Wednesday, March 11, 2026

BC Transit services in Williams Lake moving to new operating partner

Courtesy of BC Transit:

Effective April 1, 2026, all transit service in the Wiliams Lake Transit System will be provided by Passenger Contracted Transportation Services. This includes fixed route, handyDART and Paratransit services.

Transit service in the Williams Lake Transit System will not be impacted by this change in operating companies, including all routes, schedules and fares.

BC Transit would like to thank Laker’s Go Bus Society for their 45 years of commitment to providing award winning and exceptional service in the region. They will continue to operate service until March 31, and all current Laker’s Go Bus Society employees will remain in their current roles with Passenger Contracted Transportation Services. 

Passenger Contracted Transportation Services is currently operating service for BC Transit in the Quesnel Transit System. They have signed a one-year agreement for Williams Lake, as this contract will be going to RFP or Request For Proposals later in 2026.  

Tuesday, March 10, 2026

Williams Lake Council Highlights - March 10, 2026 mtg

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

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

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

Meeting Video - click here
Meeting Agenda approved - click here
Minutes of the previous City Council meeting was adopted 

Delegation:

Lt. (Navy) Zach Lipinski and Sailor 1st Class Nick Straub, originally from Williams Lake, on Return from Deployment Aboard HMCS Max Bernays appeared before Council regarding a presentation regarding their return from deployment aboard the HMCS Max Bernays to the Arctic and the Pacific and their experiences on deployment..

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

Mayor Rathor thanked the presenters for their time/information 

Response to Delegations:

Council received for information the presentation of Lt. (Navy) Zach Lipinski and Sailor 1st Class Nick Straub, originally from Williams Lake, on Sailor Straub's return from deployment aboard the HMCS Max Bernays to the Arctic and the Pacific and their experiences on deployment

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) listings dated February 26 and March 5, 2026

2) Following public input -- Council approved Development Permit No. 01-2026 for 0695314 BC Ltd. (Scott Tucker) to permit a residential multiplex development at 406 Pearkes Drive

3) Following public input -- Council approved Development Variance Permit No. 01-2026 for Peter Arnold Log Homes, on behalf of 607841 BC Ltd, to vary Section 4M.2 “Maximum Height” and “Storey” of City of Williams Lake Zoning Bylaw No. 2430, 2025 to increase the maximum allowable height from 6m to 15m and the storeys from 1.5 to 4 for Accessory Buildings and Structures for the proposed and future construction of storage sheds for heavy equipment, located at 4685 Cattle Drive

4) Council approved submission of the draft NCLGA 2026 Resolution on fibre recovery and wildfire protection for consideration at the 2026 North Central Local Government Association Convention in Prince George from May 20-22, 2026

5) Council approved the submission of an application to the Union of BC Municipalities’ ‘Local Government Development Approvals Program 2026’ requesting $25,000 to update the City’s development approval procedures bylaw and supporting documents and forms to increase efficiency and streamlining in the development approval process

6) Council approved an application to the BC Healthy Communities ‘2026 Age-Friendly Communities Grant Program’ in the amount of $15,000 for activities related to the “Soup Series”, coordinated by the Social Planning Council of Williams Lake and Area

7) Council approved the use of reserves to cover the 2026-2030 financial plan shortfall, and directed staff to prepare the 2026-2030 Financial Plan and 2026 Tax Rate Bylaws for Council's consideration 

8) Council approved award of the Western Avenue Potable Water Reservoir Lining tender to Western Tank & Lining Ltd. for the tendered price of $174,798.00, plus applicable taxes

9) Council awarded the request for quote for the purchase of one 2026 electric lift truck to Wanshing Machinery Ltd. for the purchase price of $44,240.00, including all applicable taxes

10) Council received a letter from the BC Council of Forest Industries in their letter dated February 26, 2026 requesting official endorsement of their "Forestry is a Solution" initiative and Council agreed to the request from the BC Council of Forest Industries

11) Council received for information a letter from Canadian Blood Services (Bhavna Pooni and Nathan Daye) thanking Council for supporting their cause and helping to raise awareness of the importance of blood and plasma donation services in BC, together with the letter from Mayor Rathor dated February 26, 2026 in support of Canadian Blood Services and the need for establishment of a blood plasma donor centre in Northern British Columbia

12) Council received a letter from the Physiotherapy Association of British Columbia requesting the City's support in advocating to the provincial government for modernization of the scope of practice for PABC members to include the ability to order diagnostic imaging be received and Council agreed to provide a letter of advocacy to the PABC in support of their initiative

13) Council received a letter from BC Housing regarding an update on the supportive housing project at 845 Carson Drive be received and staff were directed to coordinate a meeting with BC Housing representatives & Council to further discuss this matter

14) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of March 10, 2026 and at the request of Councillor Flaspohler, Council agreed to place the link to the City of Prince George public safety petition on the City of Williams Lake website and/or social media channels 

Late Item:

Council endorsed the following Resolution: 

Whereas Williams Lake is home to the best hockey teams in BC,

And Whereas The Williams Lake Mustangs and Quesnel River Rush teams are currently competing against each other in the first round of the 2026 Teck Cup,

And Whereas The City of Williams Lake Mayor and Council are confident of a Mustangs victory,

Now Therefore be it resolved That the City of Williams Lake formally issue a challenge to the City of Quesnel that, when the Williams Lake Mustangs inevitably win the series, His Worship Mayor Ron Paull of Quesnel will wear a Williams Lake Mustangs jersey for the entirety of the first Regular City of Quesnel Council meeting following the series completion,

And Further That, in the unlikely (if not unfathomable) situation where the Quesnel team prevails and wins the series, His Worship Mayor Surinderpal Rathor of Williams Lake will agree to wear a Quesnel River Rush jersey for the entirety of the first Regular City of Williams Lake Council meeting following the series completion.

Members of Council provided verbal reports on their recent activities 

Councillor S. Nelson provided the following Notice of Motion for consideration at the next Council meeting of Tuesday, March 24, 2026

"BE IT RESOLVED: 

THAT Council endorse, support, advocate and enforce that public safety of Williams Lake be the top priority by enforcement of the following: 

* Homeless and/or prolific individuals that cause havoc in Williams Lake and/or individuals with mental health challenges and are known to both Interior Health and/or Williams Lake RCMP and reside on the streets of Williams Lake be required to wear a GPS device, be placed in jail, receive 24/7 wrap-round health supports or the individual(s) be requested to move to another BC Community that has such 24/7 wrap-round health supports available 

* Any homeless and/or prolific individuals that cause havoc in Williams Lake and/or individuals with mental health challenges and sleep on the streets of Williams Lake and has 3 or more criminal charges be offered, encouraged and/or persuaded to take a 1 way bus ticket (with $100 cash for meals) anywhere in BC, Alberta or the State of Alaska that has both appropriate housing space and the appropriate 24/7 wrap-round health supports in place 

AND THAT Staff be requested to implement the above-noted policies ASAP to protect the community of Williams Lake in the name of Public Safety and that Staff inform the appropriate authorities"  

Motion to Close the Meeting to the Public:

At 7:16pm -- Council passed the following motion: 

That Council now resolve 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 Sections 90(1) of the Community Charter, as follows:

(1)(g) litigation or potential litigation affecting the municipality, and 

(1)(i) the receipt of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose 

And then Council adjourned at 7:17pm 

March 2026 BC Snowpack Report

The BC River Forecast Centre has released its’ March 2026 Snowpack Report…





Quick Synopsis: 


Provincial Snowpack Status – 91% of normal for March 2026 (in March 2025: this was 73% of normal) 


Quesnel Snow Basin: 90% of normal (down 1% from February) [Areas A,B,C,D,E,F; part of Area I, Cities of Quesnel/Williams; District of Wells]


Chilcotin Snow Basin: 47% of normal (down 28% from February) [Areas J,K and part of Area I]


North Thompson Basin: 106% of normal (up 3% from February) [Areas G,H,L and District of 100 Mile House]


The full March 2026 Snowpack Report… can be viewed at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/environment/air-land-water/water/river-forecast/2026_mar1.pdf

Saturday, March 7, 2026

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government/Board of Education Meetings | Week of March 9-13, 2026

During the week of March 9-13, 2026 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments or Boards' of Education will be holding meetings, as follows: 

Quesnel: Financial Sustainability and Audit Committee on Wednesday, March 11th, 2026 at 9am in the Fraser River Meeting Room/Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda:

* 2025 Reserve Balances
* 4th Quarter 2025 Capital Program

View the full Meeting Agenda here

School District #28 (Quesnel): Regular Board of Education Meeting on Wednesday, March 11th, 2026 at 7pm in the SD28 Boardroom (401 North Star Rd, Quesnel).  When available, the full Meeting Agenda can be viewed here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin): Regular Board of Education Meeting on Monday, March 9th, 2026 at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

* Delegation: Principal, Ben McIntosh - Naghtaneqed mountain bike project

* Report of the Superintendent
* 3rd/Final Reading of a Bylaw to impose a Statutory Right of Way in favour of TELUS near 70 Mile Elementary 

*  2026 Budget Engagement Process

View the full Meeting Agenda here

** Please note *** -- Questions for items on the Agenda must be submitted in writing via email to info@sd27.bc.ca by 2pm on Monday, March 9th, 2026 where the SD27 Board Chair may address them at this meeting of the SD27 Board of Education or a future SD27 Board of Education meeting... 

Williams Lake: Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 10th, 2026 at 6pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

* Delegation: Lieutneant (Navy) Zach Lipinski and Sailor 1st Class Nick Straub, Originally from Williams Lake, on Return from Deployment Aboard HMCS Max Bernays

* Development Permit Application - DP #01-2026 - 0695314 BC Ltd. (S. Tucker) - Residential Multiplex Development: 406 Pearkes Drive - For Approval

* Development Variance Permit Application - DVP #01-2026 - Peter Arnold Log Homes / 607841 BC Ltd. - Increase Maximum Height & Storeys for Proposed Storage Shed(s): 4685 Cattle Drive - For Approval

* 2026 NCLGA (North Central Local Government Association) Resolution Submission - Fibre Recovery and Wildfire Protection

* UBCM (Union of BC Municipalities) Local Government Development Approvals Program 2026 - Council Resolution for Grant Application

* 2026 Age-Friendly Communities Grant Application

* 2026 Budget Development - Further Review, Update and Direction from Council requested

* Tender Awards -- Western Avenue Potable Water Reservoir Lining and 2026 Electric Lift Truck

* Letter from BC Council of Forest Industries re "Forestry is a Solution" Official Endorsement Request

* Letter from BC Housing re: Update regarding "Jubilee Place - 845 Carson Dr"

* Closed/In-Camera Council Meeting: Section 90(1i - legal advice) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

100 Mile House: Meetings, as noted below, on Tuesday, March 10th, 2026 all to be held in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House).

1) 100 Mile Development Corporation at 4:00pm.  On the Agenda: 

* 2026 Budget 
* 2026 South Cariboo Recreation Center Update 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) 100 Mile House Municipal Council at 5:30pm.  On the Agenda: 

* Delegations: "Hearts for 100 Mile" and Enbridge 

* South Cariboo Farmers Market – Signage Plan 
* Bylaw Officer's Report for February 2026
* 2026 Policy & Procedures Manual - for Adoption

* Bylaws: Parks, Public Spaces and Community Facilities Bylaw No. 1467, 2026 and Fees & Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 1468, 2026 -- for consideration of 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings

* Closed/In-Camera Council Meeting -- Sections 90(1)(g), 90(2)(b)(i) and 90 (2)(b)(iii) of the Community Charter covering litigation and confidential negotiations between 100 Mile House Municipal Council, Provincial/Federal Governments, an Indigenous Entity and/or a 3rd Party  

Finally -- a number of Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional District Area Directors, Mayors or Councillors will be in Richmond, BC during the week of March 10-13, 2026 attending the 2026 UBCM/Union of BC Municipalities Annual EA Director Forum or the LGLA/Local Government Leadership Academy's Annual Leadership Forum

For the record, I (Director Forseth) will not be attending either of these events next week but links to the UBCM EA Director Forum or LGLA Annual Leadership Forum are provided below for your information: 


2) 2026 LGLA Annual Leadership Forum -- https://lgla.ca/lgla-forum/#program

Friday, March 6, 2026

Cariboo RD's Indigenous Relations Committee Highlights - March 6, 2026 Special Meeting

Present via MS Teams: 

Chair T. Pare; Directors J. Massier, M. Neufeld and E. DeVries

Guest via MS Teams: 

CRD Board Chair M. Wagner

Meeting called to order at 2:05pm - held via MS Teams and transmitted via the Cariboo RD Boardroom in Williams Lake

The Chair recognized the various Indigenous territories where members of the Committee were participating from 

Meeting Agenda adopted with 1 Late Item (Dir. DeVries re: NCLGA Indigenous Relations Committee - Discussion Item) - click here

Minutes of the previous Committee meeting were adopted

Business:

The Committee discussed the following items:

* Amended Draft Memorandum of Understanding for Emergency Management Coordination with Nazko First Nation

* Indigenous Relations Framework Implementation
* NCLGA Indigenous Relations Committee
* Nazko First Nation AGM/Attendance by CRD Board Chair + Staff 

Following discussion, the Committee agreed to make 1 recommendation to the Regional Board for its' consideration: 

That the amended draft Memorandum of Understanding between Nazko First Nation and the Cariboo Regional District to strengthen emergency management coordination be endorsed, as presented

And then the Committee adjourned at 2:48pm

Cariboo RD's Indigenous Relations Committee holds Special Meeting - March 6, 2026

Later today (March 6, 2026) at 2pm -- the Cariboo Regional District's Indigenous Relations Committee which is chaired by Cariboo RD Area "J" Director Tolin Pare will be holding a Special Meeting to review a proposed Draft Memorandum of Understanding for Emergency Management Coordination with Nazko First Nation

The full Meeting Agenda can be viewed here with any decision(s) made by the Committee today being presented to the Cariboo RD Board at their March 20, 2026 meeting for consideration of endorsement

The meeting will NOT be recorded or livestreamed.... 

Thursday, March 5, 2026

Quesnel Council Highlights - March 3, 2026 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Retirement Presentation - Richard Gauthier

Council recognized the retirement of 28-year employee Richard Gauthier, Recreation Manager. We wish Richard all the best in his retirement.

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Quesnel Ambassador Leadership Program - 2026 New Candidate Presentation

Mayor Paull introduced the 2025 Ambassadors and the 2026 Candidates and Sponsors, while Councillor McKelvie led the pinning ceremony.

2025 Ambassadors:
  • Grace Cassidy
  • Ociah Woodruff
2026 Candidates & Sponsors:
  • Jane Agboji - Bliss!
  • Daniella Agboji - William Lacy Real Estate
  • Kathy Rempel - James Rempel Law Corporation
  • Sebastien Denis - 768 Jet Ranger Squadron
  • Nora Aziz - Regency Chrysler
  • Katie Singer - Brent Bursey & Company Inc.
  • Sophie Denis - Rotary Club of Quesnel
  • Sorcha McMillan - AC&D Insurance
  • Abigail Russell - Reason 2 Run
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Forestry is a Solution request for support 

Council has endorsed a letter on the “Forestry is a Solution” initiative put forth by the Council of Forest Industries (COFI). The initiative highlights forestry’s role in supporting affordable housing, reducing wildfire risk through active forest management, sustaining family-supporting jobs, generating public revenues, and contributing to lower-carbon construction.

Council is also encouraging community members to visit www.forestryisasolution.com to sign the petition and send a letter to their MLA, the Minister of Forests, the Premier, and the Official Opposition Forests Critic to further support this initiative.

Bid to host NCLGA 2028

Council has approved a bid for Quesnel to host the 2028 North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA) Annual General Meeting and Convention. This opportunity aligns with a major milestone, as 2028 is the City of Quesnel’s 100th anniversary. Hosting the convention during our centennial year will be a great way to celebrate the community’s history and showcase Quesnel to regional leaders.

The NCLGA represents more than 265 local government officials from more than 42 communities across north central British Columbia. Their three‑day AGM and Convention, typically held in early May, brings together representatives from industry, government, First Nations, and other key decision makers. It’s a unique chance to welcome these guests to Quesnel and highlight the important work happening in our region.

Later in March, City staff will send a letter to invite the Cariboo Regional District to co-host the event.

Public Notice Bylaw

Council approved the first three readings of the City of Quesnel Public Notice Bylaw 1976, 2025, and adopted the Public Notice Policy CCR-31. The bylaw prescribes minimum public notices to include one newspaper ad and posting on the City’s website. The policy provides direction on administration considerations, including use of additional notices.

Council support for local initiatives

Council has approved the creation of a special commemorative book to celebrate the City of Quesnel’s 100th anniversary in 2028. This book will highlight how the municipality and community have grown and changed over the past century.

To help shape the content, the City will host a series of engagement sessions with community members, partners, and local organizations. The first of these meetings is expected to be held in the spring of 2026.

Quesnel Youth Soccer Association Management Agreement

Council approved the management and license of occupation agreement with the Quesnel Youth Soccer Association for their use of the indoor sports field complex for a five-year term.

Bylaws

  • Bylaw #1975 - City of Quesnel Council Procedure Bylaw 1975, 2025 - Final Adoption
  • Bylaw #1976 - City of Quesnel Public Notice Bylaw 1976, 2025 - First three readings

Monday, March 2, 2026

Search and Rescue Volunteer Memorial Day 2026

Search and Rescue Volunteer Memorial Day is an opportunity to honour the dedication, service and sacrifice of search and rescue volunteers throughout British Columbia...

We have a number of Search and Rescue teams throughout the Cariboo-Chilcotin including:

Central Cariboo Search and Rescue - CCSAR
West Chilcotin Search and Rescue
South Cariboo Search & Rescue
North Cariboo Highway and Rescue

Each of the above-mentioned groups receive funding from the Cariboo Regional District and operate under a Society-led model except for Central Cariboo Search and Rescue which is directly administered by the Cariboo Regional District ...

I appreciate all of our rural Search and Rescue teams and what they do year round to keep us safe -- both with regular practices and "answering the call" when it comes for assistance...

The Hon. Kelly Greene - BC's Minister of Emergency Management speaks more on this day at:

https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2026EMCR0004-000198

Sunday, March 1, 2026

Steve's Meeting/Expense Calendar - February 2026

In the month of February 2026 - I attended the following meetings or events: 

* February 3rd, 2026 -- Attended Virtual Provincial Town Hall Session on Forestry Supports for BC Rural Communities, co-hosted by the Hon. Brittny Anderson - BC Minister of State for Local Governments/Rural Communities and the Hon. Ravi Parmar, BC Minister of Forests then virtually met with the Deputy Minister of Water, Lands and Resource Stewardship along with Kukpi7 (Chief) Rhonda Phillips from Xat'sull First Nation and her Xat'sull team re: former Wildwood School Property 

* February 6th, 2026 -- Attended meetings of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Cariboo Regional District Boards' ... 

* February 11th, 2026 -- With Cariboo RD Area "K" Director Betty Anderson, attending the grand opening of "On the Fly Cafe" located at the Williams Lake Regional Airport, at the request of Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor 

* February 18th, 2026 -- virtually hosted annual (2026) Cariboo RD Area "D" Budget Town Hall meeting

* February 25th, 2026 -- attended meetings of Central Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus and Central Cariboo Joint Committee as well as observing a meeting of the Area "D" Advisory Planning Commission, via teleconference, for a land use application on Fox Mountain

* February 26th, 2026 -- attended meetings of the Cariboo RD's Finance/Budget Committee meeting as well as a Special Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board meeting

* February 27th, 2026 -- attended meetings of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Cariboo Regional District Boards' ... 

* February 28th, 2026 -- attended annual Open House at McLeese Lake Library 

As well -- responded to regular and ongoing inquiries from Cariboo RD Area "D" residents via phone/text, email or social media.  In addition, remained in regular contact with the Cariboo RD Area "D" Alternate Director and use her as a "sounding board" in ensuring I was on the right track for residents' of the Electoral Area... 

As to expenses submitted in the month of February 2026:

* February 6th, 2026 -- $206 for meetings of Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Cariboo Regional District Boards' ... 

* February 25th, 2026 -- $83 for meetings of Central Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus and Central Cariboo Joint Committee

* February 26th, 2026 -- $129 for meetings of Cariboo RD's Finance/Budget Committee meeting as well as a Special Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board

* February 27th, 2026 -- $206 for meetings of Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Cariboo Regional District Boards' ... 

Saturday, February 28, 2026

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings | Week of March 2-6, 2026

During the week of March 2-6, 2026 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments' will be holding meetings: 

Wells - Meetings of District of Wells Council on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 via Zoom and in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue, Wells), as follows:

1) Closed Session from 2-3pm and 4:45-5:30pm as per Sections 92 + 90(1A/1L - appointment and strategic planning) of the Community Charter.  View the Closed Meeting Notice here

2) Open Session from 3:15pm to 4:30pm.  When available, the Meeting Agenda can be viewed here

Quesnel -- 

1) Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda:

* Retirement Presentation - Richard Gauthier

* Quesnel Ambassador Leadership Program - New Candidate Presentation

* Reports from Committees' 

* Forestry is a Solution Request for support 

* Public Notice Bylaw

* 2028 NCLGA Conference Bid 

* City of Quesnel 100th Anniversary 

View the full Meeting Agenda here 

2) Governance and Strategy Committee/Special Meeting on Wednesday, March 4th, 2026 at 9am in the Fraser River Meeting Room (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda: 

* 2026 City of Quesnel Operational Plan
* Housing Projects Update
* West Quesnel Land Stability - Project Update
*Heritage Conservation Act - Open Discussion

View the full Meeting Agenda here 

Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026 at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

* Delegation: Presentation and Update from Silvia Dubray, Community Well-Being and Safety Plan Coordinator

* Protective Services - 2025 Year in Review

View the full Meeting Agenda here 

Cariboo Regional District: 

1) South Cariboo Joint Committee/Regular Meeting on Monday, March 2nd, 2026 at 12:00pm in District of 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House).  On the Agenda: 

* South Cariboo Recreation - 2025 Year in Review

* Discussion Items -- South Cariboo Recreation Centre Outdoor Rink/Media Booth, Dog Park and Action Page as a Standing Item on future South Cariboo Joint Committee Agendas

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Finally, during the week of March 2-6, 2026 | Cariboo RD Area "A" Director-elect Nicole Audet will be formally sworn into office.  Director-elect Audet will then formally take her seat at the March 19, 2026 Committee of the Whole (Cariboo RD Board) meeting and March 20, 2026 Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Cariboo Regional District Board Meetings... 

Friday, February 27, 2026

Cariboo RD Board Highlights - Feb 27, 2026 mtg

Present:

Chair M. Wagner/Vice-Chair M. Neufeld; Directors C. Oakes (via MS Teams), B. Bachmeier, J. Massier, S. Forseth, M. LeBourdais, J. Glassford, T. Pare, B. Anderson, E. De Vries, R. Paull, S. Rathor, M. Pinkney 

Meeting called to order at 9:48am

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 Board meeting were received/adopted

Delegation - 11:30am:

Peter Scholz with Cairnstone Planning attended remotely to provide information on the future operation and governance regarding the Prince George - North Vancouver rail corridor -- presentation here

Following the presentation -- A Question/Answer period 

The Chair thanked Mr. Scholz for his time/information 

Business - commencing at 9:45am:

1) The Board adopted Chilcotin Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5504, 2025 (Area J/4880 McGhee Rd)

Director Glassford declared a conflict of interest on the next item, due to a family conflict, and left the meeting at 9:53am

2) The Board approved a Provincial Agricultural Land Commission application for inclusion pertaining to District Lot 13291, Cariboo District for submission to the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission with a recommendation for approval (Area I) 

Director Glassford returned to the meeting at 9:54am

3) The Board directed Planning Staff to provide a submission to the Mountain Resorts Branch of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sport outlining concerns related to the proposed Mount Timothy Recreation Resort Master Plan including zoning compliance, water and sewer servicing feasibility, road access capacity, emergency egress, fire protection, and wildfire risk assessment and mitigation.

4) The Board approved Year Round Grant for Assistance applications, as follows: 

a) Interlakes Community Centre Society - $500 from Area "L"
b) Tyee Lake Community Association - $1,000 from Area "D"

5) The Board directed up to $70,000 to support a request from the McLeese Lake Recreation Commission Society for a roofing project at the McLeese Lake Community Hall be approved from the 2026 Community Hall Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation envelope of the Community Works Fund 

6) The Board approved NDIT Applications from Anahim Lake Community Association - Community Hall Upgrades and 87th Annual Anahim Lake Stampede

7) The Board deferred consideration of the draft Memorandum of Understanding between Nazko First Nation and the Cariboo Regional District to strengthen emergency management coordination to next available Indigenous Relations Committee meeting in March 2026 with the Committee being asked to provide a recommendation to the Cariboo RD Board's March 20, 2026 meeting 

8) The Board approved 2026 NCLGA Resolutions, as follows: 

* Rural Post-Secondary and Skilled Trades Training (Dir. Oakes, Area "A"), as amended 
* Highway 97 Road Safety (Dir. Bachmeier, Area "B"), as amended

9) The Board agreed to allocate up to $5,000 for the purchase, survey, title registration and lot amalgamation for a parcel of land currently owned by the City of Williams Lake at 180 N. Third Avenue (Williams Lake Library Parking Lot) 

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

11) The Board endorsed recommendations from its' Committees/Commissions, as follows: 

a) Indigenous Relations Committee - Meeting of Feb 5, 2026

* That the Indigenous Relations Framework’s guiding Commitment Statement be endorsed.

b) North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Meeting of Feb 10, 2026

* That $5,000 from the North Cariboo Economic Development budget be provided to the Billy Barker Days Society for the 50th Anniversary celebration, as per the approved business plan goal to support partnerships for economic development projects and tourism events

* That the proposed contribution agreement with the City of Quesnel for fixed route transit services in the Red Bluff area be renewed in the amount of $14,000 annually for a three-year term

* That the proposed contribution agreement with the City of Quesnel for HandyDart service in rural fringe areas of the North Cariboo be renewed in the amount of $55,000 annually for a three-year term

*That the proposed contribution agreement with the City of Quesnel for regional airport services in the North Cariboo be renewed in the amount of $80,000 annually for a three-year term

*That the proposed contribution agreement with the City of Quesnel for Visitor Information and Tourism Marketing services in the north Cariboo be renewed in the amount of $20,000 annually for a three-year term.

* North Cariboo Community Committee Appointments for 2026: 

-- That the following representatives be appointed for 2026:

South-Central Regional Advisory Committee to UNBC/CNC – Director Bachmeier
North Cariboo Seniors Council - Director Bachmeier
Quesnel Housing Solutions Table - Director Bachmeier
City of Quesnel Accessibility Committee - Director Massier
Quesnel Airport Advisory Committee – Director Glassford

* That event sponsorship be provided to the Lhtako Dene Nation for its  pow wow planned for July 31 to August 2, 2026, in the amount of $1,000 from the COVID-19 Smart Restart Funds allocated to First Nations Reconciliation.

c) North Cariboo Joint Committee - Meeting of Feb 10, 2026

*That the 2026 North Cariboo Recreation and Parks capital plan be amended to delete the changeroom renovation project ($35,000) at the soccer complex and replace it with a project to repair paving stones outside the building ($35,000) 

*That the City of Quesnel, as the Manager of the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Service, enter into the attached 5-year license of occupation and management agreement with the Quesnel Youth Soccer Association for use of the soccer complex

*That the Quesnel Rodeo Club's grant application to Northern Development Initiative Trust for a new washroom facility near the grandstand in Alex Fraser Park be supported for submission.

The Board rejected, by a 13-1 vote, a North Cariboo Joint Committee recommendation, as follows: 

That the North Cariboo Joint Advisory Committee direct staff to implement recording and posting of Joint Advisory Committee meetings on the City of Quesnel website

12) Corporate Bylaws

a) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption to Curbside Collection of Solid Waste Fees and Charges Bylaw No. 5560, 2026

b) The Board adopted Bouchie Lake Fire Protection Boundary Expansion Bylaw No. 5554, 2026

Directors' provided verbal reports.... 

Resolution to Close the Open Board Meeting:

At 2:47pm -- the Board recessed its' Open Meeting to hold a Closed Meeting as per Sections 92 + 90(2b)(iii) -- 
(between the Regional District and a First Nation or a prescribed Indigenous entity, or between a First Nation or a prescribed Indigenous entity and a third party) of the Community Charter 

At 3:13pm -- the Board resumed its Open Meeting 

And then the Board adjourned at 3:15pm

Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board Highlights - Feb 27, 2026 mtg

Present: Chair A. Richmond and Directors Oakes (entered meeting via MS Teams at 9:46am), Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais, Wagner, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Coleman, Paull, Rathor 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 gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption to: 

* Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital 2026 District Five-Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 242, 2026

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

* Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (IH – 100 Mile House Hospital Generator Replacement) Bylaw No. 243, 2026

* Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (IH – 100 Mile House Hospital Laundry Room Renovation) Bylaw No. 244, 2026

* Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (IH – Cariboo Memorial Hospital Laundry Room Renovation) Bylaw No. 245, 2026

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

* Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (IH – WL Cariboo Community Health Services Consolidation – Phase 2) Bylaw No. 246, 2026

* Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (IH – 100 Mile House Hospital Replacement of Domestic Hot Water Tanks) Bylaw No. 247, 2026

* Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (IH-Wide Digital Health) Bylaw No. 248, 2026

* Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (IH – Cariboo Memorial Hospital Meal Delivery System) Bylaw No. 249, 2026

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

Resolved: At request of Director Bachmeier (Area "B") — That Northern Health be invited to a future Board meeting … 

The Board recessed at 9:48am
The Board resumed at 1:00pm

Delegation:

Melissa LaPointe, Program Director for the Cariboo Chilcotin Healthcare Landing Program, was in attendance to provide an annual update on retention and recruitment for healthcare professionals in the Cariboo - presentation here

Following the presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued

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

Resolution to proceed to Closed Board Session:

At 1:20pm-- the Board recessed to a Closed Session as per Sections 92 + 90(1e + j - land/information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter

At 2:01pm--  the Board resumed its' Open Meeting

And then the Board adjourned at 2:03pm