Statement from Canadian Prime Minister (Rt Hon.) Justin Trudeau:
Editor's Note -- I will be presenting wreaths on behalf of the Cariboo Regional District and Cariboo-North MLA Coralee Oakes at today's Remembrance Day ceremony in Williams Lake. Full details on today's event can be viewed here
“Today, we honour every Canadian who has served and sacrificed so we may live free. We fall silent to acknowledge a debt we can never repay. We remember.
“One hundred years ago today, the Armistice between Germany and the Allies ended the First World War. As we commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Armistice, we also mark Canada’s Hundred Days.
“During the ‘100 Days Offensive,’ Canadians spearheaded attacks that overcame the last lines of German defences and paved the way to final victory. These soldiers were the face and strength of a young country that sacrificed beyond measure and never faltered in its duty.
“Their bravery garnered the respect and admiration of the world, and marked a turning point for Canada. We began to define ourselves as a country – a force on the world stage, confident, and in control of our own destiny.
“Since then, every generation of Canadians has stepped forward to serve. Thousands have fought, and continue to fight, to defend the principles of peace, freedom, and democracy around the world.
“At 11:00 am, I call on all Canadians to observe the two minutes of silence. We remember every Canadian who has sacrificed their future for generations beyond their own. We stand today, free and at peace, because of them.
“Lest we forget.”
Sunday, November 11, 2018
Saturday, November 10, 2018
Quesnel to host seven low-cost universal child care spaces
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
Families at Ruby’s Place Family Daycare are now paying no more than $200 a month per child as part of the B.C. government universal child care prototype project.
“The children at Ruby’s Place benefit from learning about Indigenous culture at a young age,” said Katrina Chen, Minister of State for Child Care. “Ruby’s Place teams up with the school district’s Indigenous staff to give children unique cultural experiences, like learning about traditional plants and animals, and holistic and balanced lifestyles.”
Ruby’s Place Family Daycare is one of more than 50 sites chosen to offer low-cost child care to B.C. parents. The centre incorporates language and music arts into its regular programming, including Indigenous cultural activities. Ruby’s Place strives to create strong, long-lasting family connections within the community.
“We have committed to bring affordable, accessible and quality child care to B.C. parents,” said Katrine Conroy, Minister of Children and Family Development. “We’re excited to be working alongside providers on these first steps toward a universal child care system.”
The prototype sites will model what high-quality, affordable, universal child care may look like for B.C. families. In all, parents of around 2,500 children throughout the province will benefit from the prototype project.
This project is funded through a $60-million investment as part of the Early Learning and Child Care Agreement with the Government of Canada. It complements the Province’s $1-billion three-year investment through Childcare BC to move toward its long-term vision of affordable, accessible and quality child care for any family that needs it.
Parents who are not accessing these low-cost spaces may still be eligible for support through the Affordable Child Care Benefit, which provides up to $1,250 per child a month for families with an annual income of $111,000 or less. Families using licensed child care may also see savings through the Child Care Fee Reduction, which has so far helped to reduce the cost of almost 52,000 child care spaces around the province.
Learn More:
For more about Childcare BC, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/childcare
For more information about universal child care prototype sites, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/childcare/prototypesites
To learn more about the Affordable Child Care Benefit, and to apply, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/affordablechildcarebenefit
For more information about the Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative and approved providers, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/childcare/optin
Families at Ruby’s Place Family Daycare are now paying no more than $200 a month per child as part of the B.C. government universal child care prototype project.
“The children at Ruby’s Place benefit from learning about Indigenous culture at a young age,” said Katrina Chen, Minister of State for Child Care. “Ruby’s Place teams up with the school district’s Indigenous staff to give children unique cultural experiences, like learning about traditional plants and animals, and holistic and balanced lifestyles.”
Ruby’s Place Family Daycare is one of more than 50 sites chosen to offer low-cost child care to B.C. parents. The centre incorporates language and music arts into its regular programming, including Indigenous cultural activities. Ruby’s Place strives to create strong, long-lasting family connections within the community.
“We have committed to bring affordable, accessible and quality child care to B.C. parents,” said Katrine Conroy, Minister of Children and Family Development. “We’re excited to be working alongside providers on these first steps toward a universal child care system.”
The prototype sites will model what high-quality, affordable, universal child care may look like for B.C. families. In all, parents of around 2,500 children throughout the province will benefit from the prototype project.
This project is funded through a $60-million investment as part of the Early Learning and Child Care Agreement with the Government of Canada. It complements the Province’s $1-billion three-year investment through Childcare BC to move toward its long-term vision of affordable, accessible and quality child care for any family that needs it.
Parents who are not accessing these low-cost spaces may still be eligible for support through the Affordable Child Care Benefit, which provides up to $1,250 per child a month for families with an annual income of $111,000 or less. Families using licensed child care may also see savings through the Child Care Fee Reduction, which has so far helped to reduce the cost of almost 52,000 child care spaces around the province.
Learn More:
For more about Childcare BC, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/childcare
For more information about universal child care prototype sites, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/childcare/prototypesites
To learn more about the Affordable Child Care Benefit, and to apply, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/affordablechildcarebenefit
For more information about the Child Care Fee Reduction Initiative and approved providers, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/childcare/optin
Friday, November 9, 2018
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Nov 12-16
Next week is an abbreviated one for local governments in the Cariboo-Chilcotin Region, due to the Remembrance Day long weekend and please!! get out to the Remembrance Day ceremony closest to you. It is important to honour/respect our veterans...
Next week's local government meetings:
Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, Nov 13th at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (450 Mart St, basement). On the Agenda:
* City of Williams Lake Airport Fee Amendment Bylaw No. 2286, 2018
* 2019 Grant In Aid Award Recommendations
* Review of General Capital Reserve Fund Bylaw No. 850
* 2019 Fee For Service Agreements
* Community Foundation Review
* Williams Lake and Area Community Wildfire Protection Plan Public Consultation
View the full Agenda here
100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Nov 13th at 7pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue). On the Agenda:
* In-Camera Session at 6:15pm -- Sections 90(1c/d -- labour/security of property) of Community Charter
* Mayor’s Appointments for 2018-22 term -- for approval
* Commissionaires Report for October 2018
* NDIT – Façade Program Support for 2019
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District - Meetings as noted below:
South Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 13th at 1pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers. On the Agenda:
* 2019 Grant for Assistance Applications
* Discussion Items -- South Cariboo Cemetery Function and Forest Grove Cemetery Contribution
View the full Agenda here
North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 13th at 3pm in the CRD Quesnel sub-office (101-410 Kinchant Street, Quesnel). On the Agenda:
* 2019 Proposed Meeting Schedule
* CRD Quesnel Search & Rescue Society Contribution Increase Request
* Discussion Item -- North Cariboo Grants For Assistance
View the full Agenda here
North Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 13th at 5:30pm in the Dunkley Room, West Fraser Centre (330 Vaughn Street, Quesnel). On the Agenda:
* Committee Orientation
* Quesnel Forestry Initiatives
* Quesnel & District Arts and Recreation Centre Grant Application
View the full Agenda here
Next week's local government meetings:
Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, Nov 13th at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (450 Mart St, basement). On the Agenda:
* City of Williams Lake Airport Fee Amendment Bylaw No. 2286, 2018
* 2019 Grant In Aid Award Recommendations
* Review of General Capital Reserve Fund Bylaw No. 850
* 2019 Fee For Service Agreements
* Community Foundation Review
* Williams Lake and Area Community Wildfire Protection Plan Public Consultation
View the full Agenda here
100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Nov 13th at 7pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue). On the Agenda:
* In-Camera Session at 6:15pm -- Sections 90(1c/d -- labour/security of property) of Community Charter
* Mayor’s Appointments for 2018-22 term -- for approval
* Commissionaires Report for October 2018
* NDIT – Façade Program Support for 2019
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District - Meetings as noted below:
South Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 13th at 1pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers. On the Agenda:
* 2019 Grant for Assistance Applications
* Discussion Items -- South Cariboo Cemetery Function and Forest Grove Cemetery Contribution
View the full Agenda here
North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 13th at 3pm in the CRD Quesnel sub-office (101-410 Kinchant Street, Quesnel). On the Agenda:
* 2019 Proposed Meeting Schedule
* CRD Quesnel Search & Rescue Society Contribution Increase Request
* Discussion Item -- North Cariboo Grants For Assistance
View the full Agenda here
North Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 13th at 5:30pm in the Dunkley Room, West Fraser Centre (330 Vaughn Street, Quesnel). On the Agenda:
* Committee Orientation
* Quesnel Forestry Initiatives
* Quesnel & District Arts and Recreation Centre Grant Application
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo RD Board Highlights - Nov 9th mtg
Present: Chair M. Wagner/Vice-Chair J. Massier and Directors M. Sjostrom, B. Bachmeier, S. Forseth, A. Delainey, J. Sorley, A. Richmond, J. Glassford, G. Kirby, C. Mernett, W. Macdonald, G. Fourchalk, B. Simpson, W. Cobb, and M. Campsall
Meeting called to order at 10:33am
Meeting agenda adopted/Minutes of the October 12th, 2018 Cariboo RD Board Meeting received/adopted
Delegations List Memorandum of Business was received by the Board
Business:
Development Services
1) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to Quesnel Fringe Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5172, 2018 and Quesnel Fringe Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5173, 2018 (Area I - Bare)
2) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to South Cariboo Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5174, 2018 and South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5175, 2018 (Area L - DeWitte)
3) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to South Cariboo Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5176, 2018 and South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5177, 2018 (Area L - Bazan)
4) Following a Public Hearing, the Board gave 3rd Reading/Adoption to South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5153, 2018 and Interlakes Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5152, 2018 (Area L - Pavlik)
5) The Board adopted the following Land Use Bylaws:
a) Central Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5088, 2017 (Area F - Moser)
b) North Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5091, 2017 (Area A - Lawlor)
c) Central Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5121, 2017 (Area A - Orica Canada Ltd)
6) The Board deferred consideration ALR Application #ALR1840 until the December Board meeting, so that the Area 'C' Advisory Planning Commission has time to meet and review this application
Director Forseth declared a conflict of interest on the next item as the applicant is a family friend and left the Boardroom at 10:47am
7) ALR Application #ALR 1846 (Area D - Durfeld)
Director Forseth resumed his seat at 10:48am
8) The Board approved ALR Application #ALR1839 (Area L - Strain/Wold) and agreed to refer it to the Provincial Agriculture Land Commission with a recommendation to approve
9) The Board approved ALR Application #ALR1841 (Area L - Christian) and agreed to refer it to the Provincial Agriculture Land Commission with a recommendation to approve
10) The Board received the Municipalities Building Inspection Statistics Report, Cariboo Regional District Statistics Report and the Inspection Activity Report for September 2018
Community Services:
1) The Board approved $40,000 from the 2018 Community Hall Energy Improvements envelope of the Community Works Fund for install a new LED lighting system, as proposed by the 100 Mile Nordics Ski Society and the appropriate Cariboo RD signatories be authorized to enter into the necessary contribution agreement with the 100 Mile Nordics Society
Finance:
1) The Board received/ratified the Monthly Expenditures Board Summary Report and Mastercard Summary Report for the month of October 2018, in the amount of $1,863,644.87
2) The Board authorized expenses only (based on current policies) for former Director Ted Armstrong to participate and provide guidance in the transition to a new CRD representative at the Treaty Advisory Committee and Side Tables, for up to nine months
3) The Board received a report of the Chief Financial Officer concerning UBCM Group Insurance for Elected Officials
4) The Board authorized AON’s contract be extended through 2019 and 2020 and that the Board give serious consideration to continuing with AON until circumstances warrant going to public tender for insurance services
Administration:
1) The Board received the affirmative vote results of the Quesnel Regional Airport Contribution Assent Vote conducted on October 20, 2018
2) The Board received the official results of the 2018 local general elections, as follows:
Elected by voting:
Area A – Mary Sjostrom
Area B – Barb Bachmeier
Area E – Angie Delainey
Area F – Conrad Turcotte
Area J – Gerald Kirby
Area K – Chad Mernett
Area L – Willow MacDonald
Elected by acclamation:
Area C – John Massier
Area D – Steve Forseth
Area G – Al Richmond
Area H – Margo Wagner
Area I – Jim Glassford
3) The Board received a request from Director Campsall to discuss Greyhound’s elimination of bus services and that a Mayors/Chairs forum on bus service in rural BC be explored on this topic and that a letter be forwarded to Merritt Shuttle Bus Service Ltd requesting a discussion in regards to their ongoing challenges in establishing a bus service in the Cariboo...
4) The Board received both the Consent/Financial Consent Calendars, as of November 9th, 2018
5) The Board received a letter from Jennifer Rice, Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Preparedness, Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General, dated October 16, 2018, following up on various discussions at the 2018 UBCM Convention with Cariboo Regional District delegates and that Mr. Tony Fiala be invited to a future meeting to discuss ESS operational issues
Director W. Cobb left the meeting at 11:57am
Board recessed for lunch at 12:00pm
Board resumed at 12:46pm
6) The Board received a copy of a letter from the North Central Local Gov't Association in regards to their support for GeoScience BC's funding request to the Provincial Government for $50 million in funding over a 5 year period
Committee or Commission Minutes/Recommendations:
1) The Board received the October 9th, 2018 minutes of the North Cariboo Joint Committee and endorsed 2 recommendations from that meeting:
a) Application to the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program - Quesnel Pool Renovation
b) North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Service Management Agreement for years 2019-2023 inclusive
Corporate Bylaws:
1) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings/Adoption to CRD Central Cariboo Recreation Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 5183, 2018
2) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings/Adoption to Cariboo Regional District 108 Greenbelt Community Use Property Control Bylaw No. 5184, 2018
Directors' Requests:
a) The Board agreed, at the request of the Chair, to appoint Directors' Wagner and Mernett to the Northern Development Initiative Trust Regional Advisory Committee for the Cariboo-Chilcotin/Lillioet region and that after attending each meeting, the appointees write a brief report back to the Board for its information.
The Chair informed the Board of her appointment of Director Forseth as Chair of Finance Committee and Director Massier as the CRD Treaty Rep at NStQ Treaty Tables/Side Tables and outlined the process for appointments to internal/external Committees...
b) The Board received the report of the Chair, for the period up to November 8th
Closed Board Meeting Session:
At 1:01pm -- the Board recessed its public meeting in order to conduct an In-Camera Session as per Sections 90(1a/c - appointment/labour) of the Community Charter
Resumption of Open Board Meeting:
At 1:14pm -- the Board resumed its' public meeting
Directors' reported on their activities in their Electoral Area or Municipality
The Board agreed to adjourn at 1:55pm
Meeting called to order at 10:33am
Meeting agenda adopted/Minutes of the October 12th, 2018 Cariboo RD Board Meeting received/adopted
Delegations List Memorandum of Business was received by the Board
Business:
Development Services
1) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to Quesnel Fringe Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5172, 2018 and Quesnel Fringe Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5173, 2018 (Area I - Bare)
2) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to South Cariboo Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5174, 2018 and South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5175, 2018 (Area L - DeWitte)
3) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to South Cariboo Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5176, 2018 and South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5177, 2018 (Area L - Bazan)
4) Following a Public Hearing, the Board gave 3rd Reading/Adoption to South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5153, 2018 and Interlakes Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5152, 2018 (Area L - Pavlik)
5) The Board adopted the following Land Use Bylaws:
a) Central Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5088, 2017 (Area F - Moser)
b) North Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5091, 2017 (Area A - Lawlor)
c) Central Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5121, 2017 (Area A - Orica Canada Ltd)
6) The Board deferred consideration ALR Application #ALR1840 until the December Board meeting, so that the Area 'C' Advisory Planning Commission has time to meet and review this application
Director Forseth declared a conflict of interest on the next item as the applicant is a family friend and left the Boardroom at 10:47am
7) ALR Application #ALR 1846 (Area D - Durfeld)
Director Forseth resumed his seat at 10:48am
8) The Board approved ALR Application #ALR1839 (Area L - Strain/Wold) and agreed to refer it to the Provincial Agriculture Land Commission with a recommendation to approve
9) The Board approved ALR Application #ALR1841 (Area L - Christian) and agreed to refer it to the Provincial Agriculture Land Commission with a recommendation to approve
10) The Board received the Municipalities Building Inspection Statistics Report, Cariboo Regional District Statistics Report and the Inspection Activity Report for September 2018
Community Services:
1) The Board approved $40,000 from the 2018 Community Hall Energy Improvements envelope of the Community Works Fund for install a new LED lighting system, as proposed by the 100 Mile Nordics Ski Society and the appropriate Cariboo RD signatories be authorized to enter into the necessary contribution agreement with the 100 Mile Nordics Society
Finance:
1) The Board received/ratified the Monthly Expenditures Board Summary Report and Mastercard Summary Report for the month of October 2018, in the amount of $1,863,644.87
2) The Board authorized expenses only (based on current policies) for former Director Ted Armstrong to participate and provide guidance in the transition to a new CRD representative at the Treaty Advisory Committee and Side Tables, for up to nine months
3) The Board received a report of the Chief Financial Officer concerning UBCM Group Insurance for Elected Officials
4) The Board authorized AON’s contract be extended through 2019 and 2020 and that the Board give serious consideration to continuing with AON until circumstances warrant going to public tender for insurance services
Administration:
1) The Board received the affirmative vote results of the Quesnel Regional Airport Contribution Assent Vote conducted on October 20, 2018
2) The Board received the official results of the 2018 local general elections, as follows:
Elected by voting:
Area A – Mary Sjostrom
Area B – Barb Bachmeier
Area E – Angie Delainey
Area F – Conrad Turcotte
Area J – Gerald Kirby
Area K – Chad Mernett
Area L – Willow MacDonald
Elected by acclamation:
Area C – John Massier
Area D – Steve Forseth
Area G – Al Richmond
Area H – Margo Wagner
Area I – Jim Glassford
3) The Board received a request from Director Campsall to discuss Greyhound’s elimination of bus services and that a Mayors/Chairs forum on bus service in rural BC be explored on this topic and that a letter be forwarded to Merritt Shuttle Bus Service Ltd requesting a discussion in regards to their ongoing challenges in establishing a bus service in the Cariboo...
4) The Board received both the Consent/Financial Consent Calendars, as of November 9th, 2018
5) The Board received a letter from Jennifer Rice, Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Preparedness, Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General, dated October 16, 2018, following up on various discussions at the 2018 UBCM Convention with Cariboo Regional District delegates and that Mr. Tony Fiala be invited to a future meeting to discuss ESS operational issues
Director W. Cobb left the meeting at 11:57am
Board recessed for lunch at 12:00pm
Board resumed at 12:46pm
6) The Board received a copy of a letter from the North Central Local Gov't Association in regards to their support for GeoScience BC's funding request to the Provincial Government for $50 million in funding over a 5 year period
Committee or Commission Minutes/Recommendations:
1) The Board received the October 9th, 2018 minutes of the North Cariboo Joint Committee and endorsed 2 recommendations from that meeting:
a) Application to the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program - Quesnel Pool Renovation
b) North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Service Management Agreement for years 2019-2023 inclusive
Corporate Bylaws:
1) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings/Adoption to CRD Central Cariboo Recreation Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 5183, 2018
2) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings/Adoption to Cariboo Regional District 108 Greenbelt Community Use Property Control Bylaw No. 5184, 2018
Directors' Requests:
a) The Board agreed, at the request of the Chair, to appoint Directors' Wagner and Mernett to the Northern Development Initiative Trust Regional Advisory Committee for the Cariboo-Chilcotin/Lillioet region and that after attending each meeting, the appointees write a brief report back to the Board for its information.
The Chair informed the Board of her appointment of Director Forseth as Chair of Finance Committee and Director Massier as the CRD Treaty Rep at NStQ Treaty Tables/Side Tables and outlined the process for appointments to internal/external Committees...
b) The Board received the report of the Chair, for the period up to November 8th
Closed Board Meeting Session:
At 1:01pm -- the Board recessed its public meeting in order to conduct an In-Camera Session as per Sections 90(1a/c - appointment/labour) of the Community Charter
Resumption of Open Board Meeting:
At 1:14pm -- the Board resumed its' public meeting
Directors' reported on their activities in their Electoral Area or Municipality
The Board agreed to adjourn at 1:55pm
CCRHD Board Highlights - Nov 9th mtg
Present: Chair B. Simpson/Vice-Chair A. Richmond and Directors M. Sjostrom, B. Bachmeier, J. Massier, S. Forseth, A. Delainey, J. Sorley, M. Wagner, J. Glassford, G. Kirby, C. Mernett, W. Macdonald, G. Fourchalk, W. Cobb and M. Campsall
Meeting called to order at 9:30am
Meeting Agenda adopted/Minutes of the Oct 12th, 2018 CCRHD Board Meeting received/adopted
Business:
1) The Board received the Memorandum of Business - Delegations
2) The Board received the Hospital Consent Calendar as of November 9th, 2018
3) The Board received Interior Health's - Capital Projects and Planning Status Report for September 2018
4) The Chair reviewed the following items with the Board:
a) Interior Health Regional Hospital District Chairs Meeting in Kelowna
b) GR Baker Memorial Hospital Intensive Care Unit/Emergency Department Project and CMH Hospital Redevelopment Project
c) Building Relationships with the First Nations Health Authorities
The Board adjourned at 10:32am
Meeting called to order at 9:30am
Meeting Agenda adopted/Minutes of the Oct 12th, 2018 CCRHD Board Meeting received/adopted
Business:
1) The Board received the Memorandum of Business - Delegations
2) The Board received the Hospital Consent Calendar as of November 9th, 2018
3) The Board received Interior Health's - Capital Projects and Planning Status Report for September 2018
4) The Chair reviewed the following items with the Board:
a) Interior Health Regional Hospital District Chairs Meeting in Kelowna
b) GR Baker Memorial Hospital Intensive Care Unit/Emergency Department Project and CMH Hospital Redevelopment Project
c) Building Relationships with the First Nations Health Authorities
The Board adjourned at 10:32am
2018 BC Recall Campaigns may commence today!
Today - a registered voter may initiate a recall petition against a sitting MLA under the provisions of the Recall and Initiative Act which was enacted by the NDP Government of the Day in 1995
26 Recall Petitions have been initiated since 1995 and none have been successful to date - full details on the process can be viewed here
In terms of potential recall campaigns:
1) BC Legislature Speaker (and MLA for Abbotsford-South) -- kicked out of the BC Liberal Caucus after accepting the Speakership. Matter was discussed by his constituents in July 2017 but whether anger still exists we'll have to wait and see
2) Attorney-General David Eby (and MLA for Vancouver-Point Grey) -- a website has been established to explore the possibility of launching a recall petition - click here
Given provincial political history on recall campaigns in BC -- I do expect that any recall campaigns launched will not be successful and those who have issues with MLA's Eby/Plecas will have to wait until the BC Election of Fall 2021 to attempt a campaign to unseat these MLA's at that point...
~SF
26 Recall Petitions have been initiated since 1995 and none have been successful to date - full details on the process can be viewed here
In terms of potential recall campaigns:
1) BC Legislature Speaker (and MLA for Abbotsford-South) -- kicked out of the BC Liberal Caucus after accepting the Speakership. Matter was discussed by his constituents in July 2017 but whether anger still exists we'll have to wait and see
2) Attorney-General David Eby (and MLA for Vancouver-Point Grey) -- a website has been established to explore the possibility of launching a recall petition - click here
Given provincial political history on recall campaigns in BC -- I do expect that any recall campaigns launched will not be successful and those who have issues with MLA's Eby/Plecas will have to wait until the BC Election of Fall 2021 to attempt a campaign to unseat these MLA's at that point...
~SF
Thursday, November 8, 2018
Inaugural Mtg/2018-22 Cariboo RD Board of Directors'
Present:
Directors-elect M. Sjostrom, B. Bachmeier, J. Massier, S. Forseth, A. Delainey, A. Richmond, M. Wagner, J. Glassford, G. Kirby, C. Mernett, W. Macdonald, G. Fourchalk, W. Cobb and M. Campsall
Members of the public
Members of local media
Directors-elect M. Sjostrom, B. Bachmeier, J. Massier, S. Forseth, A. Delainey, A. Richmond, M. Wagner, J. Glassford, G. Kirby, C. Mernett, W. Macdonald, G. Fourchalk, W. Cobb and M. Campsall
Members of the public
Members of local media
Meeting called to order at 9am by the Deputy CAO (A. Johnston)
Invocation performed by Williams Lake Indian Band Elder Virginia Gilbert
Oaths of Office for all Electoral Area and Municipal Directors' was conducted by Provincial Court Judge P. Whyte
Election of Chair/Vice-Chair:
Director Richmond nominated Director Wagner for Chair of the Cariboo Regional District for 2019. Director Wagner consented to her nomination
The Deputy CAO called 3 times for further nominations. None received. The Deputy CAO declared Director Wagner Chair of the Cariboo Regional District Board of Directors' for 2019
Director Forseth nominated Director Massier for Vice-Chair of the Cariboo Regional District for 2019. Director Massier consented to his nomination
The Deputy CAO called 3 times for further nominations. None received. The Deputy CAO declared Director Massier Vice-Chair of the Cariboo Regional District Board of Directors' for 2019
Orientation Session:
The Board received a 3 part Orientation Session, as follows:
a) Presentation by CivicLegal
b) Presentations by CRD Staff
c) Presentation by the newly elected CRD Chair
The Board agreed to adjourn at 4:20pm
The Board received a 3 part Orientation Session, as follows:
a) Presentation by CivicLegal
b) Presentations by CRD Staff
c) Presentation by the newly elected CRD Chair
The Board agreed to adjourn at 4:20pm
Tuesday, November 6, 2018
Inaugural Mtg/2018-22 WL City Council
Present: Mayor-elect W.Cobb; Councillors-elect S. Boehm, I. Bonnell, M. Brenner, S. Nelson, J. Ryll and C. Smith
Members of local media
Members of the public
First Nations Drumming and Indigenous Blessing was performed by Chief Willie Sellars, Williams Lake Indian Band
Oaths of Office were conducted by the City's Corporate Officer for the 2018-22 Williams Lake City Council Members
Pastor Jay McAlister from the Calvary Church provided the Invocation and Blessing for the newly elected Williams Lake City Council for years 2018-2022 inclusive
Inaugural Addresses by Members of Williams Lake City Council Members -- Mayor Cobb and Councillors Boehm, Bonnell, Brenner, Nelson, Ryll and Smith
Inaugural Business:
1) Annual Council Meeting Schedule for 2019
Council approved the Annual Council Meeting Schedule for 2019, as outlined in the report from the City's Director of Legislative Services - click here
2) Designation of Councillors as Acting Mayor - 2019
Council approved the 2019 list of Councillors to act as Acting Mayor, in the absence of Mayor Cobb - click here
3) Council Appointments for 2018/19
Council received for information the appointments of Mayor Walt Cobb for Council appointments to Committees, Standing Committees, Ad Hoc/Select Committees and Community Committees for the 2018/2019 term - click here
4) Cariboo Regional District Appointments for 2018/2019 - Director and Alternate Director
Council appointed Mayor Walt Cobb to serve on the Cariboo Regional District Board as the City of Williams Lake Director with Councillor Jason Ryll to serve as the City's Alternate Director
5) Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) Regional Advisory Board Appointments
Council appointed Councillor Craig Smith to the Northern Development Initiative Trust Regional Advisory Board as the City's Director for 2018/2019 and Mayor Walt Cobb be appointed as the City's Alternate Director.
Other Business:
1) Downtown Business Improvement Area Renewal 2019-2023
Council approved the request from the Downtown Williams Lake Business Improvement Association for renewal of the Williams Lake Downtown Business Improvement Area Bylaw for a further 5-year term effective January 1, 2019, subject to counter petition, and Bylaw No. 2294 be introduced and given 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings and Staff were directed to issue notice of the 30 day counter petition process, pursuant to Section 211 of the Community Charter - click here
2) Proposal for an International High School / College / University in Williams Lake
Council received/endorsed the proposal for an international high school in Williams Lake from the Canada Asia Economic & Culture Association and Council directed the Economic Development Officer to work with the Canada Asia Economic & Culture Association to take the necessary actions to assist in the investment attraction required to establish an independent international high school/college/university in Williams Lake- click here
Council agreed to adjourn to a reception at 6:55pm
Members of local media
Members of the public
First Nations Drumming and Indigenous Blessing was performed by Chief Willie Sellars, Williams Lake Indian Band
Oaths of Office were conducted by the City's Corporate Officer for the 2018-22 Williams Lake City Council Members
Pastor Jay McAlister from the Calvary Church provided the Invocation and Blessing for the newly elected Williams Lake City Council for years 2018-2022 inclusive
Inaugural Addresses by Members of Williams Lake City Council Members -- Mayor Cobb and Councillors Boehm, Bonnell, Brenner, Nelson, Ryll and Smith
Inaugural Business:
1) Annual Council Meeting Schedule for 2019
Council approved the Annual Council Meeting Schedule for 2019, as outlined in the report from the City's Director of Legislative Services - click here
2) Designation of Councillors as Acting Mayor - 2019
Council approved the 2019 list of Councillors to act as Acting Mayor, in the absence of Mayor Cobb - click here
3) Council Appointments for 2018/19
Council received for information the appointments of Mayor Walt Cobb for Council appointments to Committees, Standing Committees, Ad Hoc/Select Committees and Community Committees for the 2018/2019 term - click here
4) Cariboo Regional District Appointments for 2018/2019 - Director and Alternate Director
Council appointed Mayor Walt Cobb to serve on the Cariboo Regional District Board as the City of Williams Lake Director with Councillor Jason Ryll to serve as the City's Alternate Director
5) Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) Regional Advisory Board Appointments
Council appointed Councillor Craig Smith to the Northern Development Initiative Trust Regional Advisory Board as the City's Director for 2018/2019 and Mayor Walt Cobb be appointed as the City's Alternate Director.
Other Business:
1) Downtown Business Improvement Area Renewal 2019-2023
Council approved the request from the Downtown Williams Lake Business Improvement Association for renewal of the Williams Lake Downtown Business Improvement Area Bylaw for a further 5-year term effective January 1, 2019, subject to counter petition, and Bylaw No. 2294 be introduced and given 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings and Staff were directed to issue notice of the 30 day counter petition process, pursuant to Section 211 of the Community Charter - click here
2) Proposal for an International High School / College / University in Williams Lake
Council received/endorsed the proposal for an international high school in Williams Lake from the Canada Asia Economic & Culture Association and Council directed the Economic Development Officer to work with the Canada Asia Economic & Culture Association to take the necessary actions to assist in the investment attraction required to establish an independent international high school/college/university in Williams Lake- click here
Council agreed to adjourn to a reception at 6:55pm
Province making changes to speed limits in BC
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
The British Columbia government is lowering speed limits on 15 sections of highway in the province to keep people safer and reduce the chance of speed-related collisions.
"We know people want to get where they’re going quickly. Our job is to help make sure they also get there safely,” said Claire Trevena, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “Since the former government raised speed limits in 2014, serious crashes have been on the rise. By rolling back speed limits slightly, our goal is to reduce accidents, keep roads open and protect the lives of British Columbians.”
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has thoroughly reviewed three years’ worth of data on 33 segments and 1,300 kilometres of highway, where speed limits were increased as part of the 2014 Rural Safety and Speed Review.
As a result, 15 sections of highway, totalling 570 kilometres, will have speed limits rolled back by 10 km/h. Along with the two corridors that were lowered in 2016, this represents 660 kilometres of B.C. highways where speed limits are being rolled back. The remaining routes did not show higher accident rates and the speed limits will remain the same, including the Coquihalla where variable speed limits are in operation.
“Speeding has been one of the top three factors contributing to car crashes, especially in rural and remote areas of B.C.” said Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer. “Research has shown that reducing speed lowers the number of crashes and severity of injuries, so I am very supportive of the speed limit reductions announced today. I look forward to the safety measures that will be implemented on B.C. roads, and will continue to work with the Road Safety Strategy Steering Committee to advocate for initiatives that will help keep all road users in B.C. healthy and safe.”
Ministry staff considered all contributing factors in serious highway collisions. This includes speed, distracted driving, wildlife, changing weather and people driving too fast for conditions.
“The BC Trucking Association is very supportive of the government’s decision to roll back speed limits on selected highway segments,” said Dave Earle, president and CEO of the association. “The stopping distance for heavy commercial vehicles increases at higher speeds, as does the force of impact, so safety measures that help reduce these risks for both commercial and passenger vehicle drivers are important. As well as safety, lower speeds mean greater fuel efficiency and fewer greenhouse gas emissions, a welcome side effect worth noting.”
On all corridors where collisions increased, the RCMP will be boosting its enforcement to make sure people are respecting posted speed limits and driving safely.
"BC RCMP Traffic Services members will be doing our part to enforce the reduced speed limits. Slowing down can significantly reduce the severity of a collision and the chance of drivers being severely injured or killed,” said RCMP Inspector Tim Walton, officer in charge, Island District Traffic Services. “As we shift into winter driving mode, police are reminding drivers to obey speed limits, adopt safe and defensive driving habits, and to drive sober and distraction-free.”
As a result of the review, the ministry will also employ and use road weather information systems connected to dynamic message signs on Highway 99, from Horseshoe Bay to Whistler, to give drivers real-time road information so they can better drive to conditions.
Quick Facts:
- The top three contributing factors for segments with increased collisions are driver inattentiveness, road conditions and driving too fast for conditions.
- On the Coquihalla, 46% of serious collisions were caused by driver inattentiveness and driving too fast for conditions.
- On 14 of the 33 segments reviewed, the average operating speed either stayed the same or decreased after speed limits were increased, including the Coquihalla.
Learn More:
A summary report of the three year post-implementation review can be found here: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/2018-speed-review
Changes in Full:
Based on the recently completed review of three years of data, the speed limits are being rolled back by 10 km/h on the following 15 highway corridors that have seen any increase in collisions:
- Highway 1: Cowichan Bay to Nanaimo – 90 km/h to 80 km/h
- Highway 1: Whatcom Road to Hope – 110 km/h to 100 km/h
- Highway 1: Boston Bar to Jackass Mountain – 100 km/h to 90 km/h
- Highway 1: Tobiano to Savona – 100 km/h to 90 km/h
- Highway 1: Chase to Sorrento - 100 km/h to 90 km/h
- Highway 3: Sunday Summit to Princeton – 90 km/h to 80 km/h
- Highway 7: Agassiz to Hope – 100 km/h to 90 km/h
- Highway 19: Parksville to Campbell River - 120 km/h to 110 km/h
- Highway 19: Bloedel to Sayward – 100 km/h to 90 km/h
- Highway 97A: Grindrod to Sicamous – 90 km/h to 80 km/h
- Highway 97C: Merritt to Aspen Grove – 110 km/h to 100 km/h
- Highway 97C: Aspen Grove to Peachland – 120 km/h to 110 km/h
- Highway 99: Horseshoe Bay to Squamish – 90 km/h to 80 km/h
- Highway 99: Squamish to Whistler – 100 km/h to 90 km/h
- Highway 99: Whistler to Pemberton – 90 km/h to 80 km/h
The following 16 corridors showed no reduction in safety, and speed limits will remain the same:
- Highway 1: Salmon Arm to Revelstoke – 100 km/h
- Highway 1: Revelstoke to Golden – 100 km/h
- Highway 3: Hope to Coquihalla – 110 km/h
- Highway 3: Sunshine Valley to Manning Park East Boundary – 100 km/h
- Highway 5: Hope to Kamloops – 120 km/h
- Highway 5: Heffley to Little Fort – 100 km/h
- Highway 6: New Denver to Hills – 90 km/h
- Highway 6: Summit Lake to Nakusp – 100 km/h
- Highway 19: Campbell River to Bloedel – 90 km/h
- Highway 19: Port McNeill to Port Hardy – 100 km/h
- Highway 33: McCulloch Road to Black Mountain – 100 km/h
- Highway 33: Rock Creek to Westbridge – 100 km/h
- Highway 97: Cache Creek to 100 Mile House – 110 km/h
- Highway 97: Swan Lake to Monte Creek – 90 km/h
- Highway 97A: Armstrong to Enderby – 100 km/h
- Highway 99: Lillooet to Cache Creek – 100 km/h
CRD Libraries launch ‘Re-Imagine Your Library’ campaign
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
The Cariboo Regional District library network is launching a public engagement process as they strategically plan for the future. Residents are asked to re-imagine their libraries and provide feedback through a variety of activities throughout November and December 2018.
All are invited to take the online survey or join in the Question of the Week series through the displays at the library or the library Facebook pages. Librarians will also be going through the Quesnel, 100 Mile House and Williams Lake branches periodically with short polls for patrons to answer. All the activities encourage participants to share what they like about the library and what they would like to see improved.
This public engagement process is part of the CRD’s goal of developing a strategic plan for library services, as outlined in the service’s 2018 and 2019 five-year business plan (p. 47). Strategic plans are a common planning tool for libraries. A strategic plan will provide direction and focus for the development of library services and inform future business plans. The plan will incorporate feedback gathered through this process and through an internal engagement process with library staff.
The Cariboo Regional District Library is an integrated public library system that currently provides library services to residents of the regional district through fifteen branch libraries.
Quick Links:
All are invited to take the online survey or join in the Question of the Week series through the displays at the library or the library Facebook pages. Librarians will also be going through the Quesnel, 100 Mile House and Williams Lake branches periodically with short polls for patrons to answer. All the activities encourage participants to share what they like about the library and what they would like to see improved.
This public engagement process is part of the CRD’s goal of developing a strategic plan for library services, as outlined in the service’s 2018 and 2019 five-year business plan (p. 47). Strategic plans are a common planning tool for libraries. A strategic plan will provide direction and focus for the development of library services and inform future business plans. The plan will incorporate feedback gathered through this process and through an internal engagement process with library staff.
The Cariboo Regional District Library is an integrated public library system that currently provides library services to residents of the regional district through fifteen branch libraries.
Quick Links:
Monday, November 5, 2018
NCLGA 2019 Convention Registration Opens!
Today - Registration opened for the 2019 North Central Local Government Association's AGM/Convention to be held in Williams Lake, BC from May 7-10, 2019. This is a joint partnership between the City of Williams Lake and the Cariboo Regional District. The last time the NCLGA or its' predecessor, NCMA, was in Williams Lake was in 2007
On the Draft Agenda:
* Tours -- Half Day Pioneer Log Homes Tour or Half Day Gibraltar Mine Tour or Full Day Xatsull Village Tour or Full Day Alex Fraser Research Forest Tour
Note -- Gibraltar Mines and Xat'sull Village are both within my Electoral Area.... :)
* Usual AGM Business
* 2019 NCLGA Resolutions Debate
* Learning and Networking Sessions
* Rural Directors Roundtable
View the full details here
Looking forward to seeing all the NCLGA delegates at #NCLGA2019 in Williams Lake
~SF
On the Draft Agenda:
* Tours -- Half Day Pioneer Log Homes Tour or Half Day Gibraltar Mine Tour or Full Day Xatsull Village Tour or Full Day Alex Fraser Research Forest Tour
Note -- Gibraltar Mines and Xat'sull Village are both within my Electoral Area.... :)
* Usual AGM Business
* 2019 NCLGA Resolutions Debate
* Learning and Networking Sessions
* Rural Directors Roundtable
View the full details here
Looking forward to seeing all the NCLGA delegates at #NCLGA2019 in Williams Lake
~SF
New legislation makes it clear: "Farmland is for farming"
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
Legislation introduced on Monday, Nov. 5, 2018, makes it clear that land in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) is for farming and ranching in British Columbia, not for dumping construction waste or building mega-mansions.
“The old government let wealthy speculators drive the price of farmland out of reach for young farmers and allowed some of our most valuable agricultural land to be damaged,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture. “We are protecting farmland in B.C. to ensure land is available now and for future generations of farmers, so people in British Columbia have a safe, secure supply of locally grown food on their tables for years to come.”
If passed, Bill 52, the agricultural land commission amendment act, 2018, will strengthen protections for B.C.’s Agricultural Land Reserve. The proposed legislation makes three key changes:
Restoring the integrity of the ALR by reinstating one zone for all ALR land in B.C., making it clear that all land in the ALR benefits from the same strong protections.
Addressing mega-mansions and speculation in the ALR by limiting new house sizes to less than 500 square metres [about 5,400 square feet], except through application to the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) in cases where it would support farming; and requiring an ALC approval of any additional residences in the ALR to curb non-farm development.
Cracking down on the dumping of construction debris, toxic waste and other fill in the ALR that can irreparably damage arable soil on valuable farmland, through increased penalties.
The legislative changes will help stop damaging practices that contaminate farmland and make farms unaffordable for new farmers, and threaten the short-term and long-term viability of the ALR. They are designed to protect the province’s farmland so British Columbians can access locally grown food, and communities and local economies can prosper through farming, ranching and agriculture businesses, such as B.C.’s growing food-processing sector.
“I am thrilled that the government is acting decisively to stem speculation on farmland,” said Adam Olsen, MLA for Saanich North. “The ALR is vital to our local food security and for realizing B.C.'s economic opportunities in the agricultural sector. I look forward to working further with government to find more ways to support B.C. farmers and protect our agricultural land.”
The bill is part of the government’s ongoing commitment to revitalize the ALR and the ALC. The new legislation will advance several recommendations in the independent report released by the Minister of Agriculture’s Advisory Committee.
“Agriculture drives prosperity in communities throughout B.C., and we are fortunate that 45 years ago the Province had the foresight to protect B.C.’s best and most capable agricultural land,” said Popham. “In an era where food security is a growing global issue, our legislative changes intend to protect ALR land for its highest and best use – agricultural production.”
The ALR was established in 1973 to protect land with prime agricultural conditions for farming and ranching. It currently protects approximately 4.6 million hectares of agriculturally suitable land in British Columbia. The ALR is administered by the ALC, an independent tribunal mandated to preserve agricultural land and encourage farming on agricultural land.
A backgrounder on this can be viewed here
Legislation introduced on Monday, Nov. 5, 2018, makes it clear that land in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) is for farming and ranching in British Columbia, not for dumping construction waste or building mega-mansions.
“The old government let wealthy speculators drive the price of farmland out of reach for young farmers and allowed some of our most valuable agricultural land to be damaged,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture. “We are protecting farmland in B.C. to ensure land is available now and for future generations of farmers, so people in British Columbia have a safe, secure supply of locally grown food on their tables for years to come.”
If passed, Bill 52, the agricultural land commission amendment act, 2018, will strengthen protections for B.C.’s Agricultural Land Reserve. The proposed legislation makes three key changes:
Restoring the integrity of the ALR by reinstating one zone for all ALR land in B.C., making it clear that all land in the ALR benefits from the same strong protections.
Addressing mega-mansions and speculation in the ALR by limiting new house sizes to less than 500 square metres [about 5,400 square feet], except through application to the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) in cases where it would support farming; and requiring an ALC approval of any additional residences in the ALR to curb non-farm development.
Cracking down on the dumping of construction debris, toxic waste and other fill in the ALR that can irreparably damage arable soil on valuable farmland, through increased penalties.
The legislative changes will help stop damaging practices that contaminate farmland and make farms unaffordable for new farmers, and threaten the short-term and long-term viability of the ALR. They are designed to protect the province’s farmland so British Columbians can access locally grown food, and communities and local economies can prosper through farming, ranching and agriculture businesses, such as B.C.’s growing food-processing sector.
“I am thrilled that the government is acting decisively to stem speculation on farmland,” said Adam Olsen, MLA for Saanich North. “The ALR is vital to our local food security and for realizing B.C.'s economic opportunities in the agricultural sector. I look forward to working further with government to find more ways to support B.C. farmers and protect our agricultural land.”
The bill is part of the government’s ongoing commitment to revitalize the ALR and the ALC. The new legislation will advance several recommendations in the independent report released by the Minister of Agriculture’s Advisory Committee.
“Agriculture drives prosperity in communities throughout B.C., and we are fortunate that 45 years ago the Province had the foresight to protect B.C.’s best and most capable agricultural land,” said Popham. “In an era where food security is a growing global issue, our legislative changes intend to protect ALR land for its highest and best use – agricultural production.”
The ALR was established in 1973 to protect land with prime agricultural conditions for farming and ranching. It currently protects approximately 4.6 million hectares of agriculturally suitable land in British Columbia. The ALR is administered by the ALC, an independent tribunal mandated to preserve agricultural land and encourage farming on agricultural land.
A backgrounder on this can be viewed here
New legislation to put public interest first in resource decisions
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
The British Columbia government has introduced legislation to modernize the environmental assessment (EA) of major resource projects.
This is designed to provide a clear and timely path for the approval of responsible resource projects, pursue reconciliation with B.C.’s Indigenous peoples, increase public engagement and transparency and deliver stronger environmental protections.
British Columbia was one of the first provinces in Canada to introduce environmental assessment legislation in 1995 and is making its comprehensive regulatory framework stronger.
“By revitalizing our environmental assessment process, we’re striking a better balance for our province, where good projects that respect B.C.’s environment, Indigenous peoples and the public will be approved more quickly,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. “Our province was built upon the wealth of natural resources at our disposal. This legislation reaffirms the continued importance of these resources to British Columbians and enhances public trust by engaging people and communities early to ensure our resources are used sustainably. Growing a strong economy and protecting the environment we all cherish go hand in hand. That’s the legacy we want our kids and grandkids to inherit.”
Revitalizing the environmental assessment process in B.C. is a shared priority between government and the B.C. Green Party caucus, and is part of the Confidence and Supply Agreement.
“Revitalizing the environmental assessment process is a key shared commitment because we both recognize the need to strengthen public trust in government decision-making,” said Sonia Furstenau, MLA for Cowichan Valley. “It is vital to modernize the EA process so that important considerations like climate change, cumulative impacts and new scientific standards are properly incorporated. I look forward to discussing the legislation further, so we can ensure that the wealth of our natural resources and the well-being of our ecological systems can be enjoyed by British Columbians for generations to come.”
In introducing the environmental assessment act, Heyman said Indigenous participation in environmental assessments will also be greatly enhanced. If passed, the legislation will result in an EA process delivering timely, evidence-based decisions where the public can more actively participate. The legislation reflects government’s commitment to reconciliation and implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
“Having Indigenous collaboration from the beginning means a more certain and efficient process where good projects can move forward more quickly, providing benefits to Indigenous peoples while respecting their rights, values and culture.” said Heyman. “We want to reduce the potential for the types of legal challenges we’ve too frequently seen in B.C. These have impacted our province’s economic development, eroded public trust, alienated Indigenous communities and left project proponents trying to navigate through a costly, time-consuming process.”
The legislation will also provide:
Increased clarity and certainty to project proponents through an early engagement phase that will identify the focus areas for the project assessment prior to proceeding through an environmental assessment.
Enhanced public engagement including additional comment periods and earlier collaboration between the Environmental Assessment Office and local communities, coupled with funding to support public participation.
The ability to more fully assess positive and adverse environmental, economic, social, cultural and health effects, including greenhouse gas emissions, and require their consideration in decisions.
Strengthened compliance and enforcement for approved projects, along with audits, to make sure conditions included in EA certificates are mitigating identified adverse effects as intended.
Government has been engaging extensively on a revitalized EA process for over one year, consulting with Indigenous peoples, industry, communities, environmental organizations and the public. This included:
Establishing an EA advisory committee that included a cross-section of members from industry, academia, non-governmental organizations, Indigenous peoples and local governments. The committee met for over 75 hours and produced a report recommending changes to the current EA process and legislative framework.
Direct engagement with a variety of key stakeholders including industry and business associations, environmental organizations, local governments and EA practitioners.
Extensive engagements with Indigenous peoples through bilateral meetings and regional workshops.
A public-comment period on a discussion paper outlining the proposed changes, which received over 2,500 public comments and 60 formal submissions from Indigenous peoples, industry and stakeholders.
The British Columbia government has introduced legislation to modernize the environmental assessment (EA) of major resource projects.
This is designed to provide a clear and timely path for the approval of responsible resource projects, pursue reconciliation with B.C.’s Indigenous peoples, increase public engagement and transparency and deliver stronger environmental protections.
British Columbia was one of the first provinces in Canada to introduce environmental assessment legislation in 1995 and is making its comprehensive regulatory framework stronger.
“By revitalizing our environmental assessment process, we’re striking a better balance for our province, where good projects that respect B.C.’s environment, Indigenous peoples and the public will be approved more quickly,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. “Our province was built upon the wealth of natural resources at our disposal. This legislation reaffirms the continued importance of these resources to British Columbians and enhances public trust by engaging people and communities early to ensure our resources are used sustainably. Growing a strong economy and protecting the environment we all cherish go hand in hand. That’s the legacy we want our kids and grandkids to inherit.”
Revitalizing the environmental assessment process in B.C. is a shared priority between government and the B.C. Green Party caucus, and is part of the Confidence and Supply Agreement.
“Revitalizing the environmental assessment process is a key shared commitment because we both recognize the need to strengthen public trust in government decision-making,” said Sonia Furstenau, MLA for Cowichan Valley. “It is vital to modernize the EA process so that important considerations like climate change, cumulative impacts and new scientific standards are properly incorporated. I look forward to discussing the legislation further, so we can ensure that the wealth of our natural resources and the well-being of our ecological systems can be enjoyed by British Columbians for generations to come.”
In introducing the environmental assessment act, Heyman said Indigenous participation in environmental assessments will also be greatly enhanced. If passed, the legislation will result in an EA process delivering timely, evidence-based decisions where the public can more actively participate. The legislation reflects government’s commitment to reconciliation and implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
“Having Indigenous collaboration from the beginning means a more certain and efficient process where good projects can move forward more quickly, providing benefits to Indigenous peoples while respecting their rights, values and culture.” said Heyman. “We want to reduce the potential for the types of legal challenges we’ve too frequently seen in B.C. These have impacted our province’s economic development, eroded public trust, alienated Indigenous communities and left project proponents trying to navigate through a costly, time-consuming process.”
The legislation will also provide:
Increased clarity and certainty to project proponents through an early engagement phase that will identify the focus areas for the project assessment prior to proceeding through an environmental assessment.
Enhanced public engagement including additional comment periods and earlier collaboration between the Environmental Assessment Office and local communities, coupled with funding to support public participation.
The ability to more fully assess positive and adverse environmental, economic, social, cultural and health effects, including greenhouse gas emissions, and require their consideration in decisions.
Strengthened compliance and enforcement for approved projects, along with audits, to make sure conditions included in EA certificates are mitigating identified adverse effects as intended.
Government has been engaging extensively on a revitalized EA process for over one year, consulting with Indigenous peoples, industry, communities, environmental organizations and the public. This included:
Establishing an EA advisory committee that included a cross-section of members from industry, academia, non-governmental organizations, Indigenous peoples and local governments. The committee met for over 75 hours and produced a report recommending changes to the current EA process and legislative framework.
Direct engagement with a variety of key stakeholders including industry and business associations, environmental organizations, local governments and EA practitioners.
Extensive engagements with Indigenous peoples through bilateral meetings and regional workshops.
A public-comment period on a discussion paper outlining the proposed changes, which received over 2,500 public comments and 60 formal submissions from Indigenous peoples, industry and stakeholders.
Friday, November 2, 2018
Local Gov't Mtgs - Week of Nov 5-9
Next week - most local governments or Boards of Education of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be holding their Inaugural Meetings, as follows:
Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Nov 6th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue). On the Agenda:
* Inaugural Addresses - Mayor Fourchalk/Councillor Dorwart
* Proposed CAO/Staff Evaluation Template
* Consideration of 2019 Grants in Aid
* Consideration of 1st,2nd and 3rd Readings to amendment to "District of Wells Payment of Remuneration and Expenses to the Members of the Wells District Council Bylaw No. 166, 2018"
* Consideration of 1st,2nd and 3rd Readings to Proposed District of Wells Officers and Delegation of Authority Bylaw No. 173, 2018
* In-Camera Session -- Section 90 (1), (a), (c), (l), (m), and (n) of the Community Charter (appointment, labour, annual report, matter under another law that the public may be excluded from a public meeting and consideration of whether a council meeting should be closed under the provisions of Sec 90(1) or (2) of the Community Charter)
Quesnel - Inaugural Meeting of the 2018-22 Quesnel Municipal Council on Tuesday, Nov 6th at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Welcome to Lhtako Traditional Territory - Chief Clifford Lebrun
* Oaths of Office/Council Code of Conduct -- Mayor-elect Simpson; Councillors-elect Elliott, Vik, Roodenburg, Paull, Runge and Goulet
* Mayor Simpson to provide his Inaugural Address
* Council Committees and Appointments
View the full Agenda here
School District #28 - Inaugural Meeting of the 2018-22 Board of Education for School District #28 (Quesnel) on Wednesday, November 7th at 7pm in the SD28 Boardroom (401 North Star Road, Quesnel). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Williams Lake - Inaugural Meeting of the 2018-22 Williams Lake Municipal Council on Tuesday, Nov 6th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers. On the Agenda:
* Oaths of Office - Mayor-elect Cobb; Councillors-elect Brenner, Bonnell, Boehm, Nelson, Ryll, and Smith (to be conducted by the City's Corporate Officer, Cindy Bouchard)
* Inaugural Addresses
* Annual Council Meeting Schedule for 2018/2019
* Designation of Councillors as Acting Mayor - 2018/2019
* Council Appointments for 2018/2019
* Cariboo Regional District Appointments for 2018/2019 - Director and Alternate Director
* Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) Regional Advisory Board Appointments
* Downtown Business Improvement Area Renewal 2019-2023
* Proposal for an International High School / College / University in Williams Lake
View the full Agenda here
School District #27 - Inaugural Meeting of the 2018-22 Board of Education for School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) on Tuesday, November 6th at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue North, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Welcome to Secwepemc Traditional Territory - Williams Lake Indian Band Chief Willie Sellars
* Oath of Office -- Trustees-elect Martens, Forbes, Macdonald, Patenaude, Delainey, Forseille and Kohut
* Election of Officers -- Board Chair/Vice-Chair, BCSTA Provincial Council Board and Alternate Board Representative, BCPSEA Board Representative and Alternate Board Representative
* Consent Calendar
* Trustee Committee/Liaison Request and Availability
* 2018-19 Board Budget Session
* BCSTA/BCPSEA New Trustee Orientation 2019 & BCPSEA AGM -- January 23-26, 2019
* New Banking Resolution
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District - Meetings as listed below:
Inaugural Meeting of the 2018-22 Cariboo RD Board of Directors' on Thursday, November 8th at 9am in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
Inaugural Ceremony
* Welcome
* Oaths of Office
* Election of Cariboo RD Chair/Vice-Chair for 2019
Orientation Session
* Presentation by CivicLegal
* Presentation by Cariboo RD Staff
* Presentation by the newly elected CRD Chair
View the full Agenda here
Regular Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District (CCRHD) Board Meeting on Friday, November 9th at 9:30am in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:
* Receive Delegations Memorandum of Business
* Hospital Consent Calendar
* Interior Health - Capital Projects and Planning Status Report - September 2018
View the full Agenda here
Regular Cariboo RD Board Meeting on Friday, November 9th at 9:45am or immediately upon adjournment of the Nov 9th CCRHD Board Meeting whichever occurs first. On the Agenda:
* Variety of Planning Matters (Land Use Bylaws, ALR Applications, etc)
* 100 Mile Nordics Ski Society – Community Works Funding Support for a LED Lighting Project
* Treaty Advisory Committee Transition Costs (Former Area A Director Armstrong for 9 months)
* Extension of Insurance Providers Contract - Cariboo Regional District to 2020
* Results of Quesnel Regional Airport Contribution Assent Vote and 2018 General Election
* Request from 100 Mile House Director Mitch Campsall – Discussion Pertaining to the Elimination of Greyhound Bus Services
* Committee or Commission Minutes/Recommendations - for receipt/endorsement
* Appointments to Northern Development Initiative Trust Regional Advisory Committee - for 2019-22
* In-Camera Session -- Section 90(1a/c - appointment/labour) of the Community Charter
View the full Agenda here
Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Nov 6th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue). On the Agenda:
* Inaugural Addresses - Mayor Fourchalk/Councillor Dorwart
* Proposed CAO/Staff Evaluation Template
* Consideration of 2019 Grants in Aid
* Consideration of 1st,2nd and 3rd Readings to amendment to "District of Wells Payment of Remuneration and Expenses to the Members of the Wells District Council Bylaw No. 166, 2018"
* Consideration of 1st,2nd and 3rd Readings to Proposed District of Wells Officers and Delegation of Authority Bylaw No. 173, 2018
* In-Camera Session -- Section 90 (1), (a), (c), (l), (m), and (n) of the Community Charter (appointment, labour, annual report, matter under another law that the public may be excluded from a public meeting and consideration of whether a council meeting should be closed under the provisions of Sec 90(1) or (2) of the Community Charter)
Quesnel - Inaugural Meeting of the 2018-22 Quesnel Municipal Council on Tuesday, Nov 6th at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Welcome to Lhtako Traditional Territory - Chief Clifford Lebrun
* Oaths of Office/Council Code of Conduct -- Mayor-elect Simpson; Councillors-elect Elliott, Vik, Roodenburg, Paull, Runge and Goulet
* Mayor Simpson to provide his Inaugural Address
* Council Committees and Appointments
View the full Agenda here
School District #28 - Inaugural Meeting of the 2018-22 Board of Education for School District #28 (Quesnel) on Wednesday, November 7th at 7pm in the SD28 Boardroom (401 North Star Road, Quesnel). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Williams Lake - Inaugural Meeting of the 2018-22 Williams Lake Municipal Council on Tuesday, Nov 6th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers. On the Agenda:
* Oaths of Office - Mayor-elect Cobb; Councillors-elect Brenner, Bonnell, Boehm, Nelson, Ryll, and Smith (to be conducted by the City's Corporate Officer, Cindy Bouchard)
* Inaugural Addresses
* Annual Council Meeting Schedule for 2018/2019
* Designation of Councillors as Acting Mayor - 2018/2019
* Council Appointments for 2018/2019
* Cariboo Regional District Appointments for 2018/2019 - Director and Alternate Director
* Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) Regional Advisory Board Appointments
* Downtown Business Improvement Area Renewal 2019-2023
* Proposal for an International High School / College / University in Williams Lake
View the full Agenda here
School District #27 - Inaugural Meeting of the 2018-22 Board of Education for School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) on Tuesday, November 6th at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue North, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Welcome to Secwepemc Traditional Territory - Williams Lake Indian Band Chief Willie Sellars
* Oath of Office -- Trustees-elect Martens, Forbes, Macdonald, Patenaude, Delainey, Forseille and Kohut
* Election of Officers -- Board Chair/Vice-Chair, BCSTA Provincial Council Board and Alternate Board Representative, BCPSEA Board Representative and Alternate Board Representative
* Consent Calendar
* Trustee Committee/Liaison Request and Availability
* 2018-19 Board Budget Session
* BCSTA/BCPSEA New Trustee Orientation 2019 & BCPSEA AGM -- January 23-26, 2019
* New Banking Resolution
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District - Meetings as listed below:
Inaugural Meeting of the 2018-22 Cariboo RD Board of Directors' on Thursday, November 8th at 9am in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
Inaugural Ceremony
* Welcome
* Oaths of Office
* Election of Cariboo RD Chair/Vice-Chair for 2019
Orientation Session
* Presentation by CivicLegal
* Presentation by Cariboo RD Staff
* Presentation by the newly elected CRD Chair
View the full Agenda here
Regular Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District (CCRHD) Board Meeting on Friday, November 9th at 9:30am in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:
* Receive Delegations Memorandum of Business
* Hospital Consent Calendar
* Interior Health - Capital Projects and Planning Status Report - September 2018
View the full Agenda here
Regular Cariboo RD Board Meeting on Friday, November 9th at 9:45am or immediately upon adjournment of the Nov 9th CCRHD Board Meeting whichever occurs first. On the Agenda:
* Variety of Planning Matters (Land Use Bylaws, ALR Applications, etc)
* 100 Mile Nordics Ski Society – Community Works Funding Support for a LED Lighting Project
* Treaty Advisory Committee Transition Costs (Former Area A Director Armstrong for 9 months)
* Extension of Insurance Providers Contract - Cariboo Regional District to 2020
* Results of Quesnel Regional Airport Contribution Assent Vote and 2018 General Election
* Request from 100 Mile House Director Mitch Campsall – Discussion Pertaining to the Elimination of Greyhound Bus Services
* Committee or Commission Minutes/Recommendations - for receipt/endorsement
* Appointments to Northern Development Initiative Trust Regional Advisory Committee - for 2019-22
* In-Camera Session -- Section 90(1a/c - appointment/labour) of the Community Charter
View the full Agenda here
Thursday, November 1, 2018
Special Central Cariboo Joint Committee Highlights - Nov 1st mtg
Present from CRD - Directors S. Forseth/A. Delainey and Committee Co-Chair J. Sorley
Present from City of WL - Committee Co-Chair/Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors I. Bonnell, S. Nelson, J. Ryll, C. Smith, and S. Zacharias
Meeting called to order by Committee Co-Chair W.Cobb at 5:30pm
Meeting Agenda Adopted
Business:
1) Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex - City DVP Application Referral (Prov Gov't Cannabis Store - 850 Oliver Street)
The Committee had before it a memorandum from the City's Director of Development Services L. Hartley
Discussion ensued thereon...
Resolved - Memorandum received
2) Central Cariboo Arts and Culture 2019 Business and Financial Plans
The Committee had before it a memorandum from the CRD's Manager of Community Services
Discussion ensued thereon...
Resolved - Memorandum received/Central Cariboo Arts and Culture 2019 Business and Financial Plans be endorsed, as presented
3) Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services 2019 Business, Financial and Capital Plans
The Committee had before it a memorandum from the CRD's Manager of Community Services
Discussion ensued thereon...
Resolved - That an allocation of $2,500 to support fireworks programming in CRD Areas D, E, F be included in the 2019 Central Cariboo Recreation Business/Financial Plans
Resolved - Memorandum received/Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services 2019 Business, Financial and Capital Plans be endorsed, as amended
The Committee adjourned at 6:24pm
Present from City of WL - Committee Co-Chair/Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors I. Bonnell, S. Nelson, J. Ryll, C. Smith, and S. Zacharias
Meeting called to order by Committee Co-Chair W.Cobb at 5:30pm
Meeting Agenda Adopted
Business:
1) Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex - City DVP Application Referral (Prov Gov't Cannabis Store - 850 Oliver Street)
The Committee had before it a memorandum from the City's Director of Development Services L. Hartley
Discussion ensued thereon...
Resolved - Memorandum received
2) Central Cariboo Arts and Culture 2019 Business and Financial Plans
The Committee had before it a memorandum from the CRD's Manager of Community Services
Discussion ensued thereon...
Resolved - Memorandum received/Central Cariboo Arts and Culture 2019 Business and Financial Plans be endorsed, as presented
3) Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services 2019 Business, Financial and Capital Plans
The Committee had before it a memorandum from the CRD's Manager of Community Services
Discussion ensued thereon...
Resolved - That an allocation of $2,500 to support fireworks programming in CRD Areas D, E, F be included in the 2019 Central Cariboo Recreation Business/Financial Plans
Resolved - Memorandum received/Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services 2019 Business, Financial and Capital Plans be endorsed, as amended
The Committee adjourned at 6:24pm
Final Public Engagement Report - Rural Development in BC Strategy
At the January 2018 #UBCM Electoral Area Director's Forum -- the Province presented to EA Directors' around a BC Rural Development Strategy - you can view the presentation at
https://www.ubcm.ca/assets/Events/EAD~2018/Rural%20Development%20Strategy.pdf
Consequently, the Province of BC led public engagement sessions throughout BC on this topic.
Today - the Province published its final report on a Rural Development Strategy which you can read at
https://engage.gov.bc.ca/app/uploads/sites/322/2018/10/What-We-Heard-Report_FINAL.pdf
~SF
https://www.ubcm.ca/assets/Events/EAD~2018/Rural%20Development%20Strategy.pdf
Consequently, the Province of BC led public engagement sessions throughout BC on this topic.
Today - the Province published its final report on a Rural Development Strategy which you can read at
https://engage.gov.bc.ca/app/uploads/sites/322/2018/10/What-We-Heard-Report_FINAL.pdf
~SF
New Recycle BC depot opens Dec. 1 in Quesnel
Joint Release of the City of Quesnel/Cariboo Regional District:
A new Recycle BC depot opens in Quesnel on Dec. 1, 2018 in response to changes in the global recycling market. The new recycling depot, located near the Quesnel landfill, will be a controlled site with an attendant and residents will be able to recycle a broader range of packaging and paper recyclables.
The new site opens as the current recycling drop-off depots close at West Park Mall, Maple Park Mall, Sani-loop and the Quesnel landfill. Despite the City’s education campaigns regarding contamination in the depot recycling material, the recyclables from these locations continue to be contaminated and are non-marketable in the current global recycling market.
In January 2018, China reduced the level of contamination they accept with recyclables. China will only import the cleanest recyclable material, which makes marketing the contaminated paper and plastic recyclable materials from Quesnel’s current depots extremely challenging and costly.
Recycle BC is still able to market their recyclables due to strict rules, such as requiring attended depots, which produces a cleaner product. By establishing a full Recycle BC depot, the City and Cariboo Regional District recycling programs in Quesnel will be able to continue.
The Recycle BC depot will be located near the Quesnel landfill on Carson Pit Road, beside the re-use centre. It will be open the same hours as the landfill: Tuesday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
There will be no changes to existing curbside collection for City residents. Quesnel residents who receive curbside collection can continue to use their blue boxes to recycle packaging and papers. Plastic bags, film, other flexible plastic packaging, glass and Styrofoam can be recycled at the new Recycle BC depot and should not be placed in curbside recycling bins.
For more information, please email talktrash@cariboord.ca or cityhall@quesnel.ca. Read a full Frequently Asked Questions document on the CRD or City websites.
Find a list of acceptable recycling materials at recyclebc.ca/what-can-i-recycle or pick up a recycling guide at the new depot location.
Wednesday, October 31, 2018
Steve's Meeting/Expense Calendar - October 2018
During the month of October 2018 - I attended the following meetings or events:
October 2nd -- all day Public Liaison Committee meeting at Mt Polley
October 3rd - Met with Ministry of Transportation Cariboo District Manager Todd Hubner then attended the October monthly meeting of the McLeese Lake Recreation Society
October 12th - CCRHD/CRD Board Meetings
October 16th - FLNRORD Community Breakfast in Quesnel
October 19th - Attended Breast Cancer fundraiser at Oasis Pub in McLeese Lake
October 20th - Attended the 2018 AGM of the Wildwood Community Association
October 24th - Met with CRD CAO J. MacLean to discuss Area D business
October 25th - WL Chamber of Commerce Meeting/Observed meeting of the McLeese Lake Volunteer Fire Department Society
In the month of October 2018 -- I submitted the following expenses for approval:
Oct 12th - $185 for CCRHD/CRD Board Meetings
Oct 16th - $118.80 for mileage from WL-Quesnel and return to attend the FLNRORD Community Breakfast in Quesnel
~SF
October 2nd -- all day Public Liaison Committee meeting at Mt Polley
October 3rd - Met with Ministry of Transportation Cariboo District Manager Todd Hubner then attended the October monthly meeting of the McLeese Lake Recreation Society
October 12th - CCRHD/CRD Board Meetings
October 16th - FLNRORD Community Breakfast in Quesnel
October 19th - Attended Breast Cancer fundraiser at Oasis Pub in McLeese Lake
October 20th - Attended the 2018 AGM of the Wildwood Community Association
October 24th - Met with CRD CAO J. MacLean to discuss Area D business
October 25th - WL Chamber of Commerce Meeting/Observed meeting of the McLeese Lake Volunteer Fire Department Society
In the month of October 2018 -- I submitted the following expenses for approval:
Oct 12th - $185 for CCRHD/CRD Board Meetings
Oct 16th - $118.80 for mileage from WL-Quesnel and return to attend the FLNRORD Community Breakfast in Quesnel
~SF
BC Government takes action on Abbott/Chapman report
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
The Province has released its action plan in response to the government-commissioned, independent Abbott/Chapman report on the unprecedented 2017 wildfire and flood seasons in British Columbia.
The plan outlines actions taken and underway, and identifies next steps to address the report’s 108 recommendations. It also considers recommendations from other recent reports, such as the auditor general’s report, Managing Climate Change Risks, and the federal House of Commons June 2018 report, From the Ashes: Reimagining Fire Safety and Emergency Management in Indigenous Communities.
Key actions underway include:
- Building on partnerships with Indigenous and local communities to improve emergency preparedness and build local capacity and resources for disaster readiness, response and recovery. This includes expanding FireSmart funding and resources under the new $50-million Community Resiliency Investment Program and supporting community-led emergency planning.
- Incorporating local and traditional Indigenous knowledge into emergency management practices, including ensuring that community wildfire protection plans and forest fuel management plans consider traditional land uses and knowledge.
- Improving response and recovery integration, tools and resources across provincial agencies. This includes using technology to assess wildfire and flood impacts and starting development of a new provincial disaster recovery framework to adopt a more integrated, co-ordinated cross-ministry approach to recovery, while recognizing the important roles of First Nations partners and a variety of stakeholders.
- Improving public information and outreach to Indigenous governments and communities and local stakeholders. This includes engaging with First Nations at regional partnership tables, supporting local and Indigenous communities in preparing community recovery plans, and building awareness of the mental-health impacts of wildfire and the resources available for British Columbians.
The Province continues to work to address the impacts of the 2017 and 2018 wildfires and floods and assist in the recovery of affected communities. The action plan supports the development of comprehensive integrated policy, programs and protocols to manage all phases of disaster from prevention and preparedness through response and recovery, now and in the future. The goal is to reduce disaster risk and increase community resiliency in B.C.
Progress updates on the action plan will be released biannually over the next two years. An update is scheduled to be issued April 30, 2019.
Quick Facts:
- On Dec. 4, 2017, the B.C. government launched an independent review of the response to the 2017 wildfire and flooding seasons. The review was led by George Abbott and Maureen Chapman, Hereditary Chief of Skawahlook First Nation. Their report, Addressing the New Normal: 21st Century Disaster Management in B.C., which includes 108 recommendations related to disaster management, was released in May 2018.
- In 2018, more than 1.3 million hectares burned during the wildfire season – the largest number on record – forcing thousands of B.C. residents from their homes. A provincial state of emergency was in place from Aug. 15 to Sept. 7. The total estimated cost of 2018 wildfire and flood response is more than $400 million.
- In 2017, 1.2 million hectares burned, displacing more than 65,000 residents during the longest state of emergency in B.C.'s history. The total cost of wildfire and flood response in 2017 was close to $650 million. Before the 2017 wildfire season, the most-recent declared state of emergency was issued in August 2003 in response to wildfires.
Learn More:
To read the action plan and the Abbott/Chapman report, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/emergency-management-bc
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/emergency-management-bc
For information on wildfire prevention, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/FireSmart
For information on how to prepare for an emergency, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/PreparedBC
NStQ/B.C. advance reconciliation with government-to-government agreement
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
A new government-to-government agreement between the Northern Secwepemc te Qelmucw (NStQ) and the provincial government will help build healthy and prosperous First Nations communities, benefiting people in the Cariboo region.
The NStQ and B.C. have committed to collaborate on new approaches to land and resource management, and economic development in the NStQ First Nations’ territories through the Yecweminul’ecw Agreement, which means “Take care of the land” in Secwepemctsín.
The agreement provides for a more efficient process for consultation with NStQ First Nations on natural resource approvals, and for regular meetings between B.C. and the NStQ to discuss topics of mutual interest.
NStQ and the Province will also collaborate to develop positive working relationships with other levels of government, including the federal government, local governments and First Nations, as well as industry, ranchers and other stakeholders.
NStQ First Nations and the federal and provincial governments signed a treaty Agreement-in-Principle on July 22, 2018, and have advanced to the final stage of treaty negotiations. The government-to-government agreement is the first step of a commitment within the Agreement-in-Principle to negotiate co-operative approaches to land and resource decision-making on Crown land in NStQ territories, prior to completing a final treaty.
The provincial government is committed to developing relationships with NStQ First Nations, and all Indigenous peoples, based on respect and recognition, and guided by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and case law.
Quotes:
Chief Patrick Harry, Stswcem’c-Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek-Dog Creek) –
“Our people have lived in poverty and watched from the sidelines while other governments and corporations have reaped benefits from our lands. This agreement is a good first step toward remedying that injustice. We commend the province for taking it. And we look forward to shared management and shared benefits from the lands we have occupied for millennia.”
Acting Chief Sheri Sellars, Xat’sūll First Nation (Soda Creek) –
“Xat’sūll is pleased to finally have this agreement with the Province. Our territory, Secwepemculecw, is vitally important to our current members and our future generations. This agreement will provide us with tools to enhance NStQ’s collective stewardship efforts and serve as a foundation for an even stronger role in the future.”
Chief Willie Sellars, T’exelc First Nation (Williams Lake) –
“It’s time for change. It’s time to work together toward reconciliation and revitalization, for our people and for the region that will benefit from our stewardship and innovation. While the negotiation on the government-to-government agreement has been difficult, and although Williams Lake Indian Band recognizes we do not have a perfect agreement, we can utilize this agreement as a starting point for the NStQ on resource talks with government. We look forward to working in partnership with the B.C. government to ensure a thriving Cariboo region and thriving Northern Secwepemc people in future.”
Chief Helen Henderson, Tsq’escen’ First Nation (Canim Lake) –
“The way in which government recognizes and acknowledges the inherent rights of First Nations is changing. I would like to commend the Province of B.C. in making the effort to begin that process of strong government-to-government relationships. Through the Yecweminul'ecw Agreement we hope to have serious discussions on the stewardship and economic development of our lands leading to further steps in recognition and reconciliation.”
Scott Fraser, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation –
“First Nations should have a strong voice in the stewardship of land and resources in their territories. Our agreement creates a new foundation for more powerful partnerships with the NStQ First Nations and advances our ongoing treaty negotiations to explore how we manage land and resources together. We are moving forward together as partners and governments to make life better and improve economic opportunities for NStQ members, to the benefit of everyone in the Cariboo.”
Quick Facts:
- NStQ represents Tsq’escen’ First Nation (Canim Lake), Stswecem’c-Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek-Dog Creek), Xat’sūll First Nation (Soda Creek) and T’exelc First Nation (Williams Lake).
- The NStQ First Nations have more than 2,600 members, and are located in the Cariboo region of British Columbia.
- Chief Patrick Harry, Stswecem’c-Xgat’tem First Nation; Chief Willie Sellars, T’exelc First Nation; Chief Helen Henderson, Tsq’escen’ First Nation; Acting Chief Sheri Sellars, Xat’sūll First Nation; and Scott Fraser, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, are signatories to the government-to-government agreement.
- The agreement provides $1.35 million over three years to the NStQ First Nations to support their ability to participate in the agreement.
Learn More:
- NStQ government-to-government agreement: ow.ly/j2Xk30kMUEk
- NStQ Treaty Group: nstqtreaty.ca
- Tsq’escen’ First Nation (Canim Lake): canimlakeband.com
- Stswecem’c-Xgat’tem First Nation (Canoe Creek-Dog Creek): canoecreekband.ca
- Xat’sūll First Nation (Soda Creek): xatsull.com
- T’exelc First Nation (Williams Lake): williamslakeband.ca
Highway 97 construction area near Williams Lake shutting down for winter
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
Construction on Highway 97 from Williams Lake Indian Reserve No. 1 to Lexington Road will soon be concluding for the season, resulting in a speed limit increase from the current 50 km/h construction zone to 70 km/h.
Through November 2018, crews will be preparing the project for winter shutdown as cooler temperatures do not allow for completion of the remaining work.
The first layer of asphalt paving for this four-laning project was recently completed, but the remaining paving, or “top lift”, cannot take place until warmer temperatures return late next spring.
Two paved lanes will remain open throughout the project area this fall and winter. Although drivers may see four paved lanes, not all of the safety elements are completed to allow these additional lanes to be used at this time.
The remaining four to six weeks of work required to complete the project will begin late next spring, once seasonal load restrictions are removed from the side roads supporting the project. Work will include paving completion, installation of additional guardrails and signage, as well as grass seeding and landscaping.
People’s patience is appreciated while this work is carried out. Drivers are reminded that even though work will soon be halting for the season, they should obey the posted speed and use caution while travelling through the work area.
Learn More:
For more information on this project, which includes 6.2 kilometres of highway widening to four lanes and several intersection improvements, visit:
Cariboo RD Area 'D' 2014-18 Term End Report
I have written my End of Term Report covering my 1st term as the Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area 'D' Director. You can read it at
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1SrBKhIlxaIkq1KAJ4Fyi8VaJDIsRI4fM
~SF
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1SrBKhIlxaIkq1KAJ4Fyi8VaJDIsRI4fM
~SF
Tuesday, October 30, 2018
WL Council Highlights - October 30th meeting
Present: Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors I. Bonnell, S. Nelson, J. Ryll, C. Smith and S. Zacharias
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Meeting Agenda adopted/Minutes of the WL City Council meeting held on October 9th, 2018 be received/adopted
Business:
1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and Electronic Funds Transfer listings dated October 11, 17, 18, 19, 2018
2) Council agreed to support an application to the CEPF Evacuation Route Planning Program and, if the grant application is approved, support Evacuation Route and Re-Entry Planning as a strategic priority within the 2019 Development Services and Protective Services work programs.
3) Council approved the award of Contract for the Tourism Discovery Center renovations to Sprucelee Construction Ltd. in the amount of $217,805 plus taxes.
4) Council authorized submission of a grant application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) Façade Improvement Program and, if approved, direct Staff to implement the program based on the attached program guides and application as contained in the Staff report dated October 15th, 2018.
Councillor S. Nelson declared a conflict of interest on the next item at 6:05pm and left Council Chambers
5) Council awarded the Insurance Broker services contract to HUB International at a cost of $15,000 annually for a three (3) year term, with an option to extend an additional two (2) years
Councillor S. Nelson returned at Council Chambers at 6:06pm
6) Council received the report of the Chief Election Officer dated October 25, 2018 providing the results of the 2018 City of Williams Lake Local Government Election
7) Council received DVP application #06-2018 - R. Brink Enterprises - Height Variance for Proposed Garage - 1277 South Lakeside Drive and directed Staff to issue notice of the application to property owners and tenants within 100 m of the subject property advising of the time and date when the matter will be considered by Council
8) Council reconsidered/adopted Development Cost Charge Reserve Funds Expenditure Bylaw No. 2295
9) Council approved the 2018 Annual Memory Tree Celebration on Sunday, December 2, 2018 from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM at City Hall
10) Council agreed to provide a letter of support for Williams Lake Hospice Society's funding application to BC Gaming
11) Council agreed to the following in regards to 2018 Remembrance Day Ceremonies & Poppy Sales:
a) approve the Poppy Campaign sale days from October 27, 2018 to November 11, 2018;
b) encourage the community to attend the Remembrance Day ceremonies at the Gibralter Room on November 11, 2018;
c) approve the parade route on November 11, 2018 as indicated, and Staff coordinate the placement of barricades as requested;
d) approve the use of the City Hall lobby for accumulation of wreaths and crosses before and after the service parade; and further,
e) authorize the Legion Flag to be displayed on the City's flag pole for the week of November 3 through 11, 2018.
12) Council received a letter from the Hon. Scott Fraser - Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation in regards to Dasiqox Tribal Park and that the letter be responded to by requesting that the proponent (TNG) be required to consult with all affected parties in the region to assess the economic and social impacts of the proposed Dasiqox Tribal Park
13) Council agreed to provide approval for the Winter Lights Parade on December 1, 2018 being organized by Williams Lake Business Improvement Association (WLBIA)
14) Late Item #1 -- Council agreed to support an application to the Age-Friendly Communities Program and, if the $15,000 grant application is approved, add Accessibility and Age-Friendly design expertise to the scope of the proposed Waterfront Recreation Concept Planning program and budget
15) Late Item #2 -- Council endorsed the Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce' application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) Marketing Initiatives Fund for up to $10,000 toward their Williams Lake and District Marketing Refresh Initiative.
16) Council Information Package, as of October 30th, 2018 was received as follows:
* Cariboo Regional District Board Highlights October 12, 2018
Councillor S. Zacharias provided a Farewell Address and following the address, received a standing ovation
Councillors Bonnell, Nelson, Ryll, Smith and Mayor W. Cobb plus the CAO provided oral reports on their recent activities
Media Question Period -- 2019 Age Friendly Grant Application
Council adjourned at 6:52pm
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Meeting Agenda adopted/Minutes of the WL City Council meeting held on October 9th, 2018 be received/adopted
Business:
1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and Electronic Funds Transfer listings dated October 11, 17, 18, 19, 2018
2) Council agreed to support an application to the CEPF Evacuation Route Planning Program and, if the grant application is approved, support Evacuation Route and Re-Entry Planning as a strategic priority within the 2019 Development Services and Protective Services work programs.
3) Council approved the award of Contract for the Tourism Discovery Center renovations to Sprucelee Construction Ltd. in the amount of $217,805 plus taxes.
4) Council authorized submission of a grant application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) Façade Improvement Program and, if approved, direct Staff to implement the program based on the attached program guides and application as contained in the Staff report dated October 15th, 2018.
Councillor S. Nelson declared a conflict of interest on the next item at 6:05pm and left Council Chambers
5) Council awarded the Insurance Broker services contract to HUB International at a cost of $15,000 annually for a three (3) year term, with an option to extend an additional two (2) years
Councillor S. Nelson returned at Council Chambers at 6:06pm
6) Council received the report of the Chief Election Officer dated October 25, 2018 providing the results of the 2018 City of Williams Lake Local Government Election
7) Council received DVP application #06-2018 - R. Brink Enterprises - Height Variance for Proposed Garage - 1277 South Lakeside Drive and directed Staff to issue notice of the application to property owners and tenants within 100 m of the subject property advising of the time and date when the matter will be considered by Council
8) Council reconsidered/adopted Development Cost Charge Reserve Funds Expenditure Bylaw No. 2295
9) Council approved the 2018 Annual Memory Tree Celebration on Sunday, December 2, 2018 from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM at City Hall
10) Council agreed to provide a letter of support for Williams Lake Hospice Society's funding application to BC Gaming
11) Council agreed to the following in regards to 2018 Remembrance Day Ceremonies & Poppy Sales:
a) approve the Poppy Campaign sale days from October 27, 2018 to November 11, 2018;
b) encourage the community to attend the Remembrance Day ceremonies at the Gibralter Room on November 11, 2018;
c) approve the parade route on November 11, 2018 as indicated, and Staff coordinate the placement of barricades as requested;
d) approve the use of the City Hall lobby for accumulation of wreaths and crosses before and after the service parade; and further,
e) authorize the Legion Flag to be displayed on the City's flag pole for the week of November 3 through 11, 2018.
12) Council received a letter from the Hon. Scott Fraser - Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation in regards to Dasiqox Tribal Park and that the letter be responded to by requesting that the proponent (TNG) be required to consult with all affected parties in the region to assess the economic and social impacts of the proposed Dasiqox Tribal Park
13) Council agreed to provide approval for the Winter Lights Parade on December 1, 2018 being organized by Williams Lake Business Improvement Association (WLBIA)
14) Late Item #1 -- Council agreed to support an application to the Age-Friendly Communities Program and, if the $15,000 grant application is approved, add Accessibility and Age-Friendly design expertise to the scope of the proposed Waterfront Recreation Concept Planning program and budget
15) Late Item #2 -- Council endorsed the Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce' application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) Marketing Initiatives Fund for up to $10,000 toward their Williams Lake and District Marketing Refresh Initiative.
16) Council Information Package, as of October 30th, 2018 was received as follows:
* Cariboo Regional District Board Highlights October 12, 2018
Councillor S. Zacharias provided a Farewell Address and following the address, received a standing ovation
Councillors Bonnell, Nelson, Ryll, Smith and Mayor W. Cobb plus the CAO provided oral reports on their recent activities
Media Question Period -- 2019 Age Friendly Grant Application
Council adjourned at 6:52pm
Monday, October 29, 2018
Fire Mitigation Project -- Williams Lake and Area
Looking for assistance to FireSmart your property as a result of the 2017/2018 Wildfires? United Way (Thompson-Nicola-Cariboo), in partnership with the Governments of British Columbia/Canada, have established the "Fire Mitigation Project". Full details at:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1r78rmQYDIZfhgfhE2hGEZ2YFwFgGQdyq
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1r78rmQYDIZfhgfhE2hGEZ2YFwFgGQdyq
2019 LGLA EOS Sessions
The Local Government Leadership Academy or LGLA announced that registration is open for the 2019 round of Elected or Returning Elected Official Seminars for the 5 UBCM Area Associations plus a session for Electoral Area Directors
For full details - click here
As someone who believes in "life long learning" while in local government and a 2016 recipient of LGLA's Level 1 Certificate in Local Government Leadership (and I'm hoping to apply for and receive LGLA's Level 2 Advanced Certificate in Local Government Leadership in 2019) - I urge everyone in local government, whether elected for the 1st time or returning elected to attend this session - the networking opportunities for newly or returning elected to network with their peers is invaluable and the learning sessions always generates something new to be learned....
~SF
For full details - click here
As someone who believes in "life long learning" while in local government and a 2016 recipient of LGLA's Level 1 Certificate in Local Government Leadership (and I'm hoping to apply for and receive LGLA's Level 2 Advanced Certificate in Local Government Leadership in 2019) - I urge everyone in local government, whether elected for the 1st time or returning elected to attend this session - the networking opportunities for newly or returning elected to network with their peers is invaluable and the learning sessions always generates something new to be learned....
~SF
It's Not You, It's the Title!
Former Saanich Mayor and Ag Land Commission Chair and now local government consultant Frank Leonard, writes on how people who are elected are being invited to events becomes of their elected office and NOT because of the individual holding the said elected office .... A good read!
Click here
~SF
Click here
~SF
Friday, October 26, 2018
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Oct 29th - Nov 2nd
Local Governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin are meeting next week, as follows:
Wells - Special Meeting of Council on Tuesday, October 30th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue). On the Agenda:
* 2019 Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 171, 2018 (Adoption)
* 2018 Oath of Office Ceremony -- Mayor-elect Gabe Fourchalk and Councillors-elect Mandy Kilsby, Ksenya Dorwart, Chris Cooley and Jordan Rohatynski
* Select Committee or Other Appointments:
a) Economic Development and Tourism Committee and Education, Health and Housing Committee - Councillors Ksenya Dorwart and Jordan Rohatynski
b) Planning, Zoning and Heritage Committee - Councillor Mandy Kilsby
c) Emergency Management Committee - Councillor Chris Cooley
d) Wells CRD Director - Mayor Gabe Fourchalk
* 2018/2019 Acting Mayor Schedule
* Appointment of signing authority for the District of Wells
View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Regular and Final Meeting of the 2014-2018 Williams Lake City Council on Tuesday, October 30th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart Street). On the Agenda:
* 2019 Evacuation Route Planning Grant Application including into CRD Areas D/F (Soda Creek/Chimney Lake)
* Tourism Discovery Center Renovations Request for Quote Award
* 2019 NDIT Façade Program Grant Application
* Insurance Broker Request for Proposals
* DVP #06-2018 - R. Brink Enterprises - Height Variance for Proposed Garage - 1277 South Lakeside Drive
* Letter from BC's Minister of Indigenous Relations re: Dasiqox Tribal Park
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District - Central Cariboo Joint Committee on Thursday, November 1st at 5:30pm in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex - City DVP Application Referral for Discussion and Comments
* Central Cariboo Arts and Culture 2019 Business and Financial Plans
* Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services 2019 Business, Financial and Capital Plans
View the full Agenda here
Quesnel/Williams Lake/100 Mile House/SD28/SD27 and the Cariboo Regional District Board will all hold their Inaugural Meetings (Swearing In of Elected Officials, etc) during the week of November 5-9
~SF
Wells - Special Meeting of Council on Tuesday, October 30th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue). On the Agenda:
* 2019 Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw No. 171, 2018 (Adoption)
* 2018 Oath of Office Ceremony -- Mayor-elect Gabe Fourchalk and Councillors-elect Mandy Kilsby, Ksenya Dorwart, Chris Cooley and Jordan Rohatynski
* Select Committee or Other Appointments:
a) Economic Development and Tourism Committee and Education, Health and Housing Committee - Councillors Ksenya Dorwart and Jordan Rohatynski
b) Planning, Zoning and Heritage Committee - Councillor Mandy Kilsby
c) Emergency Management Committee - Councillor Chris Cooley
d) Wells CRD Director - Mayor Gabe Fourchalk
* 2018/2019 Acting Mayor Schedule
* Appointment of signing authority for the District of Wells
View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Regular and Final Meeting of the 2014-2018 Williams Lake City Council on Tuesday, October 30th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart Street). On the Agenda:
* 2019 Evacuation Route Planning Grant Application including into CRD Areas D/F (Soda Creek/Chimney Lake)
* Tourism Discovery Center Renovations Request for Quote Award
* 2019 NDIT Façade Program Grant Application
* Insurance Broker Request for Proposals
* DVP #06-2018 - R. Brink Enterprises - Height Variance for Proposed Garage - 1277 South Lakeside Drive
* Letter from BC's Minister of Indigenous Relations re: Dasiqox Tribal Park
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District - Central Cariboo Joint Committee on Thursday, November 1st at 5:30pm in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex - City DVP Application Referral for Discussion and Comments
* Central Cariboo Arts and Culture 2019 Business and Financial Plans
* Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services 2019 Business, Financial and Capital Plans
View the full Agenda here
Quesnel/Williams Lake/100 Mile House/SD28/SD27 and the Cariboo Regional District Board will all hold their Inaugural Meetings (Swearing In of Elected Officials, etc) during the week of November 5-9
~SF
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