Public service announcement from the city of Kelowna on May 5, 2020:
Holding Public Hearings during the COVID-19 pandemic presents unique challenges due to physical distancing guidelines and orders regarding gathering of people.
Along with meeting these obligations, local governments must continue to satisfy the rules of procedural fairness and legislative requirements under the Local Government Act that enable public participation and support transparent decision-making.
Council has approved modified processes for the Tuesday, May 12 public hearings and regular meetings for development applications. These changes were put in place prior to the Province allowing for public hearings to be held electronically.
Each application will be considered individually, facilitating only those individuals interested in that item to attend at a specific time. The detailed schedule can be found at www.kelowna.ca/council. Physical distancing will be met with some Councillors participating electronically and by continuing to block off some rows and seats in Council Chambers.
The technology in Council Chambers also allows for the public to watch the live audio and video broadcast on www.kelowna.ca/council.
Correspondence will be accepted in writing (email to mayorandcouncil@kelowna.ca or by letter) or by phone until noon, Tuesday, May 12.