Monday, March 18, 2024

BC Wildfire Service's Spring 2024 Outlook

From the BC Wildfire Service:

As the snow melts, expect an active spring wildfire season ahead according to long-range forecasts. The widespread drought, persisting due to insufficient rain, heightens the risk of quick-fire starts and rapid growth.

With most human-caused wildfires in BC occurring during the spring, it's especially important to remain vigilant when open-burning during the shoulder seasons.

More at https://lnkd.in/gFV4-azy

Upcoming Prescribed Burn along Highway 20 Corridor

From the BC Wildfire Service:

The BC Wildfire Service in partnership with the Tsilhqot’in Nation communities, Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, BC Parks, Cariboo Chilcotin Resource District and BC Hydro will be conducting a series of prescribed burns approximately 40 hectares in size along Highway 20.

The goal of this prescribed burn is to reduce wildfire hazard to protect infrastructure and prevent uncontrolled fires along the Highway 20 corridor. Crews will be targeting high risk areas between Lee's Corner lookout and Chilanko Forks.

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

Burning may begin as early as March 20, 2024, and will continue periodically until May 31, 2024.

The exact timing of the burn will be dependent on weather, site and venting conditions. Ignitions will proceed only if conditions are suitable and allow for quick smoke dissipation.

Smoke and flames from this prescribed burn may be visible from Tsi Del Del, Yunesit’in, T’letinqox, Alexis Creek, Highway 20, and surrounding areas. Firefighters will closely monitor this fire at all times.

Learn More:

A factsheet about prescribed burns and ecosystem restoration burns is available online: https://news.gov.bc.ca/factsheets/prescribed-burns-reduce-wildfire-risks and Cultural and prescribed fire - 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:

 

 

Contact:

 BC Wildfire Service

Fire Information Officer

Cariboo Fire Centre

778 799-2100

Friday, March 15, 2024

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

The following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments' will be holding meetings during the week of March 18-22, 2024 as follows:

Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 19th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue) or via Zoom.  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Quesnel - Regular Council on Tuesday, March 19th at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Committee Reports
* City of Quesnel Hotel Tax Revitalization Bylaw 1959, 2024 (Council direction requested)

* City of Quesnel Housing Revitalization Tax Exemption Bylaw 1953, 2024 - Rescind Second Reading, Give Second and Third Readings, as amended

* UBCM Community Emergency Preparedness Fund: Disaster Risk Reduction
* Proposed Zoning amendments on small scale multi-unit housing

* Correspondence -- Quesnel Downtown Association - Request for letter of support for application to WorkBC Community & Employer Partnership Program and  BC Association of Farmers' Markets Nutrition Coupon Program - Request for a letter of support

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District -- all meetings noted below to occur in the Cariboo Regional District's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake):

1) Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting on Thursday, March 21st at 9:30am.  On the Agenda:

* 11:00 a.m. Delegation - Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and BC Cattlemen's Association re: Livestock at Large and Fencing in Rural Areas

* Bylaw Enforcement Activity in Electoral Areas
* Dangerous Dog Bylaw - Electoral Area "D"
* Expansion of BCEHS First Responder Program
* Cariboo RD Engagement Strategy

View the full Agenda here

2) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District (CCRHD) - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, March 22nd at 9:30am.  On the Agenda:

* 11:00 Delegation - City of Williams Lake re: Beth Veenkamp, Manager of Economic Development at the City of Williams Lake and Sarah McCarthy, Vice President - Strategic Initiatives at the Rick Hansen Foundation, will be requesting that an accessibility assessment of the Cariboo Memorial Hospital plans be conducted prior to construction

View the full Agenda here

3) Cariboo Regional District - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, March 22nd, following 9:45am recess of the CCRHD Board Meeting.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation at 11:30am -- Matt Henderson, UNBC Undergraduate Student will present results from his academic research from the summer of 2023 regarding what is needed to improve our province's current agricultural policies.

* UBCM Disaster Risk Reduction - Climate Adaptation Program 2024 Application
* Forest Grove/Canim Lake Water System Extensions
* Year-Round Grant for Assistance Application – 100 Mile House & District Figure Skating Club
* Recommendations from CRD Committees' or Commissions'

* For 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings only -- 100 Mile House Fire Protection Service Boundary Expansion Bylaw No. 5466, 2024 and  Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area J Community Hall Support Service Establishment Bylaw No. 5470, 2024

* Directors' Requests --  Request from Director Wagner to Access Electoral Area H Director Initiative Funds (to access up to $500.00 from Director Initiative funds to host a meet and greet plus info session on an upcoming referendum for a new FGVFD tender on July 12th. This will cover hall rental, plus incidentals) & Request from Director Bachmeier to Access Electoral Area B Director Initiative Funds (That up to $1,200 be authorized from the Area “B” Director Initiative Fund to permit Director Bachmeier to host a community engagement meeting and provide necessary notices of this meeting regarding a proposed sewer system feasibility study for the community of Bouchie Lake)

* Select 2024-25 NCLGA Rep for Cariboo Regional District 

View the full Board Agenda here






Thursday, March 14, 2024

Category 2 & 3 Fire Prohibition planned throughout the Cariboo Fire Centre

Courtesy of the Cariboo Fire Centre/BC Wildfire Service:

Effective at 12:00 (noon) Pacific Daylight Time on Thursday, March 28, 2024, Category 2 and 3 open fires will be prohibited across the entire Cariboo Fire Centre region. This prohibition includes the Cariboo Chilcotin Forest District, the 100 Mile House Forest District, the Quesnel Forest District.
 
Multiple factors are taken into consideration when assessing wildfire hazards and deciding whether to implement Open Fire Prohibitions, including drought conditions, current and forecasted weather, and the availability of firefighting resources. The Cariboo region has experienced an unseasonably dry fall and winter resulting in high drought conditions. We urge members of the public and industry to be extra vigilant when monitoring and in ensuring extinguishment of open burns.
 
Anyone conducting a Category 2 or 3 open fire anywhere in Cariboo Region must extinguish any such fire by 12:00 (noon) March 28, 2024. This prohibition will remain in place until 12:00 (noon) November 1, 2024, or until the Order is rescinded.
 
Please view a map of the affected areas online

The following activities and use of the following equipment, materials and substances will be prohibited:

Fireworks
Sky Lanterns
 
This prohibition does not ban campfires that are half-metre high by a half-metre wide or smaller, and does not apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes.
 
The Category 2 and 3 open fire prohibition applies to all BC Parks, Crown lands and private lands, but does not apply within the boundaries of a local government that has forest fire prevention bylaws in place and is serviced by a fire department. Check with local government authorities for any other restrictions before lighting any fire.
 
A Category 2 fire is an open fire that burns material in one to two piles, each no larger than two metres in height and three metres in width, or burning grass over an area less than 0.2 hectares.
 
A Category 3 fire is defined as an open fire larger than two metres by three metres, burning three or more piles smaller than two by three metres, or burning an area of grass or stubble over an area greater than 0.2 hectares.
 
Anyone found in contravention of an open burning prohibition may be issued a ticket for $1,150, required to pay an administrative penalty of up to $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs, as well as the value of resources damaged or destroyed by the wildfire.
 
The Cariboo Fire Centre would like to thank the public for its continuing help in preventing wildfires. To report a wildfire, or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone. For up-to-date information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, call 1 888 3-FOREST or visit: www.bcwildfire.ca
 
The Cariboo Fire Centre stretches from Loon Lake near Clinton in the south to the Cottonwood River near Quesnel in the north, and from Tweedsmuir Provincial Park in the west to Wells Gray Provincial Park in the east.
 
You can follow the latest wildfire news:
 
on the free BC Wildfire Service public mobile app, available for Apple (iOS) and Android devices
 
 
Contact:

BC Wildfire Service
Fire Information Officer
Cariboo Fire Centre
778 799-2100

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Prescribed burns planned within City of Williams Lake

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

The BC Wildfire Service, in collaboration with the City of Williams Lake and Williams Lake First Nation, plan to conduct two prescribed burns within the city of Williams Lake in efforts to reduce wildfire risk in the area.

These prescribed burns will cover a combined 10 hectares in the Stampede Park Grounds, Hillside Park located behind Lake City Secondary and the Gibbon Street park located near the water reservoir on Western avenue. Burning may begin as early as March 18, 2024 and continue periodically until March 21, 2024. Ignitions will proceed only if conditions are suitable and allow for quick smoke dissipation.

A low intensity surface fire will be lit within pre-established boundaries to burn combustible materials and mimic a naturally occurring ground fire to reduce the risk of a wildfire spreading within city limits. BC Wildfire Service staff will be working with members of the Williams Lake Fire Department to prepare, control, and monitor the fires at all times. Smoke and flames will be visible in the city of Williams Lake and surrounding area.

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

These prescribed burns will also allow the Williams Lake Fire Department and BC Wildfire Service to work together outside of emergency response activities, which is important for strengthening inter-agency coordination. This is a continuation of a relationship with Williams Lake First Nation to grow capacity and knowledge for cultural and prescribed burning.

Learn More:

A factsheet about prescribed burns and ecosystem restoration burns is available online: https://news.gov.bc.ca/factsheets/prescribed-burns-reduce-wildfire-risks.

You can follow the latest wildfire news:

 

Contact:

 

BC Wildfire Service

Fire Information Officer

Cariboo Fire Centre

778 799-2100

Tŝilhqot’in Leadership Meet with Regional Partners to Discuss Health Care Crisis

Courtesy of the Tsilhqot'in National Government:

The Tŝilhqot’in National Government (TNG) held a meeting on March 7, 2024 to call for action on the health care crisis impacting Indigenous communities in the region, driven by racism in the Williams Lake area healthcare system and the dire shortage of Doctors. Those in attendance included representatives from Interior Health, Cariboo Regional District, and City of Williams Lake as well as representatives from the Tŝilhqot’in communities. As a witness to the discussion, members from the First Nations Health Authority were also in attendance.

Racism continues to be a problem within the healthcare system, negatively impacting access to care. The calls to action from the In Plain Sight report from 2020 remain unaddressed

Although five new nurses are planned to come to the Cariboo Memorial Hospital next month, there still remains a Doctor shortage in the area. 

During the meeting, Interior Health outlined a 3-step plan for educating medical staff on racism and cultural awareness, which includes an online learning platform and an official blanket and prayer ceremony in April. The remaining partners agreed that working closely with the Tŝilhqot’in Nation to address issues in the health care system must be made a priority as they move forward.

TNG looks forward to continue working together to find solutions to the health care crisis in the area.

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

“Racism at the hospital (in Williams Lake) is still happening – this meeting was an opportunity to address these issues. We need to have consistent communication with the Interior Health Board to make sure that voices are heard and issues are dealt with appropriately.  We also wanted to have this meeting with Interior Health to voice concerns over the lack of qualified Doctors in Williams Lake. We are concerned about the reason for Doctors leaving. This issue effects everyone in Williams Lake and the surrounding area. We ask the government and those on the board – to work together to find innovative ways to attract culturally sensitive Doctors and retain them.”

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

WL Council Highlights - March 12th mtg

Present:

Mayor SPS Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Delainey, Flaspohler, Lyons, Moses and Nelson

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

Mayor Rathor recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw.  In addition, Mayor Rathor graciously welcomed both Xat'sull FN Kukpi7 (Chief) Rhonda Phillips and Cariboo RD Area "D" Director Steve Forseth to the meeting this evening 

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous Williams Lake City Council meeting held on February 27th, 2024 was received/adopted

Delegation:

1) BC Housing appeared before Council to discuss a proposed Emergency Shelter at the former Elks Hall on 1st Avenue - BC Housing presentation/City Staff report here

Following their presentation -- A Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor thanked BC Housing for their time/information

Resolved -- That Council permit the public gallery to address Council in relation to the delegation from BC Housing

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillors Delainey, Flaspohler and Moses 

Comments from the Public Gallery:

12 people addressed Council  

Response to Delegations:

Council had before it a report from the Manager of Economic Development regarding a BC Housing Proposed Emergency Shelter on 1st Avenue (former Elks Hall)

Discussion ensued thereon...

Resolved -- Council considered the request from BC Housing to support their application to the Province for Statutory Immunity for the property at 98 First Ave South, for the purposes of establishing an emergency shelter and directed that the matter be postponed (deferred) until the March 26th Council meeting for further consideration and allow members of the public to further provide feedback/suggestions to Council in respect of the BC Housing presentation

Meeting recessed at 8:16pm
Meeting resumed at 8:26pm

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated February 29, March 3 and 7, 2024

2) Council gave 1st/2nd Readings to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2407, 2024 for property at 98 3rd Avenue South in order to faciliate a rezone from Town Centre Commercial (C-1) to Park, Recreation and Open Space (P-2) and that a Public Hearing be scheduled for April 9th in Williams Lake Council Chambers

3) Council directed that Parcel Tax Roll Reviews take place, as follows:

* Water and Sewer - April 26 @ 9:00 am in Williams Lake Council Chambers

* Downtown Parking and Business Improvement Area - April 26 @ 9:30 am in Williams Lake Council Chambers

4) Council endorsed two recommendations from the March 5th Committee of Whole Council meeting, as follows:

i) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #12-2024, the presentation from Andrew Sandberg, Rotary Club of the Williams Lake Daybreak regarding a letter of support for a shade sail to be installed in Kiwanis Park be received and Council endorse the project in principle as well as provide in-kind contributions from the City toward this project and use of available equipment if applicable.

ii) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #13-2024 and the report of the Manager of Public Works dated February 7, 2024, Council confirm universal residential water metering is not a near-term priority and that staff's decision to amend residential water meter installations be supported.

5) Council received letters from Stuart Westie dated March 1, 2024 and from Guy Ridler dated March 5, 2024 in support of the City of Williams Lake's call for safety improvements to the Highway 20 corridor through Williams Lake

6) Council received a letter from the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) dated February 29, 2024 regarding the Province's response to City of Williams Lake Resolution EB8 "Ministry of Health Communication" and EB10 "BC Housing Delays" 

7) Council proclaimed the following:

lights of Williams Lake City Hall be changed to purple and blue on October 17, 2024 for "Light It Up! For NDEAM"

* the month of May 2024 was proclaimed "Hospice Palliative Care Awareness Month" in the City of Williams Lake and approval be given for the 8th Annual Hike for Hospice fundraising event being held Sunday, May 5, 2024 at Scout Island

April 28, 2024 was proclaimed as a "Day of Mourning" in the City of Williams Lake in remembrance of those killed or injured in the workplace

8) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of March 12th, 2024

Members of Council reported on their recent activities

Council adjourned at 8:50pm

Saturday, March 9, 2024

What to expect from upcoming Cariboo RD Emergency Notification System Test

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

The Cariboo Regional District is gearing up to test its new platform for the Cariboo Chilcotin Emergency Notification System. This test, which is a crucial component of pre-wildfire season preparedness, will help ensure that residents are able to receive notifications during an emergency.

On Tuesday, March 12, anyone who is signed up to receive notifications for unincorporated (rural) areas in the CRD will begin receiving notifications starting at 10:00 a.m (Electoral Areas). The exact time of delivery will change depending on how the region’s telecommunications network manages an estimated 29,520 notifications for the rural areas. Notifications for locations inside municipal boundaries will then start at 11:30 a.m. with Quesnel, then Williams Lake (1:00 p.m.), Wells (2:30 p.m.) and 100 Mile House (3:00 p.m.).

Some subscribers may receive multiple notifications throughout the day, which will confirm that they are registered to receive alerts for both municipal and rural locations. Notifications will also be sent to all contact methods registered with the system, which ensures that the Cariboo Chilcotin Emergency Notification System can notify you during a real emergency.

Residents are encouraged to sign up for the system or log in and manage their personal information before the test. You can do so through the Voyent Alert app, available through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or online through our website at www.cariboord.ca/EmergencyNotification.

Anyone requiring assistance with registration or with questions about how the system works can contact Emergency Programs staff at 1-800-665-1636.

The Cariboo Chilcotin Emergency Notification System, in operation since 2015, is funded in partnership with the City of Quesnel, District of Wells, City of Williams Lake, and District of 100 Mile House.

Friday, March 8, 2024

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of March 11-15, 2024

The following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments' or Boards' of Education will be holding meetings during the week of March 11-15, 2024 as follows:

School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Board of Education Meeting on Wednesday, March 13th at 7pm in the SD28 Boardroom (401 North Star Road).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 12th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: BC Housing re: Emergency Shelter to be re-located from Hamilton Hotel to former Elks Hall on 1st Avenue

* Zoning Bylaw Amendment - BENCH Site Design Inc. - 98 Third Avenue South

* Parcel Tax Roll Review - 2024 Financial Year
* 2 Recommendations from previous Committee of Whole Council meeting for endorsement 

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District:

1) South Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Monday, March 11th at 1:30pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue).  On the Agenda:

* Action Item: South Cariboo Recreation Management Agreement (2024-2029) Between the District of 100 Mile House and the Cariboo Regional District

View the full Agenda here

2) North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, March 12th at 3:30pm in the Cariboo Regional District Quesnel sub-office (102-410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Quesnel Seniors' Council

* Follow-up actions to presentation from North Cariboo Agricultural Marketing Association - FARMED at a previous North Cariboo Caucus meeting...

View the full Agenda here 

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

* Delegation: Quesnel & District Community Arts Council - Dina Unrau, Executive Director regarding North Cariboo Arts/Culture Sector Impact... 

* Emergency Expenditure - Soccer Complex Sprinkler System
* Alex Fraser Park Management Agreement
* West Fraser Centre Concession Fire Update
* Junior Hockey Agreement
* North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Agreement
* AMENDED North Cariboo Joint Advisory Committee Meeting Schedule for 2024
* North Cariboo Joint Committee Terms of Reference review - Closed/In-Camera meeting attendance and use of on-line technology (Zoom/MS Teams)

View the full Agenda here

Finally - the City of Williams Lake is celebrating its' 95th Birthday on Friday, March 15th from 12pm - 2pm at the Tourism Discovery Centre on South Broadway Avenue.  See you there!

 

Quesnel Council Highlights - March 5th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Presentation - RCMP Auxiliary

The RCMP Auxiliary program was discontinued in 2023. S/Sgt. Richard Weseen and Cpl. Steve Pelletier made a presentation to former Auxiliary members who helped to protect the community and front line RCMP members with their dedicated long service:

  • Frank Gonzalez, served for 29 years 
  • Michael Perkins served for 17 years 
  • Mark Heinzelman was unable to attend but S/Sgt. Weseen acknowledged his 34 years of service.

Delegation - BC Transit

BC Transit provided Council an overview of BC Transit system updates:

  • The new electronic fare collection system (UMO), which will introduce new and more convenient ways for passengers to pay for fares;
  • Fare policy changes: Universal refund and expiration policy, Cash Balance policy and 30-day pass policy;
  • Next Ride allows customers to see real-time bus location and anticipated arrival times; and
  • 2025 fare review.

Repatriation of Local Artist's Sculpture

Council approved allocation of up to $5000.00 from the Council Initiatives for Mayor Paull's travel to Camosun College in Victoria to transport Bert DeVink’s moose sculpture to Quesnel.

Volunteer Recognition

Council approved allocating up to $7,500 from Council Initiatives to install a Volunteer sign on Quesnel Firehall No.1.

BC Transit Changes

Following the BC Transit delegation, Council approved a change in the structure of the Transit Monthly Pass as part of the implementation of the Umo Electronic Fare Collection System in which the pass is converted from a fixed-date pass to a rolling 30-day pass

2024 Operating Budget

Following public engagement and several budget reviews by the Financial Sustainability & Audit Committee and Council, Council approved the 2024 Operating Budget, and staff will continue building the Five Year Financial Plan based on this budget.

Bylaws

  • Bylaw 1955 - City of Quesnel West Quesnel Business Improvement Area Bylaw 1955, 2024 - Petition results and third reading
  • Bylaw 1954 - City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1954, 2024 (118 Juniper Road) - Final adoption.
  • Bylaw 1956 - City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1956, 2024 (530 Carson Avenue) - Final adoption.

Thursday, March 7, 2024

Pile burning planned for Chimney Valley area

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

The BC Wildfire Service and the Cariboo-Chilcotin Natural Resource District will be conducting pile burning south of Highway 20, off of Chimney Valley Road and Dog Creek Road.

The objective of this project is to reduce wildfire hazard by burning combustible materials from a previously completed fuel treatment.

Burning is expected to begin March 8, 2024 and continue periodically until March 31, 2024. Ignitions and burning will only proceed if weather and site conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dissipation.

BC Wildfire Service personnel will carefully prepare, control and monitor these fires at all times. Smoke and/or flames may be visible from Williams Lake and to motorists traveling along Highway 20, Dog Creek Road and Chimney Valley Road.

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:

 


Contact:

 

BC Wildfire Service

Fire Information Officer

Cariboo Fire Centre

778 799-2100

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Updates made to Securing Small Business Rebate Program

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

The Province is making changes to offer a smoother and faster application process to help businesses access funding to offset the costs to repair and prevent vandalism to businesses, in consultation with the BC Chamber of Commerce.

“When I became aware of the challenges some businesses were having in applying for the program, I immediately connected with the BC Chamber of Commerce and small business owners to hear their concerns,” said the Hon. Brenda Bailey, BC's Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. 

“Our goal is to get the money out the door and in the pockets of our hard-working small business owners, so we are taking action on the issues being raised and taking steps to make changes to the application process.”

After working with the business community and the BC Chamber of Commerce, the Province is making changes to the Securing Small Business Rebate Program, which will come into effect in the coming weeks.

Updates to the application process will include:

* Removing the requirement to provide an insurance claim when applying for funding through the reparative stream of the program. Applicants will now simply be required to provide the name of their insurance carrier and policy number.

* Permitting self-installation of measures. If equipment is self-installed, the rebate will be for eligible equipment only.

* Removing the requirement for the applicant to demonstrate there is vandalism in the community in order to be eligible for the preventative rebate.

* Removing the application deadline of Feb. 29, 2024, for preventative and reparative applications being filed for 2023. Applications will be accepted until the program ends in 2025.

The BC Chamber of Commerce is expediting the changes to the application portal now to ensure the $10.5 million to support small businesses can be used to offset the costs some businesses are facing due to vandalism.

Friday, March 1, 2024

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings|Week of March 4-8, 2024

During the week of March 4-8, 2024 -- the following local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be holding meetings:

Wells -- Regular Council Meeting to be held on Tuesday, March 5th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue) and via Zoom.  When available,  the Agenda can be viewed here

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

* Presentation: RCMP Service Awards

* Delegation: BC Transit 

* Reports from Committees' 

* Report from Mayor Paull re: Repatriation of Local Artist's Sculpture 

* BC Transit Electronic Fare Collection System
* West Quesnel Active Transportation Design
* 2222 Maple Drive Remedial Action Order Update
* Bylaw 1955 - City of Quesnel West Quesnel Business Association Bylaw 1955, 2024 - Petition results and third reading

* 2024 Operating Budget 

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake -- 

1) Special Closed (In-Camera) Closed Council Meeting -- 5:30pm on Tuesday, March 5th in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St).  Meeting is closed to the public as per Section 90(1j - information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter.  View the full closed meeting notice here

2) Committee of the Whole Session -- 6pm, Tuesday, March 5th, 2024 in the in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

Delegation #1 -- Presentation from Patti Gerhardi, Destination and Experience Manager and Judith Call, Destination Experience for the Chilcotin and Outer Coast and Accessibility Manager on behalf of the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association (CCCTA)

 Delegation #2 -- Andrew Sandberg, Rotary Club of the Williams Lake Daybreak re Endorsement of Shade Sail at Kiwanis Park

Report of the Manager of Public Works re: Residential Water Meters (re-assignment of priority)

View the full Agenda here


Cariboo RD Board Highlights - March 1st mtg

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

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw and welcomed both Gordon Keener, Treaty Manager for Xat'sull FN as well as newly appointed Area "A" Alternate Director Charlotte Kurta to today's meeting

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

The Board received a number of "Information-Only" items

Business:

Development Services:

1) Following Public Hearings -- the Board granted 3rd Reading to the following Land Use Bylaws:

*  Quesnel Fringe Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5446, 2023 (Area A/Hazard Road)
*  Quesnel Fringe Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5446, 2023 (Area A/Jasper Street)

2) The Board adopted South Cariboo Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5442, 2023 and South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5443, 2023 (Area G/adjacent to 4833 Telqua Dr)

3) The Board authorized the following in relation to Agriculture Land Commission applications:

*  Provincial Agricultural Land Commission application for non-farm use, pertaining to Block A (Plan B5167), District Lot 3139, Cariboo District be authorized for submission to the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission, with a recommendation for approval, subject to rezoning (Area A/1387 Maple Drive)

* That the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission application for non-farm use, pertaining to Block A of District Lot 2828, Lillooet District and Part of District Lot 2828 between Block A and D, Lillooet District be authorized for submission to the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission, with a recommendation for approval (Area G/4202 Cariboo Hwy 97 South) 

4) The Board directed staff to undertake public notice and facilitate a public information meeting, at the applicant’s expense, with respect to the Board’s consideration of amendment of covenant KM021341 on title of Lot 1, District Lot 2866, Lillooet District, Plan 30570 for property at 4072 Lac La Hache Station Road in Area "G"

5) The Board agreed to provide a "Concurrence Resolution" for a new TELUS Cell Tower near Hourglass Lake in Area "J", as follows:

That the Cariboo Regional District Board of Directors' concur with the TELUS proposal to construct a telecommunications tower BC105335, located on That Parcel or Tract of Land in the Vicinity of Hourglass Lake, Range 3, Coast District, Containing 4.002 Hectares, More or Less (Crown file 5408145). Further, that staff be instructed to advise TELUS that:

The Cariboo Regional District is satisfied with TELUS’s consultation process, as outlined in ISED’s Default Public Consultation Process:

* That the proposed tower is a permitted use;
* The proposed design and location is acceptable;
* That the Cariboo Regional District has been consulted and concurs with the tower location.

6) The Board authorized Staff to submit an application for project costs up to $150,000 to the 2024 UBCM Local Government Development Approvals Program in support of the consolidation review of Regional District zoning and rural land use bylaws and that they be authorized to undertake all required grant management activities, as necessary.

Communications:

1) The Board endorsed 2024 NCLGA Resolutions and to be considered at the 2024 NCLGA Convention in Smithers, BC as follows:

* ALC Notice of Intent Requirements for Ancillary Residential Structures
* Joint NCLGA Resolution with City of Williams Lake supporting Legislative Changes to permit Alkaline Hydrolysis Process

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Directors Pare, Anderson and De Vries (Areas J,K,L) 

* Action to Address Challenges Facing B.C.’s Rural Seniors

Finance:

1) The Board dealt with Year Round Grants for Assistance, as follows:

* Quesnel Prospectors Car Club -- $1,000 funded by Areas A,B and I Grant for Assistance funds equally

* Williams Lake Cycling Club -- $1,000 funded by Areas D,E,F Grant for Assistance funds equally

Committee/Commission Recommendations:

1) The Board endorsed recommendations from previously-held Regional District Committees' or Commissions meetings', as follows:

* That the operating and occupancy agreements with the 100 Mile House Curling Club be renewed for a five-year term with the current conditions, including an annual fee of $12,000 payable by the club and that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreements.

* That a media release be issued regarding development of an agreement between the District of 100 Mile House and the Cariboo Regional District for management of the South Cariboo Recreation Centre to begin in April 2024

* That Northern Directors' be appointed to Committees, as follows:

- South-Central Regional Advisory Committee to UNBC/CNC - Director Sjostrom

- North Cariboo Air Quality Roundtable - Director Massier

- North Cariboo Seniors Council - Director Sjostrom

- Quesnel Housing Solutions Table - Director Bachmeier

- City of Quesnel Accessibility Committee - Director Sjostrom

* That Director Wagner be appointed to the South Cariboo Chamber of Commerce and Director Richmond be appointed to the South Cariboo Community Enhancement Foundation for 2024

Corporate Bylaws:

1) The Board adopted Barlow Creek Fire Protection Service Area Amendment Bylaw No. 5462, 2024

Board Directors' Requests:

1) At the request of Director Bachmeier (Area "B") -- the Board agreed to provide a letter of support to the Echen Healing Society for their funding application to the TELUS Indigenous Communities Fund

2) At the request of Director Forseth (Area "D") -- the Board agreed to the following:

That a letter be forwarded to the Hon. Ravi Kahlon, BC Minister of Housing, requesting that discussions occur between the Cariboo Regional District and Ministry of Housing staff regarding Cariboo Regional District participation in the Province’s “Secondary Suite Incentive Program” those Electoral Areas that are in the Cariboo Regional District’s Building Inspection service 

3) At the request of Directors Bachmeier and Forseth (Areas "B" + "D") -- the Board authorized access up to $2,000 from the Areas "B" and "D" Director Initiative Funds for permit Directors' Bachmeier and Forseth to attend the 2024 "Keeping It Rural" Conference being held in Kelowna BC from May 21-23, 2024

4) At the request of Director Richmond (Area "G") -- the Board authorized access to the Area "G" Director Initiative Fund up to $600 in order to facilitate an appreciation dinner for the 108 Greenbelt Commission

Delegation - 11:30am

Patti Gerhardi, Destination & Experience Manager and Judith Call, Destination Experience for the Chilcotin and Outer Coast and Accessibility Manager from the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association appeared before the Board to present information regarding the Association's services

Following CCCTA's presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair thanked the delegation for their time/information

Directors' reported on their recent activities and then the Board adjourned 

Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board Highlights - March 1st mtg

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

Meeting called to order at 9:30am

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 CCRHD Board Meeting were received/adopted

Business:

1) The Board provided 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption to Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (Northern Health – Building Integrity) Bylaw No. 222, 2024

2) The Board received "Information Only" items as follows:

* Northern Health Community News - February 2024
* Interior Health - Passing of Dr. Doug Cochrane

The Chair reported on his recent activities on behalf of the CCRHD Board 

The Board adjourned at 9:42am

Steve's Meeting/Expense Calendar - February 2024

In the month of February 2024 -- I attended the following meetings/events:

* Feb 7th - Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus and then attend the monthly meeting of the McLeese Lake Recreation Commission and provide a monthly report as to my activities as the Cariboo RD Area "D" Director.. 

* Feb 8th - Committee of the Whole (Cariboo RD) meeting

* Feb 9th - CCRHD (Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District) and Cariboo RD Board Meetings

* Feb 18th -- Family Day event at McLeese Lake Community Hall

* Feb 20th -- Williams Lake and Area Community Wildfire Roundtable at Cariboo Fire Centre

* Feb 22th -- Central Cariboo Search and Rescue Stakeholders (CRD Areas D,E,F,G + City of Williams Lake) Meeting re: upcoming bylaw amendments to Central Cariboo Search and Rescue Service Establishment Bylaw

* Feb 28th -- Central Cariboo Joint Committee

* Feb 29th -- Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus and Finance/Budget Committee 

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

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In the month of February 2023 -- I submitted the following expenses:

*  Feb 7th - Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus Meeting ($83)

* Feb 8th - Committee of the Whole (Cariboo RD) meeting ($206)

* Feb 9th - CCRHD (Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District) and Cariboo RD Board Meetings ($206)

* Feb 28th -- Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting ($83)

* Feb 29th -- Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus and Finance/Budget Committee meetings ($289)

Thursday, February 29, 2024

Cariboo RD Finance/Budget Committee Highlights - Feb 29th mtg

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

Meeting commenced at 12:30pm

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

Meeting Agenda adopted 
Minutes of the Committee meeting held January 11th, 2024 were received/adopted

Business:

1)  Cariboo Regional District 2024 Five Year Financial Plan - Final Review

A report of the CFO was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved -- That the Cariboo Regional District 2024 – 2028 Five Year Financial Plan be submitted to the Cariboo Regional District Board at its March 22, 2024 meeting for three readings and adoption.

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

2) Director Input Into Fire Apparatus Configurations Prior To Purchase Confirmation

A information-only report from the CFO was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon...

No further action required

3) Consultation Report for 2024 - 2028 Financial Plan Engagement

A information-only report from the Manager of Communications was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon... 

No further action taken... 

The Committee adjourned at 1:53pm

Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus Highlights - Feb 29th mtg

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

Meeting called to order at 10:45am

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 Caucus meeting held on Feb 7th, 2024 was adopted

Business:

1) Letter from John Pickford re: Williams Lake Airshed

Letter presented to Caucus
Director Forseth provided a verbal report as to the history of the Williams Lake Airshed

Discussion ensued thereon... 

No further action taken

2) Appointment to Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society

Report from the Deputy Corporate Officer presented to Caucus
Discussion ensued thereon...

Resolved -- That it be recommended to the Regional Board:

That the appointment of Director Neufeld as the Cariboo Regional District’s representative to the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society be rescinded. Further that Director LeBourdais be appointed as the (Cariboo RD Central Cariboo Director Liaison) representative to the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society for the remainder of 2024.

3) Central Cariboo Victim Services Renewal Agreement (2023-2025) with the City of Williams Lake

Report of the Manager of Community Services was presented to Caucus
Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved -- That it be recommended to the Regional Board:

That the Victim Services Contribution Agreement between the Cariboo Regional District and the City of Williams Lake be renewed for a three-year term with an annual payment of $24,500 in 2023 and $26,000 in 2024 and 2025 and further that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreement.

4) Action Page

No further action taken

Caucus adjourned at 11:04am

Quesnel Council Highlights - Feb 20th and 27th mtgs

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Feb 20th Meeting of Quesnel Council:

5:30 p.m. Public Hearing - Proposed bylaws 1956, 1957 and 1958

1957 and 1958

Proposed amendments to the Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaws regarding commercial zoning in West Quesnel at 668 Doherty Drive, to allow conversion of a commercial building into a 17-unit residential apartment.

1956

Proposed amendment to the Zoning Bylaw to allow the use of supportive housing to be located at 530 Carson Avenue (commonly known as Grace Inn).

Regular Council Meeting

Presentation:

Quesnel Ambassador Leadership Program - 2024 New Candidate Presentation

Mayor Paull introduced the 2023 Ambassadors and the 2024 Candidates & Sponsors, while Councillor McKelvie led the pinning ceremony.

Coordinator: Rose Scott

2023 Ambassadors:

  • Jamie-Lynn Fedoruk
  • Avery Cassidy
  • 2024 Candidates and Sponsors
  • Aryanna Langan - Six Diamond Real Estate Inc.
  • Taylor Wilwand - Reid Street Pharmacy
  • Jayla Wheeler - Mama C’s Gifts & Giggles
  • Jane Cronkhite - South Quesnel Business Association (unavailable)
  • Lacey Anderson - Bouchie Lake Country Store
  • Aubrey Williams - Bliss!
  • Aiyana Doern - William Lacy Real Estate (unavailable)

Development Services:

Development Permit 2023-64 - 118 Juniper Road (application for an 18+ vapour retail store addition).  APPROVED, subject to obtaining a sign permit.

Development Permit 2024-68 - Lot 2 Nickel Ridge Avenue (application for a single-storey dwelling). APPROVED, subject to geotechnical report requirements and updated covenant.

Development Permit 2023-63 - 668 Doherty Drive (form & character and parking variance application for conversion of a commercial building to a residential apartment). NOT APPROVED.

*Three written submissions were received for the Public Hearing of Bylaws 1957 and 1958 opposing the development for parking concerns. Council did not approve this DP and directed Staff to bring a comprehensive parking report to a future meeting.

Bylaws

  • Bylaw 1954 - City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1954, 2024 (118 Juniper Road) - First three readings
  • Bylaw 1956 - City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1956, 2024 (530 Carson Avenue) - Third reading
  • Bylaw 1957 - City of Quesnel Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw 1957, 2024 (668 Doherty Drive) - Second reading
  • Bylaw 1958 - City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1958, 2024 (668 Doherty Drive) - Second reading

Feb 27th Meeting of Quesnel Council:

The City of Quesnel held a public engagement session on February 27th to present an overview of the budget process and the Preliminary Budget Estimates for 2024 and, to allow residents a further opportunity to participate and provide feedback on the 2024 Operating budget.

If you were unable to attend and would still like a chance to contribute, you can do so by emailing .

The 2024 Operating Budget will come forward on the March 5, 2024 Regular meeting of Council for final discussion and approval.

  • The draft operating budget has total taxation of $20,437,700. This is a 5.6% total tax levy increase over 2023.
  • At this point, the increase to the average residence for municipal taxes would be $64.73 or $18.25 per $100,000. The increase for commercial would be $86.40 per $100,000.
  • Residential Assessments were fairly flat in 2024, increasing only 2.6%. Revised Assessments will be received in mid March that will determine the final taxation rates that will be built into the tax rate bylaw.

More details and a copy of the budget presentation can be found at https://letsconnectquesnel.ca/budget-2024