Cariboo Regional District Board Highlights - May 29, 2026 mtg

Present:

Chair M. Wagner; Directors N. Audet, B. Bachmeier, J. Massier, S. Forseth, M. Neufeld, 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 9:54am

Meeting Agenda adopted - click here

Minutes of the previous Board meeting were received/adopted

Delegation - 11:30am:

Jason Fisher, RFP, Executive Director of the Forest Enhancement Society of BC appeared before the Board to provide an update on FESBC projects in the region

Following the presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair thanked Mr. Fisher for his time/information

Business:

1) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to Quesnel Fringe Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5573, 2026 and required adoption of Bylaw 5573, 2026 be subject to: 

* The applicant applying for and receiving a Highway 97 Corridor Development Permit for the proposed new building

Area A/1250 Chew Rd 

2) The Board approved a Development Variance Permit for property at 1387 Maple Drive in Electoral Area "A"

3) The Board received/ratified the Monthly Expenditures Board Summary Report and Mastercard Summary Report for the month of April 2026, in the amount of $2,785,356.06

4)  The Board received an update from the Invasive Plants Coordinator regarding advocacy for mitigating Invasive Plant spread in the Cariboo-Chilcotin and directed Staff prepare a 2027 NCLGA Resolution on the topic of stopping the sale/importation of invasive plants in BC 

Meeting recessed at 10:57am

Meeting resumed at 11:25am

Delegation — see above 

Meeting recessed for lunch at 11:48am

Meeting resumed at 12:30pm

5) The Board discussed Meeting Requests for Provincial Ministry or Agency Staff and Ministers via virtual means at the 2026 Union of BC Municipalities Convention and the Directors’ provided input to Staff for meeting requests at UBCM (Ministers or Ministry/Agency Staff) 

6) The Board received a request from the North Central Local Government Association regarding joint advocacy for a review of publicly funded mental health and agreed to support the request 

7) The Board received a request from the Regional District of Fraser Fort George regarding Co-Sponsorship of its' UBCM Resolutions on Food Security and Foreign Ownership of Farm Lands  and agreed to their request 

8) The Board received its' Information-Only items and following discussion -- 

i) The Board agreed to write a letter to the City of Abbotsford endorsing their UBCM Resolution regarding PST Expansion 

ii) The Board agreed to write a letter to the Province of BC to support the request of the District of Saanich to restore funding of the Local Government Climate Action Program 

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Directors B. Anderson and E. DeVries (Areas K/L) 

9) The Board endorsed recommendations from its' Committees or Commissions, as follows: 

a) South Cariboo Joint Committee -- May 11, 2026 meeting: 

* That the 2026 South Cariboo Recreation budget and capital plan be amended to allocate up to $15,000 towards replacement of the vehicle gate at the 100 Mile Soccer Park and that staff work with the 100 Mile House and District Soccer Association on a preferred design

* The following South Cariboo Joint Committee recommendation was referred back to South Cariboo Joint Committee for reconsideration — 

That the outdoor rink project be deferred until full project funding is secured and public engagement has taken place to confirm community support.

Closed Board Meeting:

At 1:03pm -- the Board recessed its' Open Meeting to hold a Closed Meeting as per Section 90(f+g - law enforcement + potential/actual litigation) of the Community Charter

Resumption of Open Meeting:

At 2:30pm -- the Board resumed its' Open Meeting 

Business, cont:

b) North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus -- May 19, 2026 meeting: 

* That $2,000 from the 2026 North Cariboo Economic Development budget be provided to the Gold Rush Cycling Club, in support of the May 20-22, 2026 BC High School Mountain Bike Championships, as per the approved business plan goal to support conferences and events as important tourism opportunities

* That $1,500 be provided to the North Cariboo Agricultural Marketing Association from the 2026 North Cariboo Economic Development function budget

* That the proposed contribution agreement with the City of Quesnel for Cemetery Services be renewed for a three-year term in the amount of $50,000 annually for operating costs and a 50% cost share for capital costs. Further, that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreement.

And then the Board adjourned at 2:40pm 

Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board Highlights - May 29, 2026 mtg

Present: 

Chair A. Richmond/Vice Chair J. Massier and Directors Audet, Bachmeier, Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais, Wagner, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Coleman, Paull, Pinkney and Smith 

Meeting called to order at 9:30am

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

Meeting Agenda adopted - click here

Minutes of the previous CCRHD Board Meeting were adopted

Business:

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

Closed Board Session:

At 9:37am -- the Board recessed its' Open Meeting to hold a Closed Session as per Sections 90(1e/j - land and information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter

Meeting resumed at 9:53am

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

Meeting recessed at 9:54am

Meeting resumed at 11:01 am 

Delegation:

Representatives from the Cariboo Memorial Hospital Foundation were in attendance to speak to a funding request

Following their presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued 

The Chair thanked the delegation for their time/information 

And then the Board adjourned at 11:24am

Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - May 28, 2026 mtg

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

Meeting called to order at 3:00pm

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

Meeting Agenda adopted with late items - 2026 Canada Day event in Williams Lake and Williams Lake Stampede (Future Funding Support from Regional District) 

Minutes of the previous Caucus meeting were adopted

Business:

Caucus discussed the following items: 

* Williams Lake First Nation: Annual 2026 Pow Wow Sponsorship Letter

* Williams Lake/Central Cariboo Victim Services Annual Report for year ending December 31, 2025 

* Williams Lake Fringe Fire Protection 

* Williams Lake Stampede - Future Funding Support from Cariboo Regional District 

* 2026 Canada Day event in Williams Lake - invitation to Cariboo Regional District

Following discussions, Caucus made the the following recommendations to the Cariboo Regional District Board: 

That a $2,000 sponsorship be approved from the COVID-19 Safe Restart Fund/First Nation Reconciliation line for the Williams Lake First Nation Annual 2026 Traditional Pow Wow on June 19-21, 2026 

And then Caucus adjourned at 3:50pm

TRU and City of Williams Lake commit to a shared future for post-secondary education in the Cariboo-Chilcotin Region

Courtesy of Thompson Rivers' University:

Thompson Rivers University (TRU) and the City of Williams Lake have signed a Letter of Understanding (LoU) that marks a significant step forward in their shared commitment to ensuring strong, sustainable access to post-secondary education and training across the Williams Lake region.

The agreement affirms a common public purpose: to work together to support student success, address workforce and community needs, and promote long-term regional vitality through accessible, high-quality education and training.

Rooted in a longstanding relationship between TRU and the Cariboo Chilcotin region, the LoU reflects a forward-looking approach — one that recognizes both the opportunities and challenges facing post-secondary education in British Columbia today, and the need for collaborative, innovative solutions.

“This agreement reflects the strength of our partnership with the City of Williams Lake and Mayor Rathor’s leadership,” said TRU President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Airini. “We are grateful for the City’s commitment to working alongside TRU with a shared focus on students, community, and opportunity. Together, we are taking important steps that further strengthen access by learners in the Williams Lake region to relevant, high-quality and sustainable post-secondary education — now and into the future.”

“Access to post-secondary education is important to the long-term strength and vitality of our region,” said Mayor Surinderpal Rathor, City of Williams Lake. “The City values its long-standing relationship with TRU and is committed to working collaboratively to support students, strengthen regional opportunities and help ensure residents continue to have access to education and training close to home.”

As a first step under the LoU, TRU and the City are working together on the design of an inclusive regional engagement process to help reimagine post-secondary education in the Williams Lake region. This work will ensure that students, school districts, Indigenous Nations and communities, local governments, employers and regional partners have meaningful opportunities to shape future education and training pathways.

The LoU outlines a shared commitment to:

a) Maintain student-centred decision-making, ensuring continuity and clear pathways through any transition

b) Advance a collaborative planning process (2026–2028) to reimagine post-secondary education for learners in the Williams Lake region

c) Support ongoing access to post-secondary education and training, aligned with community and workforce needs

d) Explore opportunities for partnerships with other post-secondary institutions to strengthen regional access

e) Work in accordance with provincial requirements to ensure that lands and facilities associated with the Williams Lake campus continue to be used for educational purposes

f) Strengthen relationships with communities and Indigenous partners, recognizing their leadership and role in shaping future education and training opportunities for learners in the Williams Lake region.

TRU is recruiting for fall 2026 and winter 2027 programming at TRU Williams Lake. Skilled Trades Education programs and the unique Regenerative Agriculture program have strong support.  Places are available for the Practical Nursing diploma. TRU and the City of Williams Lake are collaborating actively to promote these opportunities and encourage Williams Lake learners to apply.

TRU has served the Williams Lake and Cariboo Chilcotin region for more than 50 years and will continue to do so into the future. While program delivery models may evolve over time, both TRU and the City are aligned in their objective: ensuring that post-secondary education and training continue to support learners, communities and local economies across the Williams Lake region.

Both organizations emphasized the importance of collaboration and partnership as planning progresses, and the vital role of education in building strong, resilient communities.

Central Cariboo Joint Committee Highlights - May 27, 2026 mtg

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

Present from City of Williams Lake: Mayor SPS Rathor (Committee Co-Chair); Councillors M. Moses and S. Nelson

Meeting Chair: Director M. Neufeld

Meeting Location: Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom

Meeting called to order at 5:30pm

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

Meeting Agenda adopted (with late item from Dir. Forseth - video recording of Central Cariboo Joint Committee meetings) - click here

Minutes of the previous Joint Committee meetings was adopted

Delegations:

1) Lorina Sundt, Operations Manager from the Williams Lake Stampede Association, was in attendance to provide an update on the Association’s current activities and plans being made for the 100th Anniversary in 2 years.

2) Rob Gertzen from the Williams Lake Stampeders was in attendance to discuss arena advertising and distribution of revenues

Following each presentation -- A Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair thanked the delegations for their time/information

Business:

The Committee discussed the following items: 

* CMRC Recipient of Polar Engineering Climate Action Award at 2026 Recreation Facilities Association of BC Conference (Information only) 

* CMRC Naming Rights Draft Policy

* CMRC Capital Budget Adjustment Request – Condenser to Compressor Report

* CMRC Operating Budget Options 2026 Report

* Esler Recreation Advisory Commission Spring Meeting Minutes and Recommendations

* Williams Lake Indoor Turf Facility Feasibility Study 

* Video Recording of Central Cariboo Joint Committee meetings

* Action Page

Committee Actions:

The Committee made the following recommendations to the Regional District Board: 

*  That the CMRC Naming Rights Draft Policy be approved

* That the 2026 Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services Financial Plan be amended to reallocate $60,000 for the replacement of the condenser gasket seal, to overhauling of the compressors

* That, in respect of the 2025 Budget Deficit for Central Cariboo Recreation -- Options #1,3,4 (deferral of capital projects) as contained in the Staff report dated April 26, 2026, be approved and the remainder be covered by Budgetary Surplus 

* That staff report back on ways/means on communicating budget challenges in Central Cariboo Recreation outside of regularly scheduled Central Cariboo Joint Committee meetings, if a meeting of the Joint Committee were to be cancelled

Councillor S. Nelson left the meeting at 7:21pm

* Esler Recreation Advisory Commission Spring Meeting Recommendations -- Recommendations #1,2,3 be approved (click here)

* That staff take no further action regarding video recording of Central Cariboo Joint Committee meetings until the Cariboo Regional District Board makes determination of video recording of its' Board and Committee meetings 

* That the Action Page be updated, as follows -- Remove Items #3,7,8

Closed Committee Session:

At  7:25pm -- the Committee recessed its' Open Meeting to hold a Closed Session as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter 

Resumption of Open Session:

At 7:29pm -- the Committee resumed its' Open Meeting 

And then the Committee adjourned at 7:31pm

BC Air Access Program Awards for 2026-2027

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Editor's Note -- In the Cariboo-Chilcotin: 

* Anahim Lake (Cariboo RD Area J) -- Nearly $1.6 million for an apron expansion at Anahim Lake Airport 

* Bella Coola – $30,400 for a facility master plan at Bella Coola Airport 

* Quesnel – $24,234 for a facility master plan at Quesnel Regional Airport 

Eighteen B.C. communities will benefit from upgrades to land and water airports through an investment of more than $8 million from B.C. Air Access Program.

“The B.C. Air Access Program strengthens local economies and supports good jobs, while improving safety for people living in and travelling through rural and regional communities,” said the Hon. Mike Farnworth, BC's Minister of Transportation and Transit. “This program recognizes that smaller airports help connect communities and are essential for the people throughout B.C.”

Investment in services, economic development

The investment will include upgrades to air facilities to support wildfire suppression, air ambulance and other emergency-response services. For example, the Anahim Lake apron expansion project will improve access for medevac and expand the wildfire operations base for a large, isolated area.

Upgraded airports support economic development and tourism potential by getting goods and people faster to destinations throughout the province. At the Ganges Outer Harbour on Salt Spring Island, expanded dock moorage facilities will allow floatplanes to land more often, supporting the local economy and tourism needs.

Beneficial community impacts

“This program has a significant positive impact for communities throughout the province,” said Cathy Press, chair, BC Aviation Council. “It provides funding for a variety of projects from lighting improvements to facility expansions, which will benefit communities and residents for years to come.”

The program is open to facilities that serve fewer than one million passengers per year. BCAAP opens intake for all eligible applicants from November until January each year.

Quick Facts:

• B.C. is home to more than 300 public airports, heliports and water aerodromes that connect people and their communities, support the economy and help keep people safe.
• Since 2017, the B.C. Air Access Program has committed more than $80 million in grants to infrastructure projects at 83 air facilities.

Learn More:

For more information about aviation infrastructure funding, visit: https://gov.bc.ca/BCAirAccessProgram

Williams Lake Council Highlights - May 26, 2026 mtg

Present:

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

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

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

Meeting Video - click here 

Meeting Agenda - click here

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous Council meeting were received/adopted

Delegations:

1) S/Sgt Brad McKinnon, Williams Lake RCMP Detachment Acting Officer in Charge re May 2026 Police Commission Update 

2) Peter Scholz, Cairnstone Planning on Behalf of NDIT re Verbal Update on Continuation of Northern Railway Services 

After each presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued 

Mayor Rathor thanked the delegations for their time/information and Council received their presentations for information

Response to Delegations:

1) That Staff schedule an emergency public meeting to include the RCMP, Downtown Williams Lake BIA, Interior Health, social agencies, shelter organizations and other key stakeholders as well as representatives from BC Prosecution Service and Todd Doherty, Cariboo-Prince George MP to address the street disorder and mischief in Williams Lake and with consideration towards the possibility of temporarily close the jails of Williams Lake to transport key criminals out of the community of Williams Lake and that a report be presented to Council as to the outcome of the meeting

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated May 14 and 21, 2026

2) Council approved entering into the proposed encroachment agreement with 1556694 BC LTD. DBA Stampeder Inn, for a five-year term, for a deck, retaining walls located on City of Williams Lake boulevard along Windmill Crescent and Lakeview Avenue, and an existing building encroachment along the laneway for the property at 2 Lakeview Avenue

3) Council gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings to “City of Williams Lake Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 2439, 2026” 

4) Council approved the 2025 Statement of Financial Information (SOFI) report and disclosure schedules for submission to the Province of BC

5) Council agreed to waive its' Purchasing Policy No. 138 and sole-source award of the Development Cost Charges Bylaw Update Project to Urban Systems Ltd. for $73,500, excluding GST, with the remaining amount over the 2026 capital budget to be drawn from General Reserves should project completion occur prior to 2027

6) Council ratified an email poll authorizing entering into the Amendment #1 Statement of Works (SOW) Agreement provided by Recycle BC for recycling services between a portion of Electoral Area "E" of the Cariboo Regional District and the City of Williams Lake 

7) Council received the 2026 submission from the Williams Lake Public Art Committee and approved the selected projects for the matching annual allocation of $5,000 namely: 

* Complete mural on back of the Cariboo Regional District Williams Lake building 

* Complete mural on side of Sam's Restaurant (3rd Avenue, across from the Cariboo Regional District Williams Lake office) 

8) Council received its' Council Information Package as of May 26, 2026 

Members of Council reported on their recent activities

And then Council adjourned at 7:41pm 

Interior Health (IH) working with partners to stabilize emergency care at 100 Mile District General Hospital

Courtesy of Interior Health:

Interior Health has formed a local task force to work together on improving the stability and reliability of emergency department (ED) services at 100 Mile District General Hospital (OMH).

The task force includes representatives from local government, Indigenous communities, the Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District, and the Division of Family Practice. Through ongoing meetings, partners are working together on immediate and longer-term actions to support consistent access to emergency care in 100 Mile House.

Based on a review of current staffing pressures, hospital use and physician coverage, the task force is moving forward with several priority actions:

• Exploring a trial of virtual physician support for the emergency department. Planning work is underway to assess how a virtual model could safely support local care needs and help reduce service interruptions while supporting physician workload and retention.
• Reviewing emergency department scheduling options beyond the current 12-hour shifts, including the possible use of eight-hour shifts, along with the supports and training needed to improve staffing flexibility.
• Improving access to same-day primary care in the community. About half of patients currently visiting the emergency department have non-urgent or semi-urgent needs that may be better treated in a primary care setting. Expanding same-day care access could help reduce pressure on the emergency department and improve patient flow.
• Increasing physician recruitment efforts, including targeted recruitment of U.S.-trained physicians to strengthen long-term emergency coverage, to build on recruitment efforts already underway.
• Expanding the existing health-care landing program in 100 Mile House to support recruitment and retention through housing assistance, relocation support, and community integration.

100 Mile House currently has 13 local physicians working in private clinics. About half provide emergency department coverage, with remaining shifts filled by visiting physicians. Local doctors also support care in clinics, long-term care, and hospital services across the community.

The task force will continue working closely with local and visiting physicians to develop practical staffing solutions that support physician wellness and help build a more stable and sustainable health-care system in 100 Mile House.

While this work is moving forward, staffing shortages remain a challenge, particularly during peak vacation periods such as the summer months.

Interior Health will continue working with partners to improve staffing stability at OMH and support reliable emergency care for the community. Updates will continue to be shared as planning and implementation work progresses.  

Ontario Superior Judge rules homeless can't be moved to make way for Transit Hub

Last week (Thursday, May 21, 2026) -- an Ontario Superior Court judge ruled that the Region of Waterloo could not remove homeless individuals to make way to construct a new Transit Hub unless the Region asks people to move if they provided an alternative legal encampment site or a tenting protocol, similar to the cities of London and Thunder Bay, Ontario as that would be inconsistent with the Canadian Charter of Rights/Freedoms (Section 7 - right of liberty, life) - more here

There have been similar court rulings here in BC -- in 2021, a BC Supreme Court Justice ruled against the City of Prince George where the City there wanted to dismantle a homeless camp in a downtown industrial area but was ultimately told the City of Prince George could do so, when there was suitable housing options available for the homeless -- more here.  In addition, there have been similar BC Supreme Court rulings including the case of Abbotsford (City) v. Shantz in 2015 

With homeless challenges (and related public safety concerns) impacting on a number of BC Municipalities such as Quesnel/Williams Lake and with BC Local Elections for Mayors/Councillors' coming up in October of 2026 -- it will be interesting to see how court rulings like the 2015/2021 BC Supreme Court decisions as well as the recent Ontario Superior Court decision might impact on incumbents' chances at re-election in BC Municipalities in October 2026 .... 

Heloise Dixon-Warren seeks to become (again) Cariboo RD Area "B" Director

 

Heloise Dixon-Warren
via Facebook

Former Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area "B" Director Heloise Dixon Warren (2011-2014) has announced on Facebook that she will be running for the position of Cariboo Regional District Area "B" Director in the upcoming Cariboo Regional District Area Director elections in October 2026... 

She states that a Facebook election page will follow in the next little while .... 

Current Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area "B" Director Barb Bachmeier has not yet announced if she will seek re-election in October of 2026... nor of the other Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area Directors in Areas A,C,D,E,F,G,H,I,J,K,L... 

More information on Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area Director elections in October 2026 can be viewed at https://www.cariboord.ca/regional-government/elections-and-voting/general-local-elections/

Voters go to the polls to elect new Mayors, Councillors, Electoral Area Directors and School Trustees for the 2026-2030 term on Saturday, October 17, 2026

Taseko Mines proposes Corporate Name Change at its' upcoming AGM

Courtesy of Taseko Mines:

Editor's Note -- Taseko Mines operates the Gibraltar Mine located near McLeese Lake, BC in the Cariboo-Chilcotin region 

Taseko Mines Limited (TSX: TKO; NYSE American: TGB; LSE: TKO) ("Taseko" or the "Company") announces that it has filed its notice of meeting, management information circular (the "Circular") and related documents (collectively, the "Meeting Materials") with securities regulators in connection with its upcoming Annual General Meeting (the “Meeting”) of holders of common shares of the Company (“Shareholders”).

The Meeting Materials, which have been mailed to shareholders, can also be accessed online on Taseko’s website (tasekomines.com/investors/agm) and under the company’s profile on SEDAR+ (sedarplus.ca).

Proposed Name Change

At the upcoming Meeting, the Company is proposing a name change to reflect its growing business and expanded asset base in North America. Management believes that it is the right time for a new name that reflects the Company today and where it is headed. Subject to shareholder approval at this year’s AGM, Taseko Mines Limited will become Trekor Metals Limited.

Stuart McDonald, President and CEO of Taseko, commented, “Over the last two decades, Taseko has been on a journey – steadily growing our business and unlocking value in our high-quality portfolio of development assets. We’ve seized opportunities that others have overlooked and built value for shareholders and the communities where we operate. Our journey will continue as Trekor, a name that embodies our values and reflects our ambition to continue to grow North America’s copper sector.”

Meeting Details

The Meeting will be held in person at the Terminal City Club (837 W Hastings Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6C 1B6) on June 24, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. (Pacific Time). At the Meeting, Shareholders will be asked to vote on the follow resolutions:

The setting of the number of directors at nine;

The election of directors;

The appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, as auditors of the Company, and authorization of the Board to fix their remuneration;

The approval of a proposed name change of the Company to “Trekor Metals Limited”; and

Consideration of the advisory say-on-pay vote.

The Taseko Board unanimously recommends that shareholders vote FOR all proposed resolutions.

Vote Today

The proxy voting deadline is 2:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) on June 22, 2026. Shareholders are encouraged to vote well in advance of the proxy voting deadline to ensure your vote is submitted in a timely manner. Voting is easy. Shareholders may vote online, by telephone or any other methods provided in the form or proxy or voting instruction which have been included as part of the mailing.

Shareholders of record as of the close of business on May 5, 2026 are eligible to vote at the Meeting.

Williams Lake Fire Hall Open House - May 30, 2026

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The Williams Lake Fire Department invites residents of all ages to attend its annual Open House on Saturday, May 30, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Williams Lake Fire Hall (230 Hodgson Road, Williams Lake) for a fun-filled day of activities, live demonstrations and fire safety education.

The family-friendly event gives guests the opportunity to explore fire trucks, meet local firefighters and learn more about the work the department does to help keep the community safe. Children will also have the chance to try spraying a fire hose at a target, complete a mini firefighter course and take part in a variety of activities throughout the day.

During the Open House, guests can also watch live demonstrations and cheer on firefighters during the firefighter challenge, where members of the department will compete in a series of skill-based events showcasing the physical demands and teamwork involved in the job.

“This is a great opportunity to see the services your local fire department provides in an interactive and fun way, as well as a chance to see all the different equipment we utilize to help keep the community safe,” said Cory Boyd, Manager of Fire Prevention and Education.

Food and refreshments will also be available for purchase during the event, with funds supporting the Williams Lake Firefighters Association.

Residents are encouraged to bring the whole family out for an exciting day of learning, exploration and community fun. 

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments/Boards of Education Meetings | Week of May 25-29, 2026

During the week of May 25-29, 2026 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments/Boards of Education will be holding meetings: 

Wells: Meetings to be held in Wells Council Chambers/via Zoom (4243 Sanders Avenue, Wells) on Tuesday, May 26th, 2026:

i) Closed Session from 1:30pm - 3:00pm -- Sections 92 + 90(1a + l - appointment and strategic planning) of the Community Charter.  View the Closed Meeting notice here

ii) Open Session from 3:15pm to 4:30pm -- when available, the full Meeting Agenda can be viewed here

Quesnel: Regular Council Meeting in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel) on Tuesday, May 26th, 2026 at 5:30pm.  On the Agenda: 

* Presentation: retiring City of Quesnel staff member

* Delegations: i) Quesnel Farmers Market; ii) Quesnel RCMP Detachment Project

* Reports from Committees' 

* BC Transit Annual Operating Agreement 

* Statement of Financial Information for year ending December 31, 2025 (includes remuneration/expenses for elected officials - Mayor/Councillors) 

* Hillside Hazard Development Permit Review

View the full Meeting Agenda here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin): Regular Board of Education Meeting on Monday, May 25th, 2026 at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

* Delegation: Lake City Secondary Capstone Program, Vice Principals Yvonne Davis & Nara Riplinger

* Report of the Superintendent

* Receive Committee of the Whole Report from May 11, 2026 meeting

* 2026/27 Initial Budget Approval 

* Long Range Facility Plan - for approval of submission to the BC Ministry of Education 

* Major Capital List - for approval of submission to the BC Ministry of Education 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Williams Lake: Regular Council Meeting in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St, Williams Lake) on Tuesday, May 26th, 2026 at 6:00pm.  On the Agenda: 

* Delegations: i) Williams Lake RCMP, ii) Peter Scholz, Cairnstone Planning on Behalf of NDIT re Verbal Update on Continuation of Northern Railway Services

*  Encroachment Agreement - 2 Lakeview Avenue - Stampeder Inn - Approval

* Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw - Zoning Bylaw Fine Schedule Updates

* 2025 Statement of Financial Information - for approval (includes remuneration/expenses for elected officials - Mayor/Councillors) 

* Development Cost Charges Bylaw Update Award

* Ratify email poll of Council - Recycle BC Statement of Work Amendment for Cariboo RD Area "E" Curbside Adjacency Agreement

* Williams Lake Public Art Committee 2026 Submission

View the full Meeting Agenda here

100 Mile House: Regular Council Meeting in 100 Mile Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House) on Tuesday, May 26th, 2026 

On the Agenda: 

* Delegations: 1) Caroline Slade – Dawson Road Maintenance Spring Update; 2) Victoria Walker re: concept on stabilizing 100 Mile Healthcare

* City of Prince George UBCM Resolution Support - Rural Homeowner Grant

* PSO Grad Parade Street Closure 

* 2025 Annual Report - District of 100 Mile House

* 2025 Statement of Financial Information (includes information for remuneration/expenses for elected officials - Mayor/Councillors) 

* Authorization for Asset Disposal 

* Discussion Item: UBCM Meeting Requests 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District: all meetings to take place in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake)

i) Central Cariboo Joint Committee - Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at 5:30pm.  On the Agenda: 

* Delegations: i) Rob Gertzen from the Williams Lake Stampeders - CMRC Arena advertising and distribution of revenues; ii) Lorina Sundt, Operations Manager from the Williams Lake Stampede Association: update on the Association’s current activities and plans being made for the 100th Anniversary in 2 years

* For Information: CMRC Recipient of Polar Engineering Climate Action Award at 2026 Recreation Facilities Association of BC Conference

* For Action -- CMRC Naming Rights Draft Policy, CMRC Capital Budget Adjustment Request – Condenser to Compressor Report, CMRC Operating Budget Options 2026 Report and Esler Recreation Advisory Commission Spring Meeting Minutes and Recommendations

* Discussion Item: Indoor Sport Facility Task Force - Next Steps

* Closed Committee Meeting: Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

ii) Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 3:00pm.  On the Agenda: 

* For Action: WLFN Annual Pow Wow Sponsorship Letter 2026

* For Information: Victim Services Annual Report 2025

* Discussion Item: WL Fringe Fire Protection (portions of Cariboo RD Areas D,E,F immediately adjacent to Williams Lake - Dir. Forseth)

View the full Meeting Agenda here

iii) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District - Regular Board Meeting -- Friday, May 29, 2026 at 9:30am.  On the Agenda: 

* Information Items

* Delegation: Cariboo Memorial Hospital Foundation 

* In-Camera Session: Sections (1e+j - land and information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

iv) Cariboo Regional District - Regular Board Meeting -- Friday, May 29, 2026 at 9:45am or upon recess/adjournment of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board Meeting, whichever occurs first.  On the Agenda: 

* Delegation: Forest Enhancement Society of BC

* Land Use Matters (Area Directors only)

* 2026 UBCM Convention – Provincial Appointment Book and Meeting Requests (Virtual)

* Advocacy Information – Mitigating Invasive Plant Spread in the Cariboo Chilcotin

* Recommendations from Committees' or Commissions' 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

RCMP ask for appropriate use of ORV/Off Road Vehicles

Courtesy of BC RCMP - "E" Division:

Police are reminding residents and visitors that off-road vehicles (ORVs) are regulated in BC, and improper use can result in fines, vehicle impoundment or seizure, and serious or even fatal injuries. 

At the beginning of every riding season, the Williams Lake RCMP see an increase in ORV activity in the area and want to ensure that operators are lawful and safe. 

Where you can ride:

• On Crown land where use is permitted 
• On private property with the landowner’s permission 
• On designated trails, recreation sites, or areas where motorized use is allowed 

Where you can’t ride:

• On public roads, streets, or highways, which includes trails and sidewalks, except in very limited circumstances such as: 
  • Crossing a road at a 90‑degree angle where it is safe and permitted 
  • Short incidental access on roads only where authorized by signage or local bylaws 
• Municipal bylaws and land‑use rules may further restrict where off‑road vehicles can be used. 

Registration

All ORVs used on Crown land or prescribed private land must be registered with ICBC and display a valid number plate or sticker. Operators must carry proof of registration while riding. 

Helmets

Helmets are mandatory for all drivers and passengers, regardless of age while riding or driving on: 

• ATVs 
• Dirt bikes / off‑road motorcycles 
• Snowmobiles 
  • Helmets must also be approved safety helmets and properly fastened

Seatbelts

Seatbelts must be worn at all times in side‑by‑sides and other ORVs equipped with seatbelts

• Operators must ensure all passengers are properly seated and restrained

Children under 16

Children under 16 must be under direct adult supervision unless they meet the legal requirements to operate independently.

• Fourteen- and fifteen-year-olds may be permitted to operate certain off-road vehicles without direct supervision if:
  • They have completed an approved training course for the vehicle class; and
  • They have written permission from a parent or guardian for unsupervised riding
• Children under 16 are not permitted to carry passengers

Operating an ATV, dirt bike or side‑by‑side in prohibited areas, without registration, or without required safety equipment may result in fines, vehicle impoundment or seizure, or charges under the Off‑Road Vehicle Act or other applicable legislation.

“Public streets are no place for off-road vehicles,” said Staff Sergeant Brad McKinnon of the Williams Lake RCMP. “We encourage operators to know and abide by the rules to keep everyone safe this summer season.”

Associated links

• Off-Road Vehicles - Province of British Columbia

Water system upgrade work on Johnson Street and Pigeon Avenue

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake would like to advise residents of upcoming water system improvement works taking place from May 19 to July 31, 2026.

Construction and excavation work will occur on:

Johnson Street (Gibbon Street to Western Avenue)

Pigeon Avenue (Comer Street to Western Avenue)

To ensure the safety of crews and the public, traffic will be limited to one-way only:

Johnson Street: southbound only toward the hospital

Pigeon Avenue: northbound only

Residents and motorists should expect delays, detours, parking restrictions, temporary access interruptions and other impacts to vehicle and pedestrian traffic throughout the construction period.

Water interruptions will also occur at times during the project. Affected residents will receive additional notice prior to any planned shutdowns.

Please use caution in construction areas and obey all traffic control personnel, signs, and devices. We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation during these important infrastructure upgrades.

NCLGA 2026 Convention goes from May 20-22, 2026

Starting today (May 20, 2026) until Friday, May 22 afternoon -- the 2026 NCLGA/North Central Local Government Association's Convention will take place in the City of Prince George and co-hosted between the City of Prince George, Regional District of Fraser Fort George and Lheidli T'enneh First Nation ... and the final one of the 2022-2026 BC Local Government elected term

In the next two days -- there will be tours for delegates, the annual Northern Health Forum to discuss healthcare related issues, different sessions covering Mental Health, Agriculture, Tourism, Recreation & Sport in Northern BC as well as NCLGA Delegates providing feedback on the UBCM/Union of BC Municipalities Governance Review of its' Executive Board structure

As well: 40 NCLGA Resolutions will be debated -- these can be viewed at https://nclga.ca/advocacy/2026-resolutions

View the full NCLGA Convention Guide at https://nclga.ca/uploads/NCLGA_Program_2605_PAGES_FINAL%20DIGITAL%20VERSION.pdf

Safe travels to those Mayors, Councillors and Area Directors travelling to Prince George today to attend the 2026 NCLGA Convention and happy learning and connecting!!