April 12, 2023
Town of Sidney Council Meeting Highlights: April 11, 2023
Sidney, BC.;
Highlights from regular Council meetings provide a brief summary of some items of broad public interest. The summary is not inclusive of all agenda items. Please refer to www.www.sidney.ca for the full agenda, minutes, and webcast.
Council expands fireworks ban to include additional Environmentally Sensitive Areas
In response to community concerns about the possible impact of Halloween fireworks on wildlife, the Town of Sidney has expanded its Fireworks Bylaw to prohibit the discharge of fireworks into two additional Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA). Fireworks are now banned within 200 metres of the Lochside and All Bay/Tsehum ESAs, in addition to the Roberts Bay and KEL,SET (Reay Creek) ESAs. Community members planning to discharge fireworks outside of prohibited areas must continue to apply for a Family Fireworks Display Permit from the Sidney Volunteer Fire Department. The Town of Sidney has asked the District of North Saanich to consider harmonizing their fireworks bylaw in areas that border Sidney’s protected areas with fireworks prohibitions.
Hazard, Risk, and Vulnerability Analysis completed for the Town of Sidney
Council received an updated Hazard, Risk, and Vulnerability Analysis for the Town of Sidney identifying disasters of primary concern for the community and recommended actions for the Town to reduce risks. The analysis will inform the development of policies and procedures for emergency response, hazard mitigation, and the continuity of municipal services.
In addition to diseases such as COVID-19, the analysis identifies atmospheric hazards as one of the top risks facing residents and businesses in Sidney, including extreme heat, cold spells, atmospheric rivers, and drought. Since many Sidney residents are vulnerable to major emergencies due to factors such as older age or living alone, the Town’s Meet Your Street program, which fosters neighbours helping neighbours during emergencies, was identified as one of eight Emergency Preparedness Priorities for 2023.
Town of Sidney Hazard, Risk, and Vulnerability Analysis
2023 Town of Sidney Emergency Priorities
Video (22:29)
Media Contact:
Mayor Cliff McNeil-Smith
Town of Sidney
250-656-1139
mayor@sidney.ca