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!!

Cariboo RD, Quesnel, Williams Lake to host Candidate Workshops in June 2026

May 19, 2026

7:00am

In Late June 2026 -- the Cariboo Regional District, in partnership with the Cities of Quesnel and Williams Lake, will be hosting Candidate Workshops in Quesnel, Williams Lake and 100 Mile House -- in advance of the 2026 Local Elections to be held in BC to elect new Mayors, Councillors and Area Directors on October 17, 2026, for prospective candidates. The workshop will be facilitated by former Golden, BC Mayor Christina Benty - full details on the workshops at https://www.cariboord.ca/leadwell

Elections BC, which administers local government election campaign financing rules for BC Local Elections, will be hosting a Information Session for those running in BC Local Elections this October on Thursday, May 28, 2026. Details: https://elections.bc.ca/session/local-can-session/information-session-financing-and-advertising-rules-local-candidates/

Other Information for Prospective Candidates - Mayor, Councillor, Area Director:

1) Elections BC - general timeline for BC Local Elections in October 2026. https://elections.bc.ca/local-elections/2026-general-local-elections/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23534690058&gbraid=0AAAAACKxakdKNG14lXYgIpdGBtgpwuNV0&gclid=Cj0KCQjwlLDQBhDjARIsAPlIefGKbW4ii9V5VzHlPj_t7kQsCCpDBuiekSSe9dDFhWVo0rB7JW3W5ugaAofzEALw_wcB

2) City of Quesnel Local General Elections (Mayor/Councillors) 2026 -- https://www.quesnel.ca/city-hall/elections/2026-local-government-elections

3) City of Williams Lake Local General Elections (Mayor/Councillors) 2026 --https://www.williamslake.ca/562/Election-2026

4) Cariboo Regional District Area Director Elections 2026 --

https://www.cariboord.ca/regional-government/elections-and-voting/general-local-elections/

5) District of 100 Mile House Local Elections 2026 (Mayor/Councillor) -- https://100milehouse.com/city-hall/2026-elections

6) District of Wells Local Elections 2026 (Mayor/Councillor) -- https://www.wells.ca

2026 BC Rural Property Taxes (Province of BC, Cariboo RD, Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District)

May 18, 2026
2:00pm

Post as a result of concerns about huge increases to rural property taxes for 2026, as posted in a Williams Lake Facebook group -- explanation below:

Later this month (if you haven't received it already) -- rural residents' will begin to receive their 2026 property tax notices from the Province of BC via the Surveyor of Taxes...

By way of background:

The Cariboo Regional District consists of 4 municipalities (Wells, Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile House) and 12 electoral areas with over 62,000 residents. It has over 124 budgets providing a range of local, sub-regional and regional services

Regional Districts do not have the authority to collect taxes directly. Instead taxes are collected by the Province of British Columbia (Province) for services provided by the regional district. The Province is responsible for collecting taxes in the Cariboo RD's 12 Electoral Areas. The Cariboo Regional District's member municipalities (Wells, Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile House) collect taxes on behalf of the regional district.

Regional District Services can be explained in this way --

a) Regional Services are provided to all municipalities and electoral areas such as Administration, Libraries

b) Sub-regional services involve two or more jurisdictions such as Recreation, Arts/Culture, Victim Services

c) Local services are only provided to electoral areas and including such things like utilities (water/sewer), streetlights, fire protection, etc,

The 2026 tax notice is from the Province of BC, and includes taxes for schools, roads, policing and regional district services. The following items appear on your tax notice:

a) Provincial School Tax—collected by the Province for providing education in BC. 2026 Provincial School Taxes can be viewed at https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/oic/oic_cur/0124_2026

Provincial Rural Tax—collected to fund provincial services in rural areas including maintenance and snow removal for public secondary roads (not highways or private roads). 2026 Provincial Rural Tax details can be viewed at https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/oic/oic_cur/0125_2026

Police Tax—collected to fund police protection services to all rural property owners. 2026 Provincial Police Taxes can be viewed at https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/oic/oic_cur/0123_2026 (Column 3 - #1 is Residential Rate for 2026)

Local Services Area—local services are listed on your notice for services within a local service boundary, consisting of:

Cariboo RD Local Services - taxes rates for these can be viewed at https://www.cariboord.ca/media/bmnawuf4/2025-vs-2026-comparative-ad-valorem-tax-requisition-rate-details.pdf as well, the Cariboo Regional District's Budget Process can be viewed at https://www.cariboord.ca/regional-government/budget-and-finances/budget-process-and-feedback/

Finally -- each of the Cariboo RD's 12 Electoral Areas had 2026 Budget Flyers mailed to individual property owners. These can be accessed at https://www.cariboord.ca/regional-government/budget-and-finances/budget-2026/

Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District—provides capital funding to Northern/Interior Health Authorities for healthcare in our region on a cost share basis (usually 40% local ratepayers and 60% Province of BC). The Hospital Board is comprised of all members from the Cariboo Regional District Board (16 members) as well as Thompson Nicola RD Area "E" Director Jim Smith. The tax rate for the CCRHD in 2026 will remain the same at $75 per $100,000 of residential property assessment

BC Assessment Authority—a Crown corporation that sets all property assessment values in the province. Its costs are recovered by this tax.

Municipal Finance Authority—coordinates financial borrowing for all local governments in the province.

How are property taxes calculated --

Through the budget preparation process, the Cariboo Regional District determines how much funding is required to deliver services. This total funding amount is provided to the Province of BC, for rural/electoral area taxation, which is responsible for calculating and collecting taxes on behalf of the Cariboo Regional District. The Province uses a formula, which is based on property assessment data, to determine how much tax each property must pay. BC Assessment determines property values and these values are based on property location, size, age and other features such as comparable sales prices and real estate market information

Rural Taxes are due on July 2nd, 2026 and can only be paid at a ServiceBC office in Quesnel, Williams Lake or 100 Mile House. The Cariboo Regional District is NOT able to accept payment for Rural Taxes. You can also pay online at your financial institution or via eTaxBC -- https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/taxes/etaxbc If you are looking for different payment options via the Province, contact them at 1-888-355-2700 or via their website at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/taxes/property-taxes/annual-property-tax/defer-taxes The Surveyor of Taxes can be contact by phone at 1-888-355-2700'

Finally -- if you had questions about your rural property tax bill as it relates to either Cariboo RD or Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Budgets -- you can reach out to your local Cariboo RD Area Director or Municipal Director. To contact them, go to https://www.cariboord.ca/contacts-directory/

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments' Meetings | Week of May 19-22, 2026

Following the Victoria Day Long Weekend - the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments will be holding meetings during the shortened work week of May 19-22, 2026

Cariboo Regional District -- 

1) North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus -- Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 3:00pm in the Cariboo RD Quesnel Office (101-410 Kinchant St, Quesnel)

On the Agenda: 

* Request for Support from Gold Rush Cycling Club - 2026 BC High School Mountain Bike Championships

* Request for Support: North Cariboo Agricultural Marketing Association (FARMED) [Deferred from previous meeting]

* Contribution Agreement Renewal with City of Quesnel for Cemetery Services

* Discussion Items -- 2026 Canada Day Invitation - City of Quesnel; North Cariboo Grants for Assistance

* Reports from Liaison to North Cariboo Community Committees' 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) North Cariboo Joint Committee -- Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  

On the Agenda: 

* Indigenous Acknowledgement at Committee meetings

* 2026 Q1 Budget Update

* Movie Night in the Park (LeBourdais Park) 

* Financial Impact of Reduced ARC Admission Fees for Adults Aged 70+

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Finally -- Cariboo-Chilcotin Mayors, Councillors and Area Directors will be in the City of Prince George from May 20-22, 2026 to attend the 2026 North Central Local Government Association's (NCLGA) AGM/Convention (the last one for the 2022-2026 local government elected term) 

View the full AGM/Convention Agenda here

At the 2026 NCLGA Convention -- NCLGA Delegates will consider 40 Resolutions (2 from NCLGA Executive and 38 from NCLGA Members - Municipalities/Regional Districts) for consideration of endorsement.  View the full 2026 NCLGA Resolution List here

Role of an Improvement District Board of Trustees - 2026 edition

This week (May 10-16, 2026) is Local Government Awareness Week in British Columbia...

Today - we will review Improvement Districts....

Improvement Districts were created before the time of Regional Districts' and as far back as the 1920's, generally in Rural BC for specific services (ie: water/sewer, fire protection) within a defined service area.  According to CivicInfo BC records -- there are 189 Improvement Districts in British Columbia today with none remaining in the Cariboo-Chilcotin (there were 3 at one point --Glendale, Lexington and one at Hagensborg, all operating a water system but since have dissolved in favour of the nearby Regional Districts' -- Cariboo/Central Coast RD's as well as into the City of Williams Lake) 

Part 17 (Sections 673-734) of the Local Government Act apply as the legislation for Improvement Districts' in BC - click here while you can have a comprehensive overview of Improvement Districts', as provided by the Province of BC - click here

Improvement Districts' have a Board of Trustees - exact numbers depend on what is contained in the Improvement District's Letters Patent - and they generally have monthly meetings plus an Annual General Meeting each year.  They are also required to have designated a Corporate Officer & Financial Officer as part of their staffing - click here

Unlike Municipal Councils/Regional District Boards' -- they are not afforded the same opportunity to attend local government training opportunities like Area Associations, LGLA, UBCM or FCM but the Province of BC has created an Improvement District Trustee Handbook - click here

One of the recent challenges to Improvement Districts' is that Districts' who operate water system and consequently are subject to Provincial drinking water rules are finding it difficult to operate their water systems to BC standards WITHOUT provincial or federal government grant support.  That support is not forthcoming as provincial/federal government financial grants for water/sewer systems are only provided to Municipal Councils or Regional District Boards'.  Many Municipal Councils'/Regional District Boards' have brought up this issue at the Resolution Debates at Union of BC Municipalities Conventions and unfortunately have seen their Resolutions defeated.... but I'm sure the conversation will continue onward...

I want to thank everyone who serves in the Improvement District system - whether at the governance table or at a Staff level.  Your contributions are not recognized publicly in a substantive way but should be, given the amount of time you put into the Improvement District governance structure...