January 13, 2026
Town of Sidney Council Meeting Highlights: January 12, 2026
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 sidney.civicweb.net/Portal for the full agenda, minutes, and webcast.
Council supports temporary overnight warming centre in Nell Horth Room next to library for remaining winter season
Council has approved a proposal to establish a temporary overnight warming centre at the Nell Horth Room (10091 Resthaven Drive) adjacent to the Sidney and North Saanich Library, to operate during periods of extreme cold weather for the remainder of the winter season. The nighttime hours of operation would not overlap with library services. The proposal is subject to approval by the Beacon Community Services Board on January 22. If approved, the warming centre would be operated by Beacon Community Services and could be ready for activation as early as February.
The warming centre would provide a safe space with seating, access to washrooms, and light refreshments during extreme cold events, with eligible costs reimbursed by the Province. A temporary storage container may also be installed on site to allow individuals to securely store personal belongings while using the facility.
This interim measure addresses immediate winter needs while longer-term planning continues for an Extreme Weather Response Shelter, which would include overnight sleeping mats during extreme weather. Staff are currently assessing St Andrews Church (9691 Fourth St) as a potential site for the 2026/27 winter season and will report back to Council with proposed public engagement plans should the site be considered feasible.
Council has also approved additional investment in Stay Warm / Stay Dry kits, which are shared with people experiencing homelessness in the winter.
Council to consider dog park at Iroquois Park in 2026 budget
Following two rounds of public engagement in 2025, Council is advancing a proposal for an off-leash dog enclosure in Iroquois Park for consideration in the 2026 budget. Community members were asked to provide feedback on potential locations at Iroquois Park or Tulista Park, with stronger support expressed for Iroquois Park. The small enclosure would be fully fenced and include separate areas for large and small dogs.
The need for this amenity was first identified in Sidney’s 2018 Parks Master Plan, with residents emphasizing the importance of an off-leash dog area in East Sidney, which would be within walking distance of many community members.