Water Supply Given a Clean Bill of Health in Wells, BC

Courtesy of the District of Wells:

Recent water quality testing conducted by the District of Wells (District) validates that District water supply meets provincial water quality standards as safe to drink.  

The District had been under a precautionary Water Quality Advisory for lead in the water supply since January 2021.  

With recent testing meeting all water sampling protocols, lead in the water supply is now within the Guidelines for Canadian Water Quality maximum concentration of 0.005 mg/L (5 parts per billion).  Northern Health, holding responsibility for all water quality advisories, has confirmed the safety of drinking water in the District of Wells.  

The recent completion of the $640,000 water treatment facility upgrade also assures water quality meets all non-lead related water quality standards.  

While the District of Wells water supply meets all water quality guidelines for lead in water, the following practice is recommended: 

• Flush any stagnant water from your home’s plumbing pipes by letting your cold-water tap run for 1 to 5 minutes or until the water turns colder. This should be done before drinking or cooking, first thing in the morning or any other time the plumbing system has not been used for several hours. 

• Always use cold water for cooking or drinking as hot water can increase the leaching of lead. 

• Water filtration systems, although not necessary, can be used to remove lead from drinking water if concerned. Lead will not enter the body through skin or by breathing in vapours while showering or bathing. 

In British Columbia, water quality is protected by legislation requiring water suppliers to regularly perform water quality tests and treat water accordingly if necessary.  The District of Wells complies with all safety protocols.  

For District of Wells residents, the bottled water being supplied will be discontinued immediately.  Please return all empty water jugs to the Wells Community Hall on Sanders Avenue

For More Information: 

BC Ministry of Health:  

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-landwater/water/water-quality/drinking-water-quality 

Government of Canada Drinking Water Guidelines:

https://www.canada.ca/en/healthcanada/services/environmental-workplace-health/water-quality/drinking-water/canadian-drinkingwater-guidelines.html 

Williams Lake Council Highlights - Nov 19th, 2024 mtg

Present: Acting Mayor S.Boehm and Councillors Delainey, Flaspohler, Lyons, Moses and Nelson 

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

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

Meeting Agenda approved - click here

Minutes of the previous City Council meeting held November 5th, 2024 was adopted

Meeting video here 

Delegation: 

A delegation from Interior Health and Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice appeared before Council to provide a Quarterly Update - presentation here

Following the delegation's presentation - A Question/Answer period ensued 

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

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated November 7 and 14, 2024

2) Council approved requesting BC's Minister of Municipal Affairs/Housing (Hon. Ravi Kahlon) to grant powers pursuant to Section 781 of the Local Government Act, for the disposition (write-off) of $60,888.15 uncollectible property taxes receivable, including penalty and interest amounts for property at 351 Hodgson Road

3) Council approved a 2025 application to Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) for a grant of up to $50,000 to host an intern under the Local Government Internship Program and that Council commits to providing a financial contribution of $10,000 and staffing resources to host an intern and to providing training and professional development opportunities for the intern, if the application is successful

4) Council deferred consideration of the preliminary 2025 budget, 2025-2029 financial plan and 10-year capital plan to the next Committee of the Whole meeting

5) Council approved the amended Statement of Works (SOW) provided by Recycle BC and directed the Mayor and Corporate Officer to sign the amendment on behalf of the City

6) Council approved moving to next design phases for the Water Treatment Plant based on the use of chloramines for disinfection

7) Council adopted the following Bylaws:

i) Parks and Public Land Bylaw No. 2419, 2024

ii) Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 2421, 2024 (Parks and Public Lands Fines)

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillor S. Nelson

8) Council proclaimed the month of November 2024 as "Lung Cancer Awareness Month" in the City of Williams Lake

9) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of November 19th, 2024

Council received verbal updates regarding progress on Atlantic Power and the Water Treatment Plant

Acting Mayor Boehm welcomed Cariboo RD Area "D" Director Steve Forseth to tonight's Williams Lake City Council meeting

Members of Council then reported on their recent activities 

Resolution to Close the Meeting to the Public:

At 7:47pm -- Council adopted the following Resolution:

That Council now resolve into a Closed Meeting, following adjournment of the Open Meeting of Council - according to Section 92 of the Community Charter for discussion of items identified under Section 90 (1) of the Community Charter:

(1c) labour relations or other employee relations

Council adjourned at 7:48pm 

New BC Cabinet appointed!

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

BC Premier David Eby has appointed a new cabinet that is ready to listen to British Columbians and deliver on the core challenges people are facing – a team that combines years of experience and fresh perspectives from outside of government.

“At a time when there is a lot of worry and uncertainty about the future, British Columbians have asked us to work together and get things done that make a real difference in their daily lives,” said Premier Eby. “This experienced and capable team will be focused on addressing the priority issues we heard loud and clear from British Columbians. We’re honoured to have been given the opportunity to tackle these serious challenges.”

The new cabinet’s top priorities will be bringing down costs for families, strengthening health care, making communities safer and growing the economy so everyone feels the benefits. Foundational to this work is a commitment to build partnerships with Indigenous communities and take action on climate change, both key to building a more prosperous B.C. for future generations.

“These are big challenges and tackling them all will take time. Getting there will take listening and learning from British Columbians of different perspectives,” Premier Eby said. “While British Columbians may sometimes disagree, we all want the same basic things in life – a good paycheque, a home we can afford in a safe community and high-quality health care that’s there when we need it. By working together on these common challenges, we can build a brighter future for everyone.”

The new provincial cabinet reflects the diversity and strengths of British Columbia. There will be more women than men in cabinet. Key portfolios are also filled by people with relevant professional and community experience, which will bring a real-world perspective to tackling today’s big challenges.

There will be separate ministries for Energy and Climate Solutions and Mining and Critical Minerals, reflecting the government’s commitment to leverage B.C.’s strength as a clean-energy powerhouse with the critical minerals that are essential to growing the clean economy.

The new cabinet includes 23 ministers and four ministers of state, and is supported in its work by 14 parliamentary secretaries. The cabinet is as follows:

• Premier: David Eby
  • Minister of State for Local Governments and Rural Communities: Brittny Anderson
• Agriculture and Food: Lana Popham
• Attorney General and Deputy Premier: Niki Sharma
• Children and Family Development: Grace Lore
• Citizens’ Services: George Chow
• Education and Child Care: Lisa Beare
  • Minister of State for Child Care and Children and Youth with Support Needs: Jodie Wickens
• Emergency Management and Climate Readiness: Kelly Greene
• Energy and Climate Solutions: Adrian Dix
• Environment and Parks: Tamara Davidson
• Finance: Brenda Bailey
• Forests: Ravi Parmar
• Health: Josie Osborne
• Housing and Municipal Affairs: Ravi Kahlon
• Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation: Christine Boyle
• Infrastructure: Bowinn Ma
• Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation: Diana Gibson
  • Minister of State for Trade: Rick Glumac
• Labour: Jennifer Whiteside
• Mining and Critical Minerals: Jagrup Brar
• Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills: Anne Kang
• Public Safety and Solicitor General: Garry Begg
  • Minister of State for Community Safety and Integrated Services: Terry Yung
• Social Development and Poverty Reduction: Sheila Malcolmson
• Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport: Spencer Chandra Herbert
• Transportation and Transit and House Leader: Mike Farnworth
• Water, Land and Resource Stewardship: Randene Neill

The Parliamentary Secretaries are:

• Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives: Jessie Sunner
• Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture: Harwinder Sandhu
• Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity: Jennifer Blatherwick
• Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Development: Steve Morissette
• Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors’ Services and Long-Term Care: Susie Chant
• Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Health: Debra Toporowski
• Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health and Addictions: Amna Shah
• Parliamentary Secretary for Asia Pacific Trade: Paul Choi
• Parliamentary Secretary for Labour: Darlene Rotchford
• Parliamentary Secretary for International Credentials: Sunita Dhir
• Parliamentary Secretary for Accessibility: Dana Lajeunesse
• Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development and Non-profits: Joan Phillip
• Parliamentary Secretary for Transit: George Anderson
• Parliamentary Secretary for Arts and Film: Nina Krieger

Wildfire Risk Reduction Project planned for Sisters Creek Recreation Area

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

B.C. Wildfire Service and the B.C. Ministry of Forests, operating within the Quesnel Natural Resource District, will be conducting wildfire risk reduction treatments and pile burning activities at Sisters Creek Recreation Area in the Community of Kersley. The treatment area is located approximately 20 kilometers south of Quesnel and two kilometers west of Highway 97.

 

Completing this project will help reduce the wildfire hazard around Kersley as well as help restore the grown-in stands to a more natural/desirable state. This project will be approximately eight hectares of manual hand treatment on both sides of roads and trails within the Sisters Creek Recreation Area. The scope of the work involves removing the surface and ladder fuels, as well as pruning and thinning out the forest to create tree crown separation and reduce the risk of a high-intensity crown fires. Crews of five to twelve people will be working on both sides of the road and into the forested area, please use caution and pay attention to signage when recreating on trail and road networks within this area.

 

Wildfire risk reduction activities are expected to start November 15, 2024 eventually transitioning to pile burning and fuel clean up. Burning is expected to begin on any day that the venting forecast is fair until March 20, 2025. Ignitions and burning will only proceed if weather and site conditions are suitable and allow smoke to dissipate.

 

Smoke and flames may be visible from Kersley, Highway 97, and surrounding areas.

 

The Ministry of Forests has completed several wildfire risk reduction projects within the resource district, including areas around Nazko, Tibbles Road, Marsh Road, and Barkerville.

 

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 at BCWS cultural and prescribed fire.

 

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:

• 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.
• Reduce the length and intensity of outdoor activities.
• Manage pre-existing conditions, and seek medical care if you have severe symptoms.

 

Learn more about protecting health from smoke online: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke

 

Stay up-to-date on the latest BC Wildfire news on:

• Facebook
• X (formerly Twitter)
• YouTube
• The BC Wildfire Service mobile app (download it now on Apple or Android!)

 

Contact:

Vincent Luu, RPF

Land and Resource Specialist

Quesnel Natural Resource District

Ministry of Forests

Land.Resources.DQU@gov.bc.ca,

250-992-4400

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings: Week of November 18-22, 2024

During the week of November 18-22, 2024 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments or Boards of Education will be holding meetings, as follows:

Wells: Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 19th, 2024 at 3pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue) and via Zoom.  When available, the Meeting Agenda can be viewed here

Quesnel: Regular Meeting of the Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee on Wednesday, November 20th, 2024 at 9am in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* 2025 Capital Budget

* 3rd Quarter 2024 update on Capital Budget

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Williams Lake: 

1) Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 19th, 2024 at 6pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Interior Health re: Quarterly Presentation

* Request to Write-Off Uncollectible Taxes at 351 Hodgson Road

* NDIT Grant Application - 2025 Local Government Internship Program

* 2025 Budget and 2025-2029 Financial Plan and 10-Year Capital Plan - Preliminary Approval by Council

* Closed Council Meeting (to follow Open Council Meeting) -- Section 90(1c - labour) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) Special Closed Council Meeting on Thursday, November 21st, 2024 at 1:30pm under the provisions of Sections 90(1c,j - labour and information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter.  View the closed meeting notice here

Cariboo Regional District:

1) South Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus -- Regular Meeting on Monday, November 18th, 2024 at 11:40am in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House).  On the Agenda:

* 2025 Caucus Schedule

View the full Meeting Schedule here

2) South Cariboo Joint Committee -- Regular Meeting on Monday, November 18th, 2024 at 12:00pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: BC Transit re: discuss 100 Mile House Transit Operations and regional contract RFP

* South Cariboo Interim Housing Needs Assessment Report for Endorsement

* Request from South Cariboo Community Enhancement Foundation re: Funding Request

* Grants for Assistance Applications

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

View the full Meeting Agenda here

3) Special Closed Meeting of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board -- Thursday, November 21st, 2024 at 2:30pm under the provision of Section 90(1j - information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter.  View the Open Meeting Agenda here

City of Williams Lake Endowment Fund Holiday Campaign Starts with $50,000 Contribution

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake is rolling out a Holiday Campaign starting November 12 to help raise funds for the City of Williams Lake Endowment Fund, which was established in 2021.

Thanks to multiple significant contributions from a private donor and a matching gift from Northern Development Initiative Trust, the fund is already valued at roughly $375,000.

Once the fund grows large enough, grants will be offered to community groups and organizations in Williams Lake. The goal is to generate consistent community funding through interest earned on the fund for years to come.

The City of Williams Lake has started the 2024 campaign with a $50,000 contribution to the fund. 

“Now we need the community’s help to reach the City’s next milestone of $1 million, at which point we can start donating the interest and make a real difference in the community,” said City of Williams Lake Manager of Economic Development Beth Veenkamp.

“Every dollar received adds to the funding pool, and interest earned is generated to flow back into the fund and, eventually, the community for generations to come.”

While the Prince George Community Foundation provides administrative support, the City of Williams Lake is responsible for growing the fund and retains control over how the interest income will be spent in the community.

Tax receipts for the City’s Endowment Fund will be issued from PGCF, but donors can be assured funds will remain within the Williams Lake fund and will continue to grow.  

“Contributing to the Williams Lake Endowment Fund is a great way to leave a lasting legacy to our community,” Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor said. “This is a fantastic opportunity to invest in the future of Williams Lake and, for those of us who have been lucky enough to call Williams Lake home, a chance to pay it forward to generations to come.”

Stay tuned to the City’s Facebook and Instagram pages from now through until the end of December for more on the Endowment Fund.

For more information on the City of Williams Lake Endowment Fund and how to donate, visit: www.williamslake.ca/950/City-of-Williams-Lake-Endowment-Fund

Remembrance Day 2024

 

City of Williams Lake invites Residents to Shape Future of Active Transportation

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake invites the entire community to get involved in the active transportation network planning process.

The City is teaming up with Fraser Basin Council and Urban Systems to develop an Active Transportation Network Plan (ATNP) and is seeking community feedback. 

Active transportation includes all human-powered transportation modes, including walking, cycling, skateboarding, using a mobility aid, or e-scooters and e-bikes.

Through collaboration with community members, the ATNP will create a complete and comfortable active transportation network in Williams Lake for people of all ages and abilities, as well as help guide decision-making and investments related to active transportation improvements.

The grant-funded project aims to make it safer and easier to get around by walking, cycling, or rolling throughout the community.

“Providing more options for active transportation can play an important role in promoting a healthy, equitable and accessible community,” said Jane Wellburn, Fraser Basin Council Regional Manager, Cariboo Chilcotin. “Input from community members will form the foundation of this project and we would like to hear from a range of voices to create an ATNP that reflects the community’s active transportation interests and needs.”

To help to facilitate discussion and collaboration, the City has formed an Active Transportation Working Group with multiple user groups who will be involved in the project.

Throughout the planning process there will be a variety of additional opportunities for the community to provide input. To launch the community engagement process, community members are encouraged to participate in a community survey (https://www.surveymonkey.ca/r/WL_ATNP). Paper copies will also be available at Williams Lake City Hall and at various locations throughout the community.

“The survey will help us better understand how residents currently move around the community for their daily needs, identify current challenges and explore future opportunities for active transportation,” Wellburn said.

The deadline to participate in the survey is Monday, December 2, 2024.

To stay informed about the Active Transportation Network Plan visit the project website at

www.williamslake.ca/1025/Active-Transportation-in-Williams-Lake or follow the City of Williams Lake on Facebook, Instagram and X.

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government/Board of Education Meetings: Week of November 12-15

As a result of the Remembrance Day Long Weekend: Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments or Boards' of Education will have a shortened work week, as follows

School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Board of Education meeting to be held on Wednesday, November 13th at 7pm in the SD28 Boardroom (401 North Star Rd, Quesnel).  On the Agenda:

* Annual Elections (Chair, Vice-Chair, Committee reps.)

* Reports of the Superintendent

View the full Agenda here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) -- Committee Meetings, as noted below, at the SD27 Administration Office (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake)... 

1) Finance/Facilities Committee -- Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 12th at 4:15pm.  On the Agenda:

* Multi-Year Financial Plan

* Facility Rental and Use Update

* Transportation Update 

View the full Agenda here

2) Education Committee -- Regular Meeting on Wednesday, November 13th at 4pm.  On the Agenda:

* Draft - District Plan for Learner Success 2024 

* School Plans

View the full Agenda here

  

100 Mile House - Meetings, as noted below, all in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue) on Tuesday, November 12th, 2024

1) Committee of the Whole (Capital Budget 2025 Discussions) - to be held at 3:00pm

2) Regular Council Meeting - to be held at 5:00pm.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation -- Enbridge re: Sunrise Expansion Project 

* Bylaw Officer's report for October 2024

* Redevelopment of Wells in the District of 100 Mile House

* Municipal Facilities and Events Booking Policy 

View the full Agenda here

3) Committee of the Whole - to be held at 5:30pm or upon adjournment of the Regular Council Meeting.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Hot July Nights 

* Discussion Items: First St. & Birch Ave Intersection and 721 Cariboo Trail - Zoning Application 

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District -- North Cariboo sub-regional Committee Meetings, as follows:

1) North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus -- Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 12th at 3pm in the Cariboo RD Quesnel Office (101-410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Emcon Services 

* 2025 North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus Meeting Schedule

* Discussion Items: North Cariboo Grants for Assistance and Future Delegations 

* Closed Caucus Meeting - Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

2) North Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 12th at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations: Introduction to the City of Quesnel's Event Coordinator, Ksenya Dorwart; Housing Needs Assessment - Presentation by Brendan Dawe – Urbanics and Quesnel Rodeo Club - President, Ray Jasper

* Administration Report #02/25 - Quarterly Budget Update

* Administration Report #01/25 - 2025 North Cariboo Recreation & Parks Budget & Financial Plan

View the full Agenda here

City of Williams Lake Celebrates Collaborative Project Bringing New Outdoor Fitness Equipment to Kiwanis Park

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake joined members from the Rotary Club of Williams Lake Wednesday afternoon for a small celebration in Kiwanis Park to officially unveil the new outdoor fitness park equipment installed earlier this week.

A collaboration between the City and the Rotary Club of Williams Lake, the new fitness park features 10 pieces of outdoor fitness equipment that can be used during all four seasons.

“We are so pleased to be able to provide this new equipment for the benefit of everyone in our community,” Rotary Club of Williams Lake President Amber Stratton said. “No matter your age or ability level, there will be equipment that all users can enjoy.”

The project was made possible through grant funding provided from Northern Development Initiative Trust’s Community Spaces Fund and the BC Alliance for Healthy Living Society funded by the Ministry of Health as part of the BC Physical Activity Strategy. Financial contributions were also made by the Rotary Club of Williams Lake, District Rotary 5040 and the Cariboo Regional District. 

“The City is pleased to participate in partnership projects such as this one,” Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor said. “This is such a wonderful addition to our parks and I am grateful to our staff who have worked so well with the Rotary Club of Williams Lake and our generous donors to make it happen.”

Located close to the Williams Lake Seniors’ Activity Centre, the Rotary Club of Williams Lake said one of its goals was to provide more fitness and recreation options for seniors; however, added they are delighted to note the new park amenity is also wheelchair accessible.  

“We are so excited to have this new amenity so close to the Williams Lake Senior’s Activity Centre,” WLSAC Manager Kylie Green said. “Next spring we will look forward to working with the Cariboo Memorial Recreation staff to feature some fitness classes geared towards seniors using this new space.”

The fitness equipment will be available for use during the winter months. Instructions and fitness tips can be accessed by using the QR codes located on each piece of equipment. 

Cariboo RD Finance/Budget Committee Highlights - Nov 6th, 2024 meeting

Present: Chair J. Glassford; Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais, Richmond, Wagner, Pare, De Vries, Roodenburg, Rathor and Pinkney 

Meeting commenced 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 (click here)

Minutes of the Committee meeting held February 29th, 2024 were received/adopted

Business:

The Committee commenced its' review of the 2025 Business Plans for the 124 Services of the Cariboo Regional District and Regional District Managers/CFO or CAO responded to questions of the Committee 

Resolved: That an additional business plan goal for 2025 in the Solid Waste Management Service (Rural Refuse) be added -- "complete a service standards review at all rural transfer stations"

The Committee received a report of the CFO concerning a preliminary overview of the 2025-2029 Financial Plan for the Cariboo Regional District 

The Committee adjourned at 12:56pm

Williams Lake Council Highlights - Nov. 5th, 2024 meeting

Present: Mayor Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Delainey, Flaspohler, Lyons, Moses (via Zoom) 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 with Late Items

Minutes of previous City Council meetings were adopted

Meeting video here

Delegation:

1) Bert Groenenberg and Ruth Lloyd, Streets for All Williams Lake appeared before Council to discuss June BC Active Transportation Summit

Following their presentation (click here) - a Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor thanked the delegation for their time/information

Response to Delegations:

Council referred to Staff the presentation of Bert Groenenberg and Ruth Lloyd, Streets for All Williams Lake regarding information learned at the BC Active Transportation Summit held in New Westminster, BC and potential projects to be identified, via grants, through the annual budgeting process

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated October 24 and 31, 2024 

2) Council endorsed recommendations from a previous meeting of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee, as follows:

* That pursuant to Central Cariboo Joint Committee Report #09-2024, the agenda item summary from Lore Schick, Deputy Corporate Officer/Executive Assistant, Cariboo Regional District dated October 15, 2024 regarding the Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting schedule for 2025 be received and the schedule be endorsed as follows, with meeting start times to be 5:30 PM:

        Wednesday, January 22, 2025 (CRD)

        Wednesday, February 26, 2025 (CRD)

        Wednesday, March 26, 2025 (CRD)

        Wednesday, April 23, 2025 (CRD)

        Wednesday, May 21, 2025 (City)

        Wednesday, June 18, 2025 (City)

        Wednesday, September 17, 2025 (City)

        Wednesday, October 22, 2025 (City)

        Wednesday, November 26, 2025 (City)

* That pursuant to Central Cariboo Joint Committee Report #07-2024 and the report of the Director of Community Services dated October 7, 2024, the Fee for Service agreement with the Williams Lake Cycling Club be renewed for a further three-year term effective 2025 through 2027 in the amount of $30,000 per year; and further, that the schedule for issuance of funds be amended to allow that 50% of the contract be paid the first Thursday in April and the remaining 50% be paid the first Thursday in July, and the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreement

* That pursuant to Central Cariboo Joint Committee Report #08-2024 and the report of the Director of Community Services dated October 7, 2024, the Fee for Service agreement with the Scout Island Nature Centre be renewed for a further three-year term effective 2025 through 2027 in the amount of $30,000 per year; and further, that the schedule for issuance of funds be amended to allow that each year the contract is paid out at 100% in February of each year, and the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreement.

3) Council agreed to amend the City of Williams Lake Employee Computer Purchase Plan Policy No. 188 to include the purchase of smartphones and tablets, and adding the condition that the policy applies only to full-time staff with at least one year of employment, and staff were directed to update the purchasing procedure accordingly

4) Council received information regarding the OCP public consultation for Bylaw No. 2382, and gave second readings to City of Williams Lake Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2382 and City of Williams Lake Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2383 for property at 1138 Lakeview Crescent; staff were directed to issue notice of the applications to surrounding property owners and tenants within a 100 metre radius of the subject property and a Public Hearing be scheduled for December 3, 2024 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers of City Hall

5) Council agreed to provide a resolution in support of Cariboo Regional District “Central Cariboo Search and Rescue Service Amendment Bylaw No. 5461, 2024"

6) Council awarded the request for proposal for a transformer replacement to Valley Power Line Construction Ltd. for the proposed price of $66,150.00 including all applicable taxes

7) Council approved the new Snow and Ice Control Policy No. 231; Snow and Ice Control Policy No. 97 was repealed and that a review be conducted of Policy #231 prior to the 2025/26 winter season

8) Pursuant to Section 131 of the Community Charter (click here) -- Mayor Rathor required Williams Lake City Council to reconsider Council Resolution #380/24, as follows:

That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #26-2024, the presentation from Cianna O'Connor regarding overdose awareness be received for information; and further, that Council work with the Interior Health Authority to discuss safe consumption sites.

Following discussion - Council Resolution 380/24 was adopted (once again)

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Mayor Rathor; Councillor S. Nelson

9) Council endorsed recommendations from a previous Committee of Whole Council meeting, as follows:

* That pursuant to the report of the Senior Bylaw Officer dated October 31, 2024, together with Committee of Whole Council Report #28-2024 and the report of the Senior Bylaw Officer dated October 22, 2024, “City of Williams Lake Parks and Public Lands Bylaw No. 2419, 2024” and “City of Williams Lake Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 2421, 2024” be introduced and given first three readings; and further, that staff be directed to enforce the proposed bylaw based on the status quo enforcement process (including no additional staff positions and based on complaints received)

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillor S. Nelson

* That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #29-2024, the report of the Chief Financial Officer dated October 4, 2024 and the 2024 Fee for Service Agreement Annual reports be received; and further, that Council approve the new Fee for Service applications from the Stampede Parade Society, in the amount of $15,000, and the Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy, in the amount of $2,800, each for a one-year term.

* That, pursuant to the October 8, 2024 report of the Senior Engineering Technologist, Council consider options for for Water Treatment Plant disinfection; Council directed Staff to proceed with Option 1 (Maintain the current grant project budget and schedule, adopting the use of chloramines)

10) Council received the Minutes of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting held October 23, 2024

11) Council agreed to provide a letter in support of the Barkerville Heritage Trust's bid for continued management and operation of Barkerville Historic Town and Cottonwood Historic Site

12) Council received for information a letter from the Deputy Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness Tara Richards dated October 24, 2024 regarding the meeting with Williams Lake City Council representatives on September 18, 2024 during the annual UBCM Convention

13) Council reported out on a previous In-Camera Resolution from its' October 22nd, 2024 In-Camera Meeting, as follows:

“That pursuant to the report of the Deputy Corporate Officer dated October 18, 2024 and Accessibility Advisory Committee Report #04-2024, Council remove current member Troy Johnny and appoint Kesha Neal and Mike Dewing as new members of the Accessibility Advisory Committee

14) Late Item -- Council authorized the raising of the National Metis flag in honour of Louis Riel on November 16, 2024 on the City's flag pole

15) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of Nov. 5th, 2024

A verbal report was provided by the Mayor, as to progress regarding Atlantic Power was provided to Council

Members of Council provided reports on their recent activities

Proceed to Closed/In-Camera Council Meeting:

At 8:47pm -- Council adopted the following Resolution: 

That Council now resolve into a Closed Meeting, following adjournment of the Open Council Meeting, according to Section 92 of the Community Charter; for discussion of items identified under Section 90 (1) or (2) of the Community Charter: 

(1c) labour relations or other employee relations

Council adjourned at 8:49pm

Central Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus Highlights - Nov 5th, 2024 mtg

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

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

Meeting agenda adopted, as amended

Minutes of the previous Rural Caucus meeting were received/adopted

Delegation:

Shea De La Mare, Quality Manager, and Acting Manager of Operations for Dawson Road Maintenance SA 17, appeared before the Caucus to discuss Dawson Road Maintenance's activities in the Central Cariboo and Chilcotin.

Following his presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair thanked Mr. De La Mare for his time/information... 

Business:

1) 2025 Draft Caucus Meeting Schedule

A report from the Deputy Corporate Officer was presented 

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved: That it be recommended to the Regional Board:

That Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus establish its' meeting schedule for 2025 as follows:

Wednesday January 22, 2025 

Wednesday February 26, 2025 

Wednesday March 19, 2025 

Thursday April 10, 2025 

Thursday May 22, 2025 

Wednesday June 18, 2025 

Wednesday September 3, 2025 

Thursday October 2, 2025 

Wednesday November 12, 2025 

2) Caucus held a general discussion about the upcoming Joint Grant for Assistance review with the City of Williams Lake in late November 2024 

No resolution resulted from the discussion

Caucus adjourned at 3:45pm

Fuel Management Treatment Work to Begin in Westridge Drive/Country Club Boulevard Areas

Courtesy of City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake will be conducting a fuel management treatment project between the residential areas of Westridge Drive and Country Club Boulevard.

Work is set to begin this month and will continue throughout 2024 and into 2025 depending on weather conditions and aims to reduce the threat of wildfire to homes, structures and recreation values, as well as to improve and maintain the grassland ecosystems present in the area. The total area of fuel treatment works is 68 hectares.

“The intent is to create a healthier, more open forest that will not support aggressive wildfires and will be safer for crews to fight wildfires in,” said Evan Dean, Director of Protective Services and Williams Lake Fire Department Chief.

Specific fuel management treatment activities may include:

• Danger tree removal
• High retention partial harvesting
• Spacing and pruning of the understory conifer trees
• Surface fuel clean-up
• Pile burning and/or chipping of cut material

Residents and motorists travelling through the City may see smoke and flames during project operations.

Funding for the project was secured through the Province’s Community Resiliency Investment Program and is a continuation of work started in 2022.

Cariboo RD Area "D" 2024 Community Survey

Last month, I did a #CaribooRD Electoral Area "D" Community Survey for items to work on in 2025, for those living on or residing in:

* Soda Creek Road (past the City of Williams Lake municipal boundaries) 

* Mile 168 Road 

* Commodore Heights 

* Pine Valley 

* Fox Mountain 

* Wildwood 

* Deep Creek 

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

* Tyee Lake 

* Blue Lake 

* Soda Creek Valley 

* McLeese Lake/Duckworth Lake 

* Macalister 

* Marguerite 

A big THANK YOU for the 47 people who filled out the electronic survey 

Broadly speaking, the following topics came forward: 

* Roads (Item most often raised and will continue to advocate on this throughout the Electoral Area) 

* Internet Access (there should be movement on this item in Deep Creek, Wildwood, PIne Valley by the end of 2026) 

* Streetlights in McLeese Lake 

* Seniors' Care Services in McLeese Lake 

* Garbage/Recycling Curbside PIck up (previously, the Regional District has surveyed residents' in Commodore Heights, Pine Valley, Fox Mountain for this service and rejected by local residents) 

* More Policing Services including clamping down on speeding (am working on this) 

* Animal Control in the Electoral Area (working on this for 2025 through Regional District initiated survey) 

* Allowance of 2nd Family Dwelling on ALR Land 

* Secondary Dwelling on Rural Properties (already permitted in many cases -- rural residents' just need to contact Regional District planning staff at 250-392-3351 to start the process) ...

* FireSmart Programming (Regional District is working on this..) 

* Independent VFD funding support (proposed to use Regional District Staff time to research a funding model recently approved in principle by TNRD (Thompson Nicola RD) Board however this was rejected by a 10-4 vote of the Cariboo Regional District Board..  Will continue to advocate for Independent VFD's at McLeese Lake/Tyee Lake ... 

* Water Testing at Tyee Lake 

Again, thank you to everyone who submitting a response and I will do what I can to address the concerns brought forward to the best of my ability... 

Yours in service, 

Steve

Cariboo RD Board begins 2025 Budget Discussions'

The Cariboo Regional District Board, meeting in Finance Committee (of the Whole) begins its’ 2025 budget review starting this coming Wednesday

Key Points: 

* Regional District website as the 2025 Budget and Five Year Financial Plan is developed — 

https://www.cariboord.ca/en/regional-government/budget-and-finances.aspx?fbclid=IwY2xjawGTkqpleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHT_caSoJEVBMzG6GN4WYrxAJz11qMfKL6jeVvZnsPJsDBwEEa3gT5oG6Nw_aem_L_37TeGkYOQZhOwwr1nAIA

* High level overview of Cariboo RD 2025 Budget & 2025-2029 Five Year Financial Plan — 

https://pub-crd.escribemeetings.com/filestream.ashx?DocumentId=50551&fbclid=IwY2xjawGTks9leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHZJ3dNuUEuiN7UcQ7hcmM5cYSBpI6DQd7V0zXXdsuz51lTfqdh52x_yOMQ_aem_0em-a9j01cRJMB_PB3lHhQ

* available 2025 business plans for the Cariboo Regional District can be reviewed at 

https://pub-crd.escribemeetings.com/Meeting.aspx?Id=7314b087-2c14-461b-bb5c-acb6dfd3f96c&Agenda=Agenda&lang=English&Item=108&Tab=attachments&fbclid=IwY2xjawGTkvFleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHW_nZgsFsYL2cENG-1UKAbbVnD3VL5GTK-6m_bFV-VnL6_4Daa9Ru94EAg_aem_J1hEmXsBPLVENuDeQKhiDA

* Budget process — First review of 2025 budget to take place at Regional District’s Finance Committee in November 2024 with additional budget review sessions in January 2025 and February 2025 with public consultation expected in the month of February 2025 and finally budget adoption in mid to late March 2025 

* questions, comments, concerns in relation to Regional District local taxation for those residing in Area “D” of the Cariboo Regional District can be emailed to myself at sforseth@cariboord.ca or by phone at 250-267-6725.

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings: Week of November 4-8, 2024

During the week of November 4-8, 2024 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments will be holding meetings, as follows:

Wells - Meetings as follows in Wells Council Chambers/Zoom (4243 Sanders Avenue):

i) In-Camera/Closed Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 5th from 12pm - 2:30pm under Sections 90(1a, l - appointment/strategic planning) of the Community Charter

ii) Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 5th from 3-5pm.  On the Agenda:

* Presentation: 2022 Audited Financial Statements

* Unfinished Business: Strategic Priority Projects

* Reports from Wells Mayor Ed Coleman and CAO

View the full Agenda here 

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 5th, 2024 at 6pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Streets for All Williams Lake - Sharing Information from June BC Active Transportation Summit

* OCP & Zoning Amendment Applications for property at 138 Lakeview Crescent

* Cariboo RD's Central Cariboo Search and Rescue Service Amendment - Council consent required

* Recommendations from previous Central Cariboo Joint Committee and Committee of Whole Council meetings for endorsement 

* Mayor Rathor's Direction to Council to reconsider Council Resolution No. 380/24 re Overdose Awareness Presentation and Safe Consumption Site

* Report from previous In-Camera Meeting re: Accessibility Advisory Committee Membership Changes

* Closed/In-Camera Council Meeting -- Section 90(1c - labour) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District -- Meetings, as noted below, to take place in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake)

1) Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Tuesday, November 5th, 2024 at 3:00pm.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Dawson Road Maintenance

* 2025 DRAFT Rural Caucus Meeting Schedule

View the full Agenda here

2) Finance/Budget Committee - Wednesday, November 6th, 2024 at 9:30am to consider the 2025 Budget/5 Year Financial Plan (1st Round).  Agenda can be viewed here 

3) Policy Committee - Wednesday, November 6th, 2024 at 3pm.  On the Agenda:

* Anti-Racial Discrimination and Anti-Racism Policy

* CAO Evaluation Policy Amendment Request

* Review Current Practice -- Land Acknowledgement for Regional District Board/Committee Meetings

* Draft – Privacy Management Program Policy

View the full Agenda here

4) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board - Thursday, November 7th, 2024 at 9:30am.  On the Agenda:

* Information Item: Access Change at Teck ED at Royal Inland Hospital

* Closed/In-Camera Board Session: Section 90(1e - land) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

5) Cariboo Regional District Board - Thursday, November 7th, 2024 upon recess/adjournment of the CCRHD Board.  On the Agenda:

* Annual Election of Board Chair/Vice-Chair for 2024-25 year

* 11am Delegation: MTS Maintenance Tracking Systems Inc. re: outline, develop and implement a formal Cross Connection Control Program (CCCP) for the Cariboo Regional District

* Land Use Matters (Area Directors' only) 

* NDIT Application – 2025 Business Façade Improvement Program

* Borrowing Resolution – Kersley VFD

* NCLGA Mental Health and Addictions Accord - Next Steps

* Recommendations from Committees' or Commissions

* Request from Area "B" Director B. Bachmeier re: $1,000 from Area "B" Director Initiative Fund for Christmas Appreciation Dinner

* Closed/In-Camera Board Meeting -- Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

Steve's Meeting/Expense Calendar - October 2024

During the month of October 2024 -- I attended the following meetings or events:

* October 3rd, 2024 -- Monthly Meeting of the McLeese Lake Recreation Commission

* October 15th, 2024 -- 2025 Wildwood Fire Department Budget Meeting

* October 16th, 2024 -- House call to individual in Cariboo RD Area "D" on Douglas Road

* October 17th, 2024 -- Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus Meeting 

* October 23rd, 2024 -- Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting

* October 28th, 2024 -- Coffee w/City of Williams Lake Councillor Joan Flaspohler

* October 31st, 2024 -- Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce AGM

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

During the month of October 2024 -- I submitted the following expenses:

* October 17th -- $83 for Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus Meeting 

* October 23rd -- $83 for Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting

~SF

Pile burning planned for Wildfire Risk Reduction project on Fox Mountain

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

BC Wildfire Service in collaboration with Borland Creek Logging Ltd will be conducting pile burning on Fox Mountain as part of a Wildfire Risk Reduction project.

 

Completion of this 23 hectare project will help reduce the wildfire hazard near Williams Lake and restore grown-in Interior Douglas-fir stands to a natural and more desirable state. The scope of this project includes the removal of surface and ladder fuels, as well as pruning and thinning the existing stand to create crown separation and reduce the risk of a high-intensity crown fire.

 

Pile Burning may happen as early as Nov 1, 2024, and continue periodically until March 20, 2025. Ignitions and burning will only proceed if weather and site conditions are suitable and allow smoke to dissipate.

 

Smoke and flames may be visible for motorists traveling on Highway 97 and from the south side of Williams Lake.

 

For more information regarding the Ventilation Index and Open Burning and Smoke Control Regulations, please visit: Ventilation Index - Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)

 

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions and air quality advisories, visit: Wildfire Service - Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)

 

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

 

You can follow the latest wildfire news:

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

 

Shelly Harnden, RFT – Contract Manager

Land and Resource Coordinator

Cariboo-Chilcotin Forest District

Phone: 250-706-6276

Email: Shelly.Harnden@gov.bc.ca