Council Meeting Highlights - September 21, 2026
Read below about some of the key highlights and decisions made by the City of Dawson Creek Council at the September 21, 2026 Council Meeting.
Request for Permission to Install a Peace Pole at Peace Park and City Hall
Council has approved a request from the Rotary Clubs of Dawson Creek to install Peace Poles at Peace Park and City Hall, with final locations to be determined in partnership with the City. Peace Poles are internationally recognized symbols that promote peace, understanding, and unity within communities.
Council also authorized staff to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Rotary Clubs of Dawson Creek outlining installation and ongoing maintenance responsibilities. The Rotary Clubs will be responsible for all costs associated with the Peace Poles, including installation, maintenance, repair, replacement, and removal if required.
Unnamed Park at 1617 102 Ave Formally Named “George Dawson Park”
Council has formally approved the naming of the City-owned park at 1617 102 Avenue as George Dawson Park, recognizing the significance of George Dawson's contributions to the region. To facilitate the naming, Council waived a provision of the City's Naming Rights Policy and directed staff to update City records, maps, and signage accordingly.
As part of the project, a new park sign will be installed at the playground located at 16th Street and 105th Avenue, helping residents and visitors identify and enjoy the newly named community space.
2027 Revitalization Tax Exemption Agreements
Council has approved entering into Revitalization Tax Exemption Agreements for the 2027 tax year with the property owners of 532 115 Avenue and 9204 8 Street. These agreements support investment in local properties by providing temporary tax exemptions for eligible redevelopment and improvement projects.
The Revitalization Tax Exemption (RTE) program is one of the tools available to encourage property improvements, support economic development, and contribute to ongoing community revitalization. Learn more about the RTE program at www.dawsoncreek.ca/rte.
2022-2026 Strategic Priorities Report Card
Council received the 2022-2026 Strategic Priorities Report Card, which provides an update on progress made toward Council's strategic goals and key initiatives over the current term. The report highlights completed projects, ongoing work, and areas that remain in progress.
Council has directed staff to continue advancing the outstanding initiatives identified in the report's "Now What?" sections, subject to approved budgets, Council policies, required approvals, and any future direction from Council. View the report card online.
Temporary Use Permit (TUP 26-03) – 1320 102 Avenue, Nawican Friendship Centre
Council has approved a Temporary Use Permit for the Nawican Friendship Centre located at 1320 102 Avenue for a period of 18 months. The permit includes a Good Neighbour Policy intended to support ongoing communication and positive relationships between the organization and surrounding residents and businesses.
As part of the approval, City staff will participate in Good Neighbour meetings to help facilitate dialogue, address concerns, and support collaboration throughout the term of the permit.
Additional Information Regarding Council's Decision
Throughout the review process, Council received feedback from nearby businesses and residents regarding neighbourhood impacts, public safety, parking, supervision, accountability, and the suitability of the proposed location. To help address these concerns, the permit includes several monitoring and reporting requirements.
The following questions were asked regarding this Temporary Use Permit:
- How will the permit be monitored?
City staff will monitor shelter operations through regular reporting from Nawican and Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA), as well as participation in Good Neighbour meetings. Continued non-compliance or unresolved concerns may result in a report to Council recommending the permit be rescinded. - How were public comments considered?
The City received nine written submissions and summarized the recurring concerns in the Council report. These concerns were shared with the applicant, and Council considered both the concerns raised and the applicant's proposed mitigation measures before making a decision. - Was there public notification and consultation?
Yes. The City completed both a referral process with surrounding properties and agencies, as well as the formal public notification required under the Local Government Act. Written comments were accepted and included in Council's consideration of the application. - How will concerns and complaints be addressed going forward?
The Good Neighbour process is intended to ensure concerns are documented, investigated, and followed up on. The permit requires ongoing monitoring, reporting, and implementation of neighbourhood mitigation measures, creating a framework for accountability and continuous review. - What about staffing levels?
The application identifies a minimum of two shelter staff on site during each shift, in addition to management, case management, outreach, and other support staff. Monthly reporting during the first year of operation, followed by quarterly reporting, will include information related to staffing, incidents, complaints, mitigation measures, and any corrective actions taken.
The temporary nature of the permit allows Council, staff, the operator, neighbouring businesses, and residents to assess how the use functions over time and whether the measures in place are effectively addressing community concerns.
As of July 27, 2026, Council Meetings are now being temporarily held in the Peace River Regional District Boardroom at 1981 Alaska Avenue while City Hall Renovations are completed. Learn more at www.dawsoncreek.ca/city-hall-relocation.