West Fraser announces production capacity reductions at its' Fraser Lake, Quesnel and Williams Lake plants

Courtesy of West Fraser:

West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. ("West Fraser" or the "Company") (TSX and NYSE: WFG) announced today it is permanently curtailing approximately 170 million board feet of combined production at its Fraser Lake and Williams Lake sawmills and approximately 85 million square feet of plywood production at its Quesnel Plywood mill.  The curtailments will be realized through the elimination of one shift at each facility.

The reduction in capacity is expected to impact 77 positions at Fraser Lake Sawmill, 15 positions at Williams Lake Lumber, and 55 positions at Quesnel Plywood and will occur over the course of the fourth quarter of 2022.  The Company expects to mitigate the impact on effected employees by providing work opportunities at other West Fraser operations.

Access to available timber is an increasing challenge in British Columbia and ongoing transportation constraints have impaired the Company’s ability to reliably access markets.  These capacity reductions are necessary to better align West Fraser’s operating capacity with available timber and transport availability.

Cell phone coverage expanded in the Wells area

Courtesy of the Goverment of BC:

Cellular coverage is available for the community of Wells, northwest of Barkerville, bringing safer driving conditions to that section of Highway 26 and the Jack-of-Clubs rest area.

“For people in remote and rural areas, cellular coverage is critical for safety – especially when you’re on the road,” said the Hon. Lisa Beare, BC's Minister of Citizens’ Services. “With the installation of new cellular infrastructure, residents of Wells and travellers along this stretch of Highway 26 are able to stay connected and have access to emergency 911 services and other services via mobile connectivity.”

Cellular coverage means the community of Wells and people travelling along the six-kilometre stretch of Highway 26 in the Cariboo will have access to voice, data and emergency 911 services.

“These improvements in our cellular infrastructure will benefit not only the businesses and residents of Wells, but the tens of thousands of visitors to our regional anchor tourism destinations of Barkerville Historic Town and Bowron Lakes Provincial Park,” said John Massier, Director of Electoral Area "C" and Vice-Chair, Cariboo Regional District.

The Province has invested as much as $883,000 through the Connecting British Columbia program, administered by the Northern Development Initiative Trust, for a total project cost of as much as $980,000. Telus Communications Inc. contributed as much as $98,000.

“Telus is committed to ensuring everyone can thrive in our digital world, no matter where they live,” said Tony Geheran, executive vice-president and chief operations officer, Telus. “We are proud to work alongside the Province to bring wireless connectivity to rural and Indigenous communities across B.C., equipping residents and businesses with the speeds and coverage they need to connect to the people and information that matter the most. More critically, over the past decade, Telus has connected more than 500 kilometres of Highway 16 between Prince Rupert and Prince George, bringing coverage to more than 78% of the highway and making travel safer for residents and visitors across northern B.C.”

The Province’s investment is part of the StrongerBC initiative under B.C.’s Economic Recovery Plan to build back a strong economy with a focus on inclusive growth for all communities.

In March 2022, the Province partnered with the federal government to provide as much as $830 million to expand high-speed internet services to the remaining rural and First Nations communities that are underserved.

The plan to connect every household in B.C. to high-speed internet by 2027 will level the playing field for British Columbians and ensure every community has better access to jobs, education, training and health care.

Learn More:

Connectivity in B.C.: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/connectivity-in-bc

Northern Development Initiative Trust: https://www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca/funding-programs/partner-programs/connecting-british-columbia/

StrongerBC: BC's Economic Plan: https://strongerbc.ca/plan

Surinderpal Rathor 2022 Mayoral Campaign Launch BBQ

This past Saturday evening -- the 2022 Elect Surinderpal Rathor for Williams Lake Mayor campaign team held their 2022 City of Williams Lake Mayoral Campaign Launch BBQ in the backyard of the home of former 1993-2014 Williams Lake City Councillor Surinderpal Rathor as he launches his 3rd consecutive bid for Mayor of Williams Lake

At the height of the event -- there were some 40 -50 supporters in attendance.  After enjoying wonderful hamburgers/hot dogs with refreshments which were all donated for the event, they then heard from the 2022 Elect Surinderpal Rathor for Williams Lake Mayor campaign team as well as 2022 Williams Lake Mayoral candidate Surinderpal Rathor (video below)

There are currently two candidates seeking the position of Mayor of Williams Lake -- Surinderpal Rathor and incumbent Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb.  The official nomination period to seek this position runs from August 30th - September 9th, 2022 with General Voting Day in the City of Williams Lake set for Saturday, October 15th, 2022

Rathor Mayoral Campaign website launched!

Earlier this week - the Surinderpal Rathor for Williams Lake Mayor campaign launched their website which you can view here.  Meanwhile - they are also on Facebook (click here) and Instagram (click here)

Williams Lake City Councillor candidate Micheal Moses is also on the web (click here) as well as Instagram (click here) and Facebook (click here)

Expect as the incumbent Mayor/Councillors of Williams Lake City Council make their determinations, as to whether or not they'll seek another term or not this October (Walt Cobb has already announced a bid for a 3rd consecutive term however the 6 Williams Lake City Councillors have not publicly revealed their plans yet) -- that they too will ramp up their online presence likely in September - as the local election to Williams Lake City Council (Mayor/Councillors) kicks into high gear on the way to the October 15th Local General Election... 

SF 

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of August 8-12, 2022

For the week of August 8-12, 2022 -- only 100 Mile House Municipal Council and the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District/Cariboo Regional District Boards' are holding meetings this week

District of Wells & Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake Municipal Councils' are still on summer recess and will resume their meetings the week of August 15-19, 2022

Finally - the Boards' of Education for School Districts' #27/#28 (Cariboo-Chilcotin/Quesnel) will resume their meetings in mid to late September

For 100 Mile House Municipal Council: Meeting to occur on August 9th at 7pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue) - On the Agenda:

* Bylaw Officer's Report for July 2022

* 2022 WWTP Upgrade(s) Project – Sludge Removal

* 2022 Property Tax Collection Report

* Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 1392-2022 (Consideration of 3rd Reading)

* Fees & Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 1395-2022 (Consideration of Adoption)

* Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 1393-2022 (Consideration of 1st/2nd Readings)

* Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 1394-2022 (Consideration of 1st/2nd Readings)

View the full Agenda here

For Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District (CCRHD) Board: Meeting to occur on August 12th at 9:30am in the Cariboo Regional District's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (NH – GR Baker General X-Ray Replacement) Bylaw No. 200, 2022 (Consideration of 3 Readings/Adoption)

* Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (NH – GR Baker Lab Chemistry Analyzers Replacement) Bylaw No. 199, 2022  (Consideration of 3 Readings/Adoption)

* Consent Calendar (CCRHD)

* CCRHD Quarterly Report Q2 2022 (City of Quesnel Healthcare Recruitment/Retention)

* Deferred motion regarding hospice services funding

View the full Agenda here

For Cariboo Regional District Board: Meeting to occur on August 12th, following adjournment of the CCRHD Board Meeting, also being held in the Cariboo Regional District's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Lorne Doerksen re: General Update

* Land Use Matters

* UBCM 2022 CEPF – EOC and Training – Successful Application

* Cariboo Regional District 2022 Second Quarter Financial Reports

* Consent Calendar (Cariboo RD) 

* Corporate Bylaws for 3 Readings and Adoption -- Forest Grove Legion Property Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 5406, 2022 and South Cariboo Recreation Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 5407, 2022

* Request from Director M. Sjostrom (Area "A") re: Allocation of Covid19 Smart Restart funds to purchase of training equipment for use in the Red Bluff Firehall

* Closed Board Session (In-Camera) as per Section 90(1a + c -- appointment/labour) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

Northern Development News - August 4th, 2022 edition

1) July 2022 Northern Development Newsletter - click here

2) 5 Grants totalling roughly $1,000,000 to support NDIT Communities

$300,000 was approved under the Recreation Infrastructure program for the Village of Fraser Lake curling rink upgrade. This project entails a complete overhaul of the facility including new refrigeration piping and headers, upgraded windows, the replacement of the sand floor with a concrete slab, new water repellant wall surfaces, energy efficient LED lighting and a full lobby makeover, along with various other improvements. With these upgrades complete, the rink can be opened to off-season sports such as pickleball and floor hockey and can provide community space for groups (community meetings, weddings and funerals) to use.

$300,000 was approved under the Economic Infrastructure program to the Fort St. John Seed Cleaning Cooperative Association for plant improvements. This project involves the purchase and installation of a state-of-the-art Cimbria SEA Optical Sorter, Chromex Colour Sorter, Cimbria Heid Gravity Separator, Cimbria Delta Model 107 Super Cleaner and the required associated equipment. With the addition of this equipment the plant will be able to efficiently clean unwanted seeds and foreign objects from all grains, cereal crops, seeds and pulses. The addition will also create a significant increase in capacity and throughput, which will allow the plant to clean more seed and in turn, help more farmers in the surrounding areas.

$200,000 was approved under the Northern Housing Incentive program for the Village of McBride to incentivize a multi-phased development in the community. The project entails the construction of twenty, two-bedroom rental suites in duplexes and quadplexes on 2nd Avenue. These are independent living suites targeted towards seniors. Each unit will be approximately 800 sq ft, house two bedrooms and provide ground level exterior entry. Construction will be in phases beginning in 2022 and fully complete in 2024.

$145,627 was approved under the Economic Infrastructure program for the Xat’sull hydroponic vertical farm. This project involves the purchase and installation of a commercial hydroponics growing system on the Xat’sull First Nation. This year-round operation will provide food security to the community, promote food sovereignty and provide a platform for health/nutrition education in addition to creating employment and training opportunities for community members. The greenhouse will also generate revenues for the Nation from the retail sales of the produce grown.

$137,607 was approved under the Cultural Infrastructure program for the Knox music hall development project in Prince George. The project consists of redeveloping Trinity Downtown into a professional-level music performance venue for a wide variety of performing arts and live events – accessible to a wide range of users and community groups. The space will hold 250-300 people for ticketed events. This is phase one of a multi-phased project and includes updating the in-floor heating system to facilitate the removal of pews and shift to adaptable chair seating, installing professional sound equipment and LED DMX controlled lighting, stage drapery and partial roof replacement.

Joel McKay - CEO of Northern Development stated:

"“These latest projects really reflect the vision of the Trust to establish the North as a place that people want to live, work and play in. Investments in housing, the arts, food security, agricultural and community infrastructure play a huge role in retaining and attracting residents.”

Joint Initiative Between the Williams Lake First Nation and Scout Island Nature Centre Leads to New Signage

Courtesy of the Williams Lake First Nation:

Visitors to Scout Island will notice a new sign that has been installed near the Nekw7usem Bridge located in the heart of Williams Lake. 

This is the beginning of a joint initiative between the Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) and the Scout Island Nature Centre to develop and display Indigenous knowledge and content on Scout Island. In collaboration between the two partners, signs will continue to be installed throughout the upcoming months at Scout Island. 

These signs are to bring awareness to those using the trails about wildlife, plants and the environment of Scout Island, through an Indigenous lens. 

“WLFN is thrilled to be working collaboratively with the Scout Island Nature Centre. WLFN believes it is important to educate the public on indigenous plants and animals, and what better place to do that then Scout Island” states Kukpi7 (Chief ) Willie Sellars. “

The Centre is excited to be working with the Williams Lake First Nation to bring additional information to the public about indigenous knowledge of plants and animals. He says they have received several requests from the public for this information and look forward to building it into their nature education programs and signage” states Ordell Steen, a Scout Island Nature Centre Director

What's in the #CaribooRD Candidate Nomination Package

Earlier today - I picked up my candidate nomination package to get ready to file the appropriate paperwork in order to launch my re-election bid for a 3rd term as the Cariboo Regional District's Electoral Area "D" Director.  I can file the paperwork as of Tuesday, August 30th, 2022 at 9am

Also earlier today -- I did a "Facebook Live" video exploring what is in the Cariboo Regional District's Candidate Nomination Package.  See that video below:

2022 Candidate Nominations Packages available from Williams Lake, 100 Mile House, Cariboo RD

Starting today (August 2nd, 2022) -- those who wish to run for Mayors'/Councillors' on Williams Lake or 100 Mile House Municipal Councils' or for Electoral Area Director for Areas "A" to "L" (12) on the Cariboo Regional District Board can pick up their Candidate Nomination Package from the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy from the City of Williams Lake, District of 100 Mile House or the Cariboo Regional District

For more information:  

1) Williams Lake --- https://www.williamslake.ca/562/Election-2022

2) 100 Mile House -- http://100milehouse.com/government-bylaws/local-elections

3) Cariboo Regional District -- https://www.cariboord.ca/en/regional-government/elections-and-assent-voting.aspx

For those in Quesnel -- you can pick up your candidate nomination package if you wish to run for Quesnel Mayor or City Councillor on Wednesday, August 17th and there is a Candidate  Information Session for those wishing to run for Quesnel Mayor/Councillor in October at 4:30pm on Tuesday, August 16th in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  

For more information -- https://www.quesnel.ca/city-hall/elections/2022-local-government-elections

For those in Wells or School Districts' #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) or #28 (Quesnel) -- there is no current information about when one can pick up their candidate nomination package but it is reasonable to expect that they will be available later in August and prior to the statutory required candidate nomination period of August 30th to September 9th, 2022.  Fully completed candidate nomination forms for running for office in Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments' or Boards of Education (SD27 or SD28) can NOT be filed with the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy prior to August 30th and after September 9th

A reminder that to run for local elected office in British Columbia -- you have to:

* Be at least 18 years of age on general voting day (October 15,2022)
* Be a Canadian citizen
* Have been a resident of British Columbia for six months immediately prior to filing nomination documents; and
* Not be disqualified under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from being nominated for, being elected to or holding the office, or be otherwise disqualified by law

If you work for either a local government/school district or provincial/federal governments or other employer  -- you will want to check in with your supervisor or HR person before submitting a locally elected office nomination for local government or School Districts #27/28  as there may be additional requirements including taking a leave from your work position and subsequently resigning from your job, if elected...

You can be disqualified from running for local office in British Columbia - if the following applies:

Have been convicted of and sentenced for an indictable offence and are in custody

Have been found guilty of an election offence, such as intimidation or vote-buying, and are prohibited from holding office

Are judges of the Provincial Court, Supreme Court or Court of Appeal

Are involuntarily confined to a psychiatric facility or other institution

Have been disqualified for specified reasons such as failing to: 

• File a candidate disclosure statement in a previous election
• Make an oath of office
• Attend local government meetings in the manner and frequency required by the Community Charter

Been disqualified under the Local Government Act or any other enactment from voting in an election in British Columbia or from being nominated for, being elected to or holding the office, or be otherwise disqualified by law

Just on the point of not filing your required campaign disclosure form with Elections BC from the previous local general election -- Ms. Robyn Angus who ran for School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) Trustee for Zone 2 (Lac La Hache - 108 Mile) in the 2018 School District #27 General Local Election (source here) did not do so, as required by provincial law and is now legally prevented from seeking local elected office until the October 2026 Local General Election

Websites that can be accessed for further details:

1) District of Wells - website here 

2) City of Quesnel - website here

3) City of Williams Lake - website here

4) District of 100 Mile House - website here

5) Cariboo Regional District - website here

6) School District #28 (Quesnel) - website here

7) School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - website here

Finally - if you still had questions or concerns about the 2022 Local General Election in regards to running as an candidate -- you can directly contact the local Chief Election Officer for the local government or Board of Education that you are interested in running for - as follows:

1) District of Wells -- Donna Forseille.  Ph: 250-994-3330 or clerk@wells.ca

2) City of Quesnel -- Rhya Hartley.  Ph: 250-992-2111 or rhartley@quesnel.ca

3) City of Williams Lake - Ross Coupe.  Ph: 250-392-2311 or rcoupe@williamslake.ca

4) District of 100 Mile House - Sheena Elias.  Ph: 250-395-2434 or selias@100milehouse.com

5) Cariboo Regional District - Alice Johnston.  Ph: 250-392-3351 or ajohnston@cariboord.ca

6) School District #28 (Quesnel) - Jennifer Woollends.  Ph: 250-992-8802 or JenniferWoollends@sd28.bc.ca

7) School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Harinder Singh.  Ph: 250-398-3800 or jodi.symmes@sd27.bc.ca 

Steve's Meeting/Expense Calendar - July 2022

In the month of July 2022 -- I attended the following meetings or events:

* July 5th -- Attend meeting of the Central Cariboo Arts/Culture Fee for Service Management Committee and then attend monthly meeting of the McLeese Lake Recreation Commission

* July 8th -- Attend meetings of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Cariboo Regional District Boards'

* July 12th -- Attend monthly meeting of the Central Cariboo Arts/Culture Society's Board of Directors' in my capacity as the Cariboo RD's Central Cariboo Director Liaison

* July 14/15 -- Participate in UBCM Executive Orientation in advance of taking the North Central Local Goverment Association's seat on the 2022-23 UBCM Executive Board

* July 16th -- Attend 2022 AGM for the Tyee Lake Community Association at the Tyee Lake Community/Fire Hall

* July 17th -- Attend monthly meeting of the Wildwood Community Association at the Wildwood VFD Fire Hall Training Room

* July 20th -- Attend virtually the Northern BC Solid Waste Working Group Meeting and then chaired a NCLGA Executive Committee meeting

* July 22nd -- Attend Day 1 of the 2022 Cariboo-Chilcotin Metis Association's Annual Jamboree event at the McLeese Lake Community Hall 

* July 27th -- Attended the 2022 AGM and July regular meeting of the McLeese Lake VFD Society at the McLeese Lake Community Hall

* July 28th -- Attend meeting of the Central Cariboo Arts/Culture Fee for Service Management Committee and then attend monthly meeting of the Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce 

In addition to the above, I had weekly check-in phone meetings with the NCLGA Executive Director in my capacity as 2022-23 NCLGA President.  As well, responded to inquiries from Cariboo RD Area "D" residents via phone, email, text, social media

In the month of July 2022 -- I submitted the following expenses:

* July 8th -- $206 to attend meetings of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Cariboo Regional District Boards'

~SF

2022 BC Local Elections Websites (Candidates/Unofficial and Official Results)

For those with interest in BC Local Government Elections this fall...

Civic Info BC (repository of BC Local Government information) has made available 2 websites:

1) List of Candidates for those running for the positions of Mayors, Councillors, Electoral Area Directors' and School Trustees

The website can be accessed at https://bc.localelections.ca/candidates/index_m.html

A reminder that the website will be populated during the formal 2022 Nomination Period of August 30th - September 9th, 2022 so check at end of day daily for those who have filed their completed candidate nomination forms and have been approved as candidates

2) Unofficial Local Government Elections Results, after 8pm on Saturday, October 15th, 2022

The website can be accessed at https://bc.localelections.ca/results/index_m.html

A reminder to please be patient as not every BC Local Government or Board of Education has automated vote counters and may take some time to upload results into this website...

Be prepared for risk of wildfires over the long weekend

Courtesy of the Goverment of BC:

Editor's Note -- today's BC Fire Risk Map as well as the Canada Wildland Fire Information Map both show most of BC at the high, very high or extreme fire risk levels.  You  can access the Canada Wildland Fire Information Map here

Sustained high temperatures throughout British Columbia this week are increasing the potential for wildfires.

Residents, travellers and campers should be prepared for wildfire and heat, to have an emergency plan and to stay informed as conditions change.

The BC Wildfire Service is closely monitoring these changing conditions and making necessary preparations with strategic aviation and crew placements. Of note is the potential for widespread lightning when the current weather pattern changes.  

Wildfire prevention is a shared responsibility. Category 2 and Category 3 open fires are prohibited throughout British Columbia. Campfires are currently permitted within the BC Wildfire Service’s jurisdiction. Escaped campfires can lead to human-caused wildfires, but that does not mean a campfire can’t be enjoyed safely. Patrols will be in place on Crown land.

Anyone found in contravention of an open burning prohibition may be issued a violation ticket for $1,150, required to pay an administrative penalty of up to $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

Local governments and other jurisdictional authorities (e.g. BC Parks) may have their own burning restrictions or bylaws in place. It is important to check with these local authorities before lighting any fire.

Stay informed as conditions change at bcwildfire.ca or through the BC Wildfire Service app.

Between April 1, 2022, and the morning of July 28, 2022, 380 wildfires have burned more than 13,000 hectares in British Columbia. People have caused 52% of those fires. Human-caused fires are completely preventable and may cause the BC Wildfire Service to divert resources away from responding to naturally occurring fires.

Important FireSmart tips for property owners/renters:

• Remove branches, leaves, pine needles and other combustible material from roof, gutters, balconies, doorways, windowsills, etc. Pay particular attention to corners or other tight spots where debris tends to gather.
• Mow any grass within 10 metres of your home regularly, preferably to a height of 10 centimetres or less.
• If you have a deck with a crawlspace beneath it, clear combustibles from there, too.
• Create a 1.5-metre non-combustible zone around buildings by raking and/or sweeping down to mineral soil, rock or concrete.
• Any movable propane tank or wood pile should be kept at least 10 metres away from your home.
• Check all exterior vents to make sure they are properly screened and in good condition.
• Learn more about FireSmart: https://firesmartbc.ca/

Additional fire precautions:

• Anyone riding an all-terrain vehicle on or within 300 metres of forested land or rangeland must have a spark arrestor installed on the vehicle.
• To help reduce wildfire risks, check the condition of the muffler, regularly clear buildups of grass or other vegetation from hot spots, stay on dirt paths and avoid tall grass and weeds.
• Smokers must dispose of cigarette butts and other smoking materials responsibly, ensuring they are completely extinguished.

Be ready to evacuate:

• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• If you are under an evacuation order, it means you must leave the area.
• By not leaving, you risk not only the health and safety of you and your family, but also of first responders who may need to come back to help you.
• Help fire crews keep you and your community safe by following evacuation orders.
• The Province reminds the public to prepare their households for any hazards they may face. This includes making a household plan and thinking about friends and family who may be able to provide shelter and support should an evacuation order be issued. This will help ensure local accommodation is available for those who have no other option.
• E-transfer is now available in many communities for people receiving Emergency Support Services (ESS) after being evacuated and registering with the online Evacuee Registration and Assistance (ERA) tool. People are strongly encouraged to pre-register before an emergency. To be eligible for an e-transfer, people must log in to ERA online with their BC Services card app and register. The BC Services card app is available to download from the Apple and Google app stores.

Heat warnings:

• Monitor Environment and Climate Change Canada for updates about heat warnings and temperature forecasts in your region.
• During heat events, the Province works with health authorities, First Nations and local authorities to protect people and communities.
• First Nations and local authorities in affected areas may open cooling centres to the public. Check with your municipality, regional district or First Nation for the most-up-to-date information.

Preparing for and responding to hot weather:

• If you have air conditioning at home, make sure it is in good working order.
• If you do not have air conditioning at home:
  • Find somewhere you can cool off on hot days. Consider places in your community to spend time indoors, such as libraries, community centres, movie theatres or malls. Also, as temperatures may be hotter inside than outside, consider outdoor spaces with lots of shade and running water.
  • Shut windows and close curtains and blinds during the heat of the day to block the sun and prevent hotter outdoor air from coming inside. Open doors and windows when it is cooler outside to move that cooler air indoors.
  • Ensure that you have a working fan, but do not rely on fans as your primary means of cooling. Fans can be used to draw cooler late-evening, overnight and early-morning air indoors. Keep track of temperatures in your home using a thermostat or thermometer. Sustained indoor temperatures over 31 C can be dangerous for people who are susceptible to heat.
  • If your home gets very hot, consider staying with a friend or relative who has air conditioning if possible.
• Identify people who may be at high risk of heat-related illness. If possible, help them prepare for heat and plan to check in on them. The most susceptible individuals include adults over 60, people with pre-existing health conditions, people with mental illnesses and people with disabilities.

Your health:

• Drink plenty of water and other liquids to stay hydrated, even if you are not thirsty.
• Spray your body with water, wear a damp shirt, take a cool shower or bath or sit with part of your body in water to cool down.
• Take it easy, especially during the hottest hours of the day.
• Stay in the shade and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
• Take immediate action to cool down if you are overheating. Signs of overheating include feeling unwell, headache and dizziness. Overheating can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
• Signs of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, severe headache, muscle cramps, extreme thirst and dark urine. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should seek a cooler environment, drink plenty of water, rest and use water to cool your body.
• Signs of heat stroke include loss of consciousness, disorientation, confusion, severe nausea or vomiting and very dark urine or no urine. Heat stroke is a medical emergency.
• In the event of a medical emergency, call 911. However, it is important to use 911 responsibly to avoid overwhelming the system.
• Never leave children alone in a parked car. Temperatures can rise to 52 C within 20 minutes inside a vehicle when the outside temperature is 34 C. Leaving the car windows slightly open will not keep the inside of the vehicle at a safe temperature.
• Heat also affects pets. Never leave a pet in a parked car. Limit pets’ exercise, and be sure to provide them with plenty of water and shade.

Travelling: Know Before You Go:

• Destination BC’s Know Before You Go web page is regularly updated and serves as a one-stop shop for visitors looking to access key information resources, including DriveBC, the BC Wildfire Service and Emergency Management BC.
• It is important to recognize that British Columbia is a large and diverse province. Many areas are not directly affected and are open for business.
• If the area you were planning to travel to is affected by wildfires or under an evacuation alert or order, connect with a local visitor centre to rebook your trip to another area of the province.
• The River Forecast Centre also asks that anyone planning activities on rivers or waterways check any advisories for high streamflow or other concerns.

Do not take unnecessary risks in the backcountry:

• The public is asked to be mindful of the needs of B.C.’s wildfire response by making a trip plan when hiking and being careful in the backcountry.
• Not only is there a high risk of wildfire throughout the province, there have also been incidents this summer requiring BC Wildfire Service support for the co-ordinated rescues of hikers. These calls require the diversion of helicopters from the fire line and may challenge progress on fire-suppression efforts.
• While aviation resources are being used throughout the province by the BC Wildfire Service, there are processes for these resources to be accessed by search and rescue when they are required.
• The Province thanks recreationalists for reporting fires that they have spotted in backcountry areas and elsewhere.
• To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone or submit a report through the BC Wildfire Service app.
• Anyone found in contravention of an open-burning prohibition may be issued a violation ticket for $1,150, may be required to pay an administrative penalty of up to $10,000 or, if convicted in court, may be fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

Quick Facts:

• Mitigating wildfire risk is a shared responsibility of the provincial government, local governments, First Nations, industry and individual British Columbians.
• The BC Wildfire Service’s official mobile app provides real-time wildfire information and features an interactive map that users can customize to display a variety of wildfire-related data. The app complements the BC Wildfire Service website and is available for Apple (iOS) and Android devices as a free download.

Learn More:

Homeowners can learn how to make their properties more FireSmart by visiting the British Columbia FireSmart website and downloading the FireSmart Begins at Home manual, which includes a risk assessment checklist: https://firesmartbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/FireSmart_Booklet_web-Updated.pdf

BC Wildfire Service Operational Update: https://youtu.be/G4_8upJXJ6I

EmergencyInfoBC:
Web: https://www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/EmergencyInfoBC

Links to highway and road closures, park closures, travel advisories and evacuation alerts: https://www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca/

BC Wildfire Service: www.bcwildfire.ca

BC Wildfire Service mobile app:
Apple (iOS), download directly from the App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bc-wildfire-service/id1477675008?ls=1
Android, download directly from the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=ca.bc.gov.WildfireInformation&hl=en

Open burning prohibitions: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status/fire-bans-and-restrictions

Register for Emergency Support Services (ESS) with the online Evacuee Registration and Assistance (ERA) tool: https://ess.gov.bc.ca/

FireSmart program: www.firesmartbc.ca

Highway and road closures: www.drivebc.ca

Travel advisories:

For travel advisories, visit: https://www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca/travel/

Know Before you Go – ExploreBC: Accommodation, transportation, and experience-provider listings can also be found online: www.hellobc.com/book-your-bc-experience/

For key travel information, visit: www.hellobc.com/know-before-you-go

For guidance on how to stay safe during wildfire smoke events, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/24855

PreparedBC is British Columbia's one-stop shop for disaster readiness information. For tips on seasonal readiness, how to prepare an emergency plan and what to include in an emergency kit, visit: http://preparedbc.ca

Quesnel Council Highlights - July 26th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

July 26, 2022 Regular Council Meeting

 

Delegation - Accessory Dwelling Units Tony Osborn Architecture & Design Inc. was contracted by the City to prepare pre-approved accessory dwelling unit designs.  Council was presented with five designs, including two carriage homes and three secondary dwellings.  The designs meet Step Code 3 energy efficiency and simplify and expedite a no-hassle permit ready building process.  This will net 15 - 20% savings for developers, saving architectural, structural engineering and building permit fees.

 

Development Services Update Council approved extending public consultation on the new New Floodplain Management Bylaw and directed Staff to bring a report to the September 27 Council meeting. Council approved Development Permit 2022-45 for the construction of three single detached dwellings on STRATA LOTS 14, 38 and 39 DISTRICT LOT 1122 CARIBOO DISTRICT PLAN PGS217 (Dyke Road), pending subjects. Council approved Development Permit 2022-46 for the construction of a three storey three-plex rental on LOT 11 BLOCK 18 TOWN OF QUESNEL PLAN 17000, EXCEPT PLAN 17507 (Reid Street), subject to landscape bonding in the amount of 125% of the estimated cost. Council approve Development Permit 2022-47 for the development of a 20 unit residential development on LOT A DISTRICT LOT 3948 CARIBOO DISTRICT PLAN 29374 EXCEPT PLAN EPP110178 (Westland Road), pending subjects.\ Council approved varying Section 34.3.5 (a) Zoning Bylaw No. 1880, 2019 to permit to reduce the principal building’s front setback to 4.1m. on LOT 1 BLOCK 1 DISTRICT LOT 704 CARIBOO DISTRICT PLAN 6719 (420 Webster Ave).:

Revitalization Plans - Davie Street & North Fraser Drive Landing A second round of consultations will be completed between August 8th to August 19th to obtain community and stakeholder input on the Davie Street and North Fraser Drive Landing revitalization plans. Consultation will be completed as follows: A survey for each project will be available on Let's Connect Quesnel (letsconnectquesnel.ca) for residents to provide feedback and answer question. Surveys will also be available at City Hall or can be requested through email, and notices will be sent out to residents in the North Fraser Dr. area; Stakeholders will be contacted directly via email to participate in the surveys; The City website will be updated with links to the Let’s Connect project pages; The plans will be advertised on both social media platforms; and An email blast is to go out to all Let’s Connect subscribers.

 

Spirit Centre Lease Council approved the lease renewal of a portion of the Spirit Centre to the Quesnel Downtown Association.

Correspondence Council provided a resolution of support for the North Cariboo Seniors' Council grant application to the Age Friendly Communities Grant Program for development of the Co-Living Project to help support Quesnel's senior population live independently through a co-living model of housing.

 

Bylaws Bylaw 1927 - City of Quesnel Political Campaign Sign Amendment Bylaw 1927, 2022 - First Three Readings  Bylaw 1917 - City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1917 of 2022 (Gook Road) - Third Reading

Announcements August 4, 2022 -  10th Anniversary of the West Quesnel Night Market August 6, 2022 - 830 am - 430 pm - Lewis Drive - North Cariboo Seniors' Council and Literacy Quesnel are hosting a used bike sale  September 7, 2022 - Rotary Club Seniors trip to Barkerville - SIGN UP by August 15th