Yesterday - the House of Commons approved appointments of Members of Parliament (MP) to House Standing Committees. Local MP's Todd Doherty (Cariboo-Prince George) & Cathy MacLeod (Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo) were appointed to the following Committees:
Todd Doherty:
Standing Joint Committee (House/Senate) on the Library of Parliament
Cathy MacLeod:
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development
MP's MacLeod/Doherty were also appointed as Associate Members to the various House Committees which allows them to act in the place of the duly appointed member to the House Standing Committees, as necessary. More details on an Associate Member can be viewed here
Congrats to MP's Doherty/MacLeod on your new Committee assignments
~SF
Saturday, January 30, 2016
Friday, January 29, 2016
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Feb 1-5
With most of the Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area Directors in Richmond, BC from Feb 2-5 for both the Electoral Area Directors' Annual Forum/Local Government Leadership Academy Forum 2016 - the Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake Municipal Councils' and the District of Wells Council will be holding meetings next week as follows:
Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Feb 2nd at 7pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
Delegation -- Mt Polley Operations/Water Release(s) Update - Don Parson, Chief Operating Officer, and Dr. Lyn Anglin, Chief Scientific Officer
Business:
* Various Committee Reports
* Open House Public Feedback - New Public Works Facility
* 2016 Capital Budget Overview
* Building Permit and Tipping Fees - Arena Replacement Project
* Co-signed letter by Mayor Simpson/CCRHD Chair Massier to BC Emergency Health Services - Request for Consideration for Community Paramedicine Program in Quesnel and Area
* Lhtako Dene First Nation - Follow Up Letter to Minister Polak - Lack of Consultation - Mt Polley
View the full Agenda here
Wells - Committee of the Whole Meeting on Tuesday, Feb 2nd at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Ave) . When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole Meeting on Tuesday, Feb 2nd at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (450 Mart St, Basement). On the Agenda:
* Road Closure and Sale at Sixth Avenue South (near Home Hardware)
* BeautyCouncil Western Canada
View the full Agenda here
Upon my return from Richmond - I will publish a Post Event report on my time at both the Electoral Area Directors' Forum/Local Gov't Leadership Academy event - both here on the blog site and on my Steve Forseth - CRD Area 'D' Director Facebook page here
Community Events this weekend/next week:
* Williams Lake Winter Carnival - Saturday, Jan 30th/Sunday, Jan 31st - more details here
* Cariboo Challenge Dog Race in 100 Mile House - Friday, Jan 29th to Sunday, Jan 31st - read here
Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Feb 2nd at 7pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
Delegation -- Mt Polley Operations/Water Release(s) Update - Don Parson, Chief Operating Officer, and Dr. Lyn Anglin, Chief Scientific Officer
Business:
* Various Committee Reports
* Open House Public Feedback - New Public Works Facility
* 2016 Capital Budget Overview
* Building Permit and Tipping Fees - Arena Replacement Project
* Co-signed letter by Mayor Simpson/CCRHD Chair Massier to BC Emergency Health Services - Request for Consideration for Community Paramedicine Program in Quesnel and Area
* Lhtako Dene First Nation - Follow Up Letter to Minister Polak - Lack of Consultation - Mt Polley
View the full Agenda here
Wells - Committee of the Whole Meeting on Tuesday, Feb 2nd at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Ave) . When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole Meeting on Tuesday, Feb 2nd at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (450 Mart St, Basement). On the Agenda:
* Road Closure and Sale at Sixth Avenue South (near Home Hardware)
* BeautyCouncil Western Canada
View the full Agenda here
Upon my return from Richmond - I will publish a Post Event report on my time at both the Electoral Area Directors' Forum/Local Gov't Leadership Academy event - both here on the blog site and on my Steve Forseth - CRD Area 'D' Director Facebook page here
Community Events this weekend/next week:
* Williams Lake Winter Carnival - Saturday, Jan 30th/Sunday, Jan 31st - more details here
* Cariboo Challenge Dog Race in 100 Mile House - Friday, Jan 29th to Sunday, Jan 31st - read here
2016 Quesnel Façade Grant Application
From the City of Quesnel website:
Attention Business/Non-Profit Organizations! Apply for a Façade Grant Today!
The 2015 Business Façade Improvement Program has been a success! Façade improvement projects in Development Permit Areas of the City (see map below) may be eligible for 50% reimbursement of the project cost, up to a maximum of $5,000 per project. To apply, please complete the application form below and contact the City Planner, Urszula Walus at uwalus@quesnel.ca or call 250-992-2111 to discuss your project.
Apply for funding as soon as possible as funds are limited!
Thursday, January 28, 2016
Update on Propane Tank Fee Story
After Williams Lake City Councillor Scott Nelson raised concerns around proposed propane tank permit fees for commercial/industrial to be brought in as of Feb 1st yesterday - the proposed fees have been placed 'on hold'
More from the Williams Lake Tribune here
More from the Williams Lake Tribune here
Please respect Emcon Services provision of sand to McLeese Lake residents...
Via McLeese Lake News/Events Facebook Page:
IMPORTANT NOTICE, PLEASE READ!!!
Just got off the phone with EMCON, and they have delivered another load of sand to our pile by the skating rink at the hall. He asked me to please ask the community to 'only take what you need, and only what you can spread on your driveway using a hand shovel.'
I guess he's noticed that some driveways are over-sanded, and he's worried, (and so am I), that if we abuse this kind gesture, that they will not be able to keep it up. Please remember that they are providing the sand for free to the community, and that the supply is not endless.
Thanks everybody, for cooperating. I would really hate to lose this privilege as I think it is invaluable, specially with the weather we are currently getting.
The 2016 Quesnel Winter Carnival is Sure to Please
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
The Winter Carnival will be ready to go on Saturday, Feb. 6 from noon to 5:30 p.m. with more fun and activities for everyone! This community event is hosted by the Cariboo Regional District and the City of Quesnel with the support of many of our local sponsors. A sincere thank you to those sponsors for their support who include A & W Restaurants, Baker Creek Enhancement Society, Fortis BC, McDonald’s Restaurants, Quesnel and District Arts Council, Quesnel Cariboo Observer, Save-on-Foods, Shaw, Telus, and West Fraser Mills.
A special thank you to the City’s Public Works Department, the Quesnel Volunteer Fire Department and their volunteers for the numerous hours spent on preparing the West Fraser Timber Park for the carnival.
There will be more family fun, more prizes and more fireworks! Once again, we will have our Seniors’ Warming Tent manned by the Lions Club. Seniors can drop in for a hot cocoa and a game of checkers. Lots of opportunities to try cross country skiing, snow shoeing, sledding, find the avalanche beacon and back this year is geo caching! You are invited to bring your own equipment or are welcome to borrow ours. The crazy toque is back by popular demand and we will supply the toque courtesy of Shaw.
Everyone is invited to enjoy free hot and cold beverages and popular snacks. Visit with some of our local mascots, Billy Barker, the Root Beer Bear, the RCMP Safety Bear, Spa Bear and Sparky. Be sure to bring your camera.
Pick up your free tickets at the gate from the Scotiabank folks when you come into the park and drop your tickets off in any one of the eight prize draw barrels around the carnival site. We have two Grand Prize Packages this year and many draws. The day ends with a fireworks display you won't want to miss.
Bundle up, bring your travel mug and we'll see you on Saturday, Feb. 6 at the West Fraser Timber Park for our annual Winter Carnival. This is how Quesnel celebrates winter; in true Cariboo style!
For more information, call 250-992-8200, or check out the Quesnel Winter Carnival page on Facebook at facebook.com/quesnelwintercarnival.
Input sought on 100 Mile House old growth management
Courtesy of the BC Government:
British Columbians are invited to comment on proposed amendments to the boundaries of about 375 existing old growth management areas within the 100 Mile House Natural Resource District.
Old growth management areas help protect the biological diversity of old-growth forests by ensuring that stands of different ecosystem types are protected. These areas are excluded from commercial timber harvesting, which helps preserve plant ecosystems, wildlife habitat and cultural values.
The proposed amendments to the old growth management areas are to replace areas that have been impacted by the mountain pine beetle and associated harvesting of trees infested by mountain pine beetles.
In addition, the amount and distribution of old growth management areas are determined by ecosystem mapping. The boundaries of the relevant ecosystem units have been updated since these old growth management areas were originally mapped in 2002. This has affected their distribution and percent target requirements, so the proposed boundary amendments would correct those discrepancies.
Maps showing the proposed OGMA boundary amendments may be viewed at the 100 Mile House Natural Resource District office in 100 Mile House (300 Cariboo Highway 97) or online at:
https://www.for.gov.bc.ca/TASB/SLRP/100_Mile_House__LUOR_OGMA_Amendment.html
Members of the public are invited to submit comments about the proposed boundary amendments for these old growth management areas during a 60-day review and comment period that ends on March 31, 2016.
Written comments may be sent to:
“OGMA Comments”
100 Mile House Natural Resource District,
P.O. Box 129, 100 Mile House, B.C., V0K 2E0
Comments may also be emailed to: DMHOGMAcomments@gov.bc.ca
Quick Facts:
Currently, there are over 49,000 old growth management areas in B.C., covering almost 3.1 million hectares.
A total of about 4.5 million hectares of old-growth forest are protected within old growth management areas, provincial parks, national parks, ecological reserves, land conservancies and recreational areas in British Columbia.
The 100 Mile House Natural Resource District covers about 1.24 million hectares of land in the southern Interior. It extends from Clinton in the south to Hendrix Lake in the north and from the Fraser River in the west to Bonaparte Lake in the east.
British Columbians are invited to comment on proposed amendments to the boundaries of about 375 existing old growth management areas within the 100 Mile House Natural Resource District.
Old growth management areas help protect the biological diversity of old-growth forests by ensuring that stands of different ecosystem types are protected. These areas are excluded from commercial timber harvesting, which helps preserve plant ecosystems, wildlife habitat and cultural values.
The proposed amendments to the old growth management areas are to replace areas that have been impacted by the mountain pine beetle and associated harvesting of trees infested by mountain pine beetles.
In addition, the amount and distribution of old growth management areas are determined by ecosystem mapping. The boundaries of the relevant ecosystem units have been updated since these old growth management areas were originally mapped in 2002. This has affected their distribution and percent target requirements, so the proposed boundary amendments would correct those discrepancies.
Maps showing the proposed OGMA boundary amendments may be viewed at the 100 Mile House Natural Resource District office in 100 Mile House (300 Cariboo Highway 97) or online at:
https://www.for.gov.bc.ca/TASB/SLRP/100_Mile_House__LUOR_OGMA_Amendment.html
Members of the public are invited to submit comments about the proposed boundary amendments for these old growth management areas during a 60-day review and comment period that ends on March 31, 2016.
Written comments may be sent to:
“OGMA Comments”
100 Mile House Natural Resource District,
P.O. Box 129, 100 Mile House, B.C., V0K 2E0
Comments may also be emailed to: DMHOGMAcomments@gov.bc.ca
Quick Facts:
Currently, there are over 49,000 old growth management areas in B.C., covering almost 3.1 million hectares.
A total of about 4.5 million hectares of old-growth forest are protected within old growth management areas, provincial parks, national parks, ecological reserves, land conservancies and recreational areas in British Columbia.
The 100 Mile House Natural Resource District covers about 1.24 million hectares of land in the southern Interior. It extends from Clinton in the south to Hendrix Lake in the north and from the Fraser River in the west to Bonaparte Lake in the east.
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
CC Joint Committee - Jan 27th mtg
Present from City of WL - Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors S. Nelson, C. Smith (entered meeting at 5:04pm), L. Walters and S. Zacharias
Present from CRD - Directors S. Forseth, B. Kemp, J. Sorley and B. Anderson
Meeting chaired by Co-Chair Director Sorley and called to order at 5pm
Acknowledgement of meeting being held on traditional Shuswap territory. Meeting Agenda adopted/Mins of Nov 25th, 2015 CC Joint Committee meeting adopted
Business:
a) Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society - Fourth Quarter 2015 Report
Memo from the Central Cariboo Arts/Culture Society President covering 4th Quarter 2015 activities was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
b) City of Williams Lake - 153 Mile Heritage Building Offer
Report from City of WL Director of Development Services was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received and CRD Staff report back on potential funding sources up to a maximum of $15,000 to assist with study costs relative to the move of the 153 Mile Store within the 150 Mile area
c) Pool Upgrade Project - Monthly Status Reports for November and December 2015
Report from the CRD Mgr of Community Services was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
d) Proposed Contribution Agreement with the WL Cycling Club to Support Management and Operation of its Public Recreation Trails System
Report from the CRD Mgr of Community Services was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That it be recommended to the CRD Board:
That the agenda item summary from Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, dated January 20, 2016, regarding a proposed contribution agreement with the Williams Lake Cycling Club to support management and operation of its public recreation trail system, be received. Further, that the City of Williams Lake enter into an agreement with the club for a term of three years at an annual
cost of $10,000, which will be allocated from the Central Cariboo Recreation function.
e) WL Central Business Improvement Association Request to Withdraw Stampede Street Party from Fee-for-Service Agreement
Report from the CRD Mgr of Community Services was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report be referred to the Fee for Service Management Committee for review
f) Action Page
The Action Page was presented to the Committee for review
Resolved - That the Action Page be received and Items 2,4,5,6 and 9 be removed from the Action Page
Meeting adjourned at 5:55pm
Present from CRD - Directors S. Forseth, B. Kemp, J. Sorley and B. Anderson
Meeting chaired by Co-Chair Director Sorley and called to order at 5pm
Acknowledgement of meeting being held on traditional Shuswap territory. Meeting Agenda adopted/Mins of Nov 25th, 2015 CC Joint Committee meeting adopted
Business:
a) Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society - Fourth Quarter 2015 Report
Memo from the Central Cariboo Arts/Culture Society President covering 4th Quarter 2015 activities was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
b) City of Williams Lake - 153 Mile Heritage Building Offer
Report from City of WL Director of Development Services was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received and CRD Staff report back on potential funding sources up to a maximum of $15,000 to assist with study costs relative to the move of the 153 Mile Store within the 150 Mile area
c) Pool Upgrade Project - Monthly Status Reports for November and December 2015
Report from the CRD Mgr of Community Services was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
d) Proposed Contribution Agreement with the WL Cycling Club to Support Management and Operation of its Public Recreation Trails System
Report from the CRD Mgr of Community Services was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That it be recommended to the CRD Board:
That the agenda item summary from Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, dated January 20, 2016, regarding a proposed contribution agreement with the Williams Lake Cycling Club to support management and operation of its public recreation trail system, be received. Further, that the City of Williams Lake enter into an agreement with the club for a term of three years at an annual
cost of $10,000, which will be allocated from the Central Cariboo Recreation function.
e) WL Central Business Improvement Association Request to Withdraw Stampede Street Party from Fee-for-Service Agreement
Report from the CRD Mgr of Community Services was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report be referred to the Fee for Service Management Committee for review
f) Action Page
The Action Page was presented to the Committee for review
Resolved - That the Action Page be received and Items 2,4,5,6 and 9 be removed from the Action Page
Meeting adjourned at 5:55pm
CC Rural Caucus - Jan 27th mtg
Present: Directors S. Forseth, B. Kemp, J. Sorley and B. Anderson (Areas D, E, F, and K)
Absent: Director R. William (Area J)
Meeting called to order at 3:00pm - Deputy Corporate Officer L. Schick
The Deputy Corporate Officer called 3 times for the position of Chair of Central Cariboo Rural Caucus for 2016
Director Sorley nominated Director Forseth. Director Forseth accepted his nomination
No further nominations. The Deputy Corporate Officer declared nominations closed and Director Forseth was acclaimed as Chair of Central Cariboo Rural Caucus for 2016
Director Forseth assumed the Chair - 3:02pm
Meeting Agenda approved/Mins of CC Rural Caucus Meeting of Dec 2nd, 2015 adopted
Delegation:
Brian Hamm (Treasurer) from the Mt Timothy Ski Society appeared before the Caucus to discuss their 2016 Grant for Assistance application.
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair thanked the delegation for their time/information and advised the Caucus will consider their application at a future meeting
Business:
1) Mount Timothy Ski Society Grants for Assistance Application
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Mount Timothy Ski Society Grants for Assistance Application be received and be funded from Grant for Assistance budgets as follows:
Area D -$2,000
Area E - $2,000
Area F - $2,000
Area K - $1,000
2) Elks Lodge Request for Waiving of Tipping Fees
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Elks Lodge Request for Waiving of Tipping Fees be received, Grant for Assistance policy be waived and be funded from Grant for Assistance budgets as follows:
Area D -$1,000.00
Area F - $1,000.00
Area K - $500.00
3) Appointment of Co-Chair for Central Cariboo Joint Committee
Resolved - That Director Sorley be appointed as Co-Chair of CC Joint Committee (CRD) for 2016
4) Central Cariboo Appointments for 2016
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the following Directors' be appointed to the following groups:
Williams Lake/District Chamber of Commerce - Director Forseth
CC Arts/Culture Society Liaison - Director Sorley
Williams Lake Air Quality Roundtable - Director Kemp
And that Director Forseth be authorized to submit reimbursement claims for actual expenses to attend WL/District Chamber of Commerce monthly meetings
5) Discussion Item - Farm Status
The Chair provided an oral report on this item
Discussion ensued thereon
No Resolution resulted
6) Action Page
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Action Page received and all items on the Action Page be removed
Meeting adjourned at 4:17pm
Absent: Director R. William (Area J)
Meeting called to order at 3:00pm - Deputy Corporate Officer L. Schick
The Deputy Corporate Officer called 3 times for the position of Chair of Central Cariboo Rural Caucus for 2016
Director Sorley nominated Director Forseth. Director Forseth accepted his nomination
No further nominations. The Deputy Corporate Officer declared nominations closed and Director Forseth was acclaimed as Chair of Central Cariboo Rural Caucus for 2016
Director Forseth assumed the Chair - 3:02pm
Meeting Agenda approved/Mins of CC Rural Caucus Meeting of Dec 2nd, 2015 adopted
Delegation:
Brian Hamm (Treasurer) from the Mt Timothy Ski Society appeared before the Caucus to discuss their 2016 Grant for Assistance application.
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair thanked the delegation for their time/information and advised the Caucus will consider their application at a future meeting
Business:
1) Mount Timothy Ski Society Grants for Assistance Application
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Mount Timothy Ski Society Grants for Assistance Application be received and be funded from Grant for Assistance budgets as follows:
Area D -$2,000
Area E - $2,000
Area F - $2,000
Area K - $1,000
2) Elks Lodge Request for Waiving of Tipping Fees
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Elks Lodge Request for Waiving of Tipping Fees be received, Grant for Assistance policy be waived and be funded from Grant for Assistance budgets as follows:
Area D -$1,000.00
Area F - $1,000.00
Area K - $500.00
3) Appointment of Co-Chair for Central Cariboo Joint Committee
Resolved - That Director Sorley be appointed as Co-Chair of CC Joint Committee (CRD) for 2016
4) Central Cariboo Appointments for 2016
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the following Directors' be appointed to the following groups:
Williams Lake/District Chamber of Commerce - Director Forseth
CC Arts/Culture Society Liaison - Director Sorley
Williams Lake Air Quality Roundtable - Director Kemp
And that Director Forseth be authorized to submit reimbursement claims for actual expenses to attend WL/District Chamber of Commerce monthly meetings
5) Discussion Item - Farm Status
The Chair provided an oral report on this item
Discussion ensued thereon
No Resolution resulted
6) Action Page
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Action Page received and all items on the Action Page be removed
Meeting adjourned at 4:17pm
CRD 108 Mile Water Assent Vote Scheduled for February 2016
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
The Cariboo Regional District (CRD) announced today that the 108 Mile Ranch Water System Upgrade assent vote (referendum) will be held on February 27, 2016 at the 108 Mile Community Hall. Advance polls will be held on Wednesday, February 17 at the South Cariboo Recreation Complex in 100 Mile House, and on February 22 at the 108 Mile Community Hall. Advance polling stations and general voting day polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Residents in the 108 Mile Water System Service Area will be voting to determine whether they wish to undertake borrowing for improvements to their water system. Upgrades are needed to address high concentrations of manganese, and develop an alternative ground water supply to help reduce lake level declines. Two thirds funding has been secured from the Small Communities Fund, and the other 1/3 will need to be borrowed.
A public meeting and open house session will be held at the 108 Community Hall on February 15 at 7 p.m. At this session residents will be able to learn more about the proposal in order to help them make an informed decision at the polls.
Further information regarding the 108 Mile Water System assent vote will be available soon on the CRD website at cariboord.ca, on Facebook at facebook.com/CaribooRegion, or by calling the CRD Chief or Deputy Chief Election Officers at 250-392-3351 or 1-800-665-1636
Monitoring Senior Services
Courtesy of the BC Seniors' Advocate:
The Office of the Seniors Advocate (OSA) released its first Monitoring Seniors’ Services report today. The report marks the beginning of what will become a yearly update from the OSA on the status of key seniors’ services in the province, highlighting where seniors’ needs are being met, and where improvements are most needed.
“Our goal with this process is to provide the public and policy makers with a single source of data where they can compare year over year how we are doing in this province in delivering services that are critical to seniors,” said Seniors Advocate Isobel Mackenzie. “When we examined the data across all areas, we found a number of interesting stories that are starting to emerge, some are positive, some are cautionary, and some indicate the need for immediate improvements.”
Among areas that affect seniors positively, the report notes that 96% of seniors report they have a regular GP. Data also highlights that four out of five seniors over the age of 85 have no diagnosis of dementia. “While the risk of dementia clearly increases with age it is very important to get the message out to seniors that they have greater likelihood of living a full life without developing dementia,” stated Mackenzie.
The report also outlines a number of areas of concern, most notably the number of incidents of resident on resident aggression in residential care facilities. Data presented in the report confirm there were between 425 and 550 incidents of resident on resident aggression that resulted in harm in residential care reported in 2014/15. Based on these findings, the Advocate will conduct a systemic review of resident on resident aggression this year.
“While we have to remember this is still a small number when you consider there are more than 27,000 individuals in residential care at any given time in this province, the numbers are still substantial enough to warrant our office taking a closer look at this issue,” said Mackenzie. “We are beginning in-depth research to see if there are particular patterns or systemic issues that contribute to an increased likelihood of resident on resident aggression,” continued Mackenzie.
The 60-page Monitoring Seniors’ Services report focuses on 2014/15 data highlighting key services in the Advocate’s legislated seniors’ services which include transportation, health care, housing, income support and personal care. Further highlights from the report include:
• Home support hours decreased in three out of five health authorities, while the number of clients increased in four out of five
• There are 943 individuals on the waitlist for a total of 4,430 subsidized assisted living units. There has been less than a 1% increase in the number of subsidized assisted living units since 2012
• The number of residential care beds in the province has increased by 3.5% since 2012, but the population over 75 has increased 10% during that time and the number of seniors placed within the 30-day target window has decreased from 67% to 63% in the past year
• 18% of licensed residential care facilities did not have an annual inspection within the last year
• Since 2005, the Shelter Aid for Elder Renters (SAFER) maximum rent that qualifies for a subsidy increased 9% while rents increased by 34%
• The number of new HandyDART users is decreasing – down 15% since 2011. 51, 926 (1.9%) of regular HandyDART ride requests went unfulfilled in 2014
• Income supports for seniors such as the Old Age Supplement and Guaranteed Income Supplement increased by 1%. The BC Seniors’ Supplement, available to low-income seniors, has not increased in over 25 years
• The number of people aged 65 plus accessing the BC Bus Pass Program (offers subsidized passes to low-income seniors and individuals receiving disability assistance from the province) has increased by 21% since 2010
• In 2014, 33%, or 48,840 of all drivers evaluated under the Driver Medical Examination Report (DMER), an evaluation for fitness to drive, were aged 80 or over. Only 1% of people of all ages or less than 3% of seniors evaluated through a DMER were referred to DriveAble for cognitive assessment
• The Seniors Abuse and Information Line (SAIL) received 1,286 calls related to elder abuse in 2014 and 15% of these calls reported the abuse had been going on for five or more years
The Seniors Advocate will use data contained in this report for upcoming reviews in 2016. In addition to a systemic review of resident on resident aggression, the Office of the Seniors Advocate will be conducting reviews of home support, supplemental benefits for seniors, transportation, residential care and hospital discharge experiences in 2016. Additional services monitored by the Advocate will be added as data becomes available.
The Office of the Seniors Advocate is an independent office of the provincial government with a mandate of monitoring seniors’ services, issuing public reports focusing on systemic issues and providing information and referral to seniors and their families.
Full report can be viewed here
The Office of the Seniors Advocate (OSA) released its first Monitoring Seniors’ Services report today. The report marks the beginning of what will become a yearly update from the OSA on the status of key seniors’ services in the province, highlighting where seniors’ needs are being met, and where improvements are most needed.
“Our goal with this process is to provide the public and policy makers with a single source of data where they can compare year over year how we are doing in this province in delivering services that are critical to seniors,” said Seniors Advocate Isobel Mackenzie. “When we examined the data across all areas, we found a number of interesting stories that are starting to emerge, some are positive, some are cautionary, and some indicate the need for immediate improvements.”
Among areas that affect seniors positively, the report notes that 96% of seniors report they have a regular GP. Data also highlights that four out of five seniors over the age of 85 have no diagnosis of dementia. “While the risk of dementia clearly increases with age it is very important to get the message out to seniors that they have greater likelihood of living a full life without developing dementia,” stated Mackenzie.
The report also outlines a number of areas of concern, most notably the number of incidents of resident on resident aggression in residential care facilities. Data presented in the report confirm there were between 425 and 550 incidents of resident on resident aggression that resulted in harm in residential care reported in 2014/15. Based on these findings, the Advocate will conduct a systemic review of resident on resident aggression this year.
“While we have to remember this is still a small number when you consider there are more than 27,000 individuals in residential care at any given time in this province, the numbers are still substantial enough to warrant our office taking a closer look at this issue,” said Mackenzie. “We are beginning in-depth research to see if there are particular patterns or systemic issues that contribute to an increased likelihood of resident on resident aggression,” continued Mackenzie.
The 60-page Monitoring Seniors’ Services report focuses on 2014/15 data highlighting key services in the Advocate’s legislated seniors’ services which include transportation, health care, housing, income support and personal care. Further highlights from the report include:
• Home support hours decreased in three out of five health authorities, while the number of clients increased in four out of five
• There are 943 individuals on the waitlist for a total of 4,430 subsidized assisted living units. There has been less than a 1% increase in the number of subsidized assisted living units since 2012
• The number of residential care beds in the province has increased by 3.5% since 2012, but the population over 75 has increased 10% during that time and the number of seniors placed within the 30-day target window has decreased from 67% to 63% in the past year
• 18% of licensed residential care facilities did not have an annual inspection within the last year
• Since 2005, the Shelter Aid for Elder Renters (SAFER) maximum rent that qualifies for a subsidy increased 9% while rents increased by 34%
• The number of new HandyDART users is decreasing – down 15% since 2011. 51, 926 (1.9%) of regular HandyDART ride requests went unfulfilled in 2014
• Income supports for seniors such as the Old Age Supplement and Guaranteed Income Supplement increased by 1%. The BC Seniors’ Supplement, available to low-income seniors, has not increased in over 25 years
• The number of people aged 65 plus accessing the BC Bus Pass Program (offers subsidized passes to low-income seniors and individuals receiving disability assistance from the province) has increased by 21% since 2010
• In 2014, 33%, or 48,840 of all drivers evaluated under the Driver Medical Examination Report (DMER), an evaluation for fitness to drive, were aged 80 or over. Only 1% of people of all ages or less than 3% of seniors evaluated through a DMER were referred to DriveAble for cognitive assessment
• The Seniors Abuse and Information Line (SAIL) received 1,286 calls related to elder abuse in 2014 and 15% of these calls reported the abuse had been going on for five or more years
The Seniors Advocate will use data contained in this report for upcoming reviews in 2016. In addition to a systemic review of resident on resident aggression, the Office of the Seniors Advocate will be conducting reviews of home support, supplemental benefits for seniors, transportation, residential care and hospital discharge experiences in 2016. Additional services monitored by the Advocate will be added as data becomes available.
The Office of the Seniors Advocate is an independent office of the provincial government with a mandate of monitoring seniors’ services, issuing public reports focusing on systemic issues and providing information and referral to seniors and their families.
Full report can be viewed here
Taseko Mines Responds to Activist Shareholder and Sets Date for Requisitioned Meeting
Editor's Note -- more on this story from Financial Post here
Courtesy of Taseko Mines Ltd:
Taseko Mines Limited (TSX: TKO; NYSE MKT: TGB) (“Taseko” or the “Company”) today responded to comments from activist Raging River Capital LP (“RRC”), which requisitioned a special meeting of Taseko shareholders after acquiring slightly more than the minimum shares for a requisition.
Courtesy of Taseko Mines Ltd:
Taseko Mines Limited (TSX: TKO; NYSE MKT: TGB) (“Taseko” or the “Company”) today responded to comments from activist Raging River Capital LP (“RRC”), which requisitioned a special meeting of Taseko shareholders after acquiring slightly more than the minimum shares for a requisition.
RRC, a recently created entity with no mining assets or operations, began accumulating Taseko shares on December 29, 2015, two weeks before the requisition. One of its principals, Mark Radzik, is also Managing Partner of a Chicago-based investment firm that describes itself as making “opportunistic” investments.
“While we welcome the views of all shareholders, it is unfortunate that RRC made no good faith effort to constructively engage with us before rushing into what will likely be a costly proxy contest,” said Russell Hallbauer, Taseko’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “RRC’s engagement consisted of two telephone calls totaling less than an hour. During those calls, RRC indicated that it was unwilling to consider any possible accommodation or compromise on its Board representation demands.”
HDSI’s Flexible Services Arrangement
Linda Thorstad, Chair of a Special Committee of independent directors formed to assist Taseko’s Board in its response to the RRC meeting requisition, added, “RRC has made a number of unwarranted assertions with respect to Taseko’s advantageous relationship with Hunter Dickinson Services Inc. (“HDSI”), a private mining services company. HDSI provides services to Taseko as well as several other publicly traded mining companies, and is owned by several mining professionals, three of whom are directors of Taseko.
Taseko’s Board takes conflicts of interest seriously. Taseko has always disclosed its policies and practices with regard to HDSI. Independent Taseko directors regularly review the cost and quality of services from HDSI to ensure that Taseko derives significant benefit from this arrangement.”
Taseko enjoys a flexible, as-needed services arrangement with HDSI which provides experienced personnel, as requested by Taseko, for periodic geological, engineering, corporate development, administrative, legal and financial management tasks. Taseko is always free to select any service provider other than HDSI and Taseko has the right to cancel HDSI’s services on 30 days’ notice. Taseko filed a copy of the HDSI service agreement on SEDAR in September 2010.
As part of its decision process Taseko regularly reviews rates for the range of services requested by Taseko from HDSI for comparison with rates for similar services from other vendors. Taseko is satisfied the rates are competitive with, if not lower than, other suppliers of similar services. The aggregate charges for HDSI’s services amounted to less than 1% of Taseko’s gross revenue in 2015 and much of that amount was office rent, which is passed through on a cost basis.
Benefits of the Curis Transaction
RRC has also raised misplaced concerns with Taseko’s 2014 acquisition of Curis Resources Ltd. Curis owns the advanced stage, high quality Florence Copper development-stage project, which has large copper reserves and the potential to be a long-life, low cost copper producer. Florence Copper strengthens Taseko’s development project pipeline and may help bridge a future production gap at a relatively low capital cost.
Moreover, Florence Copper’s location in Arizona provides Taseko with geographic diversification. Taseko screened dozens of potential targets throughout the Americas and concluded that Florence Copper represented the best project available and the best value to meet the Company’s strategic goals.
Mr. Hallbauer and two other Taseko directors, Ronald Thiessen and Robert Dickinson, who held less than 8% of Curis, recused themselves from the acquisition process and all voting decisions. Taseko took exhaustive steps to ensure best-practices in corporate governance were applied throughout the 18-month process leading up to the transaction. Among other things, the Board struck a Special Committee of independent directors to oversee the acquisition, review and execute due diligence on Curis, and make recommendations to the Board.
Taseko’s Curis Special Committee engaged independent legal counsel to it, and a major Canadian bank provided the Taseko Board with an independent fairness opinion on the transaction. Several financial analysts commented favorably on the transaction, appreciating Taseko’s strategic rationale for the acquisition and the up-side potential for the Florence project.
Disciplined Governance Processes
RRC has also raised unwarranted questions about Taseko’s governance processes. RRC’s dissatisfaction fails to take into account Taseko’s regular reviews of, and updates to, its manual of governance procedures and ethics code. In 2013, for example, Taseko established the position of lead director to, among other things, schedule regular meetings of the independent directors and assume other responsibilities if the Chair of the Board, for any reason, is not fully independent.
Taseko has paid special attention to procedures involving HDSI, including adopting a Related Party Investment Protocol. As described in the governance manual available on Taseko’s website, the protocol ensures that directors follow best practices in related party situations, including review by a special committee of directors who are independent of HDSI and who consult outside advisors. This protocol, which codified practices that were already in place, was added to the manual in May 2014. These governance improvements, which followed cooperative engagement with shareholders, were implemented long before RRC made its first purchase of Taseko shares.
Comprehensive Procedures for Director Evaluation and Nomination
Taseko’s Board has comprehensive procedures, conducted by independent directors, for ongoing and incoming director evaluation and nomination prior to each shareholder meeting. These procedures will continue for the meeting requisitioned by RRC.
In the past, these procedures have resulted in the nomination of Board candidates who have been put forward by arms-length shareholders. This demonstrates that Taseko is certainly not closed-minded or dismissive about alternative Board nominees. The focus is on the quality and experience of the potential candidate, how that candidate’s skill set meshes with the existing Board and that candidate’s strategic vision for the Company.
Mr. Hallbauer and the other two incumbent directors targeted for removal by RRC, Mr. Dickinson and Mr. Thiessen, have been repeatedly re-nominated on the strength of their decades of experience in the mining industry persisting through numerous commodity cycles. Each has been recognized with prestigious awards from the mining industry.
The three directors targeted by RRC have also been long-term Taseko shareholders. They each have a personal ownership position, collectively amounting to approximately 2.8% of Taseko’s shares outstanding. The removal of these directors would significantly weaken Taseko’s Board.
Poised for Growth with Rising Copper Prices
With its portfolio of large, long life mineral assets, Taseko is poised for growth and improved operating results with rising copper prices. Compared with its peers, Taseko’s share price has performed in line or better over the past year.
Taseko’s flagship Gibraltar mine in British Columbia is Canada’s second largest open pit copper mine, and has been significantly expanded and modernized since Taseko restarted the mine in 2004. An experienced operations team is required to generate positive cash flow from this challenging, low-grade orebody.
Taseko’s management team, led by Mr. Hallbauer, has deep industry knowledge and experience managing mining projects. Mr. Hallbauer, President and CEO since 2005, is a 35-year mining veteran who understands the benefits and risks of the commodity price cycle.
Mr. Hallbauer’s 2010 initiative for Taseko to sell a 25% interest in the Gibraltar mine for $180 million proved to be a prudent and far-sighted move. These funds were used in large part to increase Gibraltar’s production capacity by some 40% and to reduce its production costs. This in turn has helped Taseko’s balance sheet and helped Gibraltar to deliver positive cash flow even with the copper price decline of the last few years. The buyers of that 25% interest, a Japanese consortium, also provided Gibraltar with an offtake agreement for its production at market prices.
Despite current low commodity prices, which have impacted Taseko like all copper producers, Taseko has confidence in its business strategy and its ability to create value for all shareholders. Reflecting that confidence, Mr. Hallbauer has recently acquired Taseko shares in the open market. He and other members of the Board may acquire more shares prior to the requisitioned meeting
Requisitioned Meeting
Taseko has set a date of May 10, 2016 for the meeting requisitioned by RRC. Taseko expects to report financial results for the first quarter of 2016 prior to the meeting date. The record date for the requisitioned meeting is March 11, 2016.
Shareholders will receive detailed information about the above and other matters by way of a Management Information Circular well in advance of the requisitioned meeting. Shareholders should read the circular carefully before reaching a decision with regard to their votes. In the meantime, there is no need for shareholders to take any action.
For further information on Taseko, please see the Company’s website www.tasekomines.com or contact:
Brian Bergot, Vice President, Investor Relations - 778-373-4533 or toll free 1-877-441-4533
Shareholders may also contact Taseko’s proxy solicitation agent:
Laurel Hill Advisory Group
North America Toll Free: 1-877-452-7184
Collect Calls Outside North America: 416-304-0211
Email: assistance@laurelhill.com
North America Toll Free: 1-877-452-7184
Collect Calls Outside North America: 416-304-0211
Email: assistance@laurelhill.com
Russell Hallbauer
President and CEO
President and CEO
BC Tax on 80 Gallon+ Propane Tanks draws ire of WL Clr Scott Nelson
Earlier today - Williams Lake City Councillor Scott Nelson spoke with the Goat/Rush (local radio station) in regards to the new provincial tax on propane tanks of 80 gallons or more.
In the words of Councillor Nelson -- This is a direct attack on Rural British Columbians. Councillor Nelson will be taking a report to Williams Lake City Council at its' next meeting of Feb 9th calling on the Province to kill the propane tax
Read more here from Councillor Nelson as well as the detailed proposal from the BC Safety Authority here
~SF
In the words of Councillor Nelson -- This is a direct attack on Rural British Columbians. Councillor Nelson will be taking a report to Williams Lake City Council at its' next meeting of Feb 9th calling on the Province to kill the propane tax
Read more here from Councillor Nelson as well as the detailed proposal from the BC Safety Authority here
~SF
Investing in Our Community – Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
The next few years will be banner years for taxpayer investment in our community. Between the almost $9 million the City will invest in the West Quesnel Land Stability (WQLS) project and additional road improvements associated with that project, our normal capital investment and infrastructure improvement programs, and the Arena Project, Quesnel will be abuzz with activity -- with plenty of economic opportunities for local workers, contractors, and businesses.
In order to guarantee we truly maximize the local benefits of these and other taxpayer funded projects and purchases, Council is conducting a comprehensive review of its procurement policies. Our intent is to ensure our purchasing policies reflect current and emerging best practices in sustainability, ethical purchasing, the provision of a living wage, and the maximization of local benefits.
An additional upcoming community investment project that Council believes is necessary and timely is a new public works facility, which we intend to build on land previously purchased on Sword Road across from United Concrete (the old soccer fields). We want to have our new procurement policies in place to ensure this project returns maximum benefits to our community too.
A new public works facility is a long overdue investment that previous Councils continually delayed undertaking (with resultant cost escalation) and which the current Council is now committed to expediting. This $10 million investment is necessary to provide a modern, efficient, safe, and healthy work environment for our Public Works employees (about one-third of the City’s workforce). We also need to move Public Works off the Quesnel river floodplain. Relocating public works away from our Riverfront Trail will give us opportunities to enhance our green space amenities along the Quesnel River, including the long asked for possibility of an RV Park near the downtown core and West Fraser Timber Park.
As a result of the fiscal discipline Council applied to its 2015 and 2016 budgets and some forward planning, City staff and Council believe we can borrow the $10 million needed to build this new public works facility without incremental taxation. This will be accomplished through cost efficiencies associated with the new facility, making final payments on the Johnston Bridge loan, and ending further annual contributions toward the WQLS reserve. The City’s annual debt burden will continue to remain well below our allowable limit of 25% of our revenues after borrowing the money necessary for this project. The % debt of total operating costs after the loan would be approximately 6%.
The borrowing bylaw for the public works project has passed second reading and we are now in the public consultation phase of this process, as Council requires public approval to borrow this money. This week Thursday (January 28) there is an open house in Council Chambers starting at 7pm. The concept drawings and business case for this project will be presented at this Open House and public comments and input will be actively sought. The process for obtaining voter assent to borrow the money to build this proposed new public works facility will also be reviewed at this meeting. Please make time to attend this important community meeting.
After this meeting all the information presented will be posted on the City’s website. We will also be sending out a special Q-City News to every household in the coming weeks.
General Contractor Selected to Build the West Fraser Centre
Joint Release of the Cariboo Regional District/City of Quesnel:
The North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee directed staff at a meeting held January 26, 2016 to negotiate a contract for the construction of the West Fraser Centre with Vic Van Isle Construction (VVI). The selection of the Kelowna based company was based on a range of criteria including their fee proposal, work plan and schedule, experience of personnel assigned to the project, and their use of local trades. VVI proposes an aggressive schedule that anticipates construction to start in the early spring of 2016, with substantial completion of the new building anticipated as early as the spring of 2017. VVI will utilize a significant number of local trades in the project and will be using a local contractor as their site superintendent.
The Committee reviewed the total estimated project costs at the January 26 meeting and set a budget ceiling of $20.6 million, which will include all construction, architectural design, project management and site development costs. Staff will be working with VVI and the project manager to bring the project costs down below this maximum ceiling without significantly diminishing the functionality and the utilization of this new community asset. The decisions from the North Cariboo Joint Committee will now go to the Cariboo Regional District Board of Directors meeting on February 10, 2016, for final endorsement.
Price inflation for the project is a result of the combination of a significantly depressed Canadian dollar and that the steel and the major mechanical components for the arena need to be sourced from the United States. The bid price reflects significant cost savings made by the Committee to the original concept design. If the Committee had not made these changes prior to the Request for Proposal process, the fee proposal would have been substantially higher.
“There are no incremental tax implications for sub-regional recreation taxpayers as a result of this decision and no reduction in funding for other North Cariboo Recreation and Parks programs and services,” states Committee Co-Chair, Mayor Bob Simpson. “The project will be completed within the $7.5 million borrowing and taxation authority obtained through the 2014 referendum.” Simpson also notes that the incremental costs will be covered by capital reserves within the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks budget.
“The Committee believes that delaying or re-designing the project will not result in any gains,” says Committee Co-Chair, Cariboo Regional District (CRD) Electoral Area B Director Jerry Bruce. “It will only result in a diminished project for the same or even greater cost.”
“The CRD and the City of Quesnel are deeply disappointed that there is still no federal contribution toward this critical recreation amenity,” Simpson says, noting that the CRD’s submission to the Federal Gas Tax Strategic Priorities Fund for $6 million was unsuccessful.
“We are committed to keeping this project on track, on time, and on budget,” Bruce says. “While the project cost is higher than anticipated, it will not result in a taxation increase. We can look forward to seeing this exciting community project under construction soon.”
The construction schedule remains on track as a result of this decision with construction expected to start in the early spring with mobilization, site prep, foundation and concrete structural work. Completion of the steel superstructure and roof structure will be completed prior to the start of winter 2016. Substantial completion of the arena is anticipated by the end of May 2017, with demolition of the existing arena and construction of parking areas and landscaping to follow. Final completion of the project and occupancy of the new building are planned for mid-August, 2017.
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
WL Council Highlights - Jan 26th mtg
Present: Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors I. Bonnell, S. Nelson, J. Ryll, C. Smith, L. Walters and S. Zacharias
Meeting called to order at 6:05pm
Meeting Agenda approved and Minutes of Jan 12th Council meeting adopted
Delegations:
1) Laura Klassen from the Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) appeared before Council to discuss the AAC Annual Report
A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked the delegation for their time/information
Resolved - Council received for information the report of the Manager of Active Living containing the 2015 Annual Report for the Accessibility Advisory Committee
2) Bruce Mack, President - Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy appeared before Council to discuss Family Literacy Week 2016
A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked Mr. Mack for his time/information
3) George Emery, Certified Life Skills Coach appeared before Council to discuss the Life Skills for Everyone Programs
A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked Mr. Emery for his time/information
Business:
1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque listings for the periods ending January 14 and 21, 2016
2) Council approved a series of three development/economic development workshops between Feb - May 2016 and members of Council were invited to attend these workshops
3) Council gave the Mayor/Corporate Officer authorization to sign off on an amendment to Title Document No. P17287 for certain property at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex site to assist with the construction of the Sam Ketcham Pool Renovation
4) Council gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Reading to Building & Plumbing Amendment Bylaw No. 2242. Adoption of this Bylaw will be withheld until the award of the contract for construction of the Sam Ketcham Pool Upgrade Project at 525 Proctor Street is completed
5) Council adopted 3 Recommendations from the Public Works Committee as follows:
a) The letter from the Sun Ridge Condominiums Strata Council dated November 23, 2015 regarding snow dump be received and they be advised that due to constraints at the Comer Street city snow dump area it is not possible for the City to accept or provide third party snow storage due to erosion issues in this area becoming evident in the summer of 2015.
b) The report of the Manager of Water and Waste dated December 22, 2015 be received and Council endorse an increase in fees when purchasing a solid waste container from the current $65 per container to $105 per container,; and further, "City of Williams Lake Solid Waste Disposal and Recycling Amendment Bylaw No. 2241" be introduced and read a 1st, 2nd and 3rd time
c) Council acknowledge the withdrawal of MPC Consulting Ltd. from the SCADA Upgrades 2015 project, and award the contract to Mackay Electric Ltd. for the total tendered amount of $421,021.10, excluding GST; and further, that Council consider allocating an additional $45,000 from water and sewer funds as an emergency contingency should it be required
6)Council adopted two Committee of the Whole recommendations as follows:
a) The letter from the Williams Lake Central Business Improvement Association dated December 29, 2015 providing notice in accordance with their Fee for Service Agreement dated June 20, 2014 that they will no longer be coordinating and producing the Stampede Street Party event be received, and the Fee for Service Agreement be amended accordingly.
b) The Williams Lake Central Business Improvement Association be requested to provide Council with a revised 5-year plan, incorporated as Schedule "B" to Williams Lake Central Business Improvement Area Bylaw No. 2198 expiring on December 31, 2018.
7) Council received a report from the Chief Administrative Officer containing a summary of recent and upcoming City business
8) Council received the "Council Information Package" for January 26, 2016 as follows:
• January 15, 2016 - CRD Board Highlights;
• January 21, 2016 - BC Hydro re Planned Power Outages in Fox Mountain Area.
Members of Council gave oral reports on their recent activities
Meeting adjourned at 7:21pm and after a 5 minute recess, Council then convened an In-Camera meeting as per Sections 90(1a/c - appointment/labour or employee relations) of the Community Charter
Meeting called to order at 6:05pm
Meeting Agenda approved and Minutes of Jan 12th Council meeting adopted
Delegations:
1) Laura Klassen from the Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) appeared before Council to discuss the AAC Annual Report
A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked the delegation for their time/information
Resolved - Council received for information the report of the Manager of Active Living containing the 2015 Annual Report for the Accessibility Advisory Committee
2) Bruce Mack, President - Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy appeared before Council to discuss Family Literacy Week 2016
A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked Mr. Mack for his time/information
3) George Emery, Certified Life Skills Coach appeared before Council to discuss the Life Skills for Everyone Programs
A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked Mr. Emery for his time/information
Business:
1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque listings for the periods ending January 14 and 21, 2016
2) Council approved a series of three development/economic development workshops between Feb - May 2016 and members of Council were invited to attend these workshops
3) Council gave the Mayor/Corporate Officer authorization to sign off on an amendment to Title Document No. P17287 for certain property at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex site to assist with the construction of the Sam Ketcham Pool Renovation
4) Council gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Reading to Building & Plumbing Amendment Bylaw No. 2242. Adoption of this Bylaw will be withheld until the award of the contract for construction of the Sam Ketcham Pool Upgrade Project at 525 Proctor Street is completed
5) Council adopted 3 Recommendations from the Public Works Committee as follows:
a) The letter from the Sun Ridge Condominiums Strata Council dated November 23, 2015 regarding snow dump be received and they be advised that due to constraints at the Comer Street city snow dump area it is not possible for the City to accept or provide third party snow storage due to erosion issues in this area becoming evident in the summer of 2015.
b) The report of the Manager of Water and Waste dated December 22, 2015 be received and Council endorse an increase in fees when purchasing a solid waste container from the current $65 per container to $105 per container,; and further, "City of Williams Lake Solid Waste Disposal and Recycling Amendment Bylaw No. 2241" be introduced and read a 1st, 2nd and 3rd time
c) Council acknowledge the withdrawal of MPC Consulting Ltd. from the SCADA Upgrades 2015 project, and award the contract to Mackay Electric Ltd. for the total tendered amount of $421,021.10, excluding GST; and further, that Council consider allocating an additional $45,000 from water and sewer funds as an emergency contingency should it be required
6)Council adopted two Committee of the Whole recommendations as follows:
a) The letter from the Williams Lake Central Business Improvement Association dated December 29, 2015 providing notice in accordance with their Fee for Service Agreement dated June 20, 2014 that they will no longer be coordinating and producing the Stampede Street Party event be received, and the Fee for Service Agreement be amended accordingly.
b) The Williams Lake Central Business Improvement Association be requested to provide Council with a revised 5-year plan, incorporated as Schedule "B" to Williams Lake Central Business Improvement Area Bylaw No. 2198 expiring on December 31, 2018.
7) Council received a report from the Chief Administrative Officer containing a summary of recent and upcoming City business
8) Council received the "Council Information Package" for January 26, 2016 as follows:
• January 15, 2016 - CRD Board Highlights;
• January 21, 2016 - BC Hydro re Planned Power Outages in Fox Mountain Area.
Members of Council gave oral reports on their recent activities
Meeting adjourned at 7:21pm and after a 5 minute recess, Council then convened an In-Camera meeting as per Sections 90(1a/c - appointment/labour or employee relations) of the Community Charter
Finance Committee (City of WL) - Jan 26th mtg
Present: Councillors Scott Nelson (Chair), Jason Ryll and Craig Smith
Council Members present: Mayor Walt Cobb, Councillors Ivan Bonnell, Laurie Walters and Sue Zacharias
Meeting called to order at 5:30pm. Meeting Agenda approved
Topics discussed:
1) Oral Report from the CFO - Current Budget Process status
2) Proposed Project Memorandums
3) Budget 2016 Schedule - now to May 15th, 2016
The Chair called for questions from the public - none received
Meeting adjourned at 5:56pm
Council Members present: Mayor Walt Cobb, Councillors Ivan Bonnell, Laurie Walters and Sue Zacharias
Meeting called to order at 5:30pm. Meeting Agenda approved
Topics discussed:
1) Oral Report from the CFO - Current Budget Process status
2) Proposed Project Memorandums
3) Budget 2016 Schedule - now to May 15th, 2016
The Chair called for questions from the public - none received
Meeting adjourned at 5:56pm
Load Restriction Warnings - Cariboo-Chilcotin Region
The BC Ministry of Transportation/Infrastructure has put out the following warning as it relates to load restrictions in the Region:
Restrictions will be imposed on select roads, as conditions warrant. The restrictions may limit vehicles to 100 percent, 70 percent or 50 percent of legal axle loading, as allowed under the regulations pursuant to the Commercial Transportation Act.
For questions/comments, please contact the following Ministry staff:
North Cariboo region - Wes Wiebe, Area Manager Roads, 250.983.7201
Central Cariboo region - Leanna Ilnicki, Area Manager Roads, 250.394.4709
South Cariboo region - Brad Bushill, Area Manager Roads, 250.256.0329
~SF
Restrictions will be imposed on select roads, as conditions warrant. The restrictions may limit vehicles to 100 percent, 70 percent or 50 percent of legal axle loading, as allowed under the regulations pursuant to the Commercial Transportation Act.
For questions/comments, please contact the following Ministry staff:
North Cariboo region - Wes Wiebe, Area Manager Roads, 250.983.7201
Central Cariboo region - Leanna Ilnicki, Area Manager Roads, 250.394.4709
South Cariboo region - Brad Bushill, Area Manager Roads, 250.256.0329
~SF
Monday, January 25, 2016
Gustafsen Lake Standoff Inquiry?
 |
| Federal Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould |
Read the article from the Sun here while you can read a full recap of the Gustafsen Lake Standoff here
Other than Wolverine's letter - there is no real public pressure on the Trudeau government to immediately hold a Public Inquiry on the Gustafson Lake incident, but like anything else, given the fullness of time, that too could change...
Friday, January 22, 2016
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Jan 25-29
The following local governments are holding meetings next week:
Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 26th at 7pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
SD27 - Regular Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 26th at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 26th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
Delegations (3) - George Atamanenko, Accessibility Advisory Committee Chair re AAC Annual Report; Bruce Mack, President - Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy re "Family Literacy Week" 2016; George Emery, Certified Life Skills Coach re Life Skills for Everyone Programs
Business:
* Development Workshops
* Sam Ketcham Pool Upgrade - Statutory Right of Way Authorization
* Sam Ketcham Pool Upgrade - Development Fees - Building & Plumbing Amendment Bylaw No. 2242
* Sun Ridge Condominiums re Snow Dump at bottom of Comer Street
* Fee Increase for Solid Waste Containers (increase from current $65 to $105)
* SCADA Upgrades 2015 Contract Award - Mackay Electric Ltd.
* Two Committee of the Whole Recommendations for Endorsement - WLCBIA - Request to Amend Fee for Service Agreement for Removal of Stampede Street Party Event & Updated Business Plan
* CAO's Activities Update Report
View the full Agenda here
100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 26th at 7pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House). On the Agenda:
* Receive By-law Officer's Reports for Nov/Dec 2015
* Income Statement for the 50th Anniversary of the District of 100 Mile House
* NDIT Application - 100 Mile Nordics'
* Authorize Disposal of District's Assets
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District:
Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Meeting on Wednesday, Jan 27th at 3pm in the CRD Committee Room (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda
* Election of Chair for 2016
* Appointment of Co-Chair for CC Joint Committee for 2016
* Mt Timothy Ski Society Grant for Assistance Application 2016
* Elks Hall Financial Request (Waive Tipping Fees for their Roofing Project)
* Appoint Directors to Community Committees (WL/District Chamber of Commerce, Liaison to CC Arts/Culture Society and WL Air shed Group)
* At request of Dir Forseth - discuss Farm Status rules
View the full Agenda here
Central Cariboo/City of WL Joint Committee - Meeting on Wednesday, Jan 27th at 5pm in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Receive CC Arts/Culture 4th Quarter 2015 Report
* City of WL - Discuss 153 Mile Store Offer Project
* Receive Sam Ketcham Pool - Working Group Reports for Nov/Dec 2015
* Contribution Agreement with the WL Cycling Club to Support Management and Operation of its Public Recreation Trails System
* Action Page
View the full Agenda here
Community Events this weekend/next week:
* Sat Jan 23rd - 10th Anniversary of CNC Campus in Quesnel. More here
* Thurs Jan 28th - Public meeting re: Proposed Public Works Building in Quesnel. More details here
~SF
Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 26th at 7pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
SD27 - Regular Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 26th at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 26th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
Delegations (3) - George Atamanenko, Accessibility Advisory Committee Chair re AAC Annual Report; Bruce Mack, President - Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy re "Family Literacy Week" 2016; George Emery, Certified Life Skills Coach re Life Skills for Everyone Programs
Business:
* Development Workshops
* Sam Ketcham Pool Upgrade - Statutory Right of Way Authorization
* Sam Ketcham Pool Upgrade - Development Fees - Building & Plumbing Amendment Bylaw No. 2242
* Sun Ridge Condominiums re Snow Dump at bottom of Comer Street
* Fee Increase for Solid Waste Containers (increase from current $65 to $105)
* SCADA Upgrades 2015 Contract Award - Mackay Electric Ltd.
* Two Committee of the Whole Recommendations for Endorsement - WLCBIA - Request to Amend Fee for Service Agreement for Removal of Stampede Street Party Event & Updated Business Plan
* CAO's Activities Update Report
View the full Agenda here
100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Jan 26th at 7pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House). On the Agenda:
* Receive By-law Officer's Reports for Nov/Dec 2015
* Income Statement for the 50th Anniversary of the District of 100 Mile House
* NDIT Application - 100 Mile Nordics'
* Authorize Disposal of District's Assets
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District:
Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Meeting on Wednesday, Jan 27th at 3pm in the CRD Committee Room (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda
* Election of Chair for 2016
* Appointment of Co-Chair for CC Joint Committee for 2016
* Mt Timothy Ski Society Grant for Assistance Application 2016
* Elks Hall Financial Request (Waive Tipping Fees for their Roofing Project)
* Appoint Directors to Community Committees (WL/District Chamber of Commerce, Liaison to CC Arts/Culture Society and WL Air shed Group)
* At request of Dir Forseth - discuss Farm Status rules
View the full Agenda here
Central Cariboo/City of WL Joint Committee - Meeting on Wednesday, Jan 27th at 5pm in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Receive CC Arts/Culture 4th Quarter 2015 Report
* City of WL - Discuss 153 Mile Store Offer Project
* Receive Sam Ketcham Pool - Working Group Reports for Nov/Dec 2015
* Contribution Agreement with the WL Cycling Club to Support Management and Operation of its Public Recreation Trails System
* Action Page
View the full Agenda here
Community Events this weekend/next week:
* Sat Jan 23rd - 10th Anniversary of CNC Campus in Quesnel. More here
* Thurs Jan 28th - Public meeting re: Proposed Public Works Building in Quesnel. More details here
~SF
Williams Lake Ec Dev Plan Launch Event Wed Jan 27th - 11am - 2pm
Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:
Additional Info...
The Community Development Institute (CDI) at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) and the Williams Lake Economic Development Corporation would like to invite all interested individuals to the Growing Our Future: Williams Lake Economic Development Plan launch event on Wednesday, January 27, 2016, between 11:00am-2:00pm. The project is being undertaken as a partnership effort to build a more resilient and diverse economy for Williams Lake within a strong central Cariboo region.
The launch event will be located in the lobby of City Hall:
450 Mart Street
Williams Lake, BC V2G 1N3
Williams Lake, BC V2G 1N3
All are welcome. Refreshments will be served.
UBCM Heard on Fire Services
Editor's Note - This is great news! Thanks to the UBCM Executive on standing firm on Fire Inspections in Rural Areas...
Courtesy of the Union of BC Muncipalities:
Courtesy of the Union of BC Muncipalities:
A policy proposal to extend responsibility for mandatory fire inspections to regional districts is no longer under consideration based on recent discussions with the Office of the Fire Commissioner. Discussion of this change in policy direction can be found in a December 21, 2015 letter from the OFC to Peace River RD.
Local governments will recall that at the 2015 UBCM Convention, members endorsed resolution A3 Provincial Responsibility for Fire Services Act and Regulations from Squamish Lillooet RD which called on the Province to provide the “resources necessary to inspect and enforce provincial safety regulations, including the Fire Services Act and its regulations through either the Office of the Fire Commissioner or the BC Safety Authority rather than pursuing options to download the responsibility for inspections and enforcement of provincial regulations on local governments.”
UBCM President Al Richmond, who also serves as UBCM’s representative to the fire services working group expressed his support for the change in policy direction and thanked the membership for their advocacy efforts on this file.
Amendments to the Fire Services Act are expected in the spring sitting of the Legislature.
Thursday, January 21, 2016
Anti-Racism Funds come to Williams Lake
Courtesy of the BC Government Caucus:
 |
| Members of Williams Lake Anti-Racism Committee |
As part of a B.C.-wide initiative, the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Cariboo Chilcotin branch has received $19,976 from the provincial government toward the delivery of a local anti-racism project.
The Canadian Mental Health Association will launch an anti-racism education campaign in Williams Lake and facilitate a series of anti-racism workshops with PeernetBC.
“We want to ensure all people feel a sense of belonging and acceptance in Williams Lake and across B.C.,” Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett said. “Through education and workshops, we can help address racism and strengthen our community.”
“The multiculturalism program at the Canadian Mental Health Association - Cariboo Chilcotin branch is pleased to receive funding from the B.C. government to support anti-racism programming in our community,” multicultural program co-ordinator Margaret-Anne Enders said. “The funds will be used to provide experiential anti-racism workshops for local youth, parents, and community members and racism awareness facilitation training.”
The CMHA’s Cariboo Chilcotin branch is one of 14 B.C.-based organizations that is sharing nearly $263,000 from the provincial government in the latest round of grants to fund local anti-racism projects.
These anti-racism projects include community events, works of art, theatre productions and a variety of other forms of community engagement designed to fight racism.
In November 2015, the B.C. government announced it had provided $240,000 to 14 organizations belonging to the Organizing Against Racism and Hate (OARH) network to support the work they do to address racism in B.C.
British Columbia is Canada’s most ethnically diverse province, with almost 30 per cent of residents having emigrated from another country
Editor's Note -- Williams Lake Tribune does a story on the above here
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
WL Council responds to Snow Removal complaints
After receiving complaints from locals in regards to snow removal and significant discussion online in regards to the lack of snow removal within the City of Williams Lake - Williams Lake City Council looked at their existing Snow and Ice Control Policy last week and directed their Staff to implement temporary changes until more permanent changes to the Snow/Ice Removal Policy can be made later this year including public meetings
Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb speaks to both the temporary changes and how Council will be making permanent changes to the Snow and Ice Removal Policy here
~SF
Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb speaks to both the temporary changes and how Council will be making permanent changes to the Snow and Ice Removal Policy here
~SF
Quesnel Council Highlights - Jan 19th mtg
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
Ministry of Children and Families – Duty to Report Child Protection Concerns
· There is a duty to report to the Ministry of Children and Family Development, under the Province’s Child, Family and Community Service Act, when you believe a child or youth, under the age of 19, is being abused or neglected.
· It is a criminal offence to not report promptly, or to knowingly make a false report, concerns regarding a child/youth’s welfare that comes with a $10,000 fine and/or up to 6 months in prison.
· When responding to child welfare reports, the Ministry focuses on the strengths of the family and the family’s support networks and works to put family supports and family services in place; with the removal of the child/youth only as a last resort. Not all reports are responded to as a measured screening tool assists child welfare workers in determining if a child/youth is really being neglected or abused. In 2015 child welfare workers completed 23,000 responses in British Columbia with 10% of those responses resulting in the removal of the child or youth.
· To make a child/youth protection report call 1-800-663-9122; or if the child/youth is in immediate danger, call the RCMP immediately at 9-1-1.
· If a child or youth would like to talk to someone call the Children and Youth Helpline at 310-1234.
· For more information please see the Ministry’s Handbook at http://www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/child_protection/pdf/child_welfare_your_role.pdf.
Five Year Operational Agreement – Soccer Complex
HandyDART Services in Quesnel
Environmental Assessment of the Blackwater Gold Project
· www.eao.gov.bc.ca
· blackwater@ceaa-acee.gc.ca
· Fax: 250-398-2208
· Mail: Blackwater Gold Project, Canadian Environment Assessment Agency, 410-701 West George Street, Vancouver, B.C. V7Y 1C6
Bylaws
Next Meetings
Ministry of Children and Families – Duty to Report Child Protection Concerns
The Office of the Provincial Director of Child Welfare, the Ministry of Children and Family Development (“Ministry”) have been providing information to police, health care practitioners, educators and social service providers relating the legislated duty to report child protection concerns to a child welfare worker. Carissa Boyd, Quesnel Intake Team Leader, informed Council:
· There is a duty to report to the Ministry of Children and Family Development, under the Province’s Child, Family and Community Service Act, when you believe a child or youth, under the age of 19, is being abused or neglected.
· It is a criminal offence to not report promptly, or to knowingly make a false report, concerns regarding a child/youth’s welfare that comes with a $10,000 fine and/or up to 6 months in prison.
· When responding to child welfare reports, the Ministry focuses on the strengths of the family and the family’s support networks and works to put family supports and family services in place; with the removal of the child/youth only as a last resort. Not all reports are responded to as a measured screening tool assists child welfare workers in determining if a child/youth is really being neglected or abused. In 2015 child welfare workers completed 23,000 responses in British Columbia with 10% of those responses resulting in the removal of the child or youth.
· To make a child/youth protection report call 1-800-663-9122; or if the child/youth is in immediate danger, call the RCMP immediately at 9-1-1.
· If a child or youth would like to talk to someone call the Children and Youth Helpline at 310-1234.
· For more information please see the Ministry’s Handbook at http://www.mcf.gov.bc.ca/child_protection/pdf/child_welfare_your_role.pdf.
Five Year Operational Agreement – Soccer Complex
Council approved a License of Occupation with the Cariboo Regional District and the Quesnel Youth Soccer Association (“QYSA”) to manage the soccer complex. QYSA has managed the Soccer Complex since 2003 (outdoor fields) and 2006 (indoor Sport Field Facility). Each year QYSA will receive $70,000, which will be increased yearly based on inflation, to manage the property and is responsible for all operating costs, including utilities, snow removal and building, field and parking lot maintenance. The City of Quesnel and the Cariboo Regional District are responsible for the cost of capital improvements to the property.
HandyDART Services in Quesnel
Council asked the Executive Committee to look at the City’s HandyDART bus services. A group of concerned citizens have expressed concerns over the lack of HandyDART bus services Friday through Sunday preventing attendance at social gatherings and community events that are often held on weekends.
Environmental Assessment of the Blackwater Gold Project
New Gold Inc. is proposing an open pit gold and silver mine approximately 100 kilometers south of Vanderhoof, B.C. The proposed mine would produce 60,000 tonnes/day of gold and silver ore, over 17 years. New Gold Inc. will be holding a public comment period and information session in Quesnel on February 9, 2016 at the Best Western Plus Tower Inn, located at 500 Reid Street, with further details to be publicized in the near future.
The Public can submit their comments from January 20 to February 19, 2016 by:
· www.eao.gov.bc.ca
· blackwater@ceaa-acee.gc.ca
· Fax: 250-398-2208
· Mail: Blackwater Gold Project, Canadian Environment Assessment Agency, 410-701 West George Street, Vancouver, B.C. V7Y 1C6
Bylaws
- Bylaw 1788 - MTI Amendment – First Three Readings (Housekeeping Amendment)
- Bylaw 1789 and 1790 – OCP/Zoning Amendment – Single Family Residence in a Downtown Zone (500 Block of Reid Street) - First Two Readings and Public Hearing Date Set for 7 pm on February 23, 2016 in Council Chambers
Next Meetings
- Tuesday, January 26, 2016 at 5:30 pm – Special Open - North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee
- Tuesday, January 26, 2016 at 7 pm – Regular Council
Public Comment Period - Blackwater Gold Project
Starting today - the public may provide comment on New Gold Inc's "Blackwater Gold" project, which is located 110 kms SW of Vanderhoof, BC
New Gold's documentation for this project can be viewed in a variety of locations including the Cariboo Regional District Library - Quesnel Branch, located at 101-410 Kinchant Street
The public comment period is open from Wednesday, Jan 20th - Friday, Feb 19th
There will be two public information sessions to view the proposal:
1) Tues Feb 2nd from 4-8pm -- Nechako Friendship Senior Centre, Vanderhoof, BC
2) Wed Feb 3rd from 4:30-8:30pm -- Moose Mountain Elem. School, Fraser Lake, BC
Full details on how to submit your comments can be viewed here
~SF
New Gold's documentation for this project can be viewed in a variety of locations including the Cariboo Regional District Library - Quesnel Branch, located at 101-410 Kinchant Street
The public comment period is open from Wednesday, Jan 20th - Friday, Feb 19th
There will be two public information sessions to view the proposal:
1) Tues Feb 2nd from 4-8pm -- Nechako Friendship Senior Centre, Vanderhoof, BC
2) Wed Feb 3rd from 4:30-8:30pm -- Moose Mountain Elem. School, Fraser Lake, BC
Full details on how to submit your comments can be viewed here
~SF
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
WL Council-in-Committee -- Jan 19th mtg
Present: Acting Mayor I. Bonnell (Chair); Councillors C. Smith, J. Ryll and S. Zacharias
Absent: Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors S. Nelson and L. Walters
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Minutes from Dec 8th/15th COW Meetings; Notes of COW Mtg held Jan 5th adopted and Meeting Agenda approved
Delegation:
Angie Delaney - Chair, Williams Lake Central Business Improvement Association appeared before the Committee to discuss their request to no longer put on the annual WL Stampede Street Parade and amend the WLCBIA's Fee for Service Agreements accordingly
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair thanked the delegation for their time/information
Resolved - That the letter dated December 29th, 2015 from the WL Central Business Improvement Area Association be received and the CFO be requested to report back on next steps concerning the WLCBIA's request to amend their Fee for Service Agreement and the WLCBIA be requested to report back on any proposed changes to their 5 year Business Plan for review by Council
The meeting adjourned at 6:30pm
Absent: Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors S. Nelson and L. Walters
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Minutes from Dec 8th/15th COW Meetings; Notes of COW Mtg held Jan 5th adopted and Meeting Agenda approved
Delegation:
Angie Delaney - Chair, Williams Lake Central Business Improvement Association appeared before the Committee to discuss their request to no longer put on the annual WL Stampede Street Parade and amend the WLCBIA's Fee for Service Agreements accordingly
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair thanked the delegation for their time/information
Resolved - That the letter dated December 29th, 2015 from the WL Central Business Improvement Area Association be received and the CFO be requested to report back on next steps concerning the WLCBIA's request to amend their Fee for Service Agreement and the WLCBIA be requested to report back on any proposed changes to their 5 year Business Plan for review by Council
The meeting adjourned at 6:30pm
Monday, January 18, 2016
8 Groups in Cariboo-Chilcotin share more than $300,000 in Prov. Grants
Courtesy of the BC Government Caucus:
Five social service organizations in Williams Lake, two in 100 Mile House and one in Lone Butte have received a combined $302,230 in community gaming grants from the B.C. government.
· Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre Association (Williams Lake): $88,030
· Boys and Girls Club of Williams Lake and District: $50,000
· Williams Lake Hospice Society: $60,000
· Cariboo Memorial Hospital Auxiliary (Williams Lake): $2,000
· Knights of Columbus #4785 (Williams Lake): $9,200
· Lone Butte, Horse Lake Community Association: $10,000
· 100 Mile House and District Women’s Centre Society: $11,000
· Educo Adventure School (100 Mile House): $72,000
“These organizations make such essential contributions to our communities that I cannot imagine if they did not exist,” Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett said. “I am proud that our government continues to support their amazing work through these grants.”
These grants are awarded under the Human and Social Services category of the community gaming grant program, which allows non-profit organizations to apply for provincial gaming revenues from the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development. Gaming grants are also awarded in the categories of Public Safety, Sports and Arts and Culture, Parent Advisory Councils and District Parent Advisory Councils, and Environment.
Every year, the provincial government approves $135 million in gaming grants that benefit more than 5,000 local non-profit organizations that serve communities throughout British Columbia.
Organizations interested in applying for community gaming grants can find information and applications at gaming.gov.bc.ca/grants/.
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