Present: Mayor Cook with Councillors' Rathor, Montoya, Walters, Bourdon and Zacharias
Absent: Councillor Tom Barr
Staff Present:
B. Carruthers - CAO
D. Lazzarin - GM of Corporate Services
T. Chung - Manager of IT
C. Bouchard - A/Corporate Officer
Meeting called to order at 7:33pm
Minutes of January 12th, 2010 Council Meeting approved
Delegations/Presentations:
1) Mayor Cook presented Grant Martin with a Certificate of Recognition in respect of his years’ of service as the RCMP Detachment Commander – City of Williams Lake.
Business:
1) Council authorized the scheduling of a Public Consultation Meeting on Wednesday, February 10th, 2010 at 7:00pm in Council Chambers, in regards to an OCP Amendment Application from Andrew Roe – Townhouse Complex – 1526, 1530, 1534 Broadway Avenue South
Mayor Cook declared a conflict of interest on the next item, as she is a resident of Woodland Drive. Acting Mayor Geoff Bourdon took the Chair
2) Council authorized the scheduling of a Public Open House on Thursday, February 4th, 2010 from 2pm to 7pm in Council Chambers to consult with Woodland Drive residents’ around extending Water/Sewer services to Woodland Drive
Mayor Cook returned to Council Chambers and resumed the Chair
3) Committee of the Whole Recommendations:
• Council declared redundant the Policies identified by the Director of Corporate Services and Staff was asked to review and update the remaining policies to reflect current processes & practices and bring them forward to Council for approval
• The 2010-2014 Financial Plan Schedule was received for information
• Council approved the Fire Boundary Phase 2 Expansion Agreement between the City of Williams Lake and the Cariboo Regional District and the Mayor and Corporate Officer was authorized to sign the Agreement on behalf of the City
• Council endorsed the recommendation from the Water Advisory Committee and approved amending the Terms of Reference to allow for an increase from 6 to 7 members; and further, Dan Colgate was appointed as a member of the Committee
• Council authorized Staff to discuss with the Community Arts Council a strategy to reimburse the City for outstanding rent and report back to Council; and further, approval was given for occupancy of studio space in the old Fire Hall for the Spinners/Weavers, Potter's Guild and Artists Society and office space for the Community Arts Council at a rental rate to be negotiated and approved by Council.
• Council referred to the 2010 Budget Process - $20,000 purchase for a tandem axel car trailer and construction of a new permanent City parade float
4) Council received a letter from Province of BC Environmental Assessment Office regarding a Environmental Assessment Certificate for the Prosperity Mine Project, issued by the Provincial Government
5) Council agreed to provide a letter of support for Shaw TV to the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC)
6) Council agreed to write a letter to Shaw requesting an update from Shaw’s Regional Programming Manager on:
• Analog to Digital Equipment
• Editing Equipment
• Local Programming Coordinator
7) Council received a letter from FCM regarding a call for municipal solidarity with Haitian communities and earthquake relief efforts be received and the community was encouraged to become involved
8) Council authorized the BC Indoor Rodeo Association’s $2,000 2010 Grant-in-Aid to be paid early, in accordance with Grant-in-Aid Policy No. 18
9) 2 Proclamations were issued by Council:
• Kidney Health Month – March 2010
• Family Literacy Week – January 25-31, 2010
Information/Announcements by Council Members:
Council members made announcements about issues/events on going in Williams Lake
• Olympic Torch Relay event on Thursday
• Cindy Bouchard’s promotion as the City’s Manager of Legislative Services
• Darcy Lazzarin’s retirement as the City’s General Manager of Corporate Services
Adjournment:
The meeting adjourned at 8:40pm
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Mackenzie Avenue Rehab Loan Authorization Bylaw 2108, 2009 - AAP Process
As you are all aware, today starts the 30 day AAP (Alternate Approval Process) Process or Counter-Petition opportunity to oppose WL Council's desire to borrow up to $3.5 million to repair Mackenzie Avenue. The last day to register your opposition to Council adopting Bylaw #2109, 2009 is Monday, February 22nd, 2010 at 4:00pm at Williams Lake City Hall
Earlier today, I submitted my AAP Process form opposing WL Council's desire to borrow up to $3.5 million to repair Mackenzie Avenue. Previous to this, I did inform WL City Councillors' Surinder Rathor and Geoff Bourdon of my reasons to oppose Bylaw #2109, 2009 and now I wish to share them with you:
Reason #1
At present, there is no plan as to how the City intends to proceed with the repair of Mackenzie Avenue except for a general statement on this project and that is unacceptable. I feel that if the City placed a high priority on this project, it should have held a "Town Hall" meeting on this project and answered any/all questions of the public prior to it proceeding with the formal request for permission to borrow up to $3.5 million for Mackenzie Avenue.
Reason #2
WL City Council has decided to use the AAP Process or Counter-Petition opportunity to gauge public support or opposition to borrowing money to repair Mackenzie Avenue. Given that Council is seeking permission to borrow up to $3.5 million, a binding referendum should have occurred and furthermore, the cost of the referendum could have been included in the budget for the Mackenzie Avenue Rehab Project
Reason #3
Mayor Cook, while campaigning last fall for the Mayor's Office, criticized the then Council for how it handled the borrowing of $6.5 million for the new Fire Hall (and yes, I voted against that borrowing bylaw as well) and yet, she and her Council are using the same process as the last Council used to borrow money for the new Fire Hall. If one is going to criticize sitting politicians, at least criticize, come up with your own solutions and then implement them. In my opinion, Mayor Cook's actions on this file completely make her a hypocrite
Again - if you are opposed to Council borrowing up to $3.5 million for the repair of the entire length of Mackenzie Avenue, you have until Monday, Feb 22nd/2010 to register your opposition. If you want more information, see the City's website at http://www.williamslake.ca/ or contact the Mayor and Council. Their contact information is as follows:
Mayor Kerry Cook - mayor@williamslake.ca
Councillor Surinder Rathor - srathor@williamslake.ca
Councillor Natalie Montoya - nmontoya@williamslake.ca
Councillor Tom Barr - tbarr@williamslake.ca
Councillor Laurie Walters - lwalters@williamslake.ca
Councillor Geoff Bourdon - gbourdon@williamslake.ca
Councillor Sue Zacharias - szacharias@williamslake.ca
Earlier today, I submitted my AAP Process form opposing WL Council's desire to borrow up to $3.5 million to repair Mackenzie Avenue. Previous to this, I did inform WL City Councillors' Surinder Rathor and Geoff Bourdon of my reasons to oppose Bylaw #2109, 2009 and now I wish to share them with you:
Reason #1
At present, there is no plan as to how the City intends to proceed with the repair of Mackenzie Avenue except for a general statement on this project and that is unacceptable. I feel that if the City placed a high priority on this project, it should have held a "Town Hall" meeting on this project and answered any/all questions of the public prior to it proceeding with the formal request for permission to borrow up to $3.5 million for Mackenzie Avenue.
Reason #2
WL City Council has decided to use the AAP Process or Counter-Petition opportunity to gauge public support or opposition to borrowing money to repair Mackenzie Avenue. Given that Council is seeking permission to borrow up to $3.5 million, a binding referendum should have occurred and furthermore, the cost of the referendum could have been included in the budget for the Mackenzie Avenue Rehab Project
Reason #3
Mayor Cook, while campaigning last fall for the Mayor's Office, criticized the then Council for how it handled the borrowing of $6.5 million for the new Fire Hall (and yes, I voted against that borrowing bylaw as well) and yet, she and her Council are using the same process as the last Council used to borrow money for the new Fire Hall. If one is going to criticize sitting politicians, at least criticize, come up with your own solutions and then implement them. In my opinion, Mayor Cook's actions on this file completely make her a hypocrite
Again - if you are opposed to Council borrowing up to $3.5 million for the repair of the entire length of Mackenzie Avenue, you have until Monday, Feb 22nd/2010 to register your opposition. If you want more information, see the City's website at http://www.williamslake.ca/ or contact the Mayor and Council. Their contact information is as follows:
Mayor Kerry Cook - mayor@williamslake.ca
Councillor Surinder Rathor - srathor@williamslake.ca
Councillor Natalie Montoya - nmontoya@williamslake.ca
Councillor Tom Barr - tbarr@williamslake.ca
Councillor Laurie Walters - lwalters@williamslake.ca
Councillor Geoff Bourdon - gbourdon@williamslake.ca
Councillor Sue Zacharias - szacharias@williamslake.ca
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
MLA's pay to be frozen for two years
In not a entirely unexpected measure, Premier Campbell has announced that all MLA's pay is frozen for 2010 & 2011 to deal with the Province's fiscal challenges. This is, in addition, to all members of the provincial cabinet foregoing 10% of their pay until the Province returns to balanced budgets
The entire press release is below:
The annual cost-of-living compensation adjustment for government MLAs will be frozen for the next two years in recognition of the budget challenges facing British Columbia, Premier Gordon Campbell announced today.
“The global economic downturn is still having a major impact on government revenues, and we are grateful for the public service’s recognition of the tough choices we face as we commence contract negotiations for the coming years,” said Premier Campbell. “In recognition of the progress made to date with public-sector agreements already announced that provide for no wage increases for the next two years, the Province has decided to suspend the cost-of-living compensation increase for all government MLAs for the next two budget years.”
Government will pursue measures to suspend the annual April 1 consumer price index adjustment for the next two years, effectively freezing MLA pay. The compensation freeze will be effective for 2010 and 2011, which covers the same period as the existing public-sector contract negotiation mandate. In addition, all members of cabinet will continue to forgo ten per cent of their ministerial compensation until the Province returns to balanced budgets.
The entire press release is below:
The annual cost-of-living compensation adjustment for government MLAs will be frozen for the next two years in recognition of the budget challenges facing British Columbia, Premier Gordon Campbell announced today.
“The global economic downturn is still having a major impact on government revenues, and we are grateful for the public service’s recognition of the tough choices we face as we commence contract negotiations for the coming years,” said Premier Campbell. “In recognition of the progress made to date with public-sector agreements already announced that provide for no wage increases for the next two years, the Province has decided to suspend the cost-of-living compensation increase for all government MLAs for the next two budget years.”
Government will pursue measures to suspend the annual April 1 consumer price index adjustment for the next two years, effectively freezing MLA pay. The compensation freeze will be effective for 2010 and 2011, which covers the same period as the existing public-sector contract negotiation mandate. In addition, all members of cabinet will continue to forgo ten per cent of their ministerial compensation until the Province returns to balanced budgets.
Steve Rant - Outcome of Jan 19th Committee of the Whole (WL Council) Meeting
Last night, WL Council, meeting in Committee of the Whole had a good and healthly discussion on a variety of subjects including:
- Draft Secondary Suite Policy
- 2010-2014 Financial Plan - Next Steps
- Purchase of Tandem Trailer for the City's Float
- Community Arts Council's Financial Status
However, it was unfortunate that Councillor Walters chose not to remove herself from the meeting when the issue of the Community Arts Council came up for discussion. Now, it is well know that Councillor Walters has been, at one time, a member of the Studio Theatre Society. It is also known that she spoke at the last AGM of the Community Arts Council.
From an ethical point of view, she would have done herself a huge favour by taking the "high road" and remove herself from any discussion involving the Community Arts Council, especially if it involves City or Central Cariboo tax dollars. Doing this would have ensured that she can continue to advocate for the Arts community but without opening herself up to questions about potential conflicts. Sadly, this probably won't be the last time that I comment on a situation like this involving the Community Arts Council and Councillor Walters. Mayor Cook could have easily solved a situation like this by not appointed Councillor Walters to be in charge of the Arts & Culture File on Council.
Committee of the Whole (WL Council) Highlights - Jan 19th, 2010
Present:
Mayor Kerry Cook (Committee Chair) and Councillors Bourdon, Rathor, Walters and Zacharias
Absent:
Councillors Tom Barr & Natalie Montoya
Staff Present:
Brian Carruthers – CAO
Geoff Goodall – GM of Planning & Operations
Anne Burill – Social Development Manager
Randy Isfeld – Director of Protective Services
Deb Radolla – Manager of Active Living
Cindy Bouchard – Acting Corporate Officer
Meeting called to order at 6:33pm
Minutes
Minutes of the November 24th, 2009 Committee of the Whole Meeting were adopted
Business:
F2 – CRD/City of WL Phase 2 Rural Fire Protection Agreement
The Director of Protective Services reviewed his report with the Committee
The Committee recommended to Council –
That Council approve the Fire Boundary Phase 2 Expansion Agreement between the City of Williams Lake and the Cariboo Regional District and the Mayor and Corporate Officer be authorized to sign the agreement on behalf of the City”
Carried
Director of Protective Services left the meeting at 6:40pm
A1 – City Policy Review
Discussion ensued thereon by Committee members. The CAO reviewed Sue Moxey’s report with the Committee
The Committee recommended to Council –
“That Council declare redundant the Policies identified by the Director of Corporate Services and further, Staff bring forward recommendations to update remaining City Policies to reflect current processes and practices.”
Carried
F1 – 2010-2014 Financial Plan Review
The CAO reviewed the report of the General Manager of Corporate Services with the Committee
The Committee recommended to Council –
“That Council receive the 2010-2014 Financial Plan Schedule Report for information.”
Carried
D1 – Secondary Suites
The Manager of Social Development gave a Powerpoint Presentation to the Committee on the subject of Secondary Suites
The Presentation included:
• Definition of “Secondary Suites”
• What a Secondary Suite Policy seeks to accomplish
• Why Secondary Suites are becoming more popular & benefits of Secondary Suites
• Best Practice Guidelines from other communities on a Secondary Suite Policy
• Issues/Questions on developing a Secondary Suite Policy
• Public Engagement Approach – Community Meetings, Fact Sheets
Discussion ensued thereon by Committee members
The Committee recommended to Council –
“Council receive the report of the Manager of Social Development and Staff report back to Council on Staff, Financial and Revenue Implications with regard to a Secondary Suite policy”
Carried
D2 – Water Advisory Committee (Proposed Amendment to its’ Terms of Reference)
Discussion ensued thereon
The Committee recommended to Council –
That Council endorse the recommendation from the Water Advisory Committee and approve amending the Terms of Reference to allow for an increase from 6 to 7 members; and further, Dan Colgate be appointed as a member of the Committee.
Carried
C1 – Community Arts Council (Financial Status Report)
The CAO reviewed his report with the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon by Committee members
The Committee recommended to Council –
“Council receive the December report from the Community Arts Council, Staff discuss with the Community Arts Council the outstanding $9,163 back rent and Council approve occupancy of studio space in the old Fire Hall for the Spinners/Weavers, Potter’s Guild and Artists Society and office space for the Community Arts Council at a rental rate to be negotiated and approved by Council”
Carried
C2 – City Parade Float
The Manger of Active Living reviewed her report with the Committee
The Committee recommended to Council –
“That Council endorse Option “B” (Purchase of a 16 – 20 foot tandem axel car trailer) as outlined in the report of the Manager of Active Living dated December 2nd, 2009”
Carried
Adjournment:
The meeting adjourned at 8:36pm
Mayor Kerry Cook (Committee Chair) and Councillors Bourdon, Rathor, Walters and Zacharias
Absent:
Councillors Tom Barr & Natalie Montoya
Staff Present:
Brian Carruthers – CAO
Geoff Goodall – GM of Planning & Operations
Anne Burill – Social Development Manager
Randy Isfeld – Director of Protective Services
Deb Radolla – Manager of Active Living
Cindy Bouchard – Acting Corporate Officer
Meeting called to order at 6:33pm
Minutes
Minutes of the November 24th, 2009 Committee of the Whole Meeting were adopted
Business:
F2 – CRD/City of WL Phase 2 Rural Fire Protection Agreement
The Director of Protective Services reviewed his report with the Committee
The Committee recommended to Council –
That Council approve the Fire Boundary Phase 2 Expansion Agreement between the City of Williams Lake and the Cariboo Regional District and the Mayor and Corporate Officer be authorized to sign the agreement on behalf of the City”
Carried
Director of Protective Services left the meeting at 6:40pm
A1 – City Policy Review
Discussion ensued thereon by Committee members. The CAO reviewed Sue Moxey’s report with the Committee
The Committee recommended to Council –
“That Council declare redundant the Policies identified by the Director of Corporate Services and further, Staff bring forward recommendations to update remaining City Policies to reflect current processes and practices.”
Carried
F1 – 2010-2014 Financial Plan Review
The CAO reviewed the report of the General Manager of Corporate Services with the Committee
The Committee recommended to Council –
“That Council receive the 2010-2014 Financial Plan Schedule Report for information.”
Carried
D1 – Secondary Suites
The Manager of Social Development gave a Powerpoint Presentation to the Committee on the subject of Secondary Suites
The Presentation included:
• Definition of “Secondary Suites”
• What a Secondary Suite Policy seeks to accomplish
• Why Secondary Suites are becoming more popular & benefits of Secondary Suites
• Best Practice Guidelines from other communities on a Secondary Suite Policy
• Issues/Questions on developing a Secondary Suite Policy
• Public Engagement Approach – Community Meetings, Fact Sheets
Discussion ensued thereon by Committee members
The Committee recommended to Council –
“Council receive the report of the Manager of Social Development and Staff report back to Council on Staff, Financial and Revenue Implications with regard to a Secondary Suite policy”
Carried
D2 – Water Advisory Committee (Proposed Amendment to its’ Terms of Reference)
Discussion ensued thereon
The Committee recommended to Council –
That Council endorse the recommendation from the Water Advisory Committee and approve amending the Terms of Reference to allow for an increase from 6 to 7 members; and further, Dan Colgate be appointed as a member of the Committee.
Carried
C1 – Community Arts Council (Financial Status Report)
The CAO reviewed his report with the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon by Committee members
The Committee recommended to Council –
“Council receive the December report from the Community Arts Council, Staff discuss with the Community Arts Council the outstanding $9,163 back rent and Council approve occupancy of studio space in the old Fire Hall for the Spinners/Weavers, Potter’s Guild and Artists Society and office space for the Community Arts Council at a rental rate to be negotiated and approved by Council”
Carried
C2 – City Parade Float
The Manger of Active Living reviewed her report with the Committee
The Committee recommended to Council –
“That Council endorse Option “B” (Purchase of a 16 – 20 foot tandem axel car trailer) as outlined in the report of the Manager of Active Living dated December 2nd, 2009”
Carried
Adjournment:
The meeting adjourned at 8:36pm
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Torch Route in WL & New Alexis Creek Indian Band Chief
Sunday, January 17, 2010
SD #27 engages the Public to balance its' 2010-2011 Budget
The Board of Education for SD#27 has finalized its' public consultation schedule for consideration of how to balance the 2010-2011 Budget
More background information is here
The Schedule is:
Date Time Place
February 2, 2010 - 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. - (staff - CCTA) Peter Skene Ogden Secondary
February 2, 2010 - 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. - (staff - IUOE) Peter Skene Ogden Secondary
February 4, 2010 - 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. - (public) Peter Skene Ogden Secondary
February 8, 2010 - 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. - (public) Williams Lake Secondary
February 11, 2010 - 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. - (staff - CCTA) Cataline Elementary School
February 11, 2010 - 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. - (staff - IUOE) Cataline Elementary School
February 17, 2010 - 12:00 (noon) - 2:30 p.m. - (staff and public) Anahim Lake
February 17, 2010 - 5:00 - 7:30 p.m. - (staff and public) Tatla Lake
February 24, 2010 - 12:00(noon) - 2:30 p.m. - (staff and public) Alexis Creek
March 2, 2010 12:00 - (noon) - 2:30 p.m. - (staff and public) Dog Creek
March 3, 2010 12:00 - (noon) - 2:30 p.m. - (staff and public) Naghtaneqed
The Board of Education (SD #27) will adopt its' 2010-2011 Budget on Thursday, April 15th, 2010. The meeting usually begins around 7:00pm
More background information is here
The Schedule is:
Date Time Place
February 2, 2010 - 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. - (staff - CCTA) Peter Skene Ogden Secondary
February 2, 2010 - 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. - (staff - IUOE) Peter Skene Ogden Secondary
February 4, 2010 - 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. - (public) Peter Skene Ogden Secondary
February 8, 2010 - 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. - (public) Williams Lake Secondary
February 11, 2010 - 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. - (staff - CCTA) Cataline Elementary School
February 11, 2010 - 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. - (staff - IUOE) Cataline Elementary School
February 17, 2010 - 12:00 (noon) - 2:30 p.m. - (staff and public) Anahim Lake
February 17, 2010 - 5:00 - 7:30 p.m. - (staff and public) Tatla Lake
February 24, 2010 - 12:00(noon) - 2:30 p.m. - (staff and public) Alexis Creek
March 2, 2010 12:00 - (noon) - 2:30 p.m. - (staff and public) Dog Creek
March 3, 2010 12:00 - (noon) - 2:30 p.m. - (staff and public) Naghtaneqed
The Board of Education (SD #27) will adopt its' 2010-2011 Budget on Thursday, April 15th, 2010. The meeting usually begins around 7:00pm
Saturday, January 16, 2010
COW Agenda Item (City of WL Council) - Local Arts Council Financial Status Update
On Tuesday, WL Council, meeting in Committee of the Whole, will be receiving a report from the City's CAO regarding a financial status update of the Community Arts Council.
A portion of the recommendation going to the Committee leaves me really concerned. For the record, the offending portion is:
"That Council provide direction to staff with respect to recovery of outstanding rent for the occupancy of Heritage House totaling $9163 as of December 31, 2009"
City Staff have suggested in their report that Council could waive the $9,163.00 debt owed to the City, by way of Resolution.
Unfortunately, that would set a precedent that I don't want to see set. Furthermore, I believe that by waiving the debt, it would run afoul of Section 25(1) of the Community Charter, at least in spirit, which prohibits a Council from providing direct financial assistance to business. Now, although the Community Arts Council is, by definition, a "non-profit", the outcome is the same. If the Community Arts Council can not afford to pay its' debt to the City, then the City should pursue actions to collect on the debt including the possibility of imposing a "one strike and you're out" rule on their new home at the former City Fire Hall if the Community Arts Council missed 1 rent payment. Also, waiving the debt would also send a very poor political message to homeowners' who are, at this time, struggling to pay their mortgage.
I hope Council sends a message to the Community Arts Council - you owe us $9,163 and it will be paid. Taxpayers' expect no less.
A portion of the recommendation going to the Committee leaves me really concerned. For the record, the offending portion is:
"That Council provide direction to staff with respect to recovery of outstanding rent for the occupancy of Heritage House totaling $9163 as of December 31, 2009"
City Staff have suggested in their report that Council could waive the $9,163.00 debt owed to the City, by way of Resolution.
Unfortunately, that would set a precedent that I don't want to see set. Furthermore, I believe that by waiving the debt, it would run afoul of Section 25(1) of the Community Charter, at least in spirit, which prohibits a Council from providing direct financial assistance to business. Now, although the Community Arts Council is, by definition, a "non-profit", the outcome is the same. If the Community Arts Council can not afford to pay its' debt to the City, then the City should pursue actions to collect on the debt including the possibility of imposing a "one strike and you're out" rule on their new home at the former City Fire Hall if the Community Arts Council missed 1 rent payment. Also, waiving the debt would also send a very poor political message to homeowners' who are, at this time, struggling to pay their mortgage.
I hope Council sends a message to the Community Arts Council - you owe us $9,163 and it will be paid. Taxpayers' expect no less.
Local Government Meetings in Cariboo-Chilcotin - Week of Jan 18-22
A number of local governments in the region are having meetings' this upcoming week:
Monday, January 18th - City of Quesnel (meets in Committee of the Whole, then a Special Open Meeting)
http://quesnel.fileprosite.com/contentengine/document.asp?id=4021
Tuesday, January 19th - City of WL (meets in Committee of the Whole)
http://williamslake.ihostez.com/contentengine/document.asp?id=7996
Thursday, January 21st at 5:00pm - Central Cariboo Joint Committee (meets in CRD Boardroom)
Thursday, January 21st at 7:00pm - CRD/City of WL Joint Town Hall to discuss 2010 CRD Budget (meets at new City of WL Fire Hall - corner of Hodgson Rd and South Lakeside Drive, across from Canadian Tire)
Friday, January 22nd - Cariboo Regional District
http://www.cariboord.bc.ca/crddirectors/2010%20agendas/January/January%2022,%202010/agenda.htm
Monday, January 18th - City of Quesnel (meets in Committee of the Whole, then a Special Open Meeting)
http://quesnel.fileprosite.com/contentengine/document.asp?id=4021
Tuesday, January 19th - City of WL (meets in Committee of the Whole)
http://williamslake.ihostez.com/contentengine/document.asp?id=7996
Thursday, January 21st at 5:00pm - Central Cariboo Joint Committee (meets in CRD Boardroom)
Thursday, January 21st at 7:00pm - CRD/City of WL Joint Town Hall to discuss 2010 CRD Budget (meets at new City of WL Fire Hall - corner of Hodgson Rd and South Lakeside Drive, across from Canadian Tire)
Friday, January 22nd - Cariboo Regional District
http://www.cariboord.bc.ca/crddirectors/2010%20agendas/January/January%2022,%202010/agenda.htm
Friday, January 15, 2010
Province approves Prosperity Mine Project
WL Tribune reports the Province has granted an Environmental Certificate for the Prosperity Mine Project, west of Williams Lake. More info here
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Thursday News Round-up
In the Tribune today:
1) Mackenzie Avenue Borrowing Bylaw Counter-Petition Process Starts Jan 21 - more here
2) Federal Environmental Assessment Panellist Morin will not be asked to recuse herself (Prosperity Mine Project) - more here
3) WL Council signs 5-year lease with CMHA for Heritage House - more here
4) Local Arts Council awaits completion of renovations to old Fire Hall - more here
1) Mackenzie Avenue Borrowing Bylaw Counter-Petition Process Starts Jan 21 - more here
2) Federal Environmental Assessment Panellist Morin will not be asked to recuse herself (Prosperity Mine Project) - more here
3) WL Council signs 5-year lease with CMHA for Heritage House - more here
4) Local Arts Council awaits completion of renovations to old Fire Hall - more here
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Steve Rant - Outcome of January 12th, 2010 WL Council Meeting
1) Use of Emergency Powers at 238 Crosina Crescent
Last night, Council agreed in a 6-1 Vote to invoke using emergency powers, as provided by Section 20(2) of the Community Charter with respect to actions taken for a failed retaining wall at 238 Crosina Crescent
The debate was quite lively when Councillor Rathor spoke on the issue and he spoke 3 times on the issue. His concerns are the same as mine:
i) How does declaring an emergency 3 months after the fact constitute an emergency?
I believe Mayor Cook should have used her authority to declare an emergency later that morning (retaining wall failed at 2:00am). Council, I'm sure, would have agreed to ratify the order, had it been presented to Council
Also - Staff should have notified the homeowners' at 238 Crosina Crescent about this motion of emergency powers, just like they did when Council was presented with a "Remedial Action Resolution". Again, it's about Customer Service
At this time, a report about division of costs pertaining to the failed retaining wall will be presented to Council at a future meeting, at which point, Council could decide to:
i) assign no costs to the homeowners'
ii) seek the homeowners to pay for a portion of costs
iii) seek the homeowners to pay for all costs
In this case, I believe that because the wall was certified by City Staff, after receiving a certified engineering stamp from a Certified Civil Engineer with regard to the Retaining Wall, all costs should be borne by the City
2) Mayor Cook's Council Appointments in 2010
Mayor Cook released her Council appointments for 2010 and they are, as follows:
Mayor Cook - Administration & Policing
Councillor Rathor - Recreation Services
Councillor Montoya - Social Services and Environment
Councillor Barr - Financial Services and Emergency Ops & Planning
Councillor Walters - Community Services
Councillor Bourdon - Economic Development
Councillor Zacharias - Public Works and Development Services
I was disappointed on various fronts, including:
1) No Councillor was doing a bad job at their Portfolio and all Portfolios in 2009 should have remained the same for 2010
2) Several Conflicts of Interest now arise, due to the changes Mayor Cook has imposed:
Councillor Zacharias - given her role at United Concrete and concrete is used in Public Works projects, the Portfolio should have remained with Councillor Rathor, who quite frankly was doing an excellent job at Public Works and Development Services
Councillor Walters - given her historical association with the Studio Theatre Society (a member of the Community Arts Council and the Arts Council was a major proponent of the local Arts and Culture Function), I question her objectivity on this file in the Community Services Portfolio
Bottom Line - I would suggest that Mayor Cook was more interested in protecting her friends on Council, rather than putting Councillors in the right Portfolios and with the exception of Councillors Zacharias and Walters, all other Councillors are in the right Portfolios
Last night, Council agreed in a 6-1 Vote to invoke using emergency powers, as provided by Section 20(2) of the Community Charter with respect to actions taken for a failed retaining wall at 238 Crosina Crescent
The debate was quite lively when Councillor Rathor spoke on the issue and he spoke 3 times on the issue. His concerns are the same as mine:
i) How does declaring an emergency 3 months after the fact constitute an emergency?
I believe Mayor Cook should have used her authority to declare an emergency later that morning (retaining wall failed at 2:00am). Council, I'm sure, would have agreed to ratify the order, had it been presented to Council
Also - Staff should have notified the homeowners' at 238 Crosina Crescent about this motion of emergency powers, just like they did when Council was presented with a "Remedial Action Resolution". Again, it's about Customer Service
At this time, a report about division of costs pertaining to the failed retaining wall will be presented to Council at a future meeting, at which point, Council could decide to:
i) assign no costs to the homeowners'
ii) seek the homeowners to pay for a portion of costs
iii) seek the homeowners to pay for all costs
In this case, I believe that because the wall was certified by City Staff, after receiving a certified engineering stamp from a Certified Civil Engineer with regard to the Retaining Wall, all costs should be borne by the City
2) Mayor Cook's Council Appointments in 2010
Mayor Cook released her Council appointments for 2010 and they are, as follows:
Mayor Cook - Administration & Policing
Councillor Rathor - Recreation Services
Councillor Montoya - Social Services and Environment
Councillor Barr - Financial Services and Emergency Ops & Planning
Councillor Walters - Community Services
Councillor Bourdon - Economic Development
Councillor Zacharias - Public Works and Development Services
I was disappointed on various fronts, including:
1) No Councillor was doing a bad job at their Portfolio and all Portfolios in 2009 should have remained the same for 2010
2) Several Conflicts of Interest now arise, due to the changes Mayor Cook has imposed:
Councillor Zacharias - given her role at United Concrete and concrete is used in Public Works projects, the Portfolio should have remained with Councillor Rathor, who quite frankly was doing an excellent job at Public Works and Development Services
Councillor Walters - given her historical association with the Studio Theatre Society (a member of the Community Arts Council and the Arts Council was a major proponent of the local Arts and Culture Function), I question her objectivity on this file in the Community Services Portfolio
Bottom Line - I would suggest that Mayor Cook was more interested in protecting her friends on Council, rather than putting Councillors in the right Portfolios and with the exception of Councillors Zacharias and Walters, all other Councillors are in the right Portfolios
WL Council Meeting Highlights - January 12th, 2010
Present: Mayor Cook and Councillors’ Zacharias, Bourdon, Walters, Barr, Montoya and Rathor
Staff Present:
B. Carruthers – CAO
D. Lazzarin – GM of Corporate Services
G. Goodall – GM of Planning & Operations
C. Bouchard – Acting Corporate Officer
T. Chung – Manager of IT
Meeting called to order at 7:30pm
Minutes of December 15th, 2009 Council Meeting approved
1 Late Item added to the Agenda (Mayor Cook’s Council Appointments for 2010)
Delegations:
1) Staff-Sgt Warren Brown (Detachment Commander – WL RCMP) presented Crime Stats for period ending December 31st, 2009. All Crime Stats show year-over-year decrease (December 31st, 2009 vs December 31st, 2008) and various initiatives of WL RCMP Detachment with regard to Crime Prevention
2) Mayor Cook presented “Community Spirit Awards” to Columneetza & WL Secondary Students with regard to their participation in the December 4th, 2009 “Challenge Day” event. A video of “Challenge Day 2009” was presented to Council and a “Certificate of Appreciation” was presented to Mayor Cook for Council helping to sponsor “Challenge Day 2009”.
Business:
1) Council confirmed renewal of the Police Based Victim Service Program Agreement for the fiscal year April 1, 2010 to March 31, 2011 and staff were authorized to complete the necessary funding application for submission to the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General
2) Council approved a Staff Recommendation to deny a request from Yang Zhang and Yan Meng to waive a $37.94 penalty for paying their Utility Invoice late
3) Council approved waiving Transit fees on January 28, 2010 from 3:00 pm to 9:30 pm to facilitate the transportation of residents to the Olympic Torch Relay Celebration at the Stampede Grounds on Thursday, January 28th, 2009.
4) At the request of WL Elks Lodge, Council approved installation of two handicap parking stalls adjacent to the Elks Lodge at 98 South First Avenue in the Spring of 2010
5) Council authorized entering into the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund Contribution Agreement between the Province and the City of Williams Lake for the Mackenzie Avenue Rehabilitation Project.
6) Council approved the following with respect to the alternative approval process for Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 2108 for the Mackenzie Avenue Rehabilitation Project:
a) for purposes of the alternative approval process, the determination of City electors be established at 7,922;
b) elector response forms for this process be in the form of Attachment "A" to this report;
c) the deadline for the receipt of elector response forms at City Hall be Monday, February 22, 2010, at 4 p.m
Alternate Approval Process forms to be available on Wednesday, January 13th, 2010
7) The report of the Accessibility Advisory Committee dated January 5, 2010 regarding lack of transportation options for disabled persons was received and referred to the Development Services & Public Works Portfolio for a recommendation back to Council.
8) Council made the following declarations, with regard to use of Emergency Powers at 238 Crosina Crescent:
a) That the failure of the retaining wall located at 238 Crosina Crescent created an emergency as under Section 20(2) of the Community Charter;
b) That Council ratifies all actions taken by City staff, employees, agents or contractors to alleviate the emergency and assess the safety of the site and,
c) That the City is empowered to recover all its costs from the owner of 238 Crosina Crescent, including the costs of retaining the services of Golder Associates and Evergreen Geotechnical Inc
Item approved on the following vote:
Yeas – Mayor Cook and Councillors Montoya, Barr, Walters, Bourdon and Zacharias
Nays – Councillor Rathor
9) Council approved the City of Williams Lake Accessibility Award of Merit guidelines and criteria and that the program is to be included on the City website and other promotions as appropriate.
10) Council authorized the Mayor and Acting Corporate Officer to sign the lease agreement with the Canadian Mental Health Association for use of Heritage House.
11) Council approved the Street Naming application and added the name "HOLTOM" to the list of approved names for consideration in future street naming processes
12) Council received for information Mayor Cook’s Council Appointments for the 2010 Term
Item approved on the following vote:
Yeas – Mayor Cook and Councillors Montoya, Barr, Walters, Bourdon and Zacharias
Nays – Councillor Rathor
Information/Announcements by Council Members:
Members of Council made announcements around events occurring in Williams Lake
Meeting adjourned at 9:32pm
Staff Present:
B. Carruthers – CAO
D. Lazzarin – GM of Corporate Services
G. Goodall – GM of Planning & Operations
C. Bouchard – Acting Corporate Officer
T. Chung – Manager of IT
Meeting called to order at 7:30pm
Minutes of December 15th, 2009 Council Meeting approved
1 Late Item added to the Agenda (Mayor Cook’s Council Appointments for 2010)
Delegations:
1) Staff-Sgt Warren Brown (Detachment Commander – WL RCMP) presented Crime Stats for period ending December 31st, 2009. All Crime Stats show year-over-year decrease (December 31st, 2009 vs December 31st, 2008) and various initiatives of WL RCMP Detachment with regard to Crime Prevention
2) Mayor Cook presented “Community Spirit Awards” to Columneetza & WL Secondary Students with regard to their participation in the December 4th, 2009 “Challenge Day” event. A video of “Challenge Day 2009” was presented to Council and a “Certificate of Appreciation” was presented to Mayor Cook for Council helping to sponsor “Challenge Day 2009”.
Business:
1) Council confirmed renewal of the Police Based Victim Service Program Agreement for the fiscal year April 1, 2010 to March 31, 2011 and staff were authorized to complete the necessary funding application for submission to the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General
2) Council approved a Staff Recommendation to deny a request from Yang Zhang and Yan Meng to waive a $37.94 penalty for paying their Utility Invoice late
3) Council approved waiving Transit fees on January 28, 2010 from 3:00 pm to 9:30 pm to facilitate the transportation of residents to the Olympic Torch Relay Celebration at the Stampede Grounds on Thursday, January 28th, 2009.
4) At the request of WL Elks Lodge, Council approved installation of two handicap parking stalls adjacent to the Elks Lodge at 98 South First Avenue in the Spring of 2010
5) Council authorized entering into the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund Contribution Agreement between the Province and the City of Williams Lake for the Mackenzie Avenue Rehabilitation Project.
6) Council approved the following with respect to the alternative approval process for Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 2108 for the Mackenzie Avenue Rehabilitation Project:
a) for purposes of the alternative approval process, the determination of City electors be established at 7,922;
b) elector response forms for this process be in the form of Attachment "A" to this report;
c) the deadline for the receipt of elector response forms at City Hall be Monday, February 22, 2010, at 4 p.m
Alternate Approval Process forms to be available on Wednesday, January 13th, 2010
7) The report of the Accessibility Advisory Committee dated January 5, 2010 regarding lack of transportation options for disabled persons was received and referred to the Development Services & Public Works Portfolio for a recommendation back to Council.
8) Council made the following declarations, with regard to use of Emergency Powers at 238 Crosina Crescent:
a) That the failure of the retaining wall located at 238 Crosina Crescent created an emergency as under Section 20(2) of the Community Charter;
b) That Council ratifies all actions taken by City staff, employees, agents or contractors to alleviate the emergency and assess the safety of the site and,
c) That the City is empowered to recover all its costs from the owner of 238 Crosina Crescent, including the costs of retaining the services of Golder Associates and Evergreen Geotechnical Inc
Item approved on the following vote:
Yeas – Mayor Cook and Councillors Montoya, Barr, Walters, Bourdon and Zacharias
Nays – Councillor Rathor
9) Council approved the City of Williams Lake Accessibility Award of Merit guidelines and criteria and that the program is to be included on the City website and other promotions as appropriate.
10) Council authorized the Mayor and Acting Corporate Officer to sign the lease agreement with the Canadian Mental Health Association for use of Heritage House.
11) Council approved the Street Naming application and added the name "HOLTOM" to the list of approved names for consideration in future street naming processes
12) Council received for information Mayor Cook’s Council Appointments for the 2010 Term
Item approved on the following vote:
Yeas – Mayor Cook and Councillors Montoya, Barr, Walters, Bourdon and Zacharias
Nays – Councillor Rathor
Information/Announcements by Council Members:
Members of Council made announcements around events occurring in Williams Lake
Meeting adjourned at 9:32pm
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