Cariboo RD Board Highlights - September 11th, 2026 mtg

Present: Vice-Chair M. Neufeld; Directors Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, LeBourdais, Richmond, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries (via MS Teams), Coleman, Paull, Rathor, and Area "A" Alternate Director M. Sales

Meeting called to order at 9:59am

The Vice-Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional, unceded territory of the Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw and welcomed Area "A" Alternate Director M.Sales to today's Board Meeting

Meeting Agenda adopted - click here

Minutes of the previous Board meeting were received/adopted

The Board held a 2 minute moment of silence remembering the 25th Anniversary of 9-11 in the United States 

Business:

Development Services: 

1) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to Interlakes Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5575, 2026 and South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5576, 2026 with Final Adoption be subject to compliance with the Cariboo Regional District's Shoreland Management Policy at the sole expense of the applicant

Area L/8605 Boultbee Rd

2) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to North Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5586, 2026 

Area A/4773 Leflar Rd

3) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to Williams Lake Fringe and 150 Mile House Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5584, 2025 with Final Adoption be subject to: 

* applicant offering to enter into and entering into a covenant to ensure compliance with the CRD Shoreland Management Policy with respect to a sewage disposal system

* applicant offering to enter into and entering into a section 219 covenant to prohibit commercial access from Sheridan Place

* applicant apply for a commercial access permit from Pigeon Road and a setback permit for the quonset shop with the Ministry of Transportation and Transit

* Compliance with the CRD Shoreland Management Policy 

Area F/3003 Pigeon Road and 25 Sheridan Place

4) Following a Public Hearing -- the Board gave 3rd Reading to Williams Lake Fringe Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5571, 2026 and Williams Lake Fringe and 150 Mile House Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5572, 2026

Area D/Mile 168 Rd

5) The Board approved a Development Variance Permit for property at 6049 Mahood Lake Road in Electoral Area “L”

Community Services: 

1) The Board approved the following regarding access to the Cariboo Regional District's Community Works Fund: 

* up to $45,000 to support a request from the Big Creek Community Association for a re-siding project at the Big Creek Community Hall from the 2026 Community Hall Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation envelope of the Community Works Fund

* up to $55,000 to support a request from the McLeese Lake Recreation Commission Society for the installation of a solar panel array at the McLeese Lake Community Hall from the 2026 Community Hall and Recreation Facility Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation envelope of the Community Works Fund

Finance: 

1) The Board received/ratified the Monthly Expenditures Board Summary Report and Mastercard Summary Report for the month of August, 2026, in the amount of $4,324,134.43

Administration:

1) The Board delegated Director Anderson to speak to UBCM Resolution #EB16 – Invasive Plant Concerns during the 2026 UBCM/Union of BC Municipalities Convention 

2) The Board reviewed a request of the Horsefly River Roundtable regarding prohibition of use of biosolids on agriculture lands and directed that a letter be sent to the Horsefly River Roundtable advising that the Cariboo Regional District lacks authority to put a ban in place regarding use of biosolids on Agriculture Lands within the Cariboo Regional District but will continue to advocate on this subject

At request of Director Bachmeier (Electoral Area "B"): 

That a letter be forwarded to the Ministries of Environment/Agriculture to advise that the Cariboo Regional District opposes the use of biosolids on Agriculture Lands within the Cariboo Regional District 

3) Following discussion - the Board received its' "Information Only" items and at the request of Director Bachmeier: 

That a letter of support be forwarded to the City of New Westminister supporting their position that provincial legislation should be amended to require housing targets or density be tied to infrastructure funding 

Board recessed at 11:21am

Board resumed at 11:30am

Business, cont:

Corporate Bylaws:

1) The Board gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings to 103 Mile Water System Service Boundary Expansion Bylaw No. 5591, 2026

2) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings + Adoption to: 

* Cariboo Regional District Board Procedure Bylaw No. 5590, 2026

* Forest Grove Legion Property Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 5589, 2026

The Board received a report of Chair Wagner covering her recent activities 

Directors provided verbal reports on activities within their Electoral Areas or Municipalities 

Meeting recessed for lunch at 12:05pm

Meeting resumed at 12:55pm

Business, cont:

Closed/In-Camera Board Meeting:

At 12:55pm -- the Board recessed its' Open Meeting to conduct a Closed Session as per Sections 92 + 90(1)(j), and 90(2)(b) [information prohibited from public disclosure and confidential negotiations between the Regional District, Provincial/Federal Governments and a 3rd Party]

Resumption of Open Board Meeting:

At 1:54pm -- the Board resumed its' Open Meeting

And then the Board adjourned at 1:57pm

Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board Highlights - September 11, 2026 mtg

Present: 

Chair A. Richmond/Vice Chair J. Massier and Directors Bachmeier, Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries (via MS Teams), Coleman, Paull, Rathor, Smith and Alternate Director M. Sales (Area "A")

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 and welcomed Alternate Director Sales (Area "A") to today's Board Meeting... 

Meeting Agenda adopted - click here

Minutes of the previous CCRHD Board Meeting were adopted

Delegations:

None

Business:

1) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption to: 

* Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Directors Remuneration Bylaw No. 250, 2026 - as amended

* Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board Procedure Bylaw No. 251, 2026

2) Following discussion, the Board received its' Information-Only items

Closed/In-Camera Board Session:

At 9:36am -- the Board recessed its' Open Meeting to conduct a Closed/In-Camera Board Meeting, as per Sections 92 + 90(1a - appointment) of the Community Charter

Resumption of Open Board Session:

At 9:56am -- the Board resumed its' Open Meeting 

And then the Board adjourned at 9:58am

2026 Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Elections Nomination Period - Day 8 of 8

Today (September 11th, 2026) is the FINAL day of the 8 day local elections nomination period that candidates can submit their candidate papers for formal approval to the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy of the local government or Board of Education that they are interested in seeking a position (Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director or School Trustee).

NO nominations can be accepted after 4pm sharp today! The Chief Election Officers for the Districts of Wells/100 Mile House, the Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake, Cariboo Regional District and School Districts #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) and #28 (Quesnel) will then declare the unofficial list of candidates for the Offices of Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director and School Trustee after 4pm today with the official candidate lists announced September 18, 2026 following the 7 day period for a candidate to either withdraw or if their nomination is to be challenged in the BC Provincial Court

The following individuals have filed, as of 5:00pm on Thursday, September 10th, 2026, with the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy for the Districts of Wells/100 Mile House, Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake, Cariboo Regional District or School Districts #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) or #28 (Quesnel) (information provided by CivicInfo BC's 2026 Local Elections Candidate Portal - click here)

Wells - none

Quesnel - 

Mayor: 

Incumbent - Ron Paull 

Candidates - Brian Waters, Coralee Oakes'

Councillor: 

Incumbents - Tony Goulet, Mitch Vik, Martin Runge, Laurey-Anne Roodenburg, Deb McKelvie, Scott Elliott

Candidates - Ryan Adams, Mike Cave, Joni Davis, Jeremy Drew, Ben Freeman, Robert Leclerc, Susan McNeill, Linda Nelson, Duane Schultz, Chad Stump

School District #28 (Quesnel) - 

Incumbents: Tony Goulet, Lisa Boudreau, Julie-Anne Runge, Melissa Huska

Candidates: Vickie Campbell, Tracy Telford, Ben Freeman, Megan Graham, Kathy Beauvillier, Blanca Schorcht, Lisa Scott, Tarin Lefebvre

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin): 

Zone 1 - Ella Brown, Eric DeVries, Sheri Elgersma

Zone 2 - William Shepherd

Zone 3 - Willow Macdonald (incumbent)

Zone 4 - Melissa Coates (incumbent) 

Zone 5 - Laura Zimmerman

Zone 6 - Mike Franklin (incumbent)

Zone 7 - Jenny Philbrick 

Williams Lake - 

Mayor: 

Incumbent: Surinderpal Rathor 

Councillor: 

Incumbents: Micheal Moses, Sheila Boehm, Scott Nelson

Candidates: Jason Ryll, Paul French, Dr. Rafiullah Sahibzada, Greg Jeannotte, Billie Sheridan, Whitney Spearing, Kayla Zaruk, Charlene Hays, Cianna O'Connor

100 Mile House - 

Mayor: 

Incumbent: Maureen Pinkney

Candidates: David Jurek 

Councillor: 

Incumbents: Dave Mingo, Marty Norgren, Donna Barnett

Candidates: Aaron Fulber, Norm Knutsen, Erin Filtness, 

Cariboo Regional District - 

Area "A" - Nicole Audet (incumbent Director)

Area "B" - Barb Bachmeier (incumbent Director); Heloise Dixon-Warren and Robert Merz (Director, Area "B" candidates)

Area "C" - John Massier (incumbent Director)

Area "D" - Steve Forseth (incumbent Director)

Area "E" - Melynda Neufeld (incumbent Director)

Area "F" - Maureen LeBourdais (incumbent Director)

Area "G" - Al Richmond (incumbent Director); Corey Gilmore and Michelle Spence (Director, Area "G" candidates)

Area "H" - Margo Wagner (incumbent Director)

Area "I" - Jim Glassford (incumbent Director)

Area "J" - Tolin Pare (incumbent Director)

Area "K" - Betty Anderson (incumbent Director); Bonnie Jean Bathgate (Director, Area "K" candidate)

Area "L" - Eric DeVries (incumbent Director); Jake McLean, Bo McKinney, Dan Parker (Director, Area "L" candidates) 

Cariboo RD's Committee of the Whole Session - Sept 10th, 2026 mtg

Present: Vice-Chair M. Neufeld; Directors Audet, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, LeBourdais, Richmond, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries (via MS Teams), Paull, Rathor, Pinkney

Meeting called to order at 1:00pm

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 - click here

Minutes of the previous Committee of the Whole meeting were received/adopted

Business:

The Committee discussed the following: 

1) Director Items'

* NDIT Intake Application Deadlines (Director Forseth, Area "D")

* Durrell Road Closure/Fire Protection Impact (Director Audet, Area "A")

2) Staff Items

* Policy Committee Dissolution (Deputy CAO)

* Recreational Use of Residential Properties at Deka Lake (Manager of Planning) 

* Update on the Board's Strategic Plan (CAO) 

Following discussion, the Committee recommended the following to the Regional Board for its consideration: 

1) That the Policy Committee be dissolved in January 2027 and policy items be placed on Committee of the Whole agendas

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Directors Audet and Forseth (Areas “A” and “D”)

And then the Committee adjourned at 2:25pm

2026 Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Elections Nomination Period - Day 7 of 8

Today (September 10, 2026) is the 7th day of the 8 day local elections nomination period that candidates can submit their candidate papers for formal approval to the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy of the local government or Board of Education that they are interested in seeking a position for (Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director or School Trustee)

CivicInfoBC's 2026 Local Elections Candidates Portal (click here) reports that the following individuals have filed with the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy for the Districts of Wells/100 Mile House, Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake, Cariboo Regional District or School Districts' #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) or #28 (Quesnel) -- as of 5pm on Wednesday, September 9, 2026

Wells - none

Quesnel - 

Mayor: 

Incumbent - Ron Paull 

Candidates - Brian Waters, Coralee Oakes'

Councillor: 

Incumbents - Tony Goulet, Mitch Vik, Martin Runge, Laurey-Anne Roodenburg, Deb McKelvie

Candidates - Ryan Adams, Mike Cave, Joni Davis, Jeremy Drew, Ben Freeman, Robert Leclerc, Linda Wilson, Susan McNeill

School District #28 (Quesnel) - 

Incumbents: Tony Goulet, Lisa Boudreau, Julie-Anne Runge, Melissa Huska

Candidates: Vickie Campbell, Tracy Telford, Ben Freeman, Megan Graham, Kathy Beauvillier, Blanca Schorcht, Lisa Scott 

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin): 

Zone 1 - Ella Brown, Eric DeVries, Sheri Elgersma

Zone 2 - William Shepherd

Zone 3 - Willow Macdonald (incumbent)

Zone 4 - Melissa Coates (incumbent) vs Laura Zimmerman

Zone 5 - None 

Zone 6 - Mike Franklin (incumbent)

Zone 7 - Jenny Philbrick 

Williams Lake - 

Mayor: 

Incumbent: Surinderpal Rathor 

Councillor: 

Incumbents: Micheal Moses, Sheila Boehm, 

Candidates: Jason Ryll, Paul French, Dr. Rafiullah Sahibzada, Greg Jeannotte, Billie Sheridan, Whitney Spearing, Kayla Zaruk

100 Mile House - 

Mayor: 

Incumbent: Maureen Pinkney

Candidates: David Jurek 

Councillor: 

Incumbents: Dave Mingo, Marty Norgren, Donna Barnett

Candidates: Aaron Fulber, Norm Knutsen 

Cariboo Regional District - 

Area "A" - Nicole Audet (incumbent Director)

Area "B" - Heloise Dixon-Warren, Robert Merz (Director, Area "B" candidates)

Area "C" - John Massier (incumbent Director)

Area "D" - Steve Forseth (incumbent Director)

Area "E" - Melynda Neufeld (incumbent Director)

Area "F" - Maureen LeBourdais (incumbent Director)

Area "G" - Al Richmond (incumbent Director); Corey Gilmore (Director, Area "G" candidate)

Area "H" - Margo Wagner (incumbent Director)

Area "I" - Jim Glassford (incumbent Director)

Area "J" - Tolin Pare (incumbent Director)

Area "K" - Betty Anderson (incumbent Director); Bonnie Jean Bathgate (Director, Area "K" candidate)

Area "L" - Eric DeVries (incumbent Director); Jake McLean, Bo McKinney, Dan Parker (Director, Area "L" candidates) 

North Cariboo Joint Committee Highlights - Sept 8, 2026 mtg

Present from Quesnel Council: 

Mayor Paull; Councillors Elliott, Goulet, Roodenburg (Meeting Chair), Runge and Vik

Present from Cariboo Regional District: 

Areas A,B,C Directors N. Audet, B. Bachmeier, J. Massier

Meeting called to order at 5:30pm by the Chair

The Chair read aloud the Indigenous Acknowledgement as follows:

The North Cariboo Joint Committee is grateful to live, gather, and work in partnership with all Indigenous peoples, First Nations, Metis, and Inuit, and we honour their cultures, histories, and contributions to our vibrant community.

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous Committee meeting was received/adopted

Business: 

1) The Committee received for information the following: 

* Quarter 2 Leisure Services Budget and Statistics Report

* Quesnel's Canada Day Event - July 1, 2026

2) 2027-2031 NCRP (North Cariboo Recreation/Parks) Business and Financial Plans

The report from Quesnel's Director of Community Services regarding 2027-2031 NCRP (North Cariboo Recreation/Parks) Business and Financial Plans was presented to the Committee 

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved: That the Committee direct staff to work on a "status quo" option for the 2027-2031 NCRP (North Cariboo Recreation/Parks) Business and Financial Plans

3) Letter of Support - Quesnel Kangaroos Hockey Club's bid to host the 2027 Western Canada Savage Cup Hockey Championship (Mayor Paull)

Mayor Paull reported on this item 

Discussion ensued thereon 

Resolved: That a letter of support from the North Cariboo Joint Advisory Committee be authorized for the Quesnel Kangaroos Hockey Club's bid to host the 2027 Western Canada Savage Cup Hockey

Championship 

And then the Committee adjourned at 6:25pm

2026 Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Elections Nomination Period - Day 6 of 8

Today (September 9, 2026) is the 6th day of the 8 day local elections nomination period that candidates can submit their candidate papers for formal approval to the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy of the local government or Board of Education that they are interested in seeking a position for (Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director or School Trustee)

CivicInfoBC's 2026 Local Elections Candidates Portal (click here) reports that the following individuals have filed with the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy for the Districts of Wells/100 Mile House, Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake, Cariboo Regional District or School Districts' #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) or #28 (Quesnel) - information current as of 5pm - September 8, 2026

Wells - none

Quesnel - 

Mayor: 

Incumbent - Ron Paull 

Candidates - Brian Waters, Coralee Oakes'

Councillor: 

Incumbents - Tony Goulet, Mitch Vik, Martin Runge, Laurey-Anne Roodenburg

Candidates - Ryan Adams, Mike Cave, Joni Davis, Jeremy Drew, Ben Freeman, Robert Leclerc, Linda Wilson, Susan McNeill

School District #28 (Quesnel) - 

Incumbents: Tony Goulet, Lisa Boudreau, Julie-Anne Runge, Melissa Huska

Candidates: Vickie Campbell, Tracy Telford, Ben Freeman, Megan Graham, Kathy Beauvillier, 

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin): 

Zone 1 - Ella Brown, Eric DeVries, Sheri Elgersma

Zone 2 - None

Zone 3 - Willow Macdonald (incumbent)

Zone 4 - Melissa Coates (incumbent) vs Laura Zimmerman

Zone 5 - None 

Zone 6 - Mike Franklin (incumbent)

Zone 7 - Jenny Philbrick 

Williams Lake - 

Mayor: 

Incumbent: Surinderpal Rathor 

Councillor: 

Incumbents: Micheal Moses, 

Candidates: Jason Ryll, Paul French, Dr. Rafiullah Sahibzada, Greg Jeannotte 

100 Mile House - 

Mayor: 

Incumbent: Maureen Pinkney

Candidates: David Jurek 

Councillor: 

Incumbents: Dave Mingo, Marty Norgren, Donna Barnett

Candidates: Aaron Fulber, Norm Knutsen 

Cariboo Regional District - 

Area "A" - Nicole Audet (incumbent Director)

Area "B" - Heloise Dixon-Warren, Robert Merz (Director, Area "B" candidates)

Area "C" - John Massier (incumbent Director)

Area "D" - Steve Forseth (incumbent Director)

Area "E" - Melynda Neufeld (incumbent Director)

Area "F" - Maureen LeBourdais (incumbent Director)

Area "G" - Al Richmond (incumbent Director), Corey Gilmore (Director, Area "G" candidate)

Area "H" - Margo Wagner (incumbent Director)

Area "I" - Jim Glassford (incumbent Director)

Area "J" - Tolin Pare (incumbent Director)

Area "K" - Betty Anderson (incumbent Director), Bonnie Jean Bathgate (Director, Area "K" candidate)

Area "L" - Eric DeVries (incumbent Director), Jake McLean (Director, Area "L" candidate), Bo McKinney (Director, Area "L" candidate), Dan Parker (Director, Area "L" candidate) 

Williams Lake Council Highlights - September 8, 2026 mtg

Present in WL Council Chambers:

Mayor Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Delainey, Lyons and Nelson

Present via Zoom:

Councillors Flaspohler and Moses

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 Agenda adopted - click here

Meeting Video - click here

Minutes of the previous Council meeting were received/adopted

Delegation:

1) Janda Group appeared before Council to provide a verbal update on the Boitanio Mall Residential Housing Development

Following their presentation -- A Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor thanked the delegation for their time/information 

Business:

1) Council received/received for information the following: 

* accounts payable computer cheque and Electronic Funds Transfer listings dated August 27 and September 3, 2026 

* "Council Information Package" as of September 8, 2026

2) Council endorsed a recommendation from a previous Committee of the Whole meeting, as follows: 

Council receive for information the report of the Community Well-Being & Safety Coordinator and further:

 A. That Council use the attached summary to inform discussions and advocacy efforts at the upcoming UBCM Convention focussing on the reports top recommendations and requesting:

    i. expanded access to mental health, detox and withdrawal services in Williams Lake,

    ii. additional policing resources in Williams Lake, and

    iii. the creation of 50 additional complex care housing units in Williams Lake.

B. That, following the 2026 UBCM Convention, staff review the immediate, local level recommendations from the attached survey for potential options to consider in the near/medium term; and

C. That information gathered through the survey, interviews, and public engagement session be used to help inform future strategic planning and current community safety initiatives, as well as the 2027 budget process.”

At the request of Councillor Nelson, it was RESOLVED:

That Council request Staff to arrange a meeting between Red Road Recovery/Interior Health with the key goal to establish expanded access to mental health, addictions, involuntary and detox beds for Williams Lake 

Motion for Closed Council Meeting - 6:48pm:

It was RESOLVED:

Following adjournment of the Open Council Meeting -- Council proceed into a Closed Meeting according to Section 92 of the Community Charter for discussion of items identified under Sections 90(1) of the Community Charter, as follows:

1a - personal information about an identifiable individual who holds or is being considered for a position as an officer, employee or agent of the municipality or another position appointed by the municipality, 

1c - labour relations or other employee relations AND

1j - information that is prohibited, or information that if it were presented in a document would be prohibited, from disclosure, under Section 21 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act

And then Council adjourned at 6:49pm

Emergency Response Exercise planned at WL Regional Airport - Sept 15, 2026 from 7-9pm

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake is advising residents that a live emergency response exercise will take place at the Williams Lake Regional Airport on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, from approximately 7 to 9 p.m.

The exercise is being conducted to test and evaluate emergency response procedures and coordination among airport personnel and emergency response agencies. Participants will include the Williams Lake Fire Department, RCMP, BC Emergency Health Services, airport staff, airline partners, security personnel and flight services.

Residents may notice an increased presence of emergency vehicles, equipment and personnel travelling to and operating at the airport during the exercise. As part of the training scenario, the Williams Lake Fire Department will also extinguish one or more controlled barrel fires, which may result in some visible smoke in the area. This activity is part of the planned training exercise and there is no cause for concern.

There will be no interruption to scheduled flights or airport operations during this exercise.

Regular emergency preparedness training is a critical component of maintaining safe and effective response capability at the airport. These exercises help ensure responding agencies and airport partners can work together efficiently and effectively during real emergencies. They also provide an opportunity to test plans, strengthen coordination and identify opportunities for improvement in a controlled environment.

The City of Williams Lake thanks residents for their understanding and cooperation during the exercise.

2026 Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Elections Nomination Period - Day 5 of 8

Today (September 8, 2026) is the 5th day of the 8 day local elections nomination period that candidates can submit their candidate papers for formal approval to the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy of the local government or Board of Education that they are interested in seeking a position for (Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director or School Trustee)

CivicInfoBC's 2026 Local Elections Candidates Portal (click here) reports that the following individuals have filed with the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy for the Districts of Wells/100 Mile House, Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake, Cariboo Regional District or School Districts' #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) or #28 (Quesnel) as of 4:30pm on Friday, September 4th, 2026:

Wells - none

Quesnel - 

Mayor: 

Incumbent - Ron Paull 

Candidates - Brian Waters

Councillor: 

Incumbents - Tony Goulet, Mitch Vik, Martin Runge

Candidates - Ryan Adams, Mike Cave, Joni Davis, Jeremy Drew, Ben Freeman, Robert Leclerc, Linda Wilson

School District #28 (Quesnel) - 

Incumbents: Tony Goulet, Lisa Boudreau, Julie-Anne Runge

Candidates: Vickie Campbell, Tracy Telford, Ben Freeman, Megan Graham, Kathy Beauvillier, 

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - none

Williams Lake - 

Mayor: 

Incumbent: Surinderpal Rathor 

Councillor: 

Incumbents: Micheal Moses, 

Candidates: Jason Ryll 

100 Mile House - 

Mayor: 

Incumbent: Maureen Pinkney

Candidates: David Jurek 

Councillor: 

Incumbents: Dave Mingo, Marty Norgren

Candidates: Aaron Fulber, Norm Knutsen 

Cariboo Regional District - 

Area "A" - Nicole Audet (incumbent Director)

Area "B" - Heloise Dixon-Warren (Director, Area "B" candidate)

Area "C" - John Massier (incumbent Director)

Area "D" - Steve Forseth (incumbent Director)

Area "E" - Melynda Neufeld (incumbent Director)

Area "F" - Maureen LeBourdais (incumbent Director)

Area "G" - Al Richmond (incumbent Director), Corey Gilmore (Director, Area "G" candidate)

Area "H" - Margo Wagner (incumbent Director)

Area "I" - Jim Glassford (incumbent Director)

Area "J" - Tolin Pare (incumbent Director)

Area "K" - Betty Anderson (incumbent Director)

Area "L" - Eric DeVries (incumbent Director), Jake McLean (Director, Area "L" candidate)

Pinkney vs Jurek for 100 Mile House Mayor

In what was looking like a 2nd acclamation for current 100 Mile House Mayor Maureen Pinkney going into the 2026-2030 term is now resulting in a "battle of visions" for the future of 100 Mile House ... 

Mayor Pinkney's sole opponent (although this can change before Friday, Sept 11, 2026 at 4pm sharp!) is 100 Mile House realtor David Jurek 

Both Jurek/Pinkney have taken to social media to outline their vision/plans for 100 Mile House - should they be elected as Mayor of 100 Mile House on October 17, 2026

As an outsider -- Mr. Jurek's campaign to be 100 Mile House Mayor is very impressive... but I know current 100 Mile House Mayor Maureen Pinkney is up for the challenge to hang on to her seat as a life-long resident of the South Cariboo 

David Jurek's website can be viewed here.  In addition: he has published a quick 1 minute video about his mayoral candidacy which, as of this writing (September 7, 2026), has received 310 "likes", 30 "shares" and 105 comments on Facebook - view that here

Meanwhile, 4 people so far have put in their nomination papers for the 4 District of 100 Mile Councillor seats -- 

i) Dave Mingo (incumbent)

ii) Marty Norgren (incumbent) 

iii) Aaron Fulber of Lone Butte (Cariboo RD Area "L" unincorporated community)

iv) Norm Knutsen of 108 Mile House (Cariboo RD Area "G" unincorporated community) 

Current incumbent District of 100 Mile Councillors Donna Barnett and Jenni Guimond have yet to state if they plan to seek re-election this October... 

Deadline for the current 2026 District of 100 Mile House Council Nomination Period concludes this Friday, September 11, 2026 at 4pm sharp! with General Voting Day set for Saturday, October 17, 2026

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of September 8-11, 2026

Following the BC Labour Day Long Weekend -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments will be holding meetings during the week of September 8-11, 2026, as follows:

Wells - Meetings of Wells District Council on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 in Wells Council Chambers/Zoom (4243 Sanders Avenue)

Closed Session from 2-3pm to discuss HR matters and Strategic Planning

Open Session from 3:15pm to 4:30pm

When available - the Open Meeting Agenda can be viewed here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 6pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda: 

* Delegation: Janda Group re Boitanio Mall Residential Housing Development Verbal Update

* September 1, 2026 Committee of the Whole recommendation for endorsement: Community Safety Concerns - Public Safety Feedback

* Closed Council Meeting - Sections 90(1a - appointment, 1c - labour, 1j - information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

100 Mile House - Following meetings to occur in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House) on Tuesday, September 8, 2026

a) 100 Mile Development Corporation at 4:30pm.  On the Agenda: 

* VIC (Visitor Information Centre) Volunteers / Staffing 

* Development Corporation Budget Amendment 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

b) District Municipal Council at 5:30pm.  On the Agenda: 

* Delegation: 108 Heritage Site 

* High Zone Booster Station 

* FireSmart August 2026 Report

* 5 Bylaws for Adoption 

* 100 Mile House Museum Lease Agreement 

* Closed/In-Camera Council Session -- Section 90(1c - labour) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District: 

a) North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 3:15pm in the CRD Quesnel Office (101-410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: BC Transit 

* North Cariboo Community Committee Reports

View the full Meeting Agenda here

b) North Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda: 

* Quarter 2 Leisure Services Budget and Statistics Report

* Event Summary – Canada Day 2026

* 2027-2031 NCRP/North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Business and Financial Plans

* Proposed Letter of Support -- Quesnel Kangaroos Hockey Club's bid to host the 2027 Western Canada Savage Cup Hockey Championship

View the full Meeting Agenda here

c) Policy Committee - Regular Meeting on Thursday, September 10th, 2026 at 10:00am in the Cariboo RD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

* Tangible Assets Policy

View the full Meeting Agenda here

d) Committee of the Whole (Cariboo RD Board) - Regular Meeting on Thursday, September 10th, 2026 at 1pm in the Cariboo RD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

* Discussion Items -- NDIT Intake Application Deadlines (Dir. Forseth), Durrell Road Closure/Fire Protection Impact (Dir. Audet)

* Dissolution of Policy Committee Discussion

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Meeting will NOT be livestreamed but is open to the public to observe 

e) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District (CCRHD) - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, September 11th, 2026 at 9:30am in the Cariboo RD Boardroom.  On the Agenda: 

* Bylaw Amendments for 3 Readings/Adoption -- CCRHD Remuneration and Procedure Bylaws

* Information-only items

View the full Meeting Agenda here

f) Cariboo Regional District - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, September 11th, 2026 at 9:45am or upon recess/adjournment of the CCRHD Board Meeting - whichever occurs first - in the Cariboo RD Boardroom. On the Agenda: 

* Land Use Matters (Area Directors' only)

* Community Works Fund agreements with McLeese Lake Recreation Commission and Big Creek Community Hall 

* Agriculture Biosolids Use Prohibition 

* Committee Recommendation (South Cariboo Joint Committee) for endorsement

* Bylaws -- 103 Mile Water System Service Boundary Expansion Bylaw No. 5591, 2026 (3 Readings); 

Cariboo Regional District Board Procedure Bylaw No. 5590, 2026 (3 Readings/Adoption), Forest Grove Legion Property Tax Exemption Bylaw (3 Readings/Adoption)

* Closed/In-Camera Board Session - Section 90(2b - confidential negotiations between local government, provincial/federal governments and a 3rd Party) of the Community Charter 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2026 Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Elections Nomination Period - Day 4 of 8

Today (September 4, 2026) is the 4th day of the 8 day local elections nomination period that candidates can submit their candidate papers for formal approval to the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy of the local government or Board of Education that they are interested in seeking a position for (Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director or School Trustee)

CivicInfoBC's 2026 Local Elections Candidates Portal (click here) reports that the following individuals have filed with the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy for the Districts of Wells/100 Mile House, Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake, Cariboo Regional District or School Districts' #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) or #28 (Quesnel)

After 4:30pm today -- candidates for Mayor, Councillor, School Trustee or Electoral Area Director can resume submitting their nomination forms to the local Chief Election Officer or their Deputy on Tuesday, September 8th, 2026

Wells - none

Quesnel - 

Mayor - Ron Paull (incumbent Mayor), Brian Waters (Mayoral candidate); 

Councillor - Tony Goulet (incumbent Councillor); Ben Freeman (Councillor candidate), Mike Cave (Councillor candidate), Jeremy Drew (Councillor candidate), Robert Leclerc (Councillor candidate), Linda Nelson (Councillor candidate)

School District #28 (Quesnel) - Tony Goulet/Lisa Boudreau (incumbent Trustees), Vickie Campbell, Tracy Telford, Ben Freeman, Megan Graham (Trustee candidates)

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - none

Williams Lake - 

Mayor: Surinderpal Rathor (incumbent Mayor)

Councillor: Jason Ryll (Councillor candidate)

100 Mile House - 

Mayor: Maureen Pinkney (incumbent Mayor), David Jurek (Mayoral candidate)

Councillor: Aaron Fulber (Councillor candidate), Norm Knutsen (Councillor candidate) 

Cariboo Regional District - 

Area "A" - Nicole Audet (incumbent Director)

Area "B" - Heloise Dixon-Warren (Director, Area "B" candidate)

Area "C" - John Massier (incumbent Director)

Area "D" - Steve Forseth (incumbent Director)

Area "E" - Melynda Neufeld (incumbent Director)

Area "F" - Maureen LeBourdais (incumbent Director)

Area "H" - Margo Wagner (incumbent Director)

Area "I" - Jim Glassford (incumbent Director)

Area "J" - Tolin Pare (incumbent Director)

Area "K" - Betty Anderson (incumbent Director)

Area "L" - Eric DeVries (incumbent Director)

Quesnel Council Highlights - September 1, 2026 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Housing Solutions Table Report

Council asked staff to explore other options for a warming shelter at 395 Elliott Street or another suitable location. Staff will also confirm whether BC Housing funding would still be available if the topic comes back to Council on September 22, 2026.

North Cariboo Highway Rescue Society Licence of Occupation

Council approved entering into a Licence of Occupation agreement with the North Cariboo Highway Rescue Society for their use of the property at 298 Evans Drive in Quesnel for a five-year term.

Political Campaign Sign Bylaw – 2026

Because of construction on the Johnston Bridge, Council approved North Star Road as an alternate location for campaign signs during the 2026 election. It will replace the Johnston Bridge Loop location listed in Political Campaign Sign Bylaw 1875, 2026.

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Quesnel Minor Baseball Association Licence of Use and Occupation

Council approved entering into a Licence of Use and Occupation agreement with the Quesnel Minor Baseball Association for their use of the clubhouse building adjacent to the ball field known as Rotary Ball Park in Lebourdais Park for a five-year term.

2026 Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Elections Nomination Period - Day 3 of 8

Today (September 3, 2026) is the 3rd day of the 8 day local elections nomination period that candidates can submit their candidate papers for formal approval to the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy of the local government or Board of Education that they are interested in seeking a position for (Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director or School Trustee)

CivicInfoBC's 2026 Local Elections Candidates Portal (click here) reports that the following individuals have filed with the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy for the Districts of Wells/100 Mile House, Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake, Cariboo Regional District or School Districts' #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) or #28 (Quesnel)

Wells - none

Quesnel - Brian Waters (Mayoral candidate), Ron Paull (incumbent Mayor); Ben Freeman (Councillor candidate), Tony Goulet (incumbent Councillor). 

School District #28 (Quesnel) - Tony Goulet/Lisa Boudreau (incumbent Trustees), Vickie Campbell and Tracy Telford (Trustee candidates)

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - none

Williams Lake - Surinderpal Rathor (incumbent Mayor)

100 Mile House - Maureen Pinkney (incumbent Mayor), David Jurek (Mayoral candidate), Aaron Fulber (Councillor candidate), Norm Knutsen (Councillor candidate) 

Cariboo Regional District - 

Area "A" - Nicole Audet (incumbent Director)

Area "B" - Heloise Dixon-Warren (Director, Area "B" candidate)

Area "D" - Steve Forseth (incumbent Director)

Area "E" - Melynda Neufeld (incumbent Director)

Area "F" - Maureen LeBourdais (incumbent Director)

Area "H" - Margo Wagner (incumbent Director)

Area "I" - Jim Glassford (incumbent Director)

Area "J" - Tolin Pare (incumbent Director)

Area "K" - Betty Anderson (incumbent Director)

Area "L" - Eric DeVries (incumbent Director)

Campfire Ban RESCINDED inside City of Williams Lake

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake has rescinded its campfire ban within City limits, effective immediately.

The ban, which was implemented on April 24, 2026, has been lifted following guidance from the Cariboo Fire Centre, improved weather conditions and increased availability of firefighting resources throughout the region.

Evan Dean, Director of Protective Services and Fire Chief, said the decision reflects current fire conditions and aligns with the recent rescinding of the Category 1 campfire prohibition by the BC Wildfire Service throughout the Cariboo Fire Centre.

“When the ban was introduced in April, it was in response to unusually dry conditions and several human-caused fires in the community,” Dean said. “With cooler temperatures, recent precipitation and greater resource availability across the province, conditions have improved to the point where the ban can now be safely lifted.”

Residents are reminded that campfires must be used responsibly and always attended to. Anyone who has a campfire should ensure it is completely extinguished before leaving the area.

A campfire is defined as a fire no larger than 0.5 metres high by 0.5 metres wide and used for recreational purposes.

While the campfire ban has been rescinded, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant as weather conditions and fire hazards can change quickly. The Williams Lake Fire Department will continue to monitor local conditions throughout the remainder of the fire season.

For more information, please contact the Williams Lake Fire Department at 250-392-4321.

Coralee Oakes runs for Mayor of Quesnel

Courtesy of Coralee Oakes - candidate for Mayor of Quesnel:

Coralee Oakes has officially announced her campaign for Mayor of Quesnel, focused on community safety, economic growth, workforce development, responsible infrastructure planning and strong partnerships with other levels of government. 

Oakes says her campaign is rooted in a belief that Quesnel's future depends on pragmatic, experienced, solution-orientated leadership willing to tackle challenges while recognizing the tremendous opportunities that exist within the community. 

“I believe Quesnel can be a safe, affordable and growing community where families and young people can build a future, seniors are well cared for, businesses can invest and create good jobs, and residents can have confidence in the services their city provides,” said Oakes. 

Oakes brings 18 years of experience serving residents in elected positions at different levels of government, including Quesnel City Council, the Cariboo Regional District and the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. She also served in Cabinet as Minister responsible for Local Government and later as Minister responsible for Small Business and Reducing Red Tape. In addition to her government experience, Oakes spent 14 years as Manager of the Quesnel & District Chamber of Commerce and is trained as a Business Retention and Expansion specialist. “I've had the privilege of serving this community in many different capacities,” said Oakes. “I've learned that leadership is about listening, bringing people together, understanding responsibilities and finding practical ways to deliver results.” 

Community safety is one of the campaign's central priorities. Oakes is proposing stronger coordination among the RCMP, municipal bylaw, Fire and Emergency Services, outreach teams and community service providers. It also includes working with senior levels of government to prioritize Quesnel for RCMP recruitment.  Coralee proposes a regional (Prince George, Williams Lake and Quesnel)  Repeat Property Crime Offenders pilot based on the Federal online reporting tool to address car theft, amendment of bylaws to address street disorder and enforcement.  Oakes would like to increase pressure and build more partners to deliver accessible, timely addiction treatment and recovery services, including in-patient treatment beds, step-down care and sober-living opportunities. “Community safety requires both accountability and effective supports,” said Oakes. “We need to address public safety while also working toward better outcomes for people struggling with addiction, mental health and homelessness. The status quo is not working.”

Oakes says City Hall needs a stronger business-focused perspective. Her campaign emphasizes business retention, economic diversification, industrial land development, reducing unnecessary red tape, improving development timelines and responsible fiscal management. “Local businesses are the foundation of our economy,” said Oakes. “Business retention is every bit as important as attracting new investment. Existing businesses create jobs, support families and contribute enormously to our community.” 

She also commits to continuing strong advocacy for Quesnel's forestry sector while exploring opportunities for manufacturing and economic diversification.  “I see Quesnel becoming the service hub for the expanding Mining sector in the region and would like to encourage other Natural Resource Corporate Operating Offices to re-locate to Quesnel, similar to West Fraser.”

Building Quesnel's Future Workforce development is another major pillar of the campaign. Oakes is proposing a Mayor’s Task Force that will develop a workforce strategy that brings together employers, Northern Health, RCMP, School District 28, CNC, UNBC, First Nations education partners and community organizations to identify labour shortages and expand local access to education and training. “Our goal should be straightforward,” said Oakes. “Give people the opportunity to train locally, find meaningful work locally and build their future in Quesnel.” 

Oakes believes population growth can strengthen Quesnel's tax base and help maintain and improve municipal infrastructure and services. However, she says growth must be planned rather than simply reacted to. She proposes a regional readiness plan to identify infrastructure needs, service pressures and community impacts while these major regional projects move forward. “Growth should be planned-not simply reacted to,” said Oakes. “We need to understand what Quesnel will need tomorrow, not just what requires investment today.” 

A key theme throughout Oakes' campaign is collaboration. She says her experience working in local and provincial government has taught her the importance of respecting jurisdictional responsibilities while advocating strongly for local communities. “I believe my past experiences provide me with a unique set of skills and relationships that will support Quesnel during this pivotal and volatile time,” she said. “I don't believe every problem can be solved overnight. But I do believe we have to try.” Oakes says she is committed to developing a short-, medium- and long-term strategic plan with measurable priorities, clear responsibilities and transparent reporting to residents. “Quesnel is my hometown and I care deeply for it’s success. I believe in our people. I believe in our businesses. And I believe our strongest future is still ahead of us.”