Author: LVCA

New Housing Legislation Info Sessions

LVCA

The following is an extract of
https://www.dnv.org/community-environment/new-provincial-housing-legislation

In November 2023, the provincial government passed legislation intended to increase housing supply and improve affordability in all B.C. municipalities. https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023PREM0062-001706
To achieve this goal, the B.C. government has made changes to allow more homes and offer different types of housing across the province in single-family neighbourhoods, and near transit hubs and other frequent transit corridors.


UPCOMING PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETINGS
In-person Public Information Meeting
The in-person public information meeting will begin with a presentation, followed by an opportunity to mingle with staff to ask questions and learn more.

  • Thursday, April 11, 6:30 – 8:30pm – In-person Public Information Meeting at Parkgate Community Centre (3625 Banff Court, North Vancouver)
  • Wednesday, April 17, 6:30 – 8:30pm – In-person Public Information Meeting at District Hall, Council Chambers (355 West Queens Road, North Vancouver)

Virtual Public Information Meeting
The virtual public information meetings will begin with a presentation, followed by a facilitated question and answer session with staff.

How the changes will affect the District
The new legislation fundamentally changes how the District – and all local governments in B.C. – plans, considers and approves development and growth across our entire community.

These rules require the District to allow increased density in neighbourhoods traditionally zoned for detached single-family homes and duplexes. This increase in density also requires updates to strategic, long-term visioning for our community and to the municipality’s zoning bylaws.

District staff are reviewing policies that are impacted by these changes as the province requires that all relevant bylaws must be updated by June 30, 2024.
Key facts

  • In most single-family neighbourhoods, the legislation supports up to three or four units per lot. In single-family neighbourhoods near frequent transit service, this could be as many as six units per lot.
  • The provincial government has designated Transit Oriented Development Areas with minimum densities and heights near Phibbs Exchange and Capilano University.
  • As part of the new rules, municipalities are no longer allowed to hold public hearings for residential projects that conform to the District’s Official Community Plan.
  • The District’s Housing Needs Report, Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw must be updated by December 2025 to accommodate 20 years of projected residential growth.

Related documents

Get more details on the government’s website for local government housing initiatives <https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/local-governments-and-housing/housing-initiatives>

Vote for Your Favourite Tree!

LVCA

It’s that time again! LVCA and over 70 sponsors have transformed Lynn Valley Village and the Bear Plaza into a magical display of lights and decorations!

This year we have our voting online. It’s a simple google form with the businesses, organizations and individuals that have sponsored a tree in the LVCA 13th Annual Parade of Trees listed for you to vote. 

The trees are listed in alphabetical order with their corresponding number. Choose that ONE tree that you feel captures the holiday spirit.

For your vote to count, you need to submit your name and a valid email address. PLEASE only vote once.

Visit the Parade of Trees, explore the creative decorations and themes and from now until December 24th, you can vote for your fave. We’ll be announcing the winners in the new year so stay tuned!

Voting Link: https://lvca.ca/2023-parade-of-trees-voting-form/

Kids! Want a fun activity? Download our “Parade of Trees Scavenger Hunt Activity Sheet” and follow the clues to find the tree that matches.

Dogs, People and Parks

LVCA

In keeping with the guidance in the Parks and Open Spaces Strategic Plan 2012, the North Vancouver District is working to continue developing guidelines for parks and trail planning that promote safety and enjoyment for all.

They have heard many comments and requests from the community that relate to dogs in District Parks. Along with a desire to create new opportunities to recreate with dogs in parks, they also hear about conflicts relating to interactions with dogs, waste management, environmental concerns and more.

The District wants to hear from you whether you are a dog owner or not.

This survey will take about 15 minutes to complete all sections. Most questions are optional so you don’t have to answer every question, however, click through to the end of the survey to ensure your responses are submitted.

Deadline DECEMBER 5TH.

https://www.dnv.org/parks-trails-recreation/dog-plan

EXTENDED TO OCT. 1ST! Bookmark Design Contest

LVCA

There’s still a chance to have your creation in books around Lynn Valley!

Create a bookmark with what you love the most about Lynn Valley.

Use crayons, paint, pastels and your imagination!

Winning designs will be distributed at the library.

How to enter:

  • Bookmark design should be 21x9cm in dimension (8×3.5 inches)
  • Scan and email your entry to lynnvalleyca@gmail.com or
  • Put it in an envelope and drop it off at 3171 Mountain Highway on or before OCTOBER 1ST, 2023

Remember to include your name, age, and a way to reach you.

EXTENDED!

CONTEST CLOSES 5PM SUNDAY, OCTOBER 1ST, 2023.

By submitting your entry you agree to have your design reproduced, shared and distributed for all to enjoy!

DNV Urban Tree Canopy Project

LVCA

A more diverse and healthy urban tree canopy will help us take action against climate change and increase biodiversity and wildlife habitat.

Plant a tree, make a difference.

The DNV is enhancing the urban tree canopy by giving free trees to homeowners, and plants or shrubs to people living in apartments and condos, as part of their Urban Tree Canopy Project.

Program history

The DNV invited residential property owners to participate in the inaugural Urban Tree Canopy program in 2021. 

In 2022, they expanded the program so those living in apartments or condos could receive a plant or shrub for their balcony. This year’s program offers a variety of tree and shrub species: cedar, fir, dogwood, shore pine, big leaf maple, willow, Nootka rose, woolly sunflower, tall Oregon grape, and Douglas aster.

To date, District residents have received 689 trees and shrubs to plant and help grow our tree canopy. 

The Urban Tree Canopy program is run in partnership with Coast Salish Plant Nursery and the Wild Bird Trust. Funds from the environmental compensation fee account were used to run the program.

Register today!

https://www.dnv.org/community-environment/urban-tree-canopy-project

To get your free plants, fill out the online linked above before Sept. 15, 2023. All plants are available while supplies last.

How the program works

If you own or rent a home in the District, you can apply to receive three trees and/or three shrubs for free, depending on your available space.

To request your free plants, fill out the online form linked above before September 15, 2023.

All plants are available while supplies last. DNV will be providing substitutions if any plant species run out.

After you submit your request

You’ll receive a confirmation email after submitting the online form. They will also email you approximately two weeks before the plant pick up days (Oct. 21 and 22) with more information about pickup times and parking, etc.

Picking up your trees or shrubs

You can pick up your plants at the Maplewood Flats Conservation Area (2649 Dollarton Hwy) on October 21 or 22, 2023. If you’re unavailable on the days above, and are unable to have someone else pick up your plants, email iwantatree@dnv.org to arrange a different time

If you’d like to know more about the native plants being offered, and which ones are suitable for your yard or balcony, refer to the plant information sheet (PDF file link) and by visiting the website to view videos on the program, how to choose, how to plant and care for your plants and so much more@

Great Lynn Valley Neighbourhood Garage – and Parking Lot Sale

LVCA

The annual Great Neighbourhood Garage Sale is back! Two days of bargain hunting May 27 & 28, 9:30AM – noon (although you’re welcome to start earlier and end later!) – and a garage is not necessary to participate!

The team at LynnValleyLife is putting together the ultimate map for bargain hunters. If you are thinking spring garage sale – this is the weekend to do it!  LynnValleyLife will gather participant addresses and distribute the map on social media and by email. They will even have some signs you can print off to direct buyers to your block.

No garages need – there’s a parking lot sale

Not everyone has a garage, so LynnValleyLife has partnered with St. Clements Anglican Church (3400 Institute Road) to offer their parking lot for the morning of Saturday, May 28th – to bring a table or use your trunk to sell your items. To sign up for a parking lot spot at the church, please email robin@lynnvalleylife.com To register your address, visit the SIGN UP form.

Artists and Makers are welcome!

Increased neighbourhood traffic might also be an opportunity for crafters or makers to show their wares. If you want to open your driveway or garage to show your handiwork – you too can sign up with your ‘garage’ address or for a parking lot spot. You will be added to the map!

Report a Crime Online

LVCA

#DYK that you can report Non-emergency crimes online using the North Van RCMP’s online reporting tool?

This service is an alternative way for you to report non-emergency crimes day and night without having to visit or call a detachment. The report you submit is reviewed and entered into the RCMP Records Management System by your local detachment.

An incident number will be included in a generated report that is emailed to you upon submission. However, there will be no follow up unless more information is required.

For FAQ’s & to find out which incident types are applicable, visit: https://bit.ly/3M40UKo

Your report is vital in assisting the RCMP with identifying crime trends in the community and deterring future crimes.

To report a non-emergency crime, visit: https://bit.ly/3ZsfPkU

If it is an emergency such as a crime in progress, or you’re in need of emergency responders, don’t hesitate – dial 911 immediately.

Meet Me at the Gallery

LVCA

Are you a Senior? Love art? Love meeting new people?

Meet Me at The Gallery is a daytime art program at The Polygon Gallery dedicated to enriching the lives of seniors in our community with monthly get-togethers inspired by the gallery’s current exhibitions.

Visitors are invited to drop-in on the first Wednesday of every month at 10:00 am to make new connections with art, and each other! A different activity will greet visitors every month, with social time to follow.

Admission is by donation, free for members

For more info and registration visit: https://thepolygon.ca/event/meet-me-at-the-gallery/

Annual Youth Awards

LVCA

Youth Awards nominations are open!

Do you know an exceptional young person who is working hard to make life better for themselves, their peers, or the community?

Maybe they’ve overcome personal challenges or obstacles… or maybe they’ve made a significant achievement in academics, sports, or music… or maybe they’re doing volunteer work to help make the District a better place to live, work, or play.

Whatever the accomplishment, celebrate it with a Youth Award.

Each year, awards are given in four categories:

Youth Recognition Award

For young people who have made great personal strides, overcome personal or societal barriers, or demonstrated great skill in music, academics, art, or sports.

Youth Community Enhancement Award

For young volunteers who have made positive contributions to the community by providing at least 75 hours of service on a committee, or by working with a local organization or group.

Outstanding Youth-Friendly Business/Supporter of Youth Award

For a person or business that did an exceptional job in hiring or training youth, providing opportunities to youth, or providing funding, support, or services to young people. 

Outstanding Youth Team Award

Recognizes a group of young people (ages 10 – 24) who have completed a minimum of 50 hours per person of community (or school) service to enhance programs or services in their school or community.

Nominations Deadline is March 13, 2023 @11:59PM PST

For more information and how to nominate that special youth, go to: Annual Youth Awards