Quesnel Council Highlights - July 28, 2026 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

2026/27 Northstar Interchange Prescribed Fire Proposal

Matt Duran, Wildfire Technician with the Quesnel Fire Zone of the Cariboo Fire Centre, provided Council with an update on plans for a prescribed burn near the Northstar Interchange.

The project is designed to reduce the risk of spring grass fires by safely removing dead vegetation that can easily ignite and spread to nearby properties, infrastructure, and forested areas.

Planning and coordination are ongoing, with the BC Wildfire Service working closely with the Quesnel Fire Department, local First Nations, and other partners to ensure the burn is carried out safely and effectively.

The burn will only proceed when weather and site conditions are favourable. While timing will depend on those conditions, the current target is Spring 2027, when crews can remove winter vegetation and encourage healthy new growth in the area.

Quesnel Regional Airport Master Plan

Council recently received an overview of the upcoming Quesnel Regional Airport Master Plan from HM Aero Aviation Consulting.

The plan will help guide the airport's long-term future by identifying operational, infrastructure, and economic development priorities while adapting to changing industry needs. Work will be completed in four phases, including stakeholder engagement, background analysis, strategic planning, and development of the final Master Plan.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026 and will help shape the future direction of the Quesnel Regional Airport for years to come.

March with Arch

Council approved a request to reserve two campsites for four nights in support of the annual March with Arch Pilgrimage in 2026.

The March with Arch is an annual healing journey that honours Archie Chantyman and promotes messages of faith, hope, love, unity, and forgiveness. The pilgrimage brings participants together in a shared experience focused on healing and community connection.

The reserved campsite dates are September 11 to 13 and September 21 to 23, 2026.

Nilhts’i Ecoener Wind Project

Council deferred consideration of a request to provide a letter of support for the Nilhts’i Ecoener Wind Project as part of its Energy Regulator Activities Act permit application.

Council requested additional information regarding the project's potential use of the Quesnel landfill and any associated impacts on landfill capacity and operations. The matter will be brought back to a future Council meeting for further consideration once that information has been received.

City of Quesnel Appointment of Officers and Delegation of Authority Amendment Bylaw No. 1985 of 2026 

Council approved the first three readings of the City of Quesnel Appointment of Officers and Delegation of Authority Amendment Bylaw No. 1985 of 2026.

Providence Long Term Care and Assisted Living Update

Council received an update on the proposed Providence Long-Term Care and Assisted Living development at Cariboo Field (345 Roddis Drive).

Development Permit approval and site preparation for the new 144-bed long-term care and 144-bed assisted living facility is expected to begin in late fall, with construction anticipated to start in spring or summer 2027.

Council was also advised that the project has requested approval for construction activities between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., seven days a week. Under the City's Nuisance Bylaw, construction noise is currently permitted from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on weekdays and 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekends.

Council Information Package:

Council discussed the Council Information package:

• Northern-Rural Homeowner Grant – City of Prince George:
  Council approved a letter be sent to the City of Prince George to support their request to the Province to reconsider the decision to end the Northern-Rural Homeowner Benefit.
• Temporary Winter Shelter:
  Council directed staff to obtain legal advice regarding the City's authority, responsibilities, and potential liabilities related to the provision or non-provision of winter shelter for unhoused individuals.

Correspondence

Council approved the following requests for resolutions of support for initiatives and grant applications:

• Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA) - Request for Support:
  Council approved a letter be sent to the Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA) in support of its Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) resolution advocating for the establishment of an Indigenous-led, cross-sector housing alliance and to endorse AHMA's advocacy efforts urging the Province of British Columbia to support the continuation of Canada's Urban Native Housing Program beyond its anticipated expiry in 2028.
• ECHEN Request for letter of support - Hall renovation NICHIE Marketing:
  Council approved a letter of support request to ECHEN Healing Society for their application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust Community Development Grants Program for the ECHEN Hall Renovation Project and the Nurturing Indigenous Culture, Heritage and Expression Promotion and Community Awareness Campaign.

Announcements/Events

• The Lhtako Dene Nation Traditional Powwow takes place from July 31 to August 2, 2026, at the Lhtako Dene Nation Pow Wow Grounds.
  Dates & Times: Opens Friday, July 31, 2026, at 5:00 PM and runs through Sunday, August 2, 2026.
• The 8th Annual Touch A Truck event takes place on September 19, 2026, hosted by the Quesnel & District Child Development Centre.

Encouraging food processing in the Agricultural Land Reserve

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

The Province is leading a six-week engagement with B.C.’s agricultural and food-processing industry, local governments and First Nations on a proposal to expand food-processing opportunities in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) that will help strengthen food security, support farmers and attract new investment.

At a time of significant trade uncertainty with Canada’s neighbours to the south and with global conflicts that are disrupting traditional supply chains, it is more important than ever to strengthen food security in B.C.

Supporting food security, farming and the food economy

The proposal aims to encourage more food processing in the ALR on land that is not well suited for primary production, while protecting prime farmland in B.C. and protecting and strengthening the ALR’s primary purpose of agricultural production.

The proposed regulatory change would allow food processors to build food-processing plants on Class 5-7 soil (and Class 4 if the parcel is serviced by the date this rule is implemented) in the ALR, so long as 5% of the primary product used in the processing is grown or raised in the province.

The discussion paper with more information on the proposed changes is available here: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Food_Processing_ALR_Discussion_Paper.pdf

The soil classification condition in this proposal would exclude about 90% of ALR farmland in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley, with 500-1,000 hectares expected to be potentially available for food-processing development.

The proposal intends to connect food processing in the ALR with farming in the ALR, creating new markets for farmers and driving more investment back to B.C. growers.

Soil testing and local government support required

Those seeking to build new food-processing facilities would require an assessment from a registered professional agrologist to ensure the soil classification meets the criteria and need to meet building and any other permits from local governments and the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship and the Ministry of Environment and Parks.

The current regulation allows processing on the ALR (without Agricultural Land Commission approval) if 50% of the ingredients are from the farm in question or from fellow member farms of an industry association and does not consider soil quality as a factor. The 50% rule would remain in place on all other land in the ALR.

Feedback is invited from interested parties until Sept. 3, 2026, by email to AF.Minister@gov.bc.ca

Getting hands-on carpentry training in Williams Lake

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

People in Williams Lake will have new opportunities to train for careers in the skilled trades through a Carpentry Foundation Program delivered by Xatśūll First Nation.

Through funding provided by the Government of Canada under the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement, the Province is investing more than $280,000 to Xatśūll First Nation to support Indigenous Peoples, youth, immigrants and people receiving income assistance who face barriers to employment.

“We want people to have the support they need to find in-demand jobs and build stronger futures for themselves and their families,” said the Hon. Sheila Malcolmson, BC's Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. “That is why we are funding more training to help people gain the practical skills and work experience they need to move into good-paying jobs.”

Building pathways to skilled trades careers

Participants of this full-time program will receive five weeks of skills training, including Indigenous cultural components, Elder and mentor support, traditional building techniques and cultural workshops, followed by 30 weeks of hands-on carpentry training.

“The Carpentry Foundation Program has provided a valuable opportunity for our members and the broader community to gain practical skills, industry exposure and confidence in pursuing careers in the skilled trades,” said Lucas Kiefiuk, director of education, Xatśūll First Nation. “At Xatśūll First Nation, we believe investing in education and workforce development creates long-term benefits for individuals, families, and our Nation. We are grateful for the partnerships that help make these opportunities possible.”

Training for in-demand jobs

This nine-month program, which finishes in March 2027, also includes work experience with local employers and followup support to help participants transition into employment. The training will prepare participants for entry-level positions in carpentry and wood framing, while creating pathways into Level 1 carpentry apprenticeships.

“I’m enjoying this course as I’m a hands-on learner,” said Ashley Pigeon, a participant in the Carpentry Foundation Program. “This course will be very beneficial and I’m excited to learn about carpentry. I would highly recommend this course for anyone willing to learn this trade.”

By combining skills training, employment supports and Indigenous-centred programming, the initiative will help participants build the confidence and experience needed to achieve long-term employment success.

The program supports the Province’s Look West strategy by strengthening B.C.’s workforce and helping people connect to job opportunities in growing sectors, including construction and major projects.

Learn More:

• To learn more about Look West: Jobs and Prosperity for a Stronger BC and Canada, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/look-west-strategy
• For more information about the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement, visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/training-agreements/lmda.html

Cariboo RD Forest Grove Fire Hall - UNOFFICIAL Referendum Results

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

The Cariboo Regional District advises that voting has concluded for the Forest Grove Fire Hall Referendum held on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

The question that was subject of the assent vote (referendum) was: 

“Are you in favour of the Cariboo Regional District adopting:

• Bylaw 5566: to authorize the borrowing of up to $880,000 over 10 years to provide for the renovation of the existing firehall for the Forest Grove Fire Protection Service; and
• Bylaw 5556: to increase the service's annual taxation limit to a maximum of $1.4475/$1,000 of assessed property value or $548,808, whichever is higher?

(This borrowing will result in an estimated total annual parcel tax of $141 per parcel.)”

The unofficial results are as follows:

Yes: 55

No: 66

Based on the unofficial vote count, the referendum has been defeated.

These results are unofficial and remain subject to the official declaration by the Chief Election Officer.

The Cariboo Regional District thanks everyone who took the time to participate in the referendum.

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings | Week of July 27-31, 2026

During the week of July 27-31, 2026 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments will be holding meetings: 

Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda: 

* Delegations -- i) 2026/27 Northstar Interchange Prescribed Fire Proposal: BC Wildfire Service and ii) Quesnel Regional Airport Master Plan: HM Aero Aviation Consulting

* Committee Reports 

* "March with Arch" Campsite Request 

* Letter of Support – Nilhts’i Ecoener Wind Project (near Hixon, BC) 

* City of Quesnel Appointment of Officers and Delegation of Authority Amendment Bylaw No. 1985 of 2026 - First, Second and Third Readings

* Providence Long Term Care and Assisted Living Update

* Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA) - Request for Support

View the full Meeting Agenda here 

100 Mile House -- Meetings noted below to all occur in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House) on Tuesday, July 28, 2026 : 

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

Committee to discuss: 

* Letter from 100 Mile Snowmobile Club re: Off-Road Vehicle Bylaw

* DRAFT Bylaws for Review: Open Burning, Animal Control, In-Line Skates, Skateboards & Scooters and  Maintenance of Property and Nuisance

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) Regular Council Meeting at 5:30pm.  On the Agenda: 

* Request from Branch 260 Royal Canadian Legion Request re: commemorative crosswalk on Birch Avenue at Third Street 

* Adopt 3 Bylaws 

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

View the full Meeting Agenda here

City of Williams Lake Activates Emergency Operations Centre at Level 1 to Support Regional Wildfire Response

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake (City) has activated its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) at Level 1 in response to the Felker Lake wildfire and to support the ongoing emergency response efforts led by the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) and provincial agencies. 

A Level 1 EOC activation allows the City to monitor the situation more closely, coordinate internal resources as needed and support regional emergency management partners. At this time, the activation is precautionary and is intended to ensure the City is prepared to respond should circumstances change.

The City is working closely with the CRD, BC Wildfire Service, emergency services and other partner agencies to share information and support response efforts. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official sources and to be prepared in the event emergency information or alerts are issued.

The City will provide updates and information as it becomes available through its EOC.

Residents are encouraged to monitor official information sources, including:

• BC Wildfire Services
• Cariboo Regional District Emergency Operations Centre
• City of Williams Lake
• EmergencyInfoBC

The City reminds residents to ensure they are registered for VoyentAlert!, the free emergency notification service used to deliver emergency alerts, evacuation information and other important updates. Residents can sign up to receive notifications by mobile app, text message, email or phone call. 

Registration is available through the City’s website at:

http://www.williamslake.ca/999/Emergency-Notification-System

Special Quesnel Council Highlights - July 21, 2026 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

July 21, 2026, Special Open Council Meeting

Temporary Use Permit at 395 Elliott Street Council considered a Temporary Use Permit to allow a temporary winter shelter to operate at 395 Elliott Street. Following discussion, the motion to approve the permit was defeated. Council heard presentations from BC Housing and the Quesnel Shelter and Support Society regarding the shelter's operation from January to April 2026. During that time, the shelter provided overnight accommodation, meals, health and wellness supports, and case planning services. As part of the process, additional public notification was provided through newspaper advertisements, the City's website, and direct mail to nearby property owners. Community feedback included seven letters expressing concerns and twenty three letters expressing support. The City will continue working with community partners and stakeholders toward the development of a long-term shelter strategy for Quesnel.

Strengthening emergency operations centres in Cariboo-Chilcotin

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Editor's Note -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments' or First Nations received funding allocations for their operated Emergency Operations Centres: 

District of Wells -- IT equipment, workstations and training to build EOC infrastructure and staff capacity

Approved amount: $21,316

City of Quesnel -- Connectivity equipment to improve EOC communications and operations

Approved amount: $10,899

Cariboo Regional District -- Technology upgrades and tabletop exercise to strengthen EOC operations

Approved amount: $29,743

Lhtako Dene Nation -- Communications and IT equipment to strengthen EOC connectivity and operations

Approved amount: $30,000

Tsilhqot'in National Government – IT equipment, training and exercise to strengthen EOC infrastructure and staff capacity

Approved amount: $25,600

Xats'ull First Nation – Equipment, supplies and training to build foundational EOC capacity

Approved amount: $14,947

Xeni Gwet'in First Nations – Equipment, supplies, training, maps and incremental staffing to build comprehensive EOC capacity

Approved amount: $30,000

With extreme weather and climate-related events becoming more common, the Province is funding 110 projects throughout B.C. to help local governments and First Nations better respond to emergencies and protect people.

“Emergency operations centres are the backbone of a co-ordinated response when an emergency happens,” said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “This funding will help local governments and First Nations with the equipment, training and exercises they need to run their emergency operations centres effectively, so communities throughout B.C. get the support they need as quickly as possible.”

Co-ordinating response when emergencies happen

Through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, the Province is providing approximately $3.5 million to support local emergency operations centres in 138 communities.

An emergency operations centre (EOC) is where local government and First Nation staff and volunteers direct resources, co-ordinate with other partners and support first responders during an emergency. These centres help ensure that people have access to timely information, emergency support services and other assistance when they need it. This funding will help communities upgrade and strengthen the capacity of local EOCs, improving co-ordination and response during emergencies.

“Continued funding through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund is critical to helping local governments and First Nations maintain strong emergency preparedness and response capacity,” said Cori Ramsay, president, Union of British Columbia Municipalities. “These investments contribute to safer, more resilient communities throughout B.C.”  

Projects funded in 2026 include:

• Kamloops:
  • running a full-scale EOC exercise and ongoing team training, and purchasing supplies and equipment upgrades to strengthen the EOC program
• Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nations:
  • acquiring a portable EOC kit, including supplies and IT equipment, along with orientation and training for EOC staff
• Northern Rockies Regional Municipality:
  • upgrading its mobile EOC trailer with furniture and equipment
• Tsartlip First Nation and Tseycum First Nation:
  • Each acquiring and installing a tsunami alert siren on their respective lands to provide early warning of tsunamis and other emergencies for communities at heightened risk due to their coastal locations near the Juan de Fuca subduction zone

About the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund

The Community Emergency Preparedness Fund is a suite of funding programs that helps local governments and First Nations prepare for disasters and reduce risks from natural hazards in a changing climate.

In addition to emergency operations centres equipment and training, it also funds emergency support services equipment and training, public notification and evacuation route planning, and foundations of disaster risk reduction. This fund is administered through the Union of British Columbia Municipalities.

Quick Facts:

• The Province has committed $369 million through all Community Emergency Preparedness Fund streams since it was established in 2017.
• To date, more than $350 million has been provided to First Nations and local governments for more than 2,800 projects throughout the province.
• This funding supports the goals of the Emergency and Disaster Management Act by building stronger emergency response capacity in communities throughout B.C.

Learn More:

For information about the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, visit: https://www.ubcm.ca/cepf

For more information about the Emergency operation centre operational guidelines, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/public-safety-and-emergency-services/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/local-government/eoc_operational_guidelines.pdf

2026 Tyee Lake Community Association AGM/BBQ

Earlier today -- I attended my 10th Annual Tyee Lake Community Association's AGM/BBQ.  Annual reports from the Association's President/Treasurer/ as well as the Tyee Lake FD Fire Chief were all presented to those in attendance from Tyee Lake... 

In addition, as the local Cariboo RD Area "D" Director, I presented a verbal report as to what I have been up to and my report was received with thanks/gratitude including my announcement that I would be seeking a 4th consecutive elected term this October .... 

Finally: I was able to have wonderful conversations with those at Tyee Lake in attendance.... 

Many thanks to the volunteers of the Tyee Lake Community Association for putting on a wonderful event and always happy to provide an annual $1,000 grant for the Tyee Lake Community Association to help put on this event for Tyee Lake property owners

Special Quesnel Council Meeting - July 21, 2026

On Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 5:30pm -- Quesnel Council will be holding a Special Council Meeting in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel) 

On the Agenda:

Delegations -- i) Quesnel Shelter and Support Society and ii) BC Housing

Business: 

* Administration Report #59/26 - Temporary Use Permit Reconsideration for 395 Elliott Street, Quesnel

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Anticipated Future Meetings of Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments/Boards of Education:

District of Wells Council -- Tuesday, August 11, 2026

City of Williams Lake Council -- Tuesday, August 11, 2026

District of 100 Mile House Council -- Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District/Cariboo Regional District Boards' -- Friday, August 14, 2026

Boards of Education for School Districts' #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) and #28 (Quesnel) -- September 2026 

Conservative Electors Association to run local government candidates in Quesnel/Williams Lake this October?

Earlier this week -- the Conservative Electors Association (not connected to the BC Conservative Party) updated their electoral registration paperwork with Elections BC to include new jurisdictions such as Quesnel/Williams Lake to run candidates under the "Conservative Electors Association" banner in local general elections in BC for Mayors, Councillors, Electoral Area Directors this October... 

The Association has 3 key goals -- 

i) Safer Streets

ii) Lower Taxes

iii) Families First 

More about the Conservative Electors Association on their website at https://www.conservativeassociation.ca/

Meanwhile -- the Conservative Electors Association have plans to run candidates in the Kamloops/Kelowna areas and will announce candidates in September.  More from Castanet Kamloops: https://shrlnk.ca/s/Hv4fNLhh

From a historical perspective -- local voters of the Cariboo-Chilcotin have historically rejected those running as a formal slate for locally elected positions (Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director or School Trustee).  

The one and one time that there was a formal slate was in the 2008 Local Election in the District of 100 Mile House under the "100 MIle First" banner who run 1 Mayoral candidate/4 Councillors candidates and the ENTIRE slate was rejected in favour of those who were running independent campaigns and has NOT been attempted since...

It'll be interesting to see if this new slate effort -- *IF* it is attempted in Quesnel/Williams Lake this October -- has any success or goes down to defeat just like the "100 Mile First" slate initiative of 2008.... 

~SF 

Williams Lake Council Highlights - July 14, 2026 mtg

Present in WL Council Chambers:

Mayor Rathor; Councillors Delainey, Flaspohler, Boehm, 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 

Meeting Video - click here

Meeting Agenda - click here

Meeting Agenda, with 1 Late Item, adopted (Verbal Report of Mayor Rathor re: Minimum Payment of Property Taxes paid by seniors') 

Minutes of the previous Council meeting were received/adopted

Business:

1) Council received or received for information: 

* accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated June 25, July 2 and 9, 2026

* Downloading of Costs Q1 and Q2 2026 Update

* Q2 2026 Budget Status Report

* Minutes of the June 24, 2026 meeting of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee

* Proclamations, Lighting Requests & Flag Raisings as per Council Policy #235

* Council Information Package - as of July 14, 2026

2) Council ratified emails polls, as follows: 

i) Support for WLFN (Williams Lake First Nation) Green Municipal Fund Grant Application

ii) Support for WLFN's (Williams Lake First Nation) NDIT/Northern Development Grant Application

3) Council awarded the Tender for supply of winter sand to Peterson Contracting

for the tendered price of $34.86 per cubic metre, excluding applicable

taxes (GST)

4) Council awarded the tender for supply of dried bulk highway salt to Chances

Bulk Unloading, for a three-year contract, for the tendered price per tonne of: year one $275.80, year two $289.40 and year three $301.28, including applicable taxes

5) Council awarded the contract for CCTV camera inspection and cleaning of approximately 20,888 metres of sanitary sewer mains to C3 Mainline Inspections Inc. for the bid price of $111,541.92, excluding applicable taxes

6) Council received an update on the REDIP/Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program grant status and revised Workforce Recruitment and Retention Program activities plan and approved a contribution of $78,000 over two years in 2027 and 2028 to support

the WRRP or Workforce Recruitment and Retention Program activities

7) Council endorsed 1 recommendation from a recently held Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting, as follows: 

That pursuant to Central Cariboo Joint Committee Report #07-2026, the report of the Director of

Community Services dated June 17, 2026 regarding an update on the Indoor Sport Facility Working Group and June 1, 2026 ISFWG Minutes be received and the Terms of Reference for the Indoor Sport Facility Working Group be endorsed

Editor's Note -- this same recommendation was approved at the July 10, 2026 meeting of the Cariboo Regional District Board of Directors' 

8) Council approved the following Resolution: 

"That the public art installation proposal from the Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society seeking approval from the City, as facility owner, for installation of their proposed "Cariboo Confluence: A Celebration of Place" mural on the exterior facade of the Central Cariboo Arts Centre adjacent to the main entrance facing Borland Street, with the project to commence later in 2026 and be completed over two phases, be received and Council endorse the proposal"

9) Late Item - at request of Mayor Rathor, Council agreed to request a staff report on advocating to the Provincial Government regarding programs for seniors to assist them with paying their property taxes

Members of Council provided verbal reports on their recent activities

Mayor Rathor advised that this would be the last Roundtable session for the 2022-2026 Williams Lake Municipal Council, as per Section 18(3) of the Williams Lake Council Procedure Bylaw, as follows: 

Notwithstanding Section 18(1)(k) (Order of Business at Council Meetings), Roundtable shall not be included as part of any Council (meeting) agendas for the period of three months (90 days) prior to any by-election or general local election of members to the Council (Mayor/Councillor(s))

Proceed to Closed Council Meeting:

At 6:56pm -- Council passed the following motion: 

That Council proceed into a Closed Meeting - following adjournment of the Open Council Meeting - according to Section 92 of the Community Charter for discussion of items

identified under Section 90 (1) or (2), as follows:  

(1c) labour relations or other employee relations 

And then Council adjourned at 6:57pm

Ron Paull to seek a 2nd term as Mayor of Quesnel

Incumbent Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull has publicly declared his intention to seek a 2nd term.  Reasons mentioned for a 2nd term including being Mayor of Quesnel during the City of Quesnel's centennial (100th) anniversary in 2028 ...

More here

He joins incumbent Mayors in Williams Lake (Surinderpal Rathor) and 100 Mile House (Maureen Pinkney) in seeking their own 2nd terms.  Wells Mayor Ed Coleman will not seek re-election in October of 2026 (after being elected in a Wells Mayoral by-election of February of 2022 and subsequently re-elected by acclamation in October of 2022)  

The 4 District of Wells Councillors; the 6 City of Quesnel Councillors; the 4 District of 100 Mile House Councillors, Cariboo RD Directors for Electoral Areas A,B,C,E,F,G,H,I,J,K,L nor have School Trustees in School Districts #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) or School District #28 (Quesnel) have not made public statements (local or social media) on their intentions for the local general elections in October 2026 

Williams Lake Councillors Joan Flaspohler and Jazmyn Lyons have announced on their social media channels that they will not seek re-election in October of 2026 while I have announced my plan to seek a 4th term as the Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area "D" Director 

Former Cariboo RD Area "B" Director from 2011-2014 Heloise Dixon-Warren has announced on social media her full intention to run for the Cariboo RD Area "B" Director position in October of 2026

No other challengers for Mayor, Councillors, Electoral Area Directors or School Trustees in the Cariboo-Chilcotin have made public announcements' (local or social media) in respect of the local general elections in October of 2026

Nomination packages for all locally elected positions (Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director, School Trustee) are expected to be available for pickup in the first half of August 2026 with the formal nomination period being September 1-11, 2026 and General Voting Day for BC Local Governments' being Saturday, October 17, 2026... 

Finally: people can monitor nominations from September 1-11, 2026 in "real-time" through CivicInfo BC's "BC Local Elections" portal at https://localelections.ca/candidates/index_m.html

Maureen Pinkney to seek 2nd term as Mayor of 100 Mile House

Maureen Pinkney -- incumbent Mayor of 100 Mile House told the My Cariboo Now that she wants a 2nd term as 100 Mile House Mayor to complete "unfinished business"....

More here

In other Mayor races in the Cariboo-Chilcotin: 

Wells - Ed Coleman will not seek re-election in October.  More here

Quesnel - Unknown at this time if incumbent Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull will seek a 2nd term

Williams Lake - Surinderpal Rathor will seek a 2nd term as Mayor of Williams Lake - click here

Nomination packages for all locally elected positions (Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director, School Trustee) are expected to be available for pickup in the first half of August 2026 with the formal nomination period being September 1-11, 2026 and General Voting Day for BC Local Governments' being Saturday, October 17, 2026... 

Meetings of Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments | Week of July 13-17, 2026

During the week of July 13-17, 2026 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments' are holding meetings: 

Wells: Regular Council Meetings on Thursday, July 16, 2026 as follows: 

Open Meeting -- 2pm to 4pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue, Wells) and via Zoom.  When available, the full Meeting Agenda can be viewed here

Closed Meeting -- 4:15pm to 5:30pm as per Sections 90(1a + 1L - Appointment and Strategic Planning) of the Community Charter.  View the full Closed Meeting Notice here

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

* Downloading of Costs Q1 and Q2 2026 Update

* Q2 2026 Budget Status Report

* Ratify Email Polls re: Support for WLFN Green Municipal Fund Grant Application and Support for WLFN's NDIT Grant Application

* 3 Tender Awards 

* CCACS "Cariboo Confluence: A Celebration of Place" Mural Proposal - Recommendation to Proceed

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

View the full Meeting Agenda here

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

* Delegation: Rotary regarding beautification 

* Update on 2026 Property Tax collection

* Bylaw Officer's Report for June 2026

* FireSmart Report for June 2026

* Horse Lake Rd Multi-path project - apply for grant and tender award

* Closed Council Meeting: Section 90(2b ii - confidential negotiations between the municipality and another local government or between another local government and a third party) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Anticipated Future Meetings of other Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments'/Boards' of Education not meeting during the week of July 13-17, 2026:

Quesnel - Special Meeting on July 21, 2026 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers

SD27/School District #27 Board of Education - September 2026 (unless special meeting called sooner in July/August 2026)

SD28/School District #28 Board of Education - September 2026 (unless special meeting called sooner in July/August 2026)

Cariboo RD/Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Boards' - August 14, 2026 at 9:30am/9:45am

Cariboo RD Board Highlights - July 10, 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, E. Coleman, R. Paull, SPS Rathor and M. Pinkney 

Meeting called to order at 9:45am

Meeting Agenda adopted, as amended (add Discussion of Suspension of Director Roundtable for 90 day period before General Voting Day - Dir. Forseth) - click here

Minutes of the previous Board meeting were received/adopted

Delegations - starting at 11:00am:

1) Curtis Berthelot, P.Eng., President - PSI Group of Companies appeared before the Board on PSI's high level business expansion plans in the region..

2) Percy Guichon, CEO - Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd, and Daniel Persson, RPF, appeared before the Board to provide an update on the wildfire risk mitigation efforts of the Palmer Project. CCR is a joint venture of Tsideldel First Nation, Tl'etinqox Government, and Yunesit'in Government

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

The Chair thanked each delegation for their time/information...

Business:

1) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to Williams Lake Fringe Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5571, 2025 as well as Williams Lake Fringe and 150 Mile House Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5572, 2025 and setting of conditions prior to adoption of Bylaws #5571 and 5572, 2025 - as follows: 

* The applicant must provide a wildfire assessment report prepared by a Registered Professional Forester licensed in BC or equivalent qualified professional for the proposed development, implement the recommendations of the wildfire hazard assessment report, and offer to enter into and enter into a covenant that advises the property owner of the ongoing responsibility to manage their land and building in accordance with the recommendations of the wildfire hazard assessment report.

 

* The applicant offering to enter into and entering into an agriculture covenant to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Cariboo Regional District Agricultural Policy with respect to fencing and buffering of the northern and eastern property line of proposed lot 4.

 

for property at top of Mile 168 Rd in Electoral Area "D"

2) Following a Public Hearing -- the Board granted 3rd Reading to Interlakes Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5549, 2026 and South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5550, 2026 for property at 8649 Boultbee Rd in Electoral Area "L"

3) Following a Public Hearing -- the Board gave 3rd Reading/Adoption to Chilcotin Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5570, 2026 for property at 811 Anahim Lk Airport Rd in Electoral Area "J"

4) The Board dealt with Development Variance Permits, as follows: 

a) Approved DVP #28-2026 for property at 7658 Womack Rd in Electoral Area "L"

b) Deferred for 60 days consideration of DVP #30-2026 for property at 5840 Timothy Lake Rd in Electoral Area "G"

5) The Board passed a Resolution of Concurrence for a Liquor License Application for property at 5398 Timothy Lake Rd in Electoral Area "G" - more here

6) The Board received/approved a $1,000 Year Round Grant for Assistance application from Community Futures Cariboo-Chilcotin for a “Our Future in Agriculture” event in Williams Lake and the Board agreed to divide the grant award between Areas D,E,F,J,K,L Grant for Assistance Funds ($166.66 per Electoral Area)

7) The Board reviewed Information-Only items and following discussion -- the Board agreed to write to BC's Minister of Transportation advising that it concurs with the concerns of the Regional District of Kootenay-Boundary regarding communications between Regional Districts/Ministry of Transportation as well as a letter to the Provincial Government supporting the position of the City of Prince George regarding the reduction of $200 of the BC Homeowners Grant, to commence in 2027 

8) The Board endorsed recommendations from previous Committee or Commission meetings, as follows: 

a) South Cariboo Joint Committee - June 15, 2026 meeting: 

* "That the South Cariboo Recreation Capital Plan be amended to include $20,000 for accessibility improvements at the South Cariboo Recreation Centre with this cost to be covered by savings from the arena puckboard replacement project."

* "That $1.35 million of Cariboo Regional District Community Works Funds be allocated to the outdoor rink multipurpose facility project at the South Cariboo Recreation Centre based on a 45% contribution of the $3 million estimated project cost, which is consistent with the Community Works Fund Prioritization Policy No. 2025-07-31."

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

b) Committee of the Whole - June 18, 2026 meeting: 

That, in order to enhance transparency and accessibility, the Board extend the pilot project for livestreaming Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Cariboo Regional District Board meetings by six months until end of 2026, and further, that during that time staff be directed to investigate options to host recorded meetings online for a defined period of time, in addition to the livestream

c) Central Cariboo Joint Committee - June 24, 2026 meeting: 

“That the report of Stacey Miranda, Director of Community Services, City of Williams Lake dated June 17, 2026 regarding an update on the Indoor Sport Facility Working Group and June 1, 2026 ISFWG Minutes be received and the Terms of Reference for the Indoor Sport Facility Working Group be endorsed.”

d) North Cariboo Joint Committee - July 7, 2026 meeting: 

"That the 2026 North Cariboo Recreation and Parks capital plan be amended to delete the roof repair project at the Arts and Recreation Centre ($150,000) and replace it with a project to repair and upgrade the brine header line at the West Fraser Centre ($92,000)."

Meeting recessed at 10:53am

Meeting resumed at 11:00am 

Delegations starting at 11:00am— see above: 

Business, cont. at 12:00pm:

9) Corporate Bylaws: 

a) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption to Security Issuing (Horse Lake Water) Bylaw No. 5577, 2026

b) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption to Cariboo Regional District Water Services Management Bylaw No. 5580, 2026

c) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption to South Cariboo Regional Airport Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 5581, 2026

10) Directors' Requests: 

a) The Board approved a request of Director E. DeVries (Area "L") for up to $2,000 from the Area "L" Director Initiative Fund to host a public meeting in Electoral Area "L" at Interlakes Community Centre on Wednesday, July 15th, 2026 from 6:30pm - 8:00pm to discuss Bylaw Enforcement and Zoning issues in the Deka Lake area…. 

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Directors Forseth and Wagner (Areas “D” and “H”) 

b) The Board received a report of Chair Wagner outlining her recent activities on behalf of the Cariboo Regional District for the period ending July 10, 2026

c) On a proposal of Director S. Forseth (Area "D"): the Board rejected, by a tie vote, to suspend Directors' Roundtable until the conclusion of the 2026 Cariboo Regional District Local General Elections in October 2026 

Affirmative (8) - Directors Audet, Massier, Forseth, LeBourdais, Pare, DeVries, Paull and Rathor (Areas A,C,D,F,J,L, Quesnel and Williams Lake)

Negative (8) - Directors Bachmeier, Neufeld, Richmond, Wagner, Glassford, Anderson, Coleman, Pinkney (Areas B,E,G,H,I,K; Wells and 100 Mile House 

Meeting recessed at 12:18pm for lunch

Meeting resumed at 1:00pm

Closed Board Session:

At 1:00pm -- the Board recessed its' Open Meeting to hold a Closed (In-Camera) Session, as per Sections 92 + 90(g, i + k - litigation, legal advice and negotiations) of the Community Charter 

Resumption of Open Board Session:

At 1:43pm -- the Board resumed its Open Meeting 

Directors provided verbal reports on activities within Electoral Areas or Municipalities 

And then the Board adjourned at 2:03pm