April 2025 Provincial Snowpack Report - Cariboo/Chilcotin Region

Earlier today – the BC River Forecast Centre released their April 1st, 2025 Snowpack Report

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In the Cariboo-Chilcotin Region:

Chilcotin Snow Basin (Cariboo RD Areas J,K) – 0% of normal snowpack, down from 16% in March

Quesnel Snow Basin (Cariboo RD Areas A,B,C,D,E,F,I, City of Quesnel, City of Williams Lake and District of Wells) – 89% of normal snowpack, up from 83% in March

North Thompson Snow Basin (Cariboo RD Areas G,H,L + District of 100 Mile House) – 85% of normal snowpack, up from 78% in March

Provincial Snowpack level – 79% of normal snowpack, up from 73% in March

Full April 1st, 2025 Provincial Snowpack report: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/air-land-water/water/river-forecast/2025_apr1.pdf

Prescribed burn planned in 100 Mile House

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service/Cariboo Fire Centre:

The 100 Mile House Fire Department, with support from the BC Wildfire Service, plan to conduct a prescribed burn west of 100 Mile House to help reduce wildfire threats.   When and where The burn will cover approximately 19 hectares in the Exeter area. Preparation work that includes small scale fire ignitions to create control lines may start as early as April 8. The primary burn may begin as early as April 9 and continue periodically until April 30. Ignitions will only proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, though smoke may also linger in the following days.   What to expect Smoke and flames will be visible from 100 Mile House, surrounding communities and motorists on Highway 97. Crews will ignite ground fuels to remove combustible materials. The perimeter of the burn will be extinguished at the end of each day. Smoke from within the perimeter may remain visible up to 48 hours after ignition. Firefighters will remain on-site to monitor conditions into the evening.   Objectives of the prescribed burn Reduce wildfire risk within the 100 Mile House municipal boundaries. Use fire to restore grassland and forest health to encourage a properly functioning ecosystem. Strengthen collaboration between BC Wildfire Service and local firefighters outside of emergency response situations.   Minimizing health impacts from smoke Exposure to smoke from wildfires or prescribed burning can irritate eyes and respiratory tracts and worsen pre-existing lung and heart conditions. If your area is impacted by smoke: Manage pre-existing conditions, and seek medical care if you have severe symptoms. Reduce the length and intensity of outdoor activities. Run portable air cleaners with windows and doors closed. Both commercial and home-made units (https://rb.gy/90uh5s) can be effective if operated properly.   Learn about protecting your health from smoke online: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke   Learn more Fire is a natural process in many of B.C.’s ecosystems. The BC Wildfire Service works regularly with land managers to undertake fuel management activities, including the use of prescribed burns, to help reduce the severity of future wildfires and related threats to communities.   Learn more about prescribed burning online at prescribedfire.ca or find more resources here.   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. Follow the latest wildfire news on: Facebook Instagram YouTube X (formerly Twitter) BC Wildfire App: available for Apple and Android

Contacts David Bissat Fire Chief; District of 100 Mile House 250 395-2152 dbissat@100milehouse.com www.100milefire.com   Fire Information Officer BC Wildfire Service Cariboo Fire Centre 778 799-2100 CaFCInfo@gov.bc.ca Connect with the Province of B.C. at www.gov.bc.ca/connect

Upcoming Work at Scout Island from April 7 to May 2, 2025

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake would like to remind residents and visitors that excavation work will be taking place at Scout Island from April 7 to May 2, 2025, between the hours of 7 am and 5 pm.

During this time traffic and pedestrian access may be impacted, and there may be delays.

The work is part of exploratory excavation for the new Water Treatment Plant and will affect areas including the causeway, parking lot and picnic area.

Please respect all signage and traffic control personnel and use caution when traveling through the work zone.

The City appreciates the community's patience and cooperation during this important project.

Kenneth Thomson seeks to become MP for Cariboo - Prince George

According to Elections Canada -- a Kenneth B. Thomson of Quesnel, BC is running as an Independent in the 2025 Canadian Election in the federal electoral district of Cariboo - Prince George

View more on his platform at:

https://enough.ca/

In addition to Mr. Thomson -- incumbent MP Todd Doherty of the Conservatives, the NDP's Angie Bonazzo, the Green Party's Jodie Capling, People’s Party candidate Rudy Sans and Christian Heritage Party candidate Jake Wiens and Liberal Clinton Emslie are also in the running to become the next Member of Parliament for Cariboo - Prince George

Deadline to register with Elections Canada is this Monday, April 7th, 2025 with the official list of candidates in each of the 343 federal ridings across Canada is to be released on Wednesday, April 9th, 2025 with General Voting Day being Monday, April 28th, 2025 and Advanced Voting occuring on April 18-21, 2025. Full details at https://www.elections.ca/Scripts/vis/EDInfo?L=e&ED=59004&EV=62&EV_TYPE=1&PC=v2g1r9&QID=-1&PAGEID=21

As of this writing (April 6th, 2025 at 5:35am) -- there are no scheduled all candidates forums for MP, Cariboo-Prince George in the Cariboo Chilcotin region...

~Steve

U.S. Department of Commerce plans to raise softwood duties against Canadian producers to 34.45%

 Courtesy of the Government of BC:

British Columbia Premier David Eby has released the following statement in response to the U.S. Department of Commerce announcement that it plans to raise softwood duties against Canadian producers to 34.45%:

“The U.S. Department of Commerce announced yesterday that they are going to more than double countervailing duties imposed on Canadian softwood lumber, driving up housing costs for Americans who voted for a President who promised to lower costs.

“This is an attack on forest workers and British Columbians. I know that during hard times it is often the workers who pay the price. To every forestry worker in British Columbia hearing the news of this impending increase to softwood lumber duties, know this: We have got your back and your government will fight for you.

“In Canada, the continued unjustified softwood lumber duties, combined with additional U.S. tariffs and other trade actions, have united Canadians. We have friends and family in the United States who need Canadian lumber to build or rebuild their homes, and both Canadians and Americans need an end to this trade dispute.

“We will, as always, work with the other provinces and territories, the forest sector and the federal government to fight this most recent decision through all avenues available to us, at the first possible opportunity.

“I am meeting with the Prime Minister on Monday, April 7, 2025, and I plan on raising this issue with him directly. B.C. workers and their families depend on the jobs that these tariffs are targeting, and we hope to see the same Team Canada approach to protecting them, just like with the automotive and steel industry jobs in Ontario and Quebec.

“We will continue to work with business, labour and First Nations leaders to seek approaches to defend the hard-working forestry workers of B.C., their families and the industry as a whole from the increasingly hostile actions of our largest trading partner.”

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government/Board of Education Meetings - Week of April 7-11, 2025

During the week of April 7-11, 2025 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government/Boards of Education will be holding meetings, as follows:

Wells -- Regular Council Meeting from 3:15pm - 4:30pm on Tuesday, April 8th, 2025 in Wells Council Chambers/via Zoom (4243 Sanders Avenue, Wells) as well as holding Closed/In-Camera meetings from 2-3pm and 4:45 to 5:30pm on this same date.  When available, the Open Council Meeting Agenda can be viewed here and the Closed Council Meeting details can be viewed here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) -- Board Committee Meetings on Tuesday/Wednesday, April 8/9, 2025 at the SD27 Administration Office (350 2nd Avenue North, Williams Lake).  

1) Finance Committee on April 8th at 4:15pm.  On the Agenda:

* Annual Facilities Grant

* Budget Process 2025-26

* Minor Capital Submission for 2025-26

* Daycare updates at Columneetza

* Chilcotin Road - Before/After Care 

* Bus Transportation Registration Update

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) Education Committee on April 9th at 4:00pm 

* Outgoing Indigenous Role Models

* CIMS (Cariboo Information Management System) Use

* BCSTA Student Outcomes

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Williams Lake -- Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, April 8th, 2025 at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Official Community Plan/Zoning Review Project

* NCLGA Survey: Reforming the Local Government Act

* Closed Council Meeting: Sections 90(1i,j,k -- legal advice, information prohibited from public disclosure and negotiations) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

100 Mile House -- Meetings, as noted below, all in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House) on Tuesday, April 8th, 2025

1) Committee of the Whole at 4:00pm.  On the Agenda:

* Community Wind Phone (reconsider)

* Better at Home: Walking Group

* Pickleball Donation

* Discussion Items: 60th Birthday, Utility Fee Amendments

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) 100 Mile Development Corporation at 4:30pm or upon adjournment of Committee of the Whole meeting, whichever occurs first.  On the Agenda:

* 2025 Budget

* 2024 Annual Report of the Corporation

View the full Meeting Agenda here

3) Regular Council at 5:30pm - on the Agenda:

* Delegations: Director of Finance re: Court of Revision and 2025 Budget/5 Year Financial Plan

* 3 Bylaws for 3 Readings or Adoption

* Discussion Item: Free Transit for Federal Vote on April 28th, 2025

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

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District -- Meetings as noted below:

1) Indigenous Relations Committee -- Thursday, April 10th at 1pm in the Cariboo Regional District Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation:  Filip Ani, Negotiator, from the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation re: remote presentation on the BC/Coastal First Nations Accord for Co-Governance, Environmental Stewardship, Economic Renewal and Local Community Well-Being in the Pacific North Coast.

* Review Committee Terms of Reference

* Discussion Items: Committee Meeting Dates in 2025, verbal report from Mgr. of Intergovernmental Relations

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District/Regular Board Meeting -- Friday, April 11th at 9:30am in the Cariboo Regional District Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Information Items -- Q1 Northern Health Update/Q1 Quesnel Healthcare Recruitment Updates and Status of Delegations, CCRHD Board

* Requests for Capital Expenditures Bylaws from Northern Health -- GR Baker OR Anesthetic Machines x2 Replacement,  GR Baker Ultrasound Replacement

View the full Meeting Agenda here

3) Cariboo Regional District/Regular Board Meeting -- Friday, April 11th at 9:45am or adjournment of the CCRHD Board Meeting (whichever occurs first) in the Cariboo Regional District Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations: Cariboo Fire Centre and Fraser Basin Council re: General Updates

* Land Use Matters (Area Directors only) 

* Cottonwood Community Hall Community Works Funding (CWF) hydro project and enabling agreementa 

* Year Round Grant for Assistance application: Williams Lake Dirt Riders

* Committee Recommendations - for endorsement

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Enhanced rental assistance programs support families & seniors

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

More people will now benefit from enhancements to the Rental Assistance Program (RAP) and the Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) program, helping low-income families and seniors afford their rent.

“With the rising cost of living, we’re enhancing supports through the RAP and SAFER programs to ensure more families and seniors can access essential financial help,” said the Hon. Ravi Kahlon, BC's Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “These changes will help people stay in their homes in the communities they love and allow us to support more people as they manage the challenges of rent and living expenses.”

Starting April 1, 2025, and as part of Budget 2025, RAP and SAFER programs have expanded eligibility criteria that will benefit more than 30,000 households in B.C. Existing eligible recipients will also see an automatic increase in their average benefits, providing them with more financial assistance to contribute toward rent. These changes build on the improvements to SAFER and the one-time RAP benefit introduced in April 2024.

“Seniors are vital to our communities, and they should receive the support they need to live comfortably,” said Susie Chant, parliamentary secretary for seniors' services and long-term care. “This change to eligibility requirements offers much-needed relief for low-income seniors and families facing rising living costs. These improvements will help seniors live safely and comfortably in their homes and in communities they’ve helped build.”

Improvements to RAP include:

• increasing the household income limit for eligibility from $40,000 to $60,000 (before taxes) is expected to nearly double the number of families eligible for support from approximately 3,200 to nearly 6,000;
• increasing the average family supplement for existing recipients from $400 per month to $700 per month;
• implementing single provincial rent ceilings based on household size, which can now be reviewed and amended annually and will help ensure rent support for people remains adequate and flexible to changes; and
• removing the requirement for employment income, which will result in low-income families that are not receiving income or disability assistance being able to receive rental assistance if other eligibility requirements are met.

Enhancements to SAFER include:

• increasing the household income limit for eligibility from $37,240 to $40,000, which is expected to benefit as many as 1,600 more seniors, for an estimated total of 25,000 SAFER recipients; and
• increasing the average supplement by nearly 30%, bringing the average monthly subsidy for existing seniors to $337.

“The SAFER program is an essential support for low-income B.C. seniors living on fixed incomes who are struggling with the rising cost of rent, groceries and other items needed for healthy aging,” said Dan Levitt, B.C. seniors advocate. “I’m pleased more seniors will be eligible to receive SAFER, however, I’d still like to see the SAFER program be indexed to inflation and have government commit to ensuring the program is meeting its goal to have recipients paying no more than 30% of their income on rent. The seniors’ demographic in B.C. is increasing rapidly and supports such as SAFER are critically important for the quality of life for low-income seniors.”

Through Budget 2025, the Province is investing an additional $375 million over the next three years to enhance both RAP and SAFER programs. This includes the $75 million committed through an agreement with the B.C. Green Party caucus to boost the programs and deliver more supports for families and seniors.

“The B.C. Greens have long advocated for stronger rental support, and we’re proud to see these improvements through our accord with the NDP,” said Rob Botterell, MLA for Saanich North and the Islands. “Housing must be a priority and the $75 million we secured will help more families and seniors get the help they need to make rents more affordable.”

To ensure that eligible families and seniors are fully informed about the support available to them, BC Housing has launched a public awareness campaign.

Learn More:

For information about the Rental Assistance Program and the Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters program, visit: https://www.bchousing.org/housing-assistance/rental-assistance-programs

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/

Quesnel Council Highlights - April 1st, 2025 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Development Services

Council approved the following development permits subject to specified conditions:

DP2024-71 for the construction of a 4-storey hotel at 720 Rita Road.

DP2025-81 for the construction of a new 5-storey, 35-unit residential building on 319 North Fraser Drive in a Commercial and Floodplain Development Permit Area.

DP2025-82 a variance request for consideration for a cover-all storage shelter sited on shipping containers built without permits at 2153 Dragon Hill Road.

Annual Water Report & Manganese Removal and Water Treatment

Council directed staff to work towards meeting the conditions of the Quesnel Community Water System operating permit, which requires treatment for manganese levels higher than the federal guidelines by June 2030. Staff will seek funding sources to assist in treating city water with chlorination and UV disinfection, a method that will ensure no traces of chlorine remain in the drinking water after treatment.

The 2024 Annual Water Report can be viewed at the front desk of City Hall and on the City of Quesnel website.

2025 Business Improvement Area Levies

Council approved the following grants to the Business Improvement Areas for 2025 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.

Quesnel Downtown Association $74,083

South Quesnel Business Association $80,000

West Quesnel Business Association $41,616

Dragon Mountain Communications Towers

Council approved a lobby effort directed at the Minister of Environment and Parks to expedite wildfire risk reduction inside Dragon Mountain Park.

Dragon Mountain is the hub of a communication tower network that serves the North Cariboo Region for cellular and emergency support services, as well as many other utilities and industry needs. With annual wildfires and evacuation orders in the Cariboo, protection of this critical infrastructure is of paramount concern to the City and surrounding residents to ensure safety and effective communication during an emergency event.

North Central Local Government Association Convention Bid 

Council consensus was that a bid from the City to host an NCLGA convention should be submitted for 2028 to align with the City’s 100th anniversary and, potential benefit of additional suites with the completion of the Marriott Fairfield hotel.

Community Transit Partnership Agreements - Wells & Nazko

Council approved five-year Community Transit Partnership Agreements with both the Nazko First Nation and the District of Wells.

Cariboo Pulp & Paper Sewage Treatment

Council approved the Amending Effluent (sewage) Treatment Agreement between the City and Cariboo Pulp & Paper for one year.  The agreement will have the City prepare a contingency plan and a long-term plan for sewage treatment, in the event that Cariboo Pulp & Paper is no longer able to provide this service.

Quesnel Regional Airport Lease

Council approved a five-year Lease with the Ministry of Forests for approximately 2.232 hectares of land at the Quesnel Regional Airport;

The BC Wildfire Service has expanded its operations, adding 15 new crew members, 4 of which are new officers to the region, resulting in an expansion to the Quesnel Base. This new lease more than doubles the size of the leased area at the airport to accommodate potential building expansion and additional parking.

The larger Quesnel Fire Centre will result in increased landings at the airport which will generate additional landing fees and fuel sales and a better, more community-based response to wildfires.

Strategic & Operations Plans

Council approved the new Strategic Plan guiding Council's priorities through the current term.

BCAAP Grant

Council directed staff to submit a grant application to the British Columbia Air Access Program for 100% grant funding for facility master plan at the Quesnel Regional Airport based an estimated eligible cost of $35,000.

Announcements

May is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month. Council approved the Quesnel MS Self-Help Group's request to fly the MS flag on the LeBourdais Park community flagpole for the month of May. 

Saturday, May 31, 2025 - Rotary Club of Quesnel is holding a ladies-only event "Dazzle in Disguise" at the Quesnel Seniors' Centre. Admission is $60, which includes dinner, entertainment, and entry for the grand prize of $1000 to Sparkling Hills Resort. Tickets are available at Paradise Spa.

Elections BC issues fine to Williams Lake Mayor's 2022 Campaign

Editor's Note -- for full context, read the letter from Elections BC to Surinderpal Rathor's 2022 Mayoral Election Financial Agent -- https://elections.bc.ca/docs/amp/Enforcement-Notice-Bradley-Huston-2025.pdf

From the Williams Lake Tribune: 

Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor has paid a $2,700 penalty to the Chief Electoral Officer of BC (Elections BC) for a contribution error during his mayoral election campaign in 2022.

During the campaign he accepted seven contributions totally $5,400 that came from organizations but were recorded as coming from individuals when filed on Jan. 11, 2023 with his campaign expenditures report.

Elections BC did a review and informed Rathor and his financial agent, Brad Huston, of the error.

Following that, Rathor and Huston submitted an amended disclosure statement on Sept. 24, 2023, identifying the contributions as prohibited and informing Elections BC they had returned the money to the seven parties that had made the contributions.

The amended statement was then reviewed by Elections BC's investigation team.

“You were cooperative with the investigator, and you indicated that you now have a better knowledge of the rules going forward,” noted a letter addressed Hustaon and dated April 1, 2025.

Speaking from the Council of Forest Industries conference in Prince George Thursday (April 3rd, 2025), Rathor said they complied with all the requests promptly.

“We owned the mistake and we learned from the mistake,” Rathor told the Tribune. “It was an honest mistake by all of us, including me. We were at fault, and admitted the fault.”

Huston told the Tribune they were not hiding anything when they originally submitted the campaign contributions.

"If we did know we are really bad at fraud because when we filled out the forms every donation was listed and we included the company name and they said, 'oh you can't do that.'"

In the letter about the penalty, Elections BC stated it could have been as high as $10,800.

Bullying and Racial Violence are ‘No Joke’ Community Members Rally to Stand Up Together

Courtesy of Esk’etemc First Nation:

Parents, grandparents, and community members from throughout the Cariboo Chilcotin region joined together in a show of solidarity and co-operation to peacefully march to the grounds of School District #27 in Williams Lake. Donning pink shirts, buttons, and signs with the slogan ‘Stand Up’ and ‘Bullying and Racial Violence are no Joke’, the collective of citizens stood together to publicly ask the Minister of Education and Child Care, Lisa Beare, to respond to their calls for an investigation into bullying, harassment, discrimination, and racial violence in schools within the District.

Together, representatives from Esk’etemc First Nation and the Concerned Parents and Caregivers of Williams Lake (CPWL) group, with support from the Union of BC Indian Chiefs (UBCIC), shared their message symbolically in front of the School District offices to ask for equality, safety, and excellence in education for all students in the District.

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, UBCIC President stated, “UBCIC was deeply disappointed by the Superintendent of School District #27’s response to a concerned group of parents, including from Esk’etemc First Nation, as a ‘small, but vocal group’. This dismissive attitude stands in blatant disregard of the concerns shared by parents, caregivers, and B.C. First Nations standing up for the rights and wellbeing of our young learners. By Resolution 2024-42, UBCIC stands alongside Esk’etemc First Nation in calling for a fulsome investigation into the allegations of racism,

discrimination, bullying, and harassment in School District #27. The parents group, Esk’etemc, and UBCIC share the same vision for every child to have the opportunity to attend school in an environment where they feel safe, supported and have a sense of belonging.”

Esk’etemc Kukpi7 Fred Robbins agreed with Grand Chief Phillip, calling on the provincial government to take action without delay.

“Every day that goes by, we hear more and more stories of children and youth, not just from our Nation of Esk’etemc, but throughout the region, who fear going to school. How terrible is that?” said Kukpi7 Robbins. “We have been asking the Ministry of Education and Child Care for an investigation for over a year now. Our last letter, sent in early January of this year, asked Minister Beare to meet with us and have a conversation to hear the concerns and the stories of our community members. Our request for that meeting has gone unanswered. This is why today was so important for us to join with UBCIC and the Concerned Parents and Caregivers of Williams Lake group to show the District and the Ministry that we’re not going away until we can collectively solve the problems in our schools.”

In September of 2024, Kukpi7 Robbins brought forward the concerning stories of Esk’etemc members to the UBCIC to ask for help. The UBCIC passed Resolution 2024-42 at their 56th Annual General Assembly calling on the Ministry of Education and Child Care to ‘address the claims of bullying, harassment, discrimination, and racism at School District #27’ as shared in testimonials and letters from Esk’etemc children, youth, families, and support staff. Instead of an investigation, a Safer Schools review was launched and the lack of communication and engagement with First Nations and community members through the region has been a big disappointment. Not long after, Esk’etemc and the CPWL group met to see how they could collaborate.

“Sadly, our group is growing, which demonstrates how many families in our School District are being negatively impacted by the racial violence, bullying, and other activities that make our kids scared to go to school,” said CPWL group member Melissa Coates. “When we met with leadership and community members from Esk’etemc, we all realized we are advocating for the same thing. This is why we planned to host this event together today, to bring attention to what we are advocating for as a group. In doing this, we hope to encourage other parents, grandparents, and caregivers who feel they and their families are alone to join us to make change in our District. Our kids are counting on us, and we cannot, and will not, let them down.”

Esk’etemc and CPWL are encouraging people to fill out an online survey to share their experiences and stories so that their voices are heard.

“We launched a confidential online survey which closely mirrored the one put out by Safer Schools,” noted Calvin Dubray, Director of Education with Esk’etemc. “Unfortunately, the Safer Schools’ survey essentially had questions that asked for ‘yes’, ‘no’, or ‘I don’t know’ answers and one spot at the end of the survey to share any stories or feedback. Our survey gives children, youth, and their parents or caregivers a chance to answer these questions but also share their stories and challenges. We intend to share themes from the survey results with the Minister, so she truly understands the urgency of what is happening here in our District. We’re tired of being ignored and our kids and youth are too important not to stand up for!”

For those interested in filling out the survey, it is online at: https://bit.ly/standup2025

Concerned Parents and Caregivers of Williams Lake: 

If you are a concerned parent, grandparent, or student, you are invited to contact the Concerned Parents and Caregivers of Williams Lake group via email at cpcgwl@yahoo.com or on Facebook. The group is marked ‘Private’ and the page administrators are quick to respond to people asking to join.

Prescribed burn planned for rural Central Cariboo-Chilcotin areas

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

Upcoming #PrescribedBurn in the rural Central Cariboo-Chilcotin areas 

Locations: 

* Chimney and Felker Lake recreation sites

* north and south sides of Highway 20 near Tŝideldel First Nation

* 35 hectares, along Highway 20 between Hanceville and Chilanko Forks 

Background: 

* Projects to commence later this week (April 2-4, 2025) and conclude April 18th, 2025, all subject to favourable conditions

* Smoke and flames will be visible 

* Crews will ignite ground fuels with hand torches and will control and closely monitor fire activity.

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

For more information: 

* Prescribed Burning: https://prescribedfire.ca/?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=25-Rx-Burn-Central---Westridge&utm_source=Envoke-IB---Central-Zone&utm_term=Information-Bulletin%3A-Prescribed-burn-planned-near-Westridge

* Cariboo Fire Centre: 

Information Officer

Ph: 778 799-2100

Email: CaFCInfo@gov.bc.ca

Williams Lake Council Highlights - April 1st, 2025 mtg

Present in WL Council Chambers: Mayor Rathor; Councillors Delainey, Flaspohler and Lyons 

Present via Zoom: Councillors Boehm 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 and welcomed Cariboo RD Area "D" Director Steve Forseth to tonight's meeting

Meeting Agenda approved  - click here

Meeting Video - click here 

Minutes of the previous City Council meeting was adopted 

Delegations:

1) Sean Gillespie and Frankie Nelson, Atlantic Power & Utilities (Williams Lake) Ltd. appeared before Council via Zoom to provide an update on the Williams Lake Power Plant

Following their presentation -- A Question/Answer period ensued

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

2) Inspector Robert Lake, Williams Lake RCMP Detachment Officer in Charge appeared before Council to provide the 2024 Police Commission Report -- presentation here

 

Following his presentation -- A Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor, on behalf of Council, thanked Insp. Lake for his time/information

3) Taya Vanderkop-Girard, Wildfire Risk Reduction and FireSmart Coordinator, City of Williams Lake appeared before Council to provide an overview of FireSmart Program and Objectives within the City of Williams Lake -- presentation here

Following her presentation -- A Question/Answer period ensued

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

Response to Delegations:

1) That the Police Commission Report for January to December 2024 from Inspector Robert Lake, Officer in Charge for the Williams Lake RCMP detachment, be received for information

2) That the presentation from Taya Vanderkop-Girard, Wildfire Risk Reduction and FireSmart Coordinator, regarding an introduction and overview of the FireSmart Program and objectives be received for information

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated March 20 and 27, 2025

2) Council scheduled the date for the Parcel Tax Roll Reviews to be held in Williams Lake Council Chambers, as follows: 

Water and Sewer on  April 25 @ 9:00 am

Downtown Parking and Business Improvement Area on April 25 @ 9:30 am

3) Council approved free transit services (i.e. conventional and HandyDART) on general voting day for the Federal Election, taking place on Monday, April 28, 2025

4) Council received a memorandum of Mayor Rathor dated March 28, 2025 regarding membership changes to the Executive Committee for 2025

Councillor J. Flaspohler declared a perceived conflict of interest on the next item and left Council Chambers at 7:06pm

5) Council awarded the Pavement Rehabilitation 2025 contract to Peters Bros Construction Ltd. for the total construction tender amount of $570,451.85, excluding GST, and award the 4th Avenue Reconstruction contract to Peterson Contracting Ltd. for the total construction tender amount of $1,032,452.44, excluding GST, and approve award of consulting services in the amount of $75,000 per the City’s engineering services contract, for a total streetworks project value of $1,913,017.04, excluding GST, including contingency and work completed by City staff and directed City Staff to exercise contract clauses to reduce quantities as necessary after award to meet the project budget

Councillor J. Flaspohler returned to Council Chambers at 7:11pm

6) Council approved the use of staff time and equipment for the hauling of material for the 2025 Spring Classic Indoor Rodeo

7) Council referred a report of the Director of Municipal Services regarding the Lake Harvester Program to Committee of the Whole for further discussion

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillors J. Flaspohler and A. Delainey 

8) Council referred the letter from the North Central Local Government Association dated March 21, 2025 regarding "Reforming the Local Government Act: A Roadmap - Survey Link" to Committee of the Whole for further discussion

9) Council proclaimed the following:

* lights of City Hall be changed to blue on April 11, 2025 for "World Parkinson's Day" and the #SparktheNight campaign

* lights of City Hall be changed to purple on May 10, 2025 for "World Lupus Day".

10) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of April 1st, 2025

The Chief Administrative Officer provided a verbal update to Council and responded to questions from Council 

And then Council adjourned at 7:56pm

Steve's Meeting/Expense Calendar - March 2025

In the month of March 2025 -- I attended the following meetings or events:

* March 2 - McLeese Lake Farmers Market Society AGM at the Alexandria Community Hall

* March 6 - March 2025 meeting of McLeese Lake Recreation Commission at the McLeese Lake Community Hall

* March 10th -- Zoom call with BC Electoral Area Directors'.  Special guest - Hon. Brittny Anderson, BC Minister of State for Local Government/Rural Communities 

* March 12-14, 2025 -- Local Government Leadership Academy's Annual Leadership Forum in Richmond, BC

* March 19 -- Picture with new Cariboo RD Area "D" Alternate Director, Angelina Bennetts of Pine Valley, at Reservoir Lake, just south of Pine Valley and then attend monthly meeting of Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom

* March 20 -- Committee of the Whole (Cariboo RD Board) meeting in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom

* March 21 -- Meetings of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District & Cariboo Regional District Boards' 

* March 26 -- Monthly meeting of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee

* March 27 -- Monthly meeting of the Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce

* March 29 -- 1st Annual Volunteer Recognition Dinner for McLeese Lake volunteers at the McLeese Lake Community Hall 

In addition, responded to inquiries from Cariboo RD Area "D" residents' via phone/text, social media or email

In the month of March 2025 -- I submitted the following expenses:

* March 12-14, 2025 [LGLA Annual Leadership Forum]: $32.00 - WL Airport Parking Fees; $28.75 - taxi from YVR South Terminal to Hotel and $34.50 - Transit Fees between Hotel and LGLA Forum site.  Hotel, Registration and Flight between Williams Lake and Richmond directly paid by the Regional District and funded by Electoral Area Administration

* March 19th -- $83 to attend Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus meeting

* March 20th -- $206 to attend Committee of the Whole (Cariboo RD Board) meeting 

* March 21st -- $206 to attend meetings' of Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District & Cariboo Regional District Boards' 

* March 27th -- $83 to attend Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting

North Cariboo Joint Committee holds Special Closed Meeting today!

Later today from 3:30pm - 6:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel) --

The North Cariboo Joint Committee which is a Committee of the Cariboo Regional District and whose membership consists of all of Quesnel City Council as well as the Cariboo Regional District Areas A,B,C,I Directors' will be holding a Special Closed (In-Camera) Meeting under the provisions of Sections 92 + 90(1L - Strategic Planning) of the Community Charter

View the full Closed Meeting Notice here

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