Sanitary Sewer Relining in Downtown Core

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

Starting Thursday, March 31, 2016, the City of Williams Lake will be upgrading the Sanitary Sewer collection system in the downtown core. Insituform Technologies Inc. will be doing cleaning and camera work on the sanitary sewer collection mains in preparation for the relining which will start at the end of April. Relining the 50 year old system will be a multi-year program that will see the entire collection system able to function for another 50 years. 

Work will be completed during the evening to reduce impact on property owners. Traffic control persons will be on site at all times. Please use caution and if possible avoid this area completely. 

“The work that is being done on the Sanitary Sewer Collection system will have a long lasting effect on the entire system” says Joe Engelberts, Manager of Utilities and Fleet. “The infrastructure that is in place is over 50 years old and by doing this preventative maintenance, the City residents and businesses in the downtown core will see another 50 years of service with little to no interruptions”. 

If you have any questions, please contact the City of Williams Lake Water Department at 250 392-1785. 

– 30 –
For more information, contact: 
Water Department
City of Williams Lake
250-398-1785

Additional Info...

Apply for the Rural Dividend!

Courtesy of the BC Government:

Applications for the first year of funding under the BC Rural Dividend will be accepted from April 4 to May 31, 2016.

As committed during the September 2015 Union of British Columbia Municipalities convention and in Balanced Budget 2016, the three-year $75-million Rural Dividend will help rural communities with populations under 25,000 diversify and strengthen their economies.  

Funding of $25 million per year is available in four categories:

• Community capacity building;
• Workforce development;
• Community and economic development; and
• Business sector development.

Local governments, not-for-profit organizations and First Nations are all eligible to apply.

Single applicants can apply for up to $100,000 for community-driven projects and must contribute at least 20% of the total project cost. Partnerships involving more than one eligible applicant can apply for up to $500,000, and must contribute 40% of the total project cost.

Applicant contributions can include in-kind contributions of up to 10%.  

A project development funding stream will provide up to $10,000 to help communities with limited capacity build business cases and feasibility assessments to support the development of strong projects and future project applications.

Downloadable application forms, program guidelines, as well as detailed instructions on how to apply will be available as of April 4, 2016, when the new Rural Dividend website goes live: www.gov.bc.ca/ruraldividend

The criteria for the Rural Dividend was designed with input from the Rural Advisory Council, which was formed in March 2015.

BC Premier Christy Clark said:

“We promised to help manage the effects of rapid growth and share the wealth that comes from rural B.C. more fairly with the communities that create it. And thanks to the hard work of Donna Barnett and the Rural Advisory Council, we’re keeping that promise"

While Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA/Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Development, Donna Barnett stated:

"Over the past year, we’ve worked closely with the Rural Advisory Council in designing this program that will benefit rural British Columbians.”

More Information: 

Rural Dividend: www.gov.bc.ca/ruraldividend

Rural Advisory Council: www2.news.gov.bc.ca/news_releases_2013-2017/2016flnr0040-000473.htm

South Cariboo Area OCP Survey Now Open

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

If you are a resident of the South Cariboo Area, the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) wants to hear from you! The South Cariboo Area Official Community Plan (OCP) update process is well underway and a community survey is now available and can be completed online or on paper.

“A strong OCP update process relies heavily on resident participation and community support and helps steer the development of the area,” states CRD Chair and Electoral Area G Director Al Richmond. “OCP updates are community focused and this is your chance to participate in updating the OCP to ensure it meets the needs of present day and long into our future.”

The survey will be open until April 15, 2016 and asks residents to comment on the challenges facing the South Cariboo today. The Plan looks at how to cope with an aging population facing limited local transportation options, opportunities for economic development, the importance of protecting agricultural and rangeland, environmental protection and a changing climate. The survey also focuses on what residents like about the South Cariboo Area but also what needs to be improved. 

To access the survey, please visit cariboord.ca and select the South Cariboo Area OCP link on the home page or visit the CRD offices in 100 Mile House or Williams Lake to pick up a paper copy.

The OCP Update is expected to be completed this fall, and includes the communities of 108 Mile Ranch and 93-97 Mile areas in Electoral Area G; Gateway, Buffalo Creek, Forest Grove, Ruth Lake and Canim Lake in Electoral Area H, and Lone Butte and Horse Lake in Electoral Area L.

The OCP Update is being led by planning and environmental consultants working with the CRD Development Services Department and residents from the South Cariboo Area. For more information, please contact the CRD’s Development Services Department at 250-392-3351 or 1-800-665-1636. Regular project updates will be provided on the CRD’s website, on Facebook at facebook.com/CaribooRegion or on twitter at @CaribooRD

2016 NCLGA Resolutions tabled!

Yesterday - the North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA) published the 2016 NCLGA Resolutions (32) to be considered at its' AGM/Convention in Dawson Creek from May 4-6.  Read those here

Of the 32 - 6 are coming from the Cariboo-Chilcotin (2 from the Cariboo Regional District, 2 from the City of Williams Lake and 2 from the City of Quesnel) and of those - only the Resolutions concerning Amend Community Charter Allowing Municipalities to Set Higher Fees (City of Williams Lake) and Highway Line Paint (City of Quesnel) have a recommendation of the NCLGA Executive for endorsement while the remainder (4) have no recommendation from the NCLGA Executive

~SF

Quesnel Council Highlights - March 29th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Quesnel Volunteer Citizens of the Year

The following individuals have been nominated for the 2015 Volunteer Citizen of the Year Award (in no particular order):  Michelle Pelletier, Josie Whitehead, Rick Wittner & Jackie Sarginson, Ashley Schmidt, Tim Cawdell, Sheila Pritchard, Rick Prosk and Rose Gaetz.  These individuals will be honoured at the awards banquet on April 19, 2016 with doors opening at 5:30 p.m.  Banquet tickets can be purchased for $25 at City Hall.

Active Transportation Plan

The City’s Active Transportation Plan will increase transportation choices within the City and provide an accessible, sustainable, and efficient transportation system in Quesnel for walkers/runners and bicyclists using improved sidewalks and pathways was approved by Council.  Next steps include staff researching for infrastructure grant funding available for the list of projects/actions found in the Plan.  To view the full report that outlines the Active Transportation Plan’s Strategies/Actions and Implementation/Phasing please visit the City’s Home Page/Quick Links/Agendas/Minutes.

Multi-Family Housing Incentives

In order to increase housing options for seniors, singles and those with accessibility challenges, Council has approved staff to move forward with:

1.  Developing a Multi-Family Housing Incentives Bylaw based on the City of Prince George model;

2.  Offering a tiered Low Environmental Impact reduction to both the Primary and Secondary Growth areas in the City;

3.  Consulting with local housing stakeholders to gain input regarding the specific model prior to bringing back the Multi-Family Housing Incentives Bylaw for readings.

For a more information please visit the City’s website.

Phase II West Quesnel Land Stability Project -

As part of the Phase II West Quesnel Land Stability Project, the City has acquired land either through donation (Quesnel Elks Club) or purchasing land in order to install the stormceptor and storm water infiltration systems to improve the water quality before entering into Baker Creek.  The total costs to date for three parcels of land located at 202, 230 and 268 Anderson Drive is $143,710.  The site will be under construction until the spring of 2017 and then restored to green space.

Quesnel Regional Airport

Council approved staff applying for 75% British Columbia Air Access Program grant funding for two projects at the Quesnel Regional Airport:  $112,200 to replace two powered Security Gates and adding six additional perimeter emergency access gates around the property; and $45,000 for the Aerodrome Instrument Approach Upgrade.  The second project will allow for aircraft to land at a minimum of 300’ to 335’ in a low cloud ceiling situations vs. the current 712’ – 892’.  Last year, 62 Central Mountain Air flights were cancelled due to low cloud ceilings.

Bylaw of the Month – Smoking Regulations

In order to develop awareness and education of the City’s various bylaws, the Bylaw Enforcement staff will be out and about during the month of April talking to folks about the City’s Smoking Regulations bylaw.  This initiative will use the City’s website, social media, direct e-mail notices to stakeholders and Council media releases.  Smoking is prohibited in West Fraser Timber Park; Spirit Square; Quesnel Youth Soccer Playing Fields; Playgrounds and Playing Fields; Fraser River Foot Bridge (including entrances) and LeBourdais Park. 

Gook Road Sewer Extension – Majority Said Yes

13 out of 22 (59%) City residents voted in favour of the Gook Road/Wee Road sewer extension representing 63% of the total assessed value of land.  This area will be serviced by the Red Bluff Sewer System which is owned and operated by the Cariboo Regional District.  The City has been involved in this project’s design process and will be involved in managing this project on behalf of City residents.

Bylaws

1787 – Zone Amendment – Regional Shopping Centre (Rita Road) – Final Adoption

1793 – Secondary Suite/Coach Road South – Final Adoption 

1795 – Retail Licensee Stores – First Reading and Public Hearing Date of 7:00 p.m., April 19, 2016

1796 – Repeal Quesnel Museum and Heritage Commission       

              Bylaw – Final Adoption

1797 – Repeal Quesnel Mutual Aid Fire Protection Bylaw 1408 – First, Second, Third Reading

Next Meetings

- 7:00 pm, Tuesday, April 5, 2016 – Regular Council Meeting

- 5:30 pm, Tuesday, April 12, 2016 – North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee

Hodgson Rd area land stability reports released

Joint Release of the City of Williams Lake/Cariboo Regional District:

The City of Williams Lake and the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) released three reports from engineering firms regarding land slippage in the Hodgson Road area. The local governments have contracted a geotechnical engineering firm to undertake an independent analysis of the reports and provide further recommendations.

The land slippage in the Hodgson Road area is in a small portion of Williams Lake and the CRD and is a naturally occurring event that has existed for many years, but has been largely dormant until the past few years. With recent movement increasing, a monitoring program was initiated in 2015 to help determine the extent and rate at which movement is occurring.

“We have distributed the three reports to affected property owners within the slide area” states CRD Chair Al Richmond. “Now we’re awaiting the geotechnical assessment of the reports in order to assess what if any additional actions may be taken.”

“The City of Williams Lake has also sent out notices to the affected properties as required,” states Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb. “We hope the review will give us some options on how to proceed.”

The reports and a map of the affected area will be available for viewing on the CRD website at cariboord.ca and on the City of Williams Lake site at williamslake.ca soon

Increased Construction Costs for SKP Project offset by Senior Government Grants

Joint Release by the City of Williams Lake/Cariboo Regional District:

The Cariboo Regional District (CRD) Board of Directors endorsed a resolution from the Central Cariboo Joint Committee to make adjustments to the Sam Ketcham Pool Upgrade Project budget. The increase is required in light of the current project cost estimate and is considered to have a high level of accuracy based on final working drawings and the receipt of tenders to date.

The Board reviewed the updated overall project cost estimate from March 11 as provided by construction managers, Tango Management. The estimate anticipates a project cost of $13.1 million including appropriate contingency funding, which is approximately 12 per cent over the initial cost estimate of $11.7 million. These changes can be accommodated within the existing 2016 Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services financial plan.

With the Federal Gas Tax grant factored into the budget, accommodating a $13.1 million project can be achieved without a previously planned draw from the recreation function capital reserves and the anticipated borrowing will be reduced to $6.75 million with a term of 15 years. The reduction in the principle amount borrowed saves $6.45 million, including $3.2 million in interest charges. Taxation increases over the term of the five-year financial plan have been reduced from one per cent per year, to zero per cent.

“The current financial plan reflects the recently approved grant for $4 million from the Federal Gas Tax Strategic Priorities Fund administered by the Union of British Columbia Municipalities,” states Central Cariboo Co-Chair and CRD Director Joan Sorley. “We are thankful to the funding partners for their contributions and support and the major positive impact their funds have on the project budget and that we will be able to significantly reduce the cost to local taxpayers. I’m also confident that the project working group will continue to be diligent in ensuring that all design details are the best value for the project and will take advantage of any other cost-saving opportunities.”

“It is disappointing, but not fully unexpected, that the cost estimates have gone up since the initial concept plan in 2012,” stated Central Cariboo Joint Committee Co-chair Mayor Walt Cobb. “But it’s also critical that the project meets all the expectations of the community and the scope that was brought forward in the referendum and I’m glad this will be achieved while actually reducing costs for local taxpayers.

To support the project, the Regional District and the City of Williams Lake continue to pursue funding from other sources and have confirmed $250,000 from Northern Development Initiative Trust, $500,000 from the Canada 150 Federal Grant program, $427,500 in Regional District Community Works Funds for specific energy efficiency upgrades and $4 million from the Federal Gas Tax Strategic Priorities Fund. These grants are in addition to the $500,000 donated by West Fraser to support the project in recognition of the long standing connection between the facility, the company and the Ketcham family. This major grant funding will help reduce the amount of funding the Regional District must borrow for the project and save local taxpayers those financing costs.

A Facebook page dedicated to helping provide information to residents and an opportunity for residents to ask questions can be found at facebook.com/SamKetchamPool. A Twitter feed can also be found at @SKPProject. Project updates will also be posted on the Cariboo Regional District website at cariboord.ca and on the City of Williams Lake site at williamslake.ca.

North Cariboo Arena Replacement Project Construction Contract

Joint Release of the City of Quesnel/Cariboo Regional District:

Last Thursday, the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) endorsed a recent resolution from the North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee (NCJPC) recommending that the CRD enter into a construction contract with Vic Van Isle Construction Ltd. in the amount of $17,981,044 million for the North Cariboo Arena Replacement Project (NCARP).

At the January 26, 2016 meeting of the NCJPC, the Committee supported the selection of Vic Van Isle Construction Ltd. (VVI) as the general contractor for the Arena Replacement Project and directed staff to work with the contractor, project manager, and the project design team to review and recommend further value engineering to reduce the overall project cost.

“We are pleased with the work that staff and Vic Van Isle accomplished over the past few weeks and are looking forward to moving ahead with this important project for the North Cariboo,” says NCJPC Committee Co-Chair and CRD Director Jerry Bruce. “Our recommendation of Vic Van Isle was based on their extensive experience with construction of similar facilities, their value engineering ideas and approach, and their focused and time sensitive construction schedule.”

The NCJPC also recommended that the NCARP financial plan be amended to include a project cost of $20.6 million.

“We are excited to see this project move forward with a general contractor who is committed to using as many of our local trades as possible and who has a solid reputation for completing large-scale projects efficiently and on schedule,” says Quesnel Acting Mayor Scott Elliott.”

Through the value engineering process the total project cost has been confirmed at $20.6 million.  The total includes all costs for the project including soft costs, civil works, the contract with VVI and appropriate contingency funding.

Further information about the North Cariboo Arena Replacement Project is available on the CRD website at cariboord.ca or the City of Quesnel at quesnel.ca.

Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of March 29th - April 1st

Next week is an abbreviated week due to the Easter Long Weekend.  The following local governments are meeting next week:

Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 29th at 7pm in Quesnel Council Chambers.  On the Agenda:

* Bring Forward In-Camera Resolution from Dec 15th, 2015 Special Closed Council Meeting
* Report of Mayor Simpson re: Special Meetings and Strategic Initiatives
* Active Transportation Plan
* Business Improvement Associations 2016 Levies
* Multi-Family Housing Incentives
* Land Acquisition at 202 Anderson Dr., 230 Anderson Dr. and 268 Anderson Dr
* Development Variance Permit - Accessory Building (1722 Mills Road)
* British Columbia Air Access Program Grant
* Bylaw of the Month - Smoking Regulations (Bylaw 1767)
* Revise Transit Master Operating Agreement
* Gook Road/Wee Road Sewer Extension
* Retail Licensee Stores

View the full Agenda here

School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Board of Education on Wednesday, March 30th at 7pm at CORRELIEU SECONDARY SCHOOL (850 West Fraser Rd, Quesnel). On the Agenda:

* Schools Development Strategy (possible closure of Parkland, Kersley and École Baker Elementary Schools)
* Reports from SD28 Superintendent Sue-Ellen Miller
* Trustee Remuneration
* Various Committee Reports
* Letter from Northern Health regarding Water Quality and Testing in Schools

View the full Agenda here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Regular Board of Education on Tuesday, March 29th at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Consent Agenda
* Reports from Superintendent Mark Thiessen/Secretary-Treasurer Kevin Futcher
* Disposal of Capital Assets Bylaw No. 16-D003 (Kwaleen)
* Bridge Lake Elementary School - Potential Closure (Discussion Item)
* BCSTA - Survey to Review Co-Governance Model with Ministry of Education

View the full Agenda here

CRD Board Highlights - March 24th mtg

Present: Chair A. Richmond; Directors Armstrong, Bruce, Massier, Forseth, Kemp, Sorley, Wagner, Cash, William, Anderson, Coakley, Sharpe, Campsall and Alternate Director L. Roodenburg (Quesnel)

Meeting called to order at 9:45am

Acknowledgement of meeting on traditional Northern Shuswap territory

Meeting Agenda adopted/Mins. of the CRD Board Meeting of Feb 26th adopted

Delegations Memo of Business received

Business:

Development Services:

a) The following Bylaws were 1st Reading only

Bylaws 5012/5013 (Area L)

b) The following Bylaws were given 1st and 2nd Readings

Bylaws 5009/5010 (Area L) and Bylaw 5011 (Area B)

c) The following Bylaw was adopted

Bylaw 4909 (Area A)

d) The following Development Variance Permits were approved unanimously:

DVP's #8-2016 (Area G), #44-2015 (Area L), #4-2016 (Area L), #10-2016 (Area D) and DVP #67-2015 (Area A)

e) The Board approved ALR Application F5-2016 (Area F) for submission to the Provincial Agriculture Land Commission
f) The Board agreed to remove a condition of adoption of Cariboo Regional District North Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 4996, 2015 as follows:

The applicants submit a Geotechnical Report and Engineered Design Drawings of an internal subdivision road with cul-de-sac to the satisfaction of the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure's Provincial Approving Officer and the Cariboo Regional District. The Geotechnical Report is to be prepared by a Qualified Professional, with recommendations concerning suitable access and safety issues regarding the intended use, and recommendations regarding the required internal subdivision road.

g) As a result of a revamping of the Local Government Act - the Board agreed to give 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and adopt the following Bylaws:

1) Cariboo Regional District Development Procedures, Guidelines & Fees Bylaw No. 5005, 2016
2) Cariboo Regional District Advisory Planning Commission Bylaw No. 5006, 2016
3) Cariboo Regional District Development Approval Information Bylaw No. 5008, 2016

h) The Board directed Staff to hire a contractor to remove the debris for property at 5987 Highway 24, Lone Butte, BC (Area L) and that costs be billed to the registered owner, and if not paid by December 31, 2016, assigned to property taxes as taxes in arrears.

i) The Board received Building Stat reports for the month of January 2016

Environmental Services:

a) The Board received the Water/Sewer Projects report as of March 24th

Community Services:

a) The Board endorsed two Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) applications for submission to the NDIT Cariboo-Chilcotin-Lillioet RAC/Board:

Directors R. Sharpe/J. Massier declared conflicts of interest on Item #1 below and left the meeting at 10:04am

1) Barkerville Heritage Trust - Revamp of the Visitor Information Centre and that Ed Coleman (Barkerville Heritage Trust CEO) makes a presentation to the Board on a vision of Barkerville Townsite.

Approved by the following vote:

Affirmative - Directors Armstrong, Bruce, Forseth, Kemp, Sorley, Richmond, Wagner, William, Anderson, Coakley, Campsall and Alternate Director Roodenburg (Quesnel)

Negative - Director D. Cash

Directors Sharpe/Massier returned to the meeting at 10:33am

2) Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association - Gold Rush Challenge

b) The Board approved up to $26,000 from the 2016 Community Halls Improvements envelope of the Community Works Fund to install energy efficient exterior doors and windows at the Forest Grove Community Hall

c) The Board approved the CRD allocate up to $2,500 from the Electoral Area Administration fund for the Chinese Martial Arts Performances, and seek a contribution commitment of up to $2,500 plus staff time from the proposed host communities, on the understanding that additional grant funding approvals are required for these events to proceed. And further, that the CRD request letters from the District of 100 Mile House, City of Williams Lake, City of Quesnel, and City of Prince George in support of applications to the Northern Development Initiative Trust’s Fabulous Festivals & Events program on their behalf, for the amount of $2,500 each

Protective Services:

a) The Board received the minutes from the 2015 CRD 24th Annual Fire Chiefs’ Workshop

b) The Board received a report from the Manager of Protective Services concerning training standards of CRD Volunteer Fire Departments

Meeting recessed at 10:39am
Meeting resumed at 10:47am

c) The Board received a report from the Manager of Protective Services concerning clarification of proposals contained in the paper Prepared and Resilient, a discussion paper on the legislative framework for emergency management in BC and a letter be forwarded to the Province based on the points raised by Directors'

Meeting recessed at 11:24am to CCRHD Board
Meeting resumed at 12:55pm - Alternate Director Ivan Bonnell (City of Williams Lake) entered the meeting

Finance:

a) The Board received the monthly expenditures report of Feb 2016 totalling $819,672.59, consisting of $290,913.15 paid by cheque, $453,132.59 paid through electronic funds, and $75,626.85 paid by MasterCard

b) The Board approved the audit engagement letter for the 2015 fiscal year financial audit from PMT Chartered Professional Accountants LLP

c) The Board agreed the Insurance Deductible Contingency Fund be increased to and maintained at $100,000 and that Policy No. 03-02B-5(16) Global Claim Deductible Contingency Fund be amended accordingly

d) The Board approved the 2016 Business Plan for the 103 Mile Water Service

Administration:

a) The Board received the results of Special Voting authorizing the submission of an NCLGA Resolution concerning CONSULTATION WITH LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FOR INDUSTRIAL PROJECTS

b) The Board re-appointed Director Joan Sorley to the North Central Local Government Association Board of Directors'

c) The Board received a report of the Corporate Officer concerning notification of updates to the Species at Risk Public Registry and public consultation period, specifically for the Short-eared Owl

d) The Board received a letter from the District of Lillooet for a resolution and letter to Premier Clark calling for the reinstatement of passenger rail service from North Vancouver to Prince George and the Board agreed to provide a letter of support endorsing the call of the District of Lillooet for restoration of passenger rail service between PG to North Vancouver

e) The Board received the Consent Calendar as of March 24th

f) The Board received an item from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities in regards to nomination to their Board of Directors'

g) The Board received two letters as follows:

1) Ministry of Transportation - Outhouse at Reservoir Lake
2) Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation - TNG Strategic Engagement Agreement

Committee or Commission Minutes/Recommendations:

a) The Board received the March 8th minutes of the North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus meeting and endorsed the following recommendations:

1) City of Quesnel Rebranding Project
2) Rural Recreation Budget Expenditures
3) Hazardous Slide Area Designation
4) Tourism Marketing Grant Application for the Backroad to Barkerville
5) Quesnel CRD Meeting Room Office Furniture

b) The Board endorsed the following recommendation from the North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus meeting from January 2016:

That the letter from Mayor Bob Simpson, City of Quesnel, dated December 14, 2015, requesting the CRD to provide an annual contribution of 50% toward the cost of operating the Quesnel Regional Airport, be received. Further, that this request be referred to the April COW Meeting for consideration.

c) The Board received the North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee Minutes of its' March 8, 2016 meeting and endorsed the following recommendations:

1) North Cariboo Arena Project Construction Contract
2) Amendment to North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Financial Plan - Arena Replacement Project
3) Amendment to North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Financial Plan - Rural Recreation Commissions

d) The Board approved a Grant for Assistance for the 100 Mile Flying Club of $1,000 to be divided equally between Electoral Areas G, H and L

e) The Board agreed to waive Policy #02-11B-24 and the following recommendation from the North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee be endorsed:

“That the North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee approve the request from the Director of Emergency Services dated February 16, 2016 outlining a request for donation of surplus physical fitness equipment for use by the Quesnel Volunteer Fire Department.”

f) The Board received an invitation from the University of Northern British Columbia for Director Joan Sorley to attend a lunch reception with UNBC's President Dr. Daniel Weeks, on March 31, 2016 in Quesnel, authorized her to attend and that she be paid mileage to attend this luncheon

Corporate Bylaws:

a) The Board gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings to the following Bylaws:

1) Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area J Economic Development Service Establishment Bylaw No. 5016, 2016 and Policy be waived to allow an increase to Area J Discretionary Fund to $10,000
2) Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area K Economic Development Service Establishment Bylaw No. 5017, 2016 and Policy be waived to allow an increase to Area K Discretionary Fund to $10,000

3) Cariboo Regional District Deka Lake Fire Protection Service Boundary Expansion Bylaw No. 5025, 2016

Resolved - That Staff bring forward an amendment to Bylaw #3855 (Area D Economic Development Service Establishment Bylaw) to amend Section 2 (Service Description) for consideration of the Board to be in-line with Section 2 (Service Description) of Bylaws 5016/5017 (Area J/K Economic Development)

b) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings/Adoption to the following Bylaws:

1) Cariboo Regional District Water Services Management Amendment Bylaw No. 5020, 2016
2) 103 Mile Water System Parcel Tax Bylaw No. 5021, 2016
3) Cariboo Regional District Water User Rates Bylaw No. 4995, 2016
4) Cariboo Regional District 108 Mile Water Service Amendment Bylaw No. 4977, 2015
5) 108 Mile Water Service Improvement Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 4978, 2015

Resolved - That the Cariboo Regional District/Community Development Institute Economic Diversification partnership proposal be received, Staff be authorized to submit grant applications and refer the item to the North, Central and South Rural Caucuses for consideration and finally that Area F Ec Dev requisition be raised by $5,000 and a 2016 Business Plan Goal be added in Area F Ec Dev and Area D Ec Dev requisition be raised by $10,000 and a 2016 Business Plan Goal be added in Area D Ec Dev

Resolved - That the following recommendation from the March 23rd CC Joint Committee Meeting be endorsed:

That the agenda item summary from Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, dated March 17, 2016, regarding the Sam Ketcham Pool Upgrade Project Monthly Status Report #9 for January 2016, Report #10 for February 2016 and an Updated Project Cost Estimate from Tango Management Group, be received. Further, that the project budget target be set at up to $13.1 million and that the Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services financial plan be amended accordingly.


6) The Board gave Cariboo Regional District 2016 Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 5024, 2016 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings as amended and Adoption

Directors' Requests:

a) The Board received a report from Director Sorley regarding a recent meeting of the CCBAC Board

b) At the request of Director Forseth - the following item were referred to the April Committee of the Whole meeting - Posting of Alternate Directors names on the CRD Website

c) At the request of Director Coakley - the Board agreed to forward a letter to SD27 in regards to facilitating the use of the Bridge Lake Elementary School gymnasium and library, should Bridge Lake Elementary be closed by the SD27 Board.

d) At the request of Director Armstrong - the Board reviewed the matter of the Treaty Advisory Committee and that a letter be forwarded to the Minister of Aboriginal Reconciliation requesting him to attend an open TAC meeting in April to discuss treaty negotiations

At 3:09pm - The Board convened an In-Camera Meeting as per Sections 90(1a,e and i - appointments, land and communications to/from lawyer) of the Community Charter

At 3:56pm - The Board resumed its' public meeting

Directors' reported out on activities going on their Electoral Area or Municipality

The Board adjourned at 4:22pm

CCRHD Board Highlights - March 24th mtg

Present: Chair J. Massier; Directors Armstrong, Bruce, Forseth, Kemp, Sorley, Richmond, Wagner, Cash, William, Anderson, Coakley, Sharpe, Campsall and Alternate Director L. Roodenburg (Quesnel)

Meeting called to order at 9:30am

Meeting Agenda adopted/Mins of the Feb 26th CCRHD Board meeting adopted

Business:

1) The Board adopted the following Bylaws:

a) Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District 2016 Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 111, 2016
b) Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (GR Baker Memorial Hospital Specialist Offices) Bylaw No. 110, 2016
c) Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (GR Baker Memorial Hospital QUESST Renovation) Bylaw No. 108, 2016
d) Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (GR Baker Memorial Hospital Switchgear Replacement) Bylaw No. 109, 2016

2) The Board received the Consent Calendar, as of March 24th

3) The Board received a letter from Interior Health in regards to their Laundry Services Review

4) The Board received a letter from BC Emergency Health Services in regards to Community Paramedicine in Quesnel and area

5) The Board received a BC Government news release in regards to of 11 new doctors to begin practicing in rural and remote communities in BC, including two new physicians in Quesnel

6) The Board endorsed the audit engagement letter for the 2015 fiscal year financial audit from PMT Chartered Professional Accountants LLP

Meeting recessed at 9:41am
Meeting resumed at 11:30am

Delegation:

Michael McMillan, Chief Operation Officer Northern Interior, and Debbie Strang, Health Service Administrator, Quesnel Health Services, Northern Health, appeared before the Board to provide an update

A Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair, on behalf of the Board, thanked Mr. McMillan and Ms. Strang for their time/information

Meeting adjourned at 12:07pm

Grants combat gangs, youth crime and violence against women

Courtesy of the BC Government Caucus:

Eight community organizations that work to safeguard vulnerable young people from gang involvement and protect victims of domestic, sexual and other forms of violence in Cariboo-Chilcotin will benefit from $167,876 in government grants supporting public safety priorities. 

This is part of a nearly $7.2-million province-wide investment— the largest-ever one-time grants investment in community crime prevention in B.C. — combining $5.5 million in provincial Civil Forfeiture Office proceeds and $1.69 million from criminal forfeiture proceeds.

“These organizations do a great job of reaching out to our at-risk and vulnerable populations and offering them the protection and services they need,” Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett said. “The civil forfeiture program benefits victims of crime and helps keep our communities safe.”

Cariboo-Chilcotin recipients:

·         Boys and Girls Club of Williams Lake: $18,981 for the Atalanta Project. The Boys and Girls Club of Williams Lake will hold weekly sessions throughout the school year with vulnerable female youth at risk of exploitation (13-15 years) including First Nations youth with funding support for a youth worker. A member of the local RCMP detachment and the youth worker will provide outreach and information to build protective factors for female youth at risk of exploitation and connect them with services and police. Issues to be addressed include social media safety, grooming and luring tactics used by traffickers, resources in the community for assistance and confidence/self-esteem. Partners include Women's Contact Society, Williams Lake RCMP, and School District 27 (Williams Lake), including the First Nations Liaison Worker. 

·         Contact Women’s Group Society: $38,005 for a Sexual Assault Community Response Team. This project will develop a co-ordinated cross-sector response to sexual assault in Williams Lake and the surrounding region. The initiative will leverage existing partnerships established through the Williams Lake Interagency Case Assessment Team and seek to broaden the partnership with the inclusion of surrounding First Nation communities. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a collaborative model of service to victims of sexual assault that ensure services are client centred and respectful of victims choices regarding reporting, medical care and healing.

·         Punky Lake Wilderness Camp Society: $19,000 for Innovative Interventions: This project will provide a well-rounded program of pro-social activities, employment training, and educational opportunities to at-risk Aboriginal youth.

·         Punky Lake Wilderness Camp Society/RCMP-based Victim Services (Alexis Creek): $19,315 for Stopping the Violence. The focus of this project is to incorporate aboriginal holistic approaches to assist victims and communities in healing and rebuilding from the impacts of violence against aboriginal women in the Tsilhqot'in Nation. Key project activities include: a women's group and a one-day workshop.

·         Big Brothers Big Sisters of Williams Lake: $19,500 for In-School and Youth Mentoring. Funding will support community partners to expand mentoring services in Williams Lake with an initial emphasis on the In-School Mentoring program. In-School Mentoring provides at-risk youth with a friend and role model to talk to and share the experiences of growing up, within school grounds. For one hour a week during a school year, mentors meet with their mentee and engage in activities such as sports, art, reading, board games and active play.

·         Esk’etemc First Nation: $19,925 for the Education is Power - Esk'etemc Violence Against Women Project: This 15-week project at Alkali Lake involves a series of 10 weekly workshops for women, and involves processing pain and anger through traditional sweat lodge ceremonies. Elders, support people and family members are part of the ceremony and spouses are invited to participate in a healing circle. Parties are encouraged to attend support groups and/or the local treatment centre as part of a lifelong healing process. The second project component involves a five-week focus on the local children who witness violence.

·         100 Mile House and District Women’s Centre Society: $17,530 for Aboriginal Trauma Informed Care. This funding will provide a two day training on Aboriginal trauma informed care for South Cariboo front-line victim service and violence-against-women service providers. Training participants will learn how to recognize impacts of intergenerational trauma and how best to support those people during short- and mid-range crisis intervention. 

·         Denisiqi Services Society: $15,620 for Pathways to Power, Denisiqi’s violence-prevention program which promotes learning and awareness for the purpose of supporting participants to make healthy life choices, gain healthy insights that promote new cycles of behaviour, and strengthen the current and future generations of families. The project includes a four-day workshop in three Chilcotin communities.

In all, more than 250 projects and programs throughout the province will receive a one-time grant. Nearly $2 million is dedicated to gang and youth crime prevention, and more than $3.5 million will go to community services that address violence against women and girls. The remainder will support training and education for frontline victims service workers, police training and special equipment, and restorative justice.

This year a new stream of civil forfeiture grants is dedicated to programs focused on sexual assault, including responses to sexual assault on post-secondary campuses. This builds on our Vision for a Violence Free BC, the province’s long-term strategy to end all forms of violence against women.

To learn more about our government’s Vision for a Violence Free BC, go to: www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/victimservices/shareddocs/pubs/violence-free-bc.pdf

CC Joint Committee - March 23rd mtg

Present from CRD: Co-Chair J. Sorley; Directors B. Kemp, and S. Forseth

Present from City of WL: Councillors S. Nelson, C. Smith, L. Walters and S. Zacharias

Meeting called to order at 5:12pm by Co-Chair J. Sorley.  The Chair acknowledged that the meeting was taking place on Northern Shuswap territory

Meeting Agenda approved/Mins of the Jan 27th CC Joint Committee meeting adopted

Business:

1) 2015 CCACS Grant Program Results

Report from the CCACS Society was reviewed
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - Report received

2) CCACS - Recommendations for Arts and Culture Grants

Report from the CCACS Society was reviewed
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - Report received and the following Grant recommendations be endorsed:

50 Mile Greenbelt, Trail & Heritage Society - $2,150
Cariboo Chilcotin Youth Fiddle Society - $2,000
Cariboo Chilcotin Child Development Centre - $3,000
Cariboo Chilcotin Metis Association - $1,200
Cariboo Potters Guild - $1,400
Community Arts Council of Williams Lake - $3,000
Contact Women’s Society - $1,500
McLeese Lake Recreation Commission - $3,000
Station House Studio and Gallery Society - $750
West Coast Book Prize Society (dba BC Book Prizes) - $1,200
Williams Lake Indian Band - $3,000
Williams Lake Museum and Historical Society - $2,800

TOTAL - $25,000

3) CCACS - Fee for Service Management Committee Report

Report from the Fee for Service Management Committee was reviewed
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - Report received

4) City of Williams Lake - Scout Island Trails Fee for Service Agreement

Report from the City's Corporate Services/Records Management Coordinator was reviewed
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - Report received and that the fee for service agreement for the Scout Island Trail System, in the amount of $12,500 per year as outlined in the Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services Business and Financial Plan, be renewed for a 3-year term, effective January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2018.

5) City of Williams Lake - BC Games Bid Application

Report from City Director of Community Services was reviewed
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - Report from City Staff received, review bid package and report back at next Joint Committee meeting

6) Sam Ketcham Pool Upgrade Project - Monthly Status Reports for January and February 2016 and an Updated Project Cost Estimate

Report from CRD Mgr of Community Services reviewed
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - Report received and That the project budget target for the Sam Ketcham Pool Project be set at up to $13.1 million and that the Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services financial plan be amended accordingly.

Motion  - That the above Resolution be deferred to a Special CC Joint Committee meeting

At 6:35pm - Councillor S. Nelson left the meeting and thus quorum for WL City Council was broken and the meeting recessed until quorum could be re-established

Councillor J. Ryll joined the meeting via teleconference

Meeting resumed at 6:37pm

Debate resumed on the motion to defer.  The Chair, after some time, called the question on the motion and it was declared defeated by the following Vote:

Affirmative - Councillors C. Smith and J. Ryll
Negative - Councillors S. Zacharias, L. Walters and Directors S. Forseth, B. Kemp and J. Sorley

Debate resumed on the Main Motion.  After some time, the Chair called the question on the Main Motion and it was declared approved by the following Vote:

Affirmative - Directors S. Forseth, B. Kemp, J. Sorley; Councillors J. Ryll, L. Walters and S. Zacharias

Negative - Councillor C. Smith

7) Sam Ketcham Pool Upgrade Project – Communications

Report from CRD Mgr of Community Services reviewed
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - Report received

8) Action Page

Action Page reviewed

Resolved - Action Page received and Items 1,3,5 and 8 be removed

Resolved - That the motion "That the project budget target for the Sam Ketcham Pool Project be set at up to $13.1 million and that the Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services financial plan be amended accordingly be now reconsidered

Above motion requires support of 2/3's of WL City Council (3 of 4) and 2/3's of CRD Directors (2 of 3) to pass.  The Chair called the question on the motion and it was declared defeated by the following Vote:

Affirmative - Councillors C. Smith/J. Ryll
Negative - Councillors S. Zacharias/L. Walters and Directors S. Forseth, B. Kemp and J. Sorley

Meeting adjourned at 7:22pm

CC Rural Caucus - March 23rd mtg

Present: Chair S. Forseth; Directors B. Kemp, J. Sorley and B. Anderson

Meeting called to order at 3:05pm

Acknowledgement by the Chair that the meeting is taking place on traditional Northern Shuswap territory

Meeting Agenda approved/Mins of the Feb 24th CC Rural Caucus meeting adopted

The Caucus reviewed the following matters:

1) Donation Request - 25th Anniversary of the Museum of the Cariboo-Chilcotin
2) Donation Request - Upgrades to Viewing Platform- Xatsull Heritage Village
3) 153 Mile Heritage Store Relocation – Options for a Feasibility Study Contribution (Referred by Board from its' Feb 26th meeting)
4) Late Item - 2nd Letter to MOTI concerning speed signs on Westcoast Road (follow up with MOTI Staff and report back)
5) Late Item - Letter to MOTI concerning signage to Soda Creek Cemetery from Highway 97 and along Soda Creek Townsite Rd
6) Action Page

At 3:30pm - The Caucus convened an In-Camera Meeting as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter

At 3:41pm - The Caucus resumed its' public meeting

Meeting adjourned at 3:42pm

Lac La Hache Residents Encouraged to Participate in OCP Survey

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

Community support is critical to the success of an Official Community Plan (OCP) and the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) wants to hear from you if you are a resident of the Lac La Hache area. The CRD is undertaking a review of the Lac La Hache Area OCP and a number of opportunities for the community to help develop and contribute to the OCP have been identified.

A community survey is now available and can be completed online or on paper. Please visit cariboord.ca and select the Lac La Hache OCP link on the home page to take the survey or visit the CRD offices located in 100 Mile House or Williams Lake to pick up a paper copy. The survey is open until April 15, 2016.

Earlier this year, the CRD launched the process to update the Official Community Plan (OCP) for the Lac La Hache Area. The existing Plan was adopted in 1997 and many site specific changes have taken place since then.

“I strongly encourage all residents within the Lac La Hache OCP Area to have your say and complete a survey,” states Electoral Area G Director and CRD Chair Al Richmond. “This is an important process for the community and we want to ensure we develop an updated plan that will meet the needs and wishes of its residents now and for the future.”

Once the update is completed, the document will align community values, aspirations and perspectives for growth within the Lac La Hache Area governed by the OCP. The OCP will identify or include economic development opportunities, an agriculture policy, shoreland management standards, environmental protection and climate change.

The OCP update is expected to be completed this fall and will be presented to the CRD’s Board of Directors for endorsement. Once adopted, the updated OCP will help ensure that decisions from all CRD departments are aligned and working towards a common direction and within the parameters of the OCP.  

The OCP Review is being led by Planning and Environmental Consultants working with the CRD Development Services Department and residents from Lac La Hache. For more information, please contact the CRD’s Development Services Department at 250-392-3351 or 1-800-665-1636. Regular project updates will be provided on the CRD’s website here, on Facebook at facebook.com/CaribooRegion or on twitter at @CaribooRD

WL Council Highlights - March 22nd mtg

Present: Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors I. Bonnell, S. Nelson, C. Smith, and L. Walters

Meeting called to order at 6pm.  Mayor Cobb recognized that the meeting was occurring on traditional Northern Shuswap territory

Meeting Agenda adopted with 1 Late Item/March 8th Council meeting minutes adopted

Delegation:

Mary Forbes, Heritage Advisory Committee Chair appeared before Council to provide updates on Potato House and Heritage Committee

A Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked Ms. Forbes for her updates

Resolved - That the report of the Heritage Advisory Committee (HAC) Chair and the Planner dated March 1, 2016 containing an HAC update be received and Council be encouraged to refer interested prospective HAC Members to the Committee.

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque listings for the periods ending March 10 and 17, 2016

2) Council adopted four recommendations from its' Finance Committee as follows:

a) That pursuant to Finance Committee Report #01-2016 and the report of the Chief Financial Officer dated February 22, 2016, Council approve Staff identifying outside expertise to support the preparation of a business plan for solid waste for the municipality, including an estimated cost.

b) That pursuant to Finance Committee Report #02-2016 and the report of the Chief Financial Officer dated February 22, 2016, the matter of changes in senior government regulations over water content resulting in the possible requirement of construction of a water treatment facility at a cost of approximately $10M be referred to the Public Works Committee, specifically to consider preparation of a current business case identifying the basic options and costs across the City's water infrastructure and which includes a consideration of demand management options as required.

c) That pursuant to Finance Committee Report #03-2016, Council receive the 2016 Fee for Service application from Communities That Care for $7,500 and they be advised that the City will not be entering into a Fee for Service Agreement with them at this time.

d) That pursuant to Finance Committee Report #04-2016, Council receive the letter from Gurmel S. Bains dated July 6, 2015 and he be advised that the City has no plans to extend the Downtown Beautification Area at this time.

3) Council received the proposed Occupancy Agreement with the Williams Lake Central Business Improvement Area for the lands situated at 327 Oliver Street and directed that the required Notice of Disposition be published in accordance with Section 26 (3) of the Community Charter; and further, subsequent consideration of approval of the Occupancy Agreement with the WLCBIA be referred to the April 12, 2016 Regular Council Meeting

4) Council adopted two recommendations from its' Community Services Committee as follows:

a) That pursuant to Community Services Committee Report #01-2016, the report of the Director of Development Services dated March 11, 2016 regarding the Tourism Discovery Centre Vehicle Exhibit be received and Council approve the allocation of City staff resources to the dismantling and removal of the TDC Vehicle Exhibit; and further, that a professional photo be taken of the exhibit prior to dismantling and the photo be displayed at the Museum.

b) That pursuant to Community Services Committee Report #02-2016, the report of the Director of Development Services dated March 11, 2016 regarding the Active Transportation Panel be received and Council support the participation of City staff on the Active Transportation Panel.

5) Council adopted 1 recommendation from its' Committee of the Whole meeting of March 15th as follows:

a) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #13-2016 and the request of the District of Lillooet in their letter dated March 7, 2016, Council support reinstatement of passenger rail service between North Vancouver and Prince George.

6) Council approved use of the City Hall parking lot on Saturday, June 4, 2016 for the 'Capital One Race for Kids' fundraising event taking place in Herb Gardner Park.

7) Council supported the re-appointment of Walt Cobb to the Barkerville Heritage Trust's Board of Directors for a further three year term, commencing July 1, 2016.

8) Late Item - Council agreed to rescind Council Resolution #57/16 and that early budget approval be given to sole source/acquire a Asphalt Recycler in the amount of $110,000 plus taxes

9) Council received the 'Council Information Package' as of March 22nd as follows:

March 9, 2016 - Release re Northern Development CEO Janine North to retire this fall

Resolved - That a letter be forwarded to retiring Northern Development Initiative Trust CEO Janine North and wishing her well in her future endeavours

Council Members gave oral reports on their activities

Meeting adjourned at 6:47pm and after a short recess, Council convened a Special In-Camera Meeting

Province strengthens focus on preventing sexual assault

Courtesy of the BC Government:

The Province today reaffirmed its support for victims of sexual assault in B.C. and its commitment to end this violence as part of its long-term commitment to achieve a Violence Free B.C.

Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Morris visited the Surpassing Our Survival (SOS) Society – which has one of the larger contracts to deliver the Stopping the Violence counselling program in B.C. – to hear about its work with victims and outline steps the Province is taking to eliminate sexual violence.

Morris reiterated that in addition to dedicated, annual funding for service providers like SOS, government will be following through with more grants from civil forfeiture proceeds this year, as promised with the release of the long-term Vision for a Violence Free BC Strategy launched last year. These will support programs and projects focused on preventing sexual violence and supporting victims, including younger women who are statistically at greater risk. More details regarding these grants will be released in the days ahead.

The focus on prevention is also supported by ongoing work by the Ministry of Advanced Education. It has compiled an inventory of the various policies dealing with sexual misconduct on B.C. campuses from each of the province’s 25 public post-secondary institutions. A working group is developing a comprehensive approach to prevent and respond to issues of sexual violence at public post-secondary institutions in B.C. This framework is expected to be completed in the coming months.

In addition, as Premier Christy Clark confirmed last week, government is working on an urgent basis to pass Bill M205, the Post-Secondary Sexual Violence Policies Act, or amend it and pass a similar version of this proposed legislation.

Today, the Province also unveiled an awareness campaign focused on the issue of sexual assault. This expansion of last year’s #SaySomething targets young adults and aims to change attitudes and behaviours that perpetuate sexual violence. The campaign goals include:

• Dispelling myths about sexual assault.
• Raising awareness about sexual assault, with resources on how to offer help or get help.
• Educating bystanders on their role and empowering them to take action.

A host website − www.saysomethingbc.ca − provides information and resources for victims, service providers, and bystanders who want to help.

Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Morris said –

“Front-line services that help victims of sexual violence to become survivors are absolutely critical. But we also need to ensure that those who have been victimized are supported when they speak up, and to promote dialogue that challenges the attitudes behind sexual violence. By funding front-line victim services and counselling, and by dispelling myths and changing behaviours, we believe we will achieve the vision set out in our Violence Free BC strategy.”

Apply now for professional arts project assistance

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Applications are now being accepted for several project-assistance funding programs offered by the BC Arts Council.

• Arts Periodicals – assists arts periodicals not currently receiving operating assistance from the BC Arts Council that are devoted primarily to the first publication of any form of artistic expression, or social, cultural or intellectual commentary or inquiry.
• Professional Arts Training – supports training activities and the development of recognized arts and cultural training programs and organizations in British Columbia. Eligible activities may include specialized training for professional artists and cultural workers or providing specialized training for those committed to pursuing professional careers in the arts.
• Professional Performing Arts (Music, Dance or Theatre) – supports the development, creation, production and/or live performance of classical, experimental, original, traditional and contemporary art forms from all world cultures. Grants are intended to contribute to the successful realization of a single event or activity.
• Professional Literary – supports activities in literary arts in British Columbia. Grants are intended to contribute to the successful realization of a single activity or event, or the artistic programming activities of a literary organization.

Application deadline is April 15, 2016. Guidelines and program details, including eligibility, can be found at: www.bcartscouncil.ca

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, the Province is investing about $60 million in British Columbia's artists, arts organizations and cultural institutions. This includes $24 million to the BC Arts Council – the highest level of funding in the council's history.

Prescribed burns to restore Cariboo-Chilcotin grassland

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations is planning to conduct a series of prescribed burns west of Williams Lake until April 30, 2016, weather conditions permitting.

The following areas will be treated to help restore natural grassland ecosystems:

• Doc English (Becher Prairie): About 230 hectares south of Highway 20, on both sides of Cotton Road.
• Bald Mountain: About 100 hectares east of the Farwell Canyon road, at the six-kilometre mark.
• Farwell Canyon: About 50 hectares on the Farwell Canyon road, from the 28-kilometre mark to the 29-kilometre mark.

Each fire will be carefully monitored at all times by trained BC Wildfire Service personnel.

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 reintroduction of managed, low-intensity ground fires to these grasslands is intended to restore and maintain the grassland plant communities that are native to these areas. This ecosystem restoration work also will improve habitat and forage opportunities for grassland-dependent plants and animals and decrease the risk of catastrophic wildfires.

These controlled burn projects are part of an ongoing ecosystem restoration program administered by the provincial government through the Cariboo-Chilcotin Ecosystem Restoration Committee.

The committee was formed in 2008 to support ecosystem restoration in the Cariboo-Chilcotin and includes representatives from the provincial and federal governments, local First Nations, the BC Cattlemen’s Association, forestry professionals and conservation groups.

Learn More:

To learn more about the Cariboo-Chilcotin Ecosystem Restoration Committee, visit: www.ccerc.net

A factsheet about prescribed burns and ecosystem restoration burns is available online: http://bit.ly/1haDzED

50th International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination

Today is the 50th International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination which takes its' beginnings from Sharpeville, South Africa when local police killed 60 peaceful protestors who take issue with the-then apartheid laws of South Africa. Read more here

BC Government Statement:

In recognition of this upcoming international awareness day, the Government of British Columbia is proud to reaffirm our commitment to a discrimination-free B.C. by also proclaiming March 21, 2016, as the Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination in B.C.

“As B.C.’s Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism, it is my honour to celebrate B.C.’s diversity and the advantages of our multicultural society. Acts of racism and discrimination erode the fabric of our multicultural society. This is why the B.C. government continually seeks new ways to combat racial discrimination throughout our province.

“An average of $1.7 million is invested annually in programs that equip British Columbians with the tools to address racism in their communities. This includes funding programs such as Safe Harbour, developing provincewide networks such as the Organizing Against Racism and Hate network and providing educational programs to help the next generation challenge racism.

“As the most ethnically diverse province in Canada, British Columbia is proof that vibrant, thriving communities depend on the participation of all citizens. It took many hands from various cultures to build this province, and it is these same hands that must help us hold B.C. to the highest standards of respect, harmony and inclusion.”.  View the BC Government Proclamation here

Canadian Government Statement:

“Today, I join Canadians – and people around the world – to recognize the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

“As we approach Canada’s 150th birthday, we can look over our past and see how each successive generation of Canadians has fought to expand liberty to their fellow citizens who had been denied it.

“We have had deeply regrettable moments. But the history of Canada is one in which we constantly challenge ourselves, and each other, one in which we fight racism and discrimination in order to protect equality and justice.

“We still have a lot of work to do. Far too many people around the world continue to be denied their most basic human rights simply because of the colour of their skin, their faith, or their ethnic background.

“On this day, I urge all Canadians to stand against racism and all forms of discrimination whenever and wherever they occur. Diversity is at the very heart of Canada. It is who we are and what we believe in.”

New Recycling Units in Local Parks

Yesterday - I noted, on Twitter,  that the City of Williams Lake installed new recycling units in both Boitanio and Kiwanis Parks.  Picture of the unit in Boitanio Park is below:

Recycling Unit installed in Boitanio Park in front of  pull in lane

After posting this picture yesterday on Twitter - Gary Muraca, who is the City of Williams Lake's Director of Municipal Services, sent me the following, via Twitter:

We received the request from some conscientious kids from a local daycare. Reminded us what's important! #overdue

A big THANK YOU! to Williams Lake City Staff for installing these two recycling units in the two parks who gets the most use by the general public in the City of Williams Lake

~SF

Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of March 21-25

Next week - the following local governments will meet:

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 22nd at 6pm in WL Council Chambers.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation - Mary Forbes, Heritage Advisory Committee Chair re Potato House and Heritage Committee Updates

* Various Committee Reports
* WLCBIA Occupancy Agreement Lease Renewal
* Re-appointment of Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb to the Barkerville Heritage Trust Board

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District: - Meetings as per below

CC Rural Caucus - Meeting on Wednesday, March 23rd at 3pm in the CRD Committee Room (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Requests for Financial Support from the Museum of the Cariboo-Chilcotin/Xat'sull First Nations
* Board Referred Item - 153 Mile Store Proposal
* Action Page

View the full Agenda here

CC Joint Committee - Meeting on Wednesday, March 24th at 5pm in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* 2015 CCACS Grant Results
* 2016 CCACS Project Grant recommendations
* CCACS Fee for Service Management Committee Report
* CCACS - Scout Island Trail Fee for Service Agreement
* City of WL Council Request - BC Games bid application
* Sam Ketcham Pool Project - Jan/Feb 2016 Updates and Discussion on Communications

View the full Agenda here

CCRHD Board - Meeting on Thursday, March 24th at 9:30am in the CRD Board Room.  On the Agenda

* Adopt 3 Capital Expenditure Bylaws
* Adopt 2016 CCRHD Budget Bylaw
* Consent Calendar
* Receive Item from Interior Health re: Laundry Services within IHA Region
* Receive Item from BC Emergency Health Service re: Community Paramedicine Initiative
* Audit Engagement Letter for 2015 CCRHD Financial Statements
* Delegation - 11:30am: Micheal MacMillan (COO - Northern Health) and Debbie Strang, Health Service Administrator - Northern Health to provide an update on affairs within the Quesnel Health Services Area

View the full Agenda here

CRD Board - Meeting on Thursday, March 24th at 9:45am in the CRD Board Room.  On the Agenda:

* Various Planning Items
* Request from District of Lillooet for Letter of Support to restore Passenger Rail Service
* Committee/Commission Recommendations for endorsement
* Consent Calendars (Admin/Finance)
* Requests from Directors Armstrong (Treaty Advisory Committee), Forseth (3 items for referral to the April Committee of the Whole meeting) and Coakley (letter to SD27 re: collaboration on future use of Bridge Lake School)

There will be also an In-Camera Session as per Sections 90(1a,e and i - appointment, land and communication to/from lawyer) of the Community  Charter

View the full Agenda here