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.

Image

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.” 

2026 Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Elections Nomination Period - Day 2 of 8

Today (September 2, 2026) is the 2nd 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 (Mayor), Tony Goulet (incumbent Councillor)

School District #28 (Quesnel) - Tony Goulet, Lisa Boudreau (incumbent Trustees)

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - none

Williams Lake - none

100 Mile House - none 

Cariboo Regional District - Steve Forseth (incumbent Area "D" Director), Maureen LeBourdais (incumbent Area "F" Director), Margo Wagner (incumbent Area "H" Director), Jim Glassford (incumbent Area "I" Director), Betty Anderson (incumbent Area "K" Director), Eric DeVries (incumbent Area "L" Director)

Committee of the Whole (Williams Lake Council) Session - Sept 1, 2026 mtg

Present in the Rick Hansen Boardroom: Mayor SPS Rathor; Councillors J. Flaspohler, M. Moses and S. Nelson

Present via Zoom:

Councillors S. Boehm and J. Lyons

Meeting Agenda adopted

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

Business:

1) Community Safety Concerns - Public Survey Feedback

Report of the Community Well-Being & Safety Coordinator was presented to the Committee

Report/Presentation here

Following the presentation -- a discussion ensued thereon....

Committee Recommendation to Williams Lake Council:

That Council receive this report for information; and further: 

1. That Council use the attached summary to inform discussions and advocacy efforts at the upcoming UBCM Convention; 

2. 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; 

3. 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. 

4. Advocate for more complex addiction/mental health care beds for Williams Lake... 

There being no further business -- the Committee then adjourned

2026 Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Elections Nomination Period - Day 1 of 8

Today (September 1, 2026) - the local Chief Election Officers' or their Deputies' for the Districts of 100 Mile House/Wells, Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake, Cariboo Regional District and School Districts #27/#28 (Cariboo-Chilcotin/Quesnel) can formally begin to receive completed candidate nomination forms for the elected positions of Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director and School Trustee, starting at 9am today - Tuesday, September 1st, 2026 until 4pm sharp! on Friday, September 11th, 2026 EXCLUDING September 5-7, 2026 (BC Labour Day Long Weekend)

For information on relating to the 2026 Local General Elections such as general candidate information, voting days, etc., including contact information in order to make an appointment to visit the local Chief Election Officer or their Deputy for Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments or School Districts' to submit completed candidate nomination forms- please see links below:

District of Wells - click here
City of Quesnel - click here
City of Williams Lake - click here
District of 100 Mile House - click here
Cariboo Regional District - click here 
School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - click here
School District #28 (Quesnel) - click here

Elections BC Disqualification List for 2026 BC Local Elections - click here

You can monitor who has filed their nomination papers with the local Chief Election Officer or their Deputy for the Office of Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director or School Trustee via the CivicInfo 2026 Election Candidate Portal here 

Later today - I will be visiting the Cariboo Regional District's Chief Election Officer to formally file my Electoral Area 'D' Director candidate nomination forms for a re-election bid for a 4th consecutive term as the Cariboo Regional District's Electoral Area "D" Director

For those seeking re-election or election for the 1st time - best of luck in your election or re-election bids... 

To those who are retiring from local political life - the people of the Cariboo-Chilcotin thank you for your public service, no matter who long you have served and wish you the very best in your future endeavours...

As of this morning, the following individuals have publicly confirmed their intention (either through social or local media) to seek local elected office, as follows:

District of Wells (elect 1 Mayor and 4 Councillors) - 

Incumbents - Ed Coleman won't seek re-election.  Rocky Nenka seeks to become the next Mayor of Wells

Unknown - Incumbent Councillors Dorothea Funk, Jennifer Lewis, Dirk Van Stralen, Josh Trotter-Wanner

City of Quesnel (elect 1 Mayor and 6 Councillors): 

Incumbents -- Mayor Ron Paull seeks re-election for 2nd term

Unknown - Incumbent Councillors Debra McKelvie, Scott Elliott, Laurey-Anne Roodenburg, Tony Goulet, Martin Runge and Mitch Vik

Board of Education (SD28 - Quesnel) (elect 7 School Trustees at large)- unknown at this time

Board of Education (SD27 - Cariboo/Chilcotin) (elect 1 School Trustee per Area with 7 School Trustee Electoral Areas in total) - Zone 5 (WL Rural) Trustee Angie Delainey won't seek re-election.  Re-election plans for School Trustees in Zones 1-4, 6 and 7 are unknown at this time

City of Williams Lake (Elect 1 Mayor and 6 Councillors):

Incumbents - Mayor Surinderpal Rathor seeks re-election for 2nd term as well as Councillor Micheal Moses.  Councillors Jazmyn Lyons, Joan Flaspohler and Angie Delainey won't seek re-election

Challengers - Billie Sheridan, Dr. Rafiullah Sahibzada

Unknown - Councillors Scott Nelson, Sheila Boehm

District of 100 Mile House (elect 1 Mayor and 4 Councillors):

Incumbents - Mayor Maureen Pinkney to seek re-election for 2nd term

Unknown - Incumbent Councillors Dave Mingo, Donna Barnett, Jenni Guimond, Marty Norgren

Cariboo Regional District (elect 1 Director per Electoral Area with 12 Electoral Areas in total):

Incumbents -- Area "A" Director Nicole Audet seeks re-election for 2nd term after completing remainder of late Mary Sjostrom's 2022-2026 term, Area "D" Director Steve Forseth seeks re-election for 4th term, Area "F" Director Maureen LeBourdais seeks 3rd term, Area "H" Director Margo Wagner seeks re-election for 5th term

Unknown -- Directors' for Areas B,C,G,I,J,K,L (Barb Bachmeier, John Massier, Al Richmond, Jim Glassford, Tolin Pare, Betty Anderson and Eric DeVries)

Challengers -- Heloise Dixon-Warren (Area B), Jake McLean (Area L)

~SF

Steve's Meeting/Expense Calendar - August 2026

During the month of August 2026 -- I attended the following meetings or events: 

August 5 - Monthly Meeting of McLeese Lake Recreation Commission at McLeese Lake Community Hall

August 14 - Meetings of Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District/Cariboo Regional District Boards' as well as an introductory phone call with the new Chief Administrative Officer of Xat'sull First Nation

August 18 - 10th Annual Salmon Sampling Event at Xat'sull Heritage Village

August 19 - met with Cariboo RD Areas "A" and "B" Directors in Quesnel regarding the 2026 UBCM Resolution Book

August 21 - virtually met with TELUS representatives regarding High Speed Internet/Cell Network expansion opportunities within Cariboo RD Area "D"

August 23 - attended the fundraiser event at the McLeese Lake Community Hall for the McLeese Lake Meals with Heart Society 

August 24 - Public Hearing for property on Mile 168 Rd

In addition, remained in contact with the Cariboo RD Area D's Alternate Director and used her as a "sounding board" as I deal with issues with my Electoral Area.  As well as responded to inquiries from Area "D" residents' via phone/text, social media or email 

Expenses submitted in August 2026:

August 14, 2026 - $206 for Meetings of Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District/Cariboo Regional District Boards' 

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of August 31 to September 4, 2026

During the week of August 31 to September 4, 2026 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments' will be holding meetings, as follows: 

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

* Committee Reports

* North Cariboo Highway Rescue Society Licence of Occupation

* City of Quesnel Political Campaign Sign Bylaw – 2026

* Quesnel Minor Baseball Association Licence of Use and Occupation

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Williams Lake: Committee of the Whole session on September 1, 2026 at 6:00pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

* Community Safety Concerns - Review Public Survey Feedback 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Other Notes: 

1) School Districts' #27(Cariboo-Chilcotin) and #28 (Quesnel) don't resume their meetings until mid-

September 2026

2) Wells, 100 Mile House, Cariboo RD/Cariboo-Chilcotin RHD will be holding meetings during the week of September 8-11, 2026

3) The formal campaign nomination period for Cariboo-Chilcotin Mayors, Councillors, Electoral Area Directors and School Trustees commences on Tuesday, September 1st, 2026 at 9am -- I will have more to say on this the morning of September 1, 2026 prior to the start of the formal campaign nomination period -- what to expect and who is known to be seeking election or re-election this October 2026...

~SF

Cariboo RD Area "H" Director launches bid for 5th term

In her recent column in the 100 Mile Free Press -- current Cariboo RD Area "H" Director (Forest Grove/Canim Lake) and 2025-26 Cariboo RD Board Chair Margo Wagner announced that she would seek a 5th term on the Cariboo Regional District Board for the elected term of 2026-2030 (see above picture)

She was first elected onto the Cariboo Regional District Board in November of 2011 and was acclaimed in the Cariboo Regional District local general elections of 2014, 2018 and 2022

In addition to Director Wagner -- Cariboo RD Area "A" Director Nicole Audet will be seeking her 1st full term this October following a by-election win this past February of 2026; Cariboo RD Area "F" Director Maureen LeBourdais will be seeking her 3rd consecutive term while Cariboo RD Area "D" Director Steve Forseth seeks his 4th consecutive term.  The Cariboo RD Areas B,C,E,G,I,J,K,L Directors (Barb Bachmeier, John Massier, Melynda Neufeld, Al Richmond, Jim Glassford, Tolin Pare, Betty Anderson and Eric DeVries) have yet to publicly state if they plan to seek re-election this October

Cariboo Regional District Candidate Nomination Period commences Tuesday, September 1st, 2026 at 9am and concludes on 4pm sharp! on Friday, September 11, 2026 EXCLUDING Saturday-Sunday-Monday September 5-6-7, 2026 due to the Labour Day Long Weekend...

More information on the Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area Director local election process can be accessed at https://www.cariboord.ca/regional-government/feedback-and-engagement/2026-local-election-information/

Surinderpal Rathor launches Williams Lake Mayor re-election bid

Editor's Note -- I was personally disappointed during Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor's comments to supporters during his re-election campaign launch yesterday when he took a personal shot at the Cariboo Regional District referencing the 2024 BCGEU strike while noting the same did not occur for recent City of Williams Lake labour negotiations, despite the fact the City of Williams Lake IS a member of the Cariboo Regional District -- a poor choice of words used and should have done better...

Also: referencing the reduction in the cost share arrangement between Province of BC/Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District for the Cariboo Memorial Hospital Redevelopment Project and claiming personal responsibility for it *is* a complete personal letdown...

To be perfectly clear: the Cariboo Memorial Hospital Redevelopment Project is a cost shared project between the *entire* Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Province of BC (through Interior Health) and any discussions between Province of BC/Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District on cost sharing reductions regarding the CMH Redevelopment Project would be advanced by the Chair of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District (on behalf of the local RHD Board) - currently Al Richmond - however Mayor Rathor (on behalf of the City of Williams Lake) would be part of those discussions however he (Rathor) would not lead those discussions (and that would be the same for any hospital capital cost-shared projects in either Quesnel/100 Mile House -- Chair Richmond would lead those hospital capital cost-share discussions with the Province of BC on behalf of the CCRHD Board but with support of the local Mayors) 

But having said the above -- I wish Mayor Rathor the best in his upcoming re-election campaign... 

~SF

In front of campaign supporters of nearly 20+ people -- incumbent Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor launched his re-election campaign in his backyard...

Those in attendance (elected officials or those running for Williams Lake Council) included: 

* Cariboo RD Area "D" Director Steve Forseth

* Williams Lake Councillor Micheal Moses 

* Williams Lake Councillor candidates Billie Sheridan and Dr. Rafiullah Sahibzada

After hot dogs/burgers and supporters having conversations with each other -- Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor addressed his supporters about the actions of himself/Williams Lake City Council for Williams Lake during the 2022-2026 term and why he believed that he was worthy of re-election...

As of this writing -- Surinderpal Rathor is the only publicly declared candidate for Mayor of Williams Lake for the 2026-2030 elected term

The formal candidate nomination period commences this coming Tuesday, September 1st, 2026 at 9am and concludes at 4pm sharp on Friday, September 11, 2026 (excluding Saturday - Sunday - Monday September 5-7, 2026 due to Labour Day Long Weekend) 

Quesnel Council Highlights - August 25, 2026 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Quesnel Ambassador Leadership Program

Council expressed appreciation to the 2025/2026 Outgoing Ambassadors Grace Cassidy and Ociah Woodruff, and welcomed the 2026/2027 Incoming Ambassadors Abigail Russell and Nora Aziz.

Quesnel Health Services - 2026 Updates

Council received an update on local health services from Daryl Petsul, senior operating officer, northern interior rural, and Michelle Lawrence, executive director, specialized services with Northern Health.

The presentation highlighted current efforts to strengthen healthcare services in the region, including physician recruitment, medical training initiatives, and the implementation of Teladoc services at urgent and primary care centres. Council also received an overview of the local physician workforce and how healthcare delivery continues to evolve to meet changing community needs.

Challenges facing healthcare systems across the province were also discussed, including workforce changes, an aging population, declining birth rates, increasing patient care complexity, hospital capacity pressures, and rising incidents of workplace violence.

Tourism Marketing Results

Amy Thacker, CEO of the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association (CCCTA), provided Council with an update on the results of the Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT) program and the positive impact it is having across the region.

With growing community participation, CCCTA’s marketing efforts have contributed to increasing room revenues, increasing the provincial share of room revenues for the region, and increasing qualified referrals to tourism operators, year over year, since the inception of MRDT in the region. The organization is also leveraging Destination BC funding to expand marketing efforts, promote key travel routes such as the Gold Rush Trail, and deliver targeted campaigns that encourage more visitors to stay longer and explore the region.

Looking ahead, priorities include tourism industry training, a highway signage strategy, responsible travel initiatives, and continued advocacy for improved transportation options. CCCTA also emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration with local tourism operators to support regional growth and development.

Nilhts’i Ecoener Wind Project

Council approved a request to provide a letter of support for the Nilhts’i Ecoener Wind Project as part of its Energy Regulator Activities Act permit application after receiving more information about the project's potential use of the Quesnel landfill and any associated impacts on landfill capacity and operations.

Local Government Climate Action Program Reporting

Council received the 2025 Local Government Climate Action Report, which tracks the City’s greenhouse gas emissions and local climate action efforts.

The report is required under the Local Government Climate Action Program, which provides funding to support projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainability in communities across British Columbia.

Capital Prioritization

Council reviewed and approved priorities within the City’s 20-year capital plan, while also providing recommendations for the next Council.

Council approved making the water treatment project the top priority for future infrastructure grant funding, implementing an annual increase to taxation of 1.5% per year to go into the capital reinvestment reserve to ensure adequate funding to maintain the city’s current infrastructure, and exploring long-term parking solutions as part of the planned RCMP detachment renovation project before it proceeds to referendum.

Council Information Package:

Council reviewed several items included in the Council Information Package.

A resident letter regarding public safety was discussed and will be forwarded to an upcoming Public Safety and Policing Committee meeting for further review.

Council also received an update on a letter of support provided for the Quesnel Kangaroos Hockey Club's bid to host the 2027 Western Canada Savage Cup Hockey Championship.

Quesnel Legion - Cenotaph Request

Council directed staff to review the request from the Quesnel Legion and bring a report back to a future council meeting regarding the possible relocation of the Cenotaph.

City of Quesnel Appointment of Officers and Delegation of Authority Amendment Bylaw No. 1985 of 2026 – Final Reading

Council approved the final reading of the City of Quesnel Appointment of Officers and Delegation of Authority Amendment Bylaw No. 1985 of 2026.

Williams Lake Council Highlights - August 25, 2026 mtg

Present in WL Council Chambers:

Mayor Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Flaspohler, Moses and Nelson

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

Mayor Rathor recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw and welcomed Cariboo RD Area "D" Director Steve Forseth to tonight's Council meeting and acknowledged the absence of Councillors A. Delainey and J. Lyons

Meeting Video - click here

Meeting Agenda - click here

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous Council meeting were received/adopted

Resolved: That the Mayor be authorized to provide a letter of achievement and certificate to Mr. Pat Matthews for his significant involvement in local radio 

Business:

1) Council received or received for information: 

* accounts payable computer cheque and EFT (Electronic Funds Transfers) listings dated August 13 and 20, 2026

* Letter from UBCM or Union of BC Municipalities Resolution re Extraordinary Resolution 2025-ER1 - Existing Policy ('2026 Health Care Provider Crisis' Submission) 

* Proclamations, Lighting Requests & Flag Raisings as per Council Policy #235 (August 31, 2026 - International Overdose Awareness Day and September 10, 2026 - World Suicide Prevention Day) 

* Council Information Package as of August 25, 2026

2) Council approved compensation, registration and travel expenses for those wishing to attend the UBCM Annual Convention being held in Vancouver, BC from September 14 to 18, 2026

3) Council directed staff to initiate the public notification and agency referrals process for the proposed relocation of an existing retail cannabis store to be located at #420-1185 Prosperity Way and that it be brought back for final consideration of Council at their October 6, 2026 regular meeting, following receipt of public input at the meeting, as well as agency and public comments received, after completion of the public notification process (including notices to be posted by the applicant in the required timeframe) conducted in a format as approved by Williams Lake's Chief Administrative Officer

4) Council approved free transit service (i.e. conventional and HandyDART) for Municipal Election Day taking place on Saturday, October 17, 2026

5) Council approved a Committee of the Whole recommendation concerning the timeline for the 2027 Budget/2027-2032 Five Year Financial Plan, as follows: 

Council approve the proposed budget and five-year financial plan preparation timeline for 2027 and that:

i) Staff be directed to prepare a budget based on maintaining services and staffing levels at existing levels,

ii) Achieve a zero percent increase in the mil rate be a goal for preparing the 2027 budget,

iii) A report be prepared for Council's consideration on options for funding the Water Treatment Plant project,

iv) Staff be directed to investigate options for grants to offset the costs of the capital project costs, and

v) An analysis be provided showing the costs of maintaining status quo service levels compared with 2026 costs

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillor J. Flaspohler

And then Council adjourned at 6:42pm

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of August 24-28, 2026

During the week of August 24-28, 2026 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments will be holding meetings, as follows: 

Quesnel -- Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, August 25th, 2026 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda: 

* Presentation: Quesnel Ambassador Leadership Program

* Delegations: 

i) Northern Health regarding Quesnel Health Services - 2026 Updates

ii) Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association regarding Tourism Marketing Results

* Committee Reports 

* Nilhts’i Ecoener Wind Project Follow-up to original Letter of Support request

* Local Government Climate Action Program Reporting

* Capital Program Prioritization

* Quesnel Legion - Cenotaph Request

* Quesnel Minor Hockey - Request for Support

View the full Meeting Agenda here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Trustee Candidate Session via MS Teams on Thursday, August 27th, 2026 from 6:30pm - 7:30pm.  Full details here

School District #28 (Quesnel) -- Trustee Candidate Information Session from 6-7pm at the SD28 Office (401 Northstar Rd, Quesnel)....  More info here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, August 25th, 2026 at 6pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda: 

* Authorization for Council Members to attend the 2026 UBCM/Union of BC Municipalities Convention

* Authorization for Free Transit Service on Municipal Election Day - Saturday, October 17, 2026

* Recommendation from Committee of the Whole re: 2027 Budget Timelines 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

100 Mile House -- all meetings referenced to be held in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House) on Tuesday, August 25th, 2026:

a) Committee of the Whole at 4pm -- On the Agenda: 

Discussion in Committee on: 

* Letter from the Fishing Highway Tourist Association re: Business Struggles 

* Vacant Storefront Project Update 

* Screening Policy & Public Complaints Policy 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

b) Regular Council Meeting at 5:30pm -- On the Agenda: 

* Delegation: Health Landing Coordinator Update 

* Request for Letter of Support from Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice re: application to Northern Development Initiative Trust’s Marketing Initiatives Program for its Physician Recruitment Marketing Expansion Initiative

* Update from Bylaw Officer for July 2026

* 5 Bylaws for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings 

* Closed/In-Camera Council Session -- Sections 92 + Section 90 (2)(b)(ii) of the Community Charter [confidential negotiations between the municipality and another BC Local Government or between another BC Local Government and a third party]

View the full Meeting Agenda here 

Landing Incident at Quesnel Regional Airport

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Update at 4:00pm on August 21, 2026 -- City of Quesnel advises that the Quesnel Regional Airport has now re-opened and normal airport operations have resumed

Original Blog Post: 

Earlier today, Friday August 21, a small aircraft was involved in a landing incident at the Quesnel Regional Airport. 

There were no injuries reported. Emergency responders attended the scene, and the aircraft remains on the runway area while appropriate recovery and assessment activities are underway. 

The runway has been temporarily closed, and Transport Canada has been notified. The City will continue to work with regulatory authorities and the aircraft operator to safely reopen the airport as soon as possible.

We want to thank the community for your support and continued patience as we navigate this situation.

SD27/School District #27 Trustee Candidate Nomination Documents now available

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) has now made available its' candidate nomination documents on its' website which you can view here or at their SD27 Administration Office at 350 2nd Avenue in Williams Lake during normal business office hours (8:30am - 4:30 p.m. Mondays to Fridays, except statutory holidays and weekends)

In addition -- School District 27 Staff will be hosting a virtual session for those interested in running for the Board of Education - School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) on Thursday, August 27, 2026 from 6:30 - 7:30pm.  The meeting will be held via MS-Teams.  To connect: 

* MS Teams App - click here

* By Phone: 1 647-749-5899 and enter, when prompted, 586 916 504# (ID) 

For more info: https://www.sd27.bc.ca/school-trustee-elections

As of this writing -- none of the current 7 member Board of Education - School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) has publicly indicated their plans for re-election although it is my personal understanding that SD27 Zone 5 (Williams Lake Rural) Trustee Angie Delainey does not intend to re-offer for either Williams Lake City Council or the SD27 Trustee Zone 5 seat on the Board of Education - School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin)

SD27 Trustee Nominations can be formally received by the SD27 Chief Election Officer between September 1-11, 2026 with General Voting Day, for those Trustee Electoral Areas having formal elections, being Saturday, October 17, 2026