Advanced Vote #1 | Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments/Boards of Education for 2026-2030 Term

October 7, 2026
9:20am

Today between 8am to 8pm -- voters in Wells, Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile House and the surrounding rural communities can cast an advanced vote to elect the following for a new 4 year term from 2026-2030:

Mayors in Wells, Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile House

Councillors in Wells, Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile House

7 Trustees in School District #28 (Quesnel)

Trustees in Trustee Electoral Areas 1,3,4,5 in School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin)

A Director for Electoral Areas B,C,E,G,H,K,L within the Cariboo Regional District

Links:

1) Wells -- https://www.wells.ca/application/files/1317/9002/4211/Voting_Information_notice_2026-09-21_1.pdf

2) Quesnel --

https://www.quesnel.ca/city-hall/elections/2026-local-government-elections

3) Williams Lake --

https://www.williamslake.ca/562/Election-2026

4) 100 Mile House --

https://www.100milehouse.com/city-hall/2026-elections

5) Cariboo RD (Areas B,C,E,G,H,K,L) --

https://www.cariboord.ca/regional-government/elections-and-voting/election-information/

6) School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) Trustees in Trustee Zones 1,3,4,5 --

https://www.sd27.bc.ca/documents/fe47fb84-ca55-4e54-b309-e493178586db/SD27-Notice-of-Election-by-Voting.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20260922194423

7) School District #28 (Quesnel) Elect 7 Trustees --

https://www.sd28.bc.ca/sites/default/files/documents/2026-09/Notice%20of%20Election%20by%20Voting%20Final%20for%20Posting.pdf

Williams Lake Council Highlights - October 6, 2026 mtg

Present in WL Council Chambers:

Mayor 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 

The Mayor welcomed Cariboo RD Area "D" Director Steve Forseth to tonight's Council meeting

Meeting Agenda adopted - click here

Meeting Video - click here

Minutes of the previous Council meeting were received/adopted

Delegation:

1) Angelika Sellick, Social Planning Council of Williams Lake & Area appeared before Council to provide a Thrive Poverty Reduction Strategy Update - presentation here

2)  Jane Wellburn and Ryan Best from the Williams Lake Skatepark Association appeared before Council to provide an update on the Williams Lake Skatepark Project - presentation here

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

Mayor Rathor thanked the delegations for their time/information

Response to Delegations:

1) Council received for information the presentation of Angelika Sellick, Social Planning Council of Williams Lake & Area regarding an update on the Thrive Poverty Reduction Strategy and successes in the work of poverty reduction in Williams Lake, the request of the Social Planning Council for a continued Council liaison was endorsed and their request for further financial support was referred to the 2027 budget process for consideration 

2) Council received for information the presentation of Jane Wellburn and Ryan Best, Williams Lake Skatepark Association, regarding an update on the Williams Lake Skatepark Project in Boitanio Park; agreed to endorse the project and City Staff were directed to continue working with the Association on the skatepark redevelopment project, including grant research and that the feasibility report be referred to the Central Cariboo Joint Committee when the Society presents to the Committee

Business:

1) Council received or received for information: 

* the accounts payable computer cheque and Electronic Funds Transfer listings dated September 24 and October 1, 2026

* Quarter 3 2026 Budget Status Report 

* Minutes of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting held September 23, 2026 

* Council Information Package, as of October 6, 2026

2) Following a Public Input Opportunity -- Council directed Staff to send a response to the LCRB (Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch) regarding the relocation of an existing cannabis retail licence application at #420-1185 Prosperity Way that states: 

(a) The City of Williams Lake has considered the location of the proposed store and the views of the residents; and 

(b) The City of Williams Lake recommends the application be issued, as minimal concerns have been identified by the various City departments on the general impact to the community, and the proposal aligns with Council Policy No. 213 and Zoning Bylaw No. 2430, 2025 [insert any additional Council reasons] and include a record of the community consultation with the response to the LCRB regarding the licence application

3) Council directed Staff to purchase bike racks for the remaining three locations using LGCAP money in accordance with the City of Williams Lake Purchasing Policy and work with the Cariboo Regional District to install bike racks outside the Gibraltar Room Entrance, as previously requested

4) Council approved free transit service (i.e. conventional and HandyDART) on general voting day for the Provincial Election, taking place on Saturday, October 24, 2026

5) Council approved meals, travel, compensation and other associated expenses for interested Council members to attend the 162nd Lhatŝ’aŝʔin Memorial Day in Quesnel, BC on October 26, 2026

6) Council approved 2 Recommendations from a previous Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting, as follows:

a) That pursuant to Central Cariboo Joint Committee Report #08-2026 and the agenda item summary of Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, Cariboo Regional District dated September 15, 2026, the Contract Services Agreement and the Arts Centre Management and Operations Agreement with the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society be renewed for five-year terms with annual payments of $81,000 and $35,000, respectively, plus applicable taxes; and further, that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreements. (Editor's note -- this recommendation was also endorsed by the Cariboo Regional Board as its' October 2, 2026 meeting)

b)  That pursuant to Central Cariboo Joint Committee Report #09-2026 and the report of the Director of Community Services dated September 8, 2026, the Minutes of the Indoor Sport Facility Working Group meetings held August 25, 2026 and September 8, 2026, together with the results of the Request for Proposals process for an Indoor Sport Feasibility Study, be received for information and Council endorse award of the Indoor Sport Facility Feasibility Study RFP to HCMA Architecture and Design for the bid price of $64,500, plus applicable taxes

7) Council authorized the following, in relation to the annual 2026 Remember Day events in Williams Lake: 

* approve the Poppy Campaign sale days from October 24 to November 11, 2026; 

* approve the barricading of the City Hall parking lot during the small Remembrance Day ceremony at the Cenotaph on November 11, 2026 at 11:00am, and Staff coordinate the placement of barricades as requested

* approve the use of the City Hall lobby for accumulation of wreaths and crosses before and after the Cenotaph ceremony

* authorize the Legion Flag to be displayed on the City's flag pole for the week of November 7 through 11, 2026

8) Council agreed to support the request of the Station House Studio & Gallery Society in their letter dated September 30, 2026 their application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust 'Community Places' Program for up to $30,000 toward their restoration, safety, accessibility and security upgrades project to the historic Station House building

9) Council approved an amendment to the Williams Lake & District Seniors Centre's 

2025 Better at Home Program fee for service agreement to permit use of remaining unused funds from their 2025/2026 seniors snow removal service, due both to the mild recent winters and challenges retaining snow removal contractors, toward their seniors lawn maintenance program

And then Council adjourned at 7:18pm

Williams Lake All Candidates Forum - Oct 5, 2026

Earlier this evening (October 5, 2026) in the Gibraltar Room at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex -- those running for Williams Lake Mayor or City Councillor attended the Meet and Greet put on the Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce in a full Gibraltar Room....

Those in attendance:

Mayoral candidates — Surinderpal Rathor, Walt Cobb (2/2)

Councillor candidates — Sheila Boehm, Scott Nelson, Nathan Wiebe, Greg Jeanotte, Micheal Moses, Jason Ryll, Rafiullah Sahibzada, Charlene Hays, Billie Sheridan, Paul French, Ruth Lloyd (via recorded video), Kayla Zurak (via recorded video) (12/14)

Others: Steve Forseth, Cariboo RD Area "D" Director (recently re-elected by acclamation); Mary Forbes, Cariboo RD Area "E" Director candidate/School District #27 Zone 5 Trustee candidate

After 2 mins introductory speeches of Williams Lake Mayoral and City Councillor candidates -- the candidates sat at individual tables to have one-on-one discussions with Williams Lake voters

I was pleasantly surprised by how often Williams Lake Mayoral candidate Surinderpal Rathor was interrupted by applause during his 2 mins introductory speech (3 or 4 times as I recall) and also was the recipient of an endorsement from Williams Lake First Nation for his re-election bid

A big thank you to the Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce Board/staff for putting on this event -- these all candidates forums (whether in Williams Lake, 100 Mile House or Quesnel) help voters in determining their local governments (Wells, Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile House, SD27, SD28, Cariboo RD Area Directors) for a new 4 year term...

As a side note -- I was surprised to run into one of my McLeese Lake residents' who had a local concern they wanted to address -- I have given them my business card and they will be emailing me the details so I can follow-up with Cariboo RD Staff in the next number of days....

~Steve

Cariboo-Chilcotin Region MLA candidates set

As of 1pm yesterday (October 3, 2026) -- Elections BC reports the following individuals have been accepted as MLA (Member of the (BC) Legislative Assembly) candidates in the 44th General Election of British Columbia: 

Cariboo-Chilcotin:

Kathryn Askew BC NDP

Lorne Doerkson Conservative Party (incumbent/Interim Leader of BC Conservatives)

Douglas Gook         BC Green Party

Prince George-North Cariboo:

Denice Bardua BC NDP

Sheldon Clare         Conservative Party (incumbent)

Randy Thompson BC Green Party

Upcoming Dates: 

Advance voting October 16-21, 2026

Last day to request a vote-by-mail package online or by phone October 18, 2026

Final Voting Day October 24, 2026

Final count November 6-10, 2026 (planned)

Return Day November 18, 2026

More information about the 44th General Election (and where to vote, when available) can be viewed here

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings | Week of October 5-9, 2026

During the week of October 5-9, 2026 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments' will be holding meetings, as follows: 

Wells -- Tuesday, October 6, 2026

a) Open Session from 1-3:30pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Ave, Wells) and via Zoom.  When available, the Open Meeting Agenda can be accessed here 

b) Closed Session from 3:30pm - 4:30pm as per Sections 90(1a + l - appointment and strategic planning) of the Community Charter.  View the Closed Meeting Notice here

Quesnel -- Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda: 

* Committee Reports

* Snow Contractor Liability Insurance

* Food Hub Replacement – Award of Contract

* NDIT Business Façade Improvement Grant

* UBCM Community to Community Grant Application

* Hillside Hazard Development Permit for 1142 Purmal Avenue

* Adopt City of Quesnel Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 1986 of 2026

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Williams Lake -- Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 at 6:00pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

Delegations -- 

a) Angelika Sellick, Social Planning Council of Williams Lake & Area re Thrive Poverty Reduction Strategy Update

b) Jane Wellburn and Ryan Best, Williams Lake Skatepark Association re Update on the Williams Lake Skatepark Project

Business -- 

* Cannabis Licence Referral - 420-1185 Prosperity Way - Marlee's Den

* Bike Rack Installation Update (back entrance to Gibraltar Room public entrance)

* Free Transit Service for Provincial General Election Day - Saturday, October 24, 2026

* Council Attendance at 162nd Lhatŝ’aŝʔin Memorial Day Event on October 26, 2026 in Quesnel, BC 

* Recommendations from Central Cariboo Joint Committee and City of Willaims Lake Accessibility Committee 

* Authorization for annual Remembrance Day event

* Station House Gallery - Support Resolution Request for NDIT Application

* Better at Home Williams Lake (Seniors Centre) - Request to Amend Use for Remaining 2025 Fee-for-Service Funds

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District Board Highlights - October 2, 2026 mtg

Present:

Chair M. Wagner/Vice Chair M. Neufeld; Directors N. Audet, B. Bachmeier, J. Massier, S. Forseth, M. LeBourdais, A. Richmond, J. Glassford, T. Pare, B. Anderson, E. De Vries (via MS Teams), E. Coleman, R. Paull, SPS Rathor and M. Pinkney 

Meeting called to order at 9:45am

Meeting Agenda adopted - click here

Minutes of the previous Board meeting were received/adopted

Delegations:

None 

Business:

1) Development Services

a) The Board approved an application for a Development Permit pertaining to Parcel A (W1971) of District Lot 3140 Cariboo District, Plan 19778 be approved based on Appendices B and D in the staff report dated July 10, 2026 for property at 1250 Chew Rd. in Electoral Area "A"

b) The Board adopted Quesnel Fringe Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5573, 2026 (1250 Chew Rd/Area "A")

c) The Board rejected an application for a Development Variance Permit pertaining to Lot 4, District Lot 728, Lillooet District, Plan 12790 be rejected as the proposal is not in keeping with neighbourhood character for property at 5716 Green Lake North Rd within Electoral Area "L"

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Directors Bachmeier and Anderson (Areas B + K)

d) The Board approved an application for a Development Variance Permit pertaining to Block H, District Lot 2338, Kamloops Division, Yale District with conditions and that the cost of preparation and registration of the covenant be borne by the applicant for property at 9011 Mahood Lake Rd South in Electoral Area "H"

e) The Board supported an Provincial Agricultural Land Commission application for Removal of Soil (Extraction) within the ALR pertaining to Lot B, District Lot 4518 and 7262, Cariboo District, Plan 34267 be authorized for submission to the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission with a recommendation for approval for property on Johnson Rd in Electoral Area "A"

2) Community Services

a) The Board allocated up to $60,000 to enable the installation of additional solar panels to an existing array at the South Cariboo Recreation Centre from the 2026 Community Hall and Recreation Facility Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation envelope of the Community Works Fund

3) Protective Services

a) The Board deferred the recommendation from November 14, 2025 for provision of fire protection services for those on Durrell Rd in Electoral Area "A" from the Kersley VFD for up to 90 days until the new Board has a chance to review the original request

4) Emergency Program Services

a) The Board received updates on: 

* Cariboo Regional District Emergency Operations Centre's Response and Coordination During 2026 Wildfire Season

* Peavine Repeater Site – Central Cariboo Search and Rescue

5) Administration

a) The Board endorsed a recommendation from a previous Committee of the Whole meeting to dissolve the Board Chair's Policy Committee 

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

b) The Board adopted the 2027 Board meeting schedule, as proposed/amended 

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director Rathor (Williams Lake)

c) Late Item -- The Board approved the proposed update to the Cariboo Regional District's Tangible Capital Assets Policy

d) The Board reviewed its' Information-Only items and following discussion: agreed to send a letter of support to SD27/SD28 (School District #27 - Cariboo-Chilcotin and School District #28 - Quesnel) regarding the annual Youth Parliament

6) Recommendations from Committees' or Commissions

The Board endorsed recommendations from the following Cariboo RD Committees' or Commissions

a) South Cariboo Joint Committee - Meeting of August 18, 2026

"That a working group be established to guide the multi-purpose facility / outdoor rink project and further that Mayor Pinkney and Director DeVries be appointed to the working group along with representatives from the 100 Mile Outdoor Rink Society and staff from the District of 100 Mile House and Cariboo Regional District."

b) Policy Committee - Meeting of September 10, 2026

"That staff work to draft a template for letters of support for private business, and bring it back for consideration"

b) South Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus - Meeting of September 21, 2026

i) "That the contribution agreement with 100 Mile & District Historical Society be renewed for a three-year term starting in January 2027 with an annual payment of $15,000 to support operation and maintenance of the 108 Mile Heritage Site and that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the renewal agreement."

ii) "That the Cariboo Regional District enter into a three-year contribution agreement with the Fishing Highway Tourism Association, providing an annual contribution of $5,000 to support tourism marketing efforts in the South Cariboo, and that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreement."

iii) "That the contribution agreement with Lone Butte Historical Society be renewed for a three-year term starting January 2027 with an annual payment of $5,000 to support operation and maintenance of the Lone Butte Water Tower heritage park and tourist rest site and the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreement."

iv) "That the contribution agreement with the District of 100 Mile House for operational support of the recreational vehicle sani-dump facility be renewed at the current amount of $2,500 per year for a term of five years and that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the renewal agreement."

c) Central Cariboo Joint Committee - Meeting of September 23, 2026

i) "That pursuant to the agenda item summary of Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, Cariboo Regional District dated September 14, 2026, the recommendations of the Arts and Culture Fee for Service Committee be endorsed and that three-year contribution agreements, totalling $89,500, be entered into with the following groups at the noted annual amounts:

Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin Society - $38,000;

Station House Studio and Gallery Society - $23,500;

Community Arts Council of Williams Lake - $7,000;

Horsefly Historical Society and Museum - $4,500;

Likely and District Chamber of Commerce Cedar City Museum - $4,500;

150 Mile Greenbelt, Trails and Heritage Society Red School House Museum - $3,500;

Williams Lake Studio Theatre Society - $3,500;

Scout Island Nature Centre Art in Nature Program - $3,000;

Women’s Contact Society for the Annual Children’s Festival - $2,000;

and further that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the contribution agreements as approved."

ii) "That pursuant to the agenda item summary of Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, Cariboo Regional District dated September 15, 2026, the Contract Services Agreement and the Arts Centre Management and Operations Agreement with the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society be renewed for five-year terms with annual payments of $81,000 and $35,000, respectively, plus applicable taxes; and further, that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreements."

iii) "That pursuant to the report of Stacey Miranda, Director of Community Services, City of Williams Lake dated August 25, 2026, updates to Fees and Charges Bylaw 5452 for the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex be endorsed for implementation January 1, 2027 to December 31, 2029; and further, that the required amendments to the Fees and Charges Bylaw be brought forward to the Cariboo Regional District Board for consideration of approval."

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

7) Corporate Bylaws

a) The Board adopted 103 Mile Water System Service Boundary Expansion Bylaw No. 5591, 2026

8) Request from Area Directors' 

a) The Board approved requests from Directors Bachmeier, Wagner and Anderson for access to their local Director Initiative Funds to attend the 2027 BC Natural Resources Forum in Prince George from January 19-21, 2027, as follows: 

Area "B" -- up to $2,500 (subject to Director Bachmeier being re-elected)

Area "H" -- up to $2,000 (subject to Director Wagner being re-elected)

Area  "K" -- up to $1,900 (subject to Director Anderson being re-elected)

Area "L" -- up to $2,500 (subject to Director DeVries being re-elected)

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

b) The Board approved a request from Directors Pare (Area "J") for access to the local Director Initiative Fund (up to $3,000) to attend the 2027 BC Natural Resources Forum in Prince George from January 19-21, 2027

The Board received an activity report of Chair Wagner for the period ending October 2, 2026 and responded to questions of Directors’ 

Directors' reported on their recent activities in their Electoral Area or Municipality 

9) Closed Board Session 

At 1:00pm -- the Board recessed its' Open Session to proceed into a Closed Session, as per Sections 92 + 90(1f - law enforcement) of the Community Charter

10) Resumption of Open Session 

At 1:35pm -- the Board resumed its' Open Session and confirmed a Resolution from the In-Camera Session held earlier this day… 

And then the Board adjourned 

Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board Highlights - October 2, 2026 mtg

Present: 

Chair A. Richmond/Acting Chair J. Massier and Directors Audet, Bachmeier, Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais, Wagner, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries (via MS Teams), 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 approved - click here

Minutes of the previous Board Meeting were received/adopted

Business:

1) The Board received its' Information-Only items and following discussion, took no further action 

2) The Board received a report from its' previous In-Camera Meeting with the following Resolution reported: 

“That regarding the agreement between CCRHD and Ms. Melissa LaPointe for recruitment and retention activities - the proposed contract amendment be approved and up to $20,000 be authorized.”

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

And then the Board adjourned at 9:34am

100 Mile House Council/Cariboo RD Areas G,H,L Directors All Candidates Forum - October 1, 2026

I observed tonight's All Candidates Forum for those running for 100 Mile House Mayor/Councillor as well as those running for Areas G,H,L Directors in the Cariboo Regional District

Running for 100 Mile House Mayor -- Maureen Pinkney (incumbent) vs David Jurek

Running for 100 Mile House Councillor -- 

i) Donna Barnett (incumbent)

ii) Erin Filtness

iii) Aaron Fulber

iv) Ryan Hindmarsh

v) Ralf Holzapfel

vi) Dave Mingo (incumbent)

vii) Norm Knutsen

viii) Marty Norgren (incumbent)

ix) Darren W Wilkinson

x) Dave Wishnowski

Running for Cariboo RD Area "G" Director: 

Al Richmond (incumbent) and Michele Spence, Roz Griston

Running for Cariboo RD Area "H" Director: 

Margo Wagner (incumbent) vs John Kellett

Running for Cariboo RD Area "L" Director:

Eric de Vries (incumbent - not present), Bo McKinney, Jake McLean and Dan Parker

In the nearly 4 hour session -- After introductory and concluding remarks: candidates for 100 Mile House Mayor/Councillor were asked: 

Mayor: 

* Sources of Community Water

* New Businesses to 100 Mile House including in downtown core, industrial sector 

* Status of Red Coach Inn 

* Why didn’t David Jurek run for 100 Mile House Councillor instead of 100 Mile House Mayor 

*  Experience in serving as 100 Mile House Mayor (Maureen Pinkney) 

* Collaborating with Canim Lake FN

* Affordable Housing in 100 Mile House 

* plan to reduce or eliminate  100 Mile House ER Closures 

* Collaboration with Cariboo Regional District (roads, local services, etc

Councillor:

* Dealing with wildfire risk / new residents

* For those seeking re-election: Personal responsibility for lack of progress in 100 Mile House 

* Encouraging people to come work at 100 Mile House Hospital 

* Housing policy decision making 

* What do you bring to the table?

* How will you disagree on Council yet be respectful 

* Actions on empty downtown storefronts?

While candidates for Areas G,H,L Directors in the Cariboo Regional District were asked: 

* Prioritizing Land Use Policies and needs of rural residents and collaborate 

* How to deal with unsightly properties? 

* With rural owners costs rising, which CRD services would you protect, expand, reconsider and/or possibly eliminate? 

* Sustainable South Cariboo VFD’s 

* How can you represent an Electoral Area, if one doesn’t live inside it 

* Dealing with homeless challenges in South Cariboo Electoral Areas

* How to seek additional funding for services in 100 Mile House (pool, etc.) 

Certainly -- voters in 100 Mile House have their work cut out for them to select 1 Mayor (from 2 candidates) and 4 Councillors (from among 10 candidates) while voters in Areas G,H,L of the Cariboo Regional District have their work cut out select a new Area "G" Director (from 3 candidates), a new Area "H" Director (of 2 candidates) and a new Area "L" Director (from among 4 candidates).... 

Xat'sull First Nation cancels agreements with Spanish Mountain Gold

Steve's Meeting/Expense Calendar - September 2026

During the month of September 2026 -- I attended the following meetings or events: 

September 2 - Monthly Meeting of McLeese Lake Recreation Commission at McLeese Lake Community Hall

September 8 - Virtual Joint Ministry of Transportation Staff meeting with Cariboo RD Areas A,B,D Directors Nicole Audet/Barb Bachmeier/Steve Forseth, Mayor of Williams Lake Surinderpal Rathor, Councillor L-A Roodenburg from City of Quesnel and Cariboo RD Chair Margo Wagner to discuss Cariboo-Chilcotin transportation network/individual road issues

September 10 - Committee of the Whole Meeting (Cariboo RD Board) 

September 11 - Meetings of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Cariboo Regional District Boards'

September 23 - Meeting of Central Cariboo Joint Committee in Rick Hansen Boardroom, Williams Lake City Hall

September 24 - Meeting of the Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce meeting

In addition, remained in contact with the Cariboo RD Area D's Alternate Director and used her as a "sounding board" as I deal with issues with my Electoral Area.  As well as responded to inquiries from Area "D" residents' via phone/text, social media or email 

Expenses submitted in September 2026:

September 10 - $129 for Committee of the Whole (Cariboo RD Board) Meeting

September 11 - $206 for Meetings of Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District/Cariboo Regional District Boards' 

September 23 - $83 for meeting of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee 

2026 National Day of Truth and Reconcilation (and Orange Shirt Day)

Courtesy from the “Ruth Lloyd for Williams Lake City Council campaign page” but I agree with what she has shared here:

“Orange Shirt Day has deep roots here in Williams Lake and its message asks something of all of us.

Phyllis Webstad, the founder of Orange Shirt Day, is from Stswecem’c Xgat’tem First Nation and lives in Williams Lake. She was just six years old when the new orange shirt her grandmother had bought her was taken away at St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School. Her willingness to share that experience helped people understand something every child should know: that they matter.

Today, we honour residential school Survivors, remember the children who never came home, and hold their families and communities in our thoughts.
For those of us who call Williams Lake home, this history is close to home too. We have a responsibility to learn about it, listen to those who carry it and let that understanding shape how we treat one another and the decisions we make in our community. I hope we can each make time today to listen and learn.

Every Child Matters. 🧡

Read Phyllis’s story in her own words: https://orangeshirtday.org/about/phyllis-story/?

Quesnel Mayor + Council All Candidates Forum 2026

Joining my Cariboo RD Areas "A" + "C" colleagues -- I observed tonight's All Candidates Forum for both Quesnel Mayor and City Councillor (6) -- all but one of the 18 running for Quesnel Councillor and all three people running for Quesnel Mayor (Ron Paull, Coralee Oakes, Brian Waters) were in attendance

In the 2.5 hour session -- candidates for both Quesnel Mayor + City Councillor, after introductory and closing comments, answered questions relating to public safety,  working with local social agencies, sustainable growth,  attracting investment to Quesnel, understanding the Truth and Reconciliation Commission recommendations and how to apply those learnings to Quesnel 

Questions asked of candidates for Quesnel City Councillor: 

* measurable results  for safe downtown core

* Long Term Planning for Sustainable Growth

While questions asked of those running for Quesnel Mayor were: 

* Balance needs of vulnerable residents and community members, business, etc ….

* Attracting investment to Quesnel 

* How would you work with local First Nations, the Cariboo Regional District and provincial/federal governments to coordinate infrastructure investments across the region

* Do you believe bylaws are being enforced fairly in the downtown core 

* What are Quesnel Council's responsibilities in supporting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community?

* What would you do to simplify permitting, regulations, and approval process to make it easier for businesses to get started, and grow?

* How will you include the needs of the youth of Quesnel in your planning and decision making?

* What is your understanding of the respective roles of Bridges, The Grace, and shelter, and how they work together to support people who are unhoused or at risk?

* What strategies would you implement to support infrastructure renewal and attract new investment to Quesnel?

* Taxpayers are tired of seeing public monopolized by addiction and disorder what is your timeline for restoring law and order to help our businesses disorder

* How will you contribute to TRC and its recommendations as it relates to “Highway of Tears” aka Highway 16 

* If elected, what staff cutbacks would you like to see….. 

One question that raised eyebrows during the Quesnel Mayoral debate was criticism of Quesnel City Manager Joel McKay not residing in the City of Quesnel proper which saw a strong rebuke of the question from incumbent Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull and his chief opponent, Coralee Oakes as being inappropriate and that the City of Quesnel was very lucky indeed to have Joel McKay as its' City Manager which earned a strong round of applause.  The question asked here does go against unspoken practice that CAO or Chief Administrative Officers' are "off-limits" when it comes to all candidates forums and questions for elected officials

It was acknowledged, by way of intervention of incumbent Quesnel Councillor Scott Elliott, at the end of the Quesnel Councillor debate that incumbent Quesnel Councillor Deb McKelvie wanted to attend the All Candidates Forum but was unable to do so and her absence was acknowledged by way of a round of applause 

Certainly -- voters in Quesnel have its' work cut out for them to select 6 people (among 18) for Quesnel City Councillor and to select 1 one from among 3 to become the next Mayor of Quesnel 

20 Days to 2026 Local General Voting Day!

20 days from today (September 28, 2026) -- voters in Wells, Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile House and the rural areas of the Regional District will proceed to vote for new Mayors', Councillors', Electoral Area Directors' in CRD Areas B,C,E,G,H,K and L plus School Trustees in SD#28 (Quesnel) plus School Trustees for Zones 1,3,4,5 in School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) on Saturday, October 17, 2026

The list of candidates can be accessed, as follows: 

a) District of Wells --

https://www.wells.ca/application/files/9717/8978/5300/Declaration_of_Election_Wells_BC_2026.pdf

b) City of Quesnel -- 

https://www.quesnel.ca/city-hall/elections/2026-local-government-elections

c) City of Williams Lake -- 

https://www.williamslake.ca/651/2026-Nomination-Documents-Filed

d) District of 100 Mile House -- 

https://www.100milehouse.com/city-hall/2026-elections

e) Cariboo Regional District (Elections in Areas B,C,E,G,H,K,L) -- 

https://www.cariboord.ca/regional-government/elections-and-voting/2026-local-election-information/

f) School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) (Elections in Zones 1,3,4,5) --

 https://www.sd27.bc.ca/school-trustee-elections

g) School District #28 (Quesnel) -- 

https://www.sd28.bc.ca/2026-general-election

There will be All Candidates Forums in Quesnel/100 Mile House this week.  Quesnel's will be on Tuesday, September 29, 2026 from 6-9pm for Quesnel Mayor/Councillor candidates only at the CNC/UNBC's Quesnel Campus on Campus Way while the one in 100 Mile House will be this Thursday, October 1, 2026 from 6-10pm at the 100 Mile Community Hall at 265 Birch Avenue for 100 Mile Mayor/Councillor candidates as well as those running for CRD Director for Areas G,H,L

There are, currently, no all candidates forums scheduled for School District #27 or #28 School Trustee candidates while there is an All Candidates Forum scheduled for Williams Lake Mayor/Councillor candidates on Monday, October 5, 2026 from 5:30 to 8:00pm in the Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex (525 Proctor St, Williams Lake)

Candidates have been hitting the doorsteps to get the support of voters' until the 1st Advanced Vote on Wednesday, October 7, 2026 and there may be local governments' that offer a 2nd Advanced Vote prior to General Voting Day on Saturday, October 17, 2026 -- you are advised to check your local government or local Board of Education for full details 

Please stay tuned to your local election, wherever you live, so you can cast an informed vote for the person that will best represent you - whether as Mayor, Councillor, School Trustee or Electoral Area Director!

Kiwanis-Rotary Park Playground Surface Replacement Begins September 28, 2026

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake (City) will be undertaking maintenance work at the Kiwanis-Rotary Park playground beginning on Monday, September 28, 2026 to replace the existing rubber safety surface.

To ensure the work can be completed safely and efficiently, the playground area will be temporarily closed for approximately two weeks while construction is underway. Residents are asked to respect all barricades, fencing and signage and to keep clear of the work zone throughout the project.

Please use caution when travelling through the area as construction crews, equipment and materials will be present.

The new rubber surface will help maintain a safe, accessible and enjoyable play space for local families and visitors.

The City thanks residents and visitors for their patience and cooperation as we complete these important improvements to the playground.

Quesnel Council Highlights - September 25, 2026 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Response to Deepening Crisis in British Columbia’s Forest Sector

Council approved sending a letter to the Premier asking the Province to recognize Quesnel as a key partner in the proposed Forest Crisis Action Group and the Make More in BC initiative. With initiatives like the Future of Forestry Think Tank, Forestry Innovation Centre, and Three Rivers Community Forest already in place, Quesnel has the experience, partnerships, and leadership needed to help shape the future of B.C.’s forest sector.

City of Quesnel Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 1986 of 2026

Council approved the first three readings of the 2024-2027 Permissive Tax Exemption Amendment Bylaw. The amendment reflects recent property changes, including the amalgamation of Tillicum Society properties related to the construction of a new apartment building. Tillicum Society has submitted updated applications to reflect the current and planned use of its properties. The bylaw also removes the SPCA property from the permissive tax exemption program, as the current municipal pound services agreement concluded at the end of August.

Sensitive Ecosystem Development Permit for 196 Tatchell Road

Council approved an application to construct a new covered deck within the Sensitive Ecosystem Development Permit Area. The conditions of approval include restoring disturbed soils, minimizing erosion and sediment runoff, and preserving existing riparian vegetation wherever possible.

 TUSE2025-06 Temporary Use Permit - 395 Elliott Street

Council received an update on the work staff has undertaken since September 1 to explore potential Temporary Winter Shelter location options, confirming no alternative options to 395 Elliott were identified. The report also outlined the process available to Council should it wish to reconsider or receive a new application for a Temporary Use Permit related to an emergency shelter at 395 Elliott Street.

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments or Boards of Education Meetings | Week of September 28-October 2, 2026

During the shortened work week, due to National Day of Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day) on Wednesday, September 30 -- during the week of September 28-October 2, 2026 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments or Boards of Education Meetings will be meeting, as follows:

School District #27(Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Regular Board of Education Meeting on Monday, September 28, 2026 at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

* Delegations --

i) -- Int. Field Trip - Sr. Tour Band to travel to Austria and Switzerland– Yvonne Davis  

ii) -- Financial Auditor’s Report, Financial Statements, and Financial Statement Disclosure & Analysis Report (FSD&A)  

* Report of the Superintendent

* Report from previous Committee of the Whole meeting

* Columneetza Jr. Secondary – BC HYDRO Statutory Right of Way (3rd Reading of Columneetza Jr. Secondary BC Hydro Statutory Right of Way – Bylaw 2026-2)

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District: (Please note -- these are the final meetings of the 2022-2026 Cariboo Regional District Board of Directors):

1) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District (CCRHD) - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, October 2nd, 2026 at 9:30am in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

* Info Item: Interior Health Healthy Communities Newsletter

* Release of Item from previous In-Camera Meeting

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) Cariboo Regional District - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, October 2nd, 2026 at 9:45am or upon recess/adjournment of the CCRHD Board Meeting - whichever occurs first in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom - on the Agenda: 

* Land Use Matters (Area Directors' only) 

* Additional Solar Panels at South Cariboo Recreation Centre

* Durrell Road Closure/Fire Protection Impact (request to defer for up to 90 days until new Board is sworn in and can review the request)

* CRD Emergency Operations Centre's Response and Coordination During 2026 Wildfire Season

* Peavine Repeater Site (Chimney Lake area) – Central Cariboo Search and Rescue

* Consideration to dissolve Policy Committee 

* Establish 2027 Board Meeting Calendar

* Information Items 

* Recommendations from Committees/Commissions

* 103 Mile Water System Service Boundary Expansion Bylaw No. 5591, 2026 -- for adoption

* Requests to attend 2027 Natural Resources Forum in Prince George from Directors Bachmeier, Wagner, Anderson and Pare (Areas B,H,J,K).  Requests from Directors Bachmeier, Wagner and Anderson are contingent on their re-election in their respective Electoral Areas on October 17, 2026 while Director Tolin Pare (Area "J") was re-elected by acclamation back on September 21, 2026

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Finally - there are a number of Local Government All Candidates Forums in the Cariboo-Chilcotin Region as follows: 

1) Quesnel - Tuesday, September 29, 2026 from 6-9pm at the CNC/UNBC Campus (by Quesnel McDonalds Restaurant) at 100 Campus Way, off of North Star Rd for Quesnel Mayor/Councillor candidates.  

More details: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1EkWYqhmJz/

2) 100 Mile House - Thursday, October 1, 2026 from 6-10pm at 100 Mile Community Hall (265 Birch Avenue) for 100 Mile House Mayor/Councillor candidates as well as Cariboo RD Areas G,H,L Director candidates...

More details: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1F9zzy7Kdm/

Central Cariboo Joint Committee Highlights - Sept 23rd, 2026 mtg

Present from Cariboo RD: Directors S. Forseth, M. Neufeld (Committee Co-Chair) and M. LeBourdais (Areas D,E,F) 

Present from City of Williams Lake: Mayor SPS Rathor (Committee Co-Chair) and Councillors M. Moses (via Zoom) and J. Flaspohler (via Zoom)

Meeting Chair: Mayor SPS Rathor

Meeting Location: Rick Hansen Boardroom, Williams Lake City Hall

Meeting called to order at 5:30pm

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

Meeting Agenda adopted, as amended (meeting with SD27 Zones 4,5,6 Trustees, after October 2026 local elections to discuss status of Glendale and Marie Sharpe Elementary School projects: Dir. Forseth) - click here

Minutes of the previous Joint Committee meetings was adopted

Delegation:

1) Williams Lake Stampede Association Representatives Court Smith, Lorina Sundt, Liz Crosina and Kayla Jasper appeared before the Committee to provide an update on the Williams Lake Stampede 100th Year Event Planning Update

Following their presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued 

The Chair thanked the delegation for their time/information

Business:

1) The Committee received the following items for information:

* Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society's 'Spring 2026 Grant Awards' Report

* 2026 Pool Operating Schedule Update

* 2026 CMRC Operational Update

* 2026 Williams Lake Mustangs & Williams Lake Stampeders Update

* CMRC Naming Rights Policy Brochure

* Verbal Update re CMRC Heat Recovery Project

* 2026 BC Consumer Protection Act Changes and CMRC Operations

2) The Committee discussed the following items: 

* Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society's '2026-2028 Arts & Culture Fee for Service Agreement Contribution Recipients' Memo

* Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services (CCRLS) 2026 Business, Financial and Capital Plans (for feedback to inform 2027 CCRLS budget development)

* Letter from Billie Sheridan re CMRC Naming Rights Policy (referred by Council)

* Available Grants for Gibraltar Room Fee for October Rick Hansen Foundation Fundraising Gala

* Date Options for December Special CCJC/Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting re Central Cariboo Grant Applications

3) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Fee for Service Agreement Renewals - 2026-2028

A report from the Regional District Manager of Community Services was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved: THAT the Committee recommend to the Regional Board: 

"That pursuant to the agenda item summary of Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, Cariboo Regional District dated September 14, 2026, the recommendations of the Arts and Culture Fee for Service Committee be endorsed and that three-year contribution agreements, totalling $89,500, be entered into with the following groups at the noted annual amounts:

        Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin Society - $38,000;

        Station House Studio and Gallery Society - $23,500;

        Community Arts Council of Williams Lake - $7,000;

        Horsefly Historical Society and Museum - $4,500;

        Likely and District Chamber of Commerce Cedar City Museum - $4,500;

        150 Mile Greenbelt, Trails and Heritage Society Red School House Museum - $3,500;

        Williams Lake Studio Theatre Society - $3,500;

        Scout Island Nature Centre Art in Nature Program - $3,000;

        Women's Contact Society for the Annual Children's Festival - $2,000;

and further, that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the contribution agreements as approved.

4) Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society - Contracting Services Agreements Renewal

A report from the Regional District Manager of Community Services was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved: THAT the Committee recommend to the Regional Board/City Council: 

That pursuant to the agenda item summary of Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, Cariboo Regional District dated September 15, 2026, the Contract Services Agreement and the Arts Centre Management and Operations Agreement with the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society be renewed for five-year terms with annual payments of $81,000 and $35,000, respectively, plus applicable taxes; and further, that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreements

5) Fees and Charges Bylaw 2024-2027 Recommended Updates

A report from the City of Williams Lake Director of Community Services was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved: THAT the Committee recommend to the Regional Board: 

That pursuant to the report of Stacey Miranda, Director of Community Services, City of Williams Lake dated August 25, 2026, the Central Cariboo Joint Committee receive and endorse the proposed updates to Fees and Charges Bylaw 5452 for the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex for implementation January 1, 2027 to December 31, 2029; and further, that the required amendments to the Fees and Charges Bylaw be brought forward to the Cariboo Regional District Board for consideration of approval.

6) Indoor Sport Facility Working Group Minutes & Feasibility Study RFP Award Recommendation

A report from the City of Williams Lake Director of Community Services was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved: THAT the Committee recommend to City Council: 

That pursuant to the report of Stacey Miranda, Director of Community Services, City of Williams Lake dated September 8, 2026, the Central Cariboo Joint Committee receive the Minutes of the Indoor Sport Facility Working Group meetings held August 25, 2026 and September 8, 2026, together with the results of the Request for Proposals process for an Indoor Sport Feasibility Study, for information; and further, that the Joint Committee endorse award of the Indoor Sport Facility Feasibility Study RFP to HCMA Architecture and Design for the bid price of $64,500, plus applicable taxes, and authorize staff to engage the company following final approval by Council

7) Late Item #1 - Joint Meeting between Joint Committee members/SD27 Zones 4,5,6 Trustees

Director Forseth reported on this item

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved: That Staff arrange a meeting following the October 17, 2026 elections between members of Central Cariboo Joint Committee and School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) Trustees for Zones 4,5,6 to discuss the current status of Glendale, Marie Sharpe school sites in the 1st half of 2027

8) Late Item #2 - The Committee discussed the Committee Meeting Agenda Format and following discussion, the Committee directed that similar items be grouped together on future Committee Meeting Agendas, at Staff's discretion 

9) Action Page

The Committee reviewed its Action Page and directed that Items 8,9 be removed from the Action Page

And then the Committee adjourned at 7:30pm