Williams Lake Council Highlights - Apr 14, 2026 mtg

Present: Mayor Rathor; Councillors Boehm. Delainey, Lyons, Moses and Nelson 

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

Mayor Rathor recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw and he welcomed former Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb, Cariboo RD Area "D" Director Steve Forseth and Williams Lake First Nation Kukpi7 (Chief) Willie Sellars to tonight's Council meeting

 

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

Meeting Video - click here 

Meeting Agenda - click here

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous Council meeting were received/adopted

Delegations:

1) Ms. Maureen Straza, Accessibility Advisory Committee Chair appeared before Council to present the Accessibility Advisory Committee's 2025 Year-End Report 

2) Mr. Walt Cobb appeared before Council to present on a Community Grant Application & Funding for Military Crosswalk to Celebrate 100th Anniversary 

3) Ms. Taya Vanderkop-Girard, Wildfire Risk Reduction and FireSmart Coordinator appeared before Council to present an Overview of FireSmart Program and Objectives in the City of Williams Lake

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

Mayor Rathor thanked each delegation for their time/information 

Response to Delegations:

Delegation #1 --  the report of the Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) Chair and Legislative Services Assistant Coordinator dated March 11, 2026 regarding a summary of the AAC's goals and successes from 2025 was received for information

Delegation #2 -- the presentation of Walt Cobb, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 139 requesting Council approval for the proposed installation of a painted military-themed crosswalk project at the intersection of 4th Avenue and Borland Street was received/endorsed.  Council also agreed to provide a Year Round grant for the project in the amount of $4,600, as per Council Policy 230 and referred the matter to the Central Cariboo Joint Committee to seek CRD Area Directors' Financial Support for the crosswalk project

Delegation #3 --  the presentation from Taya Vanderkop-Girard, Wildfire Risk Reduction and FireSmart Coordinator, regarding an introduction and overview of the Williams Lake FireSmart Program and objectives was received for information 

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated March 26, April 2 and 9, 2026

2) Mayor Rathor required Council to reconsider Council Resolution #118/26 as per Section 131 of the Community Charter, as follows: 

That Council direct staff to send a response to the LCRB regarding the cannabis retail licence application at #401-1185 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; 

And further, that Council direct staff to include a record of the community consultation with the response to the LCRB regarding the licence application. 

Following verbal input from the applicant and Unity Cannabis (Williams Lake First Nation) -- 

Council recessed its' Open Meeting at 7:11pm to hold a Closed (In-Camera) Meeting as per Section 90(1i - legal advice) of the Community Charter

At 7:35pm - Council resumed its' Open Meeting 

Following further discussion -- Council rejected Council Resolution #118/26 by the following vote: 

Affirmative - Councillors S. Boehm and A. Delainey

Opposed - Mayor SPS Rathor; Councillors S. Nelson, M. Moses and J. Lyons

3)  Council authorized entering into a License of Occupation Agreement with Fraser Inn Beer & Wine Store Ltd., Inc. No. BC1242853 for an existing freestanding sign located along Donald Ave at 245 Donald Road

4) Council ratified an email poll in relation to the following motion: 

That Council identify that it is strongly opposed to the Thompson River University (TRU) Board’s discussion or the recommendation that the Williams Lake TRU campus be shut down, 

And further that Council demand that public consultation and the implementation of other programs be implemented ASAP on behalf of the Provincial government and the Board of TRU, 

And further that Council be on record that they are 100% opposed that the most important trade school in the province of BC be at risk of closing because of budget short falls.

5) Council gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings to the following Bylaws: 

* City of Williams Lake Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2433, 2026

* City of Williams Lake Tax Rate Bylaw No. 2434, 2026

6) Council endorsed the 2026 April 14, 2026 Regular Council Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan (CWRP) as presented and amended (Goal #35 - work collaboratively between City of Williams Lake, local First Nations and Regional District for wildfire risk reduction strategies for the broader Williams Lake area), and direct staff to use the Plan as the guiding framework for ongoing wildfire risk reduction, operational planning, public education, and future grant applications related to wildfire resilience 

7) Council approved the Cariboo Large Event Municipal Fire Suppression Mutual Aid Agreement between Quesnel, Williams Lake and 100 Mile House

8) Council awarded the Asphalt Resurfacing 2026 contract to Peters Bros Construction Ltd. for the total construction tender amount of $1,178,252.89, excluding GST, for a total project value of $1,338,252.89 including contingency and quality assurance

9) Council awarded the Waterworks 2026 contract to Peterson Contracting Ltd. for the total construction tender amount of $174,518.19, excluding GST, for a total project value of $214,518.19 including contingency and testing

10) Council endorsed Committee recommendations, as follows:

a) Central Cariboo Joint Committee - April 1st, 2026 mtg: 

That pursuant to Central Cariboo Joint Committee Report #04-202, Mayor Rathor and Stacey Miranda from the City of Williams Lake, and Director Neufeld and Darron Campbell from the Cariboo Regional District be appointed to a Working Group for the development of an Indoor Multi-Use Facility in the Central Cariboo

b) Committee of the Whole - March 31st, 2026 mtg:

* That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #09-2026 and the report of the Manager of Engineering dated February 11, 2026, Council receive the latest construction cost estimate for the Water Treatment Plant, endorse the Water Treatment Plant project as a top priority, support the project and move it forward to the design stage, and seek upgrades in grants that will tie in with future programs to cover ongoing project costs

* That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #10-2026, the letter from the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia dated March 23, 2026 regarding the provincial budget 2027 consultation be received and Council request the Province re-insert the $200 northern allowance back into the budget

11) Council received for information the April 1st, 2026 meeting minutes of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee 

12) Council received for information: 

* the following list of recognitions approved in accordance with Council Policy No. 235  

 Lighting Request - Purple on September 13, 2026 for "World Sepsis Day" 

 Proclamation - May 30 to June 5, 2026 for "SpringGoByBike Week" 

 Proclamation - May 2026 for "Hospice Palliative Care Awareness Month" 

 Proclamation - May 17 to 23, 2026 for "National Public Works Week" 

* "Council Information Package" as of April 14, 2026

And then Council adjourned at 8:21pm

Input sought on Williams Lake FLP/Forest Landscape Plan

Courtesy of the Government of BC: 

Local residents are invited to share their input on the development of the Cariboo-Chilcotin forest landscape plan (FLP) to guide long-term forest management decisions in the area.

People can share their thoughts through a survey, which will run from Monday, April 13 to May 30, 2026. The Ministry of Forests will also hold two open houses so the community can learn more about forest landscape planning and ask questions.

Open house details are as follows:

April 29, 2026
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex
525 Proctor St.
Williams Lake

May 2, 2026
10 a.m. to noon
Community Club
2620 Stum Lake Rd.
Alexis Creek

First Nations and community engagement

FLPs are developed in partnership with First Nations to ensure meaningful participation in forestry planning and long-term decision-making.

The following First Nations have partnered with the Province on the Cariboo-Chilcotin FLP:

• Stswecem'c Xgat'tem First Nation
• Tsq’escen’ (Canim Lake Band)
• Nuxalk
• Tsideldel
• Xatśūll
• Tl’esqox
• Ulkatcho
• Esk’etemc
• Yunesit’in
• ?Esdilagh Nazko
• Xeni Gwet’in
• Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN)
• Tsilhqot’in National Government
• Lhoosk’uz
• Lhtako
• Xwisten

Engagement with other First Nations in the area continues.

Engagement with forest licensees, subject-matter experts and the public is a key part of every FLP. This ensures that all parties have opportunities to share their perspectives and help inform decisions about future forest management in the region. The Cariboo-Chilcotin FLP team regularly updates forest licensees on planning progress and has scheduled a meeting for licensees to attend to further discuss how their expertise can support plan development alongside community identified values.

Through early collaboration with First Nations partners and initial engagement with forest licence holders, key themes have emerged that will be integrated into the survey for public feedback to reflect community priorities.

Developing FLPs is a new approach to forest stewardship that establishes clear direction for the management of forest-related values, such as old forests, biodiversity, ecosystem health, climate change, watershed health and wildfire risk.

Once feedback is received, the next step is to incorporate feedback into the FLP itself.

Quick Facts:

• B.C. has 15 forest landscape tables that are at various phases of planning, representing 42% of the area intended for FLPs.
• FLP design is guided by five key objectives: 
  • manage the values placed on forest ecosystems by First Nation
  • support the protection and conservation of the environment
  • support production and supply of timber in the forest landscape area
  • manage the values placed on ecosystems by local communities
  • prevent, mitigate and adapt to effects caused by significant disturbances to forests and forest health

Learn More:

To learn more about the Cariboo-Chilcotin FLP and provide feedback through the survey, visit:
https://planninginpartnership.ca/p/67dcaa40f2b5af00399085de/commenting

To learn about sustainable forest stewardship and forest landscape plans in B.C., visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/forestry/managing-our-forest-resources/forest-landscape-plans

Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Responds to 100 Mile House ER Interruptions

Courtesy of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District:

The Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District (CCRHD) is aware of the recent temporary service interruptions at 100 Mile District General Hospital and recognizes the concern this creates for residents across the South Cariboo.

Reliable access to emergency and hospital services is critical in rural communities. These recent closures highlight ongoing challenges with healthcare staffing and the need for more flexible, community-focused solutions.

The CCRHD continues to work with Interior Health, local governments, and healthcare partners to support recruitment and retention efforts in the region.

In a recent letter from the CCRHD to Interior Health and the Ministry of Health several actions were identified for consideration to help address ongoing service interruptions at 100 Mile House, including:

Enrolling 100 Mile District General Hospital in the LINK-ED pilot project (a provincial program that connects rural emergency departments with virtual physician support to help maintain service coverage) to help maintain emergency department coverage

Prioritizing the development of compensation agreements and expanded scope-of-practice guidelines for Nurse Practitioners working in emergency departments

Supporting innovative and sustainable staffing models tailored to rural healthcare settings

These items were put forward to support ongoing efforts around improving staffing stability and emergency department coverage.

The CCRHD continues to support healthcare services across the Cariboo-Chilcotin Region through ongoing investments in facility improvements, capital projects, and initiatives that contribute to recruitment and retention, including staff housing.

The CCRHD recognizes the frustration these interruptions cause and remains committed to working with Interior Health and supporting efforts that strengthen rural healthcare services across the Cariboo-Chilcotin Region.

Xat'sull First Nation opposes any changes to DRIPA

Courtesy of Xat'sull First Nation:

Williams Lake Mayor SPS Rathor at 2026 Council of Forest Industries Conference in Vancouver, BC

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

From Left to Right:
Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull, Cariboo RD Vice-Chair (and Area "E" Director) Melynda Neufeld
100 Mile House Mayor Maureen Pinkney and 
Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor

City of Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor attended the annual Council of Forest Industries (COFI) conference in Vancouver from April 8 to 10, 2026. The mayor joined other Interior elected officials, producers and delegates to strongly advocate for the forest industry while at the conference.

The City of Williams Lake continues to urge the Minister of Forests to assign a senior official with decision making authority to be the primary point of contact focused on the Cariboo region with a mandate to deliver timely solutions to stabilize the forest sector in the BC Interior.

In a letter to the Minister, the City called for implementation of a proposed pilot program to enable operational timber pricing flexibility that will recognize the real price of timber harvesting and transportation costs to address areas of specific operational challenge such as steep slopes or far distances. The current pricing model provides a price for large area tenures and does not account for areas that are more expensive to harvest, resulting in these unharvested areas becoming fire hazards. This proposed pilot could bring relief to several Cariboo Chilcotin-based forest operations. While the Minister of Forests has indicated support for the proposed pilot, it has yet to be implemented.

“We are hearing from the forest community that there is not a Provincial sense of urgency in developing new strategies that could bring relief to the industry,” says Mayor Rathor. “I attended the COFI Conference to advocate for the Williams Lake Region, and there is a clear need for extra capacity within the Ministry of Forests to ensure a timely response. It is critical that there is action and commitment to address these challenges. We want an assurance that the Ministry is moving at a pace that will see hard-working producers feel heard and respected with solutions that will make a difference now, not years from now.”

The City will also continue to advocate for a review and serious consideration of offers of support to BC Timber Sales so that they can reach their annual sales targets. Consistence in meeting sales targets will provide more certainty and stability to producers. As well, First Nations and licensees have been calling for mechanisms that allow for more collaborative permit development within BCTS operating areas.

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government or Boards' of Education Meetings - Week of April 13-17, 2026

During the week of April 13-17, 2026 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government or Boards' of Education will be holding meetings: 

Wells -- Meetings, as noted below, in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue, Wells) or via Zoom on Tuesday, April 14, 2026

1) Closed Council Meeting from 2-3pm and 4:45pm to 5:30pm as per Sections 90(a + l - appointment and strategic planning) of the Community Charter.  View the Closed Meeting Notice here

2) Open Council Meeting from 3pm to 4:30pm.  When available, the full Meeting Agenda can be viewed here

Quesnel - Policy Committee meeting at 3:15pm on Thursday, April 16, 2026 at 3:15pm in the Fraser River Meeting Room (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda: 

* Consolidation and Update of Election and Other Voting Procedures Bylaw

* Discussion Items -- Recording options for NCJAC (North Cariboo Joint Advisory Committee) meetings, 1KM Distance Rule and Unsightly Properties

View the full Meeting Agenda here

School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Board of Education Meeting at 7pm on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 in the SD28 Boardroom (401 North Star Rd, Quesnel).  When available, the full Meeting Agenda can be viewed here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Committee of the Whole Session at 4:30pm on Monday, April 13, 2026 in the SD27 Administration Office (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Bridge Lake Citizens' Foundation

*  Board / Superintendent Strategic Plan Review 

*  Long Range Facilities Plan - Draft Approval and Release for Input 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting at 6:00pm on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

* Delegations: i) Maureen Straza, AAC Chair re Accessibility Advisory Committee - 2025 Year-End Report; ii) Walt Cobb re Community Grant Application & Funding for Military Crosswalk to Celebrate 100th Anniversary; iii) Taya Vanderkop-Girard, Wildfire Risk Reduction and FireSmart Coordinator re: Overview of FireSmart Program and Objectives

* Mayor to require reconsideration - Cannabis License Referral (1185 Prosperity Way)

* License of Occupation Agreement - Fraser Inn Beer & Wine Store Ltd. - 245 Donald Road

* Poll of Council - Support for Thompson Rivers University's Williams Lake Campus (to remain open)

* 2026 Financial Plan and Tax Rate Bylaws - 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings

* Williams Lake Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan - for endorsement

* Cariboo Large Event Municipal Fire Suppression Mutual Aid Agreement (Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile House)

* Award for Asphalt Resurfacing and Waterworks 

* Appointments to Central Cariboo Indoor Multi-Use Facility Working Group (recommendation from Central Cariboo Joint Committee)

* 2 recommendations from previous Committee of the Whole meeting for endorsement (Water Treatment Plant and 2027 Provincial Budget Consultation)

View the full Meeting Agenda here

 100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting at 5:30pm on Tuesday, April 14, 2026 in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House).  On the Agenda: 

* Delegation: Mr. Peter Scholz – Rail Line Advocate 

* Public Hearing: OCP Bylaw No. 1465, 2026 and Zoning Bylaw No. 1466, 2026 

* Financial Plan Public Presentation 

* Letter from Mr. Reimer regarding signage in the Sandhill Crescent subdivision

* BC Transit Annual Operating Agreement 

* FireSmart Monthly Report - March 2026 

* 2026 Local Government Elections - District of 100 Mile House

* Closed Council Meeting - Sections 90(1c,g,k - labour, litigation and negotiations) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District -- 

1) South Cariboo Joint Committee at 12:00pm on Monday, April 13, 2026 in 100 Mile House Council Chambers.  On the Agenda: 

* Delegation: 100 Mile Youth Initiative 

* Info Item: 100 Mile House Curling Club 2026 Report

* Action Items -- Proposal for Construction of Soccer Field Gate and Lumberman's Ballpark Bleachers

* Discussion Items -- South Cariboo Recreation Centre (Outdoor Rink and Media Booth Project)

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District Board Highlights - April 10, 2026 meeting

Present:

Chair M. Wagner; Directors N. Audet, B. Bachmeier, J. Massier, S. Forseth, M. LeBourdais, A. Richmond, J. Glassford, T. Pare, B. Anderson, E. De Vries, E. Coleman and Alternate Directors L. Roodenburg (Quesnel), S. Nelson (Williams Lake)

Meeting called to order at 9:55am

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional, unceded territory of the Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw and welcomed Alternate Directors Roodenburg, Nelson to today's Cariboo Regional District Board meeting

Meeting Agenda adopted - click here

Minutes of the previous Board meeting were received/adopted

Delegation -- 11:30am:

Gladys Attrill, 2025-26 NCLGA President and Terry Robert, NCLGA Executive Director appeared before the Board to provide an update on the activities of the North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA) 

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

The Chair thanked the delegation for their time/information

Business:

1) The Board rejected Quesnel Fringe Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5559, 2026 as the proposed use is not in keeping with the neighbourhood character (Area A/1018 Maple Heights Rd) 

2) Following a statutory Public Hearing -- the Board gave 3rd Reading to Chilcotin Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5543, 2025 (Area K/5531 Chilcotin Hwy 20)

3) The Board approved Development Variance Permit #8-2026 (Area H/3774 Bowers Lake Rd)

4) The Board authorized for submission a Provincial Agricultural Land Commission application for Soil and Fill Use pertaining to The North West ¼ of District Lot 6490, Cariboo District  to the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission with a recommendation for approval (Area C/east of Clarence Rd and Highway 97 North of Quesnel, BC)

5) The Board authorized for submission a Provincial Agricultural Land Commission application for subdivision pertaining to Lot A, District Lots 83 and 319, Cariboo District, Plan PGP40531, Except Plan EPP56753 to the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission with a recommendation for approval (Area B/Yargueau Road) 

6) The Board approved for submission the 108 Mile Ranch Community Association’s grant application to Northern Development Initiative Trust’s Community Places stream for $30,000 to install an outdoor washroom facility 

7) The Board approved the request from the 100 Mile Nordics Ski Society for up to $45,000 for the installation of solar panels at the 99 Mile Cross Country Ski Trails facility from the 2026 Community Hall and Recreation Facilities Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation envelope of the Regional District's Community Works Fund

8) The Board waived Procurement Policy No. 2023-9-32 and a Project Management and Coordinating Professional of Record contract with Celtic Engineering Ltd. for the Esler Access Road Project with a term of March 2026 to October 2028 and a value of $330,750 plus applicable taxes was approved

9) The Board authorized Year Round Grant for Assistance Applications, as follows: 

i) Alexis Creek Community Club - $1,000 from Area "K"

ii) Big Creek Community Association - $1,000 from Area "K"

iii) Chimney Felker Lake Landholders Association - $1,000 from Area "E"

10) The Board approved 4 resolutions to authorize a referendum in July 2026 regarding renovating the firehall for the Forest Grove Fire Protection Service within Electoral Area "H"

11) The Board considered a request from NCLGA (North Central Local Government Association) regarding co-sponsorship regarding Improved Access to Publicly Funded Mental Health Services, as put forward by the City of Dawson Creek and agreed to the request 

12) The Board reviewed Information Only items and following discussion, took no further action

13) The Board endorsed the following Committees or Commission recommendations: 

i) Policy Committee - March 19, 2026 mtg: 

* That the draft Community Engagement Sessions Policy be endorsed as attached, replacing the Board on the Road Meetings Policy (2024-1-3)

* That the Cariboo Regional District Graphic Standards Manual Policy be endorsed as attached

* That the amendment to the Privacy Management Program Policy be approved

* That Policy #02-04B-5(6) Remuneration for Election Officers/Officials be endorsed as amended to increase the flat rate paid to election officials from $330/$230 to $375/$275 reflecting current minimum wage requirements in BC

ii) Central Cariboo Joint Committee - April 1, 2026 mtg: 

* That a letter of support be provided to the R.I.S.E Society from the Cariboo Regional District.

* That Mayor Rathor and Stacey Miranda from the City of Williams Lake, and Director Neufeld and Darron Campbell from the Cariboo Regional District be appointed to a Working Group for the development of an Indoor Multi-Use Facility in the Central Cariboo

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

Meeting recessed at 10:50am

Meeting resumed at 11:36am

Delegation - NCLGA (See Above)

Meeting recessed for lunch at 11:55am

Meeting resumed at 12:35pm

iii) North Cariboo Joint Committee - February 10, 2026 mtg: 

"That the Board direct staff to implement recording and posting of Joint Advisory Committee meetings on the City of Quesnel website.”

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

Resolved (at request of Chair M. Wagner): That Staff investigate recording options for Central and South Cariboo Joint Committee meetings’ 

14) Corporate Bylaws: 

i) The Board gave Forest Grove Fire Protection Service Amendment Bylaw No. 5556, 2026 and Forest Grove Fire Protection Firehall Renovation Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 5566, 2026 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings 

ii) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption to Map Services and Fees Bylaw No. 5568, 2026

iii) The Board adopted Wildwood Fire Protection Service Area Amendment Bylaw No. 5565, 2026

15) Directors' Items

a) The Board received a report of Director B. Anderson (Area "K") regarding the 2026 Guide Outfitters Association of BC AGM in Kelowna, BC on March 27-28, 2026

b) At the request of Director S. Forseth (Area "D"): 

i) Agriculture Land Commission: 

* The Board approved a letter be forwarded to the BC Minister of Agriculture & Food expressing disappointment that the 2026 provincial budget did not allocate the necessary financial resources for the work of the Agriculture Land Commission (ALC) and has now caused ALC staff layoffs and will cause longer processing times for ALR Applications which current processing time for ALR applications already frustrate Cariboo-Chilcotin ranchers and farmers and that the Cariboo Regional District respectfully asks that the 2027 Provincial Budget allocate the appropriate financial resources for the Agriculture Land Commission and its very necessary work and finally, that a copy of the letter be forwarded to BC’s Minister of Finance 

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director J. Massier (Area “C”) 

ii) Thompson Rivers University Board of Governors

* The Board approved a letter be forwarded to the Thompson Rivers University (TRU) Board of Governors expressing its concern and its opposition to the closure of the TRU campus in Williams Lake and the reduction of university/trades courses and services in Williams Lake and the Cariboo Regional District and that staff arrange a meeting with the President of TRU to discuss the situation of the TRU Campus in Williams Lake and that a copy of this letter be provided to the City of Williams Lake and local MLA’s… 

The Board received a written activities report of Chair Wagner for the period ending April 8, 2026 

Resolved: At request of Director Audet (Area “A”) — the Board authorized certain appointments to the Kersley Recreation Commission 

Directors' reported on their recent activities... 

And then the Board adjourned 

Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board Highlights - April 10, 2026 mtg

Present: 

Chair A. Richmond/Vice Chair J. Massier and Directors Audet, Bachmeier, Forseth, LeBourdais, Wagner, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Coleman, Smith and Alternate Directors L. Roodenburg (Quesnel), S. Nelson (Williams Lake) 

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 and welcomed Alternate Directors Roodenburg and Nelson to today's Board meeting

Meeting Agenda adopted - click here

Minutes of the previous CCRHD Board Meeting were adopted

Business:

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

2) At the request of Alternate Director S. Nelson (Williams Lake) -- 

That the Board supports the creation of involuntary beds within the Cariboo region; in partnership with the Province, the Cariboo Regional District's member municipalities, and the Health Authorities (Northern/Interior Health), and that a letter to the Minister of Health (Hon. Josie Osborne) be provided advising of such

Meeting recessed at 9:55am

Meeting resumed at 11:00am

Delegation:

Dr. Nathan Lachowsky, Dean, Faculty of Human and Health Sciences, UNBC; and Jenn Scott, Dean for the School of Health Sciences and Human Services, CNC appeared before the Board to discuss Healthcare Post-Secondary education at CNC (College of New Caledonia) and UNBC (Quesnel/Prince George) 

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

The Chair thanked Mssrs. Lachowsky and Scott for their time and information 

And then the Board adjourned at 11:35am

Bill M216 (Professional Reliance Act) to be withdrawn

Courtesy of Hon. Christine Boyle - BC's Minister of Municipal Affairs/Housing:

Editor's Note -- this is a positive development.  The vast majority of Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments (Quesnel, Williams Lake, Cariboo Regional District) all issued letters staunchly opposed to Bill M216 (Professional Reliance Act)

Christine Boyle, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, has issued the following statement following the request of George Anderson, MLA for Nanaimo-Lantzville, to the Select Standing Committee on Private Bills and Private Member’s Bills to not continue consideration of Bill M216, Professional Reliance Act, in light of the Province’s commitment to undertake further work on the bill’s core principles:

“I would like to express my gratitude to MLA Anderson for his thoughtful work on Bill M216 for advancing a proposal to help speed up housing approvals in the province. His work framed important conversations on how regulated professionals like architects and engineers can play a greater role in the permitting and approval processes. Building more homes for people is a goal that MLA Anderson and I deeply share.

“In recognition of the local governments, organizations and individuals that took countless hours to provide written submissions to the committee, the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs will be engaging with stakeholders to see how we can continue to reduce permitting timelines for new housing projects. This work will explore how to build on the principles of safety, speed and professional responsibility while balancing the needs of local governments and regulated professionals. We anticipate this work to begin later this year.

“Our government has already taken important steps to streamline housing approvals through the Development Approval Process Review and the new Building Permit Hub, and we know there is more work to do. Bill M216 has made a meaningful contribution to that work, and I look forward to working with MLA Anderson in advancing this important conversation in the weeks and months to come.”

Call for Expressions of Interest - 100 Mile House Economic Development Task Force

Courtesy of the District of 100 Mile House:

Are you committed to 100 Mile House’s growth and prosperity? 

We are looking for business-minded individuals with strong networking capabilities to join forces with us to focus on business-to-business support for investment attraction. 

By actively seeking out skill gaps in our region and directly engaging with potential business operators, you can help us draw in the businesses, professionals, and trades we need to strengthen our economic health. 

The Council of the District of 100 Mile House intends to establish a NEW Economic Development Task Force to build bridges between local government and the private sector, with the goal of attracting new investment. We are seeking expressions of interest for voluntary Task Force membership.

A Terms of Reference for the Economic Development Task Force is attached which outlines general expectations and scope of work.

If you are interested in being considered for this advisory role, please submit an expression of interest by email to:

J. Doddridge, Director of Economic Development & Planning
jdoddridge@100milehouse.com

Your expression of interest should include:

• Your business background / experience

• Why you’re interested in joining the Task Force

• What skills can you offer the Task Force in meeting its goals

• Your contact details

This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone looking to shape the future of 100 Mile House. 

Deadline for expressions of interest is 2:00 pm, Monday May 4, 2026.

100 Mile House Economic Development Task Force Terms of Reference

Quesnel Council Highlights - April 7, 2026 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Sprout Kitchen Presentation

Kathleen Daly, Food Hub Manager, and Lynda Atkinson, Board Chair, shared an update with Council on the past, present, and future of Sprout Kitchen. Before the building fire in May 2025, Sprout Kitchen was experiencing steady growth, with eight regular members and two new members supported through its subscription‑based membership and additional services.

Since the fire, members have been displaced but continue to receive support from the Board of Directors and management through relocation efforts. The Sprout Kitchen Society also discussed a potential extension of its current operating agreement, matching the length of time operations have been suspended due to the fire. Looking ahead, plans for the rebuilt facility include growing membership, securing corporate sponsorships, expanding the delivery service, and offering rentable storage space.

 

Prince George to North Vancouver Railway Presentation

Peter Scholz of Cairnstone Planning Inc. provided Council with an update on the potential discontinuation and removal of a more than 200‑mile segment of the former BC Rail line, stretching from Squamish to 100 Mile House. He is currently engaging with local communities and senior levels of government to highlight the strategic and economic importance of the railway corridor.

Mayor Paull will attend the 2026 Council of Forest Industries (COFI) Convention, taking place April 8–10 in Vancouver, where he plans to discuss the issue with forestry leaders and government representatives. July 2026 was identified as a key decision point, as CN Rail is expected to determine its plans for the corridor at that time.

 

Vista Radio Lease Agreement

Council approved entering into a two‑year lease agreement with Vista Radio. Vista Radio has leased office space in City Hall since 2007 and currently occupies approximately 1,876 square feet on the fifth floor of the building. The new agreement includes a 1.5% increase to the base rent, which will remain fixed for both years of the lease term. The agreement meets the requirements of the City Facility and Property Lease Policy which requires commercial leases to be at fair market value.

Mutual Aid Agreement

Council approved a regional fire suppression mutual aid agreement with the City of Williams Lake and the District of 100 Mile House. The agreement strengthens emergency response by allowing communities to support one another when additional resources are needed to protect public safety and critical infrastructure. The Quesnel Fire Department may decline requests if assistance would impact its ability to serve the community.

Sprout Kitchen Food Hub Operating Agreement Extension

Council approved an extension of the Sprout Kitchen Food Hub Operating Agreement with the Sprout Kitchen Society. The extension will match the length of time the Food Hub was unable to operate due to the fire and rebuilding process, up to a maximum of 30 months, helping support Sprout Kitchen as it works toward reopening.

Moonshine Coffee Ltd. Lease Agreement

Council approved a five‑year lease agreement with Moonshine Coffee Ltd. Moonshine Coffee has operated a coffee roasting business and café on the upper floor and balcony of Shiraoi House in LeBourdais Park since 2021. The new agreement is based on a 2.95% increase to the fixed lease rate for the full term. The agreement meets the requirements of the City Facility and Property Lease Policy which requires commercial leases to be at fair market value.

Quesnel Pride Society Parade Route - Request for full road closure

Council approved the Quesnel Pride Society’s request for a full road closure for the Quesnel Pride Parade on June 6, 2026, replacing the rolling parade used in previous years. The parade will begin at City Hall parking lot, travel through downtown, and conclude at LeBourdais Park.

Announcements and Events

• Cariboo Country Bluegrass Jamboree - April 10-12, 2026 - Quesnel Senior’s Centre
• Congratulations to the Quesnel Kangaroos on their season, winning the CIHL banner
• Quesnel Rotary Club
  • The 2026 Quesnel Craft Beer Festival, held on March 28, 2026 was a success
  • Earth Day – April 18, 2026 – the Quesnel Rotary Club will be partnering with 100 Mile House and Williams Lake to clean portions of Highway 97.
• Annual Johnston / Carson Neighbourhood Garage / Yard Sale – May 2, 2026 – noting that the Johnston Bridge will likely be closed on this date.

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of April 7-10, 2026

Following the Easter Long Weekend -- Quesnel City Council; Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Cariboo Regional District Boards' will be holding meetings - as follows: 

Quesnel: Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda: 

* Delegations -- i) Sprout Kitchen, ii) Prince George to North Vancouver Railway

* Committee Reports

 

* Renew Lease with Vista Radio

* Mutual Aid Agreement between Quesnel, Williams Lake and 100 Mile House Fire Departments' 

* Sprout Kitchen Operating Agreement

* Moonshine Coffee (Shiraoi House) Lease Agreement 

* Quesnel Pride Society - Request for full road closure for 2026 Parade 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District -- all meetings, noted below, to be held in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake)

1) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District/Regular Board Meeting on Friday, April 10th at 9:30am.  On the Agenda: 

* Delegation: Dr. Nathan Lachowsky, Dean, Faculty of Human and Health Sciences, UNBC; and Jenn Scott, Dean for the School of Health Sciences and Human Services, CNC 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) Cariboo Regional District/Regular Board Meeting on Friday, April 10th at 9:45am.  On the Agenda: 

* Land Use Matters (Zoning, OCP, ALR Applications)

* NDIT Application – 108 Mile Ranch Community Association – Outdoor Washroom Facility

* 100 Mile Nordics Ski Society Community Works Funding (CWF) - Solar Panel Project and Enabling Agreement

* Esler Sports Complex Access Road Project – Celtic Engineering Project Management and Coordinating Professional of Record Award of Contract

* Year Round Grant applications - 2 from Area K and 1 from Area E

* Forest Grove Fire Protection – Firehall Renovation Referendum (Assent Vote)

* NCLGA Resolution – Improved Access to Publicly Funded Mental Health Services – Consideration of Co-Sponsorship

* Committee Recommendations for endorsement 

* Several Corporate By-laws for 3 Readings or 3 Readings and Adoption

* Report from Director Anderson (Area K) re: 2026 Guide Outfitters of BC AGM

* Requests from Director Forseth (Area D) re: Letter to BC Minister of Agriculture for sustainable funding of Agriculture Land Commission and Letter to TRU Board of Governors re: suspend discussion of closure of TRU Williams Lake Campus until community consultation is complete

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Finally -- a number of Cariboo-Chilcotin local elected officials are attending the 2026 Council of Forest Industry (COFI) Convention in Vancouver, BC from April 8-10, 2026 including Cariboo RD Area E Director/Vice Chair Melynda Neufeld and Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor.  

COFI Convention 2026 Agenda: https://cofi.zohobackstage.ca/COFI2026Convention#/Program?day=1&lang=en

Changes to BC Local Government Legislation (Provincial Code of Conduct/26 Weeks of Parental Leave)

The Hon. Christine Boyle (BC Minister of Municipal Affairs) earlier today introduced amendments to the Community Charter, Local Government Act, etc. regarding:

i) Provincial Code of Conduct which is mandatory for all local elected officials in BC (Mayors, Councillors, EA Directors) and related matters

ii) 26 Weeks of Parental Leave for local elected officials

Summary of the above can be viewed at:

a) Provincial Code of Conduct -- https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2026HMA0033-000349

b) 26 Weeks of Parental Leave for local elected officials -- https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2026HMA0036-000366

The actual legislation can be viewed at:

Provincial Code of Conduct -- https://www.leg.bc.ca/parliamentary-business/overview/43rd-parliament/2nd-session/bills/1st_read/gov17-1.htm

26 Weeks of Parental Leave -- https://www.leg.bc.ca/parliamentary-business/overview/43rd-parliament/2nd-session/bills/1st_read/gov18-1.htm

Thanks to the many years of advocacy by the Union of BC Municipalities on these topics ... but time will have to tell if the provincial mandatory Code of Conduct for local elected officials will "change the dial" on a respectful workplace at BC Local Governments (Municipal Councils/Regional Boards)

Joint Collaboration Agreement between FNLGA/Climate Caucus

Joint Release between First Nations Leadership/Governance Association and Climate Caucus:

The First Nations Leadership and Governance Association (FNLGA) and Climate Caucus have partnered on a bold set of initiatives designed to expand public dialogue and increase equality in municipal representation.  

Currently, just 7 out of 1100 municipal leaders in B.C. are First Nations, despite representing close to 5 percent of the province’s population.  Through this partnership, First Nations candidates running in municipal elections will receive free access to Climate Caucus’ campaign school: a highly-tailored program designed by experienced campaign managers to be strategic, useful and game-changing. 

Participants will have access to a suite of tools, trainings and an active peer network, alongside successful campaign experts who have won across the country and who will offer advice, office hours and key insights.  

First Nations candidates will also have access to a network of mentors, including current and former elected leaders, as well as Indigenous, non-elected leaders, so as to provide an integrated support network across perspectives, cultures and experiences. 

"We are so excited about this opportunity for FNLGA to work with Climate Caucus. Our two organizations share many goals and walk the same paths, and now we can do so together while supporting each other. First Nations peoples have been vocal about climate change and adaptation for as long as we have observed environmental change and seasonal shifts, especially when these impacts affect the water, plants, and animals we have relied on for survival.  Climate Caucus has been doing this work on the ground and with a governance perspective. We would be proud to share these views and to work with Climate Caucus, ensuring that First Nations' perspectives are heard in this arena. There is so much work to be done, and we are 1 prepared to build this relationship and do the work together,” said Michael Moses, Founder and Executive Director of FNLGA. 

“To ensure safe, healthy and prosperous communities, we need policies that respond to—and mitigate—climate impacts. And we need stronger local democracies, rooted in building connections, finding shared solutions and respecting differences, especially during times of growing polarization and disinformation. We’re honoured to be in partnership with Michael and his team at FNLGA, not only to support voices that deserve a seat at the table, but to bolster the resilience of our local democracies during a time of division fuelled by vested interests,” said Zoe Grams, Executive Director of Climate Caucus.  

FNLGA and Climate Caucus will continue to build this partnership, including through a working group with local elected leaders working to identify new and resilient pathways for collaborations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities when racism is on the rise.