Quesnel + Williams Lake Councils' to meet on April 1st, 2025

The following local governments' of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will meet during the week of March 31 - April 4, 2025, as follows:

Quesnel: 

1) Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 1st, 2025 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Committee Reports

* Development Permits - 720 Rita Rd, 19 North Fraser Drive and Dragon Hill Rd

* 2024 Annual Water Report

* Manganese Removal and Water Treatment Update

* 2025 Business Improvement Area Levies

* Dragon Mountain Communications Towers

* 2027 North Central Local Government Association Convention Bid

* Community Transit Partnership Agreements with Nazko First Nation and District of Wells 

* Cariboo Pulp & Paper Sewage Treatment Agreement

* Quesnel Regional Airport Lease – Ministry of Forests

* Strategic Plan & Operations Plan

* British Columbia Air Access Program Grant

* MS Self-Help Group - LeBourdais Park Community Flag Pole request

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) Policy/Bylaw Committee - Regular Meeting on Thursday, April 3rd, 2025 at 3:15pm in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall.  On the Agenda:

* Old Business: Time-sensitive electronic vote - Property Development Proposal

* Policies Review -- CCR-13-Banner Policy - DRAFT; CCR-18-Use of Transit Buses for Special Occasions; IWC-17-Council Committees & Appointments policy; CCR-16-Little People Fire Hydrants

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake: 

Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 1st, 2025 at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations -- Atlantic Power re: Updates on Williams Lake Plant; Inspector Robert Lake, Williams Lake RCMP re: 2024 Police Commission Report; Taya Vanderkop-Girard, Wildfire Risk Reduction and FireSmart Coordinator re: Overview of FireSmart Program and Objectives

* Free Transit Service on Federal Election Day

* Update to membership to Executive Committee of Council 

* Streetworks 2025 Contract Award

* Lake Harvester Update

View the full Meeting Agenda here

B.C. Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants 2024-2025

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Editor's Note -- no grants provided to Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments 

Cyclists and walkers will enjoy more multi-use pathways, protected bike lanes, pedestrian bridges, and safety improvements as the Province helps local governments expand their active transportation infrastructure.

“With this funding, we’re helping communities across B.C. build a more sustainable future,” said the Hon. Mike Farnworth, BC's Minister of Transportation and Transit. “By connecting communities with dedicated active transportation infrastructure, we’re encouraging people to cycle, walk or roll, which is good for our health and lessens our reliance on passenger vehicles.” 

A new round of provincial funding is supporting 53 active transportation infrastructure projects in B.C. communities. Additionally, nine communities are receiving funding to create network plans for future active transportation. These communities are benefiting from $24 million in provincial funding.

The grants will improve connections to employment, school, transit and recreational centres throughout the province.

The Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants program funds Indigenous, local and regional governments with cost-sharing investments of up to $500,000 for infrastructure projects and as much as $50,000 in funding to develop active transportation network plans. These projects make it safer and more efficient for people to use active transportation in their communities.

Since 2020, the Province has funded 327 projects across 187 communities through the Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants program, supporting the Province’s CleanBC commitment to increase shares of trips by walking, cycling and transit.

Learn More:

To learn about the B.C. Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants Program, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/transportation/funding-engagement-permits/funding-grants/active-transportation-infrastructure-grants

Background on grants provided -- https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025TT0026-000260

Mt Polley authorized to raise its tailings storage facility by four metres

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Jagrup Brar, Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals, and Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks, have released the following statement regarding the approval for the Mt. Polley Mine to raise its tailings storage facility by four metres in advance of the spring freshet:

“Today, as statutory decision-makers under the Environmental Assessment Act, we have made the decision to allow the Mount Polley Mining Corporation to raise the height of its tailings storage facility dam by four metres to ensure water can be managed safely in advance of spring freshet.

“The necessary permit for this work under the Mines Act has also been approved.

“We recognize that there are significant concerns around this mine. Since 2016, the mine has been operating under significantly stronger environmental standards.

“Approvals for this change come after comprehensive technical reviews by experts, including external engineers, as well as consultation with local First Nations.

“The application to raise the height of the tailings storage facility meets all required regulatory standards. This action is needed for the mine to continue operating safely, providing jobs for hundreds of people in the area.

“Staff in both our ministries will continue to closely monitor the mine to ensure it is operating under the highest standards and is meeting our strong regulatory requirements.

“What happened in 2014 can never happen again. Our strong requirements to protecting the environment are non-negotiable.”

More on this item here

Central Cariboo Joint Committee Highlights - March 26th, 2025 mtg

Present from Cariboo RD: Directors S. Forseth, M. Neufeld and M. LeBourdais

Present from City of Williams Lake: Mayor SPS Rathor; Councillors M. Moses and S. Nelson

Meeting Chair: Director M. Neufeld

Meeting called to order at 5:30pm

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on traditional, unceded Williams Lake First Nation territory within Secwepemculecw 

Meeting Agenda adopted, as revised (Late Item — Performances in the Park Spring 2025 Report) - click here

Minutes of the previous Joint Committee meeting was adopted

Delegation:

1) Melissa Normandin from the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society appeared before the Committee to provide an update on the Performances in the Park program

Following her presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair thanked Ms. Normandin for her time/information

Resolved: That it be recommended to the Regional Board:

That a letter, on behalf of the Cariboo Regional District, be forwarded to the BC Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sports in support of the return of the Fairs, Festivals and Events provincial grant program.

Business:

1) The Committee was presented with Information Only items (as per below) and no further action was taken 

* Central Cariboo Arts Centre Expansion Feasibility Support (referral from Williams Lake City Council)

* Security at Cariboo Memorial Recreation Centre (referral from Williams Lake City Council) 

* Performances in the Park Spring 2025 Report

2) The Committee discussed the following matter:

* Williams Lake Citizens on Patrol

3) The Committee received its' Action Page and no further action was taken

The Committee adjourned at 6:24pm

No carbon tax in B.C. as of April 1, 2025

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

People will see immediate savings through the elimination of the consumer carbon tax in British Columbia.

With the federal government removing the federal carbon tax on consumers, the B.C. government is not only halting the scheduled tax increase, the Government of BC will table legislation on Monday, March 31, 2025, to remove the tax, effective April 1, 2025.

The Province is notifying fuel sellers and natural gas retailers now so they can take action to stop collecting the tax from consumers as of April 1, 2025. While the Government of B.C. understands that eliminating the tax requires changes, the Province expects fuel sellers and natural gas retailers to make every effort to ensure their customers are not charged the carbon tax on purchases as of April 1.

The Province will continue to act on the commitment to battle climate change by ensuring people in British Columbia have affordable options to make sustainable choices and by encouraging industry to innovate.

Incentivizing industry to adopt lower-carbon technologies while maintaining their competitiveness is critically important in the province. While government removes the carbon tax on people, the Province of B.C will continue to ensure big industrial emitters pay their fair share through the output-based carbon pricing system. The system holds large industrial emitters accountable and offers cost-effective ways to cut emissions.

"Caretaker Convention" & 45th General Election of Canada

With the Canadian Federal Election called for Monday, April 28th, 2025 -- you will sometimes hear the phrase "Caretaker Convention" used in the media, which relates to how the current Federal Government must operate pending the election results for the 45th Parliament of Canada in late April 2025... 

More on this at https://www.canada.ca/en/privy-council/services/publications/guidelines-conduct-ministers-state-exempt-staff-public-servants-election.html#toc0

Public and Forest Sector reminded to check winter burn piles

 Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

The BC Wildfire Service is reminding the public and Forest Sector to check burn piles that they ignited last fall or over the winter, as fires can smolder underground and re-ignite as temperatures rise, snow recedes and forest fuels dry out.

 

Why is this important?

Fires can holdover and flare up in warm, dry, and windy conditions.

Spring conditions can be extremely dry—before grasses green up and trees leaf out, vegetation remains highly flammable and can dry quickly, even after rain.

Burn piles and open fires still burning after the registration number has expired, or a burn prohibition is in effect, are not in compliance and may result in being found in violation of the Wildfire Act and Regulations.

 

Regulations and fines

If your burn pile or open burn causes or helps start a wildfire, you may have to pay for all firefighting costs and any other related expenses. You could also be held responsible for damages to Crown resources, which can be very costly.

If you violate an open fire prohibition, you could face a $1,150 fine. You may also be required to pay an administrative penalty of up to $10,000, or if convicted in court, be fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail.

To learn more, read more about the Wildfire Act and Regulations.

The BCWS YouTube page has a number of informative videos on Open Burning and Category 3 burns 

To report a wildfire, dial *5555 on a cell phone or call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free. To report an unattended campfire or open burning violation, call the RAPP line on 1 877 952-7277.

You can also use the Report function in the BC Wildfire App to report a wildfire. Reporting though the app let's you upload images and can be used without service.

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, prohibitions and restrictions, road closures, and air-quality advisories please visit BCWildfire.ca, the BC Wildfire Map, or use the BC Wildfire app.

45th General Election of Canada|Monday, April 28th, 2025

This morning — Canada’s Governor-General dissolved the Parliament of Canada (House of Commons) on the recommendation of Canada’s Prime Minister. The 45th general election of Canada will be held on Monday, April 28, 2025.  The 105 Senators of Canada keep their positions as they are appointed by the Governor-General of Canada, on the recommendation of Canada's Prime Minister

Some background information on what dissolution of the House of Commons of Canada means can be viewed at https://www.ourcommons.ca/procedure/procedure-and-practice-3/ch_08_6-e.html#8-6-2

Meanwhile,  Elections Canada has a lot of work ahead to coordinate 343 elections to elect a new MP in each of the 343 ridings across Canada. For more information on this including knowing who the candidates for your local MP will be on April 9, 2025 — go to https://www.elections.ca/content2.aspx?section=kdt&document=index&lang=e

I encourage people to remain engaged in the federal election process including (hopefully) taking in an all candidates forum (should they occur) but ultimately, no matter who you support in the federal election, please make sure that you get out to vote as our democracy depends on it! But I always make sure to vote in all our elections — whether local, provincial or federal!

Best of luck to everyone who is running in our federal election to become our next Member of Parliament, here in the federal riding of Cariboo-Prince George 

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of March 24-28, 2025

During the week of March 24-28, 2025 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments will be meeting:

1) Quesnel -- Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 25th, 2025 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Quesnel Homeless Count

* Committee Reports

* Dragon Mountain Communications

* 2025 Business Improvement Area Levies

* Community Transit Partnership Agreement with Nazko First Nation

* Community Transit Partnership Agreements with the District of Wells 

* Cariboo Pulp & Paper Sewage Treatment Agreement

* Quesnel Regional Airport Lease

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) 100 Mile House -- Regular Council meeting in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue) on Tuesday, March 25th, 2025 at 5:30pm.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: RCMP

* Award of Parks Attendant Contract

* 2025 Grad Parade authorization

* 2025 Pride Parade authorization

* Skatepark Approval

* Light Industrial Tax Rates

* Closed Council Meeting - Section 90(1g - litigation) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

3) Central Cariboo Joint Committee -- Regular Meeting on Wednesday, March 26th, 2025 at 5:30pm in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society in respect of the 2025 Performances in the Park event

* Information Items --Central Cariboo Arts Centre Expansion Feasibility Support; Security at Cariboo Memorial Recreation Centre

* Discussion Item: Williams Lake Citizens on Patrol

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Cariboo RD Board Highlights - March 21st, 2025 mtg

Present: 

Chair M. Wagner/Vice Chair M. Neufeld; Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, LeBourdais, Richmond, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Coleman, Paull, Rathor and Pinkney

Meeting called to order at 9:45am

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional, unceded territory of the Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw 

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous Board meeting were adopted

Delegation - 11:00am (Interior Health):

Dr. Andy Delli Pizzi, Interior Health Medical Health Officer (via MS Teams) and Marnie Brenner, Community Health Facilitator from Interior Health, appeared before the Board to present information regarding Health Impacts of Extreme Climate Events and Community Response Level.  Presentation here

Following the presentation - A Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair thanked the delegation for their time/information

Business:

1) In relation to property at 6269 Garrett Rd in Electoral Area "L" -- the Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption to South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5497, 2025

2) The Board agreed to favourably recommend a Provincial Agricultural Land Commission application for Removal of Soil (Extraction) and Placement of Fill, pertaining to District Lot 6995, Cariboo District to the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission - North of Bysak Road (Esler) in Electoral Area "E"

3) The Board supported a Provincial Agricultural Land Commission application for subdivision pertaining to Lot 1, Section 8, Township 58 And District Lot 4357, Lillooet District, Plan KAP68304 and authorized it for submission to the Provincial Agriculture Land Commission (5629 Hanceville Cutoff Rd in Electoral Area "K") 

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director Anderson (Area “K”) 

4) The Board directed the Corporate Officer/Deputy CAO of the Cariboo Regional District to file a Notice on Title in the Land Title Office, in accordance with Section 57 of the Community Charter for Lot 10 District Lot 2939 Lillooet District Plan 5635; PID: 010-283-056 (4538 Canim-Hendrix Lake Rd (Forest Grove) in Electoral Area "H") and upon confirmation from the Chief Building Official that the matter has been resolved and an approved final inspection issued, the Notice may be discharged from the title upon receipt of the fee stipulated in the Cariboo Regional District's Building Bylaw

5) The Board agreed to provide a Grant to the Roe Lake and District Recreation Commission in the amount of $500 with the grant to be charged against the Area "L" Grant for Assistance fund

6) The Board received/ratified the Monthly Expenditures Board Summary Report and Mastercard Summary Report for the month of February 2025, in the amount of $1,953,665.48

7) The Board received the Information-only items and at the request of Area “F” Director M. LeBourdais, the Board authorized a Grant for Assistance of $5,500 from Areas B,D,E,F,G,H for sponsorship of the 2025 Williams Lake First Nation’s Father’s Day Pow-Wow event 

8) The Board endorsed recommendations from its' Committees/Commissions' as follows:

a) Emergency Preparedness Committee:

* That staff be authorized to submit an application for up to $40,000 for the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund – Emergency Support Services Equipment and Training grant

* That staff be authorized to submit an application for up to $30,000 for the 2025 UBCM CEPF EOC Equipment and Training grant.

b) Policy Committee: 

* That Policy #09-07A-51 Corporate Priorities Policy be rescinded as it is no longer in use

* That the Asset Management Policy dated March 4, 2025 be adopted as presented and that Asset Management Policy 2016-06B-33 be rescinded 

c) South Cariboo Joint Committee (Stakeholder Vote -- Areas G,H,L and the District of 100 Mile House):

That Centennial Park Tsecwile̓cule̓cw is the preferred location for the skate park proposed by the 100 Mile Youth Initiative. Further, that this recommendation be forwarded to 100 Mile District Council for confirmation prior to investigation of additional site requirements.

9) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings/Adoption to the following Corporate Bylaws:

a) Cariboo Regional District 2025 Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 5503, 2025

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director S. Forseth (Area "D") 

b) Cariboo Regional District Water Services Management Bylaw No. 5506, 2025

c) Cariboo Regional District Water Rates Bylaw No. 5501, 2025 (Stakeholder Vote -- Areas A,E,F,G,H,K,L only)

d) Cariboo Regional District Sewer Rates Bylaw No. 5502, 2025 (Stakeholder Vote -- Areas A,D,G,K only)

10) The Board adopted the following Corporate Bylaws:

a) West Fraser Fire Protection Service Boundary Amendment Bylaw No. 5498, 2025

b) 100 Mile House Fire Protection Service Boundary Expansion Bylaw No. 5499, 2025

c) Lac La Hache Fire Protection Service Area Expansion Bylaw No. 5500, 2025

11) As per Board Policy No. 11-10A-26 -- the Board appointed Area "L" Director Eric De Vries to represent the Cariboo Regional District on the NCLGA/North Central Local Government Association's Board of Directors' with Area "B" Director Barb Bachmeier being the alternate representative 

Meeting recessed at 10:50am

Meeting resumed at 11:00am

Delegation — 11:00am (see top of page) 

Meeting recessed at 11:30am to CCRHD Board 

Meeting resumed at 1:00pm

At 1:00pm -- the Board recessed its' Open Meeting to conduct an In-Camera Session (closed to the public) as per Sections 92 + 90(1e - land) of the Community Charter

At 1:14pm -- the Board resumed its Open Meeting

Directors provided verbal reports on their recent activities and then the Board adjourned

Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board Highlights - March 21st, 2025 mtg

Present: 

Chair A. Richmond/Vice Chair M. Sjostrom and Directors B. Bachmeier, J. Massier, S. Forseth (entered meeting at 9:40am), M. Neufeld, M. LeBourdais, M. Wagner, J. Glassford, T. Pare, B. Anderson, E. De Vries, E. Coleman, R. Paull, SPS Rathor, M. Pinkney and J. Smith 

Meeting called to order at 9:30am 

The Chair 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 Board Meeting were received/adopted

Business:

1) The Board received the Northern Health Community Update - Feb 2025 

2) The Board agreed to renew the contracting service agreement with Rogue Consulting Group Inc. DBA/Melissa LaPointe for the provision of landing of healthcare professionals (Central and South Cariboo) until December 31, 2029 

Delegation — 11:30am:

Jill Zirnhelt, Executive Director - CIRD, Dr. Jacques Neuhoff, Board Chair of CIRD and Chief of Staff at Cariboo Memorial Hospital, and Karen Cooper, Executive Director, Interior Health appeared before the Board to discuss primary care, recruitment and retention efforts and challenges.  Presentation here

Following their presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair thanked the delegation for their time/information

The Board adjourned at 12:12pm

Spring Fuel Treatments to Take Place Over Coming Weeks in Williams Lake

March 20th, 2025

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake, in collaboration with the BC Wildfire Service, will be conducting a series of spring prescribed burns beginning as early as Tuesday, March 25, conditions permitting, and continuing over the coming weeks to reduce wildfire risk and enhance community safety.

The fuel treatments will take place in several areas throughout the City, including:

The water tower hill on Gibbon Street

The park and hillside near Lake City Secondary School’s Williams Lake Campus

The Williams Lake Stampede Grounds

The lands between Country Club Boulevard and the Westridge subdivision

The lands near White Road and Bellevue Drive

These controlled burns will help remove flammable materials such as dry grass and debris, reducing fire hazards and promoting healthier ecosystems. The fuel treatments are part of the City’s ongoing FireSmart initiatives to increase wildfire resilience in the community.

Burns will only be conducted on days with favorable weather conditions to ensure smoke dissipates quickly.

As FireSmart activities continue throughout Williams Lake, the City will inform residents through its social media channels and website where possible.

For questions regarding the prescribed fires contact firesmart@williamslake.ca or call 250-392-4321.

High-speed internet available in Clinton, Ruth Lake, Deka Lake

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

People in Clinton, Ruth Lake and Deka Lake in the Cariboo region now have access to high-speed internet, enabling faster, more reliable access to digital services and opportunities.

"People in Clinton, Ruth Lake and Deka Lake can access even more services including health care and education, alongside economic and job opportunities, from their home communities," said the Hon. George Chow, BC's Minister of Citizens’ Services. “This completion marks another important milestone in our commitment to connect every rural, remote and Indigenous community in B.C. to high-speed internet."

Two connectivity projects built and operated by service provider Telus have been completed, providing access to faster, more reliable broadband internet services for 444 households in Clinton and 746 households in areas around Ruth Lake and Deka Lake, near 100 Mile House.

"This connectivity project is a vital step toward bridging the digital divide in the Cariboo region,” said Margo Wagner, chair of the Cariboo Regional District. “By improving internet access, we are empowering our residents with better opportunities for education, health care, and economic growth."

The Government of B.C. invested $2 million in the Clinton project and more than $3.1 million in the Ruth Lake and Deka Lake project through the Connecting British Columbia program, administered by the Northern Development Initiative Trust. Telus contributed more than $1.4 million to the Clinton project and almost $1.7 million to the Ruth Lake and Deka Lake project.

“Thanks to the Connecting British Columbia program and a decade of advocacy by the village, people in Clinton now have access to reliable high-speed internet,” said Roland Stanke, Mayor of Clinton. “This increased connectivity will help attract new businesses, support local entrepreneurs and encourage families to consider Clinton as their home by making it easier to stay connected to services and each other.”

Tyler Mooi, vice-president, customer network planning, Telus, said: “Telus is committed to connecting communities across the province, ensuring everyone has the tools they need to thrive in today’s digital world, no matter where they live. We are proud to work alongside the Village of Clinton and the Government of British Columbia to bring our fast and reliable connectivity, providing local residents and businesses with the speeds and coverage they need to connect to the people, information and resources that matter most.”

Since 2017, the Province has invested $584 million to expand connectivity. As of January 2025, an estimated 74% of all rural homes and 83% of homes in First Nations communities now have access to high-speed internet service, compared to 57% and 66% respectively in 2017. When current projects in progress are completed, connectivity rates for rural homes will increase to 89% and Indigenous communities to 96%.

In March 2022, the governments of British Columbia and Canada announced a partnership to invest as much as $830 million to expand high-speed internet services. The Province is committed to connecting all remaining under-served households, ensuring better access to services and economic opportunities in every community.

The Connecting British Columbia and Connecting Communities BC funding programs support projects to expand high-speed internet access to rural and remote areas, levelling the playing field for British Columbians.

Learn More:

Connectivity in B.C.: 

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/connectivity-in-bc

Connecting Communities BC:

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/connectivity-in-bc/20530/20601

Connecting British Columbia:

https://www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca/funding-programs/partner-programs/connecting-british-columbia/

StrongerBC, B.C.'s economic plan:

https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/economic-plan/

Committee of the Whole (Cariboo RD Board) - March 20th, 2025

Present: 

Chair M. Wagner/Vice Chair M. Neufeld; Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth,  LeBourdais, Richmond, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Paull, Rathor and Pinkney 

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw 

Meeting Agenda adopted - click here

Minutes of the previous Committee of the Whole meeting were received/adopted

Business:

The Committee discussed the following items:

* Short Term Rental (STR) Regulations Update (Director LeBourdais declared a conflict on this item at 9:35am and returned to the meeting at 9:57am

* Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations – Proposed Bylaw Changes

* Presentation on SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) Upgrades

* Staff Capital Priorities and Associated Amendments to the Community Works Funds Priority Policy

* Request for Community Works Funds for Red Bluff Firehall in Electoral Area "A"

* Meeting Remuneration Rates

* Request from Dir. Forseth (Area D) re: Explore Creation of new Animal Control Service

* Verbal Update from Manager of Solid Waste on Cariboo RD Solid Waste Management Plan provincial approval

Following discussions - the Committee agreed to the following Resolutions: 

1) Refer Remuneration Bylaw to Policy Committee for review, based on the Committee of the Whole discussions in relation to half day or full day rates for specific sanctioned business meetings

2)  That staff be authorized to work wih Director Forseth for the establishment of a dog control service in Electoral Area D, and that up to $5,000 be authorized from the rural feasibility fund

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director Anderson (Area K)

3) That staff be directed to bring forward a list of the top few immediate priorities for the Regional District Community Works Fund at the April 11, 2025 Cariboo Regional District Board meeting

4) That staff be directed to prepare a policy outlining how capital projects will be prioritized consistent with Asset Management principles and consistent with the methods and procedures outlined in this report for presentation at the next Policy Committee.

5) That $500,000 of Community Works Funds be allocated to the Red Bluff Firehall replacement. 

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Directors Forseth, Neufeld and Rathor (Areas D,E, Williams Lake) 

The Committee adjourned at 2:08pm 

Post Event Report -- 2025 LGLA Annual Leadership Forum

As is my standard practice following attendance at a Seminar, Forum or Convention -- please find below my "Post Event" report respecting my attendance at the 2025 LGLA Annual Leadership Forum held in Richmond, BC from March 12-14, 2025

Post-Event Report -- https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jhTEqy1s4YjkGSofFltXmZK0Cw1Z3apt/view?usp=drive_link

If there are any questions, happy to answer those here or off-line via email at sforseth@cariboord.ca or by phone at 250-267-6725

Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus Highlights - March 19th, 2025 mtg

Present: Chair T. Pare; Directors Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais and Anderson

Meeting called to order at 3:00pm

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional, unceded territory of the Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous Caucus meeting were adopted

Delegations/Presentations:

Caucus received delegations, as follows: 

1) Williams Lake RCMP re: Update in Williams Lake RCMP operating area

2) Williams Lake Citizens on Patrol re: Update

Following the presentations -- a Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair thanked the delegations for their time/information

Business:

None

Caucus adjourned at 4:03pm

New Cariboo RD Area "D" Alternate Director

 

From Cariboo Regional District Area "D" Director Steve Forseth:

I wish to inform the electors of Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area "D" in the communities of:

* Soda Creek Road 

* Commodore Heights

* Fox Mountain 

* Pine Valley 

* Wildwood 

* Deep Creek 

* Xat'sull First Nation (Deep Creek/Soda Creek Reserves) 

* Tyee Lake 

* Soda Creek Valley 

* McLeese Lake/Duckworth Lake 

* Macalister 

* Marguerite 

That, in accordance with Section 201(2) of BC's Local Government Act - I have appointed Ms. Angelina Bennetts of Pine Valley as the new Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area "D" Alternate Director,  succeeding Ms. Phyllis Webstad who served in this same position from December 2014 - March 2025. This appointment is effective immediately and expires in October 2026 concurrent with my current elected term of October 2022-October 2026

I firstly thank Ms. Webstad for agreeing to serve in this position for the last 11 years so ably and for Ms. Bennetts for agreeing to take on this position 

The role of an Electoral Area Alternate Director is to attend either open or closed meetings of the Cariboo Regional District, in the absence of and at the request of the duly-elected Electoral Area Director.  

~Steve 

Williams Lake Council Highlights - March 18th, 2025 mtg

Present: Mayor Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Delainey, 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 approved  - click here

Meeting Video - click here 

Minutes of the previous City Council meeting was adopted 

Delegations/Presentations:

Maureen Straza, Chair of the Accessibility Advisory Committee appeared before Council to present the Committee's 2024 Year-End Report

Following her presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued... 

Mayor Rathor, on behalf of Council, thanked Ms. Straza for her time/information

Editor's Note -- Ms. Straza is a resident of Tyee Lake, a unincorporated community in Electoral Area "D" of the Cariboo Regional District

Business arising from Delegations/Presentations:

That the report of the Accessibility Advisory Committee Chair and Legislative Services Assistant Coordinator dated February 25, 2025 regarding a summary of the AAC's goals and successes from 2024 be received for information; and further, that Council approve the Accessibility Advisory Committee’s updated ‘Strategic Priorities & Goals’ as presented -- click here

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated March 6 and 13, 2025

2) Council received for information the report of the Manager of Planning and Development dated March 11, 2025, regarding BC Building Code updates

3) Council ratified an email poll authorizing the City to submit the proposed resolution regarding active transportation on rural highways to the North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA) for consideration at their 2025 AGM/Convention

4) Council received an update from Mayor Rathor concerning the 2025 Local Government Leadership Academy Annual Leadership Forum held in Richmond, BC from March 12-14, 2025 

5) Council awarded the CMRC (Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex) Energy Recovery Tender to Fraser Valley Refrigeration Ltd. for the tendered price of $1,242,289.65 including applicable taxes

6) Council adopted the following Bylaws:

a) City of Williams Lake Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2422, 2025"

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillor J. Lyons 

b) "City of Williams Lake Development Cost Charge Reserve Fund Expenditure Bylaw No. 2424, 2025"

7) Council endorsed 2 recommendations from the March 11st, 2025 Committee of the Whole meeting, as follows:

a) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #08-2025, and the report of the Procurement and Asset Management Coordinator dated February 19, 2025, Council receive this report for information, and that:

· Council express support for Federal and Provincial efforts to respond to US tariffs,

· The City launch and support a "Made in Canada" campaign,

· The City put major capital purchases on hold until further direction is provided by the Provincial and Federal governments, and

· That Council direct staff to take all efforts to purchase Canadian made goods and services where possible to achieve operational needs.

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillor A. Delainey 

b) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #10-2025 and the report of the Director of Community Services dated March 6, 2025, Council approve the termination of the security services at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex effective April 7, 2025, and further that this decision be shared for information at a future Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting.

8) Council received for information minutes of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting held February 26, 2025

9) Council received for information a letter from the Union of BC Municipalities dated February 26, 2025 regarding endorsement by the UBCM Executive of Resolution 2024-NR102 'Legislative Changes to Permit Alkaline Hydrolysis Funerals'  (joint resolution between City of Williams Lake/Cariboo Regional District)

10) Council received a letter from Arjun Singh, Better Citizen Solutions dated March 14, 2025 regarding the Local Government Offsite Housing Accelerator project and a request for a letter of support and directed that a letter of support be provided 

Resolved: That a meeting be arranged with local representatives from the BC Ministry of Transportation/Transit regarding housing opportunities at Prosperity Way 

11) Council proclaimed the following:

* the month of May 2025 be proclaimed as "Hospice Palliative Care Awareness Month" in the City of Williams Lake

* the week of May 1 to 7, 2025 be proclaimed "Youth Week" in the City of Williams Lake

* Council authorized the raising of the BGC (Boys and Girls Club) flag and the lights of City Hall be changed to green on June 6, 2025 for BGC Club Day

12) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of March 18th, 2025

Council received the final Standing Update for Atlantic Power, as the Atlantic Power Plant in Williams Lake will now remain operational with their current BC Hydro contract in place until 2029 (item to be removed from future Council Agendas) and Council agreed to provide thank you letters to those individuals or organizations who assisted in lobbying jointly to keep the Atlantic Power plant operational in Williams Lake... 

Council received an verbal update from the Chief Administrative Officer - as provided by the Corporate Officer 

And then Council adjourned at 6:50pm 

Grants provided to Fire Departments' in the Cariboo-Chilcotin

Courtesy of the Province of BC:

Editor's Note -- the following Fire Department organizations will be receiving grants from the Province of British Columbia:

100 Mile House - Structure Protection Unit Equipment

Amount: $38,055

Cariboo Regional District - Emergency response improvement project: Equipment and training

Amount: $501,321

Chimney and Felker Lakes Volunteer Fire Department - Firefighter training, personal protective equipment and firefighting equipment upgrades 

Amount: $39,996

McLeese Lake Volunteer Fire Department - Fire department equipment

Amount: $12,847

Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek) - Firefighting equipment

Amount: $17,437

Watch Lake - North Green Lake Volunteer Fire Department: Turnout gear replacement, safety equipment upgrades and training programs 

Amount: $39,800

Williams Lake - Structural turnout gear cleaning system 

Amount: $37,064

Williams Lake First Nation - Fire Prevention and Interface Response Supports: Turnout gear replacement, mandatory safety equipment upgrades and prescribed training programs  

Amount: $11,415

More than 130 projects for more than 230 volunteer and composite fire departments will receive funding through new training and equipment to strengthen emergency response and better keep people in British Columbia safe.

“During an emergency, people rely on volunteer firefighters and community fire crews to keep their loved ones and homes safe,” said the Hon. Kelly Greene, BC's Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “By providing funding for equipment and training, we’re strengthening local firefighting capabilities so that people in rural and remote communities who depend on volunteer or partial volunteer fire departments are safer and better protected.”

Communities throughout B.C. rely on volunteer firefighters to protect people, homes and businesses when a fire breaks out. Through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF), the Province is providing more than $9 million, which will benefit more than 230 fire departments in the province that are wholly or partially staffed with volunteer firefighters. This funding will help build the capacity of volunteer and composite fire departments to prepare and respond to emergencies through the purchase of new or replacement equipment and the expansion of firefighter training. Composite fire departments are those that have a mix of paid staff and volunteers.

Since 2017, more than $26 million has been provided to volunteer and composite fire departments through the CEPF for additional equipment and training. This funding also helps fire departments meet the B.C. structure-firefighter training standards established by the Office of the Fire Commissioner (OFC).

“Volunteer and composite fire departments are a cornerstone of our emergency response system, especially in rural and remote communities where they are often the first line of defence,” said the Hon. Garry Begg, BC's Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “This funding will help ensure these dedicated first responders have the tools and training they need to keep people safe. By investing in the capabilities of our local fire departments, we are helping protect communities across the province.”

Funding will be provided to local governments, First Nations and community-run volunteer and composite fire departments for various projects in the province. This includes:

equipment to support a new training facility and live fire-training props for the Nanoose Volunteer Fire Department and the Qualicum Beach Fire Rescue composite fire department;

upgrading and replacing equipment, and new firefighting training for the Atlin Volunteer Fire Department;

new self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) equipment to strengthen fire response by the Heiltsuk Fire Department;

new equipment for the sprinkler protection unit of the 100 Mile House Fire Rescue volunteer fire department; and

live fire training for the Mackenzie Fire Rescue Department for improved fire response.

People and communities in British Columbia are experiencing more frequent and more extreme weather events due to climate change. The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund helps communities mitigate and prepare for emergencies by funding local projects and initiatives in several categories. These include public notification and evacuation-route planning, emergency operations centres equipment and training, Indigenous cultural safety and cultural humility training, and emergency support services equipment and training.

The Province has invested $369 million into CEPF since it was established in 2017. To date, approximately $310 million has been disbursed to First Nations and local governments for approximately 2,300 projects that help communities prepare for disasters and climate-related emergencies. The CEPF is administered by the Union of BC Municipalities on behalf of the Province.

Learn More:

For information about the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, visit: https://www.ubcm.ca/cepf

For information about the Office of the Fire Commissioner, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/public-safety/fire-safety

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government/Board of Education Meetings - Week of March 17-21, 2025

During the week of March 17-21, 2025 — the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments/Boards of Education will be holding meetings, as follows:

Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 18th, 2025 from 3:15-4:30pm in Wells Council Chambers or via Zoom (4243 Sanders Ave).  On the Agenda:

* Review of Strategic Priority Projects

* Updates from Mayor Coleman and Wells CAO

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 18th, 2025 at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Maureen Straza, Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) Chair re Accessibility Advisory Committee - 2024 Year-End Report

* BC Building Code Update

* Poll of Council - NCLGA Resolution Submission Regarding Active Transportation

* Mayor Rathor's Update on the Local Government Leadership Academy Annual Leadership Forum from March 12-14, 2025 

* Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex Energy Recovery Tender Award (report available on Monday to the public) 

* Recommendations from March 11th, 2025 Committee of Whole Session

Also, verbal reports of members from Williams Lake City Council are put on hold until November 2025, as per a decision of Council at their March 4th, 2025 meeting.  This is now replaced with a verbal or written update from the CAO for the moment

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District — Meetings as noted below in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  

1) Central Cariboo Rural Directors’ Caucus - Meeting on Wednesday, March 19th, 2025 at 3:00pm.  On the Agenda:

* Presentations from Williams Lake RCMP, Cariboo-Chilcotin Elder College and Williams Lake Citizens on Patrol 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) Committee of the Whole (Cariboo RD Board) — Meeting on Thursday, March 20th, 2025 at 9:30am.  On the Agenda:

* Short Term Rental (STR) Regulations Update

* Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations – Proposed Bylaw Changes

* Presentation on SCADA Upgrades

* Staff Capital Priorities and Associated Amendments to the Community Works Funds Priority Policy

* Cariboo Regional District 2025 Five Year Financial Plan - request for CWF for Red Bluff Firehall

View the full Meeting Agenda here

3) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District (CCRHD) - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, March 21st, 2025 at 9:30am.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation at 11:30am -- Central Interior Division of Rural Family Practice (CIRD) and Interior Health

* Contracting Services Agreement – Rogue Consulting Group Inc. DBA/Melissa LaPointe (Healthcare Recruitment for Central/South Cariboo)

View the full Meeting Agenda here

4) Cariboo Regional District - Regular Board Meeting, following recess of the CCRHD Board meeting on Friday, March 21st, 2025.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation at 11am -- Interior Health re: presenting information regarding Health Impacts of Extreme Climate Events and Community Response Level.

* Land Use Matters (Area Directors' only)

* Recommendations for endorsement from Committees' or Commissions

* Appointment of Area "L" Director Eric De Vries as Cariboo RD rep. to NCLGA Board

* Request from Area "B" Director Barb Bachmeier to attend Minerals North later this year in Prince George, BC

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Spring Fuel Treatments Upcoming at Multiple Locations Throughout City of Williams Lake

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake, in partnership with the BC Wildfire Service, will be conducting a series of spring fuel treatments over the coming weeks to reduce wildfire risk and enhance community safety.

These prescribed burns will take place in several areas throughout the city, including:

• The water tower hill on Gibbon Street
• The park and hillside near Lake City Secondary School’s Williams Lake Campus
• The Williams Lake Stampede Grounds
• The lands between Country Club Boulevard and the Westridge subdivision

These controlled burns will help remove flammable materials such as dry grass and debris, reducing fire hazards and promoting healthier ecosystems. The fuel treatments are part of the City’s ongoing FireSmart initiatives to increase wildfire resilience in the community.

Burns will only be conducted on days with favorable weather conditions to ensure smoke dissipates quickly.

“To enable spring prescribed burns, professionals carefully prepare maps for an area, create a plan and then monitor the weather and ground conditions,” said Taya Vanderkop-Girard, City FireSmart Coordinator. “If you see fires in these areas over the next few weeks, know that this is critical work to help reduce the impacts of future forest fires.”

As FireSmart activities continue throughout Williams Lake, the City will inform residents through its social media channels and website where possible.

In addition to these spring fuel treatments, residents are encouraged to take FireSmart actions on their properties. For more information or to request a free FireSmart assessment visit firesmartbc.ca or email firesmart@williamslake.ca.

For questions regarding the prescribed fires contact Ms. Vanderkop-Girard at tvanderkop-girard@williamslake.ca or by calling 250-392-4321.

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government/Board of Education Meetings - Week of March 10-14, 2025

During the week of March 10-14, 2025 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government/Board of Education will be holding meetings, as follows:

Quesnel: 

1) Special Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 11th, 2025 at 5:00pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Internal/External Committee appointments

* New Standing Committee - Governance & Strategy and Committee Terms of Reference

View the full Agenda here

2) Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee - Regular Meeting on Wednesday, March 12th, 2025 at 9am in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Five Year Financial Plan Policy

* Reserve Reports

* Surplus 2024 Report

View the full Agenda here

School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Board of Education on Wednesday, March 12th, 2025 at 7:00pm in the SD28 Boardroom (401 North Star Rd, Quesnel).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, March 11th, 2025 at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Supporting Canadian and Local Procurement in Response to U.S. Tariffs (as previously directed by Council Resolution) 

* Additional Potential 2025 NCLGA Resolutions

* Security at Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District: 

1) South Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Monday, March 10th, 2025 at 12pm in 100 Mile Council Chambers.  On the Agenda:

* South Cariboo Recreation Annual Report

* Discussion Item: 100 Mile Youth Initiative - Skate Park

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, March 11th, 2025 at 3pm at the CRD Quesnel Office (101-401 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations: North Cariboo Agricultural Marketing Association (FARMED); Quesnel RCMP S/Sgt. Richard Weseen

* Discussion Items -- Update on HandiDart in Area A, Update on Ospiko Mine - Director Glassford

* Updates from appointees to North Cariboo Community Committees' 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

3) Special North Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting on Tuesday, March 11th, 2025 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers.  On the Agenda:

* West Fraser Centre concert

* Closed Joint Committee Meeting - Sections 92 + 90(1j - information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Finally -- the Local Government Leadership Academy is holding their annual Local Government Leadership Forum at the Radisson Vancouver Airport Hotel in Richmond, BC from March 12-14, 2025.  The Forum Agenda can be viewed here.  Cariboo-Chilcotin local elected officials scheduled to be in attendance include:

* Quesnel Councillor L-A Roodenburg (in her capacity as President of the Local Government Leadership Academy)

* Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor

* Cariboo RD Area "D" Director Steve Forseth

I will post an Post-Event report from the Forum upon my return to Richmond.  Mayor Rathor and I are travelling together, via flight, to the Forum on Tuesday March 11th, 2025 afternoon and back in the afternoon of Friday, March 14th, 2025...