In one of my last posts, I'd suggested that Councillor Rathor was in favour of a 3.5% tax increase to the City's 2010 Budget, however he called me this morning to clarify his take on the City Budget.
So officially for the record, here are the Mayor and Councillors' take on the final draft of the City Budget for 2010:
Councillor Surinder Rathor - 2.0% tax increase
Mayor Cook and Councillors Barr & Montoya - 3.5 % tax increase
Councillors Bourdon & Zacharias - 5.0% tax increase
Councillor Laurie Walters (as I noted yesterday) was not in attendance so I'm not sure what her position on the City's 2010 Budget is however if history is any indication, then I suspect that she will go with Mayor Cook and Councillors Barr and Montoya's position on the City's 2010 Budget and support a 3.5% tax increase.
My public apologies to Councillor Surinder Rathor for suggesting that he supported a 3.5% tax increase when he clearly did not
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Steve Rant - 2010 City of WL Budget & Time Change to WL Council Meetings'
At tonight's Committee of the Whole meeting (WL Council), Council debated 2 items which I want to provide my "spin" on:
1) Change to Council Meetings' Start Time
The Committee discussed moving the start time for Council meetings from 7:30pm to 6:00pm and Committee of the Whole Meetings at 6:30pm. Several Councillors including Sue Zacharias, Natalie Montoya and Geoff Bourdon suggested that the public interest will not be unduly affected as it is rare for a lot of members of the public to show up for a Council meeting at 7:30pm.
However, my take on it is that this is the act of "elitist" Councillors who want Council meetings to fit their schedule and not the public's. I will be writing a formal letter to Council over the Easter break protesting vehemently these changes. If this recommendation is adopted by Council at its' April 6th meeting, then the changes will be effective on April 20th, 2010
2) 2010 City of WL Budget
The Committee was presented with the final draft of the 2010 City of WL Budget and during discussions, Councillors Bourdon & Zacharias let it be known that they favour a 5% tax increase for 2010, rather than a 3.5% tax increase proposed by Councillor Tom Barr and his Financial Services Portfolio and currently favoured by Mayor Cook and Councillors Barr, Rathor and Montoya. It was also noted that because other costs (25% increase to Utility costs and charges for new Garbage/Recycling Bins, HST) are being imposed on City taxpayers' for 2010, going for a 5% tax increase would be a "non-starter" with City of WL taxpayers'.
I find it absolutely insulting when two City Councillors' (Bourdon & Zacharias) tell me as a City taxpayer that there is no big deal by Council increasing property taxes by 5% this year, in addition to the 25% this year and 2011 to Utility charges, charges for the City's new recycling/garbage containers, HST, School Taxes.
These two City Councillors' do not live in the City so the tax increase does not affect them as it would Mayor Cook and Councillors Barr, Rathor, Walters, and Montoya so shame on them for suggesting it. If WL Council formally proposes a 3.5% tax increase budget for 2010, then I will consider that a prudent budget considering the economic situation the City is in and taking into account costs the City must pay for.
1) Change to Council Meetings' Start Time
The Committee discussed moving the start time for Council meetings from 7:30pm to 6:00pm and Committee of the Whole Meetings at 6:30pm. Several Councillors including Sue Zacharias, Natalie Montoya and Geoff Bourdon suggested that the public interest will not be unduly affected as it is rare for a lot of members of the public to show up for a Council meeting at 7:30pm.
However, my take on it is that this is the act of "elitist" Councillors who want Council meetings to fit their schedule and not the public's. I will be writing a formal letter to Council over the Easter break protesting vehemently these changes. If this recommendation is adopted by Council at its' April 6th meeting, then the changes will be effective on April 20th, 2010
2) 2010 City of WL Budget
The Committee was presented with the final draft of the 2010 City of WL Budget and during discussions, Councillors Bourdon & Zacharias let it be known that they favour a 5% tax increase for 2010, rather than a 3.5% tax increase proposed by Councillor Tom Barr and his Financial Services Portfolio and currently favoured by Mayor Cook and Councillors Barr, Rathor and Montoya. It was also noted that because other costs (25% increase to Utility costs and charges for new Garbage/Recycling Bins, HST) are being imposed on City taxpayers' for 2010, going for a 5% tax increase would be a "non-starter" with City of WL taxpayers'.
I find it absolutely insulting when two City Councillors' (Bourdon & Zacharias) tell me as a City taxpayer that there is no big deal by Council increasing property taxes by 5% this year, in addition to the 25% this year and 2011 to Utility charges, charges for the City's new recycling/garbage containers, HST, School Taxes.
These two City Councillors' do not live in the City so the tax increase does not affect them as it would Mayor Cook and Councillors Barr, Rathor, Walters, and Montoya so shame on them for suggesting it. If WL Council formally proposes a 3.5% tax increase budget for 2010, then I will consider that a prudent budget considering the economic situation the City is in and taking into account costs the City must pay for.
Committee of the Whole (WL Council) Highlights - March 30th
Present – Mayor Cook and Councillors Rathor, Bourdon, Montoya, Zacharias and Barr
Absent - Councillor L. Walters
Staff Present:
Brian Carruthers – CAO
Darcy Lazzarin – GM of Corporate Services
Geoff Goodall – GM of Planning & Operations
Cindy Bouchard – Manager of Legislative Services
Rena Schill – Corporate Services Clerk
Meeting called to order at 5:30pm
Minutes of March 16th, 2010 COW Meeting approved
Delegations – None
Business:
1) Notice of Proposed Amendments to Council Procedure Bylaw No. 1940, 2004
Discussion ensued thereon by Committee members.
The Committee recommended to Council:
That Council give public notice of its intention to amend Council Procedure Bylaw No. 1940, 2004, pursuant to Section 124 of the Community Charter
2) 2010 - 2014 Financial Plan
The General Manager of Corporate Services & Councillor Barr presented this item to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon by Committee members
Meeting recessed at 6:30pm to resume In-Camera – Section 90(1f) of the Community Charter
Absent - Councillor L. Walters
Staff Present:
Brian Carruthers – CAO
Darcy Lazzarin – GM of Corporate Services
Geoff Goodall – GM of Planning & Operations
Cindy Bouchard – Manager of Legislative Services
Rena Schill – Corporate Services Clerk
Meeting called to order at 5:30pm
Minutes of March 16th, 2010 COW Meeting approved
Delegations – None
Business:
1) Notice of Proposed Amendments to Council Procedure Bylaw No. 1940, 2004
Discussion ensued thereon by Committee members.
The Committee recommended to Council:
That Council give public notice of its intention to amend Council Procedure Bylaw No. 1940, 2004, pursuant to Section 124 of the Community Charter
2) 2010 - 2014 Financial Plan
The General Manager of Corporate Services & Councillor Barr presented this item to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon by Committee members
Meeting recessed at 6:30pm to resume In-Camera – Section 90(1f) of the Community Charter
Law Firm publishes document on local gov't censure motions
Young and Anderson - a Vancouver-based law firm specializing in local government law matters has published a guide for local governments when passing censure motions involving elected officials or restricting access between elected officials and local government staff
You can find the guide here
Those whom are elected officials or local government staff should take an opportunity to read this guide as it can save on unnecessary court costs & lawsuits
You can find the guide here
Those whom are elected officials or local government staff should take an opportunity to read this guide as it can save on unnecessary court costs & lawsuits
Statement of Claim - Duncan Barnett vs. Janis Bell, Jon Wolbers, Ronda Wilkins, John Doe, Jane Roe and the Cariboo Regional District
This afternoon, I received a full copy of the Statement of Claim in the civil case of Duncan Barnett v. Jon Wolbers, Ronda Wilkins, Janis Bell, Cariboo Regional District, and John Doe & Jane Roe
I should point out that this is a public document and can be accessed at the local Court Registry or online (note - you will have to pay a $12.00 fee to access the document)
Although I will not repeat verbatim the allegations contained in this Statement of Claim as they are unproven at this stage, I will say that it pertains to certain actions of the Regional District going back to October - December 2008 involving the Area 'F' Director
I feel sorry for the Supreme Court Justice who has to preside over this case as it will be a more complicated case that the one that Area 'F' Director Duncan Barnett initiated in 2009 against the Cariboo Regional District, but I will be personally watching this one to see what happens
To the best of my knowledge, the Cariboo Regional District has not filed a Statement of Defence but I fully expect that they will do so in the days and weeks ahead
If you wish to see a full copy of the Statement of Claim - please contact me at sforseth@shaw.ca and I'll be glad to provide you with a copy of it
I should point out that this is a public document and can be accessed at the local Court Registry or online (note - you will have to pay a $12.00 fee to access the document)
Although I will not repeat verbatim the allegations contained in this Statement of Claim as they are unproven at this stage, I will say that it pertains to certain actions of the Regional District going back to October - December 2008 involving the Area 'F' Director
I feel sorry for the Supreme Court Justice who has to preside over this case as it will be a more complicated case that the one that Area 'F' Director Duncan Barnett initiated in 2009 against the Cariboo Regional District, but I will be personally watching this one to see what happens
To the best of my knowledge, the Cariboo Regional District has not filed a Statement of Defence but I fully expect that they will do so in the days and weeks ahead
If you wish to see a full copy of the Statement of Claim - please contact me at sforseth@shaw.ca and I'll be glad to provide you with a copy of it
BC Finance Minister introduces Provincial HST Legislation
This afternoon, BC Finance Minister Colin Hansen introduced Bill 9 - Consumption Tax Rebate and Transition Act which is the provincial enabling legislation for the HST to formally go ahead. The Federal Parliament has already passed its' legislation to enable the HST federally.
However, in an not entirely surprising move, the NDP called for and got a division vote on introduction and first reading of Bill 9, which passed by a vote of 47-34. Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett voted in favour of 1st Reading of Bill 9 while Cariboo-North MLA Bob Simpson voted against 1st Reading of Bill 9
Second Reading debate on Bill 9 could start as early as tomorrow. Finance Minister Colin Hansen also advised the Speaker (Hon. Bill Barisoff) and the House that the government intends to have this legislation (Bill 9) passed not later than April 30th, 2010
The contents of Bill 9 can be found here
However, in an not entirely surprising move, the NDP called for and got a division vote on introduction and first reading of Bill 9, which passed by a vote of 47-34. Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett voted in favour of 1st Reading of Bill 9 while Cariboo-North MLA Bob Simpson voted against 1st Reading of Bill 9
Second Reading debate on Bill 9 could start as early as tomorrow. Finance Minister Colin Hansen also advised the Speaker (Hon. Bill Barisoff) and the House that the government intends to have this legislation (Bill 9) passed not later than April 30th, 2010
The contents of Bill 9 can be found here
Monday, March 29, 2010
CRD Public Hearing Dates - Text Amendments to various OCP's and RLUB's (Greenhouse Gas Reduction Actions and Targets)
Here is the Cariboo Regional District's public hearing schedule with regard to text amendments on greenhouse gas reduction actions & targets to the various Official Community Plans & Rural Land Use Bylaws:
April 12 at 7 pm Lac la Hache Community Hall on Lac La Hache OCP
April 13 at 7 pm Gibraltar Room (Cariboo Memorial Complex)on both Central Cariboo RLUB & 150 Mile House OCP
April 14 at 6 pm Tatla Lake Community Hall on Chilcotin Area RLUB
April 15 at 7:30 pm The Lodge Conference Centre (100 Mile House) on South Cariboo OCP
April 20 at 7 pm Quesnel Legion Hall on North Cariboo RLUB & Quesnel Fringe OCP
April 26 at 7 pm Interlakes Community Hall on Interlakes OCP
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Adrian Dix visits the Cariboo-Chilcotin
Yesterday, Vancouver-Kingsway NDP MLA Adrian Dix was in 100 Mile House & Williams Lake at NDP sponsored events.
An article on Mr. Dix's visit in Williams Lake can be found here
However, he, like his fellow NDP MLA's, hangs on to the past when describing past & current wrongs of the BC Liberal Government including:
* legislation stripping contract rights of workers from the Hospital Employees Union (note - provincial government & HEU workers have now come to an agreement after the Supreme Court of Canada declared Bill 29 - 2002 illegal)
* BC Liberal Party lied to voters on the HST in the 2009 Provincial General Election
I find that the NDP hanging on to past wrongs, especially those committed in 2002, as truly sad and shows that the NDP have no vision for this Province
On the subject of the HST, I find that the BC Liberal Party did not lie to the voters as I submit it was something that was not contemplated at that time however, as the Premier points out rightfully, sometimes when the facts or situation changes, then you must change your position as well.
Stay tuned for more NDP members to tour in the Cariboo-Chilcotin Riding in order to reclaim this riding back from the BC Liberals. However, and I'm biased here, I believe that the BC Liberals will hang on to the riding in 2013 and get Cariboo-North and Fraser-Nicola back into the BC Liberal camp in the 2013 Provincial General Election as we will demonstrate during that election that the BC Liberal Party has a positive vision for the Province, compared to the NDP's "Negative, Destructive and Pessimistic" vision for the Province
An article on Mr. Dix's visit in Williams Lake can be found here
However, he, like his fellow NDP MLA's, hangs on to the past when describing past & current wrongs of the BC Liberal Government including:
* legislation stripping contract rights of workers from the Hospital Employees Union (note - provincial government & HEU workers have now come to an agreement after the Supreme Court of Canada declared Bill 29 - 2002 illegal)
* BC Liberal Party lied to voters on the HST in the 2009 Provincial General Election
I find that the NDP hanging on to past wrongs, especially those committed in 2002, as truly sad and shows that the NDP have no vision for this Province
On the subject of the HST, I find that the BC Liberal Party did not lie to the voters as I submit it was something that was not contemplated at that time however, as the Premier points out rightfully, sometimes when the facts or situation changes, then you must change your position as well.
Stay tuned for more NDP members to tour in the Cariboo-Chilcotin Riding in order to reclaim this riding back from the BC Liberals. However, and I'm biased here, I believe that the BC Liberals will hang on to the riding in 2013 and get Cariboo-North and Fraser-Nicola back into the BC Liberal camp in the 2013 Provincial General Election as we will demonstrate during that election that the BC Liberal Party has a positive vision for the Province, compared to the NDP's "Negative, Destructive and Pessimistic" vision for the Province
Steve Rant - Agenda Item: Changes to WL Council Procedure Bylaw
On Tuesday, WL Council, meeting in Committee of the Whole, will be considering a report from the City's Legislative Services Manager regarding amendments to the Council Procedure Bylaw
Such amendments include:
* Formally authorizing use of electronic means at Council or Committee of the Whole meetings, with the restriction that it may be used only 4 times per year
* Moving the start time of Council Meetings from 7:30pm to 6:00pm
I am of the view that some of the proposals are contrary to the public interest for the following reasons:
1) Moving the start time from 7:30pm to 6:00pm could prevent the public from watching Council deciding on issues to which the public has an interest in (as most know, people just get off work at 5-5:30pm, and depending on where they work, there would not be sufficient time for them to get home and come to Council Chambers prior to the 6:00pm Council meeting). The best thing to have done would be to move the meeting time to 7:00pm and when done in conjunction with a Public Hearing, then Council could hold a Public Hearing and then immediately convene the Council Meeting so the public could see what Council's decision is on a Planning Application (OCP or Zoning Amendment)
As a rhetorical question - Does WL Council intend to change the Public Hearing time to suit their schedule??
2) Restricting the use of electronic means at Council/Committee of the Whole Meeting to 4 times per year is, in my view, a grave restriction on the rights and privileges of a Council Member. If the need is required for a Council Member to participate in a meeting electronically because they are either sick or away on City Business, then they should be allowed to use this tool whenever the need arises and not have a restriction placed upon them
In addition, Council should be posting their public meeting notices on the City Website and this should be authorized in the Council Procedure Bylaw. Quesnel Council has already authorized this in their Procedure Bylaw since 2004 and has worked out quite well. This would enhance the public's knowledge around what Council is up to
Click here for more information
Such amendments include:
* Formally authorizing use of electronic means at Council or Committee of the Whole meetings, with the restriction that it may be used only 4 times per year
* Moving the start time of Council Meetings from 7:30pm to 6:00pm
I am of the view that some of the proposals are contrary to the public interest for the following reasons:
1) Moving the start time from 7:30pm to 6:00pm could prevent the public from watching Council deciding on issues to which the public has an interest in (as most know, people just get off work at 5-5:30pm, and depending on where they work, there would not be sufficient time for them to get home and come to Council Chambers prior to the 6:00pm Council meeting). The best thing to have done would be to move the meeting time to 7:00pm and when done in conjunction with a Public Hearing, then Council could hold a Public Hearing and then immediately convene the Council Meeting so the public could see what Council's decision is on a Planning Application (OCP or Zoning Amendment)
As a rhetorical question - Does WL Council intend to change the Public Hearing time to suit their schedule??
2) Restricting the use of electronic means at Council/Committee of the Whole Meeting to 4 times per year is, in my view, a grave restriction on the rights and privileges of a Council Member. If the need is required for a Council Member to participate in a meeting electronically because they are either sick or away on City Business, then they should be allowed to use this tool whenever the need arises and not have a restriction placed upon them
In addition, Council should be posting their public meeting notices on the City Website and this should be authorized in the Council Procedure Bylaw. Quesnel Council has already authorized this in their Procedure Bylaw since 2004 and has worked out quite well. This would enhance the public's knowledge around what Council is up to
Click here for more information
Steve Rant - Outcome of March 24th Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting
At the March 24th Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting, Area 'D' Director Deb Bischoff tabled a request to withdraw Electoral Area 'D' from the Cariboo Regional District Arts and Culture Function. However, this request met with stiff resistance from Williams Lake City Councillors Geoff Bourdon and Sue Zacharias, Area 'E' Director Steve Mazur and Alternate Area 'F' Director Joan Sorley.
The comments they provided include:
* 30 people out of Area 'D''s total population of roughly 3,000 should not be a sufficient reason to pull Area 'D' out of this Function.
* Did a vote take place? How did Director Bischoff determine that her electorate wish to no longer participate in the Arts and Culture Function?
* If Area 'D' pulls out, then Area 'E', Area 'F' and the City of Williams Lake voters may ask for similar treatment
Given the above comments, it was entirely inappropriate for those comments from the various elected officials;
Firstly - if Director Bischoff makes a reasonable request (which this was) then we should take it at face value and the rest of the service participants in the Arts and Culture Function should decide how to make the Function work for Electoral Areas E, F and the City of Williams Lake.
Secondly - as a rule, we should try not to interfere in an Electoral Area's business, even if an City Councillor lives in the same Electoral Area
As a City resident, I feel very sorry and ashamed that WL City Councillors Bourdon, Zacharias, and Walters in addition to Director Mazur and Alternate Director Sorley interfered in the business of Area 'D'. Certainly, they (with the exception of WL City Councillor Sue Zacharias) don't know what Director Bischoff was told by her voters' and consequently, a request from an Electoral Area Director must always be taken at face value.
The comments they provided include:
* 30 people out of Area 'D''s total population of roughly 3,000 should not be a sufficient reason to pull Area 'D' out of this Function.
* Did a vote take place? How did Director Bischoff determine that her electorate wish to no longer participate in the Arts and Culture Function?
* If Area 'D' pulls out, then Area 'E', Area 'F' and the City of Williams Lake voters may ask for similar treatment
Given the above comments, it was entirely inappropriate for those comments from the various elected officials;
Firstly - if Director Bischoff makes a reasonable request (which this was) then we should take it at face value and the rest of the service participants in the Arts and Culture Function should decide how to make the Function work for Electoral Areas E, F and the City of Williams Lake.
Secondly - as a rule, we should try not to interfere in an Electoral Area's business, even if an City Councillor lives in the same Electoral Area
As a City resident, I feel very sorry and ashamed that WL City Councillors Bourdon, Zacharias, and Walters in addition to Director Mazur and Alternate Director Sorley interfered in the business of Area 'D'. Certainly, they (with the exception of WL City Councillor Sue Zacharias) don't know what Director Bischoff was told by her voters' and consequently, a request from an Electoral Area Director must always be taken at face value.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Local Government Meetings in Cariboo-Chilcotin - Week of Mar 29 - April 2
There are a number of local government meetings going on this upcoming week:
Monday, March 29th - City of Quesnel
Regular Meeting #4 of 2010. Meeting starts at 7:00pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (410 Kinchant Street)
The link to the Agenda is here
Tuesday, March 30th - City of Williams Lake
Meeting in Committee of the Whole. Meeting starts at 5:30pm in Committee Room #1, with an In-Camera Meeting to commence at 6:30pm
The link to the Agenda is here
Monday, March 29th - City of Quesnel
Regular Meeting #4 of 2010. Meeting starts at 7:00pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (410 Kinchant Street)
The link to the Agenda is here
Tuesday, March 30th - City of Williams Lake
Meeting in Committee of the Whole. Meeting starts at 5:30pm in Committee Room #1, with an In-Camera Meeting to commence at 6:30pm
The link to the Agenda is here
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting - March 24th
Present from CRD - Directors Mazur (Co-Chair), Bischoff, Mumford and Area 'F' Alternate Director Joan Sorley
Present from City of WL - Deputy Mayor Rathor and Councillors Bourdon, Walters and Zacharias
Meeting called to order by Co-Chair (Director) Steve Mazur
By Consensus, Minutes of Joint Committee Meetings on February 11th and 25th were adopted
Business:
1) Sanctioning of 2010 Canada Day Celebrations in Boitanio Park with Letter dated March 1, 2010 from Cindy Bouchard, Manager of Legislative Services – City from Williams Lake
Brian Carruthers, City of WL CAO, reviewed Ms. Bouchard’s letter with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
By Consensus – That a $600 Grant-in-Aide be issued and the Grant-in-Aide be funded on a 70 City of WL – 30 CRD split
2) Central Cariboo Recreation – 150 Mile Trails with attached memo from Darron Campbell – CRD Manager of Community Services
Darron Campbell, CRD Manager of Community Services, reviewed his memo with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
By Consensus - that approval-in-principle be given to allocate up to $5000 from the Central Cariboo Recreation Function for the 150 Mile Trail system work
3) Request from Director Bischoff to withdraw Area ‘D’ from the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function
Director Bischoff reviewed her request to pull Area ‘D’ as a service participant in the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function
Discussion ensued thereon
By Consensus - Director Bischoff’s request be denied
4) Joint Committee Report on Move for Health Challenge Day
Geoff Paynton reviewed this report with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
By Consensus - Central Cariboo to challenge North Cariboo
5) Late Item - Taxation of the proposed Prosperity Mine/Revenue Sharing
Brian Carruthers, City of WL CAO, reviewed this item with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
By Consensus - Staff was requested to prepare a discussion paper on Industrial Taxation and Revenue Sharing for Joint Committee’s consideration
6) Late Item - UBCM 2010 Age-Friendly Community Planning and Project Grants Program with attached memo from Alice Johnston, Corporate Officer – Cariboo Regional District
Darron Campbell (CRD Manager of Community Services) reviewed Ms. Johnston’s memo with the Joint Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
By Consensus - Memo was received
Meeting adjourned to reconvene In-Camera
Update #3 to Speakers' List for Prosperity Mine Federal Review Public Hearings'
Wednesday March 24 - Day 3 – Williams Lake
Daytime Session - 10am to 5pm
B.C. Chamber of Commerce (Jon Garson)
Health Canada (Dr. Carl Alleyne, Luc Pelletier)
Natural Resources Canada (Rob Johnstone, Margo Burgess, Kathy McPherson)
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (Adam Silverstein)
Transport Canada (John Mackie, Linda Sullivan)
Mining Watch Canada (Ramsey Hart)
Tsilhqot’in Nation (Chiefs)
Chilko Watershed Roundtable
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Invasive Plant Committee
Archaeology First Nations Field Assistants
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Helen Haig-Brown)
Evening Session - 7pm to 9pm
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs (Grand Chief Stewart Phillip)
Carmen Nunez and Blaine Grinder
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Movie presentation: Blue Gold: The Tsilhqot’in
Fight for Teztan Biny (Fish Lake)
Additional question/answer period for questioning of Taseko Mines Ltd.
Daytime Session - 10am to 5pm
B.C. Chamber of Commerce (Jon Garson)
Health Canada (Dr. Carl Alleyne, Luc Pelletier)
Natural Resources Canada (Rob Johnstone, Margo Burgess, Kathy McPherson)
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (Adam Silverstein)
Transport Canada (John Mackie, Linda Sullivan)
Mining Watch Canada (Ramsey Hart)
Tsilhqot’in Nation (Chiefs)
Chilko Watershed Roundtable
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Invasive Plant Committee
Archaeology First Nations Field Assistants
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Helen Haig-Brown)
Evening Session - 7pm to 9pm
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs (Grand Chief Stewart Phillip)
Carmen Nunez and Blaine Grinder
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Movie presentation: Blue Gold: The Tsilhqot’in
Fight for Teztan Biny (Fish Lake)
Additional question/answer period for questioning of Taseko Mines Ltd.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
WL Council Meeting Highlights - March 23rd, 2010
Present - Mayor Cook with Councillors Rathor, Montoya, Barr, Walters, Bourdon and Zacharias
Staff Present:
Brian Carruthers - CAO
Cindy Bouchard - Manager of Legislative Services
Geoff Goodall - General Manager of Planning & Operations
Darcy Lazzarin - General Manager of Corporate Services (left meeting at 7:55pm)
Tom Chung - IT Manager
Rena Schill - Corporate Services Clerk
Meeting called to order at 7:33pm
Minutes of March 9th Council meeting approved, as amended
Delegations:
Mayor Cook presented “Community Spirit Certificates” to Shaw Cable and Camera Operators at Council Meetings:
• Gil Botelho
• Rick Roy
• Harry Bell
• Bill Gowan
• Karen Soulnier
Business:
1) Council directed Staff to publish in a local newspaper notice of availability of the parcel tax rolls for inspection and the requirements and time frame for lodging complaints/ challenging the rolls, and tentative dates for the Parcel Tax Roll Reviews to be held in Council Chambers, if required, were scheduled as follows:
Water and Sewer --- Wednesday, April 14, 2010 @ 10:00 am
Water and Sewer-South Lakeside --- Wednesday, April 14, 2010 @ 10:15 am
Downtown Parking and Beautification --- Thursday, April 15, 2010 @ 10:00 am
2) Williams Lake Water Works Amendment Bylaw No. 2113 and Sewer Works Management Amendment Bylaw No. 2114 was introduced and given three readings
3) Council approved the donation of City dump trucks to be operated by qualified volunteer union Staff for the purpose of hauling dirt for the 2010 Williams Lake Indoor Rodeo.
* Mayor Cook declared a conflict of interest as her property is in a RR1/A-1 Zone. Acting Mayor Natalie Montoya assumed the Chair
4) Council gave second reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw #2030, 2010 (Text Amendments to A-1 & RR-1 Zones)
* Mayor Cook resumed the Chair
5) Council approved extending the loading zone for buses servicing Marie Sharpe Elementary School to include the west side of Third Avenue North between Cameron Street and Comer Street between the hours of 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
6) A number of Committee of the Whole Recommendations were endorsed including:
• Councillor Walters appointed to the Squaw Hall Community Arts Project Advisory Committee
• Council formally passed a “Wood First Resolution”
• Solid Waste and Recyclables Management Bylaw #2115, 2010 given three readings
• Council declared redundant Council Policies No. 2, 27, 29, 31, 35, 43, 45 and 50
• Council will provide feedback to the Local Government Elections Task Force and suggest the municipal election date be moved forward one month to the third Saturday in October.
• Council nominated Councillor Surinderpal Rathor as a Regional Representative candidate for the Cariboo or Director at Large for the NCLGA (North-Central Local Government Association). The municipalities within the Cariboo Regional District will be advised of this nomination
• Council renamed the skateboard park at Boitanio Park - "Nathan Matthews Memorial Skateboard Park".
7) May 29, 2010 was proclaimed as "The Day of the Honey Bee" in the City of Williams Lake
8) Council authorized a letter of support for the City of Prince George's bid to host the 2015 Canada Winter Games and the Mayor was authorized to sign the letter provided by the City of Prince George
9) Council approved an extension of the covenant to September 1, 2010, subject to Paul Sangha starting substantial physical works on the construction of the Best Western Hotel by this date and that he provide the City with a letter stating that the terms of the covenant extension are understood and agreed to.
10) Council received In-Camera Report #5-2010 for public information (Remedial Action)
Information and Announcements by Council Members:
Mayor and Councillors' made announcments regarding events or issues ongoing in the City
Meeting adjourned at 8:55pm
Staff Present:
Brian Carruthers - CAO
Cindy Bouchard - Manager of Legislative Services
Geoff Goodall - General Manager of Planning & Operations
Darcy Lazzarin - General Manager of Corporate Services (left meeting at 7:55pm)
Tom Chung - IT Manager
Rena Schill - Corporate Services Clerk
Meeting called to order at 7:33pm
Minutes of March 9th Council meeting approved, as amended
Delegations:
Mayor Cook presented “Community Spirit Certificates” to Shaw Cable and Camera Operators at Council Meetings:
• Gil Botelho
• Rick Roy
• Harry Bell
• Bill Gowan
• Karen Soulnier
Business:
1) Council directed Staff to publish in a local newspaper notice of availability of the parcel tax rolls for inspection and the requirements and time frame for lodging complaints/ challenging the rolls, and tentative dates for the Parcel Tax Roll Reviews to be held in Council Chambers, if required, were scheduled as follows:
Water and Sewer --- Wednesday, April 14, 2010 @ 10:00 am
Water and Sewer-South Lakeside --- Wednesday, April 14, 2010 @ 10:15 am
Downtown Parking and Beautification --- Thursday, April 15, 2010 @ 10:00 am
2) Williams Lake Water Works Amendment Bylaw No. 2113 and Sewer Works Management Amendment Bylaw No. 2114 was introduced and given three readings
3) Council approved the donation of City dump trucks to be operated by qualified volunteer union Staff for the purpose of hauling dirt for the 2010 Williams Lake Indoor Rodeo.
* Mayor Cook declared a conflict of interest as her property is in a RR1/A-1 Zone. Acting Mayor Natalie Montoya assumed the Chair
4) Council gave second reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw #2030, 2010 (Text Amendments to A-1 & RR-1 Zones)
* Mayor Cook resumed the Chair
5) Council approved extending the loading zone for buses servicing Marie Sharpe Elementary School to include the west side of Third Avenue North between Cameron Street and Comer Street between the hours of 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM and 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
6) A number of Committee of the Whole Recommendations were endorsed including:
• Councillor Walters appointed to the Squaw Hall Community Arts Project Advisory Committee
• Council formally passed a “Wood First Resolution”
• Solid Waste and Recyclables Management Bylaw #2115, 2010 given three readings
• Council declared redundant Council Policies No. 2, 27, 29, 31, 35, 43, 45 and 50
• Council will provide feedback to the Local Government Elections Task Force and suggest the municipal election date be moved forward one month to the third Saturday in October.
• Council nominated Councillor Surinderpal Rathor as a Regional Representative candidate for the Cariboo or Director at Large for the NCLGA (North-Central Local Government Association). The municipalities within the Cariboo Regional District will be advised of this nomination
• Council renamed the skateboard park at Boitanio Park - "Nathan Matthews Memorial Skateboard Park".
7) May 29, 2010 was proclaimed as "The Day of the Honey Bee" in the City of Williams Lake
8) Council authorized a letter of support for the City of Prince George's bid to host the 2015 Canada Winter Games and the Mayor was authorized to sign the letter provided by the City of Prince George
9) Council approved an extension of the covenant to September 1, 2010, subject to Paul Sangha starting substantial physical works on the construction of the Best Western Hotel by this date and that he provide the City with a letter stating that the terms of the covenant extension are understood and agreed to.
10) Council received In-Camera Report #5-2010 for public information (Remedial Action)
Information and Announcements by Council Members:
Mayor and Councillors' made announcments regarding events or issues ongoing in the City
Meeting adjourned at 8:55pm
Xeni Gwet'in to show "Blue-Gold" video to Federal Review Panel
WL Tribune is reporting that the Federal Review Panel has ruled that Xeni Gwet'in can show its' "Blue-Gold" movie on Wednesday evening at 7pm.
As well and as a consequence of the ruling, the WL and District Chamber of Commerce will also be allowed to show a movie at its' presentation on Thursday
See more here
As well and as a consequence of the ruling, the WL and District Chamber of Commerce will also be allowed to show a movie at its' presentation on Thursday
See more here
Update #2 to Speakers' List for next week's Prosperity Mine Federal Review Public Hearings'
Tuesday March 23 - Day 2- Williams Lake
Daytime Session
City of Williams Lake (Mayor Kerry Cook)
The Williams Lake Construction Association (Kevin Bourdon, Grant Barley, Bonnie
Griffith, Bryan Neufeld)
Mining Association of BC (Pierre Gratton)
Williams Lake Field Naturalists (Fred McMechan)
Tsilhqot’in Nation (Chiefs)
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Roger Williams, Loretta Williams)
Xat'sull First Nation (Thomas Phillips)
Tuesday, March 23rd Evening Session from 7pm - 9pm
Cariboo Chilcotin Conservation Society (Alice Stoddard) [Held-over from Day 1]
Ranchland Honda (David Baye)
Doug Wilson
Russell Samuel Myers Ross
Federico Osorio
Jane Wellburn
Christine Hornby
Great West Equipment (Andrew Thompson)
Carl Dormuth
Robert Loewen
Wednesday March 24 - Day 3 – Williams Lake
Daytime Session - 10am to 5pm
Health Canada (Dr. Carl Alleyne, Luc Pelletier)
Natural Resources Canada (Rob Johnstone, Margo Burgess, Kathy McPherson)
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (Adam Silverstein)
Transport Canada (John Mackie, Linda Sullivan)
B.C. Chamber of Commerce (Jon Garson and John Winters)
Mining Watch Canada (Ramsey Hart)
Tsilhqot’in Nation (Chiefs)
Chilko Watershed Roundtable
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Invasive Plant Committee
Archaeology First Nations Field Assistants
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Helen Haig-Brown)
Wednesday, March 24th Evening Session - 7pm - 9pm
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs (Grand Chief Stewart Phillip)
Carmen Nunez
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Movie presentation: Blue Gold: The Tsilhqot’in
Fight for Teztan Biny (Fish Lake)
Additional period for questioning of Taseko Mines Ltd.
Thursday March 25 - Day 4 – Williams Lake
Daytime Session 10am - 5pm at Room 119 - Pioneer Complex (351 Hodgson Road)
Stephanie Bird
Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce (Susan Redford)
Taseko Lake Outfitters (Siegfried Reuter)
Xeni Gwet’in Cultural Tourism Program
Lorne Doerkson
Pacific Coastal Airlines (Daryl Smith)
Council of Canadians – Williams Lake Chapter (John Dressler)
Tsilhqot’in Nation – Chiefs
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Linda Myers, Maria Myers)
Cecil Grinder
Stuart Kohut
Elli Taylor
Wilderness Committee (Andy Miller)
Richard Kohler
Friday March 26 - Day 5 – 100 Mile House (Valley Room, the Lodge, Highway 97)
Daytime/Evening Sessions - 10am - 5pm & 7pm -9pm
Taseko Mines Ltd. (Brief overview presentation, and questions)
Lower Bridge Creek Water Stewardship Society (Gordon Hoglund)
Yalakom Ecological Society (Karley Zibeau)
Rob Henneker
Dennis Christianson
Saturday March 27 - Day 6 – Alexis Creek (Alexis Creek Community Hall)
Taseko Mines Ltd. (Brief overview presentation, and questions)
The Caribou Regional District (Area 'K' Director Rick Mumford)
Daytime Session
City of Williams Lake (Mayor Kerry Cook)
The Williams Lake Construction Association (Kevin Bourdon, Grant Barley, Bonnie
Griffith, Bryan Neufeld)
Mining Association of BC (Pierre Gratton)
Williams Lake Field Naturalists (Fred McMechan)
Tsilhqot’in Nation (Chiefs)
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Roger Williams, Loretta Williams)
Xat'sull First Nation (Thomas Phillips)
Tuesday, March 23rd Evening Session from 7pm - 9pm
Cariboo Chilcotin Conservation Society (Alice Stoddard) [Held-over from Day 1]
Ranchland Honda (David Baye)
Doug Wilson
Russell Samuel Myers Ross
Federico Osorio
Jane Wellburn
Christine Hornby
Great West Equipment (Andrew Thompson)
Carl Dormuth
Robert Loewen
Wednesday March 24 - Day 3 – Williams Lake
Daytime Session - 10am to 5pm
Health Canada (Dr. Carl Alleyne, Luc Pelletier)
Natural Resources Canada (Rob Johnstone, Margo Burgess, Kathy McPherson)
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (Adam Silverstein)
Transport Canada (John Mackie, Linda Sullivan)
B.C. Chamber of Commerce (Jon Garson and John Winters)
Mining Watch Canada (Ramsey Hart)
Tsilhqot’in Nation (Chiefs)
Chilko Watershed Roundtable
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Invasive Plant Committee
Archaeology First Nations Field Assistants
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Helen Haig-Brown)
Wednesday, March 24th Evening Session - 7pm - 9pm
Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs (Grand Chief Stewart Phillip)
Carmen Nunez
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Movie presentation: Blue Gold: The Tsilhqot’in
Fight for Teztan Biny (Fish Lake)
Additional period for questioning of Taseko Mines Ltd.
Thursday March 25 - Day 4 – Williams Lake
Daytime Session 10am - 5pm at Room 119 - Pioneer Complex (351 Hodgson Road)
Stephanie Bird
Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce (Susan Redford)
Taseko Lake Outfitters (Siegfried Reuter)
Xeni Gwet’in Cultural Tourism Program
Lorne Doerkson
Pacific Coastal Airlines (Daryl Smith)
Council of Canadians – Williams Lake Chapter (John Dressler)
Tsilhqot’in Nation – Chiefs
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Linda Myers, Maria Myers)
Cecil Grinder
Stuart Kohut
Elli Taylor
Wilderness Committee (Andy Miller)
Richard Kohler
Friday March 26 - Day 5 – 100 Mile House (Valley Room, the Lodge, Highway 97)
Daytime/Evening Sessions - 10am - 5pm & 7pm -9pm
Taseko Mines Ltd. (Brief overview presentation, and questions)
Lower Bridge Creek Water Stewardship Society (Gordon Hoglund)
Yalakom Ecological Society (Karley Zibeau)
Rob Henneker
Dennis Christianson
Saturday March 27 - Day 6 – Alexis Creek (Alexis Creek Community Hall)
Taseko Mines Ltd. (Brief overview presentation, and questions)
The Caribou Regional District (Area 'K' Director Rick Mumford)
Monday, March 22, 2010
Breaking News - CRD Area 'F' Director stepping aside and launches 2nd lawsuit against CRD & Prosperity Mine Federal Public Hearings start
WL Tribune reports that the Cariboo Regional District Area 'F' Director Duncan Barnett is stepping aside and allowing his Alternate Director, Joan Sorley, to manage the affairs in Area 'F' pending resolution of Duncan Barnett's 2nd lawsuit against the CRD. More info here
Also - the Prosperity Mine Federal Public Hearings commenced this morning. The Panel will rule on Taseko's motion to prevent the Panel from seeing Xeni Gwet'in's movie: Blue-Gold Tuesday am. More here
Also - the Prosperity Mine Federal Public Hearings commenced this morning. The Panel will rule on Taseko's motion to prevent the Panel from seeing Xeni Gwet'in's movie: Blue-Gold Tuesday am. More here
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Update to Speakers' List for next week's Prosperity Mine Federal Review Public Hearings'
*** I've received an updated list to the delegation (speakers') list at the Federal Review Panel for the proposed Prosperity Mine ***.
Here it is: (Updated as of Saturday at 7:45am)
Monday, March 22 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Taseko Mines Ltd.
Tsilhqot’in National Government - Chiefs
Mandell Pinder – Counsel for the Canoe Creek (Bruce Stadfeld)
University of Victoria – ENVS461 Class (Dr. Karen Hurley & students)
Monday, March 22nd - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Evening Session - 7-9 p.m.
Connie Jones
Josee Galipeau
Mining Suppliers Association of BC (Dave Sharples)
Share the Cariboo-Chilcotin Resources Society (Bill Carruthers)
Cariboo Chevrolet Buick GMC Ltd. (Brian Garland & Tammy Tugnum)
Council of Canadians (Meera Karunananthan and Harjap Grewal)
Cariboo Chilcotin Conservation Society (Alice Stoddard)
Tuesday, March 23 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
City of Williams Lake (Mayor Kerry Cook)
The Williams Lake Construction Association (Kevin Bourdon, Grant Barley, Bonnie Griffith, Bryan Neufeld)
Mining Association of BC (Pierre Gratton)
Williams Lake Field Naturalists (Fred McMechan)
Tsilhqot’in National Government - Chiefs
Tsilhqot’in National Government - (Roger Williams, Loretta Williams)
Xat’sull (Soda Creek) First Nation - (Thomas Phillips)
Tuesday, March 23rd - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Evening Session - 7-9 p.m.
Ranchland Honda (David Baye)
Doug Wilson
Russell Samuel Myers Ross
Federico Osorio
Jane Wellburn
Christine Hornby
Great West Equipment (Andrew Thompson)
Wednesday, March 23 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Health Canada (Dr. Carl Alleyne, Luc Pelletier)
Natural Resources Canada (Rob Johnstone, Margo Burgess, Kathy McPherson)
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (TBD)
Transport Canada (John Mackie, Linda Sullivan)
B.C. Chamber of Commerce (Jon Garson and John Winters)
Mining Watch Canada (Ramsey Hart)
Tsilhqot’in National Government - Chiefs
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Chilko Watershed Roundtable
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Invasive Plant Committee
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Archaeology First Nations Field Assistants
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Helen Haig-Brown)
Wednesday, March 24 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Evening Session - 7-9 p.m.
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Movie presentation: “Blue Gold: The Tsilhqot’in Fight for Teztan Biny (Fish Lake)” Pending: A motion has been received from Taseko Mines Limited, objecting to the showing of the film. The Panel will make its decision on the first day of the hearing after giving the motion due consideration. Please see the Project’s public registry, CEAR document #1791
Thursday, March 25
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. @ Room 119, Pioneer Complex (351 Hodgson Road)
Stephanie Bird
Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce (Susan Redford)
Taseko Lake Outfitters (Siegfried Reuter)
Tsilhqot’in National Government - Xeni Gwet’in Cultural Tourism Program
Williams Lake Tribune (Lorne Doerkson)
Pacific Coastal Airlines (Daryl Smith)
Council of Canadians – Williams Lake Chapter (John Dressler)
Tsilhqot’in National Government - Chiefs
Tsilhqot’in National Government - (Linda Myers, Maria Myers)
Friday, March 26th - Valley Room, the Lodge in 100 Mile House, BC
Daytime Session - 12:00pm to 5:00pm & Evening Session - 7:00pm to 9:00pm
Taseko Mines Ltd. (Brief overview presentation, and questions)
Lower Bridge Creek Water Stewardship Society (Gordon Hoglund)
Yalakom Ecological Society (Karley Zibeau)
Rob Henneker
100 Mile House Mayor Mitch Campsall
Saturday, March 27th - Alexis Creek Community Hall
Daytime Session - 10:00am to 6:00pm
Taseko Mines Ltd. (Brief overview presentation, and questions)
Cariboo Regional District (Area 'K' Director Rick Mumford)
Other Information:
• Doors to the hearing room open at 9 a.m. each day. At this time, late registration will be taken for those that wish to present to the panel in the general sessions (subject to availability).
• Late registration will also be taken at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday for those that wish to present to the panel in the evening session (subject to availability).
• There will be a lunch break at 12 p.m. each day.
• The General Hearing Session Monday begins with opening comments from the Panel Chair and preliminary matters and motions.
• Taseko Mines’ presentation on March 22 is expected to be 60-90 minutes, followed by questions.
Here it is: (Updated as of Saturday at 7:45am)
Monday, March 22 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Taseko Mines Ltd.
Tsilhqot’in National Government - Chiefs
Mandell Pinder – Counsel for the Canoe Creek (Bruce Stadfeld)
University of Victoria – ENVS461 Class (Dr. Karen Hurley & students)
Monday, March 22nd - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Evening Session - 7-9 p.m.
Connie Jones
Josee Galipeau
Mining Suppliers Association of BC (Dave Sharples)
Share the Cariboo-Chilcotin Resources Society (Bill Carruthers)
Cariboo Chevrolet Buick GMC Ltd. (Brian Garland & Tammy Tugnum)
Council of Canadians (Meera Karunananthan and Harjap Grewal)
Cariboo Chilcotin Conservation Society (Alice Stoddard)
Tuesday, March 23 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
City of Williams Lake (Mayor Kerry Cook)
The Williams Lake Construction Association (Kevin Bourdon, Grant Barley, Bonnie Griffith, Bryan Neufeld)
Mining Association of BC (Pierre Gratton)
Williams Lake Field Naturalists (Fred McMechan)
Tsilhqot’in National Government - Chiefs
Tsilhqot’in National Government - (Roger Williams, Loretta Williams)
Xat’sull (Soda Creek) First Nation - (Thomas Phillips)
Tuesday, March 23rd - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Evening Session - 7-9 p.m.
Ranchland Honda (David Baye)
Doug Wilson
Russell Samuel Myers Ross
Federico Osorio
Jane Wellburn
Christine Hornby
Great West Equipment (Andrew Thompson)
Wednesday, March 23 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Health Canada (Dr. Carl Alleyne, Luc Pelletier)
Natural Resources Canada (Rob Johnstone, Margo Burgess, Kathy McPherson)
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (TBD)
Transport Canada (John Mackie, Linda Sullivan)
B.C. Chamber of Commerce (Jon Garson and John Winters)
Mining Watch Canada (Ramsey Hart)
Tsilhqot’in National Government - Chiefs
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Chilko Watershed Roundtable
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Invasive Plant Committee
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Archaeology First Nations Field Assistants
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Helen Haig-Brown)
Wednesday, March 24 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Evening Session - 7-9 p.m.
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Movie presentation: “Blue Gold: The Tsilhqot’in Fight for Teztan Biny (Fish Lake)” Pending: A motion has been received from Taseko Mines Limited, objecting to the showing of the film. The Panel will make its decision on the first day of the hearing after giving the motion due consideration. Please see the Project’s public registry, CEAR document #1791
Thursday, March 25
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. @ Room 119, Pioneer Complex (351 Hodgson Road)
Stephanie Bird
Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce (Susan Redford)
Taseko Lake Outfitters (Siegfried Reuter)
Tsilhqot’in National Government - Xeni Gwet’in Cultural Tourism Program
Williams Lake Tribune (Lorne Doerkson)
Pacific Coastal Airlines (Daryl Smith)
Council of Canadians – Williams Lake Chapter (John Dressler)
Tsilhqot’in National Government - Chiefs
Tsilhqot’in National Government - (Linda Myers, Maria Myers)
Friday, March 26th - Valley Room, the Lodge in 100 Mile House, BC
Daytime Session - 12:00pm to 5:00pm & Evening Session - 7:00pm to 9:00pm
Taseko Mines Ltd. (Brief overview presentation, and questions)
Lower Bridge Creek Water Stewardship Society (Gordon Hoglund)
Yalakom Ecological Society (Karley Zibeau)
Rob Henneker
100 Mile House Mayor Mitch Campsall
Saturday, March 27th - Alexis Creek Community Hall
Daytime Session - 10:00am to 6:00pm
Taseko Mines Ltd. (Brief overview presentation, and questions)
Cariboo Regional District (Area 'K' Director Rick Mumford)
Other Information:
• Doors to the hearing room open at 9 a.m. each day. At this time, late registration will be taken for those that wish to present to the panel in the general sessions (subject to availability).
• Late registration will also be taken at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday for those that wish to present to the panel in the evening session (subject to availability).
• There will be a lunch break at 12 p.m. each day.
• The General Hearing Session Monday begins with opening comments from the Panel Chair and preliminary matters and motions.
• Taseko Mines’ presentation on March 22 is expected to be 60-90 minutes, followed by questions.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Local Government Meetings in Cariboo-Chilcotin - Week of Mar 22-26
A number of local government meetings' are occurring in the Cariboo-Chilcotin this upcoming week:
Monday, March 22 - City of Quesnel
Meeting in Delegation Session/Committee of the Whole then a Special Open Council Meeting
Meeting starts at 7:00pm in Quesnel Council Chambers - 410 Kinchant Street
The link to the Agenda is here
Tuesday, March 23 - City of Williams Lake
Regular Meeting #4 of 2010. Meeting starts at 7:30pm in WL Council Chambers
The link to the Agenda is here
Wednesday, March 24 - Central Cariboo/City of Williams Lake Joint Committee
Meeting starts at 5:00pm in the CRD Boardroom
Agenda:
1) Receipt of Joint Committee Minutes from Feb 11/25th meetings
2) Consideration of Canada Day celebrations in Boitanio Park
3) 150 Mile Trails - Fund from Central Cariboo Recreation Function
4) Request from Area 'D' Director to withdraw Area 'D' from Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function
5) Move for Health Challenge Day
6) Late Items/Other Business
7) Action Page
8) Adjourn
Thursday, March 25th - Board of Education for SD#27
The meeting starts at 7:00pm in the SD#27 Boardroom
The link to the Agenda is here
Friday, March 26th - Cariboo Regional District
Regular Meeting #4 of 2010
Meeting starts at 9:30am in the CRD Boardroom (Suite D - 180 North 3rd Avenue)
The link to the Agenda is here
*** A reminder that the Federal Public Hearings for the proposed Prosperity Mine starts at 10:00am on Monday, March 22nd in the Gibraltar Room at the Cariboo Memorial Complex. Doors open at 9:00am for late registration as delegations.
Come out and show our community's support for the Prosperity Mine project ***
Monday, March 22 - City of Quesnel
Meeting in Delegation Session/Committee of the Whole then a Special Open Council Meeting
Meeting starts at 7:00pm in Quesnel Council Chambers - 410 Kinchant Street
The link to the Agenda is here
Tuesday, March 23 - City of Williams Lake
Regular Meeting #4 of 2010. Meeting starts at 7:30pm in WL Council Chambers
The link to the Agenda is here
Wednesday, March 24 - Central Cariboo/City of Williams Lake Joint Committee
Meeting starts at 5:00pm in the CRD Boardroom
Agenda:
1) Receipt of Joint Committee Minutes from Feb 11/25th meetings
2) Consideration of Canada Day celebrations in Boitanio Park
3) 150 Mile Trails - Fund from Central Cariboo Recreation Function
4) Request from Area 'D' Director to withdraw Area 'D' from Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function
5) Move for Health Challenge Day
6) Late Items/Other Business
7) Action Page
8) Adjourn
Thursday, March 25th - Board of Education for SD#27
The meeting starts at 7:00pm in the SD#27 Boardroom
The link to the Agenda is here
Friday, March 26th - Cariboo Regional District
Regular Meeting #4 of 2010
Meeting starts at 9:30am in the CRD Boardroom (Suite D - 180 North 3rd Avenue)
The link to the Agenda is here
*** A reminder that the Federal Public Hearings for the proposed Prosperity Mine starts at 10:00am on Monday, March 22nd in the Gibraltar Room at the Cariboo Memorial Complex. Doors open at 9:00am for late registration as delegations.
Come out and show our community's support for the Prosperity Mine project ***
Steve Rant - Mar 24th Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting
Later today, I'll be releasing all the important local government meeting dates/times for the upcoming week but I want to discuss one meeting and 1 item on its' Agenda.
On Wednesday, March 24th at 5:00pm in the CRD Boardroom, the Central Cariboo Joint Committee will be meeting. For those who have forgotten or don't know, this is a Joint Committee formed by the membership of Williams Lake City Council and the CRD Directors for Areas D, E, F, J and K. They typically meet to discuss items that are of a sub-regional nature and this Committee typically meets once a month unless an item or items come up requiring a Special Meeting
One of the items on the Joint Committee's March 24th Agenda is a request from Area 'D' Director Deb Bischoff requesting that Electoral Area 'D' no longer be a member of the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function.
As background, the Function was established in late November of 2008 after receiving consent, via AAP (Alternate Approval Process), from voters in Electoral Areas D, E, F and the City of Williams Lake
In 2009, discussions took place in the community around how to move forward with this Function, culminating with the Service Delivery Plan in September of 2009. However, Director Bischoff and her Alternate, John Andrews asked the Joint Committee to slow down the process for a year to ensure it was being done appropriately. Their requests were turned down by the Joint Committee, thus Director Bischoff's request to pull Area 'D' out of the Arts & Culture Function is now here
On January 30th, 2010 - Director Bischoff held her Town Hall meeting with her area residents' to discuss the CRD's 2010 Budget. One of the topics of discussion was the Arts and Culture Function and why First Nations are being allowed to apply for funding from this Function, but they are not required to pay into the Function.
The process to pull Area 'D' out of the Arts & Culture Function is that 2 of either:
i) Electoral Areas 'E' or 'F'
ii) City of Williams Lake
consent to Area 'D' withdrawing out of the Function. Director Bischoff has or will be making that formal request to Directors Mazur, Barnett and (Mayor) Cook over the next few days.
Should Director Bischoff not get consent from 2 of Directors' Mazur, Barnett or Cook, then that would be extremely unfortunate as this situation was completely unnecessary.
Had the Joint Committee consented to the request of Director Bischoff and her Alternate to take 1 additional year to work with all stakeholders' to make the Arts and Culture Function the very best it can be, then her request to withdraw Area 'D' from the Arts & Culture Function would not have reached the Joint Committee table. With the CRD Budget set to be formally adopted on Friday, March 26th, the requisition for the local Arts & Culture Function could possibly change (based upon what the Joint Committee does with Director Bischoff's request) and it could require taxpayers' in Electoral Areas E, F and the City of Williams Lake to pay more to maintain the 2010 Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function's Budget
The discussion around the Joint Committee table on the subject of Area 'D' withdrawing from the Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Function will be interesting to follow on March 24th
On Wednesday, March 24th at 5:00pm in the CRD Boardroom, the Central Cariboo Joint Committee will be meeting. For those who have forgotten or don't know, this is a Joint Committee formed by the membership of Williams Lake City Council and the CRD Directors for Areas D, E, F, J and K. They typically meet to discuss items that are of a sub-regional nature and this Committee typically meets once a month unless an item or items come up requiring a Special Meeting
One of the items on the Joint Committee's March 24th Agenda is a request from Area 'D' Director Deb Bischoff requesting that Electoral Area 'D' no longer be a member of the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function.
As background, the Function was established in late November of 2008 after receiving consent, via AAP (Alternate Approval Process), from voters in Electoral Areas D, E, F and the City of Williams Lake
In 2009, discussions took place in the community around how to move forward with this Function, culminating with the Service Delivery Plan in September of 2009. However, Director Bischoff and her Alternate, John Andrews asked the Joint Committee to slow down the process for a year to ensure it was being done appropriately. Their requests were turned down by the Joint Committee, thus Director Bischoff's request to pull Area 'D' out of the Arts & Culture Function is now here
On January 30th, 2010 - Director Bischoff held her Town Hall meeting with her area residents' to discuss the CRD's 2010 Budget. One of the topics of discussion was the Arts and Culture Function and why First Nations are being allowed to apply for funding from this Function, but they are not required to pay into the Function.
The process to pull Area 'D' out of the Arts & Culture Function is that 2 of either:
i) Electoral Areas 'E' or 'F'
ii) City of Williams Lake
consent to Area 'D' withdrawing out of the Function. Director Bischoff has or will be making that formal request to Directors Mazur, Barnett and (Mayor) Cook over the next few days.
Should Director Bischoff not get consent from 2 of Directors' Mazur, Barnett or Cook, then that would be extremely unfortunate as this situation was completely unnecessary.
Had the Joint Committee consented to the request of Director Bischoff and her Alternate to take 1 additional year to work with all stakeholders' to make the Arts and Culture Function the very best it can be, then her request to withdraw Area 'D' from the Arts & Culture Function would not have reached the Joint Committee table. With the CRD Budget set to be formally adopted on Friday, March 26th, the requisition for the local Arts & Culture Function could possibly change (based upon what the Joint Committee does with Director Bischoff's request) and it could require taxpayers' in Electoral Areas E, F and the City of Williams Lake to pay more to maintain the 2010 Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function's Budget
The discussion around the Joint Committee table on the subject of Area 'D' withdrawing from the Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Function will be interesting to follow on March 24th
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Speakers' List for next week's Prosperity Mine Federal Review Public Hearings'
On Monday, the Federal Review Panel for the proposed Prosperity Mine begins its' General Hearing Sessions starting in the Gibraltar Room at 10:00am. Find below the speakers' list at all General Hearing Sessions:
Monday, March 22 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Taseko Mines Ltd.
Tsilhqot’in Nation Chief (TBD)
Mandell Pinder – Counsel for the Canoe Creek (Bruce Stadfeld)
University of Victoria – ENVS461 Class (Dr. Karen Hurley & students)
Monday, March 22nd - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Evening Session - 7-9 p.m.
Dan Colgate
Connie Jones
Josee Galipeau
Mining Suppliers Association of BC (Dave Sharples)
Share the Cariboo-Chilcotin Resources Society (Bill Carruthers)
Cariboo Chevrolet Buick GMC Ltd. (Brian Garland & Tammy Tugnum)
Council of Canadians (Meera Karunananthan and Harjap Grewal)
Cariboo Chilcotin Conservation Society (Alice Stoddard)
Tuesday, March 23 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
City of Williams Lake (Mayor Kerry Cook)
The Williams Lake Construction Association (Kevin Bourdon, Grant Barley, Bonnie Griffith, Bryan Neufeld)
Williams Lake Field Naturalists (Fred McMechan)
Tsilhqot’in Nation Chief (TBD)
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Roger Williams, Loretta Williams)
Xat’sull First Nation (Thomas Phillips)
Tuesday, March 23rd - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Evening Session - 7-9 p.m.
Doug Wilson
Russell Samuel Myers Ross
Federico Osorio
Jane Wellburn
Herb Nakada
Christine Hornby
Wednesday, March 23 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Health Canada (Dr. Carl Alleyne, Luc Pelletier)
Natural Resources Canada (Rob Johnstone, Margo Burgess, Kathy McPherson)
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (TBD)
Mining Watch Canada (Ramsey Hart)
Mining Association of BC (Pierre Gratton)
Tsilhqot’in Nation Chief (TBD)
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Chilko Watershed Roundtable
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Invasive Plant Committee
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Archaeology First Nations Field Assistants
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Helen Haig-Brown)
Wednesday, March 24 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Evening Session - 7-9 p.m.
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Movie presentation: “Blue Gold: The Tsilhqot’in Fight for Teztan Biny (Fish Lake)” Pending: A motion has been received from Taseko Mines Limited, objecting to the showing of the film. The Panel will make its decision on the first day of the hearing after giving the motion due consideration. Please see the Project’s public registry, CEAR document #1791
Thursday, March 25
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. @ Room 119, Pioneer Complex (351 Hodgson Road)
Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce
Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA) of BC
Taseko Lake Outfitters (Siegfried Reuter)
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Xeni Gwet’in Cultural Tourism Program
Lorne Doerkson
Great West Equipment (Andrew Thompson)
Ranchland Honda (David Baye)
Pacific Coast Airlines (Shawn Warneboldt)
Tsilhqot’in Nation Chief (TBD)
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Linda Myers, Maria Myers)
Friday, March 26th - Valley Room, the Lodge in 100 Mile House, BC
Daytime Session - 12:00pm to 5:00pm & Evening Session - 7:00pm to 9:00pm
Taseko Mines Ltd. (Brief overview presentation, and questions)
Lower Bridge Creek Water Stewardship Society (Gordon Hoglund)
Yalakom Ecological Society (Karley Zibeau)
Rob Henneker
Saturday, March 27th - Alexis Creek Community Hall
Daytime Session - 10:00am to 6:00pm
Taseko Mines Ltd. (Brief overview presentation, and questions)
The Cariboo Regional District (Area 'K' Director Rick Mumford)
Notes
• Doors to the hearing room (the Gibraltar Room) open at 9 a.m. each day. At this time, late registration will be taken for those that wish to present to the panel in the general sessions (subject to availability).
• Late registration will also be taken at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday for those that wish to present to the panel in the evening session (subject to availability).
• There will be a lunch break at 12 p.m. each day.
• The General Hearing Session Monday begins with opening comments from the Panel Chair and preliminary matters and motions.
• Taseko Mines’ presentation on March 22 is expected to be 60-90 minutes, followed by questions.
Monday, March 22 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Taseko Mines Ltd.
Tsilhqot’in Nation Chief (TBD)
Mandell Pinder – Counsel for the Canoe Creek (Bruce Stadfeld)
University of Victoria – ENVS461 Class (Dr. Karen Hurley & students)
Monday, March 22nd - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Evening Session - 7-9 p.m.
Dan Colgate
Connie Jones
Josee Galipeau
Mining Suppliers Association of BC (Dave Sharples)
Share the Cariboo-Chilcotin Resources Society (Bill Carruthers)
Cariboo Chevrolet Buick GMC Ltd. (Brian Garland & Tammy Tugnum)
Council of Canadians (Meera Karunananthan and Harjap Grewal)
Cariboo Chilcotin Conservation Society (Alice Stoddard)
Tuesday, March 23 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
City of Williams Lake (Mayor Kerry Cook)
The Williams Lake Construction Association (Kevin Bourdon, Grant Barley, Bonnie Griffith, Bryan Neufeld)
Williams Lake Field Naturalists (Fred McMechan)
Tsilhqot’in Nation Chief (TBD)
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Roger Williams, Loretta Williams)
Xat’sull First Nation (Thomas Phillips)
Tuesday, March 23rd - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Evening Session - 7-9 p.m.
Doug Wilson
Russell Samuel Myers Ross
Federico Osorio
Jane Wellburn
Herb Nakada
Christine Hornby
Wednesday, March 23 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Health Canada (Dr. Carl Alleyne, Luc Pelletier)
Natural Resources Canada (Rob Johnstone, Margo Burgess, Kathy McPherson)
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (TBD)
Mining Watch Canada (Ramsey Hart)
Mining Association of BC (Pierre Gratton)
Tsilhqot’in Nation Chief (TBD)
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Chilko Watershed Roundtable
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Invasive Plant Committee
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Archaeology First Nations Field Assistants
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Helen Haig-Brown)
Wednesday, March 24 - Gibraltar Room, Cariboo Memorial Complex
Evening Session - 7-9 p.m.
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Movie presentation: “Blue Gold: The Tsilhqot’in Fight for Teztan Biny (Fish Lake)” Pending: A motion has been received from Taseko Mines Limited, objecting to the showing of the film. The Panel will make its decision on the first day of the hearing after giving the motion due consideration. Please see the Project’s public registry, CEAR document #1791
Thursday, March 25
Daytime Session - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. @ Room 119, Pioneer Complex (351 Hodgson Road)
Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce
Independent Contractors and Businesses Association (ICBA) of BC
Taseko Lake Outfitters (Siegfried Reuter)
Tsilhqot’in National Government – Xeni Gwet’in Cultural Tourism Program
Lorne Doerkson
Great West Equipment (Andrew Thompson)
Ranchland Honda (David Baye)
Pacific Coast Airlines (Shawn Warneboldt)
Tsilhqot’in Nation Chief (TBD)
Tsilhqot’in National Government (Linda Myers, Maria Myers)
Friday, March 26th - Valley Room, the Lodge in 100 Mile House, BC
Daytime Session - 12:00pm to 5:00pm & Evening Session - 7:00pm to 9:00pm
Taseko Mines Ltd. (Brief overview presentation, and questions)
Lower Bridge Creek Water Stewardship Society (Gordon Hoglund)
Yalakom Ecological Society (Karley Zibeau)
Rob Henneker
Saturday, March 27th - Alexis Creek Community Hall
Daytime Session - 10:00am to 6:00pm
Taseko Mines Ltd. (Brief overview presentation, and questions)
The Cariboo Regional District (Area 'K' Director Rick Mumford)
Notes
• Doors to the hearing room (the Gibraltar Room) open at 9 a.m. each day. At this time, late registration will be taken for those that wish to present to the panel in the general sessions (subject to availability).
• Late registration will also be taken at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday for those that wish to present to the panel in the evening session (subject to availability).
• There will be a lunch break at 12 p.m. each day.
• The General Hearing Session Monday begins with opening comments from the Panel Chair and preliminary matters and motions.
• Taseko Mines’ presentation on March 22 is expected to be 60-90 minutes, followed by questions.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Steve Rant - Outcome of March 16th Committee of Whole Council Meeting
WL Council, meeting in a Committee of the Whole, had a good meeting including:
* Adopting a Wood First Resolution
* Recommend 1st, 2nd and 3rd Reading of a new Solid Waste Bylaw
* Recommend that the skateboard park at Boitanio Park be considered for renaming to Nathan Matthews Skateboard Park
With regard to Bylaw 2115 (Solid Waste and Recyclables) which will give Council permission to charge fees and give Staff certain powers with regard to the Solid Waste Collection system in the City.
I was disappointed that Council gave City Staff the power to charge Secondary Suites a $10.00 per month fee for use of the Solid Waste Collection service, in addition to charging a $65.00 per bin fee to the property owner (for their secondary suite's garbage/recycling needs) because I think that Council is taking the issue of "Secondary Suites" and doing piecemeal planning to it. If we are going to deal with Secondary Suites in the City, let's look at the issue from a holistic point of view and decide how Secondary Suites will be dealt with from a Zoning & Official Community Plan point of view and to which city services that individuals, who rent a secondary suite, will be required to pay for (ie - garbage, water/sewer, etc)
That will get the community further ahead on the issue of both secondary suites and affordable housing, rather than looking at it from a issue-to-issue perspective
* Adopting a Wood First Resolution
* Recommend 1st, 2nd and 3rd Reading of a new Solid Waste Bylaw
* Recommend that the skateboard park at Boitanio Park be considered for renaming to Nathan Matthews Skateboard Park
With regard to Bylaw 2115 (Solid Waste and Recyclables) which will give Council permission to charge fees and give Staff certain powers with regard to the Solid Waste Collection system in the City.
I was disappointed that Council gave City Staff the power to charge Secondary Suites a $10.00 per month fee for use of the Solid Waste Collection service, in addition to charging a $65.00 per bin fee to the property owner (for their secondary suite's garbage/recycling needs) because I think that Council is taking the issue of "Secondary Suites" and doing piecemeal planning to it. If we are going to deal with Secondary Suites in the City, let's look at the issue from a holistic point of view and decide how Secondary Suites will be dealt with from a Zoning & Official Community Plan point of view and to which city services that individuals, who rent a secondary suite, will be required to pay for (ie - garbage, water/sewer, etc)
That will get the community further ahead on the issue of both secondary suites and affordable housing, rather than looking at it from a issue-to-issue perspective
Taseko formally protests viewing of Xeni Gwet'in Movie - "Blue-Gold" at General Sessions for Federal Environmental Review Panel, Prosperity Mine
This morning, I've received a email from the Secretariat of the Federal Review Panel for Prosperity Mine giving notice that Taseko Mines objects to the Panel viewing "Blue Gold" at the General Sessions of the Review Panel on various grounds including:
* It's a propaganda film
* Wouldn't be accepted as evidence in court
* Wouldn't be good use of panel's time
* Noted that Xeni Gwet'in can show film during "Community Sessions" when the Panel is at Xeni Gwet'in
All individuals who filed written briefs, like myself, or who are orally presenting to the Panel have until Friday, March 19th to file supportive briefs or objecting briefs to Taseko's motion at Prosperity.Review@ceaa-acee.gc.ca
In addition, the Panel Chair indicates that the motion will get due consideration at the Panel's first day of the General Session on March 22nd at which time the Panel will hear oral submissions on Taseko's motion of objection
I see that the Panel's first day in the Cariboo-Chilcotin on a project that will have both economic and socio-economic benefits to the region will be an interesting one
* It's a propaganda film
* Wouldn't be accepted as evidence in court
* Wouldn't be good use of panel's time
* Noted that Xeni Gwet'in can show film during "Community Sessions" when the Panel is at Xeni Gwet'in
All individuals who filed written briefs, like myself, or who are orally presenting to the Panel have until Friday, March 19th to file supportive briefs or objecting briefs to Taseko's motion at Prosperity.Review@ceaa-acee.gc.ca
In addition, the Panel Chair indicates that the motion will get due consideration at the Panel's first day of the General Session on March 22nd at which time the Panel will hear oral submissions on Taseko's motion of objection
I see that the Panel's first day in the Cariboo-Chilcotin on a project that will have both economic and socio-economic benefits to the region will be an interesting one
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Committee of the Whole (WL Council) Highlights - March 16, 2010
Present:
Mayor Cook, Deputy Mayor Rathor and Councillors Montoya, Zacharias Barr, and Walters
Absent:
Councillor Geoff Bourdon
Staff Present:
Brian Carruthers – CAO (left meeting at 6:28pm and returned at 6:49pm)
Cindy Bouchard – Manager of Legislative Services
Brad McRae – Senior Bylaw Officer (entered meeting at 6:55pm)
Meeting called to order at 6:30pm
Minutes of March 2nd, 2010 COW Meeting adopted
Delegations:
1) Tracey Elkins re Appointment of Council Member to Squaw Hall Community Arts Project Advisory Committee
• Training for aboriginal youth to start on April 10th, with training to focus on making of videos and arts with youth to videotape their own stories
• Looking for WL City Council member to sit on this advisory committee, with 7 members already serving on the advisory committee
• Project will be completed by July of 2011
A Question and Answer Period ensued with Ms. Elkins
Mayor Cook, on behalf on the Committee, thanked Ms. Elkins for her presentation
The Committee recommended to Council:
Councillor Laurie Walters be appointed to the Squaw Hall Community Arts Advisory Committee
2) Harold Stolar – Acting District Manager of Central Cariboo Forest District regarding Wood First Program Presentation
• October 2009 – Wood First Act passed by provincial Legislature
• Finland, France and New Zealand has “Wood First” policies and BC is the 1st North American jurisdiction to have a “Wood First” policy
• The Act is intended to promote a “culture of wood”
• Central Interior of BC very dependent on wood industry with areas like Kootenay, Northwest and Southwest BC less dependent on the wood industry
• Wood is very environmentally friendly as it has the least impact on the environment according to a study conducted by the Athena Institute
• Every 1 tonne of wood used in construction saves 5.7 tonnes of carbon dioxide from being released
• Municipal projects that receive provincial funding (unconditional support) must comply with the terms of the Wood First Act including school districts and health authorities
• Wood Buildings demonstrated to last longer than Steel or Concrete Buildings, according to a Athena Institute study
• More info on Wood First initiative can be obtained at http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/mof/woodfirst
A Question and Answer period ensued with Mr. Stolar
Mayor Cook, on behalf of the Committee, thanked Mr. Stolar for his informative presentation
Business:
1) Wood First Act – Report & Analysis
The Senior Bylaw Officer & CAO reviewed this item with the Committee
The Committee recommended to Council:
THAT Council endorse a “Wood First Resolution” in the form passed by the City of Prince George
2) Solid Waste & Recyclables Management Bylaw No. 2115
The CAO and Senior Bylaw Officer reviewed this item with the Committee
The Committee recommended to Council:
That Council introduce and give three readings to Management of Solid Waste and Recyclables Bylaw No. 2115
3) Twinning of Sanitary Sewer Force Main in the Williams Creek Valley - Contract Award
The Committee recommended to Council:
That Council award the contract for engineering assessment and design services for the first phase of the Sanitary Sewer Force Main Twinning, located in the Williams Lake Creek Valley, to TRUE Consulting Group in the amount of $72,000.
4) Deletion of Redundant Policies
The CAO reviewed his report with the Committee
The Committee recommended to Council:
That Council declare redundant Council Policies #2, 27, 29, 31, 35, 43, 45 and 50 as identified by the Chief Administrative Officer.
5) Election Task Force Discussion Papers - CAO Update from March 12, 2010 UBCM Consultation Workshop
The CAO reviewed with the Committee what was discussed at this workshop including discussion on campaign financing, election cycles, length of office, role of Chief Electoral Officer of BC in local government elections, timing of local government elections, restoration of corporate vote and enforcement of local government election law
The Committee recommended to Council:
That Staff be directed to provide input to the Election Task Force on having a local government general election in October as opposed to November, in the year of a local government general election
6) NCLGA Call for Nominations for 2010-2011 Executive – Committee of Whole Discussion
• Discuss with CRD, Quesnel and 100 Mile House that WL Council’s nominee is Councillor Rathor with Councillor Barr as alternate
7) Naming Request for Skate Board Park in Boitanio Park - "Nathan Matthews Memorial Skate Board Park
The Committee recommended to Council:
That City Council consider renaming the skateboard park within Boitanio Park the “Nathan Matthews Memorial Skate Board Park, subject to authorization by Mr. Matthews’s family.”
Meeting adjourned at 8:28pm
Mayor Cook, Deputy Mayor Rathor and Councillors Montoya, Zacharias Barr, and Walters
Absent:
Councillor Geoff Bourdon
Staff Present:
Brian Carruthers – CAO (left meeting at 6:28pm and returned at 6:49pm)
Cindy Bouchard – Manager of Legislative Services
Brad McRae – Senior Bylaw Officer (entered meeting at 6:55pm)
Meeting called to order at 6:30pm
Minutes of March 2nd, 2010 COW Meeting adopted
Delegations:
1) Tracey Elkins re Appointment of Council Member to Squaw Hall Community Arts Project Advisory Committee
• Training for aboriginal youth to start on April 10th, with training to focus on making of videos and arts with youth to videotape their own stories
• Looking for WL City Council member to sit on this advisory committee, with 7 members already serving on the advisory committee
• Project will be completed by July of 2011
A Question and Answer Period ensued with Ms. Elkins
Mayor Cook, on behalf on the Committee, thanked Ms. Elkins for her presentation
The Committee recommended to Council:
Councillor Laurie Walters be appointed to the Squaw Hall Community Arts Advisory Committee
2) Harold Stolar – Acting District Manager of Central Cariboo Forest District regarding Wood First Program Presentation
• October 2009 – Wood First Act passed by provincial Legislature
• Finland, France and New Zealand has “Wood First” policies and BC is the 1st North American jurisdiction to have a “Wood First” policy
• The Act is intended to promote a “culture of wood”
• Central Interior of BC very dependent on wood industry with areas like Kootenay, Northwest and Southwest BC less dependent on the wood industry
• Wood is very environmentally friendly as it has the least impact on the environment according to a study conducted by the Athena Institute
• Every 1 tonne of wood used in construction saves 5.7 tonnes of carbon dioxide from being released
• Municipal projects that receive provincial funding (unconditional support) must comply with the terms of the Wood First Act including school districts and health authorities
• Wood Buildings demonstrated to last longer than Steel or Concrete Buildings, according to a Athena Institute study
• More info on Wood First initiative can be obtained at http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/mof/woodfirst
A Question and Answer period ensued with Mr. Stolar
Mayor Cook, on behalf of the Committee, thanked Mr. Stolar for his informative presentation
Business:
1) Wood First Act – Report & Analysis
The Senior Bylaw Officer & CAO reviewed this item with the Committee
The Committee recommended to Council:
THAT Council endorse a “Wood First Resolution” in the form passed by the City of Prince George
2) Solid Waste & Recyclables Management Bylaw No. 2115
The CAO and Senior Bylaw Officer reviewed this item with the Committee
The Committee recommended to Council:
That Council introduce and give three readings to Management of Solid Waste and Recyclables Bylaw No. 2115
3) Twinning of Sanitary Sewer Force Main in the Williams Creek Valley - Contract Award
The Committee recommended to Council:
That Council award the contract for engineering assessment and design services for the first phase of the Sanitary Sewer Force Main Twinning, located in the Williams Lake Creek Valley, to TRUE Consulting Group in the amount of $72,000.
4) Deletion of Redundant Policies
The CAO reviewed his report with the Committee
The Committee recommended to Council:
That Council declare redundant Council Policies #2, 27, 29, 31, 35, 43, 45 and 50 as identified by the Chief Administrative Officer.
5) Election Task Force Discussion Papers - CAO Update from March 12, 2010 UBCM Consultation Workshop
The CAO reviewed with the Committee what was discussed at this workshop including discussion on campaign financing, election cycles, length of office, role of Chief Electoral Officer of BC in local government elections, timing of local government elections, restoration of corporate vote and enforcement of local government election law
The Committee recommended to Council:
That Staff be directed to provide input to the Election Task Force on having a local government general election in October as opposed to November, in the year of a local government general election
6) NCLGA Call for Nominations for 2010-2011 Executive – Committee of Whole Discussion
• Discuss with CRD, Quesnel and 100 Mile House that WL Council’s nominee is Councillor Rathor with Councillor Barr as alternate
7) Naming Request for Skate Board Park in Boitanio Park - "Nathan Matthews Memorial Skate Board Park
The Committee recommended to Council:
That City Council consider renaming the skateboard park within Boitanio Park the “Nathan Matthews Memorial Skate Board Park, subject to authorization by Mr. Matthews’s family.”
Meeting adjourned at 8:28pm
Friday, March 12, 2010
Local Government Meetings in Cariboo-Chilcotin - Week of Mar 15-19
There is only 1 meeting of local government in the Cariboo-Chilcotin this week:
Tuesday, March 16th - City of Williams Lake
Meets in Committee of the Whole
Agenda Items:
1) 2 Delegations
a - Tracey Elkins re Appointment of Council Member to Squaw Hall Community Arts Project Advisory Committee
b - Harold Stolar (Acting District Manager - Central Cariboo Forest District) re: Wood First Program Presentation
2) Wood First Act - Report from Senior Bylaw Officer
3) Solid Waste & Recyclables Management Bylaw No. 2115
4) Twinning of Sanitary Sewer Force Main in the Williams Creek Valley - Contract Award
5) Deletion of Redundant City Policies
6) Election Task Force Discussion Papers - CAO Update from March 12, 2010 UBCM Consultation Workshop
7) NCLGA Call for Nominations for 2010-2011 Executive - Council Discussion
8) Naming Request for Skate Board Park in Boitanio Park - "Nathan Matthews Memorial Skate Board Park"
You can get all the reports here
Tuesday, March 16th - City of Williams Lake
Meets in Committee of the Whole
Agenda Items:
1) 2 Delegations
a - Tracey Elkins re Appointment of Council Member to Squaw Hall Community Arts Project Advisory Committee
b - Harold Stolar (Acting District Manager - Central Cariboo Forest District) re: Wood First Program Presentation
2) Wood First Act - Report from Senior Bylaw Officer
3) Solid Waste & Recyclables Management Bylaw No. 2115
4) Twinning of Sanitary Sewer Force Main in the Williams Creek Valley - Contract Award
5) Deletion of Redundant City Policies
6) Election Task Force Discussion Papers - CAO Update from March 12, 2010 UBCM Consultation Workshop
7) NCLGA Call for Nominations for 2010-2011 Executive - Council Discussion
8) Naming Request for Skate Board Park in Boitanio Park - "Nathan Matthews Memorial Skate Board Park"
You can get all the reports here
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Steve Rant - Wood First Resolution & City of WL
As I feared last night, Council did not consider a Wood First Resolution at its' meeting last night, contrary to a motion passed at the Feb 2nd, 2010 Committee of the Whole. I'm not sure what the hold-up is however Mayor Cook openly declared that the Wood First initiative would be the subject of further discussions at the March 16, 2010 Committee of the Whole meeting with staff from the Central Cariboo Forest District attending to discuss the "Wood First" initiative of the Province of BC.
I really hope that Council gets its' act together on this subject, otherwise we risk looking like fools compared to other local governments who are jumping on the "Wood First" bandwagon and being praised by the Province of BC and that praise usually brings with it certain taxpayer goodies
I really hope that Council gets its' act together on this subject, otherwise we risk looking like fools compared to other local governments who are jumping on the "Wood First" bandwagon and being praised by the Province of BC and that praise usually brings with it certain taxpayer goodies
Steve Rant - Outcome of March 9th WL Council Meeting
Two issues came out of the March 9th WL Council Meeting that I'd like to discuss today:
1) Conflict of Interest - Mayor Cook
From time to time, Mayor Cook has had the need to declare a conflict of interest on matters before Council. However, she doesn't always state the reasons why. Let's look at what the Community Charter says on this subject:
Section 100 (2) of the Community Charter says:
(2) If a council member attending a meeting considers that he or she is not entitled to participate in the discussion of a matter, or to vote on a question in respect of a matter, because the member has
(a) a direct or indirect pecuniary interest in the matter, or
(b) another interest in the matter that constitutes a conflict of interest,
the member must declare this and state in general terms the reason why the member considers this to be the case.
I openly challenge Mayor Cook to remember this and practice this each and every time she has to declare a conflict of interest on any matter before Council
2) Williams Lake Council Motions
At the Feb 2nd, 2010 Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following motion was passed with Councillor Rathor opposed:
The report of Councillor Rathor dated January 27, 2010 regarding a Wood First Resolution be received and referred back to the Development and Public Works Portfolio for cost implications and further investigation; and further, a report be brought back to Council at the March 9, 2010 Regular Council Meeting.
CARRIED
As Councillor Rathor rightly pointed out last night, if Council is not prepared to adhere to its' motions, especially directives to both Staff/Portfolio then those motions became meaningless.
However, this is not the first time that directives of Council have not been adhered to. At the inaugural meeting of WL Council for the 2008-2011 term, the following motion was passed pertaining to Councillor Rathor's new title of Deputy Mayor:
Moved by Councillor Barr
Seconded by Councillor Zacharias:
That pursuant to the report of the Chief Administrative Officer dated November 20, 2008 and Sections 130 (1) and 130 (2) of the Community Charter, respectively, Councillor Rathor be appointed Deputy Mayor and the following Councillors be designated Acting Mayors for the 2009 calendar year:
January - Councillor Barr
February - Councillor Bourdon
March - Councillor Montoya
April - Councillor Walters
May - Councillor Zacharias
June - Councillor Barr
July - Councillor Bourdon
August - Councillor Montoya
September - Councillor Walters
October - Councillor Zacharias
November - Councillor Barr
December - Councillor Bourdon
and further, Staff be directed to make the necessary amendments to the City of Williams Lake Procedure Bylaw to reflect this change.
CARRIED
This motion has never been officially carried out. The above motion was passed on December 2nd, 2008 and today is March 10th, 2010.
So I really would encourage the Council of Williams Lake that when you pass motions, stick to them otherwise don't pass them if you don't intend to carry them out
1) Conflict of Interest - Mayor Cook
From time to time, Mayor Cook has had the need to declare a conflict of interest on matters before Council. However, she doesn't always state the reasons why. Let's look at what the Community Charter says on this subject:
Section 100 (2) of the Community Charter says:
(2) If a council member attending a meeting considers that he or she is not entitled to participate in the discussion of a matter, or to vote on a question in respect of a matter, because the member has
(a) a direct or indirect pecuniary interest in the matter, or
(b) another interest in the matter that constitutes a conflict of interest,
the member must declare this and state in general terms the reason why the member considers this to be the case.
I openly challenge Mayor Cook to remember this and practice this each and every time she has to declare a conflict of interest on any matter before Council
2) Williams Lake Council Motions
At the Feb 2nd, 2010 Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following motion was passed with Councillor Rathor opposed:
The report of Councillor Rathor dated January 27, 2010 regarding a Wood First Resolution be received and referred back to the Development and Public Works Portfolio for cost implications and further investigation; and further, a report be brought back to Council at the March 9, 2010 Regular Council Meeting.
CARRIED
As Councillor Rathor rightly pointed out last night, if Council is not prepared to adhere to its' motions, especially directives to both Staff/Portfolio then those motions became meaningless.
However, this is not the first time that directives of Council have not been adhered to. At the inaugural meeting of WL Council for the 2008-2011 term, the following motion was passed pertaining to Councillor Rathor's new title of Deputy Mayor:
Moved by Councillor Barr
Seconded by Councillor Zacharias:
That pursuant to the report of the Chief Administrative Officer dated November 20, 2008 and Sections 130 (1) and 130 (2) of the Community Charter, respectively, Councillor Rathor be appointed Deputy Mayor and the following Councillors be designated Acting Mayors for the 2009 calendar year:
January - Councillor Barr
February - Councillor Bourdon
March - Councillor Montoya
April - Councillor Walters
May - Councillor Zacharias
June - Councillor Barr
July - Councillor Bourdon
August - Councillor Montoya
September - Councillor Walters
October - Councillor Zacharias
November - Councillor Barr
December - Councillor Bourdon
and further, Staff be directed to make the necessary amendments to the City of Williams Lake Procedure Bylaw to reflect this change.
CARRIED
This motion has never been officially carried out. The above motion was passed on December 2nd, 2008 and today is March 10th, 2010.
So I really would encourage the Council of Williams Lake that when you pass motions, stick to them otherwise don't pass them if you don't intend to carry them out
WL Council Meeting Highlights - March 9th, 2010
Present: Mayor Cook and Councillors' Rathor, Montoya, Barr, Walters, Bourdon and Zacharias
Staff: G. Goodall, Acting CAO
C. Bouchard, Manager of Legislative Services
T. Chung, IT Manager
R. Schill, Corporate Services Clerk
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Meeting called to order at 7:30pm
Minutes of February 23, 2010 Council Meeting approved
Delegations:
1) Jeannine McCormack from the Baker Creek Enhancement Society presented information on the 2009 Cariboo Woodstove Exchange Program
Business:
1) Council approved travel for the Chief Administrative Officer and one member of Council to attend the 73rd Annual Federation of Canadian Municipalities Conference being held May 28 to 31, 2010 in Toronto, Ontario
Councillor Rathor was opposed
Mayor Cook declared a conflict of interest on the next item and left Council Chambers. Acting Mayor Natalie Montoya assumed the Chair
2) Council authorized contributing $500 to the Williams Lake Stampeders Hockey Club to help with their travel costs for the 2010 Coy Cup tournament in Powell River from March 16 to 20, 2010.
Mayor Cook resumed the Chair
3) Council approved renewal of the 2010 Renewal and Amendment Agreement for the Community Transit Partnership Agreement with the Cariboo Regional District for the rural bus transit service from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2010.
4) Council approved-in-principle a highway closure for the portion of Donald Road between Western Avenue and Carson Drive, directly adjacent to Highway 97 North (Jamboree Hotel), and Staff were directed to bring forward a Bylaw for Council’s consideration.
5) Council gave first reading to OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2112, which addresses the provision of providing water and sewer services to properties outside City boundaries, and Staff were directed to set a date for a Public Consultation Meeting.
6) Council encouraged the community to attend the annual Easter Egg Hunt at Boitanio Park on Sunday, April 4, 2010. A member of Williams Lake City Council will be on hand to welcome the public and start the festivities.
7) Council gave approval for the annual Nutrition 5 Kilometre Fun Walk/Run on Sunday, April 11, 2010 at 11:00 AM and the community were encouraged to participate
8) A number of Committee of the Whole were endorsed including:
• Receipt of the Draft Housing Needs Assessment for the new OCP/ICSP
• Council applying for delegation privileges at the March 22nd, 2010 Federal Environmental Review Panel for the Prosperity Mine Project. Staff to develop a presentation for consideration by Council
• Approval-in-principle for a highway closure for the portion of an unopened lane directly west of Lot 10, Block 11, Cariboo District, District Lot 71, Plan 1553 adjacent to 249 Barnard Street and Staff were directed to bring forward a Bylaw for Council’s consideration
Mayor Cook declared a personal conflict of interest on the next item and Acting Mayor Natalie Montoya assumed the Chair
• Council gave approval in principle to two text amendments to the City’s Zoning Bylaw pertaining to A-1 (Acreage Reserve) and RR1 (Rural Residential 1) zones and Council gave first reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw #2030, 2010. The Bylaw will now be referred to the Advisory Planning Commission for their comments/recommendations.
Mayor Cook reassumed the Chair
• The proposed Intersection Improvement Options for the Highway 97/Toop Road intersection was received for information. A Public Open House will be scheduled with affected highway property owners
9) Council gave approval for the 16th Annual Spring Round-Up Car Show and Shine on Sunday, May 30, 2010 from 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM on 3rd Avenue between Oliver Street and Proctor Street and Borland Street between 2nd Avenue and 4th Avenue
10) Council authorized a letter of support to be sent to the Federal Government on behalf of Mayor and Council for the Environmental Assessment Permitting Reform Letter from Northern Development Initiative Trust
11) Council encouraged the community to participate in Earth Hour 2010 on March 27, 2010 between 8:30 AM and 9:30 PM by turning off their lights.
12) Council authorize a letter of support be sent to the CRTC on behalf of Mayor and Council for a new local TV channel that may come to Williams Lake.
13) Council received the CRD Board March 5th, 2010 Meeting Highlights for information
14) Council proclaimed April 29, 2010 as “Pay it Forward” Day in the City of Williams Lake
Information/Announcements by Council Members:
Council members made announcements on different events/issues occurring in the City
Meeting adjourned at 8:50pm and reconvened into a Special In-Camera Meeting
Staff: G. Goodall, Acting CAO
C. Bouchard, Manager of Legislative Services
T. Chung, IT Manager
R. Schill, Corporate Services Clerk
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Meeting called to order at 7:30pm
Minutes of February 23, 2010 Council Meeting approved
Delegations:
1) Jeannine McCormack from the Baker Creek Enhancement Society presented information on the 2009 Cariboo Woodstove Exchange Program
Business:
1) Council approved travel for the Chief Administrative Officer and one member of Council to attend the 73rd Annual Federation of Canadian Municipalities Conference being held May 28 to 31, 2010 in Toronto, Ontario
Councillor Rathor was opposed
Mayor Cook declared a conflict of interest on the next item and left Council Chambers. Acting Mayor Natalie Montoya assumed the Chair
2) Council authorized contributing $500 to the Williams Lake Stampeders Hockey Club to help with their travel costs for the 2010 Coy Cup tournament in Powell River from March 16 to 20, 2010.
Mayor Cook resumed the Chair
3) Council approved renewal of the 2010 Renewal and Amendment Agreement for the Community Transit Partnership Agreement with the Cariboo Regional District for the rural bus transit service from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2010.
4) Council approved-in-principle a highway closure for the portion of Donald Road between Western Avenue and Carson Drive, directly adjacent to Highway 97 North (Jamboree Hotel), and Staff were directed to bring forward a Bylaw for Council’s consideration.
5) Council gave first reading to OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2112, which addresses the provision of providing water and sewer services to properties outside City boundaries, and Staff were directed to set a date for a Public Consultation Meeting.
6) Council encouraged the community to attend the annual Easter Egg Hunt at Boitanio Park on Sunday, April 4, 2010. A member of Williams Lake City Council will be on hand to welcome the public and start the festivities.
7) Council gave approval for the annual Nutrition 5 Kilometre Fun Walk/Run on Sunday, April 11, 2010 at 11:00 AM and the community were encouraged to participate
8) A number of Committee of the Whole were endorsed including:
• Receipt of the Draft Housing Needs Assessment for the new OCP/ICSP
• Council applying for delegation privileges at the March 22nd, 2010 Federal Environmental Review Panel for the Prosperity Mine Project. Staff to develop a presentation for consideration by Council
• Approval-in-principle for a highway closure for the portion of an unopened lane directly west of Lot 10, Block 11, Cariboo District, District Lot 71, Plan 1553 adjacent to 249 Barnard Street and Staff were directed to bring forward a Bylaw for Council’s consideration
Mayor Cook declared a personal conflict of interest on the next item and Acting Mayor Natalie Montoya assumed the Chair
• Council gave approval in principle to two text amendments to the City’s Zoning Bylaw pertaining to A-1 (Acreage Reserve) and RR1 (Rural Residential 1) zones and Council gave first reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw #2030, 2010. The Bylaw will now be referred to the Advisory Planning Commission for their comments/recommendations.
Mayor Cook reassumed the Chair
• The proposed Intersection Improvement Options for the Highway 97/Toop Road intersection was received for information. A Public Open House will be scheduled with affected highway property owners
9) Council gave approval for the 16th Annual Spring Round-Up Car Show and Shine on Sunday, May 30, 2010 from 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM on 3rd Avenue between Oliver Street and Proctor Street and Borland Street between 2nd Avenue and 4th Avenue
10) Council authorized a letter of support to be sent to the Federal Government on behalf of Mayor and Council for the Environmental Assessment Permitting Reform Letter from Northern Development Initiative Trust
11) Council encouraged the community to participate in Earth Hour 2010 on March 27, 2010 between 8:30 AM and 9:30 PM by turning off their lights.
12) Council authorize a letter of support be sent to the CRTC on behalf of Mayor and Council for a new local TV channel that may come to Williams Lake.
13) Council received the CRD Board March 5th, 2010 Meeting Highlights for information
14) Council proclaimed April 29, 2010 as “Pay it Forward” Day in the City of Williams Lake
Information/Announcements by Council Members:
Council members made announcements on different events/issues occurring in the City
Meeting adjourned at 8:50pm and reconvened into a Special In-Camera Meeting
Monday, March 8, 2010
HST to be good to Province of BC over coming decade
See below for a press release from the BC Finance Ministry on a report received today that says when the HST is implemented in BC, many billions of investment dollars will flow here as a result
Sales tax harmonization and corporate tax cuts will increase capital investment by $14.4 billion and result in a net increase of 141,000 jobs by the end of the coming decade according to a report released today by economist and tax expert Jack Mintz, announced Finance Minister Colin Hansen. “The Mintz report confirms that the HST, along with federal and provincial corporate tax rate reductions, will dramatically improve the competitiveness of B.C. businesses, both here at home, and abroad,” said Hansen.
“Sales tax harmonization is an essential step to encourage new investment, improve productivity and create jobs for British Columbians.” The report also notes that sales tax harmonization, independent of corporate tax cuts, will account for an $11.5-billion increase in capital investment and a net increase of 113,000 jobs by the end of the coming decade. By lowering the tax on new investment, the HST will encourage capital investment, make B.C.’s economy more tax competitive, and create new jobs and opportunities across the province. While some businesses may not benefit directly from sales tax reform, the significant increase in business activity resulting from the reform will help all sectors of the economy. “Without a doubt, British Columbia’s sales tax harmonization will be a game changer, promoting capital investment in the province and providing an opportunity for the private sector to create jobs and pay higher wages to workers,” said Dr. Jack Mintz.
“Tax reforms will have a profound effect on the economy with B.C. leaping toward fast becoming one of the most competitive jurisdictions in the world.” All industrial sectors in B.C. will benefit from sales tax harmonization and will see their effective tax rate on new investment drop by over a third, according to Mintz, while some will see reductions of over 40 per cent. Small businesses will also see substantial benefits with their effective tax rate on new investment declining by almost 60 per cent. The report concludes that by 2018 B.C. will have an internationally competitive marginal effective tax rate on capital – lower than Alberta, Ontario and the current average of 20 major industrialized and emerging economies including that of the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and South Korea.
Widely published in the field of public economics, Mintz was appointed the Palmer chair in public policy at the University of Calgary in January 2008.
The report can be found online at www.gov.bc.ca/hst
Sales tax harmonization and corporate tax cuts will increase capital investment by $14.4 billion and result in a net increase of 141,000 jobs by the end of the coming decade according to a report released today by economist and tax expert Jack Mintz, announced Finance Minister Colin Hansen. “The Mintz report confirms that the HST, along with federal and provincial corporate tax rate reductions, will dramatically improve the competitiveness of B.C. businesses, both here at home, and abroad,” said Hansen.
“Sales tax harmonization is an essential step to encourage new investment, improve productivity and create jobs for British Columbians.” The report also notes that sales tax harmonization, independent of corporate tax cuts, will account for an $11.5-billion increase in capital investment and a net increase of 113,000 jobs by the end of the coming decade. By lowering the tax on new investment, the HST will encourage capital investment, make B.C.’s economy more tax competitive, and create new jobs and opportunities across the province. While some businesses may not benefit directly from sales tax reform, the significant increase in business activity resulting from the reform will help all sectors of the economy. “Without a doubt, British Columbia’s sales tax harmonization will be a game changer, promoting capital investment in the province and providing an opportunity for the private sector to create jobs and pay higher wages to workers,” said Dr. Jack Mintz.
“Tax reforms will have a profound effect on the economy with B.C. leaping toward fast becoming one of the most competitive jurisdictions in the world.” All industrial sectors in B.C. will benefit from sales tax harmonization and will see their effective tax rate on new investment drop by over a third, according to Mintz, while some will see reductions of over 40 per cent. Small businesses will also see substantial benefits with their effective tax rate on new investment declining by almost 60 per cent. The report concludes that by 2018 B.C. will have an internationally competitive marginal effective tax rate on capital – lower than Alberta, Ontario and the current average of 20 major industrialized and emerging economies including that of the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and South Korea.
Widely published in the field of public economics, Mintz was appointed the Palmer chair in public policy at the University of Calgary in January 2008.
The report can be found online at www.gov.bc.ca/hst
Letter to Federal Review Panel on Prosperity Mine Project
Earlier today, I posted the Public Hearing Schedules for the General, Community and Topic-Specific Sessions. I also asked my readers' to send in a letter in support of the Prosperity Mine Project, if they agreed with me that this project needs to go forward. In that vein, find below a letter that I forwarded to the Federal Review Panel on the proposed Prosperity Mine Project:
My name is Steve Forseth and I’m a 31-year old resident of Williams Lake. I am writing to you to request you give this Project your most favourable consideration when providing recommendations to the Federal Natural Resources and Environment Ministers
I think it needs to be said that anyone who says that mining is environmentally-friend is “out to lunch”. Whenever we talk about extraction of natural resources, there is always a risk to the environment but I believe the public expects government to ensure that these sorts of projects have the least amount of damage to the environment as possible.
As I’m sure you’ve read in the media, the forestry industry, here in the Cariboo-Chilcotin, is undergoing a very challenging time with many on lay-offs at the moment. The mining industry has helped to ensure jobs are available and with this industry showing some promise for the area for the foreseeable future, I plead with you to allow this project to move forward, as I believe it is in the region’s best interest and for the whole of all communities in the Cariboo-Chilcotin including First Nations, who I believe need the work for their people so they can begin to solve some of their socio-economic challenges
Should this project not proceed, then this community and the region very well may have to make some tough choices and those choices could set off a chain reaction which would not be in the region’s long term interests and 1 example of this is what happened to rural Saskatchewan and Newfoundland/Labrador when whole communities were vacated because of a lack of jobs. I certainly do not wish this to become reality here
Welcome to the Cariboo-Chilcotin and may your deliberations be fruitful and positive for this Project
Thank you for your consideration in this matter
Respectfully yours,
Steve Forseth
SF/sf
CC – Dick Harris, MP – Cariboo-Prince George (via email)
Kerry Cook, Mayor of Williams Lake (via email)
Al Richmond, Cariboo Regional District Board Chair (via email)
My name is Steve Forseth and I’m a 31-year old resident of Williams Lake. I am writing to you to request you give this Project your most favourable consideration when providing recommendations to the Federal Natural Resources and Environment Ministers
I think it needs to be said that anyone who says that mining is environmentally-friend is “out to lunch”. Whenever we talk about extraction of natural resources, there is always a risk to the environment but I believe the public expects government to ensure that these sorts of projects have the least amount of damage to the environment as possible.
As I’m sure you’ve read in the media, the forestry industry, here in the Cariboo-Chilcotin, is undergoing a very challenging time with many on lay-offs at the moment. The mining industry has helped to ensure jobs are available and with this industry showing some promise for the area for the foreseeable future, I plead with you to allow this project to move forward, as I believe it is in the region’s best interest and for the whole of all communities in the Cariboo-Chilcotin including First Nations, who I believe need the work for their people so they can begin to solve some of their socio-economic challenges
Should this project not proceed, then this community and the region very well may have to make some tough choices and those choices could set off a chain reaction which would not be in the region’s long term interests and 1 example of this is what happened to rural Saskatchewan and Newfoundland/Labrador when whole communities were vacated because of a lack of jobs. I certainly do not wish this to become reality here
Welcome to the Cariboo-Chilcotin and may your deliberations be fruitful and positive for this Project
Thank you for your consideration in this matter
Respectfully yours,
Steve Forseth
SF/sf
CC – Dick Harris, MP – Cariboo-Prince George (via email)
Kerry Cook, Mayor of Williams Lake (via email)
Al Richmond, Cariboo Regional District Board Chair (via email)
Announcement on Community Access Grants for 2010
See below for information I've received from the Ministry of Social Development and Housing:
The Province is allocating $120 million for gaming grants in 2010-2011, up from $113 million last year, to fund approximately 6,000 organizations that benefit communities, including those that assist public safety, youth and disabled sports, people in need, fairs, festivals, museums and community services such as preschools.
Parent Advisory Councils will receive $20 per student, a $10 increase from 2009-2010. District Parent Advisory Councils will be allocated $2,500 each, up from $1,250 last year. The Province will continue to honour multi-year gaming grant commitments. All other organizations will apply for single-year grants of up to $100,000 each throughout the year, following the regular application process. Groups designated as provincial organizations, which deliver services province-wide, will be eligible for up to $250,000.
Youth arts, culture and sports groups will be eligible for grants this year, as will sports organizations serving people with disabilities. A new sub-category of grants has been created specifically for museums, fairs and festivals. In addition to gaming grant funding, the Province also recently announced a $60-million Sports and Arts Legacy fund as part of Budget 2010.
School playgrounds, environmental groups, and adult arts, culture and sports organizations will remain ineligible for funding this year. Playground grants were provided for approximately 250 school playgrounds across British Columbia between 2007-2008 and 2008-2009.
Effective April 1, the Province will combine bingo affiliation and direct access grants into a single community gaming grant program, ensuring all organizations have fair and equitable access to gaming funding.
Last year, the Province allocated almost $113 million in base grant funding for community organizations. Additional funding was provided to cover other government priorities not traditionally funded by gaming grants.
Responsibility for those programs is returning to the respective ministries this year and the combined community gaming grant program will return to the usual practice of assisting eligible organizations.
In addition to funding community gaming grants, gaming revenue provides over
$1.1 billion for key provincial programs, including health care and education.
Revised applications and instructions for grants will be available by April 1, 2010, at: www.hsd.gov.bc.ca/gaming/grants/index.htm
The Province is allocating $120 million for gaming grants in 2010-2011, up from $113 million last year, to fund approximately 6,000 organizations that benefit communities, including those that assist public safety, youth and disabled sports, people in need, fairs, festivals, museums and community services such as preschools.
Parent Advisory Councils will receive $20 per student, a $10 increase from 2009-2010. District Parent Advisory Councils will be allocated $2,500 each, up from $1,250 last year. The Province will continue to honour multi-year gaming grant commitments. All other organizations will apply for single-year grants of up to $100,000 each throughout the year, following the regular application process. Groups designated as provincial organizations, which deliver services province-wide, will be eligible for up to $250,000.
Youth arts, culture and sports groups will be eligible for grants this year, as will sports organizations serving people with disabilities. A new sub-category of grants has been created specifically for museums, fairs and festivals. In addition to gaming grant funding, the Province also recently announced a $60-million Sports and Arts Legacy fund as part of Budget 2010.
School playgrounds, environmental groups, and adult arts, culture and sports organizations will remain ineligible for funding this year. Playground grants were provided for approximately 250 school playgrounds across British Columbia between 2007-2008 and 2008-2009.
Effective April 1, the Province will combine bingo affiliation and direct access grants into a single community gaming grant program, ensuring all organizations have fair and equitable access to gaming funding.
Last year, the Province allocated almost $113 million in base grant funding for community organizations. Additional funding was provided to cover other government priorities not traditionally funded by gaming grants.
Responsibility for those programs is returning to the respective ministries this year and the combined community gaming grant program will return to the usual practice of assisting eligible organizations.
In addition to funding community gaming grants, gaming revenue provides over
$1.1 billion for key provincial programs, including health care and education.
Revised applications and instructions for grants will be available by April 1, 2010, at: www.hsd.gov.bc.ca/gaming/grants/index.htm
Federal Review Panel Public Hearing Schedule for Prosperity Copper-Gold Mine Project
As the Public Hearings for the Prosperity Mine Project are coming up soon, I'd thought I would let my blog readers' know when and where you may make a presentation.
General Sessions - Register by Friday, March 12th, 2010 with the Federal Review Panel Secretariat by email - Prosperity.Review@ceaa-acee.gc.ca
Date - Monday to Wednesday, March 22 to 24, 2010
Location - Gibralter Room at Cariboo Memorial Complex (525 Proctor Street, WL)
Times - 10am to 5pm and 7pm to 9pm
Date - Thursday, March 25th, 2010
Location - Room 119, Pioneer Complex (351 Hodgson Rd, Williams Lake)
Times - 10am to 5pm*
Date - Friday, March 26th, 2010
Location - Valley Room at the Lodge (150 Highway 97 South, 100 Mile House)
Times - 12pm to 5pm and 7pm to 9pm
Date - Saturday, March 27th, 2010
Location - Community Hall (TBC) (2620 Stum Lake Road, Alexis Creek)
Community Sessions - Register by Friday, March 19th, 2010 with the Federal Review Panel Secretariat by email - Prosperity.Review@ceaa-acee.gc.ca
Date - Monday to Thursday, March 29th to April 1st
Location - Xeni Gwet'in Community Band Hall
Times - 10am to 6pm*
Date - Wednesday and Thursday, April 7th & 8th
Location - Stone Reserve Band Hall
Times - 10am to 6pm*
Date - Friday and Saturday, April 9th and 10th
Location - Toosey Reserve Band Office
Times - 10am to 6pm*
Date - Monday and Tuesday, April 12th & 13th
Location - Elders' Lodge, Anahim Reserve
Times - 10am to 6pm*
Date - Wednesday and Thursday, April 14th and 15th
Location - Cultural Centre, Alexis Creek Reserve (Chilanko Forks)
Times - 10am to 6pm*
Date - Friday and Saturday, April 16th and 17th
Location - Dog Creek Community Gymnasium, Dog Creek Road
Times - 10am to 6pm*
Date - Monday, April 19th
Location - Sxoxomic School Gymnasium Alkali Lake
Times - 1pm to 8pm
Date - Tuesday and Wednesday, April 20th and 21st
Location - Sxoxomic School Gymnasium Alkali Lake
Times - 10am to 6pm*
Topic-Specific Sessions - Register by Friday, April 16th, 2010 with the Federal Review Panel Secretariat by email - Prosperity.Review@ceaa-acee.gc.ca
Date - Monday to Friday, April 26th to 30th, 2010
Location - Room 119, Pioneer Complex (351 Hodgson Road in Williams Lake)
Times - 9am to 5pm*
Closing Remarks - You must have registered previously to address the Federal Review Panel at this Session
Date - Saturday, May 1st
Location - Room 119, Pioneer Complex (351 Hodgson Road in Williams Lake)
Times - 9am to 5pm
* - additional evening session will be scheduled, as necessary
General Sessions - Register by Friday, March 12th, 2010 with the Federal Review Panel Secretariat by email - Prosperity.Review@ceaa-acee.gc.ca
Date - Monday to Wednesday, March 22 to 24, 2010
Location - Gibralter Room at Cariboo Memorial Complex (525 Proctor Street, WL)
Times - 10am to 5pm and 7pm to 9pm
Date - Thursday, March 25th, 2010
Location - Room 119, Pioneer Complex (351 Hodgson Rd, Williams Lake)
Times - 10am to 5pm*
Date - Friday, March 26th, 2010
Location - Valley Room at the Lodge (150 Highway 97 South, 100 Mile House)
Times - 12pm to 5pm and 7pm to 9pm
Date - Saturday, March 27th, 2010
Location - Community Hall (TBC) (2620 Stum Lake Road, Alexis Creek)
Community Sessions - Register by Friday, March 19th, 2010 with the Federal Review Panel Secretariat by email - Prosperity.Review@ceaa-acee.gc.ca
Date - Monday to Thursday, March 29th to April 1st
Location - Xeni Gwet'in Community Band Hall
Times - 10am to 6pm*
Date - Wednesday and Thursday, April 7th & 8th
Location - Stone Reserve Band Hall
Times - 10am to 6pm*
Date - Friday and Saturday, April 9th and 10th
Location - Toosey Reserve Band Office
Times - 10am to 6pm*
Date - Monday and Tuesday, April 12th & 13th
Location - Elders' Lodge, Anahim Reserve
Times - 10am to 6pm*
Date - Wednesday and Thursday, April 14th and 15th
Location - Cultural Centre, Alexis Creek Reserve (Chilanko Forks)
Times - 10am to 6pm*
Date - Friday and Saturday, April 16th and 17th
Location - Dog Creek Community Gymnasium, Dog Creek Road
Times - 10am to 6pm*
Date - Monday, April 19th
Location - Sxoxomic School Gymnasium Alkali Lake
Times - 1pm to 8pm
Date - Tuesday and Wednesday, April 20th and 21st
Location - Sxoxomic School Gymnasium Alkali Lake
Times - 10am to 6pm*
Topic-Specific Sessions - Register by Friday, April 16th, 2010 with the Federal Review Panel Secretariat by email - Prosperity.Review@ceaa-acee.gc.ca
Date - Monday to Friday, April 26th to 30th, 2010
Location - Room 119, Pioneer Complex (351 Hodgson Road in Williams Lake)
Times - 9am to 5pm*
Closing Remarks - You must have registered previously to address the Federal Review Panel at this Session
Date - Saturday, May 1st
Location - Room 119, Pioneer Complex (351 Hodgson Road in Williams Lake)
Times - 9am to 5pm
* - additional evening session will be scheduled, as necessary
Also - I will be blogging on the General Hearings in Williams Lake so look for those posts here. In addition, I encourage anyone who has an opinion/interest on Prosperity Mine going forward to start-up to attend these sessions or send a letter to the Panel.
You can forward it to the Secretariat via email at Prosperity.Review@ceaa-acee.gc.ca not later than Friday, March 12th
Friday, March 5, 2010
Wood First MOU and the City of Williams Lake
Recently, the Cities of Prince George, Quesnel, Campbell River, Castlegar, the Villages of Nakusp and Fruitvale and the District of Squamish along with the Province of BC entered into a Wood First MOU which commits all parties to promoting a "culture of wood" in the Province.
However, in Williams Lake, we are still deciding whether or not to even endorse a Wood First Resolution. This Resolution was supposed to be considered by WL Council on Tuesday, but at the publishing of WL Council's Meeting Agenda for Tuesday, March 9th, the Wood First Resolution had not appeared on the Agenda although it could be still a late item to appear on the Agenda on either Monday or Tuesday. Should it not appear, then that would be unfortunate given that WL City Hall has had well over a month to research this topic and there is no reason for any delay. 7 Local Governments have endorsed a Wood First Resolution. They all can't be wrong for endorsing a "Wood First" Resolution
For the record, here is the contents of the Wood First MOU for my blog readers' information:
WHEREAS the forest products industry is critically important to British Columbia's economy contributing more than any other sector to the provincial trade balance over the past decade
However, in Williams Lake, we are still deciding whether or not to even endorse a Wood First Resolution. This Resolution was supposed to be considered by WL Council on Tuesday, but at the publishing of WL Council's Meeting Agenda for Tuesday, March 9th, the Wood First Resolution had not appeared on the Agenda although it could be still a late item to appear on the Agenda on either Monday or Tuesday. Should it not appear, then that would be unfortunate given that WL City Hall has had well over a month to research this topic and there is no reason for any delay. 7 Local Governments have endorsed a Wood First Resolution. They all can't be wrong for endorsing a "Wood First" Resolution
For the record, here is the contents of the Wood First MOU for my blog readers' information:
WHEREAS the forest products industry is critically important to British Columbia's economy contributing more than any other sector to the provincial trade balance over the past decade
WHEREAS building with wood is recognized to be a catalyst for stimulating forest industry innovation and diversification, creating new markets for value-added wood products and showcasing the economic and environmental advantages of wood as a construction material
WHEREAS the Province of British Columbia has passed the Wood First Act that facilities a culture of wood for construction in British Columbia by requiring the use of wood as the primary building material in all new provincially funded buildings, in a manner consistent with the BC Building Code
WHEREAS municipalities can acknowledge the importance of wood as a building material, and that expression of wood use can support in the achievement of economic, environmental and social benefits for BC communities
WHEREAS seven municipalities in BC have passed "Wood First" resolutions that commit to the development of a culture of wood through the promotion of wood as the building material of first choice in their communities
The PARTIES therefore agree as follows:
1) To jointly recognize the opportunity for local governments to become wood champions and support the Government of BC's Wood First Act by adopting Wood First Resolutions
2) To become partners with the Province of BC in expanding the use of wood in BC and other provinces
3) To commit to the further development of policy that encourage and promote the primary use of wood in municipal structures and also develop a culture of wood amongst architects, designers and engineers
4) To advocate for the adoption of Wood-First resolutions by municipalities in BC
5) To work with the Union of BC Municipalities in order to achieve benefits available to communities through the expanded use of wood
City of Williams Lake launches Video Tourbook
The City of Williams Lake has now launced a video tour of Williams Lake including the following topics:
i) Introduction by Mayor Kerry Cook
ii) Education
iii) Quality of Life
iv) Arts, Entertainment and Culture
v) Tourism and things to do
Check it out at http://www.williamslake.ca
The link to the video tour is on the left screen of the webpage. You can't miss it
i) Introduction by Mayor Kerry Cook
ii) Education
iii) Quality of Life
iv) Arts, Entertainment and Culture
v) Tourism and things to do
Check it out at http://www.williamslake.ca
The link to the video tour is on the left screen of the webpage. You can't miss it
Local Government Meetings in Cariboo-Chilcotin - Week of March 8 - 12
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Letter to Community and Rural Development Minister Bill Bennett
Recently, I sent a letter to Community & Rural Development Minister Bill Bennett asking that his Ministry officials review Council's decision to allow WL City Councillor Sue Zacharias to participate, by phone, in the February 16th, 2010 Committee of Whole Council meeting. I should note two things:
1) Section 128(1) of the Community Charter requires that a local government authorize the use of electronic means (webcam or telephone) in their Procedure Bylaw
2) City of Williams Lake Bylaw #1940, 2004 (Council Procedure Bylaw) does not currently authorize Council to make use of electronic means in its meetings
Find below a copy of the letter I sent to Minister Bennett earlier today:
Dear Minister Bennett:
Re: Use of Teleconferencing at the February 16th, 2010 Committee of the Whole Council Meeting (City of Williams Lake)
I recently had the opportunity to review the minutes of the February 16th, 2010 meeting of the Committee of the Whole Council (City of Williams Lake), and I wish to bring to your attention and that of your Ministry officials, of the use of teleconferencing during this meeting
Section 128(1) of the Community Charter states the following, with regard to electronic meetings of local government:
Electronic meetings and participation by members
128 (1) If this is authorized by procedure bylaw and the requirements of subsection (2) are met...
Williams Lake City Councillor Sue Zacharias, during the February 16th, 2010 Committee of the Whole Council meeting, was given permission by Williams Lake City Council to participate electronically, via teleconference, on the grounds that she would be identified as being “absent” and that she would not have a vote on any matter before the Committee but she would be allowed to speak on any matter before the Committee. I will be attaching a copy of Page 1 of minutes of the February 16th, 2010 Committee of the Whole meeting, both for your information and that of your Ministry officials
Further to this, the current Williams Lake Council Procedure Bylaw does not currently authorize the use of electronic meetings to allow a member of Williams Lake City Council to participate electronically during a Council meeting. I will be attaching Page 1 from the “Table of Contents” from City of Williams Lake Bylaw #1940, 2004 (Council Procedure Bylaw), both for your information and that of your Ministry officials as Procedure Bylaws, as I understand it, are supposed to be the same in content. I am told that a new Procedure Bylaw will be presented to Williams Lake City Council at its’ March 30th, 2010 Committee of the Whole Council meeting.
Upon learning this, I emailed the City of Williams Lake Mayor Kerry Cook requesting clarification.
On Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010, I received an email response from Brian Carruthers, Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Williams Lake. Mr. Carruthers clarified what had occurred at the February 16th, 2010 Committee of the Whole Meeting. In addition, he stated the following;
In the meantime, it is Council’s right to allow a Council member to participate in a Council meeting via telephone provided they are not given voting rights when a question is called as this would be in contravention of our Bylaw
Having said all of that, my real concern, at this point, is that Williams Lake City Council is acting in contravention of Section 128 of the Community Charter, both in spirit and intent
If Williams Lake City Council is allowed to ignore Section 128 of the Community Charter without consequence, then compliance with the Community Charter itself becomes meaningless
I hereby request your Ministry officials to review this situation and should the facts warrant it, I believe that the City of Williams Lake should be strongly reminded that use of teleconferencing or other electronic means for its’ meetings’ is prohibited until such time as the City of Williams Lake Council has duly authorized the use of electronic meetings in its’ Procedure Bylaw
Please contact the undersigned at (250) – 303-0951 or by email at sforseth000@hotmail.com if you wish to discuss this matter further.
Thank you for your consideration in this matter
Yours truly,
Steve Forseth
SF/sf
1) Section 128(1) of the Community Charter requires that a local government authorize the use of electronic means (webcam or telephone) in their Procedure Bylaw
2) City of Williams Lake Bylaw #1940, 2004 (Council Procedure Bylaw) does not currently authorize Council to make use of electronic means in its meetings
Find below a copy of the letter I sent to Minister Bennett earlier today:
Dear Minister Bennett:
Re: Use of Teleconferencing at the February 16th, 2010 Committee of the Whole Council Meeting (City of Williams Lake)
I recently had the opportunity to review the minutes of the February 16th, 2010 meeting of the Committee of the Whole Council (City of Williams Lake), and I wish to bring to your attention and that of your Ministry officials, of the use of teleconferencing during this meeting
Section 128(1) of the Community Charter states the following, with regard to electronic meetings of local government:
Electronic meetings and participation by members
128 (1) If this is authorized by procedure bylaw and the requirements of subsection (2) are met...
Williams Lake City Councillor Sue Zacharias, during the February 16th, 2010 Committee of the Whole Council meeting, was given permission by Williams Lake City Council to participate electronically, via teleconference, on the grounds that she would be identified as being “absent” and that she would not have a vote on any matter before the Committee but she would be allowed to speak on any matter before the Committee. I will be attaching a copy of Page 1 of minutes of the February 16th, 2010 Committee of the Whole meeting, both for your information and that of your Ministry officials
Further to this, the current Williams Lake Council Procedure Bylaw does not currently authorize the use of electronic meetings to allow a member of Williams Lake City Council to participate electronically during a Council meeting. I will be attaching Page 1 from the “Table of Contents” from City of Williams Lake Bylaw #1940, 2004 (Council Procedure Bylaw), both for your information and that of your Ministry officials as Procedure Bylaws, as I understand it, are supposed to be the same in content. I am told that a new Procedure Bylaw will be presented to Williams Lake City Council at its’ March 30th, 2010 Committee of the Whole Council meeting.
Upon learning this, I emailed the City of Williams Lake Mayor Kerry Cook requesting clarification.
On Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010, I received an email response from Brian Carruthers, Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Williams Lake. Mr. Carruthers clarified what had occurred at the February 16th, 2010 Committee of the Whole Meeting. In addition, he stated the following;
In the meantime, it is Council’s right to allow a Council member to participate in a Council meeting via telephone provided they are not given voting rights when a question is called as this would be in contravention of our Bylaw
Having said all of that, my real concern, at this point, is that Williams Lake City Council is acting in contravention of Section 128 of the Community Charter, both in spirit and intent
If Williams Lake City Council is allowed to ignore Section 128 of the Community Charter without consequence, then compliance with the Community Charter itself becomes meaningless
I hereby request your Ministry officials to review this situation and should the facts warrant it, I believe that the City of Williams Lake should be strongly reminded that use of teleconferencing or other electronic means for its’ meetings’ is prohibited until such time as the City of Williams Lake Council has duly authorized the use of electronic meetings in its’ Procedure Bylaw
Please contact the undersigned at (250) – 303-0951 or by email at sforseth000@hotmail.com if you wish to discuss this matter further.
Thank you for your consideration in this matter
Yours truly,
Steve Forseth
SF/sf
Monday, March 1, 2010
Innovators' Summit - City of Williams Lake "Imagine our Future" Project
I'm told on Wednesday, March 3rd, as part of the "Imagine our Future" Project, an Innovators' Summit is being convened. The Innovators Summit will bring the leaders of our community together to realize new business opportunities and further job creation as well as explore new ways of building design and construction in Williams Lake. We’ll be focusing on developing specific ideas for new opportunities
I don't have a location but I assume that the location will be advertised (I hope) in tomorrow's WL Tribune so keep an eye for the location and attend, if you can, or you can email imagine@williamslake.ca for more information. The information discussed at that summit will help the City create an new OCP (Official Community Plan) and a new ICSP (Integrated Community Sustainability Plan)
Update - The Innovators' Summit is being held at the new City of WL Fire Hall between 5-9pm tonight. However, this is an "invitation-only" event. However, if you still wish to attend, contact Lilliana Dragowska, City Planner at (250) - 392-2311 or by email at ldragowska@williamslake.ca for further details
I don't have a location but I assume that the location will be advertised (I hope) in tomorrow's WL Tribune so keep an eye for the location and attend, if you can, or you can email imagine@williamslake.ca for more information. The information discussed at that summit will help the City create an new OCP (Official Community Plan) and a new ICSP (Integrated Community Sustainability Plan)
Update - The Innovators' Summit is being held at the new City of WL Fire Hall between 5-9pm tonight. However, this is an "invitation-only" event. However, if you still wish to attend, contact Lilliana Dragowska, City Planner at (250) - 392-2311 or by email at ldragowska@williamslake.ca for further details
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