Prescribed burn preparation planned for Fox Mountain

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

The BC Wildfire Service, in partnership with Williams Lake First Nation, will be conducting a 2-hectare prescribed burn in preparation for future maintenance treatments on Fox Mountain. Preparation will take place on either side of Fox Mountain Road before Mason Road.

Preparation for the prescribed burn will reduce wildfire risk and prepare the area for future ignitions. This project will maintain a previous fuel management treatment that was completed in 2010.

Ignitions for this site may begin as early as April 19, 2024 and continue until May 3, 2024. Ignitions will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for quick smoke dissipation. Smoke and flames will be visible from the city of Williams Lake and surrounding areas.

 While burning is underway, traffic control will be on-site to ensure the safety of public and firefighters, short delays may occur.

 To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone.

 You can follow the latest wildfire news:

• on the free BC Wildfire Service public mobile app, available for Apple (iOS) and Android devices
• on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
• on Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

WL Council Highlights - April 16th mtg

Present: Mayor Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Flaspohler, Lyons, Moses and Nelson

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

Mayor Rathor recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw.

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous Williams Lake City Council meeting held on April 9th, 2024 were  received/adopted

Delegation:

Laurie Brown, Letwilc Manager and Judy Ventry, Esk'etemc FN Health Director appeared before Council regarding a presentation on Letwilc Ren Semec Centre Recovery House

Following their presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor, on behalf of Council, thanked the delegation for their time/information

Response to Delegations:

1) Council received for information the presentation from Laurie Brown, Letwilc Manager and Judy Ventry, Esk'etemc Health Director regarding the Letwilc Ren Semec Centre Recovery House; a tour be arranged for Members of Council of the Recovery House and information about the Recovery House be shared on the City's website 

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated April 11 and 12, 2024

2) Council gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings to:

* 2024-2028 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2412, 2024

* 2024 Municipal Tax Rate Bylaw No. 2413, 2024

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillors Boehm, Nelson

3) Council referred a report of the Corporate Officer regarding the annual review of the Council Code of Conduct Policy to Committee of the Whole for further review/discussion

4) Council approved entering into the proposed Into-Plane Aviation Mobile Fuel Agreement with the Province, as represented by the Minister of Forests, for a three-year term effective April 1, 2024 through March 31, 2027 for the amount of $155,309 annually, adjusted going forward by CPI, with an option to renew for a further two years

5) Council provided early approval of the Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrade Phase 1 project to ensure the project can be started as soon as possible and awarded the Wastewater Treatment Plant Aeration Upgrade Project to CHB Services for the amount of $386,170, including applicable taxes, in accordance with their bid of March 28, 2024 for a total project cost, including contingency, of $460,521.50

6) Council endorsed a recommendation from the Central Cariboo Joint Committee, as follows:

That pursuant to Central Cariboo Joint Committee Report #03-2024, the agenda item summary of Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, Cariboo Regional District dated February 20, 2024 be received and the proposed Central Cariboo Recreation Management Agreement between the Cariboo Regional District and the City of Williams Lake be renewed for a five-year term (2024-2028); and further, that the Mayor and Corporate Officer be authorized to sign the Agreement on behalf of the City.

7) Council received the minutes of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting held February 28, 2024

8) Late Items -- 

a) Council proclaimed April 14-20, 2024 as "National Volunteer Week" in the City of Williams Lake

b) At the request of Councillor Nelson -- Council requested Staff to review Jubilee Place existing density zone with the intent of 60 units or more and Staff report back within 90 days on the feasibility to increase density within the CD-21 zone 

10 ) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of April 16th, 2024

Members of Council provided verbal reports as to their recent activities

Council adjourned at 7:35pm

Tŝilhqot’in Nation Declares State of Local Emergency Due to Opioid Crisis

Courtesy of the Tŝilhqot’in National Government:

The Tŝilhqot’in National Government (TNG) has declared a state of local emergency in response to recent deaths in communities last week. This order was issued for all six Tŝilhqot’in communities and provides the Nation with the opportunity to access additional government support.

The toxic drug supply combined with the harms of historical and present-day colonialism are contributing to higher rates of death from toxic drugs amongst Indigenous peoples compared to other populations in the province. Treatment facilities lack the capacity to take on new patients. TNG calls on all ministries and agencies to work together to end this loss of lives.

Nits’ilʔin (Chief) Joe Alphonse, O.B.C, LL.D. (hon.), Tribal Chair of the Tŝilhqot’in National Government stated:

“Drugs are a major problem in our communities. As Tŝilhqot’in leaders, we feel that our hands are tied. We need to act to not lose anymore lives. The RCMP know who the dealers are and need to deal with this. A State of Emergency is an opportunity to address this crisis.”

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings: Week of April 15-19, 2024

During the week of April 15-19, 2024 -- the following local governments' or Boards' of Education of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be holding meetings, as follows:

Quesnel - Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee (Regular Meeting) on Wednesday, April 17th at 9:30am in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Audit Report and 2023 Financial Statements

* 2024 Five-Year Financial Plan Bylaw

* 2024 Tax Rate Bylaw

View the full Agenda here

School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Board of Education Meeting on Wednesday, April 17th at 7:00pm in the SD28 Boardroom (401 North Star Rd, Quesnel).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 16th at 6:00pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Laurie Brown, Letwilc Manager and Judy Ventry, Esk'etemc Health Director for Interior Health re: Presentation on Letwilc Ren Semec Centre Recovery House

* 2024-2028 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2412, 2024 and 2024 Municipal Tax Rate Bylaw No. 2413, 2024 -- for consideration of 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings

* Annual Code of Conduct Review

* Pre-Approval & Award of Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades Phase 1 and Aeration Upgrade

* Recommendation from Central Cariboo Joint Committee -- renew Management Agreement of Recreation Complex between City of Williams Lake/Cariboo Regional District from 2024-2028

Editor's note -- the Cariboo Regional District Board agreed, at its' March 22nd meeting, to renew the Management Agreement for another 4 year term (2024-2028)

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District - Connectivity Committee/Regular Meeting on Monday, April 15th at 1:30pm in the Cariboo Regional District Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake)

On the Agenda:

* Delegation - Ministry of Citizen's Services (Jeanne Holliss, Rachel Greenspan and Megan Chadwick from the Ministry of Citizens’ Services will attend remotely to discuss status of applications, planned activity within the Cariboo Regional District, and Connecting Communities BC funding)

* Discussion Items -- Plans for addressing unserved gaps/last mile and provincial perspective on local government relationships with TELUS

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo RD Board Highlights - April 12th mtg

Present: Chair Wagner and Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, LeBourdais, Richmond, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Coleman, Alternate Directors Roodenburg and Nelson (Quesnel, Williams Lake)

Meeting called to order at 9:45am

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw and welcomed Alternate Directors Roodenburg and Nelson (Quesnel, Williams Lake) to today's meeting of the Cariboo Regional District Board 

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous Regional District Board Meeting were received/adopted

Business:

1) The Board rejected 1st/2nd Readings to South Cariboo Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5464, 2024 and South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5465, 2024 for property at 4710 Kitwanga Drive in Area "G"

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director Bachmeier (Area "B") 

2) The Board gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings to South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5455, 2023 for property at 3364 Cariboo Hwy 97 in Area "G"

3) The Board adopted Quesnel Fringe Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5448, 2023 for property on Jasper Street in Area "A"

4) The Board approved DVP/Development Variance Permit #7-2024 for property at 4787 Leflar Road in Area "A"

5) The Board approved Development Permit #9-2024 for property at 1381 Sam Toy Road in Area "A"

6) The Board agreed to submit a Provincial Agricultural Land Commission application for subdivision pertaining to Lot 1, District Lots 3225, 8685 and 8686, Lillooet District, Plan KAP45337 for property at 3281 English Road in Area "E"

7) The Board agreed to support a liquor primary license for 6046 Highway 24 – Lot 2, District Lot 4038, Lillooet District, Plan 35085 for property at 6046 Highway 24 in Area "L"

8) The Board agreed to participate as a sub-applicant to the 2024 CEPF Evacuation Route Planning project. Further, that the Board approve Williams Lake First Nation, as the primary applicant, to apply for, receive, and manage the grant funding on the Cariboo Regional District’s behalf

AND THAT the District of Wells' application for emergency egress via the Purden Connector be supported by the Cariboo Regional District

AND FINALLY THAT a discussion about high-level planning with other stakeholders for emergency egress routes in each electoral area in the Regional District be included on an upcoming Board agenda.

Meeting recessed at 10:55am

Meeting resumed at 11:04am

9) The Board received/ratified Monthly Expenditures Board Summary Report and Mastercard Summary Report for the month of March 2024, in the amount of $1,609,228.60.00

10) The Board dealt with Year Round Grant for Assistance applications, as follows:

i) Tatlayoko Field Station Society - $1,000 from Area "J"

ii) Tyee Lake Community Association - $1,000 from Area "D"

iii) Eagle View Riding Club Gymkhana Series - $1,000 from Areas "E" and "K"

iv) Kersley Players - $1,000 from Areas "A", "B" and "I"

v) Anahim Lake Community Association - $1,000 from Area "J"

vi) Williams Lake Studio Theatre Society - $1,000 from Areas D,E,F divided equally

11) The Board agreed to submit NDIT/Northern Development Initiative Trust applications, as follows:

* Lightning Creek Ski Club Event Centre Timing System Phase 2

* Anahim Lake Community Hall Potable Water

* Gold Rush Trail Outdoor Sports Marketing Campaign

12) The Board assigned speakers to 2024 NCLGA Resolutions for Cariboo RD Resolutions

13) The Board received a number of "Information-Only" items and after discussion, referred the corporate sponsorship request of the Billy Barkers Days Society to the North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus for consideration

14) The Board endorsed recommendations from previously held Committees/Commissions meetings', as follows:

a) Committee of the Whole recommendations:

* That the draft 2023-2027 Engagement Strategy be endorsed, as presented at the March 21, 2024 Committee of the Whole meeting

* That the Cariboo Regional District provide support to Atlantic Power in Williams Lake in operating the biomass plant there and request the appropriate BC Cabinet Ministers/Premier to provide flexibility in contract negotiations to ensure the long-term viability of Atlantic Power to Williams Lake and the Cariboo Region.

b) North Cariboo Joint Committee recommendations:

* That the 2024 North Cariboo Recreation and Parks capital plan be amended to include repairs to the sprinkler system at the soccer complex at an estimated cost of $13,500

* That the Cariboo Regional District Board and Quesnel City Council enter into the attached five-year management agreement with the Alex Fraser Park Society regarding the management of Alex Fraser Park, and that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreement

* That the City of Quesnel, as the Manager of the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Service, enter into the attached 5- year agreement with the Quesnel Jr A. Hockey Club for use of the West Fraser Centre

* That the proposed North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Management agreement between the Cariboo Regional District and the City of Quesnel be renewed for a five-year term (2024-2028) and that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreement

15) The Board adopted Forest Grove Fire Protection Service Area Expansion Bylaw No. 5474, 2024 and 100 Mile House Fire Protection Service Boundary Expansion Bylaw No. 5466, 2024

16) The Board gave 3 Readings to and adopted the following 2 Bylaws:

* Cariboo Regional District Water Rates Bylaw No. 5472, 2024 (Areas A,E,F,G,H,K,L)

* Cariboo Regional District Sewer Rates Bylaw No. 5473, 2024 (Areas A,D,G,K)

Meeting recessed for lunch at 12:07pm

Meeting resumed at 12:49pm

Directors' reported on their recent activities 

Closed Board Session:

At 1:21pm -- the Board recessed to a Closed Meeting as per Section 90(1c - labour) of the Community Charter

Resume Open Board Session:

At 1:50pm -- the Board resumed its' Open Meeting

The Board adjourned at 1:51pm

CCRHD Board Highlights - April 12th mtg

Present: 

Chair A. Richmond/Vice Chair M. Sjostrom and Directors Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, LeBourdais, Wagner, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Coleman, Smith and Alternate Directors Roodenburg and Nelson (Quesnel, Williams Lake) 

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional, unceded territory of the Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw and he welcomed Alternate Directors Roodenburg and Nelson (Quesnel, Williams Lake) to today's meeting of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital Board 

Meeting agenda adopted 

Minutes of the previous CCRHD Board Meeting were received/adopted 

Business: 

1) The Board received a number of "Information Only" items and took no further action on those items 

2) The Board agreed to a request from Northern Health for replacement of replacement of the Operating Room Surgical tower at the GR Baker Hospital in Quesnel for a total of $307,000 with the CCRHD financial share being $122,800 and directed that the necessary Capital Expenditure Bylaw be brought forward at the May 3rd CCRHD Board for 3 Readings/Adoption

The Chair reported on his recent activities and responded to questions of Directors'... 

The Board adjourned at 9:44am

Cariboo RD Committee of the Whole Session - April 11th mtg

Present:

Chair M. Wagner and Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, LeBourdais, Richmond, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries and Alternate Directors Roodenburg and Nelson (Quesnel, Williams Lake)

Meeting called to order at 1:30pm

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional, unceded territory of the Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw and she welcomed Alternate Directors Roodenburg and Nelson (Quesnel, Williams Lake) to today's meeting of the Committee

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the Committee of the Whole meeting held March 21st, 2024 were received/adopted

Delegation(s) or Presentation(s): None 

Committee Business:

The Committee discussed the following matters:

* Board's Strategic Plan

* Update on Audio-Visual upgrades to Boardroom

Meeting recessed at 1:53pm

Meeting resumed at 2:00pm

Closed Committee Session:

At 2:00pm -- the Committee recessed to a Closed Committee Session as per Section 90(1j - information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter

At 3:40pm-- the Committee rose from its' Closed Session and resumed its' Open Session

The Committee adjourned at 3:41pm

Quesnel Council Highlights - April 9th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Financial Sustainability & Audit Committee

Council approved two recommendations coming out of FSAC:

• Council reversed a previous decision to allocate $5000 for Mayor Paull to move local artist, Bert DeVink's moose sculpture from Capilano College to Quesnel. This endeavour will no longer be funded by the taxpayer; the relocation will be funded through private donations.
• $20,000 from the carbon neutral reserve was allocated to an electronic vehicle charging station at City Hall, to accommodate the new electronic fleet vehicle.

Surplus 2023

Council approved the following allocation for 2023 surplus funds:

• $100,000 to reduce 2024 taxation;
• $60,266 to bring the Snow Reserve up to 30% of the snow budget;
• $337,304 to the Tax and Community Stabilization Reserve;
• $337,304 to the Capital Reinvestment Reserve; and 
• $337,304 to remain in surplus.

TOTAL $1,172,178

668 Doherty Drive Parking Report

Following the February 20, 2024 Public Hearing regarding Bylaws 1957 and 1958 [Conversion of a commercial building to a 17-unit apartment building], the issue of parking required resolve.  Council was satisfied with the proposed solution to address parking concerns presented by Staff and approved the development permit subject to the following amendments to parking:

• 3 onsite parking stalls, and an additional 8 stalls to be located at 290 Anderson Drive and covenanted for 668 Doherty use.

Business Improvement Area Levies for 2024

Council approved the following grants to the Business Improvement Areas for 2024 to be collected by local service property tax levies provided all other conditions of the bylaws are met by the Business Associations prior to payment of the grants.

• $72,773 - Quesnel Downtown Association
• $80,000 - South Quesnel Business Association
• $40,800 - West Quesnel Business Association

COUNCIL MEETING VIDEO

State of Local Emergency rescinded at "Terra Ridge" in Williams Lake

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake has lifted a State of Local Emergency (SOLE) and subsequent evacuation order and alerts originally issued on Sept. 29, 2023 due to potential land movement and structural integrity at 500 Wotzke Drive, known as Terra Ridge.

“The emergency powers initially required to secure the site, ensure access to the site, and access emergency funding are no longer required,” said Director of Protective Services Evan Dean.

“All of the professional engineering reports to date indicate this is part of the greater known historic landslide and while there may be continued slow land movement, there is no longer a concern of immediate or imminent risk to the occupants and engineers recommend continued monitoring of the area.”

A ‘Do Not Occupy’ order will remain in place for the four units previously under evacuation order. The City will continue to work with the Terra Ridge strata and residents on next steps based on the engineers’ advice, as well as continue to work with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and our local partners to investigate a long-term solution.

To date, in coordination with the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, the City has supported the Terra Ridge strata by facilitating nearly $338,000 in emergency Provincial funding to provide security services, emergency support services (ESS) and five engineering reports, in total. As well, the City created greater awareness of the issue with the Provincial Government, both at the staff and political level.

“While concerns were raised by some residents about time taken to conclude the SOLE, this can be attributed, largely, to the time needed by professional engineers to do their due diligence and ensure accuracy of reporting,” Dean said.

The City is continuing to monitor the situation from its Emergency Operations Centre and will provide updates as they are available.

WL Council Highlights - April 9th mtg

Present: Mayor Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Delainey (entered meeting at 6:10pm), Flaspohler, Lyons Moses and Nelson

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

Mayor Rathor recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw. 

Public Hearing - 6:00pm

1) Zoning Amendment Bylaw #2407, 2024 (98 3rd Avenue South)

The Corporate Officer explained the purpose and intent of Bylaw #2407, 2024

The Mayor called 3 times for public input -- none received

Bylaw referred to Council for consideration of 3rd Reading

Public Hearing adjourned at 6:04pm

Regular Council Meeting - 6:04pm

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous Williams Lake City Council meeting held on March 26th, 2024 were  received/adopted

Matters from Public Hearing:

1) Following a Public Hearing held earlier in the meeting -- Council gave 3rd Reading to and adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw #2407, 2024

Delegations:

1) Maureen Straza, Accessibility Advisory Committee Chair appeared before Council to present the Accessibility Advisory Committee - 2023 Year-End Report

Following her presentation - a Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor thanked Ms. Straza for her presentation

2) Beth Holden, Dena Baumann and Frances McCoubrey from the Williams Lake Cycling Club appeared before Council to discuss the First Annual Women's Bikefest

Following their presentation - a Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor thanked the delegation for her presentation

Business Arising from Delegations:

1) Council received for information the report of the Accessibility Advisory Committee Chair and Legislative Services Assistant Coordinator dated February 27, 2024 regarding a summary of the AAC's goals and successes from 2023 

2) Council received for information the presentation from Beth Holden, Dena Baumann and Frances McCoubrey of the Williams Lake Cycling Club regarding the First Annual Women's Bikefest 

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated March 27, 28 and April 4, 2024

2) Council received the report of the Chief Financial Officer dated March 27, 2024 regarding the 2024 budget info and consultation session results

3) Council provided direction on the zoning amendment application to permit a permanent metal shipping container on the property at 3018 Edwards Drive and resolved:

That Council receives the application from Rose Lamarche, requesting to amend the City of Williams Lake Zoning Bylaw No. 1825, 2002 by amending Section 304.1 ‘Permitted Land Use’ in Two Family Residential zone to allow a permanent metal shipping container as a permitted land use on the subject property located at 3018 Edwards Drive, legally described as LOT 5 DISTRICT LOT 8843 CARIBOO DISTRICT PLAN 12213, and further; first and second readings be given to the Zoning Bylaw No. 2411, 2024, and staff be directed to issue a notice of the application to surrounding property owners and tenants within a 100-metre radius of the subject property and Public Hearing be scheduled for May 28th, 2024 at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers of City Hall. 

4) Council approved entering into a renewed agreement with the Cariboo Regional District for the City’s use of the Regional District Pine Valley Sewer System for the purposes of the Williams Lake Regional Airport

5) Council awarded the request for proposal for the purchase of a 2025 114SD Freightliner single axle dump truck to Velocity Truck Centre for the purchase price of $337,636.00 including all applicable taxes

6) Council approved the use of City staff and equipment for the hauling of material for the 2024 Indoor Rodeo event

7) Council directed that the May 7th, 2024 Regular Council Meeting be cancelled to allow Council members to attend the “Nenqayni Chi’s Deni Wedli” Let’s Live Indigenous - Canadian History Through a Tsilhqot’in Lens” event

8) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of April 9th, 2024 and at the request of Councillor Moses -- Staff were directed to prepare a Proclamation declaring May 17th, 2024 as "International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia" in the City of Williams Lake as well as changing the exterior lighting at City Hall on May 17th to pink, in celebration of this day

Members of Council provided verbal reports on their recent activities

Council adjourned at 7:31pm

WLFN issues letter to Quesnel Mayor/Council re: Residential School Denialism

Courtesy of the Williams Lake First Nation:

Trigger Warning -- the following discusses Residential Schools and may be triggering for some.  It is ok to seek help.

Indian Residential School Survivors Society -- 1-866-925-4419

Hope for Wellness HelpLine -- 1-855-242-3310

On Tuesday, April 2nd -- Quesnel City Council met to address claims brought forward by the Lhtako Dene Nation, that the Mayor of Quesnel - Ron Paull - and his wife, were distributing literature which denies the harm that Indian Residential Schools have done to generations of Indigenous people. The video of the Quesnel City Council meeting can be viewed here

Leadership and Elders from Lhtako Dene Nation, Nazko First Nation, and other surrounding communities filled the council gallery to share stories of the horrors and abuse suffered at residential schools, and the lasting impact on their communities and families. In response, Williams Lake First Nation has issued a letter to the City of Quesnel and its elected leadership, condemning the distribution of denialist literature, and requesting that the City meet with the St. Joseph’s Mission (SJM) Residential School Investigation team, for education and healing purposes. The letter states:

"Many of those students [who attended SJM] were taken from the communities of Lhtako Dene, Nazko Dene, Lhoosk’uz Dene, ?Esdilagh, and other communities on which the city of Quesnel and Cariboo Regional District are now located. Some of those students perished during their time at SJM and were never returned to their home communities and families. Nor did they receive proper ceremony and burial after their passing"

The letter from Williams Lake First Nation to Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull and Quesnel City Councillors can be read here

Meanwhile -- Williams Lake First Nation Kukpi7 (Chief) Willie Sellars also attended a formal ceremony on Easter Sunday at Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc, to witness the signing of a covenant between Tk’emlúps and the Catholic Church in relation to return of archival records. Archbishop J. Michael Miller points to the covenant as opening a new chapter between First Nations people and the Catholic church, which “recognizes its complicity in the Canadian government’s colonialist policies toward First Nations and the “resulting tragedies” from the residential school system.” 

Mr. Miller also explicitly addressed the growing denialist movement in Canada, and said that he was distressed by this movement, and that the Catholic Church “do[es] not back up or support those who deny the tragic events in… residential schools,” he furthered to say that “there’s no question that this was a tragedy… and those who claim that it wasn’t I think are certainly misplaced in their judgment. 

Williams Lake First Nation is in ongoing investigation of the St. Joseph’s Mission and Onward Ranch locations, and has plans to conduct further work in 2024. To date over 150 potential unmarked graves, and 55 student deaths have been identified, in associated with the operation of the residential school.

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of April 8-12, 2024

During the week of April 8-12, 2024 -- the following local governments' or Boards' of Education of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be holding meetings:

Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 9th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue) or via Zoom.  When available, the Agenda can be accessed here

Quesnel - Special Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 9th following adjournment of April 9th, 2024 North Cariboo Joint Committee meeting in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Report of Finance Sustainability/Audit Committee Chair re: Committee Activities

* Consideration of report dealing with Budgeted Surplus for year ending 2023

* Parking Report regarding DP2023-63 Development Permit application for a proposed conversion of a commercial building into a 17-unit residential apartment with a parking variance (668 Doherty Drive)

* BIA Levies for 2024

* Street Closure for Car Show event in August 2024

** PLEASE NOTE ** -- the staff report regarding potential censure and other options against Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull will be presented at a future Quesnel City Council meeting and NOT at the April 9th Special Open Council Meeting, due to the complexities of preparing and presenting a report to Quesnel Council for its' consideration... 

View the full Agenda here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) -- Committees to meet as follows:

Finance & Facilities Committee – Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at 4:15 pm at the SD27 Board Office (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake)

Policy Committee – Tuesday, Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at 6:00 pm at the SD27 Board Office (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake).  

Education Committee – Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at 4:00 pm at the SD27 Board Office (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake).  

When available -- the Agendas for the above-referenced Committee Meetings can be viewed here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 9th at 6pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart Street).  On the Agenda:

1) Public Hearing to start at 6pm --  Zoning Amendment Application/98 Third Avenue South.  View the full Agenda package here

2) Regular Council (to commence upon adjournment of Public Hearing) -- on the Agenda:

* Consider matters from Public Hearing

* Delegations -- Maureen Straza, AAC Chair re Accessibility Advisory Committee - 2023 Year-End Report AND Beth Holden/Dena Baumann and Frances McCoubrey, Williams Lake Cycling Club re First Annual Women's Bikefest

* 2024 Budget Info and Consultation Session Results

* Zoning Amendment - 3018 Edwards Drive, Non-Compliance Permanent Metal Shipping Container (Direction from Council is being requested)

* Sewer Service Agreement with Regional District for the Williams Lake Regional Airport

* Interior Rodeo Event Association Request to Utilize City Equipment for the Annual Indoor Rodeo

 * Invitation from TNG to attend "Nenqayni Chi’s Deni Wedli” Let’s Live Indigenous - Canadian History Through a Tsilhqot’in Lens” event

View the full Agenda here

100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 9th at 5pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: 100 Mile House "Youth Initiative"

* Presentation of 2024-2028 "5 Year Financial Plan"

* Bylaw Officer's report for March 2024

* Letter from 100 Mile & District Outriders requesting a letter of support for a NDIT grant application

* "Freedom of the Municipality" bestowed upon former 100 Mile House Councillor Ralph Fossum

* Request from 100 Mile House Community Band for $500 donation

* 2 "Requests for Qualifications" 

* By-Election – Appointment of Election Officials 

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District: Meetings as noted below:

1) South Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Regular Meeting on Monday, April 11th at 11:00am in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue).  On the Agenda:

* In-Camera Session -- Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

2) South Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Monday, April 11th at 12:00pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation - 100 Mile Youth Initiative

* Action Item: 100 Mile & District Outriders

* Discussion Item: Request for indigenous athlete support signage at the South Cariboo Recreation Centre from the Tsqescen First Nation (Formerly Canim Lake Band)

View the full Agenda here

3) North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, April 9th at 3pm at the Cariboo RD Quesnel Office (102-410 Kinchant St., Quesnel).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation - Sandi Griffiths, District Manager - Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) re: update on MOTI projects and activities in the North Cariboo

* Information Item: Age-Friendly Community Designation Advantages - North Cariboo Seniors Council

View the full Agenda here

4) North Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, April 9th at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers.  On the Agenda:

* Third Party Operator Liquor License Agreement at West Fraser Centre

* Leisure Services Quarterly Report

* Letter from Quesnel Kangaroos – Request for dressing room space

View the full Agenda here

5) Committee of the Whole Meeting at 1:30pm on Thursday, April 11th in the Cariboo Regional District Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Discussion Item: CRD Strategic Plan

* Closed Committee Session -- Section 90(1j - information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

6) Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, April 12th at 9:30am in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom.  On the Agenda:

* Information Items (3) -- Interior Health - First Steps Early Pregnancy Triage Clinic Expands Services; Care at CMH - Letter from Williams Lake resident John Moon and CCRHD Delegations - Memorandum of Business

* Action Item: Northern Health Request for funding of GR Baker OR Surgical Tower Replacement

View the full Agenda here

7) Cariboo Regional District - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, April 12th following recess/adjournment of the CCRHD Board Meeting (whichever occurs first) in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom.  On the Agenda:

* Land Use Matters

* 2024 UBCM CEPF Evacuation Route Planning Regional Application

* Consideration of various Grant for Assistance Year Round Applications

* Consideration of 3 NDIT Applications

* Assign Speakers to NCLGA Resolutions at 2024 NCLGA Conference at Smithers, BC

* Consider endorsing recommendations from previous Committee/Commission meetings

* Forest Grove Fire Protection Service Area Expansion Bylaw No. 5474, 2024 (for consideration of 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings)

* CRD Water Rates Bylaws (for consideration of 3 Readings/Adoption)

* CRD Sewer Rates Bylaws (for consideration of 3 Readings/Adoption)

* Adopt 100 Mile House Fire Protection Service Boundary Expansion Bylaw No. 5466, 2024

View the full Agenda here

New year-round shelter coming to Williams Lake

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

People experiencing homelessness in Williams Lake will soon have access to 40 new shelter spaces as construction begins to repurpose the former Elks Hall into a year-round shelter.

“People who are sheltering outdoors should have access to a safe and warm place to stay,” said the Hon. Ravi Kahlon, BC's Minister of Housing. “When this new shelter opens, 40 people experiencing homelessness will be able to access beds, basic supports and connections to essential services in the community 24/7 all year round. Bringing people indoors and providing them with supports is crucial to ensuring that people get the care they need to move out of homelessness.”

Located on 98 1st Ave. S., the two-storey building will be leased by BC Housing and renovated to meet the needs of shelter residents. To expedite renovations, work will focus on converting the upper floor into a sheltering space for residents, with occupancy expected in fall 2024.

The Province, through BC Housing, is providing $1.2 million for the renovations and $2 million in annual operating funding through the Permanent Housing Plan.

“The City is committed to working together with all organizations and stakeholders to help ensure the vulnerable population is supported, and any issues related to the operation of this temporary facility are addressed in a timely fashion,” said Surinderpal Rathor, Mayor of Williams Lake. 

The new location will replace the temporary shelter operating at the Hamilton Hotel, which BC Housing leased for people to stay during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Canadian Mental Health Association – Cariboo Chilcotin Branch (CMHA-CC), which manages the shelter at the hotel, will operate the new shelter and provide staffing, support and referrals to services.

“There continues to be a strong need for more shelter spaces in Williams Lake and the new 98 1st Ave. S. location will help address this,” said Tereena Donahue, executive director of CMHA-CC. “We are excited to open the space and look forward to continuing our support for the Williams Lake community.”

While shelters provide immediate relief to people experiencing homelessness, they are not a long-term solution to the homelessness crisis. Through the Belonging in BC homelessness plan, it is government’s goal to move people into permanent, stable housing. Since 2017, the Province has nearly 78,000 homes that have been delivered or are underway, including 75 homes in Williams Lake.

Learn More:

To read the Belonging in BC plan, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BelongingStrategy.pdf

To learn more about government’s new Homes for People action plan, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HOUS0019-000436

To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for British Columbians, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/