Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Nov 28 - Dec 2

Only the City of Williams Lake/District of 100 Mile House are meeting next week, as follows:

Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole meeting on Tuesday, Nov 29th at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: John Birkic, Master Class 369 Consulting and Curt Levens and Brian Hansen, Williams Lake Youth Soccer Association re: Proposal for Land for a New Soccer-Multi Sport Complex

* Proposed Skate Park Land Allocation, by Kiwanis Park
* Entrance Road - 351 & 375 Mandarino Place
* City Hall Phone System

View the full Agenda here

100 Mile House - Special Council Meeting on Tuesday, Nov 29th at 6:30pm in 100 Mile Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue).  On the Agenda:

* 100 Mile House Fire Rescue Paid on Call Rates
* Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1304, 2016
* Fees and Charges Bylaw 1303, 2016

View the full Agenda here

CCRHD Board Highlights - Nov 25th mtg

Present: Chair J. Massier; Directors T. Armstrong, J. Bruce, S. Forseth, B. Kemp, J. Sorley, A. Richmond, M. Wagner, R. William, B. Anderson, B. Coakley, R. Sharpe, B. Simpson (9:33am) W. Cobb, M. Campsall and TNRD Area 'E' Director S. Watson

Meeting called to order at 9:32am
Meeting Agenda adopted/Nov 4th CCRHD Board Meeting Minutes adopted

Quesnel Director B. Simpson entered the meeting at 9:33am

MOB Delegations received

Business:

1) Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure Amendment (GR Baker Memorial Hospital QUESST Renovation) Bylaw No. 125, 2016 was given 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption

2) The Board received the Hospital Consent Calendar as of Nov 25th, 2016

3) The Board received a letter from the Honourable Terry Lake, Minister of Health, dated October 25, 2016, regarding the CCRHD's support for the need of updating the Hospital District Act and request for the Ministry of Health to host a province-wide session with all regional hospital districts

4) The Board received the news release from the Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice, dated November 16, 2016, regarding the Tick Tock Find us a Doc campaign

5) The Board received the Capital Projects and Planning Status report from Interior Health, for October 2016

Meeting recessed at 9:37am
Meeting resumed at 11:47am

Delegation:

Isobel Mackenzie, BC Seniors Advocate, appeared before the Board to speak about seniors housing concerns and health issues in the Cariboo region

A Question/Answer period ensued

Chair Massier, on behalf of the Board, thanked Ms. Mackenzie for her time/information

The Board adjourned at 12:32pm

CRD Board Highlights - Nov 25th mtg

Present: Chair A. Richmond; Directors T. Armstrong, J. Bruce, J. Massier, S. Forseth, B. Kemp, J. Sorley, M. Wagner, R. William, B. Anderson, B. Coakley, R. Sharpe, B. Simpson, W. Cobb, M. Campsall

Meeting called to order at 9:45am
Meeting Agenda adopted/Nov 4th CRD Board Meeting Minutes adopted

MOB Delegations received and Blackwater Gold be invited to present at a future Board meeting

Business:

Development Services

a) After a public hearing - the Board gave 3rd Reading to South Cariboo Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5051, 2016 and South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5052, 2016 (Area L)

b) After a public hearing, the Board rejected 150 Mile House Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5053, 2016 as it is not necessary due to removal of crown land from the zoning amendment and Williams Lake Fringe and that 150 Mile House Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5054, 2016 was given 3rd Reading (Area F) subject to adoption being conditional on Management Plans submitted to the Manager of Development Services to her satisfaction and the plans address concerns at the public hearing and that the manufacturing as well as crafts person studio be limited to the interior of the existing building

c) After a public hearing, the Board gave 3rd Reading to 150 Mile House Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5060, 2016 and Williams Lake Fringe and 150 Mile House Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5061, 2016 (Area F) and adoption be subject to MOTI making proof of water  a requirement of subdivision stage

d) The Board adopted Williams Lake Fringe and 150 Mile House Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 4954, 2015

e) The Board agreed to recommend ALR Application ALRH20160057 to the Provincial Agriculture Land Commission for approval

f) The Board received the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission Decisions Report as of November 8, 2016

g) The Board referred the topic of regulating Shipping containers to a meeting of CRD Advisory Planning Commissions' in North, Central and South Cariboo to be held in 2017

h) The Board received the Municipalities’ Building Inspection Statistic Report, Cariboo Regional District Statistic Report and the Inspection Activity Report for the month of September, 2016

i) The Board re-appointed Brent Rutherford, Graham Leslie, Elizabeth Hunter, Phyllis Webstad, Jim Gibson, William Adams, and George Atamanenko to the Heritage Steering Committee for a two-year term ending December 31, 2018.

Environmental Services

a) The Board received the Water/Sewer Projects report
b) The Board authorized $5,000 from the Feasibility Function to study the distribution system for the Lexington Water System as part of the CRD take-over of this water system

Community Services

a) The Board endorsed the following NDIT Application for submission to the local NDIT Regional Advisory Committee/NDIT Board for consideration of approval:

* 3 Nations General Store & Lodging (Area I) with a proviso that the letter of support is also accompanied by a Nazko Band Council Resolution. Board divided.  Approved by the following vote:

Affirmative - Chair Richmond; Directors Armstrong, Bruce, Massier, Forseth, Kemp, Sorley, Wagner, William, Anderson, Sharpe, Simpson, and Campsall

Negative - Area 'L' Director B. Coakley/Williams Lake Director W. Cobb

Meeting recessed at 10:56am
Meeting resumed at 11:08am 

Delegation:

Don Parsons, Chief Operating Officer for Imperial Metals Corporation, and Luke Moger, Project Manager for Mount Polley Mine Corporation, will appeared before the Board to provide an update on the water management plan for Mount Polley Mine.

A Question/Answer period ensued

Chair Richmond, on behalf of the Board, thanked the delegation for their time/information

Meeting recessed to CCRHD Board at 11:47am
Meeting resumed at 1:16pm

Business, cont

The Board endorsed the following NDIT Application for submission to the local NDIT Regional Advisory Committee/NDIT Board for consideration of approval:

* Barlow Creek Ball Fields Phase 2 (Area C)
* Barkerville Shamrock Cottages Phase 2 (Area C)
* Xat’sull Heritage Village Trails Initiative Phase 3 (Area D)

Protective Services

a) The Board received a report from the Mgr of Protective Services on the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations (FLNR) Forest Enhancement Program (FEP)

b) The Board agreed to grant a four month extension for Chiefs and Officers to complete required administrative training with the College of the Rockies

Communications

a) The Board received a report of the Mgr of Communications concerning a Anti-Racism workshop to be hosted in early January and that Directors' wishing to participate be authorized to claim mileage

Finance

a) The Board received/ratified the Monthly Expenditures Board Summary Report and Mastercard Summary Report for the month of October 2016, in the amount of $4,486,262.59

b) The Board approved an amendment to the Tangible Capital Assets Policy to reflect the new asset categories capitalization of Capital Assets and that existing assets be recategorized to comply with the policy.

c) The Board adopted a new Grants for Assistance policy and repealed Grants for Assistance Policy #13-03A-39

Administration:

a) The Board received a report of the Chair concerning recent amendments to the Local Government Act as it pertains to Municipal/Electoral Area Alternate Directors

b) The Board received a request of Director J. Bruce to reconsider the recently approved 2017 CRD Board Meeting Schedule and directed that Board meetings revert to Fridays, except for long weekends (Thursday Board Meeting) and a Board Meeting on Jan 13th, 2017.  Board divided.  Approved by the following vote:

Affirmative - Chair Richmond; Directors Armstrong, Bruce, Massier, Kemp, Wagner, William, Anderson, Coakley, Sharpe, Simpson, Cobb and Campsall

Negative - Directors S.Forseth/J.Sorley (Electoral Areas D/F)

c) The Board received the Consent Calendar, as of November 25th, 2016

d) The Board received a letter from Telus in regards to pay phones in rural areas, in response to a letter from the Cariboo Regional District dated October 5th, 2016

Committee or Commission Minutes/Recommendations:

a) The Board received the Oct 26th CC Rural Caucus Minutes and endorsed the following recommendations:

* 2017 Grant for Assistance Application Approvals (Electoral Areas D,E,F) and that $3,500 be given to the Punky Lake Society from Electoral Area J and $1,000 from Electoral Area K
* Central Cariboo Victim Services Contribution Agreement with the City of Williams Lake
* School District #27 Proposed Boundary Changes - for receipt only

b) The Board received the Nov 3rd Committee of the Whole meeting minutes and endorsed the following recommendations:

* Use of Parcel Taxes and User Fees for Asset Management and Long Term Financial Planning for CRD Utilities
* Regional Airport Function Feasibility Study (North Cariboo in scope) with Regional Management Structure

c) The Board received the Nov 8th North Cariboo Rural Caucus Minutes and referred the following recommendations to the North Cariboo Joint Committee:

* City of Quesnel / CRD Recreation Management Agreement
* Quesnel Community Forest

d) The Board received the Nov 14th South Cariboo Rural Caucus Minutes and endorsed the following recommendations:

* District of 100 Mile House - South Cariboo Cemetery/Burial Services
* South Cariboo Visitor Information Centre – Contribution Agreement Renewal

e) The Board received the Nov 14th South Cariboo Joint Committee Minutes and endorsed the following recommendations:

* 2017 Grants for Assistance Application Approvals
* Solid Waste Management Plan Implementation

Corporate Bylaws

a) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings to Central Alexis Creek Water System Boundary Amendment Bylaw No. 5069, 2016
b) The Board adopted Cariboo Regional District Water Rates Bylaw No. 5068, 2016

Directors' Requests:

a) The Board received a report from Chair Al Richmond concerning Municipal Finance Authority activities for the period of April - September 2016

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

At 2:50pm -- the Board recessed their public meeting and convened an In-Camera Meeting as per Sections 92 and 90(1c - labour) of the Community Charter

At 3:04pm -- the Board resumed their public meeting and adjourned

International Day of the Elimination of Violence Against Women

Statement of the Rt Hon. Justin Trudeau - Prime Minister of Canada:

“An estimated one in three women around the world experience violence in their lifetime. This statistic is unacceptable. It is crucial for all of us – women, men, and youth – to work together to put an end to this violence.

“Violence against women is the world’s greatest and most persistent violation of human rights, leaving women and girls vulnerable and unable to fully participate in society. It damages families, communities, and countries.

“Violence against women is not a women’s issue. Men must boldly work alongside women to combat this violence – and not simply because they have wives, daughters, or sisters. Women deserve the full depth of respect, safety, and dignity, regardless of their relationships with men.

“To change the prevalence of this violence, we must first challenge the attitudes and behaviours that allow this violence to exist, and that allow disrespect for and abuse of women to become commonplace. We must teach our daughters and sons the importance of gender equality and the need to treat everyone with equal respect.

“That is why the Government of Canada is investing in several programs both in Canada and around the world to help promote gender equality, support efforts to prevent gender-based violence, and stop human trafficking.

“Today and throughout the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, I encourage all Canadians not only to think about how their actions matter, but also to stand up against gender-based violence. Get started by joining the conversation online using the hashtag #ActionsMatter. Together, we can create a world that does not tolerate violence against women.”

CRD Finance/Budget Committee Highlights - Nov 24th mtg

Present: Chair M. Wagner; Directors T. Armstrong, J. Bruce, J. Massier, S. Forseth, B. Kemp, J. Sorley, A. Richmond, B. Anderson, B. Coakley, R. Sharpe, and M. Campsall

Meeting called to order at 12:30pm
Meeting Agenda adopted

Business:

1) Review of Revised Draft 2017 Business Plans

Discussion ensued thereon

Meeting recessed at 1:15pm
Meeting resumed at 2:10pm

Discussion resumed on the revised 2017 Business Plans

2) 2017-2021 Financial Plan Discussion/Review

The Committee had before it a report from the CAO
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That the report of the CAO be received

3) 2017-2021 Five Year Financial Plan; Community Works Fund Allocations

The Committee had before it a report from the CFO
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That the report of the CFO be received

4) 2017 – 2021 Five Year Financial Plan Summary Reports

The Committee had before it a report from the CFO
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That the report of the CFO be received

5) 2017 – 2021 Five Year Financial Plan Detail Reports

The Committee had before it a report from the CFO
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That the report of the CFO be received

6) CCCIPC – Request for Funding of Dedicated Invasive Plant Bins at Manned Rural Transfer Stations within the CRD

The Committee had before it a report of the Invasive Plant Coordinator
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That the agenda item summary from Emily Sonntag, Invasive Plant Management Coordinator, dated November 16, 2016, be received. Further, that the Committee endorse the recommendation for the Invasive Plant Management Program to purchase and provide invasive plant material disposal bags to residents rather than fund separate invasive plant bins at manned rural transfer stations within the Cariboo Regional District.

Meeting adjourned at 3:24pm

Infrastructure-Broadband-Cell Committee Highlights - Nov 24th mtg

Present: Chair B. Coakley; Directors S. Forseth and M. Wagner

Meeting called to order at 10:20am

Meeting Agenda/Mins of the Committee meeting held July 25th, 2016 both adopted

Delegation:

1) Falko Kadenbach, Vice-President of ABC Communications, appeared before the Committee to discuss how ABC Communications and the CRD can work together

A Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair, on behalf of the Committee, thanked Mr. Kadenbach for his time/information

Business:

1) East Kootenay RD - Regional Broadband Committee

Resolved - That the documentation from the Regional District of East Kootenay regarding the Regional Broadband Committee in the Columbia Basin-Boundary region, be received

Meeting adjourned at 11:25am

Quesnel Council Highlights - Nov 22nd mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Spectra Energy – Annual Update

Jay Morrison, Lead Government and Community Relations, representing Spectra Energy provided the following annual update regarding:

·         Commitment to Safety

·         Operations in British Columbia

·         Area Update

·         Expansion Projects

·         Enbridge and Spectra Energy Merger

For full details of this PowerPoint presentation, please visit the City’s website.

Accessible Downtown Washrooms & Community Space

Council approved a five year Lease to secure the space for the proposed new accessible downtown washrooms and community space project.  This lease will be effective April 1, 2017 and is for 3,063 square feet.  The key aspects of this project/lease are:

·         Fully accessible public washrooms in the downtown

·         Community space available for sublease

·         Potential Bylaw Enforcement and Policing presence in the downtown

·         Event promotion space which can be used by the City, other groups planning large community events and assist with tourism promotion

It is hoped that the accessible washrooms will be open in April 2017 during regular weekday business hours.  As well a plan is being developed to have these washrooms be available to the public on Saturday’s and during special community events held on Sunday’s.

Preliminary estimates by City Staff indicate a refurbishing budget of $255,000 for the leased area.  Up to $270,000 in capital funding for this project has been provided by:

$90,000        City Capital Contribution (Gas Tax Fund)

$60,000        Northern Development Initiative Fund

$120,000      BC Rural Dividend Fund (Up to 60% of the total)

Net operating costs are expected to be $53,500 annually. 

Next steps include finalizing the project’s layout and engaging with local contractors to complete the necessary work.

Development Variance Permit for Additional Sign

HUB International Brokers has received approval for an additional sign on the north side of the building located at 700-855 Rita Road.  This additional sign does not exceed the total permissible area of signage per business frontage.  This sign meets size requirements, but the variance is to change the number of signs allowed for this business frontage from two to three.

West Quesnel Land Stability Phase II Project - Update

Council heard that due to extreme weather conditions over the summer, and the expansion of the project’s scope, completion of the West Quesnel Land Stability Phase II project was not possible before the onset of winter.  However, the following work has been completed:

·         Three (3) Horizontal drains installed:  One (1) at Abbott Drive and Two (2) at Lewis Drive

·         Four (4) pumping wells complete and tied into the system

·         Two (2) pumping wells near completion on Lewis Drive

·         Outfall area off of Anderson Drive into Baker Creek is near completion

·         Storm drains, paving and sidewalk completed for:

o  Anderson Drive (Baker Creek Bridge to Wade Avenue)

o  Abbott Drive to Flamingo Street

o  Flamingo Street from Abbott Drive to Lark Avenue

·         Paving and Drainage complete on Broughton Avenue and Healy Street

Outstanding Work – Upper Abbott Drive:

·         crush gravel will be laid to cap the road in preparation for winter with the project to end on Friday, November 18, 2016

·         Paving, curb, gutter and sidewalk installation anticipated to occur in mid-2017 with landscaping to follow

·         A Resident Notice, advising of the project’s outstanding work and timetable, was distributed to residents in the area on November 15, 2016

 

Bylaw of the Month – Sidewalk Snow/Ice Removal

The City has been running its Bylaw of the Month program throughout 2016 to develop educational awareness of key components of various municipal bylaws.  The focus for December is the City’s Comprehensive Street, Traffic and Parking Bylaw 1773 and, in particular, the removal of snow and ice by property owners, or occupiers, from designated sidewalks located in the downtown core.  When snow and ice are present, Bylaw Enforcement Officers will monitor to ensure that snow and ice are removed from designated sidewalks before 10:00 a.m.  If a business is closed any day of the week, the business is still responsible to clear sidewalks of snow and ice before 10:00 a.m. and in failure to do so may result in a $100 fine/instance.     To view the affected designated sidewalk areas, as outlined on Schedule “A” of Bylaw 1773, please visit the City’s website, or contact the City’s Bylaw Enforcement department at 250-992-5743.

Next Meetings

·         December 6^th at 7 pm - Regular Council

·         December 13^th at 5:30 pm – North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee

CC Rural Caucus Highlights - Nov 23rd mtg

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

Meeting called to order at 3pm

The Chair acknowledged that the meeting was taking place on the traditional territory of the Northern Shuswap people

Meeting Agenda and Minutes of the October 26th CC Rural Caucus Meeting both approved

Delegations:

1) At 3:02pm, Fred Stafford appeared before the Caucus to discuss how Central Cariboo Directors can work more closely with local 4H clubs

A Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair, on behalf of Caucus, thanked Mr. Stafford for his time/information

2) At 3:20pm, Sam McCarthy and Doina Varzaru from Interior Roads appeared before the Caucus to provide an update on Interior Roads' activities

A Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair, on behalf of Caucus, thanked the delegation for their time/information

3) At 3:34pm, Amy Thatcher/Pat Corbett from the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association appeared before the Caucus to discuss their hotel tax initiative

A Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair, on behalf of Caucus, thanked the delegation for their time/information

Business:

1) Community Transit Partnership Agreement with the City of Williams Lake

The Caucus considered a report of the Mgr of Community Services
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That the agenda item summary from Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, dated October 5, 2016, regarding the Central Cariboo HandyDart Community Transit Partnership Agreement with the City of Williams, be received. Further, that the agreement with the City be renewed for a three-year term with a contribution of $10,000 annually to the City to support Custom Transit Services (HandyDart) for specified areas within the Regional District.

2) Late Item - Report of the Chair concerning Proposed Williams Lake Visitor Information Centre Contribution Agreement

The Caucus considered a report of the Chair
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That the memorandum from Chair S. Forseth be received and that Staff report back at the January meeting as to the tourism marketing program and a copy of the previous contribution agreement

3) Proposed 2017 Central Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus Meeting Schedule

The Caucus considered a report of the Deputy Corporate Officer
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That the agenda item summary from Lore Schick, Deputy Corporate Officer, dated November 15, 2016, regarding the proposed 2017 meeting schedule for the Central Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus, be received. Further, that the following meeting schedule for the Central Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus be endorsed:

Wednesdays on January 25th, February 22nd, March 22nd, April 26th, May 24th, June 21st, September 20th, October 25th, November 22nd

4) Discussion Item - Cabinet Minister Visits to Williams Lake

Discussion ensued
Resolved - Refer to a future Committee of the Whole CRD Board meeting for discussion

5) Action Page

Discussion ensued

Resolved - Action Page received

The meeting adjourned at 4:50pm

WL Council Highlights - Nov 22nd mtg

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

Meeting called to order at 6pm
Meeting Agenda adopted/Mins of the Nov 8th meeting of WL Council adopted

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque listings dated November 10, 17 and 18, 2016

2) Council approved associated costs for Mayor Cobb to attend the 2016 Chief Elected Officials Forum hosted by the Local Government Leadership Academy in Vancouver, BC on December 6 and 7, 2016

3) Council agreed to support the Seeding Start-Ups Pilot Project by providing a $5,000 contribution to the program from the 2017 economic development budget and approve submission of a request to Community Futures Cariboo Chilcotin for a contribution of $2,500 to the Seeding Start-Ups Pilot Project.

4) Council adopted a number of recommendations from its' General Governance Committee as follows:

a) That pursuant to General Governance Committee Report #05-2016 and the report of the Director of Development Services dated October 13, 2016, Staff be requested to develop a street and city property encroachment policy for consideration by Council.

b) That pursuant to General Governance Committee Report #06-2016 and the report of the Director of Development Services dated October 25, 2016, Council support the following actions:

Request BC Transit upgrade of the Williams Lake Transit fleet to the 30 foot light duty bus, with delivery scheduled in the year 2018;
Support the proposed Standardized Lease Fees, and inquire to BC Transit about the premium for three new buses;
Make application to Public Transit Infrastructure Fund to support an implementation strategy for installing the “iNextBus” software in upgraded transit fleet;
Support application(s) by BC Transit to Public Transit Infrastructure Fund for expansion of service frequency along Route 1 in the afternoon peak hours; and for an upgraded fleet;
Support the request for increased HandyDART service and bring the request forward to the attention of transit partners and report back to Council with any similar requests heard in the consultation process;
Investigate and report back to the General Governance Committee as to the advertising on buses and the potential for revenue.

c) That pursuant to General Governance Committee Report #07-2016, the report of the Director of Development Services dated October 27, 2016 regarding property revitalization tax exemptions be received and Staff be instructed to prepare an evaluation of the program and a comparison with other northern communities and report back to Council.

d) That pursuant to General Governance Committee Report #08-2016, the report of the Director of Development Services and the Director of Community Services dated October 27, 2016 regarding the River Valley Partnership Agreement be received and Council approve an extension to the River Valley Partnership Agreement for a further ten years, under the new proposed terms, with the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources.


5) Council authorized Staff to enter into a contract with O-Netrix Solutions to supply new Wireless interconnects and network switches for a total of $8,158.00.

6) Council approved an application to the Federal / Provincial Clean Water and Wastewater Fund (CWWF) Program in support of a Community Water Management Strategy, with funding from the City of Williams Lake in the amount of $34,000 as provided in the 2016 approved Financial Plan;

Council also approved an application to the Clean Water and Wastewater Fund (CWWF) Program in support of the River Valley Storm Drainage, Phase 4, with funding from the City of Williams Lake in the amount of $92,167 as provided in the 2016 approved Financial Plan and Council agreed to allocate an additional $14,600 reserve in the 2017 Financial Plan for Storm Drainage Phase 4, in either year 2017 or 2018.

7) Council adopted a Committee of the Whole recommendation as follows:

a) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #39-2016, the report of the Director of Municipal Services dated November 1, 2016 and the petition dated October 4, 2016 from the Boitanio Street / Haddock Avenue / Mellish Avenue neighbourhood regarding the resident deer issue be received, and Staff be directed to explore partnerships and funding opportunities to develop an education program for residents on “deer proofing” their properties and report back to Council.

8) Council gave approval for the Santa Claus Parade (being held during the Winter Lights Festival taking place Friday, December 2nd through Sunday, December 4th) on Saturday, December 3rd, 2016 at 11:00 AM

9) Council agreed to waive the janitorial service fee for the Williams Lake Community Band's use of the Council Chambers on the evening of Friday, December 9, 2016 for their annual Christmas concert

10) Council received a letter from the BC Medal of Good Citizenship Selection Committee in regards to the Call for Nominations for the British Columbia's Medal of Good Citizenship

11) Late Item - Council agreed to support the participation in two Destination BC Community Consortium applications with a financial commitment of $7000 in total: $5000 to Cariboo Calling and $2000 to the Cariboo/Chilcotin/Coast consortium and approve the City of Williams Lake to be the lead applicant for either or both applications, if required.

12) Late Item - Council deferred consideration of approving $6,000 from the Economic Development 2016 budget to develop an Economic Development microsite until a Request for Proposals process is completed locally.  Council divided.  Approved by the following Vote:

Affirmative - Mayor Cobb; Councillors Bonnell, Nelson, Smith, Ryll and Walters
Negative - Councillor S. Zacharias

13) Council received the 'Council Information Package' as follows:

• November 4, 2016 - CRD Board Highlights.

Members of Council provided oral reports on their recent activities

Meeting adjourned at 7:05pm and after a 5 minute break, Council resumed their In-Camera Meeting

McBride 2nd BC Local Gov't to suffer multiple Council resignations...

After the District of Lantzville, a small community north of Nanaimo, went through mass resignations of 4 Councillors' there last year, the small village of McBride, about 2 hours east of Prince George, becomes just the 2nd community in BC to have a majority of its Council to resign en masse since the start of the 2014-18 term for local governments in BC.  Read more from 250News.com here

Former Saanich Mayor and now Chair of the Agriculture Land Commission, Frank Leonard, commented on Twitter last week that it may be time to review the 4 year term as one possible irritant.  However, I think the situations in Lantzville and McBride are more indicative of personality conflict within these two Councils' when you see mass resignations of Council members constituting a quorum of the aforementioned Municipal Councils'.

When you have personality conflicts in local governments, there needs to be a recognition among all parties that:

a) A problem exists
b) We (Council) are committed to fixing the problem, in the best interest of the community

And NO amount of training will bridge a divide that big when there is such 'cemented' views on a local government, whether a village, town or city council; regional district board or board of education

Meanwhile - BC's Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Peter Fassbender tells the Prince George Citizen that the remaining Council members - McBride Mayor Loranne Martin and the remaining Councillor Rick Thompson - should only act in a "caretaker" capacity until he makes a decision on the situation - declare Martin/Thompson as "official Council quorum" or appoint persons to the vacant Council seats (3) however Minister Fassbender recognizes that a decision from his Ministry needs to occur in fairly short order.  Read more here

I personally hope that the community of McBride is able to, in short order, return to a full complement of 5 Council members and get on with the business of governing for the community

~SF

Quesnel asks "How is Business"?

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Members of the Quesnel Business Walks Team

The City of Quesnel organized the 3rd Annual Business Walks event during Small Business Week on October 20th, 2016. Quesnel was one of the first rural communities to implement this program which is now recognized as an economic development best practice by the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism, and Skills Training and the British Columbia Economic Development Association.

Along with City Economic Development staff, Mayor Bob Simpson and Councillor Laurey-Anne Roodenburg, Community Futures North Cariboo, Quesnel and District Chamber of Commerce, Quesnel Downtown Association and the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism, and Skills Training joined the City as volunteer walkers. All volunteers have a commitment to the success of small business and were excited to speak with businesses owners one-on-one.

The Business Walks program provides an excellent opportunity for the business community to provide input throughout a series of short interview questions. Business owners were honest throughout their responses, and provided excellent feedback to volunteers. This information is presented to the Chamber of Commerce, Community Futures, and each Business Improvement Association to incorporate into their business planning resources and services. It also provides direction to staff and Council on initiatives that are felt across the broader business community. During the 2015 Business Walk, Council and staff heard loud and clear that we need to do a better job of marketing our community. As a result, the rebranding initiative was launched and will be ready to introduce early next year.

“Quesnel is a provincial leader in the Business Walks program and these annual conversations with our business community and business leaders play a critical role in Council’s strategic planning process. Partnering with our business organizations to conduct these annual walks gives Council the opportunity to align the City’s initiatives with our business community’s needs to ensure this sector of our economy remains vibrant.” – Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson

A total of 80 businesses were visited from all business districts and home-based businesses on the basis of being a small business under 50 employees. The visits lasted approximately 15 minutes and business owners were asked the following questions: 1) How is Business? 2) What do you like about doing business in Quesnel? 3a) Are you aware of existing business resources in the community? 3b) How can we best share information with you? 4) What other tools, services, or resources would you like to see help business in Quesnel?

Consistent with responses in previous Business Walks, business owners like doing business in Quesnel because “It’s home!” and “We love the people here!” Most business owners were raised in Quesnel or already lived here and chose to open up business where they identified a market opening.

Businesses that were identified as requiring additional assistance will receive a specialized follow-up with referral to services and agencies that can properly address their concerns. They will also receive a complete small business resource guide, that highlights all local, regional, and provincial businesses resources available to them. The complete Business Walk Report has been made available at www.quesnel.ca/Reports2016.html

Extreme Weather Shelter Spaces in Quesnel

Courtesy of the BC Government:

The B.C. government is funding 10 extreme weather shelter spaces in Quesnel this winter to help people whose health and safety may be threatened by cold, wet weather.

Seasons House, located at 146 Carson Ave., will offer temporary shelter space when an extreme weather alert is activated by the community.

The temporary spaces will be available from now until March 31, 2017. Communities decide what weather conditions warrant an alert and how many spaces to activate on a given night, depending on the capacity of existing shelters and the estimated need.

The Province also funds outreach teams to help connect people with a range of services such as housing, health care and community supports. Last year, more than 7,100 people in B.C. were connected to housing, income assistance and a range of support services by provincially-funded homeless outreach and shelter workers.

The Hon. Coralee Oakes - MLA for Cariboo-North stated:

“The cold and wet conditions in our region make it necessary to ensure that everyone has a dry and safe place to sleep. These temporary spaces at Seasons House will complement our permanent shelter space during the winter months.”

Quick Facts:

Throughout the province, the B.C. government will provide approximately $1.6 million this winter to make close to 1,000 extreme weather shelter spaces available in nearly 75 communities.

These spaces supplement the almost 2,000 permanent, year-round shelter spaces available throughout the province. Most permanent shelter beds are available 24/7 and provide three meals a day.

Since 2001, the B.C. government has invested $4.9 billion to provide affordable housing for low-income individuals, seniors and families.

This year, more than 104,000 B.C. households will benefit from provincial social housing programs and services.

Learn More:

To see a map of permanent and temporary shelters in B.C., please visit: http://www.bchousing.org/Options/Emergency_Housing/Map

For more information on affordable housing programs and the province’s efforts to end homelessness in B.C., please visit: www.housingmattersbc.ca/factsheets.html and: www.bchousing.org

Follow BC Housing on Twitter: @BC_Housing

Snow Removal Reminder from City of Williams Lake

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

With the recent snowfall, the City of Williams Lake Bylaw Department wishes to remind all residents that City policy requires that snow be removed from sidewalks within 24 hours of a snowfall. Not clearing sidewalks can result in fines. Residents are encouraged to ensure that sidewalks adjacent to their property are kept free of ice and snow accumulations, and to offer assistance to any neighbours that may be in need

More information, click here

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

The following local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin are meeting next week as follows:

Quesnel - Policy/Bylaw Review Standing Committee Meeting on Tuesday, Nov 22nd at 1pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Signage in Public Right-of-Way Report
* Sign Bylaw Amendment
* Draft General Complaint and Bylaw Enforcement Policy

View the full Agenda here

Then at 7pm, Quesnel Council will hold a Regular Meeting in Quesnel Council Chambers.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Spectra Energy - Annual Review - Jay Morrison, Lead Government and Community Relations
* Committee Report -- Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee
* Accessible Downtown Washroom
* Development Variance Permit - HUB Insurance
* West Quesnel Land Stability Phase II Project Update
* Bylaw of the Month - Sidewalk Snow Removal Reminder (Commercial Areas)

View the full Agenda here

Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Nov 22nd at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Nov 22nd at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Seeding Start-Ups Pilot Project
* Encroachment Agreements
* Williams Lake Transit
* Property Revitalization Tax Exemptions
* River Valley Partnership Agreement
* Wireless and Network Upgrades
* Clean Water & Wastewater Fund Grant Applications
* COW Recommendation -- Williams Lake Urban Deer Management
* Letter from WLCBIA -- Santa Parade & Winter Lights Festival - December 2, 3 & 4, 2016
* Request for Waiving of Janitorial Fee for Use of Council Chambers - Williams Lake Community Band
* Local Government Leadership Academy CEO Forum - Mayor Cobb's Attendance

View the full Agenda here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Regular Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, Nov 22nd at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations (2) -- We Day 2016; BC Lions - Skills for Life Summit
* Superintendent Report
* Election of SD27 Chair/Vice-Chair for 2016/17
* Development of SD27 Policy -- Conflict of Interest for SD27 Employees
* Policy 1161 Trustee Remuneration

View the full Agenda here

100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 22nd at 7pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Cariboo Regional District: Meetings noted below

North Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, Nov 22nd at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers.  On the Agenda:

* Committee Governance - Reference documents include CRD Procedure Bylaw, Central Cariboo/City of Williams Lake Joint Committee Terms of Reference and City of Quesnel Council Practice and Norms

View the full Agenda here

Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Regular Meeting on Wednesday, Nov 23rd at 3pm in the CRD Williams Lake Committee Room (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* 3 Delegations - 3:00 p.m. - Fred Stafford (CRD Directors working closely with local 4-H Clubs); 3:10pm - Sam McCarthy/Doina Varzaru, Interior Roads (Update); 3:30pm - Amy Thacker, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association (Hotel Tax Initiative)

* Community Transit Partnership Agreement with the City of Williams Lake
* 2017 CC Rural Caucus Meeting Schedule
* BC Cabinet Minister visits to Williams Lake (Discussion Item)

View the full Agenda here

Infrastructure/Broadband/Cell Committee - Regular Meeting on Thursday, Nov 24th at 10am in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Falko Kadenbach, ABC Communications
* Report from Regional District of East Kootenay - Regional Broadband Committee

View the full Agenda here

Finance/Budget Committee - Regular Meeting (2017 Budget Discussions) on Thursday, Nov 24th at 12:30pm in the CRD Boardroom.  View the full Agenda here

Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, November 25th at 9:30am in the CRD Boardroom.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Isobel Mackenzie, BC Seniors Advocate re: Speak about seniors housing concerns and health issues in the Cariboo region
* Capital Expenditure Amendment (GR Baker Memorial Hospital QUESST Renovation) Bylaw No. 125, 2016 - 3 Readings/Adoption
* Hospital Consent Calendar
* Modernization of the Hospital District Act - Response from Ministry of Health
* Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice - Tick-Tock Find us a Doc Campaign
* IHA Capital Projects and Planning Status Report - October 2016

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District Board of Directors - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, November 25th at 9:45am in the CRD Boardroom.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation - Imperial Metals Corporation (Mount Polley Mine)
* Various Land Use Planning Items
* NDIT Grant Applications (4)
* Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations (FLNR) Forest Enhancement Program (FEP)
* Request for Extension to Complete the College of the Rockies Administrative Training
* Consent Calendar
* Letter from Telus re: Payphones in Rural Areas
* Committee or Commission Minutes/Recommendations
* Central Alexis Creek Water System Boundary Amendment Bylaw No. 5069, 2016 (For 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings)
* Cariboo Regional District Water Rates Bylaw No. 5068, 2016 (For 3 Readings/Adoption)
* Municipal Finance Authority of BC Report - Chair Richmond

There is also an In-Camera meeting as per Sections 92/90(1c - labour) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

Community Events This Weekend/Next Week:

* As a result of a large number of craft fairs this coming weekend in the City of Williams Lake - the City will be providing a special transit bus between the various sites. Details here (Transit Schedule) with craft or other special events this weekend (click here)

* WL Cross Country Ski Club Open House at WL Library, Meeting Room - Saturday, Nov 19th from 9:30am to 12:30pm.  More details here

* Quesnel Budget Public Meeting - 7pm on Thursday, November 24th at the Quesnel Seniors Centre (461 Carson Street)

~SF

Quesnel Council Highlights - Nov 15th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

2017 Budget Framework

Council will continue with a three-year budget framework, as established in 2016, with the following framework:

1. Freeze industrial (light and heavy) taxation at 2015 levels;

2. Tax for the City’s capital re-investment program (100% of the tax increases in 2015 and 2016 went to the capital re-investment program reserve).

3. Increase general taxation to cover only inflationary pressures in 2017 and 2018.

4. Continue to look for cost reductions in the City’s operating budget and to actively seek alternative sources of funding to enhance the revenues generated from property taxes and to achieve Council’s strategic priorities (e.g. grants for initiatives and cost sharing programs for capital projects).

5. Adhere to the policy of committing the annual surplus to the capital re-investment program reserve.

 

2016 Quarterly Report – Third Quarter

Please visit the City’s website for full details of the corporation’s third quarter report for 2016 that includes highlights from all City departments as well as the third quarter statistical information.

South Quesnel Truck and RV Parking

Council reviewed the concept design and cost estimates ($1.1 million) for a South Quesnel Truck and RV Parking lot concept that was completed to answer questions around how to improve heavy vehicles parking in South Quesnel.    The proposed location would be on vacant land located in the Balsam Avenue/Rita Road area with close proximity to Highway 97 that would be able to accommodate 15 heavy truck parking stalls. Next steps include reviewing this concept with stakeholders to determine its financial feasibility and identify any partnerships.

2017 Council Indemnities

In keeping with the existing policy, Council Indemnities will increase by 1.8% effective January 1, 2017.  The Consumer Price Index for British Columbia as determined by BC STATS office is the basis for the increase.

2016 Business Walks

On October 20, 2016 teams made up of representatives from the City of Quesnel, Quesnel City Council, Ministry of Jobs, Tourism, and Skills Training, Quesnel Downtown Association, Quesnel and District Chamber of Commerce and Community Futures visited 62 businesses in South Quesnel, West Quesnel, Downtown and Two-Mile Flat areas.  In addition, phone interviews were completed with 18 home–based businesses.  Overall businesses report business activity to be:

·   35% - good/increasing (24% decrease from last year)

·   51% - fair/steady (26% increase from last year)

·   14% - slow/poor (remained steady from last year)

Cariboo Pulp and Paper – Landfill Expansion

Cariboo Pulp and Paper wishes to purchase and rezone a portion of 1279 Sword Avenue, land is currently owned by United Concrete and Gravel, from Country Residential to General Industrial to extend the existing Cariboo Pulp and Paper’s landfill through the creation of additional cells over the coming decades in land where gravel extraction has occurred.  A Public Hearing has been scheduled for 7:00 pm on Tuesday, December 6, 2016 at City Hall Council Chambers.

LED Lighting Upgrade - Airport

This project would see the airport runway be upgraded with LED lighting and Precision Approach Path Indicator lights.  If grant funding is successful this project would be 75% funded by the British Columbia Air Access Program with the City to fund the remaining 25%.  

Municipal Campground and RV Parking Analysis

Staff will submit a grant application for a business case analysis to be completed for a proposed municipal campground and downtown RV parking.  The analysis will look at the cost benefits as well as a proposed business plan, locations and a marketing plan for a municipal campground and RV parking in a centrally located urban area of the City to attract more destination tourists for the downtown core.  This business case analysis may also be utilized by private enterprise looking to create this type of a development in the City’s applicable urban area(s).

Bylaws  

·   Bylaw 1781 – OCP Amendment – Seniors Housing Development (McNaughton Avenue/Reid Street) – Final Adoption

·   Bylaw 1811 - Comprehensive Fees and Charges Bylaw 1683 (Business Licenses) – Final Adoption

·   Bylaw 1813 – Five Year Financial Plan Amendment (Schedule “A”) – Final Adoption

·   Bylaw 1815 – Zone Amendment – Cariboo Pulp and Paper Landfill Expansion – First and Second Reading

 

Next Meetings

·         November 22^nd at 7 pm - Regular Council

·         December 6^th at 7 pm - Regular Council

Finance Committee releases report on Budget 2017 Consultations

Courtesy of the BC Legislature's Finance/Gov't Services Select Standing Committee:

The Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services released its report today (November 15th, 2016) containing the results of its annual budget consultations. The Budget 2017 consultations began on Sept. 15, 2016, with the release of the budget consultation paper by the Minister of Finance.

“The Committee’s recommendations are a direct reflection of the priorities outlined by British Columbians for Budget 2017,” stated Committee Chair, Wm. Scott Hamilton. “We heard many thoughtful suggestions and innovative ideas and we would like to thank everyone who participated in this important process.”

“The Committee received substantive input on the topics of housing and Indigenous peoples and as such, we have highlighted these important themes in our report,” added Deputy Chair Carole James. “The Committee greatly appreciates this opportunity to engage directly with a diverse representation of individuals and organizations from communities throughout B.C.”

The Committee held 14 public hearings throughout the province and heard 236 presentations from various organizations and individuals, either in person or through the use of teleconference or videoconference technologies. Additionally, the Committee received 137 written or video submissions and 332 responses to the online survey prior to the close of the consultation on Oct. 14, 2016.

Recommendations reflect priorities put forth by British Columbians, including: improvements for health care, additional funding for K-12 and advanced education, a continued focus on fiscal prudence and debt reduction, increased investment in the natural resource sector, ongoing preservation of the environment, with a focus on green initiatives and climate change, increased investment to support attainable housing, suggested improvements to transit and transportation infrastructure – including active transportation – further investments to support arts and culture, and ensuring that appropriate levels of supports and services are in place for vulnerable British Columbians.

The Committee’s report is available here

The members of the Committee are:

Wm. Scott Hamilton, MLA Delta North (Chair);
Carole James, MLA Victoria-Beacon Hill (Deputy Chair);
Dan Ashton, MLA Penticton;
Robin Austin, MLA Skeena;
Eric Foster, MLA Vernon-Monashee;
Simon Gibson, MLA Abbotsford-Mission;
George Heyman, MLA Vancouver-Fairview;
Jennifer Rice, MLA North Coast;
Jackie Tegart, MLA Fraser-Nicola; and
John Yap, MLA Richmond-Steveston.

Mid Point of 2014-18 Local Gov't Term

Last night marked the mid-way point of the 4 year 2014-2018 Term of Local Government throughout BC

Thus far since Nov 15th, 2014 - we have had 1 resignation from local elected office and 1 position become vacant in the Region -- 1 from School District #27 and 1 from the District of Wells.  Both are now conducting by-elections to replace those vacant positions (1 Zone 7 SD27 Trustee; 1 District of Wells Councillor)

Generally speaking -- local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin have been cooperative with each other so far and while disagreements on specific items can and do come up, from time to time, there is no outright no cooperation with each other, backing up the old saying "you get more done with honey than vinegar"

While there have been unfortunate examples of how not to conduct oneself in local government (Central Okanagan RD, City of Nanaimo), I truly believe, by and large, that most serving in local government do serve honourably and to the best of their ability deliver on their election commitments and answer to inquiries from their constituents...

250News.com looked at this issue for Prince George City Council on October 31st - read here

For myself - I have been receiving primarily mostly positive feedback on my political performance thus to date from my constituents in CRD Area 'D' and look forward to continuing to serve my constituents for the remaining 2 years of this term.  I thank many elected/non-elected people for helping me to serve my constituents well and also a big thank-you to my Alternate Director, Phyllis Webstad, for standing beside me so far in my 1st term of elected office and being a 'sounding board' for making sure I'm making the right decisions and as I did last year, I am taking her out for lunch on Friday as a thank you for serving as my Area's Alternate Director in 2016...

~SF

Special SD27 Board Mtg - Nov 15th, 2016

Present: Chair T. Guenther, Trustees B. O'Neill, C. Dyment, S. Boehm and L. Nielsen (via teleconference)

Meeting called to order at 6:35pm - the Chair acknowledged the meeting was taking place on traditional Northern Shuswap territory

Meeting Agenda adopted

Public Participation Part 1 (Questions on the Agenda) - None

Business:

1) Zone 7 By-Election -- Appointment of Chief/Deputy Chief Election Officers

Staff responded to questions
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved:

a) THAT the Board of Education advise the Minister of Education of the requirement of the 2017 Zone 7 Trustee By-Election.

b) THAT the Board of Education appoint Secretary Treasurer, Kevin Futcher, as Chief Election Officer for the 2017 Zone 7 Trustee By-Election

c) THAT the Board of Education appoint Connee Newberry, as Deputy Chief Elections Officer for the 2017 Zone 7 Trustee By-Election with compensation to be set at $3,500.00

Public Participation Part 2 (Questions NOT on the Agenda) - None

The Board adjourned at 6:40pm

Election Advertising on the Internet

Editor's Note -- although I just heard of this late last week, this will be welcome news for the provincial election campaign some 6 months from now, the forthcoming School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) Zone 7 By-Election in January 2017 and the mandatory local government elections in October of 2018

Courtesy of Elections BC

August 12, 2016

Elections BC has a new interpretation of election advertising on the Internet. This interpretation applies to both local and provincial electoral events conducted under the Local Elections Campaign Financing Act and the Election Act. This interpretation is also consistent with that established by Elections Canada for federal elections.

Election messages transmitted over the Internet are election advertising only if they meet the applicable definition of election advertising and have, or would normally have, a placement cost.

A placement cost is the cost of purchasing election advertising space on a social media site or other website. For example, the costs of placing banner ads, pre-roll videos or ads on Facebook or other social media sites are placement costs. The costs related to creating, maintaining and posting messages on a website are not placement costs.

Messages without placement costs on the Internet, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media posts, YouTube videos, emails and websites are not election advertising.

This interpretation applies to non-election assent voting advertising, initiative advertising and recall advertising as if it were election advertising.

Questions?

For more information:

Phone toll-free 1-800-661-8683
Mailing address:  PO Box 9275 Stn Prov Govt  Victoria  BC   V8W 9J6
Phone:  250-387-5305 Fax:  250-387-3578 Toll-free Fax:  1-866-466-0665
Email:  electoral.finance@elections.bc.ca
Website:  elections.bc.ca

Public Service

Yesterday - Canadians from coast to coast to coast paid homage/respect to our war veterans, both living/passed away, and those currently serving in the Canadian military like my own brother at CFB Cold Lake as an Air Traffic Controller. 

I even had the double honour yesterday to lay a wreath at the Williams Lake Remembrance Day service, on behalf of the Cariboo Regional District and BC Liberal Cariboo-North MLA Coralee Oakes.  This is a great honour that I have been rewarded with for two years running (2015/2016)

This past Thursday - my uncle, Alan Forseth, posted an article on his own blog in regards to "Public Service" from Steven Puhallo who currently is the Executive Director of the Kamloops North Shore Business Improvement Area Association.  Mr. Puhallo is also currently in a three way race to succeed outgoing BC Liberal Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Dr. Terry Lake as the 2017 BC Liberal Party nominee for Kamloops-North Thompson in the May 2017 BC Election.  The other two candidates are Kamloops Mayor Peter Milobar and Kamloops developer Michael Grenier. 

In Mr. Puhallo's own words - public service, in all of its' forms and it can take a great number of different forms, is:

“What is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow. This is the explanation of life; go and learn.” and “If not us, who? And if not now, when?”

Let us be thankful to all who participate in all forms of public service.  That is how we build strong, prosperous and resilient communities in whatever part of British Columbia you reside in

Read more here

~SF

Remembrance Day 2016

Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Nov 14-18

Next week, the following local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin are meeting:

Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 15th at 7pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Report from Dec 15th, 2015 Closed Council Meeting - Purchase of Land

* Council Committee Reports
* 2017 Budget Framework
* Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure - "Stops of Interest"
* 2016 Third Quarterly Report
* South Quesnel Truck Stop
* 2017 Council Indemnities
* 2016 Quesnel Business Walks
* Quesnel Lions Housing Society (Seniors Housing Development) - Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw (For Adoption)
* Re-Zone Application - Cariboo Pulp and Paper - Landfill Expansion
* British Columbia Air Access Program Grant Application - LED Lights for Airport Runway
* Letter from School District #28 (Quesnel) re: Lack of Consultation on Political Campaign Sign Bylaw

View the full Agenda here

Then on Wednesday, November 16th at 1:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers, the Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee will meet.  On the Agenda:

* Review of Draft 2017 Capital Budget
* Review of Gas Tax Funding

View the full Agenda here

School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Board of Education meeting on Wednesday, Nov 16th at 7pm in the SD28 Boardroom (401 North Star Rd).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Special Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, Nov 15th at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake).  The purpose of the meeting is to select a Chief Election Officer to conduct a by-election in Zone 7 (Chilcotin) for School District #27.  View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session.  Meeting to start at 6pm on Tuesday, November 15th at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St).  The only item on the Agenda is Urban Deer Management Strategy for the City.  View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District: 

South Cariboo Rural Caucus - Meeting on Monday, November 14th at 4pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue).  On the Agenda:

* District of 100 Mile House - South Cariboo Cemetery/Burial Services
* South Cariboo Visitor Information Centre – Contribution Agreement Renewal

View the full Agenda here

Then at 5pm - the South Cariboo Joint Committee will meet in 100 Mile House Council Chambers.  On the Agenda:

* 3 Delegations: 5:00 p.m. - Elcy LePage, Interior Roads Ltd; 5:15 p.m. - Amy Thacker, Central Cariboo Tourism Association; 5:30 p.m. - Tanya Guenther, School District #27 Chair

* Update and Discussion on Solid Waste Management Plan Implementation
* Review of 2017 Grant for Assistance Applications
* South Cariboo Recreation Services 2017 Business and Financial Plans and Capital Projects Plan
* South Cariboo Community Enhancement Foundation Contribution Agreement – Consideration for Extension
* 2017 Proposed South Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting Schedule

View the full Agenda here

Community Events This Weekend/Next Week:

* Remembrance Day Events in the Cariboo-Chilcotin:

Quesnel -- Quesnel Cenotaph 10:30 am; Service at St. Andrew’s Church 12:00 pm; Legion Lounge open at 11:00 am; Luncheon in legion hall1:00 pm *Quesnel pipes & drums

Williams Lake -- Event starts at 9:30am in the Gibraltar Room; then over to WL City Hall by 10:45am with "The Last Post" played at 11am, followed with 2 minutes of silence then afternoon events in the Legion Hall on Barnard Street. View full details here.  Note -- I will be presenting a wreath, both on behalf of the Cariboo Regional District and Cariboo-North MLA Coralee Oakes

100 Mile House -- 100 Mile House Royal Canadian Legion Branch 260 invites you to take part in celebrating Remembrance Day. Gathering for the parade will start at 10:15am across the street from the 100 Mile House Elementary School, travel down Birch Avenue. The Remembrance Day Ceremony will start at 10:55am at the 100 Mile House Community Hall

McLeese Lake - McLeese Lake VFD Christmas Market at the McLeese Lake Community Hall on Forglen Rd from 9am - 3pm.  More details below:

Lots of local events this coming weekend throughout the Region which you can find the details via CaribooRadio.com's Facebook page here

City of WL Recycling Tips/Schedule for 2017

The City of Williams Lake has released its' Recycling Pick Up Schedule for 2017 along with Recycling Tips for City residents'

Click here

~SF

WL Council Highlights - Nov 8th mtg

Present: Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors I. Bonnell, J. Ryll, C. Smith, and S. Zacharias

Meeting called to order at 6pm
Meeting Agenda adopted as amended (2 Late Items) & Minutes of the Oct 18th Regular/Nov 1st Special WL City Council Meetings adopted

Delegation:

Kirsten Stark from the Cariboo-Chilcotin Partners for Literacy appeared before Council to discuss the "Financial Literacy Month" Proclamation

A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked Ms. Stark for her time/information

Resolved -  Council proclaimed the month of November 2016 as "Financial Literacy Month" in the City of Williams Lake

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque listings dated October 19, 20, 24, 27 and November 3, 2016

2) Council accepted an application from 521142 BC Ltd. (the Slumber Lodge), on behalf of Elizabeth and Rosemary Carhoun to rezone property at 27 7th Avenue, gave 1st Reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2251 and referred the Bylaw to MOTI for initial consultation

3) Council agreed to support the City of Williams Lake’s application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust Façade Improvement Program for 2017

4) Council approved a recommendation from the General Governance Committee to deny refunding an rezoning application fee of $850.00 to Amrik & Sawran Badesha

Resolved - That Staff negotiate a right of way agreement with respect to the sanitary sewer line on the Badesha's property with the Badesha's

5) Council approved a 20 year encroachment agreement with Youth for Christ Cariboo, permitting construction of a tiered block wall on part of the City property at 245 Cameron Street with all costs of the agreement being borne by the application

6) Council authorized the sale of a portion of 770 Johnson Street to be consolidated with 752 Johnson Street at a value of $7,600 and directed Staff to complete the necessary legal advertising and contact BCR Properties to release their right of first refusal from that part of 770 Johnson Street

7) Council authorized the budget for a solid waste business plan being increased from $15,000 to $27,000, approved the proposal, and allowed the project to be undertaken by Waste Collective.

8) Council endorsed a Central Cariboo Joint Committee recommendation to approve the 2017 Joint Committee Meeting schedule.  Council divided.  Resolution adopted by the following vote:

Affirmative - Councillors Bonnell, Ryll, Smith and Zacharias
Negative - Mayor W. Cobb

9) Council received/endorsed the Oct 26th, 2016 meeting minutes of the Central Cariboo/City of Williams Lake Joint Committee

10) Late Item #1 - Council authorized the raising of the national Metis flag in honour of Louis Riel on November 16, 2016

11) Late Item #2 - Council appointed Mr. Milo Macdonald as Chief Administrative Officer of the City of Williams Lake in accordance with Section 147 of the Community Charter and City of Williams Lake Officers Bylaw No. 2095, 2010

12) Council received the 'Council Information Package' as of Nov 8th as follows:

• October 14, 2016 - CRD Board Highlights;
• October 17, 2016 - Engage Sport North re Now Accepting Nominations for 2017 Fan the Flame Awards;
• October 2016 - Engage Sport North re Williams Lake Development & Performance Camp Registration Info;
• November 1, 2016 - Williams Lake Hospice Society's 21st Annual Memory Tree Celebration Information;
• November 2, 2016 - Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society Achieves Accreditation from Imagine Canada's Standards Program

Members of Council reported out on their recent activities

Meeting adjourned at 7:02pm

Steve's Meeting/Expense Calendar - October 2016

During the month of October 2016 - I attended the following meetings:

Oct 5/6 - Fraser Basin Council meetings in Vancouver

Oct 11th - Renaming Ceremony - CC Arts Centre 'Great Room' renamed into the 'Graham Kelsey Room'

Oct 13th - Utilities Asset Management/Finance and Budget Committee Meetings

Oct 14th - CCRHD/CRD Board Meetings

Oct 17th - Meeting with the Wildwood Community Association

Oct 18th - Conference Call with the Hon. John Rustad (Minister of Aboriginal Reconciliation)

Oct 26th - CC Rural Caucus/Joint Committee Meetings

Oct 27th - WL/District Chamber of Commerce Monthly Meeting

As for expenses for the month of October 2016:

* $240 for Fraser Basin Council Meetings

* $185 for Budget Committee Meeting on Oct 13th

* $185 for CCRHD/CRD Board Meetings on Oct 14th

Cariboo RD concerned with 2-Tier Electrical Rates

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

At last week's Cariboo Regional District (CRD) Board meeting, the Board of Directors passed a resolution in opposition to the current two-tiered system for electricity rates in B.C. The Board strongly disagrees with how rural customers living in northern climates are penalized under the two-tiered rate system.

The current system for electricity rates is unfair for rural customers in northern climates who have higher rates of electricity use simply due to their geographic location and the harsher realities of winter. Electricity rates should take into consideration the average electricity consumption for northern climates and customers should not be penalized with high rates for living in a northern climate.

The Board also is concerned that the two-tier electricity rates are a hardship for low-income residents.
BC Hydro and FortisBC have submitted reports on the impacts of the Residential Inclining Block Rate to the BC Utilities Commission. The BC Utilities Commission is now requesting comments on those reports.

The Board reviewed the reports and strongly disagrees with the premises expressed. The CRD will be submitting a comment to the Commission expressing their concerns and their disagreement with the reports from BC Hydro and FortisBC.

The CRD Board also urges residents to read the reports and submit their comments to the BC Utilities Commission. Residents can provide comments by mail, email or through the Commission's Letter of Comment Form found online at bcuc.com/Register-Letter-of-Comment. The deadline for submissions is Thursday, Nov. 24, 2016.

The reports, titled BC Hydro Utility Report and FortisBC Utility Report, can be found on the Commission's website at bcuc.com under Current Proceedings > BCUC RIB Rate Report > Hearing and Other Documents or bcuc.com/ApplicationView.aspx?Applicationld=506.