The City of Nanaimo and Malaspina University-College sign agreement

The City of Nanaimo and Malaspina University-College have signed a "letter of understanding concerning development issues."

Under the agreement, Malaspina will ensure that the City receives "equivalent funding" in lieu of Development Cost Charges, subject to funding by the Ministry of Advanced Education, Training and Technology.

Malaspina also agrees to apply for a development permit for all developments on campus. The review process will include environmental issues, but exclude building design review. In addition, Malaspina will provide the City with information on servicing demands and requirements, and will accept all responsibility for public safety as it relates to building design and construction.

Under the College and Institute Act, Malaspina is considered a Crown Agency and is technically exempt from municipal bylaws governing property development but is, instead, bound by the B.C. Building Code.

"I’m glad we’ve been able to resolve some long-standing issues between us," said Shelley Garside, vice-chair of the Malaspina University-College Board. "It’s important to us to have a good working relationship with the City."

"Council and I are most pleased at this positive resolution of long outstanding concerns," said Mayor Gary Korpan. "We believe this initiates a new era of cooperation between Malaspina University-College and the City of Nanaimo."

Malaspina’s Nanaimo campus comprises a total of 142 acres.