Next week, the following local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be meeting:
Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, December 4th at 7:00pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue). On the Agenda:
* In-Camera Session from 5:30pm - 7pm -- Sec. 90(1a,c,d - appointment, labour and security of property of the municipality) of the Community Charter
* Presentation: District of Wells local paramedicine, Eileen Darling
* Update from District of Wells Staff regarding the School District 28's request for Art Work.
* Primary Liquor License application support for the Sunset Theatre
* Wells-Barkerville Community Forest Board (WBCFB) appointments
* Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) Representative appointment.
* Business Retention, Recruitment and Expansion (BRRE) RFP - staff report
* District of Wells Community Town Hall 2018 report
View the full Agenda here
Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, December 4th at 6:00pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Presentation -- Cariboo-North MLA Coralee Oakes re: Congratulations/Welcome to New Council
* Delegation -- West Quesnel Business Improvement Association - Budget Request - President Bob Michek and Executive Director Laurey-Anne Roodenburg
* Committee Reports
* Forestry related grant applications
* Housing Needs Assessment
* West Quesnel Business Association Renewal
* Crime Reduction and Crime Prevention Grant Application
* Reid Street Breezeway
* New Public Works Facility Capital Project
View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, December 4th at 6:00pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
* 3 NDIT Grant Applications
* 2019 Community Resiliency Investment (CRI) Grant Application - FireSmart Community
* Application for Mayor Cobb to attend 2019 BC Natural Resources Forum in Prince George - Jan 22-24, 2019
* Wrestling Day Proclamation - January 2, 2019
* Development Variance Permit Application - Height Variance for Proposed Garage - 1277 South Lakeside Drive - Approval
* Fire Protection Agreement (City of WL/CRD Areas D,E,F)
* Heritage Park Lease
* 6 Recommendation from the Nov 27th Committee of the Whole Session - for ratification
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District - Meetings as noted below, all in the Cariboo RD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake):
Finance/Budget Meeting - Regular Meeting on Thursday, December 6th at 10am. On the Agenda:
* Review of 2019 Business Plans -- all CRD Services
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, December 7th at 9:30am. On the Agenda:
* Delegation at 11am -- Dr. Glenn Fedor, Dr. Paul Magnuson, Peter DuToit, Health Services Administrator, and Gina Sloan, Corporate Director Medical Affairs - to provide a presentation on "Medical Staff Resource Planning - Update for Williams Lake"
* Consent Calendar
* IHA Capital Projects and Planning Status Report - October 2018
* Cariboo Foundation Hospital Trust Request for Funding to Assist in Purchase of Hematology Analyzer
* Interior Health - Cariboo Memorial Hospital Business Plan Development
* Verbal Update from Chair Simpson - GR Baker Project
View the full Agenda here
Regional Board - Regular Meeting on Friday, December 7th at 9:45am or upon adjournment of the CCRHD Board. On the Agenda:
* Delegation at 11:30am -- Samantha Charlton, BC Agriculture & Food Climate Action Initiative
* Various Planning Matters including dealing with the topic of Cannabis Sales and Production in the Cariboo Regional District Electoral Areas
* 2 Telus Cell Tower applications in Electoral Area 'A' (Dir. Sjostrom)
* Forest Grove Community Hall Community Works Funding (CWF) Energy Efficient Building Envelope Project and Enabling Agreement
* NDIT Application - Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club Storage Facility at Bull Mountain (Area D)
* Telus Wireless Installation – Forest Grove Volunteer Fire Department
* 2019 Community Resiliency Investment Program – FireSmart Community Funding and Supports Application
* 2018 Wildfire Report
* Committee or Commission Minutes for receipt and recommendations for endorsement
* 3 Bylaws for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings -- Cariboo Regional District Kersley Fire Protection Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 5186, 2018; Cariboo Regional District Lone Butte Fire Protection Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 5187, 2018 and Cariboo Regional District Forest Grove Fire Protection Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 5188, 2018
* Cariboo Regional District Directors’ Remuneration and Expenses Bylaw No. 5185, 2018 -- For 1st, 2nd, 3rd Reading/Adoption
* Requests from Directors S. Forseth (Area D), A. Delainey (Area E), J. Sorley (Area F) J. Glassford (Area I) and G. Kirby (Area J) pertaining to attending the 2019 BC Natural Resources Forum (Dirs Forseth/Kirby), establish a new streetlight service on Willoughby Place, off of Dog Creek Road (Dir Delainey), Letter of Support for the Central Cariboo Branch of the BC Honey Producers’ Association’s Grant Application to Ministry of Agriculture Bee BC Program; BC Ambulance Access to West Fraser Road (Dir Glassford)
* In-Camera Session as per Sec 90(1a - appointment) of the Community Charter
View the full Agenda here
Friday, November 30, 2018
Change to SD27 Superintendent
Courtesy of the Board of Education -- School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin):
Effective Friday, November 30, 2018, Superintendent of Schools Mark Wintjes has left his role as a senior district leader. Mr. Wintjes has expressed a desire to return to teaching and will commence that work on January 28, 2019 at the beginning of second semester. The Board wishes Mr. Wintjes the very best in his return to teaching and thanks him for his time and effort as superintendent.
The Board has appointed Diane Wright as Interim Superintendent, commencing December 3, 2018. The recruitment process for a long-term district leader will start immediately. The Board welcomes Diane Wright back to the district and thanks her for her willingness to provide leadership during this transition period.
Effective Friday, November 30, 2018, Superintendent of Schools Mark Wintjes has left his role as a senior district leader. Mr. Wintjes has expressed a desire to return to teaching and will commence that work on January 28, 2019 at the beginning of second semester. The Board wishes Mr. Wintjes the very best in his return to teaching and thanks him for his time and effort as superintendent.
The Board has appointed Diane Wright as Interim Superintendent, commencing December 3, 2018. The recruitment process for a long-term district leader will start immediately. The Board welcomes Diane Wright back to the district and thanks her for her willingness to provide leadership during this transition period.
Thursday, November 29, 2018
Improved connectivity coming to Clinton, Deka Lake and Wells
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
People in Clinton, Deka Lake and Wells will soon enjoy the economic, social and safety benefits of high-speed internet as a result of new or upgraded broadband infrastructure.
“High-speed internet access is critical for people to learn, do business and communicate with each other. In today’s connected world, reliable and affordable internet access is no longer a luxury — it’s an absolute necessity,” said Jinny Sims, Minister of Citizens’ Services. “These new projects will help ensure residents of Clinton, Deka Lake and Wells have the same opportunities online as British Columbians in urban centres.”
In July 2018, $16 million was made available through the Connecting British Columbia program. The fund, administered by Northern Development Initiative Trust, offers internet service providers and other local organizations the opportunity to apply for grants to improve high-speed internet access in rural, remote and Indigenous communities.
Applications are being accepted for projects that connect homes and businesses directly, as well as transport infrastructure projects to bring connectivity to entire regions of British Columbia. Successful applicants may receive up to a 50% contribution for project costs and submissions are being reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
The local company, ABC Communications, is receiving Connecting British Columbia grant funding to install or upgrade existing networks and provide homes and businesses with high-speed internet at download speeds reaching 50 Mbps. Residents in these communities will have a connection that is fast enough to load a web page instantly and stream high-definition multimedia content.
Quotes:
Karen Jeffery, executive artistic director, Sunset Theatre Society in Wells —
“The connection between arts and the internet have become a lifeline for rural arts organizations. In the fast-paced world of having information at your fingertips, it’s imperative that we continue to be able to offer that service to visiting artists wanting to create in a rural environment while still being connected to an urban centre.”
Wayne Walch, chief, Clinton Volunteer Fire Department —
“Broadband connectivity is essential to Clinton. As fire chief, I can attest to the need for reliable connectivity during emergency situations. With the wildfire of 2017 approaching our village, the fire commissioner set up a mobile command centre enabled through broadband connections. They had access to satellite information, news coverage and other levels of government organizations, which greatly assisted in the co-ordination of our efforts and the dissemination of critical information.”
Falko Kadenbach, vice-president, ABC Communications —
“Throughout the past two summers, British Columbians have been challenged by natural disasters. ABC Communications, along with many other service providers, provides a lifeline to many residents in rural B.C. during these events. Programs like the Connecting British Columbia program play an important role in making these services available, affordable and reliable to British Columbians.”
Quick Facts:
The Connecting British Columbia program provided the following contributions:
Deka Lake LTE A project: $78,862 to upgrade the network, allowing an estimated 200 homes and businesses in Deka Lake to access high-speed internet. Nearby Sulphurous Lake will also receive improved coverage.
Wells LTE A project: $59,794 to enhance internet services for 130 homes and businesses in a community that depends on the tourism, arts and mining sectors and also sees a yearly influx of seasonal workers.
Clinton fibre-to-the-home project: $334,108 to install a fibre-optic network for 327 homes and businesses in Clinton.
Approximately 650 households and businesses in the three communities will benefit from these projects.
The total value of these three investments is $945,530, which includes the provincial contribution and spending by ABC Communications.
Learn More:
To read personal accounts of the positive effect high-speed internet will have on the three communities, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/CITZ90474.pdf
For more information on internet in British Columbia and the Province’s work to expand connectivity in rural, remote and Indigenous communities, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/about-the-bc-government/internet-in-bc
Northern Development Initiative Trust administers the Connecting British Columbia program: https://www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca/
People in Clinton, Deka Lake and Wells will soon enjoy the economic, social and safety benefits of high-speed internet as a result of new or upgraded broadband infrastructure.
“High-speed internet access is critical for people to learn, do business and communicate with each other. In today’s connected world, reliable and affordable internet access is no longer a luxury — it’s an absolute necessity,” said Jinny Sims, Minister of Citizens’ Services. “These new projects will help ensure residents of Clinton, Deka Lake and Wells have the same opportunities online as British Columbians in urban centres.”
In July 2018, $16 million was made available through the Connecting British Columbia program. The fund, administered by Northern Development Initiative Trust, offers internet service providers and other local organizations the opportunity to apply for grants to improve high-speed internet access in rural, remote and Indigenous communities.
Applications are being accepted for projects that connect homes and businesses directly, as well as transport infrastructure projects to bring connectivity to entire regions of British Columbia. Successful applicants may receive up to a 50% contribution for project costs and submissions are being reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
The local company, ABC Communications, is receiving Connecting British Columbia grant funding to install or upgrade existing networks and provide homes and businesses with high-speed internet at download speeds reaching 50 Mbps. Residents in these communities will have a connection that is fast enough to load a web page instantly and stream high-definition multimedia content.
Quotes:
Karen Jeffery, executive artistic director, Sunset Theatre Society in Wells —
“The connection between arts and the internet have become a lifeline for rural arts organizations. In the fast-paced world of having information at your fingertips, it’s imperative that we continue to be able to offer that service to visiting artists wanting to create in a rural environment while still being connected to an urban centre.”
Wayne Walch, chief, Clinton Volunteer Fire Department —
“Broadband connectivity is essential to Clinton. As fire chief, I can attest to the need for reliable connectivity during emergency situations. With the wildfire of 2017 approaching our village, the fire commissioner set up a mobile command centre enabled through broadband connections. They had access to satellite information, news coverage and other levels of government organizations, which greatly assisted in the co-ordination of our efforts and the dissemination of critical information.”
Falko Kadenbach, vice-president, ABC Communications —
“Throughout the past two summers, British Columbians have been challenged by natural disasters. ABC Communications, along with many other service providers, provides a lifeline to many residents in rural B.C. during these events. Programs like the Connecting British Columbia program play an important role in making these services available, affordable and reliable to British Columbians.”
Quick Facts:
The Connecting British Columbia program provided the following contributions:
Deka Lake LTE A project: $78,862 to upgrade the network, allowing an estimated 200 homes and businesses in Deka Lake to access high-speed internet. Nearby Sulphurous Lake will also receive improved coverage.
Wells LTE A project: $59,794 to enhance internet services for 130 homes and businesses in a community that depends on the tourism, arts and mining sectors and also sees a yearly influx of seasonal workers.
Clinton fibre-to-the-home project: $334,108 to install a fibre-optic network for 327 homes and businesses in Clinton.
Approximately 650 households and businesses in the three communities will benefit from these projects.
The total value of these three investments is $945,530, which includes the provincial contribution and spending by ABC Communications.
Learn More:
To read personal accounts of the positive effect high-speed internet will have on the three communities, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/CITZ90474.pdf
For more information on internet in British Columbia and the Province’s work to expand connectivity in rural, remote and Indigenous communities, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/about-the-bc-government/internet-in-bc
Northern Development Initiative Trust administers the Connecting British Columbia program: https://www.northerndevelopment.bc.ca/
Wednesday, November 28, 2018
Quesnel Council Highlights - Nov 27th mtg
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
University of Northern British Columbia Environmental Planning Class present to Council
Five UNBC planning students and their instructor attended as a delegation to share their insights from a community engagement project they conducted earlier this fall examining the impacts of the Reid Street revitalization initiative. Each student presented Council with their insights and recommendations about how Quesnel can better present itself online, utilize the Fraser and Quesnel Rivers and downtown core as a hub of activity and enterprise, reintegrate the homeless into society, revise bylaws to promote diverse use of our outdoor spaces, use public seating to make Reid Street a gathering and socializing space and, diversify our zoning bylaws to allow a broader range of businesses in the downtown core to expand the activity to all hours of the day. Mayor Simpson thanked the delegation and outlined some of the current City initiatives that align with the ideas presented:
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Comprehensive Fees & Charges Bylaw
Council approved changes outlined in Director Bolton’s report. Proposed changes include increases to sewer, water, landfill, commercial garbage, cemetery and airport fees in addition to other minor changes to various fee schedules.
The revised bylaw can be viewed on the November 27, 2018 Agenda.
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Cannabis Retail
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Downtown Parking
Effective immediately, the parking lot behind the post office will return to 24 hour public parking. Staff are to review signage to confirm that overnight camping is not permitted. The City will reengage the Quesnel Downtown Association in the new year to discuss if there is a need for a designated staff parking area.
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Wayfinding Strategy Implementation
Economic Development Officer Reid’s report was brought forward for information to bring new Council up to date on this initiative. Financial considerations for the sign project will be reviewed at the Financial Sustainability & Audit Committee.
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Municipal Regional District Tax Facilitator
Council allocated $10,000 from the Council Initiatives budget toward contracting a facilitator to assist the City with the Municipal Regional District Tax application.
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Bylaws
1860 – Comprehensive Fees and Charges Bylaw – First, Second and Third Reading
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Next Meetings
6 pm; December 4 – Regular Council Meeting
6 pm; December 18 – Regular Council Meeting
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CC Joint Committee Highlights - November 28th mtg
Present from City of WL -- Councillors S. Boehm, I. Bonnell, M. Brenner, J. Ryll and C. Smith
Present from Cariboo RD -- Director J. Sorley (Committee Co-Chair) and Directors S. Forseth and G. Kirby
Meeting called to order at 5:30pm by Co-Chair J. Sorley and recognized that the meeting was taking place on traditional Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) territory. A roundtable of introductions were done
Meeting Agenda approved and Minutes of the Regular Joint Committee meeting held September 26th, 2018 and the Special Meeting held November 1st, 2018 were both received/adopted
Delegations - None
Business:
1) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society - 2018 Performances in the Park Report
A report from the Society was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
2) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society - 2018 Arts & Culture Society 3rd Quarter Report
A report from the Society was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
3) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society - Fee for Service Management Committee - 2019 Appointments
A report from the Society was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received and that CRD Director S. Forseth /Councillor I. Bonnell and appropriate CRD/City/CCACS Staff be appointed to the Committee
4) Cariboo Strong Grants Program - Central Cariboo Funding Allocation and Approved Projects
A report from the CRD Manager of Community Services (D. Campbell) was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
5) Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club (WLCCSC) Equipment Storage and Rental Facility Project - Cariboo Strong Funding
A report from the CRD Manager of Community Services (D. Campbell) was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received and that up to $25,000 for the project be approved from the Central Cariboo allocation of the Cariboo Strong program for the Williams Lake Cross Country Club Storage Facility project, subject to confirmation of approval from other project funding sources
6) Proposed 2019 Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting Schedule
A report from the CRD's Deputy Corporate Officer/Executive Assistant was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received/2019 Proposed 2019 Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting Schedule be endorsed, as presented
7) Verbal Update re Williams Lake & Area Community Wildfire Protection Plan
A verbal report on the Williams Lake & Area Community Wildfire Protection Plan was presented by the Chair
Discussion ensued thereon
No resolution required
8) Action Page
Action Page was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Action Page received/Items # 4,6 and 7 be removed
The Committee agreed to adjourn at 5:58pm
Present from Cariboo RD -- Director J. Sorley (Committee Co-Chair) and Directors S. Forseth and G. Kirby
Meeting called to order at 5:30pm by Co-Chair J. Sorley and recognized that the meeting was taking place on traditional Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) territory. A roundtable of introductions were done
Meeting Agenda approved and Minutes of the Regular Joint Committee meeting held September 26th, 2018 and the Special Meeting held November 1st, 2018 were both received/adopted
Delegations - None
Business:
1) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society - 2018 Performances in the Park Report
A report from the Society was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
2) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society - 2018 Arts & Culture Society 3rd Quarter Report
A report from the Society was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
3) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society - Fee for Service Management Committee - 2019 Appointments
A report from the Society was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received and that CRD Director S. Forseth /Councillor I. Bonnell and appropriate CRD/City/CCACS Staff be appointed to the Committee
4) Cariboo Strong Grants Program - Central Cariboo Funding Allocation and Approved Projects
A report from the CRD Manager of Community Services (D. Campbell) was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received
5) Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club (WLCCSC) Equipment Storage and Rental Facility Project - Cariboo Strong Funding
A report from the CRD Manager of Community Services (D. Campbell) was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received and that up to $25,000 for the project be approved from the Central Cariboo allocation of the Cariboo Strong program for the Williams Lake Cross Country Club Storage Facility project, subject to confirmation of approval from other project funding sources
6) Proposed 2019 Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting Schedule
A report from the CRD's Deputy Corporate Officer/Executive Assistant was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received/2019 Proposed 2019 Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting Schedule be endorsed, as presented
7) Verbal Update re Williams Lake & Area Community Wildfire Protection Plan
A verbal report on the Williams Lake & Area Community Wildfire Protection Plan was presented by the Chair
Discussion ensued thereon
No resolution required
8) Action Page
Action Page was presented to the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Action Page received/Items # 4,6 and 7 be removed
The Committee agreed to adjourn at 5:58pm
CC Rural Directors' Caucus Highlights - Nov 28th mtg
Present: Chair S. Forseth and Directors A. Delainey, J. Sorley and G. Kirby
The Chair called the meeting to order at 3:00pm. He acknowledged that the meeting was taking place on the traditional territory of the Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) peoples and welcomed Cariboo RD Area 'J' Director Gerald Kirby to his first Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus meeting
Meeting agenda approved and minutes of the June 20th Rural Caucus meeting were received/adopted
Delegation:
Robin Dawes and Lisa Seabourne, from the Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club, appeared before the Caucus to provide an update on the activities of the Club, and to discuss the status of the $9,000 Grant for Assistance funding that the CRD is holding in trust
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair, on behalf of Caucus, thanked the delegation for their time/information
Business:
1) Rural Caucus 101
The Chair led a presentation on the operation of Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus
A Question/Answer period ensued thereon...
No resolution required
2) 2019 Grant for Assistance applications
The Caucus was presented with the 2019 Grant for Assistance applications and recommendations from Staff
Discussion ensued thereon...
Resolved - That it be recommended to the Regional Board that CRD Board Policy be waived, as required, and Grants for Assistance be approved as discussed with the exception of Big Lake Community Association (upgrade well casing) and Williams Lake Curling Club to be referred to Staff for consideration of other funding options, the Grant for Assistance application from Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy be referred to the South Cariboo Joint Committee and the Grant for Assistance application from Social Planning Council of Williams Lake and Area be referred to the January 2019 CC Rural Caucus Meeting for further consideration
3) Dog Control in Wildwood Area - Emails from Residents
The Caucus was presented with 2 emails from Wildwood residents' in regards to Dog Control concerns in Wildwood. The Chair reviewed the emails and history of dog control in the Central Cariboo with Caucus
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Emails received
4) Bi-annual presentations from Interior Roads
Caucus received a verbal report from Director Sorley in regards to bi-annual presentations from Interior Roads
Discussion ensued thereon...
No resolution resulted
5) Action Page
The Caucus was presented with the Action Page, dated November 28th
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Action page received
The Caucus adjourned at 4:47pm
The Chair called the meeting to order at 3:00pm. He acknowledged that the meeting was taking place on the traditional territory of the Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) peoples and welcomed Cariboo RD Area 'J' Director Gerald Kirby to his first Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus meeting
Meeting agenda approved and minutes of the June 20th Rural Caucus meeting were received/adopted
Delegation:
Robin Dawes and Lisa Seabourne, from the Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club, appeared before the Caucus to provide an update on the activities of the Club, and to discuss the status of the $9,000 Grant for Assistance funding that the CRD is holding in trust
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair, on behalf of Caucus, thanked the delegation for their time/information
Business:
1) Rural Caucus 101
The Chair led a presentation on the operation of Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus
A Question/Answer period ensued thereon...
No resolution required
2) 2019 Grant for Assistance applications
The Caucus was presented with the 2019 Grant for Assistance applications and recommendations from Staff
Discussion ensued thereon...
Resolved - That it be recommended to the Regional Board that CRD Board Policy be waived, as required, and Grants for Assistance be approved as discussed with the exception of Big Lake Community Association (upgrade well casing) and Williams Lake Curling Club to be referred to Staff for consideration of other funding options, the Grant for Assistance application from Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy be referred to the South Cariboo Joint Committee and the Grant for Assistance application from Social Planning Council of Williams Lake and Area be referred to the January 2019 CC Rural Caucus Meeting for further consideration
3) Dog Control in Wildwood Area - Emails from Residents
The Caucus was presented with 2 emails from Wildwood residents' in regards to Dog Control concerns in Wildwood. The Chair reviewed the emails and history of dog control in the Central Cariboo with Caucus
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Emails received
4) Bi-annual presentations from Interior Roads
Caucus received a verbal report from Director Sorley in regards to bi-annual presentations from Interior Roads
Discussion ensued thereon...
No resolution resulted
5) Action Page
The Caucus was presented with the Action Page, dated November 28th
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Action page received
The Caucus adjourned at 4:47pm
Technology the Focus of “TechDev 101” Workshop on December 5, 2018
Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:
The City of Williams Lake has sponsored a workshop aimed at bringing the tech community together to consider how using technology and innovation can become an economic driver for the region. The Ministry of Jobs, Trade and Technology is hosting a workshop series called “TechDev101” across the province. The Williams Lake workshop will be held at the TRU Williams Lake campus on Wednesday, December 5, 2018 from 9 am to 4 pm. It is free to attend, and includes lunch sponsored by the City of Williams Lake.
“We are pleased to co-host this event with TRU, and welcome participants from the Cariboo region that are in the technology or economic development fields,” says Beth Veenkamp, Economic Development Officer for the City of Williams Lake. “The truth is that even though tech is not a highly visible sector in the Cariboo, it does exist all around us in different fields such as health care, heavy industry, and education. The purpose of this workshop is to bring these people together to gain a greater understanding of who our current leaders are in innovative technologies, and how as a community we can work with our local governments and institutions to do a better job of supporting this talent to facilitate growth.”
“The Province of BC is a leader in tech growth, and the aim of this workshop is to assist rural regions to capitalize on the opportunities that the tech sector can bring,” continues Veenkamp. “With the use of technology, we already know that people can work from anywhere. It is not unrealistic to promote places like Williams Lake as a base of operations, or a satellite site for workers in this industry. With the changes predicted in our traditional economic drivers like forestry, the potential to re-purpose shut down sites for technology hubs provides a real opportunity to bring in investment and talent. In economic development, we have seen a shift from communities looking for “smoke-stacks” to provide good paying jobs, and we now look for opportunities for “server-stacks”. The Cariboo region has a lot to gain from working together to attract these companies.”
To register for this event, visit:
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/techdev101-building-and-support…
https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/techdev101-building-and-support…
For more information, contact Beth Veenkamp, Economic Development Officer, at bveenkamp@williamslake.ca, or call 250-392-8480 / 250-302-1585.
Forestry remains our future
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
Editor's Note -- this week's Quesnel Council News column is written by Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson. He can be reached via email here
With the layoffs at Tolko Questwood and the recent announcement of the permanent loss of one shift at West Fraser’s Quesnel sawmill, people are rightly concerned about the future of the forest sector here in Quesnel and in the Interior of the province in general. Those fears and concerns are warranted, especially for workers and their families who depend on this sector to keep a roof over their head and food on their table.
I’ve been calling on the Province to help companies, communities, contractors and workers to prepare for this eventuality since I was first elected to the Legislature in 2005. The reduction in the annual allowable cut throughout the Mountain Pine Beetle and wildfire impacted areas of the provincial forest should not be a surprise to anyone, nor should the inevitable, and necessary, downsizing in the forest sector, we’ve known this day was going to come since 2002.
Consequently, I applaud West Fraser’s approach to right sizing their mills to the available timber supply. They are making planned step changes, with advance notice, assistance to impacted employees, and attempting to minimize the impact in the various communities they operate in. We need all the other major forest companies to take a similar approach if we are to manage this necessary rationalization, avoid a “cod fishery” like impact on our mid and long timber supply, and avoid catastrophic mill closures in single mill towns.
Over the past term, Quesnel City Council took steps to prepare for this inevitable rationalization in the forest sector. As a result, the City is in a much better place financially and strategically to manage our way through this transition period.
Council also made a deliberate choice to engage in a process to start reinventing our forest sector from the ground up: from forest management to manufacturing to markets.
Our “Future of Forestry Think Tank” process is a City-led initiative to gather all the players together to proactively work toward a new vision for forestry that will see us remain a forest dependent community for generations to come. In short, rather than simply trying to diversifying our economy away from forestry, we believe we can take steps to revitalize and reinvent our forest sector so it will remain the mainstay of our economy, generating long term employment and investments in our community despite a shrinking annual allowable cut.
We have had terrific support from the Provincial government for this initiative, at all levels. In fact, the level of engagement and support we’re experiencing from the current provincial government is far superior to anything we were able to generate under the previous administration. The recent announcement of substantial funding from the Province for our Think Tank process is simply the latest evidence of this support. This funding will allow us to accelerate our process and see concrete results sooner.
The City’s Think Tank process also has tremendous buy-in and support from industry, First Nations, researchers, and post-secondary institutions – all critical partners for the success of this project.
In the meantime, the current downsizing in the forest sector is happening at a time when the whole economy is experiencing critical labour shortages, making it a good time for people to transition into new jobs and acquire new, much needed skills to fill critical vacancies in the labour market. We will continue to work with government, industry, and the post-secondary institutions to ensure the necessary transition training programs are made available to workers in a timely manner.
Without question, this will be a challenging transition, but steps are being taken to manage this transition as best as we can and to minimize, as much as possible, the negative impacts on communities and households.
Editor's Note -- this week's Quesnel Council News column is written by Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson. He can be reached via email here
With the layoffs at Tolko Questwood and the recent announcement of the permanent loss of one shift at West Fraser’s Quesnel sawmill, people are rightly concerned about the future of the forest sector here in Quesnel and in the Interior of the province in general. Those fears and concerns are warranted, especially for workers and their families who depend on this sector to keep a roof over their head and food on their table.
I’ve been calling on the Province to help companies, communities, contractors and workers to prepare for this eventuality since I was first elected to the Legislature in 2005. The reduction in the annual allowable cut throughout the Mountain Pine Beetle and wildfire impacted areas of the provincial forest should not be a surprise to anyone, nor should the inevitable, and necessary, downsizing in the forest sector, we’ve known this day was going to come since 2002.
Consequently, I applaud West Fraser’s approach to right sizing their mills to the available timber supply. They are making planned step changes, with advance notice, assistance to impacted employees, and attempting to minimize the impact in the various communities they operate in. We need all the other major forest companies to take a similar approach if we are to manage this necessary rationalization, avoid a “cod fishery” like impact on our mid and long timber supply, and avoid catastrophic mill closures in single mill towns.
Over the past term, Quesnel City Council took steps to prepare for this inevitable rationalization in the forest sector. As a result, the City is in a much better place financially and strategically to manage our way through this transition period.
Council also made a deliberate choice to engage in a process to start reinventing our forest sector from the ground up: from forest management to manufacturing to markets.
Our “Future of Forestry Think Tank” process is a City-led initiative to gather all the players together to proactively work toward a new vision for forestry that will see us remain a forest dependent community for generations to come. In short, rather than simply trying to diversifying our economy away from forestry, we believe we can take steps to revitalize and reinvent our forest sector so it will remain the mainstay of our economy, generating long term employment and investments in our community despite a shrinking annual allowable cut.
We have had terrific support from the Provincial government for this initiative, at all levels. In fact, the level of engagement and support we’re experiencing from the current provincial government is far superior to anything we were able to generate under the previous administration. The recent announcement of substantial funding from the Province for our Think Tank process is simply the latest evidence of this support. This funding will allow us to accelerate our process and see concrete results sooner.
The City’s Think Tank process also has tremendous buy-in and support from industry, First Nations, researchers, and post-secondary institutions – all critical partners for the success of this project.
In the meantime, the current downsizing in the forest sector is happening at a time when the whole economy is experiencing critical labour shortages, making it a good time for people to transition into new jobs and acquire new, much needed skills to fill critical vacancies in the labour market. We will continue to work with government, industry, and the post-secondary institutions to ensure the necessary transition training programs are made available to workers in a timely manner.
Without question, this will be a challenging transition, but steps are being taken to manage this transition as best as we can and to minimize, as much as possible, the negative impacts on communities and households.
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
Wildwood Fire Chief honored for exemplary service
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
On Saturday, Nov. 25, Fire Chief Randy Worsley of the CRD’s Wildwood Volunteer Fire Department received the Governor General’s Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal for his 30 years of service with the fire department. A ceremony was held at the Wildwood Fire Hall and CRD Electoral Area D Director Steve Forseth presented the award.
“I could not be prouder of Chief Worsley. He is a tremendous asset to the Wildwood VFD, his community and the Regional District. It is wonderful to see his years of service honoured in this way,” said Director Forseth.
CRD Manager of Protective Services Stephanie Masun, who also attended the event, added: “Thank you Randy for your dedication and commitment to the Wildwood Volunteer Fire Department. Your knowledge and leadership are an inspiration to those who work with you.”
The Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal honours members of a recognized Canadian fire service who have completed 20 years of service, ten years of which have been served in the performance of duties involving potential risks.
Chief Worsley was first awarded the Exemplary Service Medal on June 20, 2007, upon his 20 years of service. For his additional 10-year period of service, a Bar bearing a stylized maple leaf is awarded to add to the Medal.
The Cariboo Regional District has 14 volunteer fire departments, which are managed through the Protective Services Department. For more information about the department or to learn about joining these groups of dedicated volunteers, visit cariboord.ca/firedepartments
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| From L-R: Cariboo-North MLA Coralee Oakes, Wildwood VFD Fire Chief Randy Worsley Cariboo RD Area 'D' Director Steve Forseth and CRD Mgr of Protective Services Stephanie Masun |
On Saturday, Nov. 25, Fire Chief Randy Worsley of the CRD’s Wildwood Volunteer Fire Department received the Governor General’s Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal for his 30 years of service with the fire department. A ceremony was held at the Wildwood Fire Hall and CRD Electoral Area D Director Steve Forseth presented the award.
“I could not be prouder of Chief Worsley. He is a tremendous asset to the Wildwood VFD, his community and the Regional District. It is wonderful to see his years of service honoured in this way,” said Director Forseth.
CRD Manager of Protective Services Stephanie Masun, who also attended the event, added: “Thank you Randy for your dedication and commitment to the Wildwood Volunteer Fire Department. Your knowledge and leadership are an inspiration to those who work with you.”
The Fire Services Exemplary Service Medal honours members of a recognized Canadian fire service who have completed 20 years of service, ten years of which have been served in the performance of duties involving potential risks.
Chief Worsley was first awarded the Exemplary Service Medal on June 20, 2007, upon his 20 years of service. For his additional 10-year period of service, a Bar bearing a stylized maple leaf is awarded to add to the Medal.
The Cariboo Regional District has 14 volunteer fire departments, which are managed through the Protective Services Department. For more information about the department or to learn about joining these groups of dedicated volunteers, visit cariboord.ca/firedepartments
City Working to Reduce Fire Hazard in Westridge and Hamel Estates Areas
Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:
The Williams Lake Fire Department is working with local land owners and developers to reduce the fuel load within the City of Williams Lake’s fire protection boundary.
The City has issued burn permits to remove or reduce historical slash piles and overgrowth surrounding the City. Residents can anticipate burning activities to occur periodically over the next few weeks in the Westridge and Hamel Estates areas.
For more information, contact Erick Peterson, Fire Chief at epeterson@williamslake.ca; or 250.392.1794
Sunday, November 25, 2018
2018 International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
Today is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - a day to raise awareness of the fact that women around the world are subject to rape, domestic violence and other forms of violence - more details here
As society - we can and simply must more to eliminate ALL forms of gender based violence, particularly against women. I have supported local events on this topic and always glad to do so, as it is a subject that needs to have a deep light shined on it so that we have a safe society for all, whether you are a man or women....
Finally - our Canadian Prime Minister, Rt Hon Justin Trudeau, released a statement this morning on this Day:
As society - we can and simply must more to eliminate ALL forms of gender based violence, particularly against women. I have supported local events on this topic and always glad to do so, as it is a subject that needs to have a deep light shined on it so that we have a safe society for all, whether you are a man or women....
Finally - our Canadian Prime Minister, Rt Hon Justin Trudeau, released a statement this morning on this Day:
Gender-based violence harms us all. It affects families, schools, and workplaces – and holds back whole communities from reaching their full potential.
“Today, on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, we come together to stand up and speak out against violence against women and people of diverse gender identities. We reflect on what each of us can do, in our daily lives, to combat violence and create change.
“Trans women and gender-diverse people experience violence at staggering rates worldwide. Displaced, migrant, and refugee women are both particularly vulnerable and face greater obstacles to seeking safety and justice. The epidemic of missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls in Canada is an ongoing tragedy and our collective shame.
“As we reflect on this unacceptable reality, we also honour the activists who are on the frontlines of helping survivors reclaim their voices, autonomy, and lives. Their advocacy benefits all of us, because an attack on women’s rights is a threat to all our human rights.
“The Government of Canada has taken important steps to help end gender-based violence. Last year, we launched It’s Time: Canada’s Strategy to Prevent and Address Gender-Based Violence. The Strategy focuses on preventing gender-based violence, providing stronger support for survivors and their families, and improving the response of our justice systems.
“This year, we made gender equality and women’s empowerment the guiding theme of Canada’s G7 Presidency. During the Summit, leaders recognized the urgent need to protect the rights of women and girls around the world – especially those in conflict situations – and signed the G7 Charlevoix Commitment to End Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, Abuse and Harassment in Digital Contexts. This commitment will help us build better prevention and crisis response strategies and better support for survivors of gender-based violence.
“Building on these achievements, Canada put forward a resolution at the United Nations Human Rights Council aimed at preventing and responding to violence against women and girls in digital contexts. Countries around the world adopted the resolution and committed to be part of the solution.
“But we can do more. Together, we need to change the culture that allows discrimination, harassment, and violence against women to continue in our communities. When women and girls come forward to tell their stories of survival, we cannot dismiss or ignore them. Their courage creates change that benefits all of us. We need to listen to women, respect them, value them, and protect their human rights.
“As we mark the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, I ask all Canadians to do their part to protect the rights of women and take action to bring an end to gender-based violence. We all benefit when women and girls are safe and free to live their lives to the fullest.”
33rd Annual Wildwood VFD Firefighter Appreciation Dinner
Last night - it was my honour along with Cariboo-North MLA Coralee Oakes to attend the 33rd Annual Wildwood VFD Firefighter Appreciation Dinner.
After the most excellent meal prepared, I spoke to the gathering thanking all of the firefighters in the Wildwood Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) for their public service in keeping their community safe. Stephanie Masun who is the Cariboo Regional District's Manager of Protective Services also spoke. I also presented service pins to several Wildwood VFD firefighters recognizing their length of service
It was also my great pleasure and pride to present a special award from the Governor-General of Canada thanked Wildwood VFD Fire Chief Randy Worsley for his 30 years of exemplary fire service to the community of Wildwood. He was previously recognized by the Cariboo Regional District earlier this year for his 30 years of service to the Wildwood VFD with the presentation of his 30th Fire Axe
On behalf of the people of Wildwood, Deep Creek and half of Fox Mountain who receives Fire Protection and First Responder Services from the Wildwood VFD - our collective appreciation/gratitude to the firefighters/officers of the Wildwood VFD. Your dedication to your craft and public service to the Wildwood VFD Fire Protection District is greatly appreciated and we are collectively thankful that you willingly give up your time to providing such a basic public service...
~SF
Friday, November 23, 2018
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Nov 26-30
The following local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin are meeting next week, as follows:
Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 27th at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Presentation -- University of Northern British Columbia - Environmental Planning Class Theory Project - Revitalization - click here
* Reports from Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee Meetings of Nov 13/20
* Comprehensive Fees and Charges Bylaw Update
* Cannabis Retail
* Downtown Parking
* Wayfinding Strategy Implementation
* Municipal Regional District Tax Facilitator
View the full Agenda here
School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Regular Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, November 27th at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Presentation -- "Big Lake Elementary: Cultivating a Culture of Thinking Through Wonder, Wilderness, and Wi-fi"
* Review of SD27 Policies -- Boarding Allowance; Recruitment and Selection of Excluded (Non-Educational), Teaching and Support Staff; Health Promoting Schools;
* Board Committee Appointments - Chair W. MacDonald to announce
* Reports from SD27 Superintendent and Secretary-Treasurer
* Discussion Items -- BCSTA Leadership Workshops Update; B.C. Tripartite Education Agreement; B.C. Human Rights Tribunal and Board Training Session
View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, November 27th at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
Editor's Note -- from 4-6pm on November 27th in WL City Hall Foyer -- Open House on DRAFT Williams Lake and Fringe Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) -- details here
* Presentation from Mike Simpson, etc -- WL/Fringe Draft CWPP (Recommendation to WL Council to receive/approve the Draft CWPP)
* 2019-2029 Preliminary Capital Budget and Plan
* 2019 Budget and 2019-2023 Financial Plan - Water, Sewer and Transit
* Conversion to LED Lighting for City-Owned Facilities and Infrastructure (Report from Councillor S. Nelson)
View the full Agenda here
100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 27th at 7pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Cariboo Regional District -- Meetings as noted below:
Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus -- Regular Meeting on Wednesday, November 28th at 3pm in the CRD Committee Room (180D North 3rd Avenue). On the Agenda:
* Delegation -- Robin Dawes and Lisa Seabourne, from the Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club, will appear before the Caucus to provide an update on the activities of the Club, and to discuss the status of the $9,000 Grant for Assistance funding that the CRD is holding in trust.
* 2019 Grant for Assistance applications
* Emails from Wildwood residents' regarding Dog Control
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Wednesday, November 28th at 5:30pm in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake)
On the Agenda:
* 2018 Performances in the Park Report - Central Cariboo Arts/Culture Society
* 2018 Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society 3rd Quarter Report
* Fee for Service Management Committee - 2019 Appointments
* Cariboo Strong Grants Program - Central Cariboo Funding Allocation and Approved Projects
* Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club (WLCCSC) Equipment Storage and Rental Facility Project - Cariboo Strong Funding
* Proposed 2019 Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting Schedule
* Verbal Update re Williams Lake & Area Community Wildfire Protection Plan
* Action Page for November 28, 2018
View the full Agenda here
Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 27th at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Presentation -- University of Northern British Columbia - Environmental Planning Class Theory Project - Revitalization - click here
* Reports from Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee Meetings of Nov 13/20
* Comprehensive Fees and Charges Bylaw Update
* Cannabis Retail
* Downtown Parking
* Wayfinding Strategy Implementation
* Municipal Regional District Tax Facilitator
View the full Agenda here
School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Regular Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, November 27th at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Presentation -- "Big Lake Elementary: Cultivating a Culture of Thinking Through Wonder, Wilderness, and Wi-fi"
* Review of SD27 Policies -- Boarding Allowance; Recruitment and Selection of Excluded (Non-Educational), Teaching and Support Staff; Health Promoting Schools;
* Board Committee Appointments - Chair W. MacDonald to announce
* Reports from SD27 Superintendent and Secretary-Treasurer
* Discussion Items -- BCSTA Leadership Workshops Update; B.C. Tripartite Education Agreement; B.C. Human Rights Tribunal and Board Training Session
View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, November 27th at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
Editor's Note -- from 4-6pm on November 27th in WL City Hall Foyer -- Open House on DRAFT Williams Lake and Fringe Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) -- details here
* Presentation from Mike Simpson, etc -- WL/Fringe Draft CWPP (Recommendation to WL Council to receive/approve the Draft CWPP)
* 2019-2029 Preliminary Capital Budget and Plan
* 2019 Budget and 2019-2023 Financial Plan - Water, Sewer and Transit
* Conversion to LED Lighting for City-Owned Facilities and Infrastructure (Report from Councillor S. Nelson)
View the full Agenda here
100 Mile House - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 27th at 7pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue). When available, the Agenda can be viewed here
Cariboo Regional District -- Meetings as noted below:
Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus -- Regular Meeting on Wednesday, November 28th at 3pm in the CRD Committee Room (180D North 3rd Avenue). On the Agenda:
* Delegation -- Robin Dawes and Lisa Seabourne, from the Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club, will appear before the Caucus to provide an update on the activities of the Club, and to discuss the status of the $9,000 Grant for Assistance funding that the CRD is holding in trust.
* 2019 Grant for Assistance applications
* Emails from Wildwood residents' regarding Dog Control
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Wednesday, November 28th at 5:30pm in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake)
On the Agenda:
* 2018 Performances in the Park Report - Central Cariboo Arts/Culture Society
* 2018 Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society 3rd Quarter Report
* Fee for Service Management Committee - 2019 Appointments
* Cariboo Strong Grants Program - Central Cariboo Funding Allocation and Approved Projects
* Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club (WLCCSC) Equipment Storage and Rental Facility Project - Cariboo Strong Funding
* Proposed 2019 Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting Schedule
* Verbal Update re Williams Lake & Area Community Wildfire Protection Plan
* Action Page for November 28, 2018
View the full Agenda here
Thursday, November 22, 2018
Quesnel Council Highlights - Nov 20th mtg
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
Snow removal budget
Due to larger than normal snow volume in early 2018, the snow removal costs are anticipated to exceed budget allocation this year. Snow removal will continue as per policyand any costs exceeding budget will be allocated from the snow removal reserve and/or 2018 surplus funds.
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Council Committees & Appointments
Council has approved the Council Committees & Appointments Schedule “A”, with the exception of the Quesnel Volunteer Citizen of the Year Committee. Councillor Roodenburg will investigate the potential for a community volunteer appreciation event and report back to Council.
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Contravention of Municipal Building Regulations
Council directed staff to file notices with the Land Title Office stating the following properties are in contravention of the City’s Building Bylaw:
Properties must be brought into compliance prior to applying to the City to have this notice removed from the property’s land title.
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Indigenous Cultural Centre
The City of Quesnel and Lhtako Dene Nation have partnered to create a shared vision of an Indigenous Cultural Centre at Ceal Tingley Park, the site of a prior Lhtako settlement and the first European contact. The Centre will provide a local home for Lhtako history and artifacts currently housed at UBC and, will serve as a gathering place for the whole community. Alfred Waugh, a revered Canadian Indigenous Architect has been secured to prepare a design for the site. Quesnel City Council approved funding for a quantity survey for the proposed Indigenous Cultural Centre to determine the project cost that will be used to apply to the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, Community, Culture and Recreation stream.
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Northern Development Initiative Trust Grant Applications
Council approved the following NDIT grant applications: $50,000 Economic Development Capacity Building, $8,000 Grant Writing support, $20,000 Business Façade Improvement, $35,000 Local Government Management Intern and $16,475 Marketing Initiatives.
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Union of B.C. Municipalities Grant
Council approved the following UBCM grant applications: $25,000 Evacuation Route Planning and $15,000 Age Friendly Communities Stream 2.
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Dedication of Veterans’ Way
Councillor Paull will continue to work with Staff to further develop the concept for the proposed Veteran’s Way project. The goal is to have the commemoration in place for the 2019 Remembrance Day ceremony and a report will return for Council review at a future meeting.
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Electronic Fund Transfers and Accounts Payable Reports
EFTs and accounts payable summary reports will now be posted to the Financial Sustainability & Audit Committee Agendas on a quarterly basis, rather than detailed reports being included on council agendas. These will appear January, April, July, and October and can be located at www.quesnel.ca/city-hall/council-meetings/agendas-minutes
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Southern Mountain Caribou
Quesnel City Council directed staff to prepare a letter of support to align with the Interior Mayors and Chairs letter of November 16, 2018 to Premier Horgan, which outlined concerns about the current process between the provincial and federal governments to achieve a section 11 Conservation Agreement for caribou protection and the lack of consultation with affected communities.
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Bylaw 1845 – Cannabis Regulations
Council defeated this Bylaw and provided direction to staff to revisit policy options on cannabis retail stores including: permitting private and government cannabis stores in the community; the number of stores that should be allowed within the community; the proximity to schools and parks; and process options developed for application review in other communities.
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Next Meetings
6 pm, November 27 – Regular Council Meeting
6 pm; December 4 – Regular Council Meeting
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Wednesday, November 21, 2018
Cariboo RD Area D Alternate Director for 2018-22 term
Good afternoon:
I have re-appointed Ms. Phyllis Webstad to the position of Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area 'D' Alternate Director. This is a mandatory appointment I must make under the provisions of Section 201 of the Local Government Act. The appointment will last the entire term of 2018-2022. The Alternate Director attends meetings of the Cariboo Regional District Board, Committee of the Whole or Central Cariboo Rural Caucus or Joint Committee, only at my request
Thank you, Phyllis!, for serving the 2014-2018 term as the Cariboo RD Area D Alternate Director and agreeing to take on this role again for a 2nd term
~SF
I have re-appointed Ms. Phyllis Webstad to the position of Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area 'D' Alternate Director. This is a mandatory appointment I must make under the provisions of Section 201 of the Local Government Act. The appointment will last the entire term of 2018-2022. The Alternate Director attends meetings of the Cariboo Regional District Board, Committee of the Whole or Central Cariboo Rural Caucus or Joint Committee, only at my request
Thank you, Phyllis!, for serving the 2014-2018 term as the Cariboo RD Area D Alternate Director and agreeing to take on this role again for a 2nd term
~SF
Let It Snow in a Manageable Way!
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
Editor's Note -- this week's Quesnel Council News column is written by Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson. He can be reached via email here
Editor's Note -- this week's Quesnel Council News column is written by Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson. He can be reached via email here
In a recent meeting with Curl BC I got really excited about snow. As I’ve stated before, one of the reasons I love living here is that we get to enjoy all four seasons, and I enjoy winter outdoor activities as much as I do all the other seasons, but winter activities need snow!
The meeting we had with Curl BC was to plan for the upcoming Provincial Curling Championships that will be held in Quesnel at the West Fraser Centre from January 29 to February 3, 2019. The Men’s Curling Championship will feature 12 men’s teams competing for the chance to represent BC at the 2019 Tim Hortons Brier in Brandon, Manitoba. The BC Scotties Women’s Curling Championship will feature eight women’s teams competing for the chance to represent BC at the 2019 Scotties Tournament of Hearts in Sydney, Nova Scotia. Tickets to the Quesnel events are available online at www.eventbrite.ca.
These Championship events will provide a significant boost to our local economy during the post-Christmas “retail doldrums” and are an ideal opportunity for us to showcase Quesnel to a large TV audience. That’s why I got excited about snow during the meeting with Curl BC, as we were reviewing the City’s new winter promotional videos with their media team. These videos, which show people being active outdoors in the winter, are gorgeous and present our City and region as a really fun place to be when the white stuff comes.
But, my excitement to see the snow come is clearly tempered by the other aspects of this inevitable part of winter: the potentially treacherous driving conditions and the costs of snow removal.
As we’ve experienced with the first bit of snow this year, it makes driving a challenge and it takes a while for both the City crews and Emcon Services (highways and Cariboo Regional District) to get around to the side roads as they must focus on the priority thoroughfares where the bulk of the traffic is moving. The City of Quesnel has very high standards for snow removal and I believe our crews do an excellent job of clearing and sanding our roads in a timely manner. We also provide an end of driveway clearing service when we get larger snow events.
The high standards for snow removal established by Council come with a price: about $1 million per year or approximately 6% of our general operating expenses. This year, as a result of the big snow events that occurred earlier in the year, we have already surpassed $1 million and will be tapping into our nominal snow reserve to cover any additional costs for snow removal in 2018. Council believes these costs are warranted in order to ensure we can make our roads and sidewalks as safe as possible during the winter months.
However, as a result of a changing climate, snow removal is increasingly becoming a challenge. We are now experiencing more “snow events” (continuous or back-to-back snow storms with large accumulations of snow) and winter temperatures that keep popping above and below zero, rather than settling into a few months of below zero conditions. The combination of these snow events and freeze/thaw conditions is challenging for our crews, despite the significant budget we put toward this public service.
So, while many of us look forward to and enjoy the different outdoor activities snow affords us, we must all take the necessary steps to ensure we can move about safely when the white stuff comes: have good winter tires on our vehicles, wear good winter footwear and/or put traction devices on our footwear, and drive and walk in accordance with the conditions. In some cases, this may mean avoiding travelling until our crews have had a chance to do their job.
City of Quesnel/Lhtako Dene Nation working together on an Indigenous Cultural Centre
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
The City and Quesnel and Lhtako Dene Nation have partnered to create a shared vision of an Indigenous Cultural Centre. If successful, this joint project will create a functional community space that will promote and celebrate local Indigenous culture.
The Cultural Centre concept first emerged during discussions with Lhtako Dene prior to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Lhtako Dene Nation and the City of Quesnel in 2017. The Indigenous Cultural Centre is a joint project between the City of Quesnel and Lhtako Dene Nation.
Funds from Cariboo Strong, Carbioo-Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition, and BC Rural Dividend are being used to retain Formline Architecture to complete the initial design and to hire a consultant to produce a business case for the Centre.
Formline Architecture is an award-winning architecture firm located in BC. The company is founded by Alfred Waugh one of the few registered Indigenous Architects in Canada. The studio specializes in working on environmentally responsible and culturally sensitive projects that reflect and reinforce the values and visions of the client. View their portfolio here: www.formline.ca.
In developing the concept, Formline Architecture has held consultations with the Lhtako Dene Nation, the City of Quesnel, and potential partners who would utilize the centre. Two visioning workshops have been held to ensure many voices and ideas were heard.
The proposed location for the Centre is at Ceal Tingley Park at the confluence of the Fraser and Quesnel Rivers. This site is significant to Lhtako Dene as it was the location of a large settlement and it is also the site of first European contact. The current River Front Trail will be incorporated into the site plans.
The Centre will provide a local home for Lhtako Dene artifacts (currently stored at UBC), and will serve as a community gathering place. The shared vision for the Centre is a place for the whole community. The proposed concept includes a potential theatre space, gift shop, bistro, accessible washrooms, and space to display local art and larger pieces of significance.
Quesnel City Council has approved funds to order a quantity survey for the proposed Indigenous Cultural Centre. Once the quantity survey is complete and the project cost is known, the City of Quesnel and Lhtako Dene Nation will prepare a grant application for funding.
Chief Clifford Lebrun from the Lhtako Dene Nation stated:
“It is exciting that we can come together as local communities to enjoy such a wonderful facility.”
While Bob Simpson, the Mayor of Quesnel also said:
“This is an incredible opportunity for us to demonstrate true reconciliation while celebrating the significance of our First Nations heritage at a location that is historically and culturally significant to the Lhtako Dene and Southern Carrier people.”
The City and Quesnel and Lhtako Dene Nation have partnered to create a shared vision of an Indigenous Cultural Centre. If successful, this joint project will create a functional community space that will promote and celebrate local Indigenous culture.
The Cultural Centre concept first emerged during discussions with Lhtako Dene prior to the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Lhtako Dene Nation and the City of Quesnel in 2017. The Indigenous Cultural Centre is a joint project between the City of Quesnel and Lhtako Dene Nation.
Funds from Cariboo Strong, Carbioo-Chilcotin Beetle Action Coalition, and BC Rural Dividend are being used to retain Formline Architecture to complete the initial design and to hire a consultant to produce a business case for the Centre.
Formline Architecture is an award-winning architecture firm located in BC. The company is founded by Alfred Waugh one of the few registered Indigenous Architects in Canada. The studio specializes in working on environmentally responsible and culturally sensitive projects that reflect and reinforce the values and visions of the client. View their portfolio here: www.formline.ca.
In developing the concept, Formline Architecture has held consultations with the Lhtako Dene Nation, the City of Quesnel, and potential partners who would utilize the centre. Two visioning workshops have been held to ensure many voices and ideas were heard.
The proposed location for the Centre is at Ceal Tingley Park at the confluence of the Fraser and Quesnel Rivers. This site is significant to Lhtako Dene as it was the location of a large settlement and it is also the site of first European contact. The current River Front Trail will be incorporated into the site plans.
The Centre will provide a local home for Lhtako Dene artifacts (currently stored at UBC), and will serve as a community gathering place. The shared vision for the Centre is a place for the whole community. The proposed concept includes a potential theatre space, gift shop, bistro, accessible washrooms, and space to display local art and larger pieces of significance.
Quesnel City Council has approved funds to order a quantity survey for the proposed Indigenous Cultural Centre. Once the quantity survey is complete and the project cost is known, the City of Quesnel and Lhtako Dene Nation will prepare a grant application for funding.
Chief Clifford Lebrun from the Lhtako Dene Nation stated:
“It is exciting that we can come together as local communities to enjoy such a wonderful facility.”
While Bob Simpson, the Mayor of Quesnel also said:
“This is an incredible opportunity for us to demonstrate true reconciliation while celebrating the significance of our First Nations heritage at a location that is historically and culturally significant to the Lhtako Dene and Southern Carrier people.”
Tuesday, November 20, 2018
WL Council Highlights - November 20th mtg
Present: Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors S. Boehm, I. Bonnell, S. Nelson, J. Ryll and C. Smith
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Meeting Agenda with the late item adopted and Minutes of the Regular Meeting of WL City Council on October 30th, 2018 and the Inaugural Meeting of the 2018-2022 Williams Lake City Council on November 6th, 2018 were both received/adopted
Delegations:
1) Mike Lawrence & Chad Mernett from Interior Roads appeared before Council to discuss Winter Preparedness Program for Public Roads
A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked the delegation for their time/information
2) Anne Burrill, Project Lead appeared before Council to discuss Overview of Thrive Community Poverty Reduction Project - click here
A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked Ms. Burrill for their time/information
3) Jeff Pelley, RCMP Inspector/Williams Lake Detachment Commander appeared before Council to present Police Commission Report for October 2018
A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked Inspector Pelley for his time/information
Resolved - That the Police Commission report for Ocrober 2018 by RCMP Inspector / Detachment Commander Jeff Pelley be received.
Business:
Finance:
1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated October 15, 16, 22, 23, 24, 25, November 1, 2 and 8, 2018
2) Council authorized registration, travel, accommodation and associated expenses for interested Council members to attend the Local Government Leadership Academy's (LGLA) Elected Officials Seminar from January 30 to February 1, 2019 in Prince George, BC.
General Governance:
1) Council ratified an email poll to authorize the raising of the national Metis flag in honour of Louis Riel on November 16, 2018
At 6:55pm - Councillor Nelson declared a potential/perceived conflict of interest on the next few items and left Council Chambers
2) After receiving no public input - Council approved Development Variance Permit No. 05-2018 for ICE Development Ltd., on behalf of BC Retail Partners (Boitanio Mall) Ltd. Inc. No. 688286, to vary Section 223 (1) – “Cannabis Related Regulations” of City of Williams Lake Zoning Bylaw No. 1825, 2002 to reduce the minimum distance requirement for a retail cannabis store from the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex from 300m to 260m, for the proposed provincial retail cannabis store only, on Lot A, District Lot 71, Cariboo District, Plan EPP78192, located at 850 Oliver Street. Council divided - Motion agreed to by the following vote:
Affirmative - Mayor Cobb and Councillors Bonnell and Ryll
Negative - Councillors S. Boehm and C. Smith
3) Council agreed to provide approval of the proposed Provincial Retail Cannabis Provincial License application made by Daily Stash Cannabis Ltd. on the subject property at 250 Mackenzie Avenue South, subject to receipt of a comprehensive security plan to be approved by the RCMP, and satisfactory criminal record checks of the applicant and the store manager.
4) Council directed City Staff to initiate the public notification process for a proposed retail cannabis store to be located at 3015 Mackenzie Avenue North and public comments be brought back to Council for final consideration after completion of the public notification process
5) Council directed City Staff to respond to BC LCRB stating that the proposed retail cannabis store location at 68 Broadway Avenue North (Marlee's Den) is within 500m of another retail cannabis store and as such, a Development Variance Permit application is required to be submitted by the applicant and considered by Council prior to Council’s final recommendation to BC LCRB. Council policy directs that the DVP public notification will incorporate the provincial public consultation process
6) Council directed City Staff to respond to BC LCRB stating that the proposed retail cannabis store location at 94 Second Avenue North (Flora) is within 500m of another retail cannabis store and as such, a Development Variance Permit application is required to be submitted by the applicant and considered by Council prior to Council’s final recommendation to BC LCRB. Council policy directs that the DVP public notification will incorporate the provincial public consultation process
At 7:19pm - Councillor Nelson returned to Council Chambers
7) Council received applications for a Development Permit/Development Variance Permit for property at 1238 Broadway Avenue South (old Shell gas station), directed City Staff to conduct the usual public notifications and the matter return to Council on December 18th for formal consideration
8) Council authorized City Staff to add the Highway 97 and Broadway Avenue South Intersection Improvements Project to the 2019 Capital Budget, and bring forward the necessary bylaw to allocate a contribution from the Development Cost Charge (DCC) Road Reserves for the upgrade of the intersection at Broadway Avenue South and Highway 97 South (adjacent to 1712 Broadway Avenue South) as required by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for approval of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2260 for the property located at 1704 Broadway Avenue South, subject to an appropriate access plan from Highway 97, approved by the Ministry of Transportation/Infrastructure
9) Council directed City Staff to issue notice of the zoning amendment application for Bylaw No. 2260 to rezone the subject property located at 1704 Broadway Avenue South to surrounding property owners and tenants within a 100 metre radius of the subject property, and the Public Hearing be scheduled when a satisfactory access plan from Highway 97 is received from the Ministry of Transportation/Infrastructure
10) Council received information regarding the OCP amendment public consultation meeting held on November 20, 2018, and comments from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure on the proposed development at 1946 Broadway Avenue South, gave 2nd Reading to OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2292 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2293 and that a Public Hearing be held on the matter on December 18th, 2018 and that adoption of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2293 be subject to the required 15m right of way dedication for highway purposes by Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Correspondence:
1) Council received correspondence, as follows:
a) That the Carson Drive and Toop Road Intersection Improvements Progress Report from the Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure dated November 14, 2018 for their Highway 97 upgrade project be received for information.
b) That the Minutes of the Special Central Cariboo / City of Williams Lake Joint Committee Meeting held November 1, 2018 be received and endorsed.
c) That the request from the Williams Lake Community Band in their letter dated November 3, 2018 requesting the waiving of the janitorial service fee for their use of the Council Chambers on the evening of Friday, December 14, 2018 for their annual Christmas concert be approved.
Other Business:
1) Late Item -- Council approved the allocation of $5,000 in the 2019 budget toward, and the application to, the Destination BC Co-operative Marketing Partnership Program to participate in the Regional Consortium initiative known as #ExploreCariboo
2) Late Item #2 - Council agreed to write to the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board requesting it include a helipad as part of the Cariboo Memorial Hospital Renovation Project's Capital Budget (40% CCRHD/60% Province of BC)
3) Council Information Package as of November 20th was received, as follows:
a) November 9, 2018 - CRD Board Highlights;
b) November 16, 2018 - NDIT Summer/Fall 2018 Quarterly Report
4) Members of Council/CAO reported out on their recent activities
Media Question Period
Council agreed to adjourn at 8:22pm
Meeting called to order at 6pm
Meeting Agenda with the late item adopted and Minutes of the Regular Meeting of WL City Council on October 30th, 2018 and the Inaugural Meeting of the 2018-2022 Williams Lake City Council on November 6th, 2018 were both received/adopted
Delegations:
1) Mike Lawrence & Chad Mernett from Interior Roads appeared before Council to discuss Winter Preparedness Program for Public Roads
A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked the delegation for their time/information
2) Anne Burrill, Project Lead appeared before Council to discuss Overview of Thrive Community Poverty Reduction Project - click here
A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked Ms. Burrill for their time/information
3) Jeff Pelley, RCMP Inspector/Williams Lake Detachment Commander appeared before Council to present Police Commission Report for October 2018
A Question/Answer period ensued
Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked Inspector Pelley for his time/information
Resolved - That the Police Commission report for Ocrober 2018 by RCMP Inspector / Detachment Commander Jeff Pelley be received.
Business:
Finance:
1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated October 15, 16, 22, 23, 24, 25, November 1, 2 and 8, 2018
2) Council authorized registration, travel, accommodation and associated expenses for interested Council members to attend the Local Government Leadership Academy's (LGLA) Elected Officials Seminar from January 30 to February 1, 2019 in Prince George, BC.
General Governance:
1) Council ratified an email poll to authorize the raising of the national Metis flag in honour of Louis Riel on November 16, 2018
At 6:55pm - Councillor Nelson declared a potential/perceived conflict of interest on the next few items and left Council Chambers
2) After receiving no public input - Council approved Development Variance Permit No. 05-2018 for ICE Development Ltd., on behalf of BC Retail Partners (Boitanio Mall) Ltd. Inc. No. 688286, to vary Section 223 (1) – “Cannabis Related Regulations” of City of Williams Lake Zoning Bylaw No. 1825, 2002 to reduce the minimum distance requirement for a retail cannabis store from the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex from 300m to 260m, for the proposed provincial retail cannabis store only, on Lot A, District Lot 71, Cariboo District, Plan EPP78192, located at 850 Oliver Street. Council divided - Motion agreed to by the following vote:
Affirmative - Mayor Cobb and Councillors Bonnell and Ryll
Negative - Councillors S. Boehm and C. Smith
3) Council agreed to provide approval of the proposed Provincial Retail Cannabis Provincial License application made by Daily Stash Cannabis Ltd. on the subject property at 250 Mackenzie Avenue South, subject to receipt of a comprehensive security plan to be approved by the RCMP, and satisfactory criminal record checks of the applicant and the store manager.
4) Council directed City Staff to initiate the public notification process for a proposed retail cannabis store to be located at 3015 Mackenzie Avenue North and public comments be brought back to Council for final consideration after completion of the public notification process
5) Council directed City Staff to respond to BC LCRB stating that the proposed retail cannabis store location at 68 Broadway Avenue North (Marlee's Den) is within 500m of another retail cannabis store and as such, a Development Variance Permit application is required to be submitted by the applicant and considered by Council prior to Council’s final recommendation to BC LCRB. Council policy directs that the DVP public notification will incorporate the provincial public consultation process
6) Council directed City Staff to respond to BC LCRB stating that the proposed retail cannabis store location at 94 Second Avenue North (Flora) is within 500m of another retail cannabis store and as such, a Development Variance Permit application is required to be submitted by the applicant and considered by Council prior to Council’s final recommendation to BC LCRB. Council policy directs that the DVP public notification will incorporate the provincial public consultation process
At 7:19pm - Councillor Nelson returned to Council Chambers
7) Council received applications for a Development Permit/Development Variance Permit for property at 1238 Broadway Avenue South (old Shell gas station), directed City Staff to conduct the usual public notifications and the matter return to Council on December 18th for formal consideration
8) Council authorized City Staff to add the Highway 97 and Broadway Avenue South Intersection Improvements Project to the 2019 Capital Budget, and bring forward the necessary bylaw to allocate a contribution from the Development Cost Charge (DCC) Road Reserves for the upgrade of the intersection at Broadway Avenue South and Highway 97 South (adjacent to 1712 Broadway Avenue South) as required by the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for approval of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2260 for the property located at 1704 Broadway Avenue South, subject to an appropriate access plan from Highway 97, approved by the Ministry of Transportation/Infrastructure
9) Council directed City Staff to issue notice of the zoning amendment application for Bylaw No. 2260 to rezone the subject property located at 1704 Broadway Avenue South to surrounding property owners and tenants within a 100 metre radius of the subject property, and the Public Hearing be scheduled when a satisfactory access plan from Highway 97 is received from the Ministry of Transportation/Infrastructure
10) Council received information regarding the OCP amendment public consultation meeting held on November 20, 2018, and comments from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure on the proposed development at 1946 Broadway Avenue South, gave 2nd Reading to OCP Amendment Bylaw No. 2292 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2293 and that a Public Hearing be held on the matter on December 18th, 2018 and that adoption of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2293 be subject to the required 15m right of way dedication for highway purposes by Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Correspondence:
1) Council received correspondence, as follows:
a) That the Carson Drive and Toop Road Intersection Improvements Progress Report from the Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure dated November 14, 2018 for their Highway 97 upgrade project be received for information.
b) That the Minutes of the Special Central Cariboo / City of Williams Lake Joint Committee Meeting held November 1, 2018 be received and endorsed.
c) That the request from the Williams Lake Community Band in their letter dated November 3, 2018 requesting the waiving of the janitorial service fee for their use of the Council Chambers on the evening of Friday, December 14, 2018 for their annual Christmas concert be approved.
Other Business:
1) Late Item -- Council approved the allocation of $5,000 in the 2019 budget toward, and the application to, the Destination BC Co-operative Marketing Partnership Program to participate in the Regional Consortium initiative known as #ExploreCariboo
2) Late Item #2 - Council agreed to write to the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board requesting it include a helipad as part of the Cariboo Memorial Hospital Renovation Project's Capital Budget (40% CCRHD/60% Province of BC)
3) Council Information Package as of November 20th was received, as follows:
a) November 9, 2018 - CRD Board Highlights;
b) November 16, 2018 - NDIT Summer/Fall 2018 Quarterly Report
4) Members of Council/CAO reported out on their recent activities
Media Question Period
Council agreed to adjourn at 8:22pm
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