In the month of December 2016 - I attended the following meetings/events:
* Dec 7th -- McLeese Lake Recreation Commission Meeting
* Dec 8th - Meeting with CRD Staff re: CRD Libraries
* Dec 9th - MLA Oakes Christmas Open House
* Dec 11th - McLeese Lake Annual Christmas Dinner
* Dec 14th - Meeting with WL Community Forest Manager Ken Day
* Dec 15th - CRD First Nation Relations Committee/Committee of Whole Board Meetings
* Dec 16th - CCRHD/CRD Board Meetings
* Dec 21st - Annual "Thank You" Lunch - CRD Area 'D' Advisory Planning Commission
For expenses submitted during the month of December 2016:
* Dec 15th - $185 for CRD First Nation Relations Committee/Committee of Whole Board Meetings
* Dec 16th - $185 for CCRHD/CRD Board Meetings
* Dec 21st - $108.85 for Annual "Thank You" Lunch - CRD Area 'D' Advisory Planning Commission
~SF
Friday, December 30, 2016
Thursday, December 29, 2016
2017 District of Wells By-Election
Earlier this year, Richard Wright - a former District of Wells Councillor, submitted his resignation from elected office and given his resignation took place earlier than January 2018 (month that Wells Council could theoretically waive the requirement for an by-election, given a general election later that year), Wells Council, at its' December 19th special meeting, appointed Mr. Andrew Young - Wells CAO - as Chief Election Officer for the Saturday, March 4th, 2017 by-election to elect one (1) person to hold the office of Wells Councillor for the remainder of the 2014-18 Term
Nominations may be submitted during the period of Tuesday, January 17th to Tuesday, January 27th, 2017
Full details on the full by-election process and how to submit a formal nomination for Wells Councillor can be viewed here
~SF
Nominations may be submitted during the period of Tuesday, January 17th to Tuesday, January 27th, 2017
Full details on the full by-election process and how to submit a formal nomination for Wells Councillor can be viewed here
~SF
Wednesday, December 28, 2016
2017 NCLGA Convention Draft Agenda available
The North Central Local Government Association or NCLGA has made available a draft version of the 2017 NCLGA Convention Agenda which includes the usual Annual General Meeting Session plus learning opportunities and a tour of the Prince Rupert Port as a post-Convention activity for registered NCLGA Delegates
The NCLGA Convention is scheduled to be held from Tuesday, May 2nd - Friday, May 5th, 2017 in Terrace, BC
View the draft Agenda here
~SF
The NCLGA Convention is scheduled to be held from Tuesday, May 2nd - Friday, May 5th, 2017 in Terrace, BC
View the draft Agenda here
~SF
Tuesday, December 27, 2016
2016 Area 'D' Year End Report
As we wind down 2016 and I've now reached the mid-point of my 1st elected term- I thought I would take an opportunity to look back at the year that was...
Firstly - let me thank all of you in the various communities that make up Electoral Area 'D' - whether you live in McAlister, McLeese Lake, Tyee Lake, Soda Creek Valley, Deep Creek, Xat'sull, Wildwood, Pine Valley, Commodore Heights, Mile 168 Rd or Fox Mountain - for the great honour to serve you as the Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area 'D' Director. It is a privilege that I take very seriously as I work in partnership with you to make your rural neighbourhood the desirous place you wish it to be. Thanks also to all of YOU for your warm/encouraging comments as I served you this past year. It's nice to know that I'm doing the right things on your behalf
Also - thank you to ALL of the volunteers in the aforementioned communities, it is thanks to your efforts that these rural communities are such great places to live.
As to initiatives that I have been working on this past year:
1) 2017 Cariboo Regional District (CRD) Draft Budget
I am pleased to report that the overall budget will see a tax requisition increase of 1%, Cariboo Regional District wide. Within Electoral Area 'D', you will see, generally, a "status quo" budget. All functions of the CRD that Area D residents' pay for will see either no or very modest increases
Like in 2016, the public consultation for this year's budget will consist of placing of our proposed 2017 Budget in our libraries and posted on our website at http://www.cariboord.ca/services/finance/business-plans. Like always - if you have concerns about the budget or any concern involving the Cariboo Regional District/Area 'D' - you can reach out to me on Facebook, via email at sforseth@cariboord.ca or via phone at 250-267-6725
2) McLeese Lake Community Hall
I was able to secure garbage receptacles, this past fall, for the adjacent Boat Launch, which is owned by MOTI (BC Ministry of Transportation/Infrastructure) so we should not see any garbage laying around the Community Hall property in 2017. I have asked Cariboo-North MLA Coralee Oakes to confirm that MOTI's highway contractor (Emcon Services) will collect the garbage at the Boat Launch on a regular schedule. In 2017 - I hope to work with the McLeese Lake Recreation Commission to do energy efficiency and other upgrades to the Hall itself and the Hall grounds including a possible fishing dock, similar to what is at Reservoir Lake in Pine Valley, to be funded from external sources (grants) so stay tuned!
3) Tyee Lake Forestry Campground/Boat Launch
Earlier this year - Recreation Sites/Trails BC came in to do some works to expand the road going into the Tyee Lake Forestry Campground/Boat Launch. Thanks to Desi Chevigny for getting the work done as it is an improvement over what was there before
4) McLeese Lake Volunteer Fire Department (MLVFD)
Much progress was made by the MLVFD Society to get the MLVFD more fully operational for the community's needs. The CRD gave the MLVFD Society Grants for Assistance in 2016 and for 2017. Their fundraising efforts still continue, as many Independent Fire Departments do throughout BC. The Society was the recipient of a $21,000 grant from the Province in April of 2016. Work progresses on selection of a site for a Fire Hall so I hope this item progresses throughout 2017.
5) McLeese Lake Library
The decision was made this past fall to build a new community library at McLeese Lake, across from the McLeese Lake Resort. CRD Staff/I are wrapping up work on the library site plan now. We are anticipating construction of the new McLeese Lake Library in April of 2017
6) Soda Creek Cemetery
I received a request from the caretakers' of the Soda Creek Cemetery for possible funding to update the fencing at the old/current Soda Creek Cemetery back in late 2015. Progress was slow on this item in 2016 and I hope to have something to announce in 2017 on this
7) Wildwood Community Centre
Unfortunately - 2015 saw the closure of the former Wildwood Elementary School. However, in collaboration with the Wildwood Community Association, plans are underway to acquire the property to convert it into a community centre. Progress was slow on this item in 2016 however I am hoping to see fruit on this item in 2017
8) Dog Control Service - Commodore Heights/Pine Valley/Wildwood
As a result of two requests for a dog control service in both Wildwood/Pine Valley - I am working with CRD Staff to present something to the communities of Wildwood/Pine Valley in 2017. The City of Williams Lake has advised that they have no capacity to provide this service to Wildwood/Pine Valley. I am hoping to have a public meeting in the 1st half of 2017 with the affected communities
9) Wildwood Sewer System
This is to advise that I am working with CRD Staff to schedule a meeting with Wildwood community members in regards to proposed user fee increases and the future financial sustainability of the Wildwood Sewer System, given no increase have been done since 2000. I suspect the meeting will occur in the months of February/March 2017, prior to the adoption of the CRD Budget in late March 2017
10) Building Inspection in Area D
In Spring 2017 - those residing in Electoral Area D, north of Wildwood, will be receiving a letter from the Regional District asking for your consent to be removed from the CRD's Building Inspection Function. I am hoping to have this process complete by June 2017. Should this be approved by affected Area D residents', those living north of Wildwood up to Marguerite within Area D will no longer pay into Building Inspection for the 2018 Property Tax Year
Other initiatives that I was involved with in 2016 included:
* Attend LGLA/NCLGA/UBCM Conferences in Richmond, Dawson Creek and Victoria respectively
* Financial Contributions to Tyee Lake Community Association AGM and Xat'sull Save the Salmon event at the Xat'sull Heritage Village in the Soda Creek Valley
* Continue to participate on the Public Liaison Committee with respect to Mt Polley
* Participate in the 'Communities that Care' initiative, on behalf of CRD Area 'F' Director Joan Sorley as her Alternate...
And much more....
While it is not my nature to single out individuals - I want to thank both my Alternate Director, Phyllis Webstad and CRD Area F Director Joan Sorley for their advice/support this past year which has been, very challenging on a mental/physical health level at times this past year and their words of support/advice have been and continue to be appreciated as I serve the constituents of Electoral Area 'D' to the best of my knowledge/ability.
As for 2017 - I plan to report out on what I'm up to often as I can plus my monthly expenses/meeting calendar as well - both here and on my Facebook page which you can view at https://www.facebook.com/Steve-Forseth-CRD-Area-D-Director-530711320407846/?ref=hl
On my own behalf - I wish ALL of your families a very happy/healthy 2017
Steve Forseth
Director - Electoral Area 'D'
Cariboo Regional District
Ph: 250-267-6725
E: sforseth@cariboord.ca
Firstly - let me thank all of you in the various communities that make up Electoral Area 'D' - whether you live in McAlister, McLeese Lake, Tyee Lake, Soda Creek Valley, Deep Creek, Xat'sull, Wildwood, Pine Valley, Commodore Heights, Mile 168 Rd or Fox Mountain - for the great honour to serve you as the Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area 'D' Director. It is a privilege that I take very seriously as I work in partnership with you to make your rural neighbourhood the desirous place you wish it to be. Thanks also to all of YOU for your warm/encouraging comments as I served you this past year. It's nice to know that I'm doing the right things on your behalf
Also - thank you to ALL of the volunteers in the aforementioned communities, it is thanks to your efforts that these rural communities are such great places to live.
As to initiatives that I have been working on this past year:
1) 2017 Cariboo Regional District (CRD) Draft Budget
I am pleased to report that the overall budget will see a tax requisition increase of 1%, Cariboo Regional District wide. Within Electoral Area 'D', you will see, generally, a "status quo" budget. All functions of the CRD that Area D residents' pay for will see either no or very modest increases
Like in 2016, the public consultation for this year's budget will consist of placing of our proposed 2017 Budget in our libraries and posted on our website at http://www.cariboord.ca/services/finance/business-plans. Like always - if you have concerns about the budget or any concern involving the Cariboo Regional District/Area 'D' - you can reach out to me on Facebook, via email at sforseth@cariboord.ca or via phone at 250-267-6725
2) McLeese Lake Community Hall
I was able to secure garbage receptacles, this past fall, for the adjacent Boat Launch, which is owned by MOTI (BC Ministry of Transportation/Infrastructure) so we should not see any garbage laying around the Community Hall property in 2017. I have asked Cariboo-North MLA Coralee Oakes to confirm that MOTI's highway contractor (Emcon Services) will collect the garbage at the Boat Launch on a regular schedule. In 2017 - I hope to work with the McLeese Lake Recreation Commission to do energy efficiency and other upgrades to the Hall itself and the Hall grounds including a possible fishing dock, similar to what is at Reservoir Lake in Pine Valley, to be funded from external sources (grants) so stay tuned!
3) Tyee Lake Forestry Campground/Boat Launch
Earlier this year - Recreation Sites/Trails BC came in to do some works to expand the road going into the Tyee Lake Forestry Campground/Boat Launch. Thanks to Desi Chevigny for getting the work done as it is an improvement over what was there before
4) McLeese Lake Volunteer Fire Department (MLVFD)
Much progress was made by the MLVFD Society to get the MLVFD more fully operational for the community's needs. The CRD gave the MLVFD Society Grants for Assistance in 2016 and for 2017. Their fundraising efforts still continue, as many Independent Fire Departments do throughout BC. The Society was the recipient of a $21,000 grant from the Province in April of 2016. Work progresses on selection of a site for a Fire Hall so I hope this item progresses throughout 2017.
5) McLeese Lake Library
The decision was made this past fall to build a new community library at McLeese Lake, across from the McLeese Lake Resort. CRD Staff/I are wrapping up work on the library site plan now. We are anticipating construction of the new McLeese Lake Library in April of 2017
6) Soda Creek Cemetery
I received a request from the caretakers' of the Soda Creek Cemetery for possible funding to update the fencing at the old/current Soda Creek Cemetery back in late 2015. Progress was slow on this item in 2016 and I hope to have something to announce in 2017 on this
7) Wildwood Community Centre
Unfortunately - 2015 saw the closure of the former Wildwood Elementary School. However, in collaboration with the Wildwood Community Association, plans are underway to acquire the property to convert it into a community centre. Progress was slow on this item in 2016 however I am hoping to see fruit on this item in 2017
8) Dog Control Service - Commodore Heights/Pine Valley/Wildwood
As a result of two requests for a dog control service in both Wildwood/Pine Valley - I am working with CRD Staff to present something to the communities of Wildwood/Pine Valley in 2017. The City of Williams Lake has advised that they have no capacity to provide this service to Wildwood/Pine Valley. I am hoping to have a public meeting in the 1st half of 2017 with the affected communities
9) Wildwood Sewer System
This is to advise that I am working with CRD Staff to schedule a meeting with Wildwood community members in regards to proposed user fee increases and the future financial sustainability of the Wildwood Sewer System, given no increase have been done since 2000. I suspect the meeting will occur in the months of February/March 2017, prior to the adoption of the CRD Budget in late March 2017
10) Building Inspection in Area D
In Spring 2017 - those residing in Electoral Area D, north of Wildwood, will be receiving a letter from the Regional District asking for your consent to be removed from the CRD's Building Inspection Function. I am hoping to have this process complete by June 2017. Should this be approved by affected Area D residents', those living north of Wildwood up to Marguerite within Area D will no longer pay into Building Inspection for the 2018 Property Tax Year
Other initiatives that I was involved with in 2016 included:
* Attend LGLA/NCLGA/UBCM Conferences in Richmond, Dawson Creek and Victoria respectively
* Financial Contributions to Tyee Lake Community Association AGM and Xat'sull Save the Salmon event at the Xat'sull Heritage Village in the Soda Creek Valley
* Continue to participate on the Public Liaison Committee with respect to Mt Polley
* Participate in the 'Communities that Care' initiative, on behalf of CRD Area 'F' Director Joan Sorley as her Alternate...
And much more....
While it is not my nature to single out individuals - I want to thank both my Alternate Director, Phyllis Webstad and CRD Area F Director Joan Sorley for their advice/support this past year which has been, very challenging on a mental/physical health level at times this past year and their words of support/advice have been and continue to be appreciated as I serve the constituents of Electoral Area 'D' to the best of my knowledge/ability.
As for 2017 - I plan to report out on what I'm up to often as I can plus my monthly expenses/meeting calendar as well - both here and on my Facebook page which you can view at https://www.facebook.com/Steve-Forseth-CRD-Area-D-Director-530711320407846/?ref=hl
On my own behalf - I wish ALL of your families a very happy/healthy 2017
Steve Forseth
Director - Electoral Area 'D'
Cariboo Regional District
Ph: 250-267-6725
E: sforseth@cariboord.ca
Sunday, December 25, 2016
Christmas Day 2016 Messages
From the Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau - Prime Minister of Canada:
“Merry Christmas, Canada!
“The holiday season is truly my favourite time of the year. As we come together with loved ones, let us reflect on how fortunate we are to call this beautiful country home.
“Living in Canada comes with a responsibility to be there for each other – and not just during this time of year, but each and every day. After all, Canadians helping others – no matter the distance that separates them – is what this country is all about.
“When tragedy struck Fort McMurray, and thousands of Canadians were forced to leave their homes, thousands more came together to make sure evacuated families had a place to stay, clothes to wear, and food to eat.
“Today, as Canadians continue to welcome Syrian refugees, we open our hearts and homes to those most in need. Together, we demonstrate that better is always possible and that, in difficult times, we are at our very best.
“So, during this season of hope, let us reach out to those who are hurting most. Let us give back in whatever way we can, and make sure this holiday season is a happy time for everyone. There is no holiday tradition more timeless than that.
“I also ask you take a moment to remember the brave women and men of the Canadian Armed Forces – and their families – who make incredible sacrifices to protect our country.
“As we look to the new year, and get ready to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday, I know our best days are yet to come.
“From Ella-Grace, Hadrien, Xavier, Sophie and me, to your family: Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and all the best in 2017.”
From the Hon. Christy Clark - Premier of British Columbia:
“This Christmas, in communities throughout British Columbia, homes will be filled with warmth, love, and the spirit of giving.
“For many of us, Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, the only Son of God. For all of us, the holiday season is a chance to spend time with the people we love.
“However you choose to celebrate the season, we can best honour the spirit of Christmas by remembering the less fortunate – our neighbours who struggle to make ends meet, or put a roof over their children’s heads. If you have the time or money to lend a helping hand, you can make a tremendous difference in someone’s life.
“From my family to yours, I wish all British Columbians a Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and a very happy 2017.”
From Steve Forseth - Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area 'D' Director:
It is my hope that today finds my constituents spending quality time with their loved ones. But let us remember those who are less fortunate than ourselves, our seniors who may have no one to visit them and those working in emergency services -- RCMP, Fire, Ambulance, Search/Rescue and those working in ER's (doctors/nurses) -- they are giving their time up with their families to serve us all. For that, I thank you and acknowledge your sacrifice!
2016 was busy for myself and I expect 2017 to be no less
From myself to all my constituents in Electoral Area 'D' - my best wishes for you and your families, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and all my best to you and yours in 2017"
“Merry Christmas, Canada!
“The holiday season is truly my favourite time of the year. As we come together with loved ones, let us reflect on how fortunate we are to call this beautiful country home.
“Living in Canada comes with a responsibility to be there for each other – and not just during this time of year, but each and every day. After all, Canadians helping others – no matter the distance that separates them – is what this country is all about.
“When tragedy struck Fort McMurray, and thousands of Canadians were forced to leave their homes, thousands more came together to make sure evacuated families had a place to stay, clothes to wear, and food to eat.
“Today, as Canadians continue to welcome Syrian refugees, we open our hearts and homes to those most in need. Together, we demonstrate that better is always possible and that, in difficult times, we are at our very best.
“So, during this season of hope, let us reach out to those who are hurting most. Let us give back in whatever way we can, and make sure this holiday season is a happy time for everyone. There is no holiday tradition more timeless than that.
“I also ask you take a moment to remember the brave women and men of the Canadian Armed Forces – and their families – who make incredible sacrifices to protect our country.
“As we look to the new year, and get ready to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday, I know our best days are yet to come.
“From Ella-Grace, Hadrien, Xavier, Sophie and me, to your family: Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and all the best in 2017.”
From the Hon. Christy Clark - Premier of British Columbia:
“This Christmas, in communities throughout British Columbia, homes will be filled with warmth, love, and the spirit of giving.
“For many of us, Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, the only Son of God. For all of us, the holiday season is a chance to spend time with the people we love.
“However you choose to celebrate the season, we can best honour the spirit of Christmas by remembering the less fortunate – our neighbours who struggle to make ends meet, or put a roof over their children’s heads. If you have the time or money to lend a helping hand, you can make a tremendous difference in someone’s life.
“From my family to yours, I wish all British Columbians a Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and a very happy 2017.”
From Steve Forseth - Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area 'D' Director:
It is my hope that today finds my constituents spending quality time with their loved ones. But let us remember those who are less fortunate than ourselves, our seniors who may have no one to visit them and those working in emergency services -- RCMP, Fire, Ambulance, Search/Rescue and those working in ER's (doctors/nurses) -- they are giving their time up with their families to serve us all. For that, I thank you and acknowledge your sacrifice!
2016 was busy for myself and I expect 2017 to be no less
From myself to all my constituents in Electoral Area 'D' - my best wishes for you and your families, Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and all my best to you and yours in 2017"
Friday, December 23, 2016
CRD Area F 2016 Year End Report
Yesterday, Joan Sorley - the Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area 'F' Director, published her annual 2016 Year End Report to her constituents
A very good read - click here
Note to Readers: I will be publishing my annual Area D Year End Report on Tuesday, Dec 27th, 2016. Until then, Merry Christmas to you and your families...
~SF
A very good read - click here
Note to Readers: I will be publishing my annual Area D Year End Report on Tuesday, Dec 27th, 2016. Until then, Merry Christmas to you and your families...
~SF
Thursday, December 22, 2016
Increased School District Funding
Courtesy of the BC Government:
Each and every one of British Columbia’s 5,676 new students will be funded, thanks to an extra $46.7 million that will flow to school districts with increased enrolments this school year, Education Minister Mike Bernier announced yesterday
“B.C.’s strong economy is attracting families from other provinces and other countries – and this means new students in our school system after years of decline,” Bernier said. “Our strong economy also means we have the ability to make investments like today’s and make sure every single new student is fully funded.”
Forty-two of B.C.’s 60 school districts had enrolment increases this school year, while 18 saw declines. It’s important to note that in many districts, the number of students was stable with the changes being relatively small. For example, 14 districts had fluctuations of fewer than 25 students either way.
The districts with the highest growth in numbers of students were:
Surrey (+993)
Langley (+697)
Abbotsford (+484)
Sooke (+572)
Comox (+427)
“The B.C. School Trustees Association is pleased with Minister Bernier's confirmation that the Ministry of Education will be fully funding this year's additional students, as previously indicated," said Teresa Rezansoff, president of the B.C. School Trustees Association. "Likewise, the recognition of the need for predictable funding going forward will greatly assist boards with their upcoming 2017-2018 budget process.”
The funding boost maintains the provincial commitment to keep the average per-pupil rate the same as it was at the start of the school year, which helps districts with their financial planning. In fact, the record high average per-pupil rate will increase to $8,969 for this school year.
The ministry is also providing funding protection to 17 districts with enrolment declines to help mitigate the impact of those changes.
School districts were informed of the funding in the updated Operating Grant Manuals released to them this week and published on the ministry's website.
Quick Facts:
* In total there are 532,113 full-time equivalent students enrolled in B.C.’s public schools.
* In September 2016, there were 1,672 students with refugee backgrounds with 500 of those being newly identified refugees in the system in September 2016 – 330 are from Syria.
* Despite recent increases, enrolment in public schools is 55,000 students lower than it was in 2001 largely driven by declining birth rates.
* The total Ministry of Education budget is more than $5.6 billion.
Learn More:
Enrolment by school district: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Fall_2016_School_District_Enrolments.pdf
Updated 2016-17 Operating Grant Manuals: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/administration/resource-management/k-12-funding-and-allocation/operating-grants/k12funding-16-17
For School Districts #27/28:
Quesnel (SD 28) -- Student Population in Sept 2015 (3,058) vs Sept 2016 (3,044). Down 14 students
Cariboo-Chilcotin (SD 27) -- Student Population in Sept 2015 (4,553) vs Sept 2016 (4,563). Up 10 students
Accordingly, School District #27's Interim Operating Grant for 2016-17 Fiscal Year will be up $400,000 versus last year (2015-16)
Each and every one of British Columbia’s 5,676 new students will be funded, thanks to an extra $46.7 million that will flow to school districts with increased enrolments this school year, Education Minister Mike Bernier announced yesterday
“B.C.’s strong economy is attracting families from other provinces and other countries – and this means new students in our school system after years of decline,” Bernier said. “Our strong economy also means we have the ability to make investments like today’s and make sure every single new student is fully funded.”
Forty-two of B.C.’s 60 school districts had enrolment increases this school year, while 18 saw declines. It’s important to note that in many districts, the number of students was stable with the changes being relatively small. For example, 14 districts had fluctuations of fewer than 25 students either way.
The districts with the highest growth in numbers of students were:
Surrey (+993)
Langley (+697)
Abbotsford (+484)
Sooke (+572)
Comox (+427)
“The B.C. School Trustees Association is pleased with Minister Bernier's confirmation that the Ministry of Education will be fully funding this year's additional students, as previously indicated," said Teresa Rezansoff, president of the B.C. School Trustees Association. "Likewise, the recognition of the need for predictable funding going forward will greatly assist boards with their upcoming 2017-2018 budget process.”
The funding boost maintains the provincial commitment to keep the average per-pupil rate the same as it was at the start of the school year, which helps districts with their financial planning. In fact, the record high average per-pupil rate will increase to $8,969 for this school year.
The ministry is also providing funding protection to 17 districts with enrolment declines to help mitigate the impact of those changes.
School districts were informed of the funding in the updated Operating Grant Manuals released to them this week and published on the ministry's website.
Quick Facts:
* In total there are 532,113 full-time equivalent students enrolled in B.C.’s public schools.
* In September 2016, there were 1,672 students with refugee backgrounds with 500 of those being newly identified refugees in the system in September 2016 – 330 are from Syria.
* Despite recent increases, enrolment in public schools is 55,000 students lower than it was in 2001 largely driven by declining birth rates.
* The total Ministry of Education budget is more than $5.6 billion.
Learn More:
Enrolment by school district: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Fall_2016_School_District_Enrolments.pdf
Updated 2016-17 Operating Grant Manuals: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/education-training/administration/resource-management/k-12-funding-and-allocation/operating-grants/k12funding-16-17
For School Districts #27/28:
Quesnel (SD 28) -- Student Population in Sept 2015 (3,058) vs Sept 2016 (3,044). Down 14 students
Cariboo-Chilcotin (SD 27) -- Student Population in Sept 2015 (4,553) vs Sept 2016 (4,563). Up 10 students
Accordingly, School District #27's Interim Operating Grant for 2016-17 Fiscal Year will be up $400,000 versus last year (2015-16)
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Election in SD27 Zone 7
This past Monday - the Deputy Chief Election Officer for School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) declared that an election was necessary to elect a Trustee to represent Zone 7 (Chilcotin) on the Board of Education - School District #27 for the remainder of the 2014-18 Term. General Voting Day is Saturday, January 21st, 2017.
The necessary by-election for a Trustee to represent Zone 3 (District of 100 Mile House) will proceed once 100 Mile District Council appoints a Chief Election Officer to conduct the by-election. I am expected this sometime in January. The current SD27 Zone 3 Trustee, Chris Pettman, will resign from his position at the end of December.
View the Declaration of Election by Voting - Zone 7 - below from School District #27:
The necessary by-election for a Trustee to represent Zone 3 (District of 100 Mile House) will proceed once 100 Mile District Council appoints a Chief Election Officer to conduct the by-election. I am expected this sometime in January. The current SD27 Zone 3 Trustee, Chris Pettman, will resign from his position at the end of December.
View the Declaration of Election by Voting - Zone 7 - below from School District #27:
2016.12.19 Declaraion of Election by Voting by Steve Forseth on Scribd
Tuesday, December 20, 2016
WL Council Highlights - Dec 20th mtg
Present: Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors I. Bonnell, J. Ryll, C. Smith, L. Walters and S. Zacharias
Meeting called to order at 6:02pm
Meeting Agenda adopted/Minutes of the Dec 6th, 2016 WL Council meeting adopted
Presentation:
Councillor C. Smith, on behalf of Council, presented a Certificate of Appreciation, box of garbage bags and a blanket to Mr. Wilber Saunders for his dedication to picking up garbage throughout the City
Delegation:
a) Kristine Wilker and Jennifer Bowman from the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations appeared before Council to discuss Douglas-fir Beetles in the Williams Lake Area
A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked the delegation for their time/information
Business:
1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque listings dated December 8 and 15, 2016
2) Council authorized registration, accommodation and associated expenses for Councillor Laurie Walters to attend the Premier's 'BC Natural Resource Forum' from January 31 to February 1, 2017 in Prince George, BC
3) Council gave 2nd Reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2251 (27 7th Avenue South - old Slumber Lodge site) and directed that a Public Hearing be scheduled for January 24, 2017 at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers
4) Council gave 1st Reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2254 (behind the Walmart building at Prosperity Way Shopping Centre), referred the application to Ministry of Transportation/Infrastructure for initial consultation and that Staff report back to Council
5) Council agreed to inclusion of the geotechnical service contract within the 2017 Development Services business plan and budget, with priorities as described in the report of the Director of Development Services, dated December 15, 2016
6) Council adopted Williams Lake Cemetery Bylaw No. 2252, 2016 & Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 2253, 2016
7) Council endorsed the following Committee of the Whole recommendations, as follows:
a) Council approve the recommended revisions to Traffic Control Bylaw No. 2093 and Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2196, and “City of Williams Lake Traffic Control Amendment Bylaw No. 2255” and “City of Williams Lake Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 2256” be introduced and given 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings
b) Staff be directed to prepare a letter to the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, supporting holding the CCCTA’s 55th Annual General Meeting and Tourism Summit in Williams Lake in the Fall of 2017.
c) Council approve transferring the Information Technology function to the Corporate Services department, and the required upgrades be included in the 2017 operating budget, with future upgrades to basic IT infrastructure funded through the annual IT operating budget.
d) Council support the Community Forest’s application to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities for the proposed pilot project for the creation of a landscape-level shaded interface wildfire fuel break around Williams Lake.
8) Council agreed to support the NDIT application from the Williams Lake Youth Soccer Association for a grant of up to $10,000 for the development of a new Multi-Purpose Indoor Field Sport Facility Business Case from the Cariboo Chilcotin/Lillooet Combined account.
9) Council received the 'Council Information Package' as follows:
• December 9, 2016 - District of Kitimat Releases Open Letter Appealing Canada to Add Value to Natural Resources
Members of Council reported out on their recent activities
CAO MacDonald provided a verbal report as to his activities
Media Question Period -- CAO MacDonald/Mayor Cobb responded to questions from the media
Council adjourned at 6:54pm and after a brief recess, Council then went into an In-Camera Meeting as per Section 90(1g - potential/actual litigation) of the Community Charter
Meeting called to order at 6:02pm
Meeting Agenda adopted/Minutes of the Dec 6th, 2016 WL Council meeting adopted
Presentation:
Councillor C. Smith, on behalf of Council, presented a Certificate of Appreciation, box of garbage bags and a blanket to Mr. Wilber Saunders for his dedication to picking up garbage throughout the City
Delegation:
a) Kristine Wilker and Jennifer Bowman from the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations appeared before Council to discuss Douglas-fir Beetles in the Williams Lake Area
A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked the delegation for their time/information
Business:
1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque listings dated December 8 and 15, 2016
2) Council authorized registration, accommodation and associated expenses for Councillor Laurie Walters to attend the Premier's 'BC Natural Resource Forum' from January 31 to February 1, 2017 in Prince George, BC
3) Council gave 2nd Reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2251 (27 7th Avenue South - old Slumber Lodge site) and directed that a Public Hearing be scheduled for January 24, 2017 at 7:00 PM in Council Chambers
4) Council gave 1st Reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2254 (behind the Walmart building at Prosperity Way Shopping Centre), referred the application to Ministry of Transportation/Infrastructure for initial consultation and that Staff report back to Council
5) Council agreed to inclusion of the geotechnical service contract within the 2017 Development Services business plan and budget, with priorities as described in the report of the Director of Development Services, dated December 15, 2016
6) Council adopted Williams Lake Cemetery Bylaw No. 2252, 2016 & Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 2253, 2016
7) Council endorsed the following Committee of the Whole recommendations, as follows:
a) Council approve the recommended revisions to Traffic Control Bylaw No. 2093 and Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2196, and “City of Williams Lake Traffic Control Amendment Bylaw No. 2255” and “City of Williams Lake Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 2256” be introduced and given 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings
b) Staff be directed to prepare a letter to the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association, supporting holding the CCCTA’s 55th Annual General Meeting and Tourism Summit in Williams Lake in the Fall of 2017.
c) Council approve transferring the Information Technology function to the Corporate Services department, and the required upgrades be included in the 2017 operating budget, with future upgrades to basic IT infrastructure funded through the annual IT operating budget.
d) Council support the Community Forest’s application to the Union of British Columbia Municipalities for the proposed pilot project for the creation of a landscape-level shaded interface wildfire fuel break around Williams Lake.
8) Council agreed to support the NDIT application from the Williams Lake Youth Soccer Association for a grant of up to $10,000 for the development of a new Multi-Purpose Indoor Field Sport Facility Business Case from the Cariboo Chilcotin/Lillooet Combined account.
9) Council received the 'Council Information Package' as follows:
• December 9, 2016 - District of Kitimat Releases Open Letter Appealing Canada to Add Value to Natural Resources
Members of Council reported out on their recent activities
CAO MacDonald provided a verbal report as to his activities
Media Question Period -- CAO MacDonald/Mayor Cobb responded to questions from the media
Council adjourned at 6:54pm and after a brief recess, Council then went into an In-Camera Meeting as per Section 90(1g - potential/actual litigation) of the Community Charter
Monday, December 19, 2016
2016 CRD Accomplishments
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
Read out by CRD Chair (and Area 'G' Director) Al Richmond at last Friday's Cariboo Regional District Board meeting:
Read out by CRD Chair (and Area 'G' Director) Al Richmond at last Friday's Cariboo Regional District Board meeting:
“Members of the Board, Members of the Media, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Today, I have the distinct pleasure of reviewing the Cariboo Regional District’s key accomplishments and successes for 2016. Looking back over the past year, our region can be proud of its achievements. The CRD experienced many successes in 2016.
The year started with a focus on strengthening our relationships with First Nations. Early in January, we held a Community to Community Forum with the Tsilhqot’in National Government. In February, we signed a tripartite protocol agreement with the Williams Lake Indian Band (T’exelc) and City of Williams Lake. Both of these events were important steps in working together to identify areas of common interest and opportunities to work collaboratively, while gaining a better understanding of our respective cultures and governance models. This focus carried throughout the year as several CRD Directors and staff members attended a Nation2Nation forum in November to join the conversation about economic development and doing business with First Nations. We look forward to continuing these discussions in the coming year.
On February 10, the Cariboo Regional District Board adopted a bylaw to enable the CRD to take over operation of the 103 Mile Water System. Upgrades and improvements to the system have been ongoing throughout the year. On February 27, 108 Mile residents voted to undertake borrowing for improvements to the 108 Mile Water System. The project has been in the design phase this year and construction is expected to start in the spring of 2017.
Early in the year, we launched two Official Community Plan review processes for the South Cariboo and Lac La Hache areas. Throughout 2016, we held advisory committee meetings and open houses. We also surveyed residents and attended community events to raise awareness and obtain feedback about the projects. Both of the OCPs are now in the draft phase and will be finalized early in 2017.
This spring, we broke ground on two recreational projects – the North Cariboo Arena Replacement project in Quesnel and the Sam Ketcham Pool Upgrade project in Williams Lake. Excellent progress has been made on both of these projects this year and both are on track for completion in the fall of 2017. Notwithstanding the support these facilities will be to local efforts to retain and attract young families and professionals, these projects are already paying dividends in our communities through the use of local contractors and suppliers.
In May of 2016, the CRD attended the North Central Local Government Association Conference and Annual General Meeting (AGM) which were held in Dawson Creek. Delegates and their partners were able to attend some great workshops, business sessions and, of course, some spectacular entertainment and social events. I would like to take this opportunity to again thank the many volunteers who dedicated their time and efforts to put on this conference. The hospitality which was offered to delegates and their partners was second to none.
At the beginning of June, the CRD attended the Federation of Canadian Municipalities Conference and AGM in Winnipeg. A highlight was the success of our resolution calling for the federal government to officially declare September 30th as National Orange Shirt Day. We were extremely proud to present this important resolution on the national stage at the conference.
On June 9 and 10, the CRD Board of Directors attended the first of our two annual Board on the Road events. About 90 residents attended the Board on the Road BBQ in Bouchie Lake with all the proceeds going to the Bouchie Lake Community Association. We saw an even larger turnout for our second Board on the Road which took place on September 22 and 23 in Wells. We had 136 residents attend the BBQ and the funds went to the Wells and Area Community Association. The Board also had the privilege to tour the newly opened Wells Primary Care Clinic, which the Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District helped fund.
Thankfully, this summer was quiet in terms of wildfire activity and we did not open our Emergency Operations Centre at all this year. Nevertheless, our summer remained full as we forged new partnerships between the CRD and the People’s Republic of China. In mid-June, we hosted a group of Chinese business investors in coordination with our member municipalities, the Cariboo Chilcotin Tourism Association, Barkerville Historic Town and Park and the Chinese Consulate General in Vancouver. They were able to visit our communities, experience Cariboo hospitality and learn about business and investment opportunities in our region. The partnerships continued later in the summer when we hosted a group of elite Chinese martial artists from the Shaolin Epo Martial Arts School, which attracted another Chinese business delegation to our region. The performance series was a huge success and the group’s following increased as they travelled with a sold-out show in Prince George to finish the tour.
Early in September, we announced a new specialized 9-1-1 text service for residents who are Deaf, Deaf-Blind, Hard-of-Hearing or Speech Impaired (DHHSI). Text with 9-1-1 enables our Deaf and Hard of Hearing children and families to communicate in the same way that anyone else can in an emergency situation.
From September 26 to 30, the Cariboo Regional District Board of Directors attended the annual Union of British Columbia Municipalities convention and AGM which took place in Victoria, B.C. Throughout the convention the CRD met with provincial ministers and staff, attended workshops and spoke to CRD resolutions, which all received endorsement. It was especially momentous to have the Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District receive the UBCM Excellence Award in Partnerships for our collaborative efforts on the Quesnel Primary Care Clinic Project. The clinic opened in May 2016 and is a model interdisciplinary medical care facility and a great asset to our northern communities.
Throughout the year, we have also been building a foundation for our new Cariboo Strong economic development initiative. Early in 2016, we formalized a partnership with the Community Development Institute from the University of Northern British Columbia with the goal of growing a strong region through strong communities. We have gathered significant funding for the project from the Cariboo Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition, West Fraser and the BC Rural Dividend Fund and we have successfully gained support from all our member municipalities, the Village of Clinton and the Thompson-Nicola Regional District. To date, preliminary work has begun in all three of our sub-regions and we are seeing the beginning of on-the-ground action through the formation of the first Action Group, which met for the first time this week. We are excited to see the continued progress on this initiative over the next few years.
Some other highlights from 2016 have been:
· assisting 18 non-profit groups and supporting $745,000 worth of funding requests for community initiatives through our grant writing program;
· celebrating the CRD’s 150 Mile House Volunteer Fire Department’s 35-year anniversary;
· being named as a 2015 Climate Action Community;
· successfully applying to a number of different provincial and federal funding programs such as Destination BC’s Co-operative Marketing Partnerships program, Northern Development Initiative Trust, BC Rural Dividend fund, BC Air Access and Canada Summer Jobs for a total of approximately $141,000; and
· receiving approximately $1.7 million from the Community Works Fund to support green initiatives and energy efficiency projects.
So often we forget how far we have come and the challenges and issues we have overcome or resolved along the way. Part of the reason for this report is to remind you of our accomplishments, and to compliment you on your successes.
Creating new partnerships, enhancing services, undertaking capital projects, informing the public and responding to residents’ needs is what building this region is all about. Our organization will continue to respond to community and residents’ needs thereby achieving our goal of Building Communities Together.
I would like to thank all the Board members and staff for your dedication, perseverance and support throughout 2016. Thank you.”
Friday, December 16, 2016
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Dec 19-23
Only the District of Wells/City of Williams Lake meet next week, as follows:
Wells - Special Council Meeting on Monday, Dec 19th at 5pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue) to appoint a Chief Election Officer for the upcoming by-election to elect a Councillor. View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Dec 20th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart Street). On the Agenda:
* Delegation: Kristine Wilker and Jennifer Bowman, Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations re Douglas-fir Beetles in the Williams Lake Area
* Business:
a) Travel to Attend BC Natural Resource Forum in Prince George, BC (Councillor L. Walters)
b) Two Land Use Applications -- 27 7th Avenue South / Adjacent to Prosperity Way Shopping Centre (Wal-Mart)
c) 4 Committee of the Whole Recommendations for Endorsement
d) Request from Williams Lake Youth Soccer Association to endorse NDIT Application - $10,000 Business Case Development
After Tuesday, Dec 20th -- ALL Local Governments/Boards of Education are off on a Christmas Break until mid-Jan 2017
~SF
Wells - Special Council Meeting on Monday, Dec 19th at 5pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue) to appoint a Chief Election Officer for the upcoming by-election to elect a Councillor. View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Dec 20th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart Street). On the Agenda:
* Delegation: Kristine Wilker and Jennifer Bowman, Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations re Douglas-fir Beetles in the Williams Lake Area
* Business:
a) Travel to Attend BC Natural Resource Forum in Prince George, BC (Councillor L. Walters)
b) Two Land Use Applications -- 27 7th Avenue South / Adjacent to Prosperity Way Shopping Centre (Wal-Mart)
c) 4 Committee of the Whole Recommendations for Endorsement
d) Request from Williams Lake Youth Soccer Association to endorse NDIT Application - $10,000 Business Case Development
After Tuesday, Dec 20th -- ALL Local Governments/Boards of Education are off on a Christmas Break until mid-Jan 2017
~SF
CRD Board Highlights - Dec 16th mtg
Present: Chair A. Richmond; Directors T. Armstrong, J. Bruce, J. Massier, S. Forseth, B. Kemp, J. Sorley, M. Wagner, D. Cash, B. Coakley, R. Sharpe, B. Simpson, W. Cobb, and M. Campsall
Meeting called to order at 9:47am
Meeting Agenda adopted/Nov 25th CRD Board Meeting Minutes adopted
Delegation MOB received
Business:
Development Services:
a) Bylaws 5066/5067 (Area L) were given 1st/2nd Readings
b) Bylaw 4890 (Area G) was given 2nd Reading, as amended
c) Following a Public Hearing - Bylaw 5063 (Area L) was given 3rd Reading
d) The Board agreed to forward ALR Application #L62-2016 (Area L) to the Provincial Ag Land Commission with a recommendation to approve
e) Following Public Hearings in Quesnel, Williams Lake and 100 Mile House -- the Board gave 3rd Reading/Adoption to Bylaws 5039-5044 (All Electoral Areas), pertaining to Ancillary Spaces
f) The Board received Municipalities’ Building Inspection Statistic Report, Cariboo Regional District Statistic Report and the Inspection Activity Report for October 2016
Environmental Services:
a) The Board received the Refuse Site Inspection Report for Sept 7th - Nov 14th, 2016
Community Services:
a) The Board endorsed 8 NDIT Applications as follows:
i) Community Electrification Renewable Energy Project - Xeni Gwet'in
ii) Wells-Barkerville ATV Trail Connector
iii) 2017 Local Government Management Internship
iv) 2017 Business Façade Improvement Program
v) Barkerville Shamrock Cottages Phase 2 and 3
vi) Cariboo Strong
vii) South Cariboo Community Foundation Matching Grant
viii) Anahim Lake Airport Runway Enhancements
And the Board rejected the following NDIT Application:
i) TRU Applied Sustainable Ranching Program
Communications:
a) The Board received a report of the Mgr of Communications concerning Nominations for Canada’s Volunteer Awards
Finance:
a) The Board ratified the Monthly Expenditures Board Summary Report and Mastercard Summary Report for the month of November 2016, in the amount of $3,718,810.81
b) The Board received a report from the Mgr of Financial Services concerning insurance options for CRD community halls and event liability coverage
Meeting recessed at 10:59am to CCRHD Board
Meeting resumed at 11:30am
Delegation:
Richard Tremblay, Vice-President and General Manager for Taseko Mines appeared before the Board to provide an update on the water management plan for Gibraltar Mines Ltd.
A Question/Answer period ensued
Chair Richmond, on behalf of the Board, thanked Mr. Tremblay for his time/information
Meeting recessed at 12:00pm for lunch
Meeting resumed at 12:30pm
Business, cont:
Finance, cont.:
c) The Board received a report from the CAO concerning the provisional 2017-2021 5 Year Financial Plan and endorsed the Plan for public consultation purposes.
Administration:
a) The Board received a press release from the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation concerning NStQ Agreement in Principle with appendices and range overlap maps
b) The Board received an report from the Corporate Officer concerning the potential elimination of the Provincial Sales Tax charged on electricity for industrial/business properties in an effort to protect jobs in rural BC communities and directed a letter be forwarded to the Province requesting elimination of PST charged on electricity for industrial/business properties
c) The Board received the 'Consent Calendar' as of December 16th, 2016
d) The Board received a copy of a letter from Harrison Hot Springs to BC Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Peter Fassbender in regards to Short Term Rentals in the Tourism Accommodation Sector
e) The Board received 4 Letters as follows:
i) BC Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations - Meeting at UBCM - Discussion re 8400 Road (Backway between Barkerville to Likely)
ii) BC Ministry of Environment - Mattress and Bulky Furniture Extended Producer Responsibility
iii) Ministry of FLNRO - Letter to City of Williams Lake and CRD - River Valley Transportation Plan - Board referred the letter to the Jan 18th, 2017 Special Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus Meeting
iv) Ministry of Environment - Follow-up to UBCM Minister Meeting
f) The Board received/endorsed the Prioritization of Board Resolutions report
Committee or Commission Minutes/Recommendations:
a) The Board received the Nov 3rd First Nations Relations Committee Minutes
b) The Board received the Nov 23rd Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus Minutes and endorsed two recommendations from that meeting as follows:
i) Community Transit Partnership Agreement Renewal with the City of Williams Lake
ii) Cabinet Ministers' Visits to Williams Lake - Refer for discussion to a future COW Meeting
c) The Board received the Nov 24th Infrastructure - Broadband/Cell Committee Meeting Minutes
d) The Board received the Nov 24th Finance/Budget Committee Meeting Minutes and endorsed one recommendation from that meeting as follows:
i) Purchase/Provide invasive plant material disposal bags
e) The Board received the Dec 13th meeting minutes of the North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus and endorsed three recommendations from that meeting: i) 25th Annual Gold Rush Dog Run, ii) North Cariboo Sub-Regional Airport Feasibility Study and iii) North Cariboo Trails Project
Invitations:
a) The Board received an invitation to Unsung Heroes of Northern BC ceremony on February 4, 2017, in Prince George
Corporate Bylaws:
a) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Reading and adopted Cariboo Regional District Procedure Bylaw No. 5070, 2016
b) The Board adopted Central Alexis Creek Water System Boundary Amendment Bylaw No. 5069, 2016
Directors' Requests:
a) The Board received a update report from Director J. Sorley in regards to CCBAC Board - November 2016
b) The Board received a update report from Director J. Sorley in regards to NCLGA Board - November 2016
c) The Board received a request of Director Sorley to review bidding for the 2018 NCLGA AGM/Convention
d) At the request of Director J. Massier - the Board agreed to purchase 1,000 envelopes, with inserts, in support of the 2017 25th annual Gold Rush Trail Sled Dog Mail Run Event
e) At the request of Director S. Forseth - the Board authorized $200 from the Area 'D' Discretionary Fund to assist the Wildwood Community Association with the Jan 25th, 2017 Community Awards Night
f) At the request of Director J. Massier - the Board authorized $2,800 from the Area 'C' Discretionary Fund for the replacement of two pit toilets at the Barlow Creek Recreation site
g) At the request of Director J. Sorley - the Board agreed to support Mt Polley Mining Corporation's (MPMC) proposal to discharge into Quesnel Lake, subject to the following conditions:
* That the request for increased discharge limits, as detailed in the attached chart, be denied. The community could support a discharge which met BCWQGs (British Columbia Water Quality Guidelines) at the end of the pipe, without a requirement for a dilution zone. The existing permit limits do not achieve that, and residents' are very upset about increasing the limits.
* That the discharge into Quesnel Lake be limited to a finite period, regardless of when the mine life ends. The proposal calls for a 4-year mine life, and contains timelines for reclamation and closure with the transition of mine contact water being re-directed through passive treatment systems into original watersheds. Currently mill water is being recycled through the TSF in a closed-loop system. The timeline could be agreed upon between MPMC and MoE staff.
* That MPMC work with the residents of Likely and Quesnel Lake to develop and implement an improved communication strategy. Currently the communication is limited to representation on the Public Liaison committee, and while this is satisfactory for most of the PLC members, there is not enough time allowed for those residents directly impacted to have their concerns addressed. The mine has committed to one annual meeting in Likely outside of regulatory requirements, but there is no public process in which the community sets the agenda
And that letters be forwarded to MPMC/Ministry of Environment accordingly
2016 CRD Accomplishments was read out by the Chair
At 1:55pm -- the Board recessed its' public meeting and convened an In-Camera Meeting as per Sections 92 and 90(1b,c,j - municipal award, labour and information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter
At 2:53pm -- the Board resumed its' public meeting
Director D. Cash left the meeting at 2:53pm
Directors' reported out on their recent activities
The Board adjourned at 3:08pm
Meeting called to order at 9:47am
Meeting Agenda adopted/Nov 25th CRD Board Meeting Minutes adopted
Delegation MOB received
Business:
Development Services:
a) Bylaws 5066/5067 (Area L) were given 1st/2nd Readings
b) Bylaw 4890 (Area G) was given 2nd Reading, as amended
c) Following a Public Hearing - Bylaw 5063 (Area L) was given 3rd Reading
d) The Board agreed to forward ALR Application #L62-2016 (Area L) to the Provincial Ag Land Commission with a recommendation to approve
e) Following Public Hearings in Quesnel, Williams Lake and 100 Mile House -- the Board gave 3rd Reading/Adoption to Bylaws 5039-5044 (All Electoral Areas), pertaining to Ancillary Spaces
f) The Board received Municipalities’ Building Inspection Statistic Report, Cariboo Regional District Statistic Report and the Inspection Activity Report for October 2016
Environmental Services:
a) The Board received the Refuse Site Inspection Report for Sept 7th - Nov 14th, 2016
Community Services:
a) The Board endorsed 8 NDIT Applications as follows:
i) Community Electrification Renewable Energy Project - Xeni Gwet'in
ii) Wells-Barkerville ATV Trail Connector
iii) 2017 Local Government Management Internship
iv) 2017 Business Façade Improvement Program
v) Barkerville Shamrock Cottages Phase 2 and 3
vi) Cariboo Strong
vii) South Cariboo Community Foundation Matching Grant
viii) Anahim Lake Airport Runway Enhancements
And the Board rejected the following NDIT Application:
i) TRU Applied Sustainable Ranching Program
Communications:
a) The Board received a report of the Mgr of Communications concerning Nominations for Canada’s Volunteer Awards
Finance:
a) The Board ratified the Monthly Expenditures Board Summary Report and Mastercard Summary Report for the month of November 2016, in the amount of $3,718,810.81
b) The Board received a report from the Mgr of Financial Services concerning insurance options for CRD community halls and event liability coverage
Meeting recessed at 10:59am to CCRHD Board
Meeting resumed at 11:30am
Delegation:
Richard Tremblay, Vice-President and General Manager for Taseko Mines appeared before the Board to provide an update on the water management plan for Gibraltar Mines Ltd.
A Question/Answer period ensued
Chair Richmond, on behalf of the Board, thanked Mr. Tremblay for his time/information
Meeting recessed at 12:00pm for lunch
Meeting resumed at 12:30pm
Business, cont:
Finance, cont.:
c) The Board received a report from the CAO concerning the provisional 2017-2021 5 Year Financial Plan and endorsed the Plan for public consultation purposes.
Administration:
a) The Board received a press release from the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation concerning NStQ Agreement in Principle with appendices and range overlap maps
b) The Board received an report from the Corporate Officer concerning the potential elimination of the Provincial Sales Tax charged on electricity for industrial/business properties in an effort to protect jobs in rural BC communities and directed a letter be forwarded to the Province requesting elimination of PST charged on electricity for industrial/business properties
c) The Board received the 'Consent Calendar' as of December 16th, 2016
d) The Board received a copy of a letter from Harrison Hot Springs to BC Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Peter Fassbender in regards to Short Term Rentals in the Tourism Accommodation Sector
e) The Board received 4 Letters as follows:
i) BC Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations - Meeting at UBCM - Discussion re 8400 Road (Backway between Barkerville to Likely)
ii) BC Ministry of Environment - Mattress and Bulky Furniture Extended Producer Responsibility
iii) Ministry of FLNRO - Letter to City of Williams Lake and CRD - River Valley Transportation Plan - Board referred the letter to the Jan 18th, 2017 Special Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus Meeting
iv) Ministry of Environment - Follow-up to UBCM Minister Meeting
f) The Board received/endorsed the Prioritization of Board Resolutions report
Committee or Commission Minutes/Recommendations:
a) The Board received the Nov 3rd First Nations Relations Committee Minutes
b) The Board received the Nov 23rd Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus Minutes and endorsed two recommendations from that meeting as follows:
i) Community Transit Partnership Agreement Renewal with the City of Williams Lake
ii) Cabinet Ministers' Visits to Williams Lake - Refer for discussion to a future COW Meeting
c) The Board received the Nov 24th Infrastructure - Broadband/Cell Committee Meeting Minutes
d) The Board received the Nov 24th Finance/Budget Committee Meeting Minutes and endorsed one recommendation from that meeting as follows:
i) Purchase/Provide invasive plant material disposal bags
e) The Board received the Dec 13th meeting minutes of the North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus and endorsed three recommendations from that meeting: i) 25th Annual Gold Rush Dog Run, ii) North Cariboo Sub-Regional Airport Feasibility Study and iii) North Cariboo Trails Project
Invitations:
a) The Board received an invitation to Unsung Heroes of Northern BC ceremony on February 4, 2017, in Prince George
Corporate Bylaws:
a) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Reading and adopted Cariboo Regional District Procedure Bylaw No. 5070, 2016
b) The Board adopted Central Alexis Creek Water System Boundary Amendment Bylaw No. 5069, 2016
Directors' Requests:
a) The Board received a update report from Director J. Sorley in regards to CCBAC Board - November 2016
b) The Board received a update report from Director J. Sorley in regards to NCLGA Board - November 2016
c) The Board received a request of Director Sorley to review bidding for the 2018 NCLGA AGM/Convention
d) At the request of Director J. Massier - the Board agreed to purchase 1,000 envelopes, with inserts, in support of the 2017 25th annual Gold Rush Trail Sled Dog Mail Run Event
e) At the request of Director S. Forseth - the Board authorized $200 from the Area 'D' Discretionary Fund to assist the Wildwood Community Association with the Jan 25th, 2017 Community Awards Night
f) At the request of Director J. Massier - the Board authorized $2,800 from the Area 'C' Discretionary Fund for the replacement of two pit toilets at the Barlow Creek Recreation site
g) At the request of Director J. Sorley - the Board agreed to support Mt Polley Mining Corporation's (MPMC) proposal to discharge into Quesnel Lake, subject to the following conditions:
* That the request for increased discharge limits, as detailed in the attached chart, be denied. The community could support a discharge which met BCWQGs (British Columbia Water Quality Guidelines) at the end of the pipe, without a requirement for a dilution zone. The existing permit limits do not achieve that, and residents' are very upset about increasing the limits.
* That the discharge into Quesnel Lake be limited to a finite period, regardless of when the mine life ends. The proposal calls for a 4-year mine life, and contains timelines for reclamation and closure with the transition of mine contact water being re-directed through passive treatment systems into original watersheds. Currently mill water is being recycled through the TSF in a closed-loop system. The timeline could be agreed upon between MPMC and MoE staff.
* That MPMC work with the residents of Likely and Quesnel Lake to develop and implement an improved communication strategy. Currently the communication is limited to representation on the Public Liaison committee, and while this is satisfactory for most of the PLC members, there is not enough time allowed for those residents directly impacted to have their concerns addressed. The mine has committed to one annual meeting in Likely outside of regulatory requirements, but there is no public process in which the community sets the agenda
And that letters be forwarded to MPMC/Ministry of Environment accordingly
2016 CRD Accomplishments was read out by the Chair
At 1:55pm -- the Board recessed its' public meeting and convened an In-Camera Meeting as per Sections 92 and 90(1b,c,j - municipal award, labour and information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter
At 2:53pm -- the Board resumed its' public meeting
Director D. Cash left the meeting at 2:53pm
Directors' reported out on their recent activities
The Board adjourned at 3:08pm
CCRHD Board Highlights - Dec 16th mtg
Present: Chair J. Massier; Directors T. Armstrong, J. Bruce, S. Forseth, B. Kemp, J. Sorley, A. Richmond, M. Wagner, D. Cash, B. Coakley, R. Sharpe, B. Simpson, W. Cobb, M. Campsall and TNRD Area E Director S. Watson
Meeting called to order at 9:30am
Meeting Agenda adopted/Nov 25th CCRHD Board Meeting Minutes adopted
Business:
1) The Board adopted Bylaw #126, 2016 -- Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (Cariboo Memorial Hospital – Portable Ultrasound Machine) Repeal Bylaw
2) The Board received the 'Hospital Consent Calendar' as of Dec 16th, 2016
3) The Board received a Government of BC Press Release entitled "Province Approves Capital Funding for New Housing Projects in Quesnel"
4) The Board received a Northern Health Press Release entitled "NH Connections Schedule Changes During Holiday Season"
5) The Board received an item from Interior Health entitled "Year in Review"
6) The Board approved funding in the amount of $790,420 representing $310,420 of global grants for Interior Health plus 40% of the total cost of the following projects:
* Residential Care Addition, Fischer Place, District of 100 Mile House
* Nursing Station Renovation, 100 Mile District General Hospital, District of 100 Mile House
* Various Information Management Information Technology (IMIT) Projects
* Monitoring System- Physiological, 100 Mile District General Hospital, District of 100 Mile House
And directed Staff to bring forward the necessary capital expenditure bylaws for consideration
Meeting recessed at 9:37am
Meeting resumed at 11:05am
Delegation:
Susan Paulsen, Healthcare Recruitment Coordinator of S. Paulsen Consulting, appeared before the Board to provide an update on recruitment and retention activities in Quesnel.
A Question/Answer period ensued
Chair Massier, on behalf of the Board, thanked Ms. Paulsen for her time/information
The Board adjourned at 11:29am
Meeting called to order at 9:30am
Meeting Agenda adopted/Nov 25th CCRHD Board Meeting Minutes adopted
Business:
1) The Board adopted Bylaw #126, 2016 -- Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Capital Expenditure (Cariboo Memorial Hospital – Portable Ultrasound Machine) Repeal Bylaw
2) The Board received the 'Hospital Consent Calendar' as of Dec 16th, 2016
3) The Board received a Government of BC Press Release entitled "Province Approves Capital Funding for New Housing Projects in Quesnel"
4) The Board received a Northern Health Press Release entitled "NH Connections Schedule Changes During Holiday Season"
5) The Board received an item from Interior Health entitled "Year in Review"
6) The Board approved funding in the amount of $790,420 representing $310,420 of global grants for Interior Health plus 40% of the total cost of the following projects:
* Residential Care Addition, Fischer Place, District of 100 Mile House
* Nursing Station Renovation, 100 Mile District General Hospital, District of 100 Mile House
* Various Information Management Information Technology (IMIT) Projects
* Monitoring System- Physiological, 100 Mile District General Hospital, District of 100 Mile House
And directed Staff to bring forward the necessary capital expenditure bylaws for consideration
Meeting recessed at 9:37am
Meeting resumed at 11:05am
Delegation:
Susan Paulsen, Healthcare Recruitment Coordinator of S. Paulsen Consulting, appeared before the Board to provide an update on recruitment and retention activities in Quesnel.
A Question/Answer period ensued
Chair Massier, on behalf of the Board, thanked Ms. Paulsen for her time/information
The Board adjourned at 11:29am
Thursday, December 15, 2016
Committee of Whole Session (CRD Board) - Dec 15th mtg
Present: Chair A. Richmond; Directors J. Bruce, J. Massier, S. Forseth, B. Kemp, J. Sorley, M. Wagner, B. Coakley, W. Cobb, M. Campsall and Alternate Director M. Sjostrom (Area 'A')
Meeting called to order at 12:30pm
Meeting Agenda adopted/Minutes of the Nov 3rd COW Meeting adopted
Business:
1) Secondary Suite and Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations
The Committee had before it a report from the Development Services Department concerning Secondary Suite and Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the Committee recommend:
Staff be directed to prepare bylaws in accordance with the recommendations contained in the report for referral to all Advisory Planning Commissions and other relevant agencies. Further, that proof of servicing should not be a requirement under the General Provision section, but that applicants be advised to contact the health authority to ensure adquate sewer and water services and that carriage houses be allowed on any size lot.
Meeting recessed at 1:52pm
Meeting resumed at 2:02pm
2) Corporate Priority Reports - Strategic Goals, Routine Business Plan Goals and Additions to Corporate Workplan
The Committee had before it reports concerning Strategic Goals, Routine Business Plan Goals and Additions to Corporate Workplan
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the Corporate Priority reports concerning Strategic Goals, Routine Business Plan Goals and Additions to Corporate Workplan be received
3) Report of Director S. Forseth re: Allocation of FCM Costs to Electoral Area Administration Budget
The Committee had before it a report of Director S. Forseth concerning allocation of FCM Costs to Electoral Area Administration
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
4) Report of Director S. Forseth re: Mount Timothy Ski Society Funding
The Committee had before it a report of Director S. Forseth concerning Mount Timothy Ski Society Funding
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
The Committee adjourned at 2:36pm
Meeting called to order at 12:30pm
Meeting Agenda adopted/Minutes of the Nov 3rd COW Meeting adopted
Business:
1) Secondary Suite and Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations
The Committee had before it a report from the Development Services Department concerning Secondary Suite and Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the Committee recommend:
Staff be directed to prepare bylaws in accordance with the recommendations contained in the report for referral to all Advisory Planning Commissions and other relevant agencies. Further, that proof of servicing should not be a requirement under the General Provision section, but that applicants be advised to contact the health authority to ensure adquate sewer and water services and that carriage houses be allowed on any size lot.
Meeting recessed at 1:52pm
Meeting resumed at 2:02pm
2) Corporate Priority Reports - Strategic Goals, Routine Business Plan Goals and Additions to Corporate Workplan
The Committee had before it reports concerning Strategic Goals, Routine Business Plan Goals and Additions to Corporate Workplan
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the Corporate Priority reports concerning Strategic Goals, Routine Business Plan Goals and Additions to Corporate Workplan be received
3) Report of Director S. Forseth re: Allocation of FCM Costs to Electoral Area Administration Budget
The Committee had before it a report of Director S. Forseth concerning allocation of FCM Costs to Electoral Area Administration
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
4) Report of Director S. Forseth re: Mount Timothy Ski Society Funding
The Committee had before it a report of Director S. Forseth concerning Mount Timothy Ski Society Funding
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
The Committee adjourned at 2:36pm
CRD First Nations Relations Committee Highlights - Dec 15th mtg
Present: Chair J. Sorley; Directors J. Massier, S. Forseth, M. Wagner and B. Anderson
Guests: Area 'B' Director J. Bruce; Area 'G' Director Al Richmond
Meeting called to order at 10:06am.
Agenda adopted/Nov 3rd Committee Meeting Minutes adopted
Business:
1) Status of Recommendations - Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report
The Committee had before it a report of the Deputy Corporate Officer
Discussion ensued there
Resolved - Report received
Meeting adjourned at 10:45am
Guests: Area 'B' Director J. Bruce; Area 'G' Director Al Richmond
Meeting called to order at 10:06am.
Agenda adopted/Nov 3rd Committee Meeting Minutes adopted
Business:
1) Status of Recommendations - Truth and Reconciliation Commission Final Report
The Committee had before it a report of the Deputy Corporate Officer
Discussion ensued there
Resolved - Report received
Meeting adjourned at 10:45am
Wednesday, December 14, 2016
BC Communities receive 2016 Grants in Lieu of Taxes
Courtesy of the BC Government:
The B.C. government has distributed nearly $16 million in compensation for municipal property taxes to 56 communities around the province.
Grants-in-lieu of property taxes are distributed every November and reimburse municipalities for services that benefited government properties, such as municipally run sewers, roads and fire protection.
Grants are issued in accordance with the Municipal Aid Act and are payable on land owned by the provincial government such as courthouses, provincial government office buildings and warehouses.
Schools and hospitals are exempt from paying municipal property taxes and are not part of the grants-in-lieu calculation. Other provincial assets such as highways, forests, parks or land under the control, management or administration of a Crown corporation are also excluded from compensation under the act.
Since 2002, the Government of British Columbia has distributed more than $254 million in grants-in-lieu to B.C. communities. A portion of the funds is paid by each community to its regional district, and both levels of local government use grants to help pay for local services.
The funds are distributed electronically on behalf of government by the Ministry of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services.
For Municipal Councils in the Cariboo-Chilcotin:
District of Wells - $1,186.07
City of Quesnel - $59,397.34
City of Williams Lake - $60,217.79
District of 100 Mile House - $21,060.15
The B.C. government has distributed nearly $16 million in compensation for municipal property taxes to 56 communities around the province.
Grants-in-lieu of property taxes are distributed every November and reimburse municipalities for services that benefited government properties, such as municipally run sewers, roads and fire protection.
Grants are issued in accordance with the Municipal Aid Act and are payable on land owned by the provincial government such as courthouses, provincial government office buildings and warehouses.
Schools and hospitals are exempt from paying municipal property taxes and are not part of the grants-in-lieu calculation. Other provincial assets such as highways, forests, parks or land under the control, management or administration of a Crown corporation are also excluded from compensation under the act.
Since 2002, the Government of British Columbia has distributed more than $254 million in grants-in-lieu to B.C. communities. A portion of the funds is paid by each community to its regional district, and both levels of local government use grants to help pay for local services.
The funds are distributed electronically on behalf of government by the Ministry of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services.
For Municipal Councils in the Cariboo-Chilcotin:
District of Wells - $1,186.07
City of Quesnel - $59,397.34
City of Williams Lake - $60,217.79
District of 100 Mile House - $21,060.15
Quesnel/Lhtako Dene Nation in Dialogue
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
Over the past year, the Lhtako Dene Nation (Red Bluff) and the City of Quesnel have been engaged in dialogue with a view toward seeking partnership opportunities based on mutual respect, recognition, and reconciliation. While the first two meetings were held at the Lhtako Dene community hall, the most recent meeting involving Lhtako Dene elders, band council and community members, the Mayor and city staff was held at City Hall.
One desired outcome of these dialogue sessions is to find meaningful ways for the City to recognize Lhtako Dene’s traditional territory in City Hall, the Museum and Visitor Center and the Airport. Currently, the City is the only public agency in Quesnel that does not recognize Lhtako Dene traditional territory within its buildings.
Another potential recognition outcome is to identify green space areas within the City that are culturally significant to the Lhtako Dene Nation and name these spaces appropriately. At the last meeting between the two communities, the area that is currently called Ceal Tingley Park was identified as a highly significant space for the Lhtako Dene, as portions of the nation’s village were located there and “Lhtako” means where the three rivers meet.
The ultimate intent of these dialogue sessions is to enable the City of Quesnel and the Lhtako Dene Nation to engage in meaningful partnerships that will lead to true reconciliation. The foundation for these partnerships will be framed in a protocol agreement that both parties hope to sign in the New Year
Over the past year, the Lhtako Dene Nation (Red Bluff) and the City of Quesnel have been engaged in dialogue with a view toward seeking partnership opportunities based on mutual respect, recognition, and reconciliation. While the first two meetings were held at the Lhtako Dene community hall, the most recent meeting involving Lhtako Dene elders, band council and community members, the Mayor and city staff was held at City Hall.
One desired outcome of these dialogue sessions is to find meaningful ways for the City to recognize Lhtako Dene’s traditional territory in City Hall, the Museum and Visitor Center and the Airport. Currently, the City is the only public agency in Quesnel that does not recognize Lhtako Dene traditional territory within its buildings.
Another potential recognition outcome is to identify green space areas within the City that are culturally significant to the Lhtako Dene Nation and name these spaces appropriately. At the last meeting between the two communities, the area that is currently called Ceal Tingley Park was identified as a highly significant space for the Lhtako Dene, as portions of the nation’s village were located there and “Lhtako” means where the three rivers meet.
The ultimate intent of these dialogue sessions is to enable the City of Quesnel and the Lhtako Dene Nation to engage in meaningful partnerships that will lead to true reconciliation. The foundation for these partnerships will be framed in a protocol agreement that both parties hope to sign in the New Year
Tuesday, December 13, 2016
SD27 to no longer distribute Gideon Bibles
The BC Humanist Association (Association), a group of Humanists, atheists, agnostics, and the non-religious of Metro Vancouver and British Columbia for over 30 years, was successful in getting the Abbotsford School District to discontinue the distribution of Gideon Bibles in that school district earlier this year, read here.
Now, the Association was able to successfully convince School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) to do the same, confirmed by SD27 Acting Superintendent Mark Wintjes in a phone call to Ian Bushfield, Executive Director of the Association yesterday (Mon, December 12th)
Read the full press release of the Association below:
Now, the Association was able to successfully convince School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) to do the same, confirmed by SD27 Acting Superintendent Mark Wintjes in a phone call to Ian Bushfield, Executive Director of the Association yesterday (Mon, December 12th)
Read the full press release of the Association below:
The BC Humanist Association (BCHA) joins teachers and the President of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Teachers' Association (CCTA) in celebrating School District No 27 decision to end its policy of distributing Gideon Bibles to grade 5 students in the District.
In a phone call in response to the BCHA, SD 27 confirmed today (Dec 12th, 2016) that it would "not permit" the practice to continue. The BCHA argued in a November 29, 2016 letter, that the distribution violates the School Act's requirement that schools be "strictly secular and non-sectarian" and arguably also puts the district in breech of the Charter by promoting one religious viewpoint to the exclusion of others.
The BCHA had asked whether the District would allow other religious or atheist materials, including editions of Godless Comics, to be distributed, if it refused to cease distributing bibles.
Ian Bushfield, Executive Director, BC Humanist Association said:
"The School Act and Canadian court rulings are explicitly clear: Our governments must be strictly neutral on religion."
Despite this, some Districts keep the practice in place because no one speaks up. We're now looking at whether any other policies remain across the province.
Following similar complaints by the BCHA, the Abbotsford School District confirmed it would end distribution of Gideon Bibles in June. Similar pressure forced the Chilliwack School District to end the practice in 2015.
On October 11, 2016, Acting Superintendent of Schools Mark Wintjes circulated a memo to staff explaining that the district allows Gideons to provide school offices with consent cards that students can exchange for Bibles. Individual schools may either provide the cards through teachers or make them available at the office.
On October 26, Murray Helmer, the CCTA President, wrote to Wintjes stating that he'd "been approached by a number of teachers with concerns" and that he believed allowing the distribution of bibles to be a violation of the BC School Act. He asked for the district to reconsider its policy. Wintjes acknowledged the letter on October 27 and said they "will certainly have a closer look at this long standing practice within our school district."
In 2012, the BCHA reviewed the published policies of every school district in BC and isn't aware of any other districts in BC that permit the distribution of Gideon Bibles. To confirm whether this is the reality in schools, the BCHA has also written to every other public school district and will report its findings in early 2017.
The Cariboo-Chilcotin School District No 27 is located in the Central Interior of British Columbia and includes the communities of 100 Mile House and Williams Lake.
The BC Humanist Association provides a community and a voice for the nearly 70% of British Columbians who are not religious. The BCHA is supported entirely by individual donations. Consider making a donation to help us continue our work.
Documents
Oct 11, 2016 Memo from Mark Wintjes to SD27 Staff
Oct 26, 2016 Letter from Murray Helmer to Mark Wintjes
Oct 27, 2016 Letter from Mark Wintjes to Murray Helmer
Nov 29, 2016 Letter from Ian Bushfield to Mark Wintjes
Monday, December 12, 2016
Another SD27 Vacant Trustee Position
After School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) Zone 7 (Chilcotin) position was declared vacant this past October, due to the former Trustee for Zone 7, Joyce Cooper, missing too many meetings. Zone 3 (District of 100 Mile House) SD27 Trustee Chris Pettman has handed in his resignation, effective December 30th, 2016 and this will be reported to the Board of Education for SD27 at their meeting tomorrow evening
SD27 Staff have recommended the Board of Education for School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) pass the following two motions:
a) THAT the Board of Education advise the Minister of Education of the requirement of the 2017 Zone 3 Trustee By-Election
b) THAT the Board of Education advise the District of 100 Mile House that a by-election is required for Zone 3, School Trustee.
As of this writing, it is not known why Trustee Pettman has chosen to resign however it is reasonable to assume a by-election for his position will be held in the 1st Quarter of 2017 (January - March)
~SF
SD27 Staff have recommended the Board of Education for School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) pass the following two motions:
a) THAT the Board of Education advise the Minister of Education of the requirement of the 2017 Zone 3 Trustee By-Election
b) THAT the Board of Education advise the District of 100 Mile House that a by-election is required for Zone 3, School Trustee.
As of this writing, it is not known why Trustee Pettman has chosen to resign however it is reasonable to assume a by-election for his position will be held in the 1st Quarter of 2017 (January - March)
~SF
Sunday, December 11, 2016
Annual McLeese Lake Xmas Dinner
 |
2016 McLeese Lake Christmas Dinner
at the McLeese Lake Community Hall
|
Earlier this evening, it was my honour to attend the annual McLeese Lake Christmas Dinner at the McLeese Lake Community Hall. At my request, Cariboo-North MLA Coralee Oakes and one of her staff members was able to attend this dinner again and thank you Coralee on behalf of the community of McLeese Lake for being able to attend
It was nearly a packed hall of local community members gathering together before Christmas and to be with each other. The great food cooked was by locals as well and I thank them sincerely for a great job!!
After grace was said, everyone sat down to a great home-cooked meal and enjoyed each others' company. Then, Steve Relkov (President of the McLeese Lake Recreation Commission) and myself as the Cariboo Regional District Area 'D' Director said a few words, then Christmas Carols were sung, Santa made an appearance for the children present and the live/silent aunctions took place at the same time
I'm looking forward to next year's (2017) Christmas Dinner at the McLeese Lake Community Hall
~SF
Friday, December 9, 2016
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Dec 12-16
The following local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin are meeting next week as follows:
Quesnel - Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee on Wednesday, Dec 14th at 1:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Review 2017 Capital/Operating Budgets
View the full Agenda here
Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Dec 13th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue). On the Agenda:
* 2017 Meeting Schedule
* 2017 Council Appointments
* Gold Rush Circle Tour Project – Endorsement for 2017
* Sponsor Organization for the Wells Visitor Information Centre
* In-Camera Session as per Sections 90(1) (c), (d), (e), and (k) [labour, security, land and negotiations] of the Community Charter
View the full Agenda here
School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Meeting of the Board of Education on Wednesday, Dec 14th at 7pm in the SD28 Boardroom. When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Regular Meeting of the Board of Education on Tuesday, Dec 13 at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Delegation - Exploration Extravaganza, Nesika Elementary
* Consent Calendar
* Trustee Vacancy (Zone 3 - District of 100 Mile House)
* Financial Items - Budget; Canadian School Board Association Congress in Whistler, BC on July 5-8, 2017
* BCSTA AGM Motions
* Trustee Committee Appointments
View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, Dec 13th at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
* Delegation: Jeff Pelley, Inspector/Detachment Commander & Dave Dickson, Manager of Community Safety re: Police Commission Report
* Amendments to Traffic Control Bylaw No. 2093 and Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2196
* Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association - 2017 AGM and Tourism Summit
* Information Technology Function
* Pilot Project to Create a Landscape-Level Shaded Fuel Break for Williams Lake
View the full Agenda here
100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Dec 13th at 7pm in 100 Mile Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Cariboo Regional District - Meetings as noted below
North Cariboo Rural Caucus - 3pm on Tuesday, Dec 13th in the CRD Quesnel Office (101-410 Kinchant St, Quesnel). On the Agenda:
* Delegations (2) - Amy Thacker, CCCTA re: Hotel Tax Initiative; Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson/Amy Reid, Quesnel EDO re: Quesnel Branding Exercise
* Passenger Transportation Board Municipal Notice-Tax Application (Deb's Taxi)
* B. Bachmeier - Sponsorship - 25th Annual Gold Rush Trail Sled Dog Mail Run
* Discussion Items -- North Cariboo Trails Inventory; North Cariboo Sub-Regional Airport Function Feasibility Study; Terms of Reference for the North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus
View the full Agenda here
North Cariboo Joint Committee - 5:30pm on Tuesday, Dec 13th in Quesnel Council Chambers. On the Agenda:
* MKT Status Report (Quesnel Arena Project)
* Arena Replacement Project Fundraising and Communications Update
* Gymnastics Centre Update
* Northern Medical Trust Update - 2017 Healthcare Traveling Roadshow
* City of Quesnel Budget & Initiatives
* Funding Requests to CRD Northern Directors'
* CCBAC / Cariboo Strong Update
* Community Works Funding
View the full Agenda here
First Nations Relations Committee - 10am on Thursday, Dec 15th in the CRD Williams Lake Committee Room (180D North 3rd Avenue). On the Agenda:
* Status of Recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Report
View the full Agenda here
Committee of the Whole - 12:30pm on Thursday, Dec 15th in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Corporate Priorities Reports
* Secondary Suite and Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations
* Request from Director Forseth for Review of FCM Convention Expense Allocation & Discuss Mount Timothy Ski Society Funding
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District - 9:30am on Friday, Dec 16th in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:
* Delegation: Susan Paulsen re: Recruitment and Retention activities in Quesnel
* Hospital Consent Calendar
* BC Government News - Province Approves Capital Funding for New Housing Projects in Quesnel
* Northern Health - NH Connections Schedule Changes During Holiday Season
* Interior Health - Year in Review
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District Board - 9:45am on Friday, Dec 16th in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:
* Delegation: Richard Tremblay, Vice-President and General Manager for Taseko Mines - Water Management Plan for Gibraltar Mine
* Various Planning Items
* 9 NDIT Applications for endorsement
* Provisional 2017 – 2021 Five Year Financial Plan -- For Endorsement/Send out for Public Consultation
* Consent Calendar
* Committee/Commission Recommendations
* CCBAC Board Update from Director J. Sorley
* NCLGA Board Meeting Highlights from Director J. Sorley
* 2018 NCLGA Convention co-hosted by CRD/City of WL - Director J. Sorley
* Sponsorship of the Gold Rush Trail Sled Dog Mail Run - Director J. Massier
* Area D Discretionary Funds ($200) - Awards Night in late Jan 2017 - Director S. Forseth
* $2,800 in Electoral Area C Discretionary Funds for the replacement of two pit toilets at the Barlow Creek Recreation site - Director J. Massier
* In-Camera Session as per Section 90(1b, c, j - Award, Labour and Information Prohibited from Public Disclosure) of the Community Charter
View the full Agenda here
Quesnel - Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee on Wednesday, Dec 14th at 1:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Review 2017 Capital/Operating Budgets
View the full Agenda here
Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Dec 13th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue). On the Agenda:
* 2017 Meeting Schedule
* 2017 Council Appointments
* Gold Rush Circle Tour Project – Endorsement for 2017
* Sponsor Organization for the Wells Visitor Information Centre
* In-Camera Session as per Sections 90(1) (c), (d), (e), and (k) [labour, security, land and negotiations] of the Community Charter
View the full Agenda here
School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Meeting of the Board of Education on Wednesday, Dec 14th at 7pm in the SD28 Boardroom. When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Regular Meeting of the Board of Education on Tuesday, Dec 13 at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Delegation - Exploration Extravaganza, Nesika Elementary
* Consent Calendar
* Trustee Vacancy (Zone 3 - District of 100 Mile House)
* Financial Items - Budget; Canadian School Board Association Congress in Whistler, BC on July 5-8, 2017
* BCSTA AGM Motions
* Trustee Committee Appointments
View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, Dec 13th at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
* Delegation: Jeff Pelley, Inspector/Detachment Commander & Dave Dickson, Manager of Community Safety re: Police Commission Report
* Amendments to Traffic Control Bylaw No. 2093 and Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw No. 2196
* Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association - 2017 AGM and Tourism Summit
* Information Technology Function
* Pilot Project to Create a Landscape-Level Shaded Fuel Break for Williams Lake
View the full Agenda here
100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Dec 13th at 7pm in 100 Mile Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Cariboo Regional District - Meetings as noted below
North Cariboo Rural Caucus - 3pm on Tuesday, Dec 13th in the CRD Quesnel Office (101-410 Kinchant St, Quesnel). On the Agenda:
* Delegations (2) - Amy Thacker, CCCTA re: Hotel Tax Initiative; Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson/Amy Reid, Quesnel EDO re: Quesnel Branding Exercise
* Passenger Transportation Board Municipal Notice-Tax Application (Deb's Taxi)
* B. Bachmeier - Sponsorship - 25th Annual Gold Rush Trail Sled Dog Mail Run
* Discussion Items -- North Cariboo Trails Inventory; North Cariboo Sub-Regional Airport Function Feasibility Study; Terms of Reference for the North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus
View the full Agenda here
North Cariboo Joint Committee - 5:30pm on Tuesday, Dec 13th in Quesnel Council Chambers. On the Agenda:
* MKT Status Report (Quesnel Arena Project)
* Arena Replacement Project Fundraising and Communications Update
* Gymnastics Centre Update
* Northern Medical Trust Update - 2017 Healthcare Traveling Roadshow
* City of Quesnel Budget & Initiatives
* Funding Requests to CRD Northern Directors'
* CCBAC / Cariboo Strong Update
* Community Works Funding
View the full Agenda here
First Nations Relations Committee - 10am on Thursday, Dec 15th in the CRD Williams Lake Committee Room (180D North 3rd Avenue). On the Agenda:
* Status of Recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Report
View the full Agenda here
Committee of the Whole - 12:30pm on Thursday, Dec 15th in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Corporate Priorities Reports
* Secondary Suite and Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations
* Request from Director Forseth for Review of FCM Convention Expense Allocation & Discuss Mount Timothy Ski Society Funding
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District - 9:30am on Friday, Dec 16th in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:
* Delegation: Susan Paulsen re: Recruitment and Retention activities in Quesnel
* Hospital Consent Calendar
* BC Government News - Province Approves Capital Funding for New Housing Projects in Quesnel
* Northern Health - NH Connections Schedule Changes During Holiday Season
* Interior Health - Year in Review
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District Board - 9:45am on Friday, Dec 16th in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:
* Delegation: Richard Tremblay, Vice-President and General Manager for Taseko Mines - Water Management Plan for Gibraltar Mine
* Various Planning Items
* 9 NDIT Applications for endorsement
* Provisional 2017 – 2021 Five Year Financial Plan -- For Endorsement/Send out for Public Consultation
* Consent Calendar
* Committee/Commission Recommendations
* CCBAC Board Update from Director J. Sorley
* NCLGA Board Meeting Highlights from Director J. Sorley
* 2018 NCLGA Convention co-hosted by CRD/City of WL - Director J. Sorley
* Sponsorship of the Gold Rush Trail Sled Dog Mail Run - Director J. Massier
* Area D Discretionary Funds ($200) - Awards Night in late Jan 2017 - Director S. Forseth
* $2,800 in Electoral Area C Discretionary Funds for the replacement of two pit toilets at the Barlow Creek Recreation site - Director J. Massier
* In-Camera Session as per Section 90(1b, c, j - Award, Labour and Information Prohibited from Public Disclosure) of the Community Charter
View the full Agenda here
Thursday, December 8, 2016
The Successful CAO
As someone who is in local government and prior to being elected, took a great interest in local governments (municipal council/regional district board), both locally and throughout BC...
Former District of Lake Country Councillor Jamie McEwan has written a very thoughtful blog post on what makes a very successful CAO or Chief Administrative Officer
To my elected official blog readers - it would be a good read for yourselves....
Click here
~SF
Former District of Lake Country Councillor Jamie McEwan has written a very thoughtful blog post on what makes a very successful CAO or Chief Administrative Officer
To my elected official blog readers - it would be a good read for yourselves....
Click here
~SF
Wednesday, December 7, 2016
Quesnel Council Highlights - Dec 6th mtg
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
Council Mid-Term Reports
Council Mid-Term Reports
Each member of Council provided a Mid-Term Report as Council is now half way through their 2015 – 2018 term. Councillors updated the public on their campaign promises, what Council has achieved and what Council would like to work on for the remainder of the 2015 - 2018 term. Please visit the City’s website for full details of these reports
#SkiNorthBC Campaign
Council approved staff submitting a partnership grant application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust’s Marketing Initiatives Program that will promote skiing and winter tourism focusing on the BC and Alberta markets.
Transit Service Review Options and Implementation
Council heard available options regarding the BC Transit Review that was completed in September 2016. Council decided to reallocate low ridership routes to areas with higher ridership. The transit changes are:
· Eliminate Route 4 (Express Bus to South Quesnel) effective September 1, 2017.
· Reduce frequency for Route 2 (Westland and Phillips loops) effective September 1, 2017.
· Combine, the downtown portions only, of Route 1 (West Quesnel) and Route 3 (North Fraser) effective September 1, 2017.
· Bus service will start two hours earlier at 8:30 am for Routes 1 (West Quesnel)/Route 3 (North Fraser) on Saturday morning’s. This will be done on a trial basis before being fully implemented.
· Bus service will run longer on weekdays to 9:00 pm for Routes 1 (West Quesnel) and Route 2 (Red Bluff). This will be done on a trial basis before being fully implemented.
· Staff to work with owner of the River Walk Trailer Park to implement a short-loop through the trailer park as part of Route 3 (North Fraser), effective January 2017, as well as to install a bus stop and shelter.
· Relocate/install a bench and/or shelter to a better suited location from where the current bus stop is located on Doherty/Anderson Drive.
· Relocate the bus stop 1 block west from where the current bus stop is located on Johnston Avenue.
BikeBC Grant
Council gave the go ahead for staff to submit a BikeBC Grant that, if approved, would see the advancement of the Gray Avenue Trail Connection project that includes a re-grading of the portion of trail located in the area of Dunrovin Park Lodge. The City’s Active Transportation Plan identified this proposed trail site as high priority because this project will remove both bicycle and walking traffic off of Gray Avenue. This particular section of the City’s trail network is an important link between the City’s downtown, recreation facilities and links to the trail network.
Destination BC Co-Operative Marking Partnership Grant
Council approved staff to proceed with submitting a grant application to the Destination BC Co-Operative Marking Partnership Program. This grant, if successful, would promote festivals throughout the Cariboo and encourage increased and extended stays for visitors to the region. The “Celebrate the Cariboo” campaign will focus on the short-haul travellers from Alberta and Washington to promote visiting multi festivals that would encourage week-long visits to the Cariboo region.
Gymnastics Facility and Soccer Complex Improvements Design
Council reviewed options for the advancement of the proposed gymnastics facility to be located on the soccer complex grounds. Council had previously allocated funds from the gymnastics reserve to advance the design of the proposed facility to the completion of the construction documents phase. Council chose to increase this budget to include an expanded scope that will fully integrate the new gymnastics building and the soccer complex with a common lobby and entrance, provide community space for an indoor playground, and provide options for improvements to the soccer complex including an expansion of the building to provide a regulation sized soccer pitch, improved change rooms, and additional storage space. The City is funding the design work for the facility from a reserve set aside for the project based on the expectation that the project will become part of the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Service. The North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee had previously passed a resolution supporting in principle the inclusion of a new gymnastics centre as part of the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Service. On December 13, 2016, the Committee will meet to review the proposed change in the scope of work. The advancement of the design work makes this project shovel-ready for any upcoming grant opportunities. It is intended that the facility construction, should the project proceed, will be funded primarily through grants.
City’s New Brand - Pre-Launch Preparation
Council approved staff moving forward with preparation and procurement of stationery, signage, communications and marketing materials prior to official endorsement of the new Quesnel brand expected in January. A full report on the City’s new brand will be brought to the January 17, 2017 Regular Council Meeting.
Next Meetings
· December 13th at 5:30 pm – North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee
· January 17th at 7 pm - Regular Council
CRD names Canada 150 Community Leader
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
Today the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) announced its participation in the Canada 150 Community Leaders network. The CRD Board of Directors is pleased to name Chair Al Richmond as the local voice for the CRD for Canada’s 150th anniversary of Confederation.
The network will be comprised of Community Leaders from thousands of local governments across Canada, ensuring the local government voice is front-and-centre during the year-long celebrations.
Recognizing that community building is nation building, this unique national network of Community Leaders will ensure that local governments are showcased as part of the Canada 150 celebrations and beyond.
“I am honoured to represent the Cariboo Regional District as a Canada 150 Community Leader,” stated CRD Chair Al Richmond. “This network of community leaders will amplify the celebrations across the country and highlight all levels of government throughout our nation.”
The Cariboo Regional District currently provides more than 100 local government services to taxpayers including fire protection, land-use planning, waste and recycling services, and invasive plant management as well as libraries and recreation facilities.
The CRD consists of 12 electoral areas and four incorporated member municipalities, including Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile House, and Wells. The region straddles Highway 97 from 70 Mile in the south to five kilometres south of Hixon in the north and from the Cariboo Mountains in the east to the Coastal Mountains in the west.
Learn more about the CRD online at cariboord.ca, Facebook at facebook.com/CaribooRegion or Twitter at @CaribooRD.
For more information on the Canada 150 Community Leaders network, please visit the FCM website. Follow this network of local leaders on Twitter using #Muni150 and on Facebook.
Today the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) announced its participation in the Canada 150 Community Leaders network. The CRD Board of Directors is pleased to name Chair Al Richmond as the local voice for the CRD for Canada’s 150th anniversary of Confederation.
The network will be comprised of Community Leaders from thousands of local governments across Canada, ensuring the local government voice is front-and-centre during the year-long celebrations.
Recognizing that community building is nation building, this unique national network of Community Leaders will ensure that local governments are showcased as part of the Canada 150 celebrations and beyond.
“I am honoured to represent the Cariboo Regional District as a Canada 150 Community Leader,” stated CRD Chair Al Richmond. “This network of community leaders will amplify the celebrations across the country and highlight all levels of government throughout our nation.”
The Cariboo Regional District currently provides more than 100 local government services to taxpayers including fire protection, land-use planning, waste and recycling services, and invasive plant management as well as libraries and recreation facilities.
The CRD consists of 12 electoral areas and four incorporated member municipalities, including Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile House, and Wells. The region straddles Highway 97 from 70 Mile in the south to five kilometres south of Hixon in the north and from the Cariboo Mountains in the east to the Coastal Mountains in the west.
Learn more about the CRD online at cariboord.ca, Facebook at facebook.com/CaribooRegion or Twitter at @CaribooRD.
For more information on the Canada 150 Community Leaders network, please visit the FCM website. Follow this network of local leaders on Twitter using #Muni150 and on Facebook.
Tuesday, December 6, 2016
WL Council Highlights - Dec 6th mtg
Present: Acting Mayor S. Zacharias; Councillors I. Bonnell, S. Nelson, J. Ryll, C. Smith, and L. Walters
1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque listing for the period of November 24, 29 and December 1, 2016
2) Council approved its' meeting schedule for 2017, its' Acting Mayor Schedule for 2017, received the appointment of Councillors to various internal/external Committee positions for 2017, approved Mayor Cobb as the Cariboo Regional District Director for Williams Lake for 2017 with Councillor Ivan Bonnell as Alternate, approved Mayor Cobb as Williams Lake Director to the Cariboo-Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition Board of Directors with Councillor Sue Zacharias as Alternate, approved Mayor Cobb as Williams Lake's rep to the local NDIT Regional Advisory Committee with Councillor Craig Smith as Alternate
3) Council proclaimed Monday, January 2nd, 2017 as "Wrestling Day" in the City of Williams Lake
4) Council awarded the contract for the supply of unleaded gasoline and diesel to Chevron Canada Ltd. for the tendered price of $0.9276 per litre of Unleaded at $0.9803 per litre of Diesel.
5) Council referred the development of an education/communication program regarding the urban deer population in the City to the 2017 Budget Process
6) Council received and approved the proposed revisions to Snow & Ice Control Policy No. 97 as contained in the updated Snow/Ice Control Policy.
7) Council agreed to support the requested amendments to the Cemetery Bylaw and Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, and "City of Williams Lake Cemetery Bylaw No. 2252" and "City of Williams Lake Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 2253" were accordingly given 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings
8) Upon recommendation from the Community Services Committee -- Council agreed to support the requested increase in funding from the Museum of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Society in principal, and the letter be referred to the next Central Cariboo / City of Williams Lake Joint Committee meeting (January 23rd, 2017) for consideration as part of the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function's Budget.
9) Council adopted 4 recommendations from the Nov 29th Committee of the Whole Session, as follows:
a) Council support in principle using Comer Park as the location for the proposed new Soccer-Multi Sport Complex; and further, Staff report back with lease options at a nominal rate with the Williams Lake Youth Soccer Association.
b) Council support in principle allocation of the parkland between Kiwanis Park and new Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex parking lot for the purpose of constructing a new skateboard park designed towards attracting a clientele consistent with the users of Kiwanis Park.
c) Council direct staff to schedule a public meeting to be held in conjunction with City Approving Officer to consider proposal for a right of way agreement at entrance to 351 and 375 Mandarino and all property owners with title affected by Easement Plan 43545 are invited to attend the public meeting and Council invite the proponent Westridge Ventures to arrange for Pushor Mitchell to participate in the public meeting in order to provide clarification on strata corporation details; and further Council request the proponent Westridge Ventures to provide for the public meeting details on the process and costs of expropriation, as well as rights and obligation for maintenance within the proposed right of way.
d) Council authorize staff to retain O-Netrix Solutions to order, install and configure a phone system for City Hall, the City Works Yard and the Cariboo Memorial Complex as detailed in the attached quotes from the report of the CAO, at a cost not to exceed $50,000 before taxes, to be funded from 2016 surplus.
10) Council received and referred to BC Ministry of Environment letters from Sage Birchwater, Barbara Flach, Kelly Price, Stephanie Bird, Jean Turner, Jenny Noble and Sandra Hawkins dated November 29, December 2, 4 and 5, 2016, respectively, requesting Council to rescind their letter of endorsement of Permit 8808, which allows Atlantic Power Corporation to burn up to 50% rail ties in its biomass-fueled energy plant in Williams Lake
11) Late Item -- Council approved an application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) for a grant in the amount of $30,000 to host an intern under the Local Government Management Internship Program in 2017/2018
12) Council received the 'Council Information Package' as of December 6th, 2016 as follows:
• November 25, 2016 - Cariboo Regional District's Board Highlights
Members of Council reported out on their recent activities
Meeting adjourned at 7:12pm
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Meeting Agenda adopted/Minutes of the Nov 22nd WL Council Meeting adopted
Delegation:
1) Business Walks 2016
Susan Fournier, the City of Williams Lake Economic Development Officer, appeared before Council to discuss the 2016 Business Walks Program
A Question/Answer period ensued
Acting Mayor Sue Zacharias, on behalf of Council, thanked Ms. Fournier for her time/information
Resolved - That the "Business Walks Report - Williams Lake 2016" by the Economic Development Officer dated December 6, 2016 be received for information
Resolved - That the "Business Walks Report - Williams Lake 2016" by the Economic Development Officer dated December 6, 2016 be received for information
Business:
1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque listing for the period of November 24, 29 and December 1, 2016
2) Council approved its' meeting schedule for 2017, its' Acting Mayor Schedule for 2017, received the appointment of Councillors to various internal/external Committee positions for 2017, approved Mayor Cobb as the Cariboo Regional District Director for Williams Lake for 2017 with Councillor Ivan Bonnell as Alternate, approved Mayor Cobb as Williams Lake Director to the Cariboo-Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition Board of Directors with Councillor Sue Zacharias as Alternate, approved Mayor Cobb as Williams Lake's rep to the local NDIT Regional Advisory Committee with Councillor Craig Smith as Alternate
3) Council proclaimed Monday, January 2nd, 2017 as "Wrestling Day" in the City of Williams Lake
4) Council awarded the contract for the supply of unleaded gasoline and diesel to Chevron Canada Ltd. for the tendered price of $0.9276 per litre of Unleaded at $0.9803 per litre of Diesel.
5) Council referred the development of an education/communication program regarding the urban deer population in the City to the 2017 Budget Process
6) Council received and approved the proposed revisions to Snow & Ice Control Policy No. 97 as contained in the updated Snow/Ice Control Policy.
7) Council agreed to support the requested amendments to the Cemetery Bylaw and Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw, and "City of Williams Lake Cemetery Bylaw No. 2252" and "City of Williams Lake Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 2253" were accordingly given 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings
8) Upon recommendation from the Community Services Committee -- Council agreed to support the requested increase in funding from the Museum of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Society in principal, and the letter be referred to the next Central Cariboo / City of Williams Lake Joint Committee meeting (January 23rd, 2017) for consideration as part of the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Function's Budget.
9) Council adopted 4 recommendations from the Nov 29th Committee of the Whole Session, as follows:
a) Council support in principle using Comer Park as the location for the proposed new Soccer-Multi Sport Complex; and further, Staff report back with lease options at a nominal rate with the Williams Lake Youth Soccer Association.
b) Council support in principle allocation of the parkland between Kiwanis Park and new Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex parking lot for the purpose of constructing a new skateboard park designed towards attracting a clientele consistent with the users of Kiwanis Park.
c) Council direct staff to schedule a public meeting to be held in conjunction with City Approving Officer to consider proposal for a right of way agreement at entrance to 351 and 375 Mandarino and all property owners with title affected by Easement Plan 43545 are invited to attend the public meeting and Council invite the proponent Westridge Ventures to arrange for Pushor Mitchell to participate in the public meeting in order to provide clarification on strata corporation details; and further Council request the proponent Westridge Ventures to provide for the public meeting details on the process and costs of expropriation, as well as rights and obligation for maintenance within the proposed right of way.
d) Council authorize staff to retain O-Netrix Solutions to order, install and configure a phone system for City Hall, the City Works Yard and the Cariboo Memorial Complex as detailed in the attached quotes from the report of the CAO, at a cost not to exceed $50,000 before taxes, to be funded from 2016 surplus.
10) Council received and referred to BC Ministry of Environment letters from Sage Birchwater, Barbara Flach, Kelly Price, Stephanie Bird, Jean Turner, Jenny Noble and Sandra Hawkins dated November 29, December 2, 4 and 5, 2016, respectively, requesting Council to rescind their letter of endorsement of Permit 8808, which allows Atlantic Power Corporation to burn up to 50% rail ties in its biomass-fueled energy plant in Williams Lake
11) Late Item -- Council approved an application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) for a grant in the amount of $30,000 to host an intern under the Local Government Management Internship Program in 2017/2018
12) Council received the 'Council Information Package' as of December 6th, 2016 as follows:
• November 25, 2016 - Cariboo Regional District's Board Highlights
Members of Council reported out on their recent activities
Meeting adjourned at 7:12pm
27th Anniversary of Ecole Polytechnique
Let us remember their deaths and work towards that ideal of ridding ourselves of #ViolenceAgainstWomen, in all of its' forms. More information on this day and topic can be viewed here/here
Monday, December 5, 2016
Steve's Meeting/Expense Calendar - November 2016
In the month of November 2016 - I attended the following meetings:
* Nov 3rd - CRD First Nations Relations Committee Meeting/Committee of the Whole Meeting
* Nov 4th - CCRHD/CRD Board Meetings
* Nov 7th - Met with members of the WL Cross Country Ski Club in regards to Bull Mountain
* Nov 11th - Presented wreaths on behalf of the Cariboo Regional District & Cariboo-North MLA Coralee Oakes at the Williams Lake Remembrance Day ceremony
* Nov 16th - Chair a Sub-regional Public Hearing on CRD Central Cariboo Zoning Bylaws pertaining to Ancillary Spaces with CRD Directors B. Kemp, J. Sorley and B. Anderson in attendance
* Nov 17th - Attended an early morning meeting hosted by the Williams Lake Chamber of Commerce with Stewart Muir from Resource Works in attendance then partially attended the Nation2Nation Forum at the Pioneer Complex in Williams Lake
* Nov 18th - Took my Area Alternate Director, Phyllis Webstad, out for a "Thank You" Lunch for serving as my Alternate for Electoral Area D in 2016
* Nov 19th - Attended the Wildwood VFD Firefighter Appreciation Dinner. The theme of this dinner was "Western"
* Nov 22nd - Attended the Communities that Care "Key Leaders" Meeting on behalf of CRD Area 'F' Director Joan Sorley as her Alternate to this group
* Nov 23rd - Central Cariboo Rural Caucus Meeting
* Nov 24th - CRD Infrastructure/Cell & Finance/Budget Committee Meetings
* Nov 25th - CCRHD/CRD Board Meetings
* Nov 30th - Attended the 'Dirty Laundry' Anti-Racism Campaign Celebration get-together at WL City Hall
As for expenses submitted for the month of November 2016:
* Nov 3rd - $185 for CRD First Nations Relations Committee Meeting/Committee of the Whole Meeting
* Nov 4th - $185 for CCRHD/CRD Board Meetings
* Nov 16th - $75 for the Public Hearing, as outlined above
* Nov 23rd - $75 for the CC Rural Caucus Meeting
* Nov 24th - $185 for CRD Infrastructure/Cell & Finance/Budget Committee Meetings
* Nov 3rd - CRD First Nations Relations Committee Meeting/Committee of the Whole Meeting
* Nov 4th - CCRHD/CRD Board Meetings
* Nov 7th - Met with members of the WL Cross Country Ski Club in regards to Bull Mountain
* Nov 11th - Presented wreaths on behalf of the Cariboo Regional District & Cariboo-North MLA Coralee Oakes at the Williams Lake Remembrance Day ceremony
* Nov 16th - Chair a Sub-regional Public Hearing on CRD Central Cariboo Zoning Bylaws pertaining to Ancillary Spaces with CRD Directors B. Kemp, J. Sorley and B. Anderson in attendance
* Nov 17th - Attended an early morning meeting hosted by the Williams Lake Chamber of Commerce with Stewart Muir from Resource Works in attendance then partially attended the Nation2Nation Forum at the Pioneer Complex in Williams Lake
* Nov 18th - Took my Area Alternate Director, Phyllis Webstad, out for a "Thank You" Lunch for serving as my Alternate for Electoral Area D in 2016
* Nov 19th - Attended the Wildwood VFD Firefighter Appreciation Dinner. The theme of this dinner was "Western"
* Nov 22nd - Attended the Communities that Care "Key Leaders" Meeting on behalf of CRD Area 'F' Director Joan Sorley as her Alternate to this group
* Nov 23rd - Central Cariboo Rural Caucus Meeting
* Nov 24th - CRD Infrastructure/Cell & Finance/Budget Committee Meetings
* Nov 25th - CCRHD/CRD Board Meetings
* Nov 30th - Attended the 'Dirty Laundry' Anti-Racism Campaign Celebration get-together at WL City Hall
As for expenses submitted for the month of November 2016:
* Nov 3rd - $185 for CRD First Nations Relations Committee Meeting/Committee of the Whole Meeting
* Nov 4th - $185 for CCRHD/CRD Board Meetings
* Nov 16th - $75 for the Public Hearing, as outlined above
* Nov 23rd - $75 for the CC Rural Caucus Meeting
* Nov 24th - $185 for CRD Infrastructure/Cell & Finance/Budget Committee Meetings
Friday, December 2, 2016
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Dec 4-8
The following local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin are meeting next week:
Quesnel - Meetings as noted below
1) Policy/Bylaw Review Committee - Meeting at 1:00pm on Monday, December 5th in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Dog Park in Quesnel
* Request from CUPE - Commemorative Bench/Tree for Deceased City Employees
View the full Agenda here
2) Executive Committee - Meeting at 9:00am on Tuesday, December 6th in Quesnel Council Chambers. On the Agenda:
* Business Plans Follow-up
* North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee Governance Structure Discussion
* Letter from Cariboo Keepsakes
* Letter from Cariboo RD Area 'B' Director Jerry Bruce re: North Cariboo Airport Feasibility
View the full Agenda here
3) Public Hearing - Meeting at 7:00pm on Tuesday, December 6th in Quesnel Council Chambers. Hearing to get views of the public on Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1815 (1279 Sword Avenue). View the full Agenda here
4) Regular Council Meeting - Meeting to start upon adjournment of the Public Hearing for Zoning Amendment Bylaw #1815 in Quesnel Council Chambers. On the Agenda:
* Committee Reports
* Annual Reports from Quesnel Mayor/Council
* Council Appointments for 2017
* NDIT Joint Partnership Application for #SkiNorthBC Campaign
* Transit Service Review Options and Implementation
* BikeBC Grant Application
* Destination BC Grant Application
* Proposed Gymnastics Facility
* City of Quesnel Brand Launch Preparation
* Liability Insurance for Recreation Department Instructors
* Letter from SD28 re: Biomass Boiler Heating System for Correlieu Secondary School
* Letter from Hon. Steve Thomson - UBCM 2016 Meeting with Quesnel Council
View the full Agenda here
Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, December 6th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, December 6th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
* Delegation: Business Walks 2016
* Annual Council Schedule, Acting Mayor Rotation and Annual Appointments for 2017
* Unleaded Gasoline & Diesel Fuel - Award of Contract
* Williams Lake Urban Deer Management
* Updates to Snow & Ice Policy No. 97
* Cemetery Bylaw & Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw Amendments
* Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin - Request for Fee for Service Increase
* Adopt 4 Recommendations from Committee of the Whole Meeting of November 29th
* Letter from Sage Birchwater asking Council to rescind Letter of Support for Atlantic Power's application to burn up to 50% of rail ties in its' fuel mix
View the full Agenda here
Upcoming Community Events:
* Saturday, December 3rd/4th - Winter Lights Events - More details here
* Saturday, December 3rd - Christmas Tea/Bake Sale - Museum of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Fundraising Event
Quesnel - Meetings as noted below
1) Policy/Bylaw Review Committee - Meeting at 1:00pm on Monday, December 5th in Quesnel Council Chambers (2nd Floor - 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Dog Park in Quesnel
* Request from CUPE - Commemorative Bench/Tree for Deceased City Employees
View the full Agenda here
2) Executive Committee - Meeting at 9:00am on Tuesday, December 6th in Quesnel Council Chambers. On the Agenda:
* Business Plans Follow-up
* North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee Governance Structure Discussion
* Letter from Cariboo Keepsakes
* Letter from Cariboo RD Area 'B' Director Jerry Bruce re: North Cariboo Airport Feasibility
View the full Agenda here
3) Public Hearing - Meeting at 7:00pm on Tuesday, December 6th in Quesnel Council Chambers. Hearing to get views of the public on Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1815 (1279 Sword Avenue). View the full Agenda here
4) Regular Council Meeting - Meeting to start upon adjournment of the Public Hearing for Zoning Amendment Bylaw #1815 in Quesnel Council Chambers. On the Agenda:
* Committee Reports
* Annual Reports from Quesnel Mayor/Council
* Council Appointments for 2017
* NDIT Joint Partnership Application for #SkiNorthBC Campaign
* Transit Service Review Options and Implementation
* BikeBC Grant Application
* Destination BC Grant Application
* Proposed Gymnastics Facility
* City of Quesnel Brand Launch Preparation
* Liability Insurance for Recreation Department Instructors
* Letter from SD28 re: Biomass Boiler Heating System for Correlieu Secondary School
* Letter from Hon. Steve Thomson - UBCM 2016 Meeting with Quesnel Council
View the full Agenda here
Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, December 6th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, December 6th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
* Delegation: Business Walks 2016
* Annual Council Schedule, Acting Mayor Rotation and Annual Appointments for 2017
* Unleaded Gasoline & Diesel Fuel - Award of Contract
* Williams Lake Urban Deer Management
* Updates to Snow & Ice Policy No. 97
* Cemetery Bylaw & Bylaw Notice Enforcement Bylaw Amendments
* Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin - Request for Fee for Service Increase
* Adopt 4 Recommendations from Committee of the Whole Meeting of November 29th
* Letter from Sage Birchwater asking Council to rescind Letter of Support for Atlantic Power's application to burn up to 50% of rail ties in its' fuel mix
View the full Agenda here
Upcoming Community Events:
* Saturday, December 3rd/4th - Winter Lights Events - More details here
* Saturday, December 3rd - Christmas Tea/Bake Sale - Museum of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Fundraising Event
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