Cariboo RD Board Highlights - June 19, 2026 mtg

Present:

Chair M. Wagner; Directors N. Audet, B. Bachmeier, J. Massier, S. Forseth, M. Neufeld, M. LeBourdais, A. Richmond, J. Glassford, T. Pare, B. Anderson, E. De Vries, R. Paull, SPS Rathor, M. Pinkney and Alternate Director D. Funk (District of Wells)

Meeting called to order at 9:45am

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 Funk to today's Board Meeting

Meeting Agenda adopted, as amended (In-Camera Session) - click here

Minutes of the previous Board meeting were received/adopted

Delegations - starting at 11:00am:

1) Dan Visser, Project Manager, Zawad Abedin, Lheidli T’enneh First Nation Administration, and Jodi MacMillan appeared before the Board to provide an update on the Nilhts'i Ecoener Wind Project, a 144MW wind project near Hixon BC

2) Eva Navrot, Regional Mentor, BC Community Response Networks (BCCRN) appeared before the Board to provide information on the BCCRN Program. 

Following each delegation - a Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair thanked each delegation for their time/information

Business:

1) Following a Public Hearing -- the Board approved 3rd Reading to Williams Lake Fringe Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5552, 2026 and Williams Lake Fringe and 150 Mile House Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5553, 2026 (Area D/1830 Fox Mountain Rd)... 

2) The Board rejected DVP #21-2026 for property at 6472 Green Lake Rd North within Electoral Area "L" as approval would increase the risk of flood hazard to the proposed dwelling and alternative siting options are available

3) The Board approved Provincial Agricultural Land Commission applications with a recommendation to the Provincial Agriculture Land Commission to approve the applications, as follows: 

* Colpitt Road within Electoral Area "E"

* 3137 Zschiedrich Rd within Electoral Area “A”

The Board deferred a Provincial Agricultural Land Commission application at 4670 Quesnel-Hydraulic Rd within Electoral Area "A" for up to 60 days 

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

* $1,000 from Area "F" for Horsefly Board of Trade (purchase AV projector)

* $950 divided equally between Areas "A" and “B” for Quesnel Quilters’ Guild (purchase fabric for Comfort Quilt Program)

5) The Board approved the Tatla Lake Community Association’s grant application to Northern Development Initiative Trust’s Community Places stream for $30,000 to upgrade the gymkhana grounds

6) The Board received/ratified the Monthly Expenditures Board Summary Report and Mastercard Summary Report for the month of May 2026, in the amount of $1,956,777.92

7) The Board approved for public inspection the Cariboo Regional District’s 2025 Statement of Financial Information Report 

8) The Board received its' Information Only items and following discussion, took no further action 

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

a) Central Cariboo Rural Directors 'Caucus - May 28, 2026 meeting: 

* That event sponsorship be provided to the Williams Lake First Nation for its pow wow planned for June 19-21, 2026, in the amount of $2,000 from the COVID-19 Smart Restart Funds allocated to First Nations Reconciliation.

b) Central Cariboo Joint Committee - May 27, 2026 meeting: 

* That the Naming Rights Policy for the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex be adopted as presented and that staff develop revenue-generating opportunities based on the policy framework

* That the 2026 Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services Capital Plan be amended to reallocate $60,000 for the replacement of the condenser gasket seal, to overhauling of the compressors at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex twin ice arenas.

* That the following changes be made to the Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services Financial and Business Plans:

1.  That the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex vertical lift project be moved from 2026 to 2027

2.  That the upgrading of the Gibraltar Room walls be moved from 2027 to 2028

3.  That the replacement netting for the Twin Arenas at the Cariboo Memorial Complex be moved from 2026 to 2027

4.  That the remaining 2025 Operational deficit for the Cariboo Memorial Complex be allocated to budgeted surplus.

* That the proposed 2026 capital projects for the Williams Lake Slo-Pitch League, Williams Lake Soccer Associations, Williams Lake Minor Fastball League, and the Cariboo Disc Golf Club be approved, including:

the Williams Lake Slo-Pitch League will install lights on Field 3 if funding is secured or purchase field surface material if the lighting project is delayed

the Williams Lake Soccer Associations will purchase new goal nets.

The Williams Lake Minor Fastball League will purchase infield rock.

The Cariboo Disc Golf Club will construct a storage shed.

And that $10,000 for the Williams Lake Slo-pitch League, $10,000 for the Williams Lake Soccer Associations, $5,000 for the Williams Lake Minor Fastball League and $5,000 for the Cariboo Disc Golf Club for the capital projects be approved as allocated in the Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services (CCRLS) budget and business plan for 2026

* That the occupancy agreement with the Williams Lake Slo-pitch League be amended to allow lighting to be installed on slo-pitch Field 3 and the agreement with the Williams Lake Minor Fast Ball League be amended to allow a caretaker trailer to be placed in the minor fastball area for maintenance and security. Further, that the occupancy agreements with the Williams Lake Soccer Associations, Williams Lake Slo-pitch League, Williams Lake Minor Fast Ball League and Cariboo Disc Golf Club each be renewed as amended for a five-year term and that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreements.

* That the Esler Recreation Advisory Commission members for 2026 be appointed as follows: Linda Barbondy for the Williams Lake Slo-Pitch League, Brian Hansen for the Williams Lake Soccer Associations, Nick Surette for the Williams Lake Minor Fastball Association, Matt Lebourdais for the Cariboo Disc Golf Club, and Bruce Newbery and Pierre Mayette for the Esler Community Association

* That the Performances in the Park event support and delivery agreement between the Cariboo Regional District, City of Williams Lake, the Williams Lake First Nation and the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society be renewed as amended for a three-year term including an annual payment of $22,000 to the Society for eight summer events and further that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreement.”

* That the Performances in the Park event support and delivery agreement between the Cariboo Regional District, City of Williams Lake, the Williams Lake First Nation and the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society be renewed as amended for a three-year term including an annual payment of $22,000 to the Society for eight summer events and further that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the agreement

c) South Cariboo Airport Commission - May 27, 2026 meeting: 

* That Commissioner Richmond be appointed to the position of Chair of the South Cariboo Regional Airport Commission for the year 2026. Further, that Directors Al Richmond, Margo Wagner, Eric de Vries and Maureen Pinkney, and members-at-large Les Kallos, Larry Davis and Greg Atherton be appointed to the Commission

* That the South Cariboo Regional Airport Fees and Charges Bylaw no. 5516 be revised to incorporate a new fee category for commercial advertising on airport signage, with an annual fee set at $300 plus applicable taxes for a five-year term per advertising space for on-airport businesses and an annual fee set at $600 plus applicable taxes for a five-year term per advertising space for off-airport businesses

* That the South Cariboo Regional Airport Fees and Charges Bylaw no. 5516 be revised to include a rate of $200 per day for rental of space in the terminal, and $100 per day for airside parking of a fuel bowser with a five-day minimum charge and $0.10/litre of bowser fuel pumped. All rates are plus applicable taxes

* That the access and use agreement with Wing and Rotor be renewed for a five-year term and amended to reflect an updated annual fee of $2,127 based on an annual licence rate of $1,000 base fee plus $1.93 per square meter for licence of land under agreement as per the current fees and charges bylaw

d) North Cariboo Joint Committee - June 9, 2026 meeting: 

* That the 2026 North Cariboo Recreation and Parks capital plan be amended to delete the heating and ventilation project ($45,000) at the Event Centre in Alex Fraser Park and replace it with a project to replace the tube heaters in the Agriplex ($45,000).

* That the North Cariboo Joint Advisory Committee approves an amendment to the 2026 North Cariboo Recreation and Parks capital plan be amended to delete four Bouchie Lake projects: the roof access ladder ($10,000), picnic tables ($8,000), gravel road ($5,000), and top dressing of the ball field ($5,000) and replace them with a project to replace the irrigation system for the Bouchie Lake ball field ($28,000).

Directors reported on their recent activities within Electoral Areas/Municipalities 

At 10:58am -- Directors Reports’ paused until after lunch 

Delegations from 11am - 12pm 

Meeting recessed at 12:00pm

Meeting resumed at 12:45pm 

Directors’ Reports continued… 

At 1:14pm — the Board recessed its’ Open Meeting to hold a Closed Meeting, as per Sections 92 + 90(2b - confidential negotiations between the Regional District, Provincial/Federal Governments’ and/or a 3rd Party) 

At 1:42pm — the Board resumed its Open Meeting 

And then the Board adjourned at 1:43pm 

Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board Highlights - June 19, 2026 mtg

Present: 

Chair A. Richmond/Vice Chair J. Massier and Directors Audet, Bachmeier, Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais, Wagner, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Paull, Rathor, Pinkney, Smith and Alternate Director D. Funk (District of Wells)

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 Funk 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 received Information-Only items and following discussion, took no further action... 

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

And then the Board adjourned at 9:33am

Tl’esqox (Toosey) Releases Report Two Years after 2024 Landslide

Courtesy of the Tsilhqot'in National Government:

Nearly two years after the 2024 Tŝilhqox (Chilcotin River) landslide, Tl’esqox (Toosey) First Nation has released a report, reflecting on the landslide response and mitigation. As an addition to the 2024 Tŝilhqox Landslide Report, this report details what Tl’esqox has learned since the 2024 Tŝilhqox landslide, as well as further insights from the documented experiences of Tl’esqox and the Tŝilhqot’in Nation. 

On July 31, 2024, a landslide caused a significant block of the Tŝilhqox for six days. At the time, the landslide threatened public safety, sacred sites and the 2024 salmon run. In the Spring of 2026, Tl’esqox, in partnership with the Tŝilhqot’in Nation led and funded rockslope stabilization work to mitigate further sliding that had the potential to dramatically impact migration routes for salmon. The protection of salmon was the highest priority in this work. Nagwentled is a critical migration corridor for salmon stocks that wind through the caretaker area of the Tl’esqox community. 

On the anniversary of the landslide, the community of Tl’esqox recognizes the hard work of those involved in response and recovery and continues to seek meaningful advancements with BC and Canada in four main calls to action. The two-year anniversary of the landslide reaffirms the commitment to caring for the nen, the tu, the ts’eman, and lhuy. Tl’esqox calls on government and industry to continue building on the progress of the past two years, where consent and respect guide meaningful and tangible outcomes for today and for future generations to come.

“The salmon are our biggest concern, always. They are our biggest food source. The river and the salmon are a part of who we are, it's in our DNA. Salmon - they have their struggles. They are not much different than us – moving from one emergency to the next. They’re resilient and strong and this reflects on us as a people.”

-Nits’ilʔin (Chief) Francis Laceese of Tl’esqox (Toosey) First Nation

Report here

Committee of the Whole (Cariboo RD Board) - June 18, 2026 mtg

Present: Chair M. Wagner/Vice-Chair M. Neufeld; Directors Audet, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, LeBourdais, Richmond, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Paull, Rathor, Pinkney and Alternate Director D. Funk (District of Wells) 

Meeting called to order at 10:30am

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 Funk from the District of Wells to today's Committee meeting

Meeting Agenda adopted - click here (with late item from Dir. Forseth - CRD Budget 2027/reduction of rural provincial home owner grant in 2027) 

Minutes of the previous Committee of the Whole meeting held on March 19, 2026 were received/adopted

Delegations:

None 

Business:

The Committee discussed the following matters: 

* Video Livestream Pilot/next steps - report from Manager of Communications

* Updated Geotechnical Hazard Area Mapping for Williams Lake Fringe Area and Quesnel Fringe Area - report from CRD Senior Planner 

* Intergovernmental Relations Update

* NCLGA Membership 

* Future Financial Support for Indigenous Events/Next Steps

* CRD Budget 2027/reduction of provincial rural home owner grant in 2027

* Strategic Plan Update

Following discussion - the Committee made the following recommendations to the Regional Board: 

1) That, in order to enhance transparency and accessibility, the Board extend the pilot project for livestreaming CCRHD (Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District) and Cariboo Regional District Board meetings by six months (to end of December 2026), and further, that during that time staff be directed to investigate options to host recorded meetings online for a defined period of time, in addition to the livestream

And then the Committee adjourned at 2:30pm

Tŝilhqot’in Nation Rejects B.C. Hydro Announcement of Potential Bute Inlet Power Project

Courtesy of the Tŝilhqot’in National Government:

The Tŝilhqot’in National Government (TNG) responded yesterday to British Columbia’s announcement that B.C. Hydro is exploring the potential for a large hydroelectric project near Bute Inlet: Powering B.C.’s future: New plan drives clean energy, growth, jobs.

As currently understood, this proposed power project would require extensive infrastructure in Tŝilhqot’in territory and has the potential to significantly impact Tŝilhqot’in lands and waters, as well as our title and rights.

TNG has communicated to B.C. Hydro, in no uncertain terms, that this project will not proceed without free, prior informed Tŝilhqot’in consent.

Specifically, TNG has made it clear to B.C. Hydro that the Tŝilhqot’in Nation must be a true partner from the outset to define and implement any investigation of this proposed power project, so that Tŝilhqot’in interests are fully understood and assessed to the satisfaction of the Tŝilhqot’in people. TNG has set out an Indigenous-led model for evaluating this project that recognizes and reflects the decision-making authority of the Tŝilhqot’in people at each stage, and the reality that this project will not proceed without Tŝilhqot’in consent.

TNG rejects B.C. Hydro’s decision to proceed unilaterally to explore this project, without any meaningful discussion with TNG to establish a respectful process. TNG calls on B.C. Hydro to halt any investigation of this project unless and until the jurisdiction and decision-making authority of the Tŝilhqot’in Nation is fully recognized and respected in the process.

Nits’ilʔin (Chief) Otis Guichon, Tribal Chief, Tŝilhqot’in National Government, Tŝideldel First Nation goes on to say: 

"Let us be clear: our War Chiefs stood up to the colonial government, fought a war in 1864 and sacrificed their lives to stop the building of a road through Bute Inlet and into our territory. This project will never proceed over the opposition of our Nation. B.C. Hydro’s public announcement, without us, without our approval, without engaging us in any meaningful way in the process, is the most disrespectful way to initiate a process for a project that affects us so significantly and directly. It is business as usual from B.C. Hydro and we will not stand for it.”

Williams Lake Community Safety Forum - July 15, 2026 from 6-8pm

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake is inviting residents, businesses and community members to participate in a Community Safety Information Gathering Session on Wednesday, July 15 from 6 pm to 8 pm in the Gibraltar Room at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex. 

The session will provide an opportunity for community members to share their concerns and ideas related to public safety in Williams Lake. Discussion topics will include public space safety, homelessness, mental health and addictions, youth safety, personal safety, business and economic impacts and other community safety issues. 

Discussion will be facilitated to encourage respectful, collaborative and productive discussion to prevent personal attacks or criticism directed at specific individuals, organizations or agencies.

To help guide the discussion, the City has launched a Community Safety Survey. Community members are encouraged to complete the survey in advance of the session and share their perspectives on current safety challenges, areas for improvement and potential solutions. Surveys completed before July 10 will be compiled and summarized for use during the sessions.

Input gathered through both the survey and the information session will help the City better understand community concerns, experiences and priorities related to safety in Williams Lake.

The survey can be completed at: https://forms.gle/Z3QccmRFs2THPRGx7.

The survey will remain open until midnight on Friday, July 31, to allow community members who are unable to attend the session an opportunity to provide input. 

Doors will open for the Community Safety Information Gathering Session at 5:30 pm, with the session beginning at 6 pm.

Williams Lake City Councillor Jazmyn Lyons will not seek re-election this October

With just over 4 months before voters go to the polls in October 2026 to elect a new Williams Lake Mayor/six City Councillors for the elected term of 2026-2030 -- 1st term Williams Lake City Councillor Jazmyn Lyons announced this past weekend on her Facebook page that she will not seek a 2nd term on Williams Lake City Council this October - more here

This follows a similar announcement earlier this month from her Williams Lake City Council colleague, Joan Flaspohler, who announced that she too won't seek re-election to Williams Lake City Council this October - more here

Williams Lake City Councillors Angie Delainey, Sheila Boehm, Micheal Moses, Scott Nelson and Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor have not yet publicly declared their re-election plans for this October but many of them are expected to do so in the next little while....

For those in the Williams Lake area -- there is the upcoming candidate workshop co-sponsored by the City of Williams Lake/Cariboo Regional District being facilitated by former Golden, BC Mayor Christina Benty on Monday, June 22, 2026 from 4-7pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St, Williams Lake) for those interested either in BC Local Government in general or those interested in running for Williams Lake Mayor/City Councillor or Cariboo RD Electoral Areas D,E,F,J,K Directors' this October - more details here

British Columbia voters (including those in Williams Lake) head to the polls on Saturday, October 17th, 2026 to elect new Mayors, Councillors, Electoral Area Directors and School Trustees for a new 4 year elected term of November 2026 - October 2030.... 

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government or Boards' of Education Meetings | Week of June 15-19, 2026

During the week of June 15-19, 2026 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments or Boards' of Education will be holding meetings: 

Wells: Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 3:15pm in Wells Council Chambers/via Zoom (4243 Sanders Avenue, Wells).  When available, the Meeting Agenda can be viewed here

Quesnel: Policy/Bylaw Committee meeting on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 3:15pm in the Fraser River Meeting Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda: 

* Unsightly Properties - Discussion Item 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

School District #28 (Quesnel): Final Board of Education Meeting for 2025-26 School Year on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at 7pm in the SD28 Boardroom (401 North Star Rd, Quesnel).  When available, the Meeting Agenda can be viewed here

Williams Lake: Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 6:00pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St).  On the Agenda: 

* Delegations -- i) Dr. Rafi, Dr. Ali, Mr. Imran and Mr. Yasir, Central Cariboo Islamic Center re Safety & Security Concerns of Muslim Community and ii) Presentations from Silvia Dubray, Well-Being & Community Safety Coordinator, Terenna Donahue, Executive Director & Michelle Stevens, Director of Housing at Canadian Mental Health Association

* Report of City Planner re: Non-standard Vehicles on City Streets - Follow-up Report

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District: 

1) South Cariboo Joint Committee - Monday, June 15th, 2026 at 12pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House).  On the Agenda: 

* Verbal Update re: Soccer Gates

* Lumberman Ball Park Update

* Capital and Equipment Plan Amendment Request - South Cariboo Recreation Centre Arena

* Reconsideration of South Cariboo Recreation Centre Outdoor Rink Resolution (as referred back from Cariboo RD Board) 

* Discussion Item: South Cariboo Recreation Centre - Media Booth Project

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) Committee of the Whole (Board)- Thursday, June 18th, 2026 at 10:30am in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

* CRD Board Video Livestream pilot -- report of results and direction as to next steps

* Updated Geohazard Technical Maps for Quesnel/Williams Lake Fringe areas 

* Discussion Items -- NCLGA Membership, Intergovernmental Relations Update and Funding of Indigenous Events 

View the full Meeting Agenda here 

3) Indigenous Relations Committee - Thursday, June 18th, 2026 at 3:00pm in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

* Discussion Items -- Traditional Territory, Indigenous Relations Framework Implementation

* Roundtable Discussion 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

4) Cariboo-Chilcotin RHD Board Meeting - Friday, June 19th, 2026 at 9:30am in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom.  On the Agenda: 

* Information-only items

* Update from the Chair 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

5) Cariboo RD Board Meeting - Friday, June 19, 2026 at 9:45am in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom.  On the Agenda: 

* Delegations: i) Nilhts'i Ecoener Wind Project (near Hixon, BC but impacts on Cariboo RD Areas "B" + "C") and ii) BC Community Response Networks

* Land Use Matters (Electoral Area Directors only)

* Year Round Grant for Assistance applications

* NDIT Application - Tatla Lake

* 2025 Statement of Financial Information Report

* Information-only items

* Recommendations from CRD Committees or Commission for endorsement

View the full Meeting Agenda here

City of Williams Lake 2025 Annual Report available!

 Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

City of Williams Lake Council will consider the 2025 Annual Report at the Regular Meeting of Council to be held Tuesday, June 23, 2026 at 6:00 PM in Williams Lake Council Chambers, Williams Lake City Hall, 450 Mart Street, Williams Lake . 

Members of the public are invited to attend the meeting and may present submissions or ask questions with respect to the report. 

Members of the public are encouraged to submit in writing any questions or comments they may have with respect to the report. 

Written submissions are requested to be submitted in advance of the meeting to the Corporate Services Department via email to corporateservices@williamslake.ca, or by hand/mail to the above address. 

Copies of the draft Annual Report will be available for inspection at City Hall, 450 Mart Street starting June 9, 2026, or can be downloaded from the City’s website in PDF format. Copies of the report will also be provided upon request.

For further information, please call Ross Coupé, Corporate Officer at (250) 392-1773 or email rcoupe@williamslake.ca.

Williams Lake Council Highlights - June 9, 2026

Present in WL Council Chambers:

Mayor Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Lyons, Moses and Nelson

Present via Zoom:

Councillors A. Delainey and J. Flaspohler

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 and welcomed Cariboo RD Area "D" Director Steve Forseth to tonight's meeting of Williams Lake City Council 

Meeting Video - click here

Meeting Agenda - click here

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous Council meeting were received/adopted

Delegations:

1) Karen Gertzen, Williams Lake Stampede Parade Society regarding 2026 Williams Lake Stampede Parade 

2) Court Smith of the Williams Lake Stampede Association regarding the 98th (2026) Annual Williams Lake Stampede 

3) Amber Stratton from Rotary Club of Williams Lake regarding Peace Pole Project

Following each presentation - a Question and Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor thanked each delegation for their time/information

Response to Delegations:

1)  Council approved the proposed installation of the Rotary Peace Pole in the grassed area in front of Williams Lake City Hall and authorized the use of City staff time and equipment for the installation

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated May 28 and June 4, 2026

2) Council endorsed the proposed RCMP 2027-2032 multi-year financial plan, approve the 2027/28 budget cap in principle, and directed staff to send the requested Budget Approval in Principle (AIP) Letter to the RCMP

3) Council received a report of the Director of Protective Services regarding information on the viability of temporarily closing the municipal jail cells located within the Williams Lake RCMP Detachment and endorsed Option #3 (direct staff to prepare a letter to senior levels of government outlining Council’s concerns regarding repeat offending and the pressures placed on municipalities)

4) Council waived City of Williams Lake Outstanding Account Policy No. 20 and authorized staff to add any amounts owing to the City for remediation/demolition works at 55 Sixth Avenue South (backside of Hamilton Hotel) undertaken related to the City’s Remedial Action Resolution (RES #54/26), including any unpaid demolition bill, to the property taxes as soon as possible if such amounts are not paid within 30 days of invoicing

5) Council provided direction to staff regarding potential meeting requests with the Premier and Cabinet Ministers as well as of any virtual meeting requests with Provincial ministry, agency, commission, and corporation staff (MACCs) for the 2026 UBCM (Union of BC Municipalities) Convention to be held in Vancouver from September 14 to 18, 2026

6) Council received a verbal report of the Mayor summarizing Council's achievements for this term of office (2022-2026)

7) Council received a report from Councillor Scott Nelson regarding parking along Foster Way and directed Staff to - in response to neighbourhood concerns, install "no parking" signs for approximately the first 100m along Foster Way in Westridge Estates

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillor A. Delainey

8) Council adopted "City of Williams Lake Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 2439, 2026"

9) Council received for information a letter from the Hon. Jessie Sunner (BC Post Secondary Education Minister) regarding concerns from the City of Williams Lake written to BC Premier David Eby around the potential closure of the Thompson Rivers University Williams Lake Campus

10) Council received a list of recognitions approved in accordance with Council Policy No. 235

11) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of June 9, 2026

Members of Council reported on their recent activities

And then Council adjourned at 7:49pm

Evacuation ALERT RESCINDED for Swede Creek Fire Area

Courtesy of the Cariboo RD's Emergency Operations Centre:

June 8, 2026

3:30pm 

The Evacuation Alert issued June 2, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. for the Swede Creek Fire Area has been lifted by the Cariboo Regional District Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).

Evacuation Alert Lift

An Evacuation Alert or Order may need to be reissued if it is deemed necessary. Residents must be prepared if the area receives a future evacuation order or alert on short notice. Residents are advised to ensure they maintain their emergency kits and monitor the EOC and BC Wildfire’s social media pages to stay informed.

To ensure public safety, stay out of fire affected areas and obey all warning and hazard signs.

For areas that have been impacted by wildfire, residents should be aware there may be danger trees in wildfire affected areas. Home owners and private land owners are recommended to work with an insurance agency to have an assessment done by a qualified arborist on their private property by a qualified arborist.

Air quality may remain poor as a result of smoke from nearby fire activity. Those with respiratory issues, small children, and the elderly should consider this before they choose to return to the area. The BC Centre for Disease Control and regional health authorities have further information on their websites about the health impacts of wildfire smoke.

Residents are encouraged to register for the Cariboo Chilcotin Emergency Notification System to receive a text, call or email regarding any new Evacuation Alerts and Orders impacting them. You must register to receive notifications from this system, as these are non-intrusive broadcast alerts.

Evacuation Notification Exercise Planned for Bouchie Lake Area

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

The Cariboo Regional District (CRD), in partnership with Quesnel Cariboo Search and Rescue and the RCMP, will conduct a mock evacuation notification exercise in the Bouchie Lake area on Saturday, June 13, 2026, between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

The exercise will take place on Heaton Road and Blacklock Road and is designed to test emergency notification procedures, strengthen coordination between response agencies, and help ensure preparedness in the event of a real emergency.

Residents in the area may notice an increased presence of emergency vehicles and personnel during the exercise. There is no danger to the public, and no action is required by residents unless they choose to participate in the training exercise.

As part of the exercise, a limited number of residences may receive a mock evacuation notification and information package. Personnel participating in the exercise will be clearly identified and will not be requesting or collecting any personal information.

The CRD appreciates the cooperation and understanding of area residents as emergency responders and partner agencies work together to enhance emergency preparedness and response capabilities throughout the region.

For more information, please contact CRD Emergency Program Services at 250-855-8924

FCM Convention 2026 concludes

Courtesy of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities:

Editor's Note -- Cariboo Regional District Area B Director Barb Bachmeier and Area L Director Eric DeVries attended the 2026 Federation of Canadian Municipalities Convention in Edmonton, AB

Thousands of local elected officials from across the country gathered in Edmonton, Alta., this week for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM)’s 2026 Annual Conference and Trade Show, celebrating 125 years of municipal leadership and unity.

More than 3,000 attendees, including mayors, councillors and representatives heard from keynote speakers, federal cabinet ministers Dominic LeBlanc, Gregor Robertson and Eleanor Olszewski, joined study tours and workshops, and shared ideas to help local governments deliver for Canadians. Other keynote speakers included Conservative MP Scott Aitchison, NDP Leader Avi Lewis, and Green Party Leader Elizabeth May.

Under the theme “Building the future together,” the conference highlighted how municipalities deliver housing, infrastructure and resilient communities, and how strong partnerships help turn local action into results.

“Canada is at a turning point. I’m honoured to represent municipalities from coast to coast to coast as we roll up our sleeves to deliver results,” said incoming FCM President Tim Tierney. “Together, we will tackle infrastructure gaps, build more housing, address homelessness and strengthen Canada’s future.”

During the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Annual Conference and Trade, which took place between June 4 to 7 in Edmonton, Alta., Ottawa City Councillor Tim Tierney was acclaimed as president of the organization.
Credit: Federation of Canadian Municipalities

Delegates took part in study tours and workshops that gave them solutions that will help municipal governments meet the needs of Canadians. They also learned more about the Green Municipal Fund, which provided the tools and insights to deliver results in their communities. Finally, the conference also featured a Kinship Gathering Space that offered participants moments of reflection and dialogue with Indigenous peoples.

By taking part in these sessions and activities and by connecting with their peers, municipal elected officials will return to their respective communities better equipped with best practices that will improve the quality of life of their residents.

“I’d like to thank the City of Edmonton for hosting our conference and helping to empower our local leaders,” Tierney added.

FCM’s elected leadership

On Sunday, delegates confirmed Tierney, a long-time serving councillor in the City of Ottawa, as FCM’s new president, succeeding Vancouver Councillor Rebecca Bligh. Bligh now becomes FCM’s past president.

Delegates also elected new members to FCM’s Board of Directors and its three vice-presidents:

• First Vice-President: Kathy Valentino (President, Association of Manitoba Municipalities, Man.)
• Second Vice-President: Marc Doret (Mayor, City of Dorval, Que.)
• Third Vice-President: Amy Coady (President, Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador, NL)
• Past President: Rebecca Bligh (Councillor, Vancouver, B.C.)

The full list of FCM’s Board of Directors.

London Mayor Josh Morgan remains chair of FCM’s Big City Mayors’ Caucus, while Laval Mayor Stéphane Boyer and Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham will serve as Vice Chairs, for one and two years, respectively.

Members vote on key resolutions

At Saturday’s Resolutions Plenary, there was a record-setting number of resolutions, demonstrating strong engagement. Some of the resolutions debated included:

• Blinded by the Light: Improving Public Safety by Looking at Headlight Glare: Calls on the federal government to address overly bright headlights and update national safety standards.
• Strengthening Canada’s Defence Capabilities with Local Governments: Urges the federal government to work in full partnership with municipalities on a national defence plan that supports infrastructure, housing, economic development, community well-being, and climate resilience, and recognizing all local infrastructure for multi-use funding.
• Pan-Canadian Strategy on Mental Health, Addictions and Chronic Homelessness: Urges the federal government to work with all orders of government to develop and fund a coordinated strategy.
• Reversal of Federal Agricultural Research Centre Closures: Calls on the federal government to stop the closure of seven agricultural research centres and protect critical long-term data.

“As we look ahead, FCM will keep bringing municipalities together to deliver on local priorities, including housing, infrastructure, public safety, homelessness,” added Tierney. “By working together, we truly are building a brighter future for all Canadians.”

The Federation of Canadian Municipalities is the national voice of municipal governments, with over 2,000 members representing more than 90 percent of the Canadian population.

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government/Board of Education Meetings: Week of June 8-12, 2026

During the week of June 8-12, 2026 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments/Boards of Education will be meeting: 

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) -- Committee of the Whole session on Monday, June 8th, 2026 at 4:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

* Draft Meeting Calendar for 2026-2027 term 

* Draft Election By-law for SD27

* 3 Year Budget Forecast -- 2026/27 to 2028/29

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, June 9th, 2026 at 6:00pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

Delegations -- 

1) Karen Gertzen, Williams Lake Stampede Parade Society re 2026 Parade Event Information; 

2) Court Smith, Williams Lake Stampede Association re 98th Annual WL Stampede Event 

3) Amber Stratton, Rotary Club of Williams Lake re Peace Pole Project

* RCMP Multi-Year Financial Plan 2027-2032

* Viability of Temporarily Closing Williams Lake Jail

* Funds Recover for Remediation/Demolition Works at 55 Sixth Avenue South (back of Hamilton Hotel) 

* Meeting Requests - 2026 UBCM Convention

* Verbal Report of Mayor Rathor re: 2022-2026 Term in Review 

* Parking Concerns on Foster Way - report from Councillor Scott Nelson

View the full Meeting Agenda here

100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting at 5:30pm on Tuesday, June 9, 2026 in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House) -- On the Agenda: 

* Delegations: 

1) Jennifer Houghton – Campaign Director for the New Forest Act 

2) Summerland Mayor Doug Holmes re: PowerPoint on the struggles of small municipalities and the Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI).

* Letter regarding 100 Mile Youth Initiative (Skatepark) 

* Burghley Crescent Closure Petition 

* Bylaw Officer's Report for May 2026

* FireSmart Reporting - May 2026

* 2026 Capital Plan Amendments 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District  -- 

1) North Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, June 9th, 2026 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda: 

* Delegation: Quesnel River Rush (Hockey Team) 

* Capital Budget Amendment – Alex Fraser Park Heaters 

* North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Signage (at North Cariboo Recreational Facilities)

* Capital Budget Amendment – Bouchie Lake Ball Field

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Williams Lake Councillor Joan Flaspohler won't seek re-election this October

Earlier today (June 5, 2026) -- Williams Lake City Councillor Joan Flaspohler announced on her Facebook page that she has decided to not seek re-election this October -- more here

Williams Lake City Councillors Sheila Boehm, Angie Delainey, Jazmyn Lyons, Micheal Moses, Scott Nelson as well as Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor have not made any public announcements regarding their re-elections plans but are expected to do so in the next couple of months... 

Meanwhile -- local Williams Lake resident Billie Sheridan has announced her plans to run for a seat on Williams Lake City Council in the October 2026 City of Williams Lake Local General Elections... more here

Local elections to elect new Mayors, Councillors, Electoral Area Directors, School Trustees for a new 4 year term of November 2026 to November 2030 will take place on Saturday, October 17, 2026

 

Mackenzie Avenue North paving in Williams Lake set to begin Thursday, June 4

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake advises residents that paving work on Mackenzie Avenue North will begin on Thursday, June 4.

Construction will take place between Rose Street and Pine Street. During this period, motorists and pedestrians can expect delays, detours, parking restrictions and other traffic impacts.

The public is asked to use caution when travelling through the area and to follow all posted signage and directions from traffic control personnel.

The City appreciates the public's co-operation and patience during this work, which is expected to be completed by June 30, 2026.

For more information:

Jeff Bernardy, Manager of Engineering

City of Williams Lake

250-392-1767

Forseth seeks 4th Term as Area "D" Director on the Cariboo Regional District Board

For the Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area "D" communities of: 

* Soda Creek Road (beyond the City of Williams Lake municipal boundary) 

* Commodore Heights

* Pine Valley 

* Fox Mountain 

* Wildwood 

* Deep Creek 

* Xat'sull First Nation (Deep Creek/Soda Creek Reserves) 

* Soda Creek/Soda Creek Valley 

* McLeese Lake/Duckworth Lake 

* Macalister 

* Marguerite 

A personal message -- 

I am announcing that I will be seeking re-election as the Cariboo Regional District Area “D” Director this fall… 

Many of the Area 'D' residents' I've talked with in the last few months have requested that I continue for a 4th term and should it be their collective will on Saturday, October 17th, 2026  - I will be honoured to serve them as their Area Director for the forthcoming 2026-2030 term.  

I have a number of Area D projects including seeing a new Fire Hall at McLeese Lake as well as a new Community Centre in Wildwood that I would like see to completion as well as those road concerns that Area "D" residents have brought to my attention during the 2022-2026 term that I would like to continue advocating for.  While I acknowledge that neither I or the Cariboo Regional District are perfect in any way, we do try to do better where we fall down in our representation of those we serve .... 

It truly has been an honour/pleasure to serve the residents' of Electoral Area 'D' as their Area Director for the 2022-2026 term as well as in the last 12 years (2014-2026) and I hope that I will be in a position to continue serving them as I consider many Area D residents' to be close and dear friends as well....

~Steve 

FCM Convention 2026 - June 4 to 7, 2026

The 2026 FCM or Federation of Canadian Municipalities Annual Convention is being held from June 4-7, 2026 in Edmonton, Alberta where locally elected officials (Mayors/Reeves, Councillors, Area Directors) from across Canada from coast to coast to coast get together to discuss local government issues and how the Federal Government can assist... 

View more on the FCM Convention 2026 here 

Cariboo RD Area Directors' Barb Bachmeier from Area B and Eric DeVries from Area L will be attending the 2026 FCM Convention and look forward to hearing about their experiences at the FCM Convention, upon their return...

~SF

Swede Creek Fire Area - Evacuation ALERT (Cariboo RD - Area "I")

Courtesy of the Cariboo RD's Emergency Operations Centre:

June 2, 2026

4:00pm

Because of the potential danger to life and health, the Cariboo Regional District has issued an Evacuation Alert for this area:

Evacuation Alert and Map (PDF)

See a map of the affected areas: cariboord.ca/EOCorderalerts   

An Evacuation Alert has been issued to give you time to prepare to evacuate your premises or property should it be required. 

Residents will be given as much advance notice as possible if an evacuation order is required; however, we may not have time to go door-to-door due to changing conditions. 

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO WHEN AN ALERT IS IN EFFECT 

Upon notification of an ALERT, you should be prepared for an evacuation order:

·         Have a plan to transport all family members or co-workers outside of the area, should the area be brought under evacuation order.

·         Make grab-and-go bags for each member of your household to keep essential items readily available for a quick departure. Pack clothing, ready-to-eat food, toiletries, medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e. insurance), immediate care needs for dependents and, if you choose, keepsakes (photographs, etc.).

·         Ensure that any dependents or pets are prepared for departure. Gather comfort items (blankets, stuffed animals, etc.) for your dependents to make an evacuation less stressful. Gather any kennels or leashes to make transportation safe with your pets.

·         Move pets and livestock to a safe area if they cannot be evacuated. Ensure water and feed are available.

·         Keep the fuel tanks of personal vehicles full in case a new order is issued.

·         Ensure that you have accommodation options for your family, if possible. An Evacuee Reception Centre will be made available if required. Homeowner or tenant insurance may provide greater support than ESS will be able to.

·         In the event you are evacuated, do not shut off your natural gas. For more information, visit fortisbc.com/forestfires.

·      Monitor reliable news sources for information on evacuation orders and locations of Reception Centres and the CRD’s channels on Facebook and cariboord.ca. 

 
·      If you are on an evacuation ALERT, or if you have been displaced from your home due to an emergency, please self-register for Emergency Support Services. You will need to sign up for the BC Services Card app to access the self-registration tool, which will reduce wait times for evacuees and assist in the referral process. https://ess.gov.bc.ca/ 

Residents are encouraged to register for the Cariboo Chilcotin Emergency Notification System to receive a text, call or email regarding Evacuation Alerts and Orders.

For Cariboo Regional District information, please visit Cariboo Regional District's website, Emergency Operations Centre Facebook page, Twitter / X feed or call the Emergency Information Line at 1-866-759-4977 (Monday to Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm).