Next week - the following local governments will be meeting:
Quesnel - Regular Meeting on Monday, Nov 2nd at 7pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Updates from QCEDC and Cariboo Regional District Boards
* NDIT - Mountain Pine Beetle Fund Proposal Update
* Quesnel Lions Housing Society - Application to Amend Land Use Bylaws
* Road Rehabilitation - 2015 Overlay Paving
* Council Pay for 2016
* Development in West Quesnel Land Study Area
View the full Agenda here
Wells - Special Council Meeting on Tuesday, Nov 3rd at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue). On the Agenda:
* Marketing Initiatives Application
* In-Camera Meeting as per Section 90(1a - appointments) of the Community Charter
View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 3rd at 6pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
Delegations (2) - LeRae Haynes, Success by 6 re Upcoming "Baby Fest 2015" / Joanne Meyrick, Women's Contact Society re New Early Years Centre & Steve Whiteside, Chief Rabban - Shriners Club of BC & Yukon and Cliff Cawley, Secretary - Cariboo Shrine Club 26 re 2016 Ceremonial Parade
Business:
* Numerous Recommendations from the Oct 28th meeting of CC Joint Committee
* Public Consideration of DVP #8-2015 John & Norma Bos - Interior Lot Line Reduction for Shed - 705 Fourth Avenue North
* 2015 UBCM Report from Councillor S. Zacharias
* Receive DVP Application #09-2015 - Tango Management Group (Cariboo Regional District) - Lot Line Setback Reduction - 525 Proctor Street (Sam Ketcham Pool Project)
* Recommendation from Public Works Committee re: Removal of Snow from City Sidewalks
View the full Agenda here
There is also a Public Hearing at 7pm on Tuesday, Nov 3rd in WL Council Chambers in regards to Zoning Amendment Bylaw #2237 (Joe Hamel - 1999 Broadway Avenue South for Addition of Carriage House). View the Public Hearing Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District:
Central Cariboo Multi-Agency Forum - Monday, Nov 2nd at 5:30pm - 7pm at the McLeese Lake Community Hall (6178 Forglen Rd). Residents within Electoral Areas D, E, F, J and K plus the City of Williams Lake should attend the forum. CRD Directors Steve Forseth, Betty Anderson, Joan Sorley will be in attendance plus CRD Staff plus Interior Health, RCMP, and many others will attend to answer your questions. I look forward to seeing you there on Monday
North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus - Tuesday, Nov 3rd at 3pm at the CRD Quesnel sub-office (#102-410 Kinchant St, Quesnel). On the Agenda:
* Proposed 2016 North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus Meeting Schedule
* Proposed Grant for Assistance application from the Quesnel Tillicum Society
* Discussion on proposed 2016 North Cariboo Recreation/Parks Budget
* In-Camera Session as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter
The full Agenda can be viewed here
Public Hearing (Electoral Area D) - Wednesday, Nov 4th at 7pm in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake) for 880 Soda Creek. You can read the Public Hearing Notice here with the proposed Bylaw here and additional information you can review here. The CRD Board has delegated the chairing of the Public Hearing to Area 'D' Director S. Forseth, as per CRD Board Policy
Community Events this weekend or next week:
Saturday, Oct 30th - Halloween Events at Wildwood Fire Hall, WL Stampede Grounds (7pm) and Oasis Pub in McLeese Lake at 8pm
Wednesday, Nov 4th - Refugee Sponsorship Meeting at 7pm - Immigrant and Multicultural Services Society building (118C N. 1st Ave, Williams Lake). For more information, contact Sharon Taylor here (email) or 778-412-2999
Friday, October 30, 2015
Grant applications being accepted by BC Arts Council
Courtesy of the BC Government:
Applications are now being accepted for several project assistance programs offered by the BC Arts Council.
Visual artists/crafts individual arts awards to assist professional visual artists, contemporary and traditional craft artists and independent critics and curators with the creation of specific projects by providing funds towards subsistence, materials and other related project costs. Applications will be considered according to artistic achievement and feasibility. Application deadline is Nov. 15, 2015.
Professional development project assistance helps professional artists and arts administrators take advantage of opportunities requiring travel or to undertake specific learning activities to advance their practice or career. Next application deadline is Dec. 1, 2015.
Touring initiatives supports B.C. artists and arts organizations undertaking touring activities outside the province that will lead to enhanced professional opportunities. Funding is provided for projects that are part of significant national or international cultural events or that take advantage of significant market development and audience development and touring opportunities. Priority will be given to professionally organized tours for which artists are receiving fees. Next application deadline is Dec. 1, 2015.
Guidelines and program details, including eligibility, can be found at https://www.bcartscouncil.ca/deadlines_date.html.
The BC Arts Council is the Government of British Columbia's lead agency for arts funding and development. All BC Arts Council grants are awarded through a peer assessment process that relies on the knowledge and expertise of the province's talented arts and culture community.
In 2015-16, government is investing $60 million in British Columbia's artists, arts organizations and cultural institutions, including $24 million to the BC Arts Council.
Applications are now being accepted for several project assistance programs offered by the BC Arts Council.
Visual artists/crafts individual arts awards to assist professional visual artists, contemporary and traditional craft artists and independent critics and curators with the creation of specific projects by providing funds towards subsistence, materials and other related project costs. Applications will be considered according to artistic achievement and feasibility. Application deadline is Nov. 15, 2015.
Professional development project assistance helps professional artists and arts administrators take advantage of opportunities requiring travel or to undertake specific learning activities to advance their practice or career. Next application deadline is Dec. 1, 2015.
Touring initiatives supports B.C. artists and arts organizations undertaking touring activities outside the province that will lead to enhanced professional opportunities. Funding is provided for projects that are part of significant national or international cultural events or that take advantage of significant market development and audience development and touring opportunities. Priority will be given to professionally organized tours for which artists are receiving fees. Next application deadline is Dec. 1, 2015.
Guidelines and program details, including eligibility, can be found at https://www.bcartscouncil.ca/deadlines_date.html.
The BC Arts Council is the Government of British Columbia's lead agency for arts funding and development. All BC Arts Council grants are awarded through a peer assessment process that relies on the knowledge and expertise of the province's talented arts and culture community.
In 2015-16, government is investing $60 million in British Columbia's artists, arts organizations and cultural institutions, including $24 million to the BC Arts Council.
Prescribed Burning at Beecher's Prairie
Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Branch:
The BC Wildfire Service advises that an ecosystem restoration burn is planned for an area east of Riske Creek between Nov. 2 and Dec. 31, 2015, weather conditions permitting.
The planned burn will treat up to 400 hectares on Beecher's Prairie south of Highway 20 and will help restore native grassland ecosystems. This controlled burn is part of a larger ecosystem restoration project on Beecher's Prairie.
Mechanical removal of trees ("slashing") was completed in the area last winter to reduce tree encroachment on natural grasslands. The upcoming ecosystem restoration burn is intended to reduce the remaining fuel load from that work. In spring 2016, low-intensity ground fires will be introduced to the area as a follow-up treatment.
All of these efforts will help restore and maintain the traditional grassland plant communities that are native to this area. This ecosystem restoration work will also lead to an increase in forage area for livestock and decrease the risk of catastrophic wildfires.
Historically, grasslands in the Cariboo-Chilcotin were renewed through frequent, low-intensity ground fires. Such fires prevented tree encroachment, rejuvenated understory plants and helped maintain open grasslands and forests with large trees.
The Beecher's Prairie project is part of an ongoing ecosystem restoration program administered by the provincial government through the Cariboo-Chilcotin Ecosystem Restoration Committee.
This committee was formed in 2008 to support ecosystem restoration efforts within the Cariboo-Chilcotin region. It includes representatives from the provincial and federal governments, local First Nations, the B.C. Cattlemen's Association and various conservation groups, as well as forestry professionals.
Learn More:
To learn more about the Cariboo-Chilcotin Ecosystem Restoration Committee, visit: www.ccerc.net
A factsheet about prescribed burning is available online at: http://bit.ly/1haDzED
Media Contact:
Rory Colwell
Forest Protection Officer
BC Wildfire Service
Cariboo Fire Centre
250 989-2675
Thursday, October 29, 2015
CRD Committee of the Whole - Oct 28th mtg
Present - Chair Richmond; Directors Armstrong, Massier, Forseth, Kemp, Sorley, Wagner, Cash, Anderson, Coakley, Sharpe, Simpson, Cobb, Campsall and Alternate Director R. Terlesky (Area B)
Resolved - Report received
Discussion ensued thereon
Meeting recessed at 2:32pm
Meeting resumed at 2:38pm
Resolved - Report of Manager of Development Services be received
At 2:39pm- the Committee convened an In-Camera Meeting as per Section 90(1c - labour relations or employee relations) of the Community Charter
At 4:00pm - Meeting adjourned, due to lack of quorum
Meeting called to order at 9:30am
Agenda approved/COW Minutes of June 11th adopted
Delegation:
1) Amy Thacker from the Cariboo-Chilcotin-Coast Tourism Association appeared before the Committee to discuss the Destination BC Marketing Co-Op Program
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair, on behalf of the Committee, thanked Ms. Thacker for her time/information
Agenda approved/COW Minutes of June 11th adopted
Delegation:
1) Amy Thacker from the Cariboo-Chilcotin-Coast Tourism Association appeared before the Committee to discuss the Destination BC Marketing Co-Op Program
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair, on behalf of the Committee, thanked Ms. Thacker for her time/information
Business:
1) Raising the Profile of the CRD
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
2) CRD 2015-19 Strategic Plan
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the Cariboo Regional District Strategic Plan 2015-2019 prepared by Paragon Strategic Services, be endorsed as presented. Further, that staff be requested to ensure that specific business plan goals are aligned with the priorities of the strategic plan and to report back on how those goals will be tracked and measured as they are advanced.
Resolved - That Staff report back on how to align Corporate Priorities Policy Reports with the Strategic Plan
4) Request from Director Bruce - Schedule a Special Board Meeting
Discussion ensued
Resolved - Item received
5) Grant for Assistance Process
Discussion ensued
Resolved - Item received and Staff report back on combining Grant for Assistance/Area Discretionary Fund
Meeting recessed at 11:02am
Meeting resumed at 11:08am
6) Proposed Ancillary Bylaw Amendments
Discussion ensued
Meeting recessed for lunch at 12:15pm
Meeting resumed at 12:45pm
Resolved - That Staff create amendment bylaws for ancillary spaces and forward the proposed bylaws to agencies for comment & Staff report back on steel storage containers and no further action be taken on lot size coverage
7) Secondary Suites, Carriage Homes, Secondary Dwellings - Bylaw Amendments
3) Corporate Priorities Policy
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That Staff report back on how to align Corporate Priorities Policy Reports with the Strategic Plan
4) Request from Director Bruce - Schedule a Special Board Meeting
Discussion ensued
Resolved - Item received
5) Grant for Assistance Process
Discussion ensued
Resolved - Item received and Staff report back on combining Grant for Assistance/Area Discretionary Fund
Meeting recessed at 11:02am
Meeting resumed at 11:08am
6) Proposed Ancillary Bylaw Amendments
Discussion ensued
Meeting recessed for lunch at 12:15pm
Meeting resumed at 12:45pm
Resolved - That Staff create amendment bylaws for ancillary spaces and forward the proposed bylaws to agencies for comment & Staff report back on steel storage containers and no further action be taken on lot size coverage
7) Secondary Suites, Carriage Homes, Secondary Dwellings - Bylaw Amendments
Discussion ensued thereon
Meeting recessed at 2:32pm
Meeting resumed at 2:38pm
Resolved - Report of Manager of Development Services be received
At 2:39pm- the Committee convened an In-Camera Meeting as per Section 90(1c - labour relations or employee relations) of the Community Charter
At 4:00pm - Meeting adjourned, due to lack of quorum
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
CC Joint Committee Mtg - Oct 28th
Present from City of WL - Councillors S. Nelson, J. Ryll, C. Smith, L. Walters (via teleconference) and S. Zacharias
Present from CRD - Directors S. Forseth, B. Kemp, J. Sorley and B. Anderson
Meeting chaired by CRD Area 'F' Director J. Sorley
Meeting called to order at 5:04pm
Meeting Agenda approved as amended/Sept 16th CC Joint Committee Meeting Minutes adopted
Delegation:
1) Diana French and William Adams from Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin appeared before the Committee to discuss Museum Update & Request for Funds
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair, on behalf of the Committee, thanked the delegation for their time/information
Resolved - That this matter be deferred to the November Joint Committee meeting and Staff arrange for a tour of the Museum for WL Council/CRD Directors on November 25th at 4pm
Business:
1) 2015 Arts & Culture Society Third Quarter Report
Discussion ensued
Resolved - Report received
2) 2015 Performances in the Park Year-End Report
Discussion ensued
Resolved - Report received
3) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society Service Delivery Agreement and Arts Centre Management & Operations Agreement Renewals
Discussion ensued
Resolved - Recommend to CRD Board that the CCACS Service Delivery Agreement/Arts Centre Management & Operations Agreement both be renewed for an additional term of 5 years
4) CMRC Parking Expansion - Licence Agreement
Report of Director of Community Services, City of WL was discussed
Resolved - That it be recommended to CRD Board/City Council, the proposed license agreement be approved
5) CMRC Parking Lot Expansion - Roundabout
Report of Director of Community Services, City of WL was discussed
Resolved - Report received, tender parking lot project with roundabout option and that the project budget not exceed $1.55 million
Councillor C. Smith declared a conflict of interest on the next item and left the meeting at 6:28pm
6) CMRC Rink Board Signage Revenue
Report of Director of Community Services, City of WL was discussed
Resolved - That it be recommended to CRD Board/City Council:
Joint Committee approve that rink board sign revenue divided among designated non-profit user groups after expenses and WL Speed Skating Club be included in 50/50 split, and further;
Joint Committee permit the engagement of a contractor to sell rink board advertising within the CMRC on a commission basis- amount to be determined through an RFP process.
Councillor C. Smith returned to the meeting at 6:33pm
7) Removal of Diving Board from Sam Ketcham Pool
Report of Director of Community Services, City of WL was discussed
Resolved - Report received
8) CMRC 2009 to 2015 Budget Comparison & Overview
Report of Director of Community Services, City of WL was discussed
Resolved - Report received
9) Central Cariboo Recreation & Leisure Services 2016 Business, Financial & Capital Plans
Report of Manager of Community Services, CRD was discussed
Resolved - That the 2016 Central Cariboo Recreation & Leisure Services Business, Financial & Capital Plans be endorsed
10) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture 2016 Business & Financial Plans
Report of Manager of Community Services, CRD was discussed
Resolved - Central Cariboo Arts & Culture 2016 Business & Financial Plans be endorsed
11) CMRC Facility Management Agreement Amendment to Include Additional Parking Space for the Sam Ketcham Pool Upgrade Project
Report of Manager of Community Services, CRD was discussed
Resolved - That the amendment to the CMRC Facility Management Agreement be approved
12) CC Recreation - Field Maintenance Agreement Renewals with the Sports Leagues Managing the Esler Sports Complex
Report of Manager of Community Services, CRD was discussed
Resolved - Field Maintenance Agreement Renewals with the Sports Leagues Managing the Esler Sports Complex be endorsed
13) Proposed Contribution Agreement with the 150 Mile Greenbelt Heritage and Trails Society to Support Management and Operation of its Public Recreation Property
Report of Manager of Community Services, CRD was discussed
Resolved - That the proposed Contribution Agreement with the 150 Mile Greenbelt Heritage and Trails Society be approved
14) Pool Working Group September 2015
Discussion ensued
Resolved - Report received
15) Proposed 2016 Central Cariboo / City of Williams Lake Joint Committee Meeting Schedule
Report from CRD Deputy Corporate Officer was discussed
Resolved - 2016 CC Joint Committee Meeting Schedule be endorsed
16) Action Page
Resolved - Action Page received and remove Items 1 and 2
The meeting adjourned at 7:18pm
Present from CRD - Directors S. Forseth, B. Kemp, J. Sorley and B. Anderson
Meeting chaired by CRD Area 'F' Director J. Sorley
Meeting called to order at 5:04pm
Meeting Agenda approved as amended/Sept 16th CC Joint Committee Meeting Minutes adopted
Delegation:
1) Diana French and William Adams from Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin appeared before the Committee to discuss Museum Update & Request for Funds
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair, on behalf of the Committee, thanked the delegation for their time/information
Resolved - That this matter be deferred to the November Joint Committee meeting and Staff arrange for a tour of the Museum for WL Council/CRD Directors on November 25th at 4pm
Business:
1) 2015 Arts & Culture Society Third Quarter Report
Discussion ensued
Resolved - Report received
2) 2015 Performances in the Park Year-End Report
Discussion ensued
Resolved - Report received
3) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society Service Delivery Agreement and Arts Centre Management & Operations Agreement Renewals
Discussion ensued
Resolved - Recommend to CRD Board that the CCACS Service Delivery Agreement/Arts Centre Management & Operations Agreement both be renewed for an additional term of 5 years
4) CMRC Parking Expansion - Licence Agreement
Report of Director of Community Services, City of WL was discussed
Resolved - That it be recommended to CRD Board/City Council, the proposed license agreement be approved
5) CMRC Parking Lot Expansion - Roundabout
Report of Director of Community Services, City of WL was discussed
Resolved - Report received, tender parking lot project with roundabout option and that the project budget not exceed $1.55 million
Councillor C. Smith declared a conflict of interest on the next item and left the meeting at 6:28pm
6) CMRC Rink Board Signage Revenue
Report of Director of Community Services, City of WL was discussed
Resolved - That it be recommended to CRD Board/City Council:
Joint Committee approve that rink board sign revenue divided among designated non-profit user groups after expenses and WL Speed Skating Club be included in 50/50 split, and further;
Joint Committee permit the engagement of a contractor to sell rink board advertising within the CMRC on a commission basis- amount to be determined through an RFP process.
Councillor C. Smith returned to the meeting at 6:33pm
7) Removal of Diving Board from Sam Ketcham Pool
Report of Director of Community Services, City of WL was discussed
Resolved - Report received
8) CMRC 2009 to 2015 Budget Comparison & Overview
Report of Director of Community Services, City of WL was discussed
Resolved - Report received
9) Central Cariboo Recreation & Leisure Services 2016 Business, Financial & Capital Plans
Report of Manager of Community Services, CRD was discussed
Resolved - That the 2016 Central Cariboo Recreation & Leisure Services Business, Financial & Capital Plans be endorsed
10) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture 2016 Business & Financial Plans
Report of Manager of Community Services, CRD was discussed
Resolved - Central Cariboo Arts & Culture 2016 Business & Financial Plans be endorsed
11) CMRC Facility Management Agreement Amendment to Include Additional Parking Space for the Sam Ketcham Pool Upgrade Project
Report of Manager of Community Services, CRD was discussed
Resolved - That the amendment to the CMRC Facility Management Agreement be approved
12) CC Recreation - Field Maintenance Agreement Renewals with the Sports Leagues Managing the Esler Sports Complex
Report of Manager of Community Services, CRD was discussed
Resolved - Field Maintenance Agreement Renewals with the Sports Leagues Managing the Esler Sports Complex be endorsed
13) Proposed Contribution Agreement with the 150 Mile Greenbelt Heritage and Trails Society to Support Management and Operation of its Public Recreation Property
Report of Manager of Community Services, CRD was discussed
Resolved - That the proposed Contribution Agreement with the 150 Mile Greenbelt Heritage and Trails Society be approved
14) Pool Working Group September 2015
Discussion ensued
Resolved - Report received
15) Proposed 2016 Central Cariboo / City of Williams Lake Joint Committee Meeting Schedule
Report from CRD Deputy Corporate Officer was discussed
Resolved - 2016 CC Joint Committee Meeting Schedule be endorsed
16) Action Page
Resolved - Action Page received and remove Items 1 and 2
The meeting adjourned at 7:18pm
CC Rural Caucus - Oct 25th mtg
Present - Chair S. Forseth; Director B. Kemp, J. Sorley and B. Anderson
Meeting called to order at 2pm
Meeting Agenda approved with late item - Mt Polley Public Liaison Committee
Sept 14th CC Rural Caucus Meeting Minutes approved
Delegations:
1) Insp. Milo MacDonald - Williams Lake RCMP
Inspector MacDonald appeared before the Committee to discuss policing issues within the Central Cariboo
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair, on behalf of the Committee, thanked Insp. MacDonald for his time/information
2) Elcy LePage/Stan McCarthy - Interior Roads
Ms. LePage/Mr. McCarthy appeared before the Committee to discuss Interior Roads' Winter Road Maintenance program
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair, on behalf of the Committee, thanked the delegation for their time/information
Business:
The Committee discussed the following:
a) Hours at the Wildwood Transfer Station
b) Letter to Ministry of Transportation re: Installation of Portable Washroom at pullover - Reservoir Lake
c) Update from Chair - City of WL/CRD Memo of Understanding
d) Update from Director Sorley - Mt Polley Public Liaison Committee
e) Action Page
At 3:25pm - An In-Camera Meeting was convened as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter
At 3:45pm - the Committee resumed their public meeting and adjourned
Meeting called to order at 2pm
Meeting Agenda approved with late item - Mt Polley Public Liaison Committee
Sept 14th CC Rural Caucus Meeting Minutes approved
Delegations:
1) Insp. Milo MacDonald - Williams Lake RCMP
Inspector MacDonald appeared before the Committee to discuss policing issues within the Central Cariboo
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair, on behalf of the Committee, thanked Insp. MacDonald for his time/information
2) Elcy LePage/Stan McCarthy - Interior Roads
Ms. LePage/Mr. McCarthy appeared before the Committee to discuss Interior Roads' Winter Road Maintenance program
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair, on behalf of the Committee, thanked the delegation for their time/information
Business:
The Committee discussed the following:
a) Hours at the Wildwood Transfer Station
b) Letter to Ministry of Transportation re: Installation of Portable Washroom at pullover - Reservoir Lake
c) Update from Chair - City of WL/CRD Memo of Understanding
d) Update from Director Sorley - Mt Polley Public Liaison Committee
e) Action Page
At 3:25pm - An In-Camera Meeting was convened as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter
At 3:45pm - the Committee resumed their public meeting and adjourned
Drinking Water Wells Project Open House - City of Quesnel
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel website:
You are invited to attend an open house at:
City of Quesnel Council Chambers
410 Kinchant St
October 28, 2015 from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
410 Kinchant St
October 28, 2015 from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
A team of Drinking Water Professionals and City Staff will have work stations set up to provide an overview of background, current and future planned works on City of Quesnel groundwater wells. The City of Quesnel is seeking approval from the Environmental Assessment Office to extract groundwater from City wells at rates that meet thresholds outlined in the Reviewable Projects Regulation enacted under the BC Environmental Assessment Act. The Environmental Assessment Office considers this project is a “Public Good” project and it requires an environmental assessment certificate. The Environmental Assessment process involves Public Consultation and First Nations consultation.
City of Quesnel and area residents are invited to attend this Public Open House to learn about the project and to provide input on the environmental components that will be reviewed as a part of the environmental assessment.
Tuesday, October 27, 2015
Special WL City Council Mtg - Oct 27th
Present - Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors I. Bonnell, S. Nelson, J. Ryll, C. Smith, S. Zacharias and L Walters, via teleconference
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Meeting Agenda approved
Councillor S. Nelson declared an perceived conflict of interest on the next item and left the meeting at 6:01pm
1) Bylaw #2238 - Permissive Property Tax Exemptions for Years 2016-2015 - for Reconsideration/Adoption
The Mayor permitted Mr. John Pickford to address Council on Bylaw #2238
After discussion - the question was called on the motion That Bylaw #2238 be reconsidered and adopted and it was Carried Unanimously
Meeting adjourned at 6:13pm and Council convened an In-Camera Meeting as per Section 90(1a - appointment) of the Community Charter
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Meeting Agenda approved
Councillor S. Nelson declared an perceived conflict of interest on the next item and left the meeting at 6:01pm
1) Bylaw #2238 - Permissive Property Tax Exemptions for Years 2016-2015 - for Reconsideration/Adoption
The Mayor permitted Mr. John Pickford to address Council on Bylaw #2238
After discussion - the question was called on the motion That Bylaw #2238 be reconsidered and adopted and it was Carried Unanimously
Meeting adjourned at 6:13pm and Council convened an In-Camera Meeting as per Section 90(1a - appointment) of the Community Charter
Monday, October 26, 2015
City of WL Halloween Event - Oct 31st
Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:
The entire community is invited to attend the Halloween Fireworks hosted by the City of Williams Lake at the Stampede Grounds Oct. 31.
The bonfire will be lit at 7:15 p.m., with the fireworks set to go off at 7:45 p.m.
The Lions Club will have hot dogs and hot chocolate available by donation.
This event is sponsored by City of Williams Lake Recreation Services, the Williams Lake Fire Department, the Lions Club, Community Policing, and Tolko.
The bonfire will be lit at 7:15 p.m., with the fireworks set to go off at 7:45 p.m.
The Lions Club will have hot dogs and hot chocolate available by donation.
This event is sponsored by City of Williams Lake Recreation Services, the Williams Lake Fire Department, the Lions Club, Community Policing, and Tolko.
Friday, October 23, 2015
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Oct 26-30
The following local governments will be meeting next week, as follows:
Quesnel - Committee of the Whole session on Monday, Oct 26th at 7:00pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Delegation - SkyFest 2015 for discussion
* Early Outcomes from Oct 21-22 Strategic Planning Session
* Community Event contributions
* Draft Master Parks Plan
View the full Agenda here
SD#27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Regular Board of Education meeting at 6:30pm on Tuesday, Oct 27th in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Williams Lake:
Special Council Meeting to adopt Bylaw #2238 (Permissive Property Tax Exemptions for years 2016-2025) on Tuesday, Oct 27th at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (450 Mart St - basement). Bylaw can be viewed here.
100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Oct 27th at 7pm in 100 Mile Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Cariboo Regional District:
Multi-Agency Forums -- Monday, Oct 26th from 5:30pm-7pm at the 108 Community Centre (4924 Telqua Drive & Tuesday, Oct 27th from 5:30pm-7pm at the Bouchie Lake Community Hall (1975 Centennial Rd)
Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Wednesday, Oct 27th at 2pm in the CRD Committee Room (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
*Delegations - WL RCMP/Interior Roads
* Letter to MOTI re: Portable Washroom at pullout near Reservoir Lake
* Update from Chair re: City of WL/CRD MOU
* Hours at Wildwood Transfer Station
There will also be an In-Camera Session as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter. View the full Agenda here
Central Cariboo Joint Committee - Wednesday, Oct 27th at 5pm in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue). Various items on the Agenda relating to Recreation/Arts and Culture and a discussion on CC Victim Services. View the full Agenda here
Committee of the Whole Session - Thursday, Oct 28th at 9:30am in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:
* Raising the Profile of the CRD
* Corporate Priorities Policy
* CRD 2015-2019 Strategic Plan
* Request from Director Bruce to Schedule a Special Board Meeting
* Grants for Assistance Process
* Ancillary Bylaw Amendments
* Bylaw Amendments for Secondary Suites, Carriage Houses and Secondary Dwellings
There will also be an In-Camera Session as per Section 90(1c - labour/employee relations) of the Community Charter. View the full Agenda here
Quesnel - Committee of the Whole session on Monday, Oct 26th at 7:00pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Delegation - SkyFest 2015 for discussion
* Early Outcomes from Oct 21-22 Strategic Planning Session
* Community Event contributions
* Draft Master Parks Plan
View the full Agenda here
SD#27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Regular Board of Education meeting at 6:30pm on Tuesday, Oct 27th in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Williams Lake:
Special Council Meeting to adopt Bylaw #2238 (Permissive Property Tax Exemptions for years 2016-2025) on Tuesday, Oct 27th at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (450 Mart St - basement). Bylaw can be viewed here.
100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Oct 27th at 7pm in 100 Mile Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Cariboo Regional District:
Multi-Agency Forums -- Monday, Oct 26th from 5:30pm-7pm at the 108 Community Centre (4924 Telqua Drive & Tuesday, Oct 27th from 5:30pm-7pm at the Bouchie Lake Community Hall (1975 Centennial Rd)
Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Wednesday, Oct 27th at 2pm in the CRD Committee Room (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
*Delegations - WL RCMP/Interior Roads
* Letter to MOTI re: Portable Washroom at pullout near Reservoir Lake
* Update from Chair re: City of WL/CRD MOU
* Hours at Wildwood Transfer Station
There will also be an In-Camera Session as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter. View the full Agenda here
Central Cariboo Joint Committee - Wednesday, Oct 27th at 5pm in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue). Various items on the Agenda relating to Recreation/Arts and Culture and a discussion on CC Victim Services. View the full Agenda here
Committee of the Whole Session - Thursday, Oct 28th at 9:30am in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:
* Raising the Profile of the CRD
* Corporate Priorities Policy
* CRD 2015-2019 Strategic Plan
* Request from Director Bruce to Schedule a Special Board Meeting
* Grants for Assistance Process
* Ancillary Bylaw Amendments
* Bylaw Amendments for Secondary Suites, Carriage Houses and Secondary Dwellings
There will also be an In-Camera Session as per Section 90(1c - labour/employee relations) of the Community Charter. View the full Agenda here
CRD Board Highlights - Oct 23rd mtg
Present: Chair A. Richmond; Directors Armstrong, Bruce, Massier, Forseth, Kemp, Sorley, Wagner, William, Anderson, Coakley, Sharpe, Simpson, Cobb, Campsall and Alternate Director Cash (Area I)
Meeting called to order at 9:48am
Meeting Agenda adopted/CRD Board Mtg Mins of Oct 2nd adopted
Business:
1) Delegation MOB Received
Development Services:
a) Bylaws 4971/4972 (Area L - Green Lake) was given 3rd Reading/Adoption and a letter be forwarded to the TNRD Board advising of adoption of Bylaw #4971 (Green Lake OCP Amendment Bylaw)
b) Bylaws 4784/4956 (Area A - Watkins) was adopted
c) DVP's #36-2015 (Area L) and #40-2015 (Area D) were both approved
d) ALR Application #43-2015 (Area L) was authorized for submission to the Provincial Ag Land Commission
Environmental Services:
a) Proposed Water and Sewer Projects Report was received
b) Board directed Staff to work with MSR to work on a viable water/sewer system for the Pine Crest RV Site that protects the Cariboo Regional District interests
Cariboo-Prince George MP-elect Todd Doherty briefly addressed the Board on his hope that the Cariboo Regional District and he can work together
Meeting recessed at 10:54am
Meeting resumed at 11:27am
Delegation:
Dr David Connell appeared before the Board to discuss the recent UNBC study on Agriculture Land Use Planning within the Cariboo Regional District
A question/answer period ensued
Chair Richmond, on behalf of the Board, thanked Dr. Connell for his time/information
Meeting recessed for lunch at 11:51am
Meeting resumed at 12:30pm
Finance:
a) Monthly Expenditures Report for September 2015 in the amount of $3,111,200.05 was ratified
Administration:
a) Board approved an Assent Vote be conducted for Improvements to 108 Mile Water System and appointed Alice Johnston as Chief Election Officer with Lore Schick as Deputy Chief Election Officer
b) Board authorized Letter of Support for Geoscience BC & a Letter of Support for Atlantic Power Permit Amendment Application provided it meets the Ministry of Environment standards for air emissions
c) Board received Consent Calendar as of Oct 23rd, 2015
d) Board received a letter from Hon. Shirley Bond regarding an Update from the UBCM Meeting held in Vancouver on Sept 21-25, 2015
e) Board received the Level 1 Corporate Priorities Report and authorized deleting Item 6.2 from the report and made Items 6.4, 6.5 and 6.6 as Level 2 Corporate Priority
f) Board received/endorsed the Prioritization of Board Resolutions – October 2, 2015
Corporate Bylaws:
a) Board gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings to Bylaws #4977, 4978, 4980, 4981 (103/108 Water Systems)
Directors' Reports, Requests and Appointments:
a) Board received a deferred request of Director Forseth regarding a FCM/UBCM/NCLGA Value for Money Review and that a Debrief Session be scheduled for a future Committee of the Whole Meeting to discuss the 2015 NCLGA/UBCM Conventions and how to improve the experience in 2016
b) The Board received a request from Director Forseth regarding a request to amend the APC Bylaw to change the requirement to provide comments in support of a planning application from 'required' to 'optional'
c) At the request of Directors Richmond/Forseth - Board authorized $200 from each of the Area D/G Discretionary Fund for coffee/snacks at the Central/South Multi-Agency Forums on Oct 26th/Nov 2nd
Directors' reported out on their activities in their Electoral Area or Municipality
Resolved - That Director Armstrong be authorized to attend the "Nation to Nation" forum in Terrace, BC on Nov 5th
At 1:52pm - an In-Camera meeting was convened as per Sections 90(1a,c,k - appointment,labour and negotiations) of the Community Charter
The Board resumed its' public meeting at 2:00pm
The Board adjourned its' meeting at 2:05pm
Meeting called to order at 9:48am
Meeting Agenda adopted/CRD Board Mtg Mins of Oct 2nd adopted
Business:
1) Delegation MOB Received
Development Services:
a) Bylaws 4971/4972 (Area L - Green Lake) was given 3rd Reading/Adoption and a letter be forwarded to the TNRD Board advising of adoption of Bylaw #4971 (Green Lake OCP Amendment Bylaw)
b) Bylaws 4784/4956 (Area A - Watkins) was adopted
c) DVP's #36-2015 (Area L) and #40-2015 (Area D) were both approved
d) ALR Application #43-2015 (Area L) was authorized for submission to the Provincial Ag Land Commission
Environmental Services:
a) Proposed Water and Sewer Projects Report was received
b) Board directed Staff to work with MSR to work on a viable water/sewer system for the Pine Crest RV Site that protects the Cariboo Regional District interests
Cariboo-Prince George MP-elect Todd Doherty briefly addressed the Board on his hope that the Cariboo Regional District and he can work together
Meeting recessed at 10:54am
Meeting resumed at 11:27am
Delegation:
Dr David Connell appeared before the Board to discuss the recent UNBC study on Agriculture Land Use Planning within the Cariboo Regional District
A question/answer period ensued
Chair Richmond, on behalf of the Board, thanked Dr. Connell for his time/information
Meeting recessed for lunch at 11:51am
Meeting resumed at 12:30pm
Finance:
a) Monthly Expenditures Report for September 2015 in the amount of $3,111,200.05 was ratified
Administration:
a) Board approved an Assent Vote be conducted for Improvements to 108 Mile Water System and appointed Alice Johnston as Chief Election Officer with Lore Schick as Deputy Chief Election Officer
b) Board authorized Letter of Support for Geoscience BC & a Letter of Support for Atlantic Power Permit Amendment Application provided it meets the Ministry of Environment standards for air emissions
c) Board received Consent Calendar as of Oct 23rd, 2015
d) Board received a letter from Hon. Shirley Bond regarding an Update from the UBCM Meeting held in Vancouver on Sept 21-25, 2015
e) Board received the Level 1 Corporate Priorities Report and authorized deleting Item 6.2 from the report and made Items 6.4, 6.5 and 6.6 as Level 2 Corporate Priority
f) Board received/endorsed the Prioritization of Board Resolutions – October 2, 2015
Corporate Bylaws:
a) Board gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings to Bylaws #4977, 4978, 4980, 4981 (103/108 Water Systems)
Directors' Reports, Requests and Appointments:
a) Board received a deferred request of Director Forseth regarding a FCM/UBCM/NCLGA Value for Money Review and that a Debrief Session be scheduled for a future Committee of the Whole Meeting to discuss the 2015 NCLGA/UBCM Conventions and how to improve the experience in 2016
b) The Board received a request from Director Forseth regarding a request to amend the APC Bylaw to change the requirement to provide comments in support of a planning application from 'required' to 'optional'
c) At the request of Directors Richmond/Forseth - Board authorized $200 from each of the Area D/G Discretionary Fund for coffee/snacks at the Central/South Multi-Agency Forums on Oct 26th/Nov 2nd
Directors' reported out on their activities in their Electoral Area or Municipality
Resolved - That Director Armstrong be authorized to attend the "Nation to Nation" forum in Terrace, BC on Nov 5th
The Board resumed its' public meeting at 2:00pm
The Board adjourned its' meeting at 2:05pm
CCRHD Board Highlights - Oct 23rd mtg
Present: Chair J. Massier; Directors Armstrong, Bruce, Forseth, Kemp, Sorley, Richmond, Wagner, William, Anderson, Coakley, Sharpe, Simpson, Campsall, Cobb (entered meeting at 9:37am) and Alternate Director Cash (Area I)
Meeting called to order at 9:30am
Meeting Agenda adopted/CCRHD Mtg Minutes of Oct 2nd adopted
Business:
1) The Hospital Consent Calendar was received
2) An invitation for the 12th Annual Dr. Bob Ewert Memorial Lecture and Dinner was received
3) The Board waived its' policy and approved a request from the West Chilcotin Healthcare Society for 40% support for the purchase of an AED
4) The Board received a press release from Interior Health on new urology services in 100 Mile House
The Chair gave an update on his recent activities
Meeting recessed at 9:48am
Meeting resumed at 11:05am
Delegation:
1) Debbie Strang, Quesnel Health Service Administrator from Northern Health appeared before the Board to update on health issues in the Quesnel administrative area
A Question/Answer period ensued
Chair Massier, on behalf of the Board, thanked Ms. Strang for her time/information
The Board adjourned at 11:27am
Meeting called to order at 9:30am
Meeting Agenda adopted/CCRHD Mtg Minutes of Oct 2nd adopted
Business:
1) The Hospital Consent Calendar was received
2) An invitation for the 12th Annual Dr. Bob Ewert Memorial Lecture and Dinner was received
3) The Board waived its' policy and approved a request from the West Chilcotin Healthcare Society for 40% support for the purchase of an AED
4) The Board received a press release from Interior Health on new urology services in 100 Mile House
The Chair gave an update on his recent activities
Meeting recessed at 9:48am
Meeting resumed at 11:05am
Delegation:
1) Debbie Strang, Quesnel Health Service Administrator from Northern Health appeared before the Board to update on health issues in the Quesnel administrative area
A Question/Answer period ensued
Chair Massier, on behalf of the Board, thanked Ms. Strang for her time/information
The Board adjourned at 11:27am
Thursday, October 22, 2015
BC/TNG advance Reconciliation
Courtesy of the BC Government:
The B.C. government and the Tsilhqot’in National Government have signed a letter of intent (LOI) outlining the next steps for reconciliation discussions which include: additional time for Tsilhqot’in community engagement, a detailed assessment of immediate economic opportunities, and expedited work to support moose recovery.
B.C. and the Tsilhqot’in Nation are negotiating a broader reconciliation framework agreement that lays the foundation for comprehensive and lasting reconciliation, for promoting economic development and investment in Tsilhqot’in territory and for improving the social, cultural and economic well-being of the Tsilhqot’in people.
The LOI recognizes the need for immediate steps to continue to build the trust, confidence and commitment between B.C. and the Tsilhqot’in Nation that will support the success of long-term reconciliation efforts. The LOI underscores the importance of taking concrete action to improve Tsilhqot’in participation in the economy, and create jobs and new opportunities for Tsilhqot’in community members to support healthy Tsilhqot’in communities.
In the coming weeks, B.C. and the Tsilhqot’in National Government will convene a joint working group to examine the potential of a restart of the River West Forest Products Mill and review options for supporting feasible business options on the site. The working group will be comprised of representatives from the Tsilhqot’in Nation and senior staff from provincial ministries.
The LOI supports the need for further community engagement within the Tsilhqot’in Nation about the broader reconciliation negotiations. Additionally, B.C. and the Tsilhqot’in Nation have agreed to work together to identify immediate measures to support the recovery of moose populations.
The Hon. John Rustad - BC's Minister of Aboriginal Relations/Reconciliation stated:
“B.C. and the Tsilhqot’in want to improve the quality of life for the Tsilhqot’in people as soon as possible – not in one or two generations. The letter of intent we have signed is an important part of the work we are doing to help achieve that goal. It sets out the initial steps to demonstrate the practical results that can be achieved by working together.”
Joe Alphonse - Tribal Chair of the Tsilhqot’in National Government also said:
“The next few months will allow the Nation to get a closer look at the economic opportunities on the River West site while further engaging our members and forming partnerships with the Province. A history of mistrust of B.C. is still very real for us – we are using this as a test of B.C.’s commitment to reconciliation.”
Link to Letter of Intent can be viewed here
B.C. and the Tsilhqot’in Nation are negotiating a broader reconciliation framework agreement that lays the foundation for comprehensive and lasting reconciliation, for promoting economic development and investment in Tsilhqot’in territory and for improving the social, cultural and economic well-being of the Tsilhqot’in people.
The LOI recognizes the need for immediate steps to continue to build the trust, confidence and commitment between B.C. and the Tsilhqot’in Nation that will support the success of long-term reconciliation efforts. The LOI underscores the importance of taking concrete action to improve Tsilhqot’in participation in the economy, and create jobs and new opportunities for Tsilhqot’in community members to support healthy Tsilhqot’in communities.
In the coming weeks, B.C. and the Tsilhqot’in National Government will convene a joint working group to examine the potential of a restart of the River West Forest Products Mill and review options for supporting feasible business options on the site. The working group will be comprised of representatives from the Tsilhqot’in Nation and senior staff from provincial ministries.
The LOI supports the need for further community engagement within the Tsilhqot’in Nation about the broader reconciliation negotiations. Additionally, B.C. and the Tsilhqot’in Nation have agreed to work together to identify immediate measures to support the recovery of moose populations.
The Hon. John Rustad - BC's Minister of Aboriginal Relations/Reconciliation stated:
“B.C. and the Tsilhqot’in want to improve the quality of life for the Tsilhqot’in people as soon as possible – not in one or two generations. The letter of intent we have signed is an important part of the work we are doing to help achieve that goal. It sets out the initial steps to demonstrate the practical results that can be achieved by working together.”
Joe Alphonse - Tribal Chair of the Tsilhqot’in National Government also said:
“The next few months will allow the Nation to get a closer look at the economic opportunities on the River West site while further engaging our members and forming partnerships with the Province. A history of mistrust of B.C. is still very real for us – we are using this as a test of B.C.’s commitment to reconciliation.”
Link to Letter of Intent can be viewed here
CRD Oct 22nd Finance/Budget Mtg
Present: Chair M. Wagner; Directors Armstrong, Bruce, Massier, Forseth, Kemp, Sorley, Richmond, Anderson, Coakley, Sharpe, Simpson, Cobb, Campsall and Alternate Director Cash (Area I)
Meeting called to order at 5:30pm
Meeting Agenda approved
Business:
1) The Committee reviewed/approved in principle the following Business Plans for 2016
a) Electoral Area Administration
b) Administrative Services (General Administration)
c) Governance
Resolved - That the Committee set a 2016 budgetary target of 0%, taking into consideration inflationary factors
2) The Committee received a report from the Corporate Officer concerning Sponsorship Request for the 40th Annual BC Elders Gathering in July of 2016. Approved by the following vote:
Affirmative - Directors Armstrong, Bruce, Massier, Forseth, Kemp, Richmond, Wagner, Anderson, Coakley, Sharpe, Simpson, Cobb, Campsall and Alternate Director Cash
Negative - Director Sorley
3) The Committee received a report from the CFO concerning a Community Works Funds Allocations Review and the Community Works Fund Expenditure Ratio be set at:
30% - Recreation
20% - Protective Services
15% Water
15% Sewer
20% - Other
4) The Committee received a report from the CAO concerning Directors' Remuneration and agreed to refer the Director Remuneration Bylaw to the Feb 2016 Committee of the Whole Meeting
5) The Committee received a report from the CFO concerning the Insurance Deductible Contingency Fund Policy and Staff were directed to report back on recommendations as to any changes to the Policy
6) The Committee, at the request of Director Forseth, asked UBCM to report on work done on inequality in regards to BC Hydro providing 1% of electric sales to muncipalities but not Electoral Areas
7) The Committee rejected a request of Director Forseth to ask Staff to look into the feasibility of the Cariboo Regional District doing its' own property tax notices, rather than relying on the Surveyor of Taxes
The Committee agreed to adjourn at 8:13pm
Meeting called to order at 5:30pm
Meeting Agenda approved
Business:
1) The Committee reviewed/approved in principle the following Business Plans for 2016
a) Electoral Area Administration
b) Administrative Services (General Administration)
c) Governance
Resolved - That the Committee set a 2016 budgetary target of 0%, taking into consideration inflationary factors
2) The Committee received a report from the Corporate Officer concerning Sponsorship Request for the 40th Annual BC Elders Gathering in July of 2016. Approved by the following vote:
Affirmative - Directors Armstrong, Bruce, Massier, Forseth, Kemp, Richmond, Wagner, Anderson, Coakley, Sharpe, Simpson, Cobb, Campsall and Alternate Director Cash
Negative - Director Sorley
3) The Committee received a report from the CFO concerning a Community Works Funds Allocations Review and the Community Works Fund Expenditure Ratio be set at:
30% - Recreation
20% - Protective Services
15% Water
15% Sewer
20% - Other
4) The Committee received a report from the CAO concerning Directors' Remuneration and agreed to refer the Director Remuneration Bylaw to the Feb 2016 Committee of the Whole Meeting
5) The Committee received a report from the CFO concerning the Insurance Deductible Contingency Fund Policy and Staff were directed to report back on recommendations as to any changes to the Policy
6) The Committee, at the request of Director Forseth, asked UBCM to report on work done on inequality in regards to BC Hydro providing 1% of electric sales to muncipalities but not Electoral Areas
7) The Committee rejected a request of Director Forseth to ask Staff to look into the feasibility of the Cariboo Regional District doing its' own property tax notices, rather than relying on the Surveyor of Taxes
The Committee agreed to adjourn at 8:13pm
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
WL Council Highlights - Oct 20th mtg
Present: Acting Mayor C. Smith; Councillors I. Bonnell, S. Nelson, J. Ryll, and L. Walters
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Meeting Agenda approved/Oct 6th WL City Council Meeting Minutes Adopted
Delegations/Presentations:
1) Elcy LePage & Sam McCarthy from Interior Roads appeared before Council to discuss their Winter Preparedness Program for Public Roads
A Question/Answer period ensued
Acting Mayor Smith, on behalf of Council, thanked the delegation for their presentation
2) Representatives from Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice appeared before Council to discuss the proposed Memorandum of Understanding between CIRD/City of WL
A Question/Answer period ensued
Acting Mayor Smith, on behalf of Council, thanked the delegation for their presentation
Resolved - That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #17, 2015, together with the report of the Chief Administrative Officer dated October 8, 2015 and Community Services Committee Report #07-2015, Council endorse and approve the proposed Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Williams Lake and the Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice (CIRD).
Business:
1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque listings for the periods ending September 17, 24 and October 1, 2015
2) Council, at the request of Councillor Ryll, voted to reconsider MacPine Developments Ltd. Application for Development Variance Permit for 18 Woodland Drive by the following vote:
Affirmative - Councillors Nelson, Ryll and Walters
Negative - Councillors Bonnell and Smith
Staff were also directed to re-issue public notification of the DVP Application by MacPine Developments for 18 Woodland Drive and that Council will consider the matter at their Nov 17th meeting
3) Council approved travel expenses for Mayor Cobb to attend a presentation and tour by School District No. 19 and community representatives in Revelstoke, BC on October 30, 2015.
4) Council approved the submission of an application to the Strategic Priorities Fund (SPF) program for the CN Rail Pedestrian Underpass project for a total estimated value of $1,380,304, based on up to 100% funding
5) Council gave approval for the 2015 Annual Memory Tree Celebration on Sunday, December 6, 2015 from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM at City Hall
6) Council agreed to provide a letter of support for the local branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association's Community Gaming Grant application through the Province's Gaming Policy & Enforcement Branch for their multiculturalism program and events
7) Council received a letter from the 2015 Williams Lake Terry Fox Run Committee regarding 2015 Fundraising Summary and Council thanked organizer Sheila Wyse and all the volunteers involved in making the 2015 Terry Fox Run a success and further thanked them for their volunteerism and spirit.
8) Council agreed to provide a letter of support for the Business Improvement Area's Fabulous Festivals and Events Grant application through Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) for the 2015 Winter Lights Festival
9) Late Item -- Council agreed to provide a letter of support for the WL Curling Club's Community Halls and Recreation Facilities funding application through Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) for their Energy Improvement Project.
10) Council received the 'Council Information Package' as of October 20th, as follows:
• September 2015 - Northern Region Community Relations 2015 Annual Report;
• October 7, 2015 - Interior Health re Appointment of President and Chief Executive Officer of IHA.
Members of Council reported on their recent activities
Resolved - That a letter of congratulations be forwarded to Cariboo-Prince George MP-elect Todd Doherty and that he be requested to attend a meeting with local First Nations/Cariboo Regional District in regards to renovations at the Cariboo Memorial Hospital
Meeting adjourned at 6:44pm and Council convened an In-Camera meeting as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Meeting Agenda approved/Oct 6th WL City Council Meeting Minutes Adopted
Delegations/Presentations:
1) Elcy LePage & Sam McCarthy from Interior Roads appeared before Council to discuss their Winter Preparedness Program for Public Roads
A Question/Answer period ensued
Acting Mayor Smith, on behalf of Council, thanked the delegation for their presentation
2) Representatives from Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice appeared before Council to discuss the proposed Memorandum of Understanding between CIRD/City of WL
A Question/Answer period ensued
Acting Mayor Smith, on behalf of Council, thanked the delegation for their presentation
Resolved - That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #17, 2015, together with the report of the Chief Administrative Officer dated October 8, 2015 and Community Services Committee Report #07-2015, Council endorse and approve the proposed Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Williams Lake and the Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice (CIRD).
Business:
1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque listings for the periods ending September 17, 24 and October 1, 2015
2) Council, at the request of Councillor Ryll, voted to reconsider MacPine Developments Ltd. Application for Development Variance Permit for 18 Woodland Drive by the following vote:
Affirmative - Councillors Nelson, Ryll and Walters
Negative - Councillors Bonnell and Smith
Staff were also directed to re-issue public notification of the DVP Application by MacPine Developments for 18 Woodland Drive and that Council will consider the matter at their Nov 17th meeting
3) Council approved travel expenses for Mayor Cobb to attend a presentation and tour by School District No. 19 and community representatives in Revelstoke, BC on October 30, 2015.
4) Council approved the submission of an application to the Strategic Priorities Fund (SPF) program for the CN Rail Pedestrian Underpass project for a total estimated value of $1,380,304, based on up to 100% funding
5) Council gave approval for the 2015 Annual Memory Tree Celebration on Sunday, December 6, 2015 from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM at City Hall
6) Council agreed to provide a letter of support for the local branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association's Community Gaming Grant application through the Province's Gaming Policy & Enforcement Branch for their multiculturalism program and events
7) Council received a letter from the 2015 Williams Lake Terry Fox Run Committee regarding 2015 Fundraising Summary and Council thanked organizer Sheila Wyse and all the volunteers involved in making the 2015 Terry Fox Run a success and further thanked them for their volunteerism and spirit.
8) Council agreed to provide a letter of support for the Business Improvement Area's Fabulous Festivals and Events Grant application through Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) for the 2015 Winter Lights Festival
9) Late Item -- Council agreed to provide a letter of support for the WL Curling Club's Community Halls and Recreation Facilities funding application through Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) for their Energy Improvement Project.
10) Council received the 'Council Information Package' as of October 20th, as follows:
• September 2015 - Northern Region Community Relations 2015 Annual Report;
• October 7, 2015 - Interior Health re Appointment of President and Chief Executive Officer of IHA.
Members of Council reported on their recent activities
Resolved - That a letter of congratulations be forwarded to Cariboo-Prince George MP-elect Todd Doherty and that he be requested to attend a meeting with local First Nations/Cariboo Regional District in regards to renovations at the Cariboo Memorial Hospital
Meeting adjourned at 6:44pm and Council convened an In-Camera meeting as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter
Quesnel Council Highlights - Oct 19th mtg
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
Seniors’ Affordable Housing Project
Director of Development Services Turner provided a report to Council outlining the Lion’s Club Housing Society’s application to amend land use regulations at the corner of McNaughton Avenue and Reid Street; the intended location of an affordable seniors’ housing complex. The application requests the following amendments to the land use regulations on this site:
· Permit additional density to a maximum of 201 dwelling units/ha;
· Permit a maximum coverage of approximately 79%;
· Allow a front yard setback of 3.0 metres; and
· Change the number of off-street parking spaces required to 11 spaces including one accessible stall (1 stall for every 2.7 units).
Council passed a resolution for staff to prepare draft Official Community Plan Amendments and Zoning Bylaw and requires the proponents to conduct a public consultation prior to the second reading of the proposed Bylaw amendment.
Local Services Area Policy
Council approved Local Services Policy CF-8 – A Local Area Service pursuant to Part 7, Division 5 of the Community Charter. For new municipal services that is designed to benefit a particular physical area of the municipality and is paid for in whole or in part by local property owners through a local service tax. This policy lays out the steps for a homeowner, seeking a new service, to ensure that their neighbourhood is in agreement with the proposed request and willing to assume a portion of the associated costs.
Asset Management Policy
Council approved the Asset Management Policy CF-9. This policy is essential in the City applying for grants to proactively manage our infrastructure needs.
Non-Complying Signage
Council referred discussion regarding non-complying signage at several businesses to the Policy and Bylaw Committee for review and discussion to address local business concerns with the consistent application of the signage bylaw.
NDIT – Mountain Pine Beetle Funding
The City of Quesnel is applying through the Northern Development Initiative Trust Mountain Pine Beetle Fund to assist our community with project funding, to help proactively manage our way through this transitional time.
Proclamation
· Veterans’ Days – October 30 – November 10, 2015 – Royal Canadian Legion Branch #94
Bylaws
· Bylaw 1773 – Streets, Traffic and Parking Bylaw – Repeal Third Reading AND Third Reading as Amended
· Bylaw 1774 – Municipal Ticketing Information – Repeal Third Reading AND Third Reading as Amended
· Bylaw 1775 – Group Day Care (1341 Pentland Crescent) – Final Adoption
· Bylaw 1778 – Community Theatre Statutory Reserve – Final Adoption
· Bylaw 1779 – Five Year Financial Plan Amendment – First, Second and Third Readings
· Bylaw 1780 – Comprehensive Fees and Charges Amendment – First, Second and Third Readings
Liberal Majority Gov't Elected
After all the ballots were counted -- Canadians have decided to return the Federal Liberals to power since Feb of 2006 by giving them a majority government
As of this writing, the 42nd Parliament of Canada will break down as follows:
Liberals - 183 elected (leading in 1 riding)
Conservatives - 99 elected
NDP - 43 elected (leading in 1 riding)
Bloc Quebecois - 10 elected
Green Party - 1 elected
A majority of the 338 seats up for grabs was 170 which leaves the Federal Liberals with a 13-14 seat majority. Prime Minister designate Justin Trudeau now becomes (I believe) the 2nd youngest Prime Minister of Canada at the age of 43 with former Prime Minister Joe Clark being the youngest Prime Minister ever elected at age 39 back in 1979
Closer to home -- Conservative Todd Doherty won his seat of Cariboo-Prince George, which includes Williams Lake, Quesnel, Vanderhoof, half of Prince George, Cariboo RD Areas A, B, C, D, E, F, I, J and K, Fraser-Fort George Areas C and E & Bulkley-Nechako Area F, by getting 18,743 votes vs his nearest opponent Tracy Calogheros of the Federal Liberals at 16,289 votes.
While in Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo which includes Cariboo RD Areas G, H, L and the District of 100 Mile House, Cathy MacLeod was re-elected with 24,444 votes vs her nearest opponent Bill Sandhu of the Federal NDP with 21,400 votes
I wasn't terribly shocked at the Federal Liberal win as it was noted in several places that a 4th consecutive mandate is rare in Canadian politics.
As the Cariboo Regional District Director for Area 'D' (Commodore Heights - McLeese Lake) -- I took to Facebook late Monday night to congratulate Cariboo-Prince George MP-elect Todd Doherty on his win and look forward to working with him to advance local issues on the federal scene.
The results are expected to be finalized by November 9th with the 42nd Parliament of Canada being summoned to meet on November 16th, although this could change depending on the initial plans of the new Federal Liberal government
~SF
As of this writing, the 42nd Parliament of Canada will break down as follows:
Liberals - 183 elected (leading in 1 riding)
Conservatives - 99 elected
NDP - 43 elected (leading in 1 riding)
Bloc Quebecois - 10 elected
Green Party - 1 elected
A majority of the 338 seats up for grabs was 170 which leaves the Federal Liberals with a 13-14 seat majority. Prime Minister designate Justin Trudeau now becomes (I believe) the 2nd youngest Prime Minister of Canada at the age of 43 with former Prime Minister Joe Clark being the youngest Prime Minister ever elected at age 39 back in 1979
Closer to home -- Conservative Todd Doherty won his seat of Cariboo-Prince George, which includes Williams Lake, Quesnel, Vanderhoof, half of Prince George, Cariboo RD Areas A, B, C, D, E, F, I, J and K, Fraser-Fort George Areas C and E & Bulkley-Nechako Area F, by getting 18,743 votes vs his nearest opponent Tracy Calogheros of the Federal Liberals at 16,289 votes.
While in Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo which includes Cariboo RD Areas G, H, L and the District of 100 Mile House, Cathy MacLeod was re-elected with 24,444 votes vs her nearest opponent Bill Sandhu of the Federal NDP with 21,400 votes
I wasn't terribly shocked at the Federal Liberal win as it was noted in several places that a 4th consecutive mandate is rare in Canadian politics.
As the Cariboo Regional District Director for Area 'D' (Commodore Heights - McLeese Lake) -- I took to Facebook late Monday night to congratulate Cariboo-Prince George MP-elect Todd Doherty on his win and look forward to working with him to advance local issues on the federal scene.
The results are expected to be finalized by November 9th with the 42nd Parliament of Canada being summoned to meet on November 16th, although this could change depending on the initial plans of the new Federal Liberal government
~SF
Monday, October 19, 2015
42nd Canadian General Election today!
I myself will be voting for my candidate for MP in the Federal Electoral District of Cariboo-Prince George as soon as polls open in Williams Lake at the Seniors' Activity Centre on 4th Avenue at 7am this morning with polls closing at 7pm. Unsure about your exact polling station throughout the Cariboo -- go to http://www.elections.ca/home.aspx to find out your exact voting place
Results, unlike the last election, from Eastern Canada should be available online from Elections Canada (click here) at 4pm Pacific Time with local results available (I'm guessing) from 7:30-8pm onward
Wherever your personal political choice for MP in Cariboo-Prince George, all I would ask is that you make the effort to vote... your democracy depends on it...
~SF
Friday, October 16, 2015
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Oct 19-23
The following local governments are meeting next week:
Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Monday, Oct 19th at 7pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Various Committee Reports
* SD#28 (Quesnel) - Restructure Options
* Ag Feasibility Grant
* Various 2015 UBCM Reports
* 2015-19 Financial Plan Update
* Local Area Services Proposed and Asset Management Policy
* Non-Complying Signage
* OCP Amendment -- McNaughton Avenue and Reid Street
* High Angle Rescue Contract - Dunkley Lumber
View the full Agenda here
Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Oct 20th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Ave). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Williams Lake - Regular Council on Tuesday, Oct 20th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
Delegations:
1) Elcy LePage & Sam McCarthy from Interior Roads -- Winter Preparedness Program for Public Roads
2) Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice re: MOU with City of Williams Lake
Business:
* Approve Mayor Cobb expenses to travel to Revelstoke with SD27 re: School District No. 19 (Revelstoke) Presentation & Tour
* Reconsider request from Councillor Jason Ryll re: MacPine Developments Ltd. Application for Development Variance Permit for 18 Woodland Drive
* CN Rail Pedestrian Underpass - Strategic Priorities Fund Application
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional Districts - Meetings as follows:
First Nations Relations Committee - 1pm Thursday, Oct 22nd in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Truth/Reconcilliation Commission Summary Report - Recommendations for local government
* Committee Terms of Reference
View the full Agenda here
Policy Committee -- 3pm Thursday, Oct 22nd in the CRD Boardroom. Review of Policies is the only item on the Agenda. View the full Agenda here
Budget Committee -- 5:30pm Thursday, Oct 22nd in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:
* Review 2016 Business Plans for Governance, Administration and Electoral Area Administration
* Sponsorship Request for the 40th Annual BC Elders Gathering 2016
* Community Works Funds Allocations Review
* Directors’ Remuneration - Eliminate Half-Day Rate for Board Meetings
* Insurance Deductible Contingency Fund
* BC Hydro - Grants in Lieu of Property Taxes for Electoral Areas
* Tax Requisition - Collection by Surveyor of Taxes vs Collection by Cariboo Regional District
View the full Agenda here
CC Regional Hospital District -- 9:30am on Friday, Oct 23rd in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:
* Delegation: Northern Health - Quesnel Administrator D. Strang
* Hospital Consent Calendar
* UNBC - 12th Annual Dr. Bob Ewert Memorial Lecture and Dinner
* Funding Request from the West Chilcotin Healthcare Society
View the full Agenda here
CRD Board - 9:45am on Friday, Oct 23rd in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:
* Delegation - Dr. David J. Connell, Associate Professor, Ecosystem Science and Management,UNBC (via teleconference) to discuss recently completed Agriculture Land Protection Study within the Cariboo RD
Business:
* Various Planning Matters
* Second Request from Fir Crest RV Resort for CRD to Assume Ownership of its Water and Wastewater Utility (Staff recommend rejection)
* Request to Conduct Assent Vote for Improvements to 108 Mile Water System
* Request for Support Letter - Geoscience BC
* Request for Support for Atlantic Power Permit Amendment Application
* Consent Calendar
* Letter from Shirley Bond re: 2015 UBCM Meeting
* Level 1 Corporate Priorities Report
* Bylaws for 103 Water System - Establishment/Loan Authorization
* 108 Mile Water Service Amendment Bylaw
* 108 Mile Water Service Improvement Loan Authorization Bylaw
* Resume discussion from Oct 2nd - FCM/UBCM/NCLGA Value for Money Review, Item from Director Forseth
* Request from Director Forseth - Amend APC Bylaw to remove requirement for EA APC's to provide comments in support of planning applications
* Request from Director Richmond - Request for $200 from Area G Discretionary Fund for South Cariboo Multi-Agency Forum
There will also be an In-Camera Meeting as per Sections 90(1a,c, k - appointment, labour and negotiations) of the Community Charter
View the full Agenda here
~SF
Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Monday, Oct 19th at 7pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Various Committee Reports
* SD#28 (Quesnel) - Restructure Options
* Ag Feasibility Grant
* Various 2015 UBCM Reports
* 2015-19 Financial Plan Update
* Local Area Services Proposed and Asset Management Policy
* Non-Complying Signage
* OCP Amendment -- McNaughton Avenue and Reid Street
* High Angle Rescue Contract - Dunkley Lumber
View the full Agenda here
Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Oct 20th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Ave). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Williams Lake - Regular Council on Tuesday, Oct 20th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
Delegations:
1) Elcy LePage & Sam McCarthy from Interior Roads -- Winter Preparedness Program for Public Roads
2) Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice re: MOU with City of Williams Lake
Business:
* Approve Mayor Cobb expenses to travel to Revelstoke with SD27 re: School District No. 19 (Revelstoke) Presentation & Tour
* Reconsider request from Councillor Jason Ryll re: MacPine Developments Ltd. Application for Development Variance Permit for 18 Woodland Drive
* CN Rail Pedestrian Underpass - Strategic Priorities Fund Application
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional Districts - Meetings as follows:
First Nations Relations Committee - 1pm Thursday, Oct 22nd in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Truth/Reconcilliation Commission Summary Report - Recommendations for local government
* Committee Terms of Reference
View the full Agenda here
Policy Committee -- 3pm Thursday, Oct 22nd in the CRD Boardroom. Review of Policies is the only item on the Agenda. View the full Agenda here
Budget Committee -- 5:30pm Thursday, Oct 22nd in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:
* Review 2016 Business Plans for Governance, Administration and Electoral Area Administration
* Sponsorship Request for the 40th Annual BC Elders Gathering 2016
* Community Works Funds Allocations Review
* Directors’ Remuneration - Eliminate Half-Day Rate for Board Meetings
* Insurance Deductible Contingency Fund
* BC Hydro - Grants in Lieu of Property Taxes for Electoral Areas
* Tax Requisition - Collection by Surveyor of Taxes vs Collection by Cariboo Regional District
View the full Agenda here
CC Regional Hospital District -- 9:30am on Friday, Oct 23rd in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:
* Delegation: Northern Health - Quesnel Administrator D. Strang
* Hospital Consent Calendar
* UNBC - 12th Annual Dr. Bob Ewert Memorial Lecture and Dinner
* Funding Request from the West Chilcotin Healthcare Society
View the full Agenda here
CRD Board - 9:45am on Friday, Oct 23rd in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:
* Delegation - Dr. David J. Connell, Associate Professor, Ecosystem Science and Management,UNBC (via teleconference) to discuss recently completed Agriculture Land Protection Study within the Cariboo RD
Business:
* Various Planning Matters
* Second Request from Fir Crest RV Resort for CRD to Assume Ownership of its Water and Wastewater Utility (Staff recommend rejection)
* Request to Conduct Assent Vote for Improvements to 108 Mile Water System
* Request for Support Letter - Geoscience BC
* Request for Support for Atlantic Power Permit Amendment Application
* Consent Calendar
* Letter from Shirley Bond re: 2015 UBCM Meeting
* Level 1 Corporate Priorities Report
* Bylaws for 103 Water System - Establishment/Loan Authorization
* 108 Mile Water Service Amendment Bylaw
* 108 Mile Water Service Improvement Loan Authorization Bylaw
* Resume discussion from Oct 2nd - FCM/UBCM/NCLGA Value for Money Review, Item from Director Forseth
* Request from Director Forseth - Amend APC Bylaw to remove requirement for EA APC's to provide comments in support of planning applications
* Request from Director Richmond - Request for $200 from Area G Discretionary Fund for South Cariboo Multi-Agency Forum
There will also be an In-Camera Meeting as per Sections 90(1a,c, k - appointment, labour and negotiations) of the Community Charter
View the full Agenda here
~SF
2nd Annual Quesnel Business Walk
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
To recognize Small Business Month this year, Quesnel’s Economic Development team is proud to be organizing the 2nd Annual Quesnel Business Walks which will take place on October 27th and 30th. Quesnel was one of the first communities in British Columbia to implement this program which has now received province wide attention and is recognized as an Economic Development Best Practice by the Provincial Government. The Business Walks program offers an excellent opportunity for organizations who serve the business community to listen to local business owners, identify common themes for action and bring together educational resources and municipal and provincial services for specific action plans.
Along with Economic Development staff from the City of Quesnel and Cariboo Regional District, the Quesnel and District Chamber of Commerce, Community Futures North Cariboo, Quesnel Downtown Business Association, South Quesnel Business Association, Mayor Bob Simpson and members of Council, and MLA Coralee Oakes are participating as volunteer walkers. All volunteers have a vested interest in the success of small businesses and are enthusiastic about the opportunity to talk one-on-one with Quesnel entrepreneurs.
“A healthy and entrepreneurial business sector is vital to our community’s future,” said Quesnel Mayor Simpson. “Annual Business Walks allow us to better understand what these significant local employers need to maximize their business opportunities, job creation potential, and contribution to our local and regional economy.”
Over the course of the day, small teams of volunteers will walk from business to business to ask a few questions of business owners or managers. The questions are meant to keep the visit brief and very conversational. The goal will be to identify successes and obstacles that face the business community within Quesnel and the North Cariboo region and as a means to help businesses stay in the community and grow. Following the Business Walks, Economic Development staff will use the information gathered to prioritize projects and provide one on one support to businesses as needed.
“Economic Development goes beyond investment attraction and must include business retention and expansion,” said Amy Reid, Economic Development Officer. “The Business Walks are a great way to hear about the challenges and successes of our current business community so that we can work to address these issues for existing and prospective businesses alike.”
Last year, the Business Walks program in Quesnel was a great success and welcomed by the business community. During the 2014 Business Walks, business owners identified “Location” as one of the top reasons why they chose Quesnel and 84% of businesses reported a positive outlook. These statistics were highlighted in an Investment Attraction video that was produced by the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training in partnership with Economic Development. Quesnel’s new Relocation Guide was also developed after the 2014 Business Walks to assist businesses in attracting skilled employees. Reports were shared with participating organizations to assist them in their strategic planning.
The 2014 Business Walks reports, Investment Attraction video and Quesnel’s Relocation Guide can be viewed on the Economic Development website www.quesnelinfo.com. Businesses are encouraged to share the Relocation Guide with employment candidates and in job postings. If you would like more information or to register your business to participate in this program, please contact Rhonda Gutoski by email at rgutoski@quesnel.ca or call 250-991-7449.
To recognize Small Business Month this year, Quesnel’s Economic Development team is proud to be organizing the 2nd Annual Quesnel Business Walks which will take place on October 27th and 30th. Quesnel was one of the first communities in British Columbia to implement this program which has now received province wide attention and is recognized as an Economic Development Best Practice by the Provincial Government. The Business Walks program offers an excellent opportunity for organizations who serve the business community to listen to local business owners, identify common themes for action and bring together educational resources and municipal and provincial services for specific action plans.
Along with Economic Development staff from the City of Quesnel and Cariboo Regional District, the Quesnel and District Chamber of Commerce, Community Futures North Cariboo, Quesnel Downtown Business Association, South Quesnel Business Association, Mayor Bob Simpson and members of Council, and MLA Coralee Oakes are participating as volunteer walkers. All volunteers have a vested interest in the success of small businesses and are enthusiastic about the opportunity to talk one-on-one with Quesnel entrepreneurs.
“A healthy and entrepreneurial business sector is vital to our community’s future,” said Quesnel Mayor Simpson. “Annual Business Walks allow us to better understand what these significant local employers need to maximize their business opportunities, job creation potential, and contribution to our local and regional economy.”
Over the course of the day, small teams of volunteers will walk from business to business to ask a few questions of business owners or managers. The questions are meant to keep the visit brief and very conversational. The goal will be to identify successes and obstacles that face the business community within Quesnel and the North Cariboo region and as a means to help businesses stay in the community and grow. Following the Business Walks, Economic Development staff will use the information gathered to prioritize projects and provide one on one support to businesses as needed.
“Economic Development goes beyond investment attraction and must include business retention and expansion,” said Amy Reid, Economic Development Officer. “The Business Walks are a great way to hear about the challenges and successes of our current business community so that we can work to address these issues for existing and prospective businesses alike.”
Last year, the Business Walks program in Quesnel was a great success and welcomed by the business community. During the 2014 Business Walks, business owners identified “Location” as one of the top reasons why they chose Quesnel and 84% of businesses reported a positive outlook. These statistics were highlighted in an Investment Attraction video that was produced by the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training in partnership with Economic Development. Quesnel’s new Relocation Guide was also developed after the 2014 Business Walks to assist businesses in attracting skilled employees. Reports were shared with participating organizations to assist them in their strategic planning.
The 2014 Business Walks reports, Investment Attraction video and Quesnel’s Relocation Guide can be viewed on the Economic Development website www.quesnelinfo.com. Businesses are encouraged to share the Relocation Guide with employment candidates and in job postings. If you would like more information or to register your business to participate in this program, please contact Rhonda Gutoski by email at rgutoski@quesnel.ca or call 250-991-7449.
CRD hosts Multi-Agency Forums
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
The Cariboo Regional District announced today that it will be hosting a series of informal community forums in the South, Central and North Cariboo where residents will have the opportunity to stop by in a casual setting and meet with their Electoral Area Directors and CRD staff, along with other agencies to discuss issues specific to their community. Representatives will be on hand from various government ministries and services agencies such as Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, the Cariboo Fire Centre, RCMP, BC Emergency Health Services and more.
The Cariboo Regional District announced today that it will be hosting a series of informal community forums in the South, Central and North Cariboo where residents will have the opportunity to stop by in a casual setting and meet with their Electoral Area Directors and CRD staff, along with other agencies to discuss issues specific to their community. Representatives will be on hand from various government ministries and services agencies such as Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, the Cariboo Fire Centre, RCMP, BC Emergency Health Services and more.
The Community Forums replace the traditional Town Hall Meetings and are based on feedback received from residents who attended last year’s sessions.
“We have developed this new public engagement process in an effort to meet the needs of our residents,” states CRD Chair Al Richmond. “At our former Town Hall Meetings we were frequently asked questions that would have been best answered by the agencies who deal with the specific issues. By bringing these agencies together, we have created a one-stop shop for residents who can visit each booth to speak directly with the appropriate agency."
The forums will take place as follows:
South Cariboo
Monday, October 26th, 5:30 -7 p.m.
108 Mile Ranch Community Centre,
4924 Telqua Drive, 108 Mile Ranch
North Cariboo
Tuesday, October 27th, 5:30 - 7 p.m.
Bouchie Lake Community Hall,
1975 Centennial Road, Bouchie Lake
Central Cariboo
Monday, November 2nd, 5:30-7 p.m.
McLeese Lake Community Hall,
6178 Forglen Road, McLeese Lake
Further information can be found online at cariboord.ca or Facebook at facebook.com/CaribooRegion.
The Cariboo Regional District currently provides more than 100 local government services to taxpayers including fire protection, land-use planning, solid waste management, and invasive plant management as well as libraries and recreation facilities.
Thursday, October 15, 2015
WL Federal All Candidates Forum
With Monday's Federal Election Vote - a packed house came out to hear from the candidates which was co-sponsored by the WL and District Chamber of Commerce and the Northern BC Real Estate Board
All parties were represented including the Conservatives, Liberals, Greens, NDP, Christian Heritage Party, Apolitical candidate Gordon Campbell and Independent Sheldon Clare
MC (and WL City Councillor) Jason Ryll had his hands full keeping control of the meeting when Apolitical Candidate Gordon Campbell (no relation to former BC Premier Gordon Campbell) became rude at times and the crowd groaned at his many verbal outbursts
After a initial 2 minute opening statement by all candidates. Questions asked included:
* Integrity of a Member of Parliament
* TPP (Trans-Pacific Partnership)
* Protection of Agriculture Land/Supply Management
* First Nations Health/Education and Youth
* Softwood Lumber Agreement
* Economic Development Policies
* Personal taxation Environment
* Small Business Policies
* Environmental Policies
I personally asked Conservative Todd Doherty, Trent Derrick of the NDP and Tracy Calogheros of the Liberals in regards to local government grants, particularly for Regional Districts (like the Cariboo Regional District) which is increasingly taking on more private water systems and don't have the financial backing of Ottawa because infrastructure grants were designed for urban settings and not rural ones. Particularly in light of Mountview wanting to have a community water system and being rejected by Ottawa 3 consecutive times that the CRD has applied for a grant. All Candidates concurred infrastructure grants must work for ALL local governments and not just urban ones...
Then a 3 minute closing statement was given by all candidates
While there is no change of Gordon Campbell being elected Monday - it seemed to me that the race really came down to Trent Derrick (NDP) vs Todd Doherty (Conservative)
We'll see Monday night if Mr. Derrick or Mr. Doherty will be the new MP for Cariboo-Prince George
~SF
Then a 3 minute closing statement was given by all candidates
While there is no change of Gordon Campbell being elected Monday - it seemed to me that the race really came down to Trent Derrick (NDP) vs Todd Doherty (Conservative)
We'll see Monday night if Mr. Derrick or Mr. Doherty will be the new MP for Cariboo-Prince George
~SF
Tuesday, October 13, 2015
WL Council-in-Committee - Oct 13th mtg
Present - Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors I. Bonnell, S. Nelson, J. Ryll, C. Smith, L. Walters and S. Zacharias
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Meeting Agenda/COW Mins of Sept 29th meeting adopted
Delegations - None
Business:
Councillor Walters declared a conflict on the next item as she works for the Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice and left the meeting at 6:01pm
1) Proposed MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) between Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice & City of WL
A report from the Community Services Committee was presented
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the Committee recommend:
Council endorse the proposed Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Williams Lake and the Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice
Councillor Walters returned to the meeting at 6:02pm
2) Review of Proclamation Requests
A report from the Manager of Legislative Services was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the Committee recommend:
Council maintain the current Proclamation Policy practice with the Proclamation Policy being updated to reflect Section 8 of the Human Rights Act (non-discrimination requirement)
Approved by the following vote:
Affirmative - Mayor Cobb; Councillors Bonnell, Nelson, and Zacharias
Negative - Councillors Ryll, Smith and Walters
3) Proposed MOU between Cariboo Regional District/City of Williams Lake
A proposed MOU between Cariboo Regional District/City of Williams Lake was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the proposed MOU be referred back to Staff to clarify:
* Costs for Proposed Service Agreements in Section 4 of the proposed MOU (i.e.: Recreation/Solid Waste)
* Voting at Central Cariboo/City of Williams Lake Joint Committee meetings
And Staff report back at a future Committee of the Whole meeting
Meeting adjourned at 6:55pm & an In-Camera (closed to the public) Council-in-Committee Session was then convened as per Sections 90(1e/k - land/negotiations) of the Community Charter
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Meeting Agenda/COW Mins of Sept 29th meeting adopted
Delegations - None
Business:
Councillor Walters declared a conflict on the next item as she works for the Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice and left the meeting at 6:01pm
1) Proposed MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) between Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice & City of WL
A report from the Community Services Committee was presented
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the Committee recommend:
Council endorse the proposed Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Williams Lake and the Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice
Councillor Walters returned to the meeting at 6:02pm
2) Review of Proclamation Requests
A report from the Manager of Legislative Services was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the Committee recommend:
Council maintain the current Proclamation Policy practice with the Proclamation Policy being updated to reflect Section 8 of the Human Rights Act (non-discrimination requirement)
Approved by the following vote:
Affirmative - Mayor Cobb; Councillors Bonnell, Nelson, and Zacharias
Negative - Councillors Ryll, Smith and Walters
3) Proposed MOU between Cariboo Regional District/City of Williams Lake
A proposed MOU between Cariboo Regional District/City of Williams Lake was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the proposed MOU be referred back to Staff to clarify:
* Costs for Proposed Service Agreements in Section 4 of the proposed MOU (i.e.: Recreation/Solid Waste)
* Voting at Central Cariboo/City of Williams Lake Joint Committee meetings
And Staff report back at a future Committee of the Whole meeting
Meeting adjourned at 6:55pm & an In-Camera (closed to the public) Council-in-Committee Session was then convened as per Sections 90(1e/k - land/negotiations) of the Community Charter
Williams Lake students to benefit from Innovation Partnership project
Courtesy of the BC Government Caucus:
The world of education is changing and students at Skyline Offsite Alternate School in Williams Lake will benefit from innovative concepts being put into practice by teachers and administrators.
The program will guide students through culturally relevant project-based learning, encourage First Nations elder and community involvement, and make cultural activities a significant and integrated part of work and curriculum in high school with a goal of creating culturally empowered graduates ready for post-secondary or community leadership experiences.
“We want our students to be equipped with the skills they need to be successful in life,” Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett said. “Bringing cultural values into the classroom will benefit students.”
“Incorporating First Nations culture into Skyline Alternate School will improve our education system and further strengthen student success,” Cariboo North MLA Coralee Oakes said.
The project at Skyline Offsite Alternate School is one of the first 17 projects that will receive support under K-12 Innovation Partnership projects.
“We are aiming to keep more students connected to school,” School District 27 superintendent and CEO Mark Thiessen said. “Skyline Alternate School is doing this by developing a program that will holistically weave First Nations culture and traditions into existing provincially recognized courses to nurture a sense of belonging in at-risk students. The program will guide students through culturally relevant project-based learning, encourage First Nations elder and community involvement, and make cultural activities a significant and an integrated part of the daily curriculum.”
The K-12 Innovation Partnership gives public and independent schools the opportunity – and support – to explore new programs and practices to help students and teachers succeed. The selected projects complement the new K-12 curriculum being phased in over the next three years and focus on:
· enhanced hands-on, project-based learning
· supports for vulnerable and/or at-risk students
· Aboriginal learning
· science and technology
· reporting and assessment practices.
The 17 projects from throughout the province were selected by the Innovation Partnership Working Group (IPWG), a collaboration of education partners including the BC Teachers’ Federation, BC Schools Superintendents Association, BC Principals’ and Vice-Principals’ Association, the Federation of Independent School Associations of BC and the Ministry of Education.
Each project will receive $8,000 in financial support for teacher release time, research, and project expenses, plus there will be opportunities for project teams to collaborate with colleagues and explore how these innovative concepts could be adopted by other school districts.
A second intake for the Innovation Partnership will be announced later this fall, and schools are encouraged to continue to submit proposals for consideration.
Quick Facts:
· The working group received 77 project proposals for the first intake of the Innovation Partnership.
· Proposals were received from 33 school districts and 19 independent schools.
· The IPWG will be bringing teams from each project together twice during the year to discuss their innovations.
· The Innovation Partnership is a key component of the K-12 Innovation Strategy announced at the ‘BC’s Focus on Learning’ forum in January 2015.
Learn More:
Cowichan Valley RD works towards new Regional Arts/Culture Service
Back in June of this year - the Cowichan Valley Regional District Board (CVRD) agreed to propose to the public a region-wide Arts/Culture Service with a maximum budget of $130,000 and a property tax implication of $0.85 per $100,000 assessed property value for the 9 Electoral Areas + 4 Municipalities of the CVRD
Public assent for this Function is being sought via the Alternative Approval Process (counter-petition) with a deadline of Wednesday, November 18th to return AAP forms opposing the initiative. 6,038 voters from both the 9 Electoral Areas + 4 Municipalities would have to submit opposing AAP Forms in order for the CVRD Board to be legally blocked from proceeding unless a referendum is conducted. Details on the proposed CVRD Regional Arts/Culture Service may be viewed here
If the Function is formally established by the end of this year - the CVRD will join other regional districts in BC like the Cariboo Regional District and Comox Valley Regional District in providing local tax dollars to local arts/culture groups.
Meanwhile - also in the CVRD, a very public debate is occurring in regards to a new Staff position that the CVRD Board rejected in budget discussions earlier this year. Former Electoral Area 'C' CVRD Director (1994-2002) and now Cowichan Valley political blogger Richard Hughes writes on this subject here in addition to the local newspaper South Cowichan Echo who also wrote on this subject last month which you can read here (go to Page 2)
There is a long standing rule in local government that a CAO (Chief Administrative Officer) has the discretion on how Staffing is established and is administratively organized for a Regional District/Municipality, but both must fit within the annual approved budget, and should an elected official(s) of a Regional District/Municipality disagree, either on staffing concerns or how their local government is administratively organized - firstly, they should request a private 1-on-1 meeting with the local government CAO and if they are still dissatisfied - then they should bring it up at an In-Camera (closed to the public) Meeting as discussions around local government staffing concerns are traditionally held behind closed doors and then the elected official(s) leave it there and not continue the debate in public...
To continue to do so, in the case of the Cowichan Valley Regional District and in my opinion, does not build the kind of professional relationship that a Board/Council and the CAO needs to have to effectively govern the Regional District or Municipality in the best interests of the constituents of that Regional District/Municipality
~SF
Public assent for this Function is being sought via the Alternative Approval Process (counter-petition) with a deadline of Wednesday, November 18th to return AAP forms opposing the initiative. 6,038 voters from both the 9 Electoral Areas + 4 Municipalities would have to submit opposing AAP Forms in order for the CVRD Board to be legally blocked from proceeding unless a referendum is conducted. Details on the proposed CVRD Regional Arts/Culture Service may be viewed here
If the Function is formally established by the end of this year - the CVRD will join other regional districts in BC like the Cariboo Regional District and Comox Valley Regional District in providing local tax dollars to local arts/culture groups.
Meanwhile - also in the CVRD, a very public debate is occurring in regards to a new Staff position that the CVRD Board rejected in budget discussions earlier this year. Former Electoral Area 'C' CVRD Director (1994-2002) and now Cowichan Valley political blogger Richard Hughes writes on this subject here in addition to the local newspaper South Cowichan Echo who also wrote on this subject last month which you can read here (go to Page 2)
There is a long standing rule in local government that a CAO (Chief Administrative Officer) has the discretion on how Staffing is established and is administratively organized for a Regional District/Municipality, but both must fit within the annual approved budget, and should an elected official(s) of a Regional District/Municipality disagree, either on staffing concerns or how their local government is administratively organized - firstly, they should request a private 1-on-1 meeting with the local government CAO and if they are still dissatisfied - then they should bring it up at an In-Camera (closed to the public) Meeting as discussions around local government staffing concerns are traditionally held behind closed doors and then the elected official(s) leave it there and not continue the debate in public...
To continue to do so, in the case of the Cowichan Valley Regional District and in my opinion, does not build the kind of professional relationship that a Board/Council and the CAO needs to have to effectively govern the Regional District or Municipality in the best interests of the constituents of that Regional District/Municipality
~SF
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)