider a zoning amendment for the property located at 469 Naismith Avenue.

The bylaw is scheduled to receive first, second, and third readings at the meeting. Additional details regarding the proposed zoning change are included within the staff report contained in the agenda package.

Forestry and Watershed Concerns

A Notice of Motion submitted by Councillor Mark Schweinbenz proposes that the Village engage with provincial agencies, forestry authorities, Indigenous governments, and neighbouring communities regarding forestry practices in areas surrounding Harrison Hot Springs.

The motion cites concerns regarding the cumulative impacts of large scale clear cutting in nearby forested areas, including potential effects on slope stability, runoff, wildfire risk, ecosystem health, and climate resilience.

If adopted, the motion would direct staff to begin discussions with provincial partners and stakeholders regarding alternative forest management approaches and opportunities for greater community involvement in forestry decisions affecting the region.

Closed Meetings

Prior to the April 7 meeting, Council held special meetings that were closed to the public under provisions of the Community Charter.

The cited reasons include legal advice, land related matters, and negotiations involving municipal services or other governments.

Closed meetings are permitted under provincial legislation when sensitive legal, property, or negotiation matters are being discussed.

Additional Agenda Items

Other items on the agenda include:

• adoption of previous council meeting minutes
• reports from councillors and the mayor
• committee meeting minutes for information
• the CAO First Quarter Update report
• adoption of Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 1242

Looking Ahead

The April 7 agenda reflects a range of issues affecting the community, including tourism access, provincial housing legislation, forest management practices, and development policy.

While some matters are procedural, several items may lead to broader discussions about economic impacts, environmental stewardship, and the evolving relationship between municipalities and the Province.

Residents interested in these topics may wish to review the full agenda package and attend or watch the meeting.