Port Coquitlam City Info Guide 2013

City Info Guide 2013-2014

Your guide to: City services • getting involved • doing business in Port Coquitlam

www.portcoquitlam.ca

Table of Contents

Our Vision

Message from City Council Reasons to love Port Coquitlam What we’ve been up to lately Our history Community events Key City statistics Volunteering Traboulay PoCo Trail Guide for citizens Guide for businesses Guide to staying connected Guide to living green Where your tax dollars go Employee spotlight City services spotlight Important contacts

Port Coquitlam is a happy, vibrant, safe community of healthy engaged citizens and thriving businesses supported by sustainable resources and services.

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Introducing

our new City Info Guide Port Coquitlam is your city, and we want to help you make the most of it. In our first-ever City Info Guide, you’ll find a wealth of information about your community, the City’s services, and how to get more involved.

Whether you’re a resident, business or visitor, we hope you find this guide to be a helpful resource – and learn why Port Coquitlam is such a great place to live, work, play and do business.

City of Port Coquitlam

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Message from

City Council To better meet the needs of our residents and businesses, we’ve replaced the community version of our Annual Report with a new City Info Guide that is filled with practical information and presents the City’s work and services from your perspective.

This new publication is part of our renewed focus on customer service. We want to make sure that the City services you pay for not only reflect your priorities, but are accessible, convenient and fully utilized. We also want to make sure our property owners know how they can have a say in the decisions that affect these services.

We encourage you to read this new guide cover to cover to learn more about the City, and keep it around as a handy reference all year long.

City Info Guide 2013-2014

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A few reasons to

love Port Coquitlam

Fun city Port Coquitlam loves to celebrate. Community festivals and gatherings take place throughout the year, including the May Day Festival and parade, Farmers Market, Polish Day, Canada Day, outdoor summer concerts, the Downtown Car Show, the Rivers & Trails Festival, the Terry Fox Hometown Run and Christmas in Leigh Square. Info: page 7 or www.portcoquitlam.ca/events.

Recreation paradise Cycle or walk the 25-km Traboulay PoCo Trail to get back to nature and link to amenities such as the Gates Park sports fields, the outdoor gym, Lions Park and Hyde Creek Recreation Centre. City trails also provide access to nearby recreation spots such as Minnekhada Regional Park. Check out the trail map on page 10.

Hometown hero For many who live or were born in Port Coquitlam, it’s a source of pride and inspiration to share a hometown with national treasure Terry Fox. Hundreds of residents and visitors attend the Terry Fox Hometown Run each September to honour the enduring legacy of this Canadian hero.

Info: www.terryfox.org.

Quaint downtown Grab a latte and stroll through Port Coquitlam’s charming and walkable downtown, featuring unique shops and green spots for peoplewatching. Catch a free performance at the Leigh Square bandshell, visit the new heritage centre and check out the historic City Hall, built in 1914, with its original entrance on McAllister Avenue.

City of Port Coquitlam

3 Exciting growth Growth in the up-andcoming Dominion Triangle area is bringing hundreds of new townhomes and apartments, shopping and employment opportunities to east Port Coquitlam.

New businesses and development are also being seen in other areas across the City, drawn by Port Coquitlam’s central location, affordability and proximity to transportation links and a skilled labour force.

Engineering marvel

Family-friendly Lots of activities and services are available for children and youth, from free family events, daycares and after-school programs to youth centres, a skate park and a bike skills park.

Open since 2010, the awardwinning Coast Meridian Overpass links the north and south sides of the City.

The CMO’s engineering feats – including its elegant cable-stayed design and the push-launch of a 125-m section of bridge span during construction – has earned accolades across North America.

Our spirit

Affordable Housing and property is among the most affordable in the region on the north side of the Fraser River, and City property taxes and levies are below average in Metro Vancouver.

City Info Guide 2013-2014

Port Coquitlam’s tradition of community spirit and pride are unique in an urban setting. The City’s special brand of PoCo Pride is evident in the attendance at community festivals, energetic Spirit Committee and the strong culture of volunteerism.

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What we’ve been

up to lately

RECENT ACTIVITIES AND MILESTONES

Waste not, want not We followed four local households in early 2013 as they competed for the title of Port Coquitlam’s Biggest Waste Losers plus great prizes, including an iPad. The contestants diverted 84% of their waste from the landfill – a total of 1,100 pounds!

Get tips on losing waste at www.portcoquitlam.ca/wasteloss.

Happy birthday to us The City turned 100 on March 7, 2013 and threw a year-long party to celebrate. Events, special projects and more were planned for throughout 2013 as the entire community showed off its PoCo Pride. For details, check out www.portcoquitlam.ca/100.

The Hobenshields were named Port Coquitlam’s Biggest Waste Losers.

Playgrounds for all In June 2013, Port Coquitlam became the first city in the Lower Mainland to formally adopt a policy that makes all future City playgrounds accessible for children of all abilities. Upgrades at Lions Park in fall 2013 are the first to meet this new criteria.

Lights, camera, action!

We’re social The City won a first place Community Excellence Award from the Union of BC Municipalities in 2012 for how we use social media, like Facebook and Twitter, to connect with our citizens. It was the City’s third honour for our use of the internet to reach out to citizens.

Get connected to your City at www.portcoquitlam.ca/connected.

Since June 2013, anyone with a computer or data-enabled device has been able to watch live Council meetings without stepping foot in City Hall. View live webstreamed Council meetings, browse agendas and more through www.portcoquitlam.ca/councilagendas.

A livable city The secret’s out! Port Coquitlam was recognized as the third most livable city in BC (and 33rd out of 200 across Canada) in March 2013 in Moneysense magazine’s annual Best Places to Live ranking.

Safety a priority The City invested in safety in 2013 with two new police officers rs and six new firefighters. As well, l, the new operational plan for Fire ire & Emergency Services is bringing faster responses and improved service, including g a new specially outfitted F-150 pickup to attend the e growing number of medical al calls. For fire prevention tips and info, go to www.portcoquitlam.ca/fire..

City City of of Port Port Coquitlam Coquitlam

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Our Community

City Info Guide 2013-2014

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From yesterday

to tomorrow

Locomotive 371 was the first Canadian Pacific Railway engine to visit the area in 1886.

An early May Day parade passes by City Hall, built in 1914.

Port Coquitlam, circa 1914.

The early days

The PoCo Trail was started in 1970, and hometown hero Terry Fox inspired the world with his Marathon of Hope in 1980.

European settlers were drawn to the area that would later be Port Coquitlam in the early 1800s, but the real growth began after the arrival of the railway in 1885.

About 1,200-1,500 settlers called Port Coquitlam home when it was incorporated as a city on March 7, 1913. City Hall was built a year later in the area that became the City’s official downtown after a devastating fire in 1920 on Kingsway Avenue (then the town’s business centre).

The tradition of community celebration began early, including the first May Day festival in 1923.

Underpass construction in 1962.

Years of growth The end of the Second World War in 1945 and the completion of Lougheed Highway in 1948 brought an influx of residents and businesses.

When the Shaughnessy Street underpass opened in 1962, more than 8,000 people lived here. In 1970, the PoCo Trail was started and the City built its first recreation centre. By 1980, when a young Port Coquitlam hero named Terry Fox inspired the world, the population had grown to approximately 27,000.

Recent decades Population and infrastructure growth continued in the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s, with the renovation of City Hall and both recreation centres, and the construction of Fire Hall #1, the Operations Centre and the Leigh Square Community Arts Village, the Coast Meridian Overpass, heritage museum and other facilities.

The Leigh Square bandshell opened in 2001, followed by the Arts Village in 2007.

Today, Port Coquitlam is a city of 57,000 with a strategic location, exciting new development and a growing reputation as a livable and desirable community. The City marked its 100th birthday in 2013 with a year-long celebration – visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/100 for details.

City of Port Coquitlam

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Yes, we do love to

celebrate!

Check out these annual events and activities in Port Coquitlam. Get more info at www.portcoquitlam.ca/events unless otherwise noted.

Sunday Coffee Concerts: January-March

Sunday afternoon concerts by a variety of top musicians at Terry Fox Theatre.

Spirit Week: February

A week-long celebration of the community, people and spirit of Port Coquitlam.

City-wide Garage Sale: April

Residents are invited to hold garage sales on a designated day during Earth Week to keep usable items out of the landfill.

May Day Festival: May

A week of fun activities including music, May Pole dancing, amusement rides, the Rotary May Day Grande Parade and more.

Youth Week: May 1-7

A celebration of youth, with skateboard competitions, carnivals and the Tri-City REACH awards.

Farmers Market: late spring-summer

Fresh produce, prepared foods, arts, crafts and more are offered at Leigh Square each Thursday, 3-7 pm.

Canada Day: July 1

Enjoy a fishing derby, live entertainment, displays, an international bazaar, fireworks and more.

Pride of PoCo Garden Awards: June-July

An annual contest recognizing those whose beautiful gardens enhance the City.

City Info Guide 2013-2014

Summer in the City: July-August

A festival of arts, entertainment and culture, featuring free outdoor movies and concerts and more. Info: www.portcoquitlam.ca/leighsquare.

Downtown Car Show: August

A Port Coquitlam Business Improvement Association event, with vehicles, music and more. Info: www.pocobia.com.

Terry Fox Hometown Run: September

A run/walk and fundraising event continuing the legacy of hometown hero Terry Fox. Info: www.terryfoxrun.org.

Rivers & Trails Festival: September

Held on BC Rivers Day, with live entertainment, displays, family activities and more.

Hyde Creek Salmon Festival: November

An annual event marking the return of salmon to the rivers, with hatchery tours, displays, family activities and more.

Remembrance Day: November 11

Port Coquitlam honours those who sacrificed for our nation with an indoor service and parade to the cenotaph.

Christmas in Leigh Square: end of November

This holiday kick-off includes arts, crafts, live music, treats, Santa and the lighting of City Hall and Leigh Square.

Key City

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statistics

Growth and Development Construction Value Year 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Total $ Value – New Construction 45,825,226 35,862,119 72,934,972 39,475,621 87,989,057

Total $ Value – Repairs & Additions 8,186,742 16,685,521 11,452,931 17,294,098 16,445,435

Business Licences Year 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Licences issued 2,621 2,629 2,904 3,117 3,204

Top five sectors: • • • • •

Home-based General General contractor (out of town) Manufacturing Professional person

Our Community Population and Dwellings Source: Statistics Canada - 2006 and 2011 Census Note: Census population estimates are not consistent with municipal and regional estimates.

Port Coquitlam

BC

56,342 52,687 6.9 21,533 19,689 1,931.3 1,806.2 29.17

4,400,057 4,113,487 7.0 1,945,365 1,788,474 4.8 4.4 922,509.29

Population in 2011 Population in 2006 2006 to 2011 population change (%) Total private dwellings 2011 Total private dwellings 2006 Population density per sq. km Population density per sq. km Land area (square km)

Age Distribution Ages Distribution based on published totals, both sexes. Source: Statistics Canada - 2011 Census.

All 0-14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65+

Port Coquitlam Male Female 28,295 5,115 4,240 7,655 8,680 2,605

28,315 4,695 3,695 8,140 8,680 3,105

% Distribution* Port Coquitlam BC 100% 17.4 14.1 28 30.4 10.1

100% 15.3 13.2 29 29 13.5

Summary Statistics Port Coquitlam Population, 2011 56,342 Total population 15 yrs & up 46,540 Total private households 20,650 Average household size 2.7 Median income* $28,403 Education (15 yrs. & over)* 41,850 No certificate, diploma, degree* 7,260 High school graduate* 12,715 Trades certificate* 4,815 College diploma* 8,210 Some university* 2,295 University degree* 6,555

BC 4,400,057 3,722,690 1,764,635 2.5 $24,867 3,394,910 675,345 946,645 368,355 565,900 184,395 654,265

Source: Statistics Canada - 2006 & 2011 Census * Source: 2006 Census. (2011 Census data for these items not available at time of publication.) Please note: not all subsets are listed for each category

City of Port Coquitlam

How we

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give back

Giving back is a way of life in Port Coquitlam, among the members of our community as well as our City employees.

Port Coquitlam firefighters placed fifth in the Movember Great Canadian Fire Department Challenge in November 2012, raising $12,800 for men’s health issues.

Because of their efforts, Port Coquitlam is a safer, healthier and more complete community, with an abundance of PoCo Pride: that special combination of community spirit and pride that is unique to the City.

City staff give back We’re proud of the numerous charitable and volunteer endeavors undertaken by City of Port Coquitlam staff and Council members. Here are just a few examples of our volunteer efforts in 2012: • The City’s annual United Way campaign raised $16,674 through activities such as casual days, 50/50 draws and raffles.

• Staff raised $1,417 for the Terry Fox Foundation through casual days and raffles.

• Port Coquitlam firefighters raised $29,400 for various causes in 2012 through efforts such as a boot drive, Movember, Christmas tree chipping, the annual Canada Day salmon barbecue, and a beer garden and cook shack at a slow-pitch tournament. Funds raised included: · · · · ·

$12,800 for prostate cancer research and men’s mental health initiatives, $11,200 for Muscular Dystrophy Canada, $5,000 for the BC Professional Fire Fighters Burn Fund, $300 for the Terry Fox Foundation, and $100 for the Juvenile Diabetes Society.

• City staff raised $1,067 and collected approximately 3,250 pounds of food for SHARE Family & Community Services through casual days and donations.

City Info Guide 2013-2014

Volunteer opportunities The City of Port Coquitlam provides opportunities for our citizens to volunteer in all aspects of civic life, from assisting with recreation programs to serving as citizen advisors to our City Council or on a variety of boards and task forces.

Visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/volunteer to learn about volunteer opportunities and to register online as a City volunteer. The City’s volunteer application process includes completing an online form, a criminal record check, and participation in an orientation session.

Honouring our volunteers In conjunction with National Volunteer Week each April, we honour and celebrate all volunteers in our community with our Port Coquitlam Volunteer Recognition Awards & Tribute and other recognition events.

We strive to recognize these unsung heroes and their legacy, and encourage them to keep working hard to make our community better.

Award nominations take place from January to March each year.

Learn more about past award recipients and how to nominate your favourite volunteer at www.portcoquitlam.ca/volunteer.

2013 Volunteer Award recipients to left of Mayor Greg Moore: (from left) Jean Peachman, Eurilda Larsen, Thelka Wright. To right of Mayor: Patrick McCarthy, Katrina Besler, Walter Van Drimmelen, Robyn Doig.

Explore the

trails

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The 25-kilometre Traboulay PoCo Trail that encircles the City is a popular recreation spot for walkers, runners, cyclists and skaters.

Accessed from many points in the community, it traverses a varied landscape and is suitable for exploring at any time of the year. For more information, pick up a free Traboulay PoCo Trail Guide at City facilities, or visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/parks.

City of Port Coquitlam

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Get Involved

City Info Guide 2013-2014

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Guide for

citizens

New in town?

Drop by City Hall for information about civic events, maps of local rivers and trails, recreational activities and more.

Other tips for newcomers: • Check out our Leisure Guide online at www.portcoquitlam.ca/leisureguide for arts and recreation programs for people of all ages.

• Visit the City’s online mapping system at www.portcoquitlam.ca/pocomap to search for facilities and parks, road information, garbage pickup zones, detailed property information including legal address, zoning, aerial photos and property taxes, and other info.

• Go to www.portcoquitlam.ca/welcome for other information for newcomers, including a new resident checklist and other tips and links.

About City Council City Council is the legislative body representing the citizens of Port Coquitlam. Council provides leadership, sets budgets and establishes policies and priorities for Port Coquitlam’s municipal government.

Council decisions are implemented by staff, who develop and administer City programs and services and carry out the City’s day-today operations.

Council encourages open dialogue with all citizens and welcomes feedback on proposed developments and City initiatives and programs to ensure Council decisions reflect community priorities.

City Council consists of Mayor Greg Moore and six Councillors: Mike Forrest, Darrell Penner, Glenn Pollock, Dean Washington, Brad West and Michael Wright. All members of Council hold office for three-year terms. The next civic election is November 15, 2014 – mark your calendar to vote.

City Council may be contacted at citycouncil@portcoquitlam.ca or 604.927.5410. Visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/council for contact information for individual Council members.

Council Community Connections The City and Port Coquitlam Spirit Committee offer local groups and non-profit organizations a chance to share, present or perform at regular Council meetings.

These short presentations are intended to celebrate community pride, share information about community initiatives and achievements, and reflect the community’s diversity.

Visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/communityconnections for information.

City of Port Coquitlam

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Following Council City Council meetings take place at 7 pm on the second and fourth Monday of every month, except for the August break and on statutory holidays, when the meetings move to Tuesday. Meetings are held in the Council chambers on the third floor of City Hall.

There are several ways to follow Council: • Attend Council meetings at City Hall.

• Watch live webstreamed Council meetings or view archived meetings online on your computer or data-enabled device at www. portcoquitlam.ca/councilagendas. You can browse agendas, view staff reports, clip segments, share video and more.

• Go to www.portcoquitlam.ca/councilagendas to read agendas and minutes online. Agendas are posted by Friday afternoon prior to the Monday Council meeting, and minutes are posted once adopted. The full agenda package is also available at the City Hall main reception desk.

• Watch regular Monday night Council meetings on Shaw Community Channel 4 at 9 pm on the Tuesday after the meeting, or 11 am the Saturday after the meeting (special meetings and those held on Tuesday night are not televised). Those with digital boxes may receive the Shaw TV feed from Vancouver. Call Shaw technical support at 604.629.8888 to find out about options for viewing Port Coquitlam Council meetings.

• Watch the local newspapers for Council coverage.

Council committees Council has established six committees to give direction on issues and policies in specialized areas: • Community Safety Committee (bylaw enforcement, police, fire) • Healthy Community Committee (parks, recreation and culture) • Finance and Intergovernmental Committee (financial issues, matters that cross department lines) • Smart Growth Committee (land use and development) • Transportation Solutions and Public Works Committee (roads, infrastructure and waste collection) These meetings are open to the public. For schedule information, visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/council.

City Info Guide 2013-2014

Council Meeting 101 Council procedures are set out in the Community Charter and Local Government Act. Councils make decisions at their meetings by passing a resolution (which requires a simple majority vote), or a bylaw (which requires three votes, or readings, followed by adoption). Most items that appear on a regular Council agenda have already been discussed by one of Council’s committees.

All Council meetings and discussions are open to the public except for specific circumstances, in which closed meetings are held to deal with items such as legal, property and labour relations issues.

Having your say: • Public hearings are required for bylaws that change the zoning designation (current land use) or Official Community Plan designation (future / long-term land use) of a property. Council presides over public hearings, at which interested parties may speak for or against the proposed bylaw. Information about upcoming public hearings is posted online at: www.portcoquitlam.ca/getinvolved.

• Citizens or other parties may appear as a delegation at any regular Council or committee meeting. To appear at a Council or committee meeting, submit a request in writing to the Corporate Office by noon on the Wednesday prior to the meeting. If there is no available time slot, you will be contacted to choose another date.

Visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/council (Appearing as a Council Delegation) for an online request form, or contact the Corporate Office at 604.927.5421 or corporateoffice@portcoquitlam.ca for more information.

• At a Question Period that follows each meeting, citizens and other parties may address Council on any topic.

• Open houses, workshops, display booths and online surveys may be held by the City or project proponents in discussion of a proposed development or initiative. Visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/getinvolved to learn about upcoming opportunities.

Guide for

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businesses

We are open for business Port Coquitlam values our businesses and offers a variety of services, including: • An open-door policy that encourages owners, operators and potential investors to communicate their questions and concerns to us.

• Economic development initiatives in partnership with the Port Coquitlam Business Improvement Association and Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce.

• Resources at www.portcoquitlam.ca/business including benefits of doing business in Port Coquitlam plus services, programs and links.

• Online renewal of City business licences through www.portcoquitlam.ca/onlineservices.

• Referrals to appropriate agencies that will best meet your needs.

Annual business celebration Port Coquitlam holds a business celebration each fall to recognize the importance of local businesses to the community and to provide them with networking opportunities.

The 2013 PoCo Biz Awards and celebration will be held October 17, 2013 at the PoCo Inn & Suites. Businesses may nominate themselves from September 13 to October 3, and public voting for the People’s Choice Award will take place October 4 to 11.

Visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/bizawards for more details. Information about the 2014 event will be posted in late summer 2014.

City of Port Coquitlam

15 Safe Streets Coalition You arrive at your business one morning to find a shopping cart loaded with clothing and personal belongings in your doorway.

What do you do?

As a member of the Safe Streets Coalition, the City provides information resources and assistance to businesses regarding the Safe Streets Act and the Trespass Act.

Do you have a business licence?

All businesses must have a valid business licence to operate in Port Coquitlam, including temporary, non-resident and home-based businesses. Licences are valid for one calendar year and are renewed each January 1.

Options to obtain a licence: • Pick up an application from the Business Licence Division at City Hall or download one from www.portcoquitlam.ca/business.

• The provincial government One-Stop Business Registry Services Centre allows registration for business licences and some provincial and federal business registration requirements. Apply at www.bcbusinessregistry.ca or call the toll-free Help Desk at 1.877.822.6727.

• Go to www.portcoquitlam.ca/onlineservices to renew existing business licences.

Fees vary based on business type and may be paid by cash, cheque, debit, Visa, Mastercard or American Express. For more information, contact businesslicence@portcoquitlam.ca or 604.927.5238 or visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/business.

Inter-municipal business licences Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam and Port Moody offer an inter-municipal business licence (IBL).

Businesses that work across municipal boundaries in the Tri-Cities – such as builders, landscapers or caterers – can pay a flat $165 for an IBL in addition to the annual business licence they must still obtain in their home city. Businesses only require an IBL if they physically perform a service at a client site in another community, not if they are merely delivering goods.

For more information or to apply, visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/business or contact 604.927.5238 or businesslicence@portcoquitlam.ca.

City Info Guide 2013-2014

The Trespass Act provides businesses with tools to deal with unauthorized persons who take up residence or leave their belongings on their properties.

Under the Safe Streets Act or Trespass Act, police can choose to educate, issue a violation ticket or issue a provincial appearance notice requiring the person to appear in court. For situations where a person continues or repeats the offence, police have the authority to arrest.

More information on the acts is available online at www.portcoquitlam.ca/business or www.safestreetscoalition.com, or from Bylaw Services at City Hall.

Help wipe out graffiti The Wipe Out Graffiti program provides tools, techniques and discounts on paint and supplies to help you keep your business graffiti-free.

To take advantage of this program, contact the Downtown Community Police Station at 604.927.2383 or the Northside Community Police Station at 604.927.5172, or visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/policing.

Business organizations Networking, support and resources are available through local businesses organizations. Membership is free for the Port Coquitlam Business Improvement Association (www.pocobia.com). The Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce also represents Port Coquitlam businesses (www.tricitieschamber.com).

Guide to

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staying connected

Stay connected online with the City of Port Coquitlam: www.portcoquitlam.ca A comprehensive guide to City services, news, programs and online services, including: • PoCoMAP interactive mapping tool (computer or mobile device) bil d i ) • Community Calendar – City events, meetings and public input sessions • Council meeting agendas and minutes • Online Payments – renew dog and business licences • Online Electronic Home Owner Grants claim form • Online service requests, complaints and compliments

Get e-Update email newsletters about City news, projects and events. Sign up at www.portcoquitlam.ca/e-update.

Browse or register for recreation programs at www.experienceit.ca.

Find resources to become healthy and active at www.pocomotion.ca.

Online City Council meetings Watch live City Council meetings and view archived meetings at www.portcoquitlam.ca/councilagendas from your computer or mobile device.

Check out what’s happening for local youth at www.pocoyouth.com. www.portcoquitlam.ca/leighsquare Learn about local arts and cultural programs and events.

Social media Follow us! www.facebook.com/PortCoquitlam www.twitter.com/CityofPoCo www.youtube.com/CityofPoCo

www.portcoquitlam.ca/connect

Free WiFi at City facilities Offered at Leigh Square, recreation centres and City Hall.

City of Port Coquitlam

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Guide to

living green

It’s easy living green EnviroPlan – Port Coquitlam’s environmental strategic plan – helps ensure the environment is considered and protected as the City continues to grow.

A few ways you can live green:

The plan is based on six goals: Reduce greenhouse gases and work towards a net zero carbon community.

Preserve biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Use fluorescent or LED bulbs to reduce greenhouse gases.

Manage water use and quality.

Use materials and resources sparingly.

Create healthy, livable communities.

Avoid pesticides and use organic fertilizer to keep the ecosystem and your family healthy.

Support local food and agriculture.

Switch to high efficiency toilets and showerheads to save water.

Visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/green to find out more about EnviroPlan and the various City initiatives available to help you and your family live greener.

Place all food scraps into your green cart to reduce waste.

Volunteer your time to help make our community a better place to live.

Shop at the Port Coquitlam Farmers Market to support local food and agriculture.

City Info Guide 2013-2014

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City of Port Coquitlam

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Inside City Hall

City Info Guide 2013-2014

Where do your

20

taxes go?

The average single-family dwelling in Port Coquitlam spends approximately $240 per month for a wide range of City services.

Water & Sewer: $60.25/month

Policing: $38.76/month

Infrastructure Funding: $20.34/month

Parks & Recreation: $32.96/month

Engineering Services: $16.42/month

Administrative Services: $24.05/month

Garbage Collection: $14.69/month

Fire & Emergency: $23.74/month

Debt Repayment: $8.93/month

How do we compare?

Each year, Port Coquitlam property owners pay lower municipal taxes and user fees (e.g. utilities, garbage collection) than the average Metro Vancouver taxpayer for the same or similar City services.

These figures reflect the 2013 tax year based on an average single-family dwelling valued at $528,935.

City of Port Coquitlam

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Employee

spotlight

From selling hotdogs to

running elections

“It’s a great place to work, and a lot of great people work here. I love my job and I’ve lived here most of my life. I feel like I’m part of this City.”

– Corporate Officer Susan Rauh, 38-year employee Susan Rauh was a 16-year-old high school student in 1975 when she landed her first job at the City of Port Coquitlam as a part-time arena concession worker and occasional switchboard operator and taxes secretary.

She never imagined she would still be working for the City 38 years later, having filled positions including a Parks & Recreation secretary, building clerk, secretary and secretarial assistant to the City Clerk, Director of Human Resources and City Clerk. When she was promoted to City Clerk (now called Corporate Officer) in 1993 and became a Certified Municipal Clerk three years later, she was the fifth person and first woman to hold the job since the City’s incorporation in 1913.

The job has continued to evolve beyond the traditional corporate administrative duties such as managing City elections, preparing and managing Council meeting agendas, packages and minutes, providing and amending bylaws, and providing advice on Council procedures and policies.

The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act in 1996 was a major trigger for change. The City receives more than 57 requests for information each year – some with thousands of pages that Susan goes through page by page.

Technology has both streamlined processes and added new duties. When City-wide records management was introduced in 2005, Susan was put in charge of managing, storing and digitizing the City’s key documents. Council meetings went paperless in 2010, when the use of iPads eliminated the need to print 170 agenda packages each year, totaling more than 73,000 double-sided pages. And in spring 2013, Susan took on the role of video editor as the City introduced live webstreamed Council meetings.

City Info Guide 2013-2014

Reflecting on how the job has changed, she said: “The public is much more aware now, and they know where to get information – that’s when they start calling us. I still really enjoy informing people about how the process works and what we can and cannot do. And I like the variety of work I do – I love researching, looking back and finding out why we did things.”

Susan remembers the thrill when City Hall was renovated and expanded in 1999, a major upgrade from the original hall built in 1914. “We used to have rats running up and down the stairwell in the old hall. You’d always bang a bit to make sure they weren’t there.”

While she no longer lives in Port Coquitlam, Susan still feels like a local and her parents still live here in the home where she grew up.

“I’ve really enjoyed watching the change in the City and the growth in the community over the years.

The City has done such a fantastic A coworker took this photo job building the community spirit.” of Susan at work in 1975.

Our staff are the heart of the City We are proud to have many long-time employees working for our City. Of our 458 employees, 35 have served more than 25 years, 12 have served more than 30 years, five have served more than 35 years and two have served more than 40 years.

City Services Spotlight 22

Administrative Services & Finance Some of the ways we serve you:

Office of the Chief Administrative Officer

Communications & Administrative Services • Ensure the City website and social media are up-to-date and useful.

• Ensure all City departments are operating effectively and efficiently.

• Provide City information online, with printed materials, at events and through the media.

• Execute decisions of the Council elected by citizens.

• Assist visitors and respond to public inquiries in City Hall reception, Mayor and Councillors’ office, CAO’s office and City administrative area.

Human Resources • Hire staff for all City departments.

• Support departments in providing training and professional development opportunities that result in better customer service.

Corporate Office • Manage the Council meeting process and live online filming.

• Run City and school board elections.

• Handle requests for information under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

City of Port Coquitlam

Contacts and info

23

Budget / Financial Plan 604.927.5280 budget@portcoquitlam.ca www.portcoquitlam.ca/budget

Did you know?

1 Port Coquitlam has won three awards for its website and social media.

Get connected: www.portcoquitlam.ca/connected.

3

The administrative office is in the part of City Hall that was built in 1914.

You can watch City Council meetings live at www.portcoquitlam.ca/councilagendas.

Free WiFi is available at City Hall, recreation centres and Leigh Square.

4

Business licences and services

2

604.927.5238 businesslicences@portcoquitlam.ca www.portcoquitlam.ca/business

Bylaw enforcement and animal control 604.927.5440 bylawservices@portcoquitlam.ca www.portcoquitlam.ca/bylaws www.portcoquitlam.ca/dogs www.portcoquitlam.ca/bears

Careers with the City www.portcoquitlam.ca/jobs

5

Port Coquitlam residents own an estimated 9,000 dogs. Services for dogs: www.portcoquitlam.ca/dogs.

City Hall administration and Council 604.927.5410 www.portcoquitlam.ca/council www.portcoquitlam.ca/mayor

Council meetings or elections 604.927.5421 corporateoffice@portcoquitlam.ca www.portcoquitlam.ca/councilagendas www.portcoquitlam.ca/elections

6

General City inquiries

There are more home-based businesses than any other type of business in Port Coquitlam. Business info: www.portcoquitlam.ca/business.

Information Services • Provide online services such as Electronic Home Owner Grants, business and dog licence renewals.

• Ensure City staff have the technology they need to serve customers.

604.927.5411 info@portcoquitlam.ca www.portcoquitlam.ca

Online Payments & Services www.portcoquitlam.ca/onlineservices

Property taxes, utilities, Home Owner Grant and dog licences 604.927.5425 taxes@portcoquitlam.ca www.portcoquitlam.ca/taxes www.portcoquitlam.ca/utilities www.portcoquitlam.ca/e-hog

Bylaw Services • Enforce City bylaws to ensure the City is safe and livable.

Finance • Collect property taxes and utilities that pay for City services.

• Prepare the City’s budget and five-year Financial Plan.

• Manage and report on City finances.

City Info Guide 2013-2014

• Issue dog licences and manage pet, bear and wildlife issues.

• Issue business licences and assist local businesses.

City Services Spotlight 24

Development Services Some of the ways we serve you:

Building • Issue building permits for new construction and renovations.

Planning • Help property owners and developers determine what they can do with their land.

• Conduct building and plumbing inspections to ensure new and renovated buildings are properly built and safe.

• Ensure property throughout the City is used in a way that promotes walkable neighbourhoods, a variety of housing types, access to services, local jobs and protection of the environment.

Contacts and info Building permits and inspection inquiries

Did you know?

604.927.5444 building@portcoquitlam.ca www.portcoquitlam.ca/building

Building inspection request line (24 hrs) 604.927.5445

Development and land use inquiries 604.927.5442 planning@portcoquitlam.ca www.portcoquitlam.ca/planning

Property information search, including zoning and OCP designation www.portcoquitlam.ca/pocomap

Zoning bylaw www.portcoquitlam.ca/bylaws

1 Our Official Community Plan includes policies focused on strengthening our City’s walkable downtown as the heart of our community.

3

2 Getting a building permit before you build or alter a structure is not only required by law, but it will protect your investment and the safety of occupants. Many home renos require a permit. Find out why you should get a permit at: www.portcoquitlam.ca/building.

About 58% of the homes in Port Coquitlam are townhouses or apartments, and the rest are single-family homes.

City of Port Coquitlam

City Services Spotlight 25

Engineering & Operations Some of the ways we serve you: Transportation & Drainage • Build and maintain roads and sidewalks to help you get around.

• Maintain dikes and other flood protection systems.

Water & Sewer

Solid Waste & Recycling • Collect garbage, recycling and green waste.

• Encourage residents to send less to the landfill to keep disposal costs down and help the environment.

Did you know?

1

You can look up a property’s zoning, tax history, aerial photo and more on PoCoMAP on your computer or mobile device. Info: www.portcoquitlam.ca/pocomap.

• Keep drinking water clean and safe.

• Provide environmentally-sound and reliable sewage collection.

Other Engineering Services • Keep the online mapping service PoCoMAP up-to-date.

• Ensure development permits and applications related to infrastructure are processed efficiently.

Contacts and info Earth-friendly programs / living green www.portcoquitlam.ca/green

Garbage, recycling and green carts

2

Port Coquitlam has won a provincial award and was recognized as a BC leader for our waste reduction initiatives. Learn how to watch your waste-line: www.portcoquitlam.ca/wasteloss.

3

City Info Guide 2013-2014

Engineering & Operations maintains 17.8 km of dikes, 464 km of roads and lanes, 213.1 km of water mains and 178.3 km of sewer mains.

604.927.5496 operations@portcoquitlam.ca www.portcoquitlam.ca/garbage www.portcoquitlam.ca/greencart www.portcoquitlam.ca/recycling www.portcoquitlam.ca/wasteloss

General inquiries 604.927.5420 engineering@portcoquitlam.ca www.portcoquitlam.ca/engineering

PoCoMAP www.portcoquitlam.ca/pocomap

Water/sewer system, flood control, roads, traffic signals and street lights 604.927.5496 operations@portcoquitlam.ca

City Services Spotlight 26

Fire & Emergency Services Some of the ways we serve you: Fire Protective Services

Emergency Preparedness

• Educate the community about fire prevention and smoke alarms.

• Keep the City prepared for a major disaster, such as an earthquake or flood.

• Conduct life safety inspections of businesses.

• Provide free emergency preparedness courses for residents.

Emergency Services • Respond to a wide range of emergencies including fires, medical calls, traffic accidents and rescues.

• Keep the fire halls and equipment in good repair.

• Ensure fire crews are properly trained.

Contacts and info Emergencies 9-1-1

Emergency preparedness – free community courses or volunteering 604.927.5466 fire@portcoquitlam.ca www.portcoquitlam.ca/ep

Fire prevention information www.portcoquitlam.ca/fire

General inquiries

604.927.5466 fire@portcoquitlam.ca www.portcoquitlam.ca/fire

Hot Summer Nights neighbourhood outreach program 604.927.5466 fire@portcoquitlam.ca

Did you know?

1 Free one-day emergency preparedness courses are offered four Saturdays a year for residents. Info: www.portcoquitlam.ca/ep.

2 LISA KING/TRI-CITIES NOW

Crews go to medical calls in a specially equipped F-150 pickup so that the big engines are available for fires.

Our firefighters cook up an excellent salmon dinner. Drop by their barbecue at the next Canada Day event!

3

City of Port Coquitlam

City Services Spotlight 27

Parks & Recreation Some of the ways we serve you: Recreation Services • Operate the City’s recreation and culture facilities, including pools, arenas, youth and seniors’ centres, arts village, library and others.

• Provide leisure programs for children, adults and seniors of all abilities.

Parks & Facility Services

Park Planning & Design

• Maintain City sports fields, parks, trails, playgrounds and other green spaces.

• Responsible for the City cemetery operations.

• Keep City buildings in good repair.

• Plan, construct and renovate parks, trails, sports fields and green spaces.

• Coordinate acquisition of parkland.

• Provide volunteer opportunities.

Contacts and info

• Coordinate civic events such as festivals and concerts.

Facility bookings 604.927.7903

Field closures

Did you know?

1

Dogs can run off-leash at two dog parks in the City. Info: www.portcoquitlam.ca/dogpark.

2

The annual Rotary May Day Grande Parade is the second largest parade in Metro Vancouver. May Day Festival info: www.portcoquitlam.ca/mayday.

604.927.5455 www.portcoquitlam.ca/sportsfields

General inquiries

604.927.7900 parksrec@portcoquitlam.ca www.portcoquitlam.ca/recreation

Hyde Creek Recreation Centre (indoor pool / weight room) 604.927.7946

Leigh Square Community Arts Village 604.927.8400 www.portcoquitlam.ca/leighsquare

Port Coquitlam Rec Complex (arena)

604.927.7970

3 Kids need to be active for 60 minutes every day to stay healthy and focused. Check out our after-school programs in the Leisure Guide: www.portcoquitlam.ca/leisureguide.

City Info Guide 2013-2014

Program info and registration

604.927.PLAY (7529) Registration: www.experienceit.ca Info: www.portcoquitlam.ca/leisureguide

Terry Fox Library 604.927.7999

Volunteering

604.927.7906 volunteer@portcoquitlam.ca www.portcoquitlam.ca/volunteer

City Services Spotlight 28

RCMP & Community Policing Some of the ways we serve you: • Respond to emergencies and protect citizens and property.

• Investigate crimes.

• Work with the community to reduce crime and improve safety.

• Provide security at public events.

• Operate two Community Police Stations that respond to public inquiries, document non-emergency crimes, and run crime prevention programs such as bike and foot patrols.

• Help reduce graffiti through graffiti removal and reporting programs.

Contacts and info Emergencies 9-1-1

Community Police Station - Downtown

Did you know?

604.927.2383 communitypolice@portcoquitlam.ca

Community Police Station - Northside 604.927.5172 communitypolice@portcoquitlam.ca

General inquiries

604.945.1550 www.portcoquitlam.ca/policing www.coquitlam.rcmp.ca

You can report graffiti online and also get a discount on paint to cover it up. Info: www.portcoquitlam.ca/policing.

1

2 Coquitlam RCMP have increased enforcement of distracted driving in recent years.

Drivers distracted by using cell phones or other activities are the third leading cause of fatal car crashes in BC.

Reporting graffiti

www.portcoquitlam.ca/policing

3

It’s easy to set up a Block Watch program to help reduce crime in your neighbourhood or multi-family complex. Info: www.portcoquitlam.ca/policing.

City of Port Coquitlam

Important

29

contacts

In the event of a major disaster or emergency in our community, tune your radio to CKNW 980 AM for emergency instructions. Information specific to Port Coquitlam will be broadcast at regular intervals.

Emergency contacts POLICE, FIRE AND AMBULANCE EMERGENCY USE ONLY

9.1.1

BEARS/DANGEROUS WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS 1.877.952.7277 Conservation Officer Service DOWNED ELECTRICAL WIRES BC Hydro

1.888.769.3766

GAS LEAKS Fortis BC OPERATIONS DIVISION AFTER-HOURS EMERGENCIES Transportation, Drainage, Flood Control, Sanitary Sewer System, Water System etc.

1.888.224.2710 604.543.6700

City departments and community contacts ACCOUNTS PAYABLE BUILDING PERMITS & INSPECTIONS 24-hour Inspection Request Line BUSINESS LICENCES BYLAW ENFORCEMENT CEMETERY SERVICES CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER CITY COUNCIL & MAYOR CITY HALL (2580 Shaughnessy Street) CORPORATE OFFICER (City Clerk) DEVELOPMENT SERVICES (#200-2564 Shaughnessy Street) Planning Division Building Division DOG LICENCES ENGINEERING & OPERATIONS Operations Division (1737 Broadway Street) Drainage & Flood Control, Roads & Lanes, Sanitary Sewer & Sidewalks Street Lighting & Traffic Signal Outages, Traffic Inquiries, Water System After-hours Emergency Garbage/Recycling/Green Cart Collection EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS COORDINATOR

604.927.5431 604.927.5444 604.927.5445 604.927.5238 604.927.5440 604.927.5251 604.927.5410 604.927.5410 604.927.5411 604.927.5421

604.927.5442 604.927.5444 604.927.5425 604.927.5420 604.927.5496 604.927.5496 604.543.6700 604.927.5496 604.927.5460

FINANCE Accounts Payable 604.927.5431 Property Taxes, Water/Sewer Payments 604.927.5425 Purchasing 604.927.5430 FIRE & EMERGENCY SERVICES #1 Fire Hall / Administration (1725 Broadway Street) #2 Fire Hall (3196 Toronto Street) Emergency calls only 9.1.1 Non-emergency / Administration 604.927.5466

City Info Guide 2013-2014

GARBAGE/RECYCLING/GREEN CART COLLECTION HERITAGE SOCIETY HUMAN RESOURCES LIBRARY (Terry Fox Library) LEIGH SQUARE COMMUNITY ARTS VILLAGE Parks and Recreation Administration (#1100-2253 Leigh Square) The Outlet (#2100-2253 Leigh Sq) Ticketmaster (walk in only) The Gathering Place (#1100-2253 Leigh Sq) POLICE (RCMP) Emergency calls only Non-emergency Block Watch Business Liaison Citizen Crime Watch Patrol Community Police Stations: Downtown: 2581 Mary Hill Road Northside: 3312 Coast Meridian Road Crime Prevention Unit Recruiting – Auxiliary Program PROPERTY TAXES, WATER/SEWER PAYMENTS SIMON FRASER HEALTH UNIT PARKS & RECREATION Administration Office Facility Bookings Field Closures Hyde Creek Recreation Centre (1379 Laurier Ave.) Park and Tree Maintenance Port Coquitlam Recreation Complex (2150 Wilson Ave.) Registration Line

604.927.5496 604.927.8403 604.927.5417 604.927.7999 604.927.7900 604.927.8400 604.927.7900 9.1.1 604.945.1550 604.945.1579 604.945.1574 604.945.1586 604.927.2383 604.927.5172 604.945.1586 604.945.1550 604.927.5425 604.777.8700 604.927.7900 604.927.7903 604.927.5455 604.927.7946 604.927.5480 604.927.7970 604.927.PLAY

Home sweet home Bryan and Erica moved to Port Coquitlam seven years ago and live in the Birchland Manor neighbourhood with their son Brody, daughter Lea and their dog Milo. We talked to them about their experience as Port Coquitlam residents.

What do you like best about living in Port Coquitlam?

Our neighbours! When we moved in we were the “new kids” because everyone around us has lived here for so long. The atmosphere in our neighbourhood is amazing and many of our neighbours are like family to us. The trees, central location and beautiful mountain views just add to the charm.

What are your favourite things to do in Port Coquitlam?

Walk to the many parks around our house with the kids, go to Me-n-Ed’s Pizza and get dessert at Bakehouse Bakery.

What hidden gems or special places have you discovered while living here?

There is a great little forested area near Birchland Elementary that opens to a beautiful clearing (someone should have a wedding there!), and brunch at the Gillnetter is second to none!

2580 Shaughnessy Street Port Coquitlam, British Columbia Canada V3C 2A8

www.portcoquitlam.ca

Tel 604.927.5411 Fax: 604.927.5360 info@portcoquitlam.ca