The preliminary results for the by-election for Electoral Area F Director are as follows:
- LeBourdais = 315 (Elected)
- Rerie = 50
- O’Neill = 27
The official election results will be announced Tuesday, April 2.
Saturday, March 30, 2019
Unofficial Results -- Cariboo RD Area F By-Election
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
The preliminary results for the by-election for Electoral Area F Director are as follows:
- LeBourdais = 315 (Elected)
- Rerie = 50
- O’Neill = 27
The official election results will be announced Tuesday, April 2.
The preliminary results for the by-election for Electoral Area F Director are as follows:
- LeBourdais = 315 (Elected)
- Rerie = 50
- O’Neill = 27
The official election results will be announced Tuesday, April 2.
General Voting Day -- Cariboo RD's Area F By-Election
Today is the Cariboo Regional District's Area 'F' By-Election - General Voting Day. Full details on what you need to know including voting locations/details, etc can be viewed at
https://www.cariboord.ca/government/elections
After the polls close at 8pm this evening, results will be posted here, on the Cariboo Regional District Facebook page (click here) and on the Cariboo Regional District website (click here)
SF
https://www.cariboord.ca/government/elections
After the polls close at 8pm this evening, results will be posted here, on the Cariboo Regional District Facebook page (click here) and on the Cariboo Regional District website (click here)
SF
Friday, March 29, 2019
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of April 1-5
Next week - only the Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake Municipal Councils' will meet. Details below:
Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 2nd at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Committee Reports
* Insurance for Healthcare Recruitment Coordinator
* Outdoor Cafés and Sidewalk Food Vendors Bylaws
* Quesnel Bakery Façade Improvements and Outdoor Café
* Letter from Quesnel Skyfest Society - Partnership Agreement with City of Quesnel (Request for reconsideration of denied funding for SkyFest 2019)
View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, April 2nd at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
* Pinnacle Pellet re Letter of Support Request for Air Amendment Application
* Mid-term review of Council's 2017 to 2020 Strategic Plan
View the full Agenda here
Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 2nd at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Committee Reports
* Insurance for Healthcare Recruitment Coordinator
* Outdoor Cafés and Sidewalk Food Vendors Bylaws
* Quesnel Bakery Façade Improvements and Outdoor Café
* Letter from Quesnel Skyfest Society - Partnership Agreement with City of Quesnel (Request for reconsideration of denied funding for SkyFest 2019)
View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, April 2nd at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
* Pinnacle Pellet re Letter of Support Request for Air Amendment Application
* Mid-term review of Council's 2017 to 2020 Strategic Plan
View the full Agenda here
Thursday, March 28, 2019
Red Bluff Sewer/2019 Spring Runoff
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
The Red Bluff sewer system is experiencing significantly high flows due to spring runoff. These flows are inundating our lift stations and threatening to overflow them.
If you have a sump pump in your basement that is discharging into the sewer system, please disconnect and re-route the discharge to your yard. We also ask that you try to reduce water usage during the peak supper hour times.
Your assistance is required as we struggle to keep up with the high flows. We anticipate these conditions to continue for the next week at least.
Please read the Frequently Asked Questions below. If you have further questions, contact the CRD's Environmental Services department at 1-800-665-1636.
SUMP PUMP DISCHARGE - Frequently Asked Questions
Some of you may utilize the use of sump pumps in your basement and your sump pump discharge may be draining into your Cariboo Regional District Sewer System. The Cariboo Regional District is urging homeowners to disconnect and reroute sump pump discharge away from sanitary sewers.
Q: Is your sump pump hose in the right place?
Place the hose so that the water from your sump pump:
- Drains away from your house, preferably onto a grassy area or non-paved surface, and
- Is absorbed on your property, or
- Drain into roadside ditch.
Tips:
- Use the water from the sump pump to water grass, shrubs and trees on your property.
- Move the hose often so that you don’t overwater any one area.
Q: What is the wrong way to place my sump pump hose?
Do not place the hose so that water from your sump pump drains:
- Onto neighbouring properties,
- Onto lanes or streets
- Onto sidewalks, or
- Into the floor drain in your home.
Q: Why can’t I drain water from my sump pump into my floor drain or sewer system?
Water that collects in your sump pit should not go in the sewer system for two reasons:
- It increases the risk of basement flooding for you and your neighbours. The sewer system is designed to manage only normal flows of wastewater, not sump pump water.
- It prevents unnecessary increases in sewer costs to you, our customer, since it is clean water and does not need to be treated. If you discharge sump pump water to the sewer, it flows to a wastewater treatment plant. This can result in extra wear and tear on equipment, and even require an increase in the size of the plant. We then recover these added treatment costs by increasing the sewer rate.
CRD developing a dedicated Emergency Operations Centre
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
The Cariboo Regional District (CRD) is expanding its Williams Lake office to incorporate a dedicated Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). Renovations will be underway this spring with the new EOC expected to be ready by the summer.
“Having an area dedicated for our Emergency Operations Centre will improve our business continuity and help us run our emergency response more effectively,” explains CRD's Chief Administrative Officer John MacLean. “Now, emergencies won’t take over the rest of our office or conflict with our regular business.”
“Our Protective Services department will have their offices in the new space and, when the rest of it isn’t being used for an EOC activation, we will be able to use it for additional work spaces and meeting rooms.”
The new EOC will be in the location the CRD currently rents to Raymond James Ltd, adjacent to the CRD Williams Lake office. The area will be redeveloped with staff offices, a large multi-purpose meeting room, expandable breakout rooms and will be connected to the rest of the CRD’s office space.
The CRD also received a $25,000 grant from UBCM’s Community Emergency Preparedness Fund to support the continued improvement of the Emergency Operations Centre. The funding will be used for portable display and conference equipment and a new mapping printer.
All the work on the new EOC will be completed by local contractors. Lauren Bros Construction Ltd. will be managing the project and hiring local sub-contractors. Harrison Design was contracted to design the new space.
The Cariboo Regional District (CRD) is expanding its Williams Lake office to incorporate a dedicated Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). Renovations will be underway this spring with the new EOC expected to be ready by the summer.
“Having an area dedicated for our Emergency Operations Centre will improve our business continuity and help us run our emergency response more effectively,” explains CRD's Chief Administrative Officer John MacLean. “Now, emergencies won’t take over the rest of our office or conflict with our regular business.”
“Our Protective Services department will have their offices in the new space and, when the rest of it isn’t being used for an EOC activation, we will be able to use it for additional work spaces and meeting rooms.”
The new EOC will be in the location the CRD currently rents to Raymond James Ltd, adjacent to the CRD Williams Lake office. The area will be redeveloped with staff offices, a large multi-purpose meeting room, expandable breakout rooms and will be connected to the rest of the CRD’s office space.
The CRD also received a $25,000 grant from UBCM’s Community Emergency Preparedness Fund to support the continued improvement of the Emergency Operations Centre. The funding will be used for portable display and conference equipment and a new mapping printer.
All the work on the new EOC will be completed by local contractors. Lauren Bros Construction Ltd. will be managing the project and hiring local sub-contractors. Harrison Design was contracted to design the new space.
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
General voting for Area F By-Election this Saturday
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
Saturday, March 30, is general voting day for the Cariboo Regional District’s Area F by-election.
Candidates Maureen LeBourdais, Brice O’Neill and Shannon Rerie are running for Electoral Area F Director. Area F residents are encouraged to get out and vote at a polling station near them.
Advance polls took place on March 20 and 25, 2019. Thirty-two voters took advantage of the advance voting opportunities.
On March 30, polling stations will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the following locations:
Cariboo Regional District (Suite D, 180 North 3rd Ave, Williams Lake)
150 Mile School (3081 Cariboo Hwy 97 S, 150 Mile House)
Horsefly Community Hall (5772 Horsefly Road, Horsefly)
Big Lake Community Hall (4056 Lakeview Road, Big Lake)
Likely School (6163 Keithley Creek Road, Likely)
There is no need to pre-register to vote, as the registration of all electors for this by-election will take place at the time of voting.
Resident electors should bring 2 pieces of identification (at least one with a signature). Picture identification is not necessary. The identification should prove both residency and identity.
Non-resident property electors should bring 2 pieces of identification (at least one with a signature) to prove identity and proof that they are entitled to register in relation to the property.
If there is more than one owner of the property, you must bring written consent from the majority of the property owners. The form required is available on the CRD website.
If you are unsure if your property falls within Electoral Area F, use the interactive map on the CRD website to search your address.
Find election information at cariboord.ca/elections. Contact the CRD for more information at 250-392-3351 or 1-800-665-1636.
Preliminary election results will be posted Saturday evening on the CRD website and Facebook page. Official election results will be announced Tuesday, April 2.
Saturday, March 30, is general voting day for the Cariboo Regional District’s Area F by-election.
Candidates Maureen LeBourdais, Brice O’Neill and Shannon Rerie are running for Electoral Area F Director. Area F residents are encouraged to get out and vote at a polling station near them.
Advance polls took place on March 20 and 25, 2019. Thirty-two voters took advantage of the advance voting opportunities.
On March 30, polling stations will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the following locations:
Cariboo Regional District (Suite D, 180 North 3rd Ave, Williams Lake)
150 Mile School (3081 Cariboo Hwy 97 S, 150 Mile House)
Horsefly Community Hall (5772 Horsefly Road, Horsefly)
Big Lake Community Hall (4056 Lakeview Road, Big Lake)
Likely School (6163 Keithley Creek Road, Likely)
There is no need to pre-register to vote, as the registration of all electors for this by-election will take place at the time of voting.
Resident electors should bring 2 pieces of identification (at least one with a signature). Picture identification is not necessary. The identification should prove both residency and identity.
Non-resident property electors should bring 2 pieces of identification (at least one with a signature) to prove identity and proof that they are entitled to register in relation to the property.
If there is more than one owner of the property, you must bring written consent from the majority of the property owners. The form required is available on the CRD website.
If you are unsure if your property falls within Electoral Area F, use the interactive map on the CRD website to search your address.
Find election information at cariboord.ca/elections. Contact the CRD for more information at 250-392-3351 or 1-800-665-1636.
Preliminary election results will be posted Saturday evening on the CRD website and Facebook page. Official election results will be announced Tuesday, April 2.
Tuesday, March 26, 2019
Sheri Sellars new Xat'sull Chief
Earlier today - the electors, both on and off-reserve, of Xat'sull First Nations voted for a new Chief for a full 4 year term. Sheri Sellars, Cheryl Chapman and Tony Mack were the candidates.
After the ballots were counted, here is the vote break-down:
1) Sheri Sellars - 61 (ELECTED)
2) Tony Mack - 44
3) Cheryl Chapman - 31
A total of 136 ballots were cast with 0 rejected ballots. For the official election declaration - click here
Congratulations to Chief-elect Sheri Sellars and thank you to Cheryl Chapman and Tony Mack for putting their name forward and look forward to working with Chief-elect Sellars.....
~SF
After the ballots were counted, here is the vote break-down:
1) Sheri Sellars - 61 (ELECTED)
2) Tony Mack - 44
3) Cheryl Chapman - 31
A total of 136 ballots were cast with 0 rejected ballots. For the official election declaration - click here
Congratulations to Chief-elect Sheri Sellars and thank you to Cheryl Chapman and Tony Mack for putting their name forward and look forward to working with Chief-elect Sellars.....
~SF
Cariboo RD offers business façade improvement grants
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
Funding is available again in the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) for business and property owners to improve their commercial building frontages. The 2019 Business Façade Improvement Program is open to all commercial businesses located within the rural areas of the Regional District.
Eligible businesses can receive a 50 per cent reimbursement to a maximum of $5,000 for exterior renovations and improvements such as façades, signage, murals, architectural features, siding, lighting and awnings. Funding will be committed on a first-come, first-serve basis (subject to project eligibility and availability of funds).
The 2019 Business Façade Improvement Program is made possible through a $20,000 grant from the Northern Development Initiative Trust.
In 2018, the CRD delivered the program in Anahim Lake, Chilanko Forks, Bouchie Lake, Forest Grove and 150 Mile House. Program applicants completed six projects representing a total investment of $21,870.55 in business façade improvement.
Business Façade Improvement Program guidelines and application forms are available online at cariboord.ca/BFI or at the CRD offices in Quesnel, Williams Lake and 100 Mile House.
The CRD program excludes businesses within municipal boundaries as they can apply with their local municipality. The City of Quesnel, City of Williams Lake, District of 100 Mile House and District of Wells are offering the program in 2019.
For more information about Northern Development Initiative Trust’s funding programs and success stories, visit northerndevelopment.bc.ca.
Funding is available again in the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) for business and property owners to improve their commercial building frontages. The 2019 Business Façade Improvement Program is open to all commercial businesses located within the rural areas of the Regional District.
Eligible businesses can receive a 50 per cent reimbursement to a maximum of $5,000 for exterior renovations and improvements such as façades, signage, murals, architectural features, siding, lighting and awnings. Funding will be committed on a first-come, first-serve basis (subject to project eligibility and availability of funds).
The 2019 Business Façade Improvement Program is made possible through a $20,000 grant from the Northern Development Initiative Trust.
In 2018, the CRD delivered the program in Anahim Lake, Chilanko Forks, Bouchie Lake, Forest Grove and 150 Mile House. Program applicants completed six projects representing a total investment of $21,870.55 in business façade improvement.
Business Façade Improvement Program guidelines and application forms are available online at cariboord.ca/BFI or at the CRD offices in Quesnel, Williams Lake and 100 Mile House.
The CRD program excludes businesses within municipal boundaries as they can apply with their local municipality. The City of Quesnel, City of Williams Lake, District of 100 Mile House and District of Wells are offering the program in 2019.
For more information about Northern Development Initiative Trust’s funding programs and success stories, visit northerndevelopment.bc.ca.
Monday, March 25, 2019
New land added to B.C.’s parks and protected areas
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
Editor's Note -- Bridge Lake Provincial Park addition (29 hectares): Located in the Cariboo region between 100 Mile House and Clearwater, Bridge Lake Provincial Park is a popular recreation area protecting a lengthy stretch of undeveloped shoreline and islands in the lake — except for one. A 29-hectare island, known as Heritage Island, will be added to the park. The total area of this park will be 434 hectares. Heritage Island was highly contentious for residents' in the Bridge Lake area... this will make those Bridge Lake residents' happy now and it was due to the actions of former Cariboo RD Area 'L' Director Brian Coakley who asked the last CRD Board to push for this.
Proposed amendments to the Protected Areas of British Columbia Act will expand B.C.’s parks and protected areas system, adding approximately 107 hectares of new land to six existing Class A parks.
To reflect ancestral connections and support reconciliation efforts, the amendments also include renaming John Dean Park to ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱/John Dean Park (pronounced Tlay-will-nook), which means “place of refuge” in the language of the W̱SÁNEĆ people.
“Giving this park a traditional Indigenous name connects us all with the original history and cultures of our province and supports ongoing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples throughout B.C.,” said the Hon. George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. “I was moved when I received a number of letters from young Indigenous students who all requested this change and expressed so clearly the meaning it would have for them. This legislation also expands our parks and strengthens protection of sensitive lands, so British Columbians will be able to enjoy beautiful natural spaces for years to come.”
The proposed additions are the result of private land acquisitions and include:
29 hectares to Bridge Lake Provincial Park in the Cariboo region;
2.5 hectares to Harmony Islands Marine Provincial Park along the Sunshine Coast;
17 hectares to Kikomun Creek Provincial Park in the Kootenays;
19 hectares to Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park in the Okanagan;
Four hectares to Purcell Wilderness Conservancy Provincial Park in the Kootenays; and
35 hectares to Syringa Provincial Park near Castlegar.
The amendments will also replace boundary descriptions with official plans for two ecological reserves (Gilnockie Creek and Trout Creek) and three Class A parks (Conkle Lake, Jewel Lake and Johnston Creek). Official plans provide a clearer description of where the parks or protected area boundaries are located, leading to less chance of unintentional trespassing.
In addition, a minor administrative correction will be made to the boundary description of McDonald Creek Provincial Park and a new official plan has been prepared for Fintry Provincial Park to reflect a boundary modification completed in spring 2018.
One of the largest park systems in North America, British Columbia has 1,033 provincial parks, recreation areas, conservancies, ecological reserves and protected areas covering more than 14 million hectares, or approximately 14.4% of the provincial land base. The majority (628) of provincial parks in the system are Class A — lands dedicated for the preservation of their natural environment and for public use and enjoyment.
Amendments to the Protected Areas of British Columbia Act are regularly required to add land to parks and conservancies, modify or correct boundaries and improve boundary descriptions.
Quick Facts:
BC Parks manages the third largest parks system in North America behind the United States’ National Park Service and Parks Canada.
B.C. has the highest percentage of its land base dedicated to protected areas of all provincial Canadian jurisdictions.
B.C.’s provincial parks receive more than 23 million visits each year.
Learn More:
For a summary of the parks and protected areas system, visit: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/about/park-designations.html
For more information about BC Parks, visit: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks
Background on this item here
Editor's Note -- Bridge Lake Provincial Park addition (29 hectares): Located in the Cariboo region between 100 Mile House and Clearwater, Bridge Lake Provincial Park is a popular recreation area protecting a lengthy stretch of undeveloped shoreline and islands in the lake — except for one. A 29-hectare island, known as Heritage Island, will be added to the park. The total area of this park will be 434 hectares. Heritage Island was highly contentious for residents' in the Bridge Lake area... this will make those Bridge Lake residents' happy now and it was due to the actions of former Cariboo RD Area 'L' Director Brian Coakley who asked the last CRD Board to push for this.
Proposed amendments to the Protected Areas of British Columbia Act will expand B.C.’s parks and protected areas system, adding approximately 107 hectares of new land to six existing Class A parks.
To reflect ancestral connections and support reconciliation efforts, the amendments also include renaming John Dean Park to ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱/John Dean Park (pronounced Tlay-will-nook), which means “place of refuge” in the language of the W̱SÁNEĆ people.
“Giving this park a traditional Indigenous name connects us all with the original history and cultures of our province and supports ongoing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples throughout B.C.,” said the Hon. George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. “I was moved when I received a number of letters from young Indigenous students who all requested this change and expressed so clearly the meaning it would have for them. This legislation also expands our parks and strengthens protection of sensitive lands, so British Columbians will be able to enjoy beautiful natural spaces for years to come.”
The proposed additions are the result of private land acquisitions and include:
29 hectares to Bridge Lake Provincial Park in the Cariboo region;
2.5 hectares to Harmony Islands Marine Provincial Park along the Sunshine Coast;
17 hectares to Kikomun Creek Provincial Park in the Kootenays;
19 hectares to Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park in the Okanagan;
Four hectares to Purcell Wilderness Conservancy Provincial Park in the Kootenays; and
35 hectares to Syringa Provincial Park near Castlegar.
The amendments will also replace boundary descriptions with official plans for two ecological reserves (Gilnockie Creek and Trout Creek) and three Class A parks (Conkle Lake, Jewel Lake and Johnston Creek). Official plans provide a clearer description of where the parks or protected area boundaries are located, leading to less chance of unintentional trespassing.
In addition, a minor administrative correction will be made to the boundary description of McDonald Creek Provincial Park and a new official plan has been prepared for Fintry Provincial Park to reflect a boundary modification completed in spring 2018.
One of the largest park systems in North America, British Columbia has 1,033 provincial parks, recreation areas, conservancies, ecological reserves and protected areas covering more than 14 million hectares, or approximately 14.4% of the provincial land base. The majority (628) of provincial parks in the system are Class A — lands dedicated for the preservation of their natural environment and for public use and enjoyment.
Amendments to the Protected Areas of British Columbia Act are regularly required to add land to parks and conservancies, modify or correct boundaries and improve boundary descriptions.
Quick Facts:
BC Parks manages the third largest parks system in North America behind the United States’ National Park Service and Parks Canada.
B.C. has the highest percentage of its land base dedicated to protected areas of all provincial Canadian jurisdictions.
B.C.’s provincial parks receive more than 23 million visits each year.
Learn More:
For a summary of the parks and protected areas system, visit: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/about/park-designations.html
For more information about BC Parks, visit: www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks
Background on this item here
Quesnel to explore new opportunities to recognize volunteers in the community
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
In 2018, the Quesnel Volunteer Citizen of the Year Committee was disbanded and City Council asked Councillor Roodenburg to explore new opportunities to recognize volunteers in the Community.
For the past 37 years, the Quesnel Volunteer Citizen of the Year program recognized and appreciated the efforts of many who willingly gave their time and talent to contribute to Quesnel’s community spirit and pride. The program recognized volunteers on the basis of their voluntary contributions to the community.
City Council felt the program didn’t honour all volunteers and it excluded volunteers such as youth, groups, corporate and volunteers that did not want to be recognized above others. City Council decided that a broader recognition event would be a great way for the community to come together and celebrate all volunteers.
“The community of Quesnel is so lucky to have amazing, hard working volunteers and our goal is to host an event that is inclusive of all our volunteers,” said Quesnel City Councillor Laurey-Anne Roodenburg. “I am currently researching how other communities recognize their volunteers and will move forward Council’s goal of hosting an event that is unique to our community.”
The City of Quesnel thanks the past Quesnel Volunteer Citizen of the Year Committee and the Quesnel Cariboo Observer for their support and hard work throughout the years
.
Send your event suggestions to Councillor Roodenburg at lroodenburg@quesnel.ca.
In 2018, the Quesnel Volunteer Citizen of the Year Committee was disbanded and City Council asked Councillor Roodenburg to explore new opportunities to recognize volunteers in the Community.
For the past 37 years, the Quesnel Volunteer Citizen of the Year program recognized and appreciated the efforts of many who willingly gave their time and talent to contribute to Quesnel’s community spirit and pride. The program recognized volunteers on the basis of their voluntary contributions to the community.
City Council felt the program didn’t honour all volunteers and it excluded volunteers such as youth, groups, corporate and volunteers that did not want to be recognized above others. City Council decided that a broader recognition event would be a great way for the community to come together and celebrate all volunteers.
“The community of Quesnel is so lucky to have amazing, hard working volunteers and our goal is to host an event that is inclusive of all our volunteers,” said Quesnel City Councillor Laurey-Anne Roodenburg. “I am currently researching how other communities recognize their volunteers and will move forward Council’s goal of hosting an event that is unique to our community.”
The City of Quesnel thanks the past Quesnel Volunteer Citizen of the Year Committee and the Quesnel Cariboo Observer for their support and hard work throughout the years
.
Send your event suggestions to Councillor Roodenburg at lroodenburg@quesnel.ca.
Smoke from pile burns to be visible near Williams Lake
Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:
BC Wildfire Service crews plan to burn piles of woody debris near Williams Lake over the next six weeks to reduce wildfire risks in the area.
Smoke and flames may be visible from Williams Lake and surrounding communities.
Firefighters could start igniting the piles as early as Monday, March 25, 2019, and end as late as April 30, 2019, depending on weather and site conditions. BC Wildfire Service personnel will be on-site with firefighting equipment to monitor and control these burns at all times.
This work is part of ongoing fuel management projects. Cariboo Fire Centre crews have already piled up the accumulated debris in the two locations listed below. By removing this material, less fuel will be available to burn in the event of a wildfire and any such fire will burn with less intensity.
Fox Mountain:
* This treatment covers about 20.4 hectares north of the Fox Mountain subdivision, north of Gannett Road and Pheasant Drive.
Airport Road:
* This treatment covers about three hectares south of Williams Lake Regional Airport, southeast of the junction of Radio Range Road and Airport Road.
These piles will only be lit if conditions are suitable and allow for quick smoke dissipation. Category 3 open fires must comply with the Environmental Management Act and the Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation. This helps minimize the amount of smoke generated.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit: www.bcwildfire.ca
Follow the latest wildfire news:
* On Twitter: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
* On Facebook: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo
BC Wildfire Service crews plan to burn piles of woody debris near Williams Lake over the next six weeks to reduce wildfire risks in the area.
Smoke and flames may be visible from Williams Lake and surrounding communities.
Firefighters could start igniting the piles as early as Monday, March 25, 2019, and end as late as April 30, 2019, depending on weather and site conditions. BC Wildfire Service personnel will be on-site with firefighting equipment to monitor and control these burns at all times.
This work is part of ongoing fuel management projects. Cariboo Fire Centre crews have already piled up the accumulated debris in the two locations listed below. By removing this material, less fuel will be available to burn in the event of a wildfire and any such fire will burn with less intensity.
Fox Mountain:
* This treatment covers about 20.4 hectares north of the Fox Mountain subdivision, north of Gannett Road and Pheasant Drive.
Airport Road:
* This treatment covers about three hectares south of Williams Lake Regional Airport, southeast of the junction of Radio Range Road and Airport Road.
These piles will only be lit if conditions are suitable and allow for quick smoke dissipation. Category 3 open fires must comply with the Environmental Management Act and the Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation. This helps minimize the amount of smoke generated.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit: www.bcwildfire.ca
Follow the latest wildfire news:
* On Twitter: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
* On Facebook: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo
Cariboo RD Area 'F' By-Election/2nd and Final Advanced Voting Day
If you live in the communities of:
* North Lakeside
* Lexington
* Sugarcane
* 140 Mile House
* 150 Mile House
* Dugan Lake
* Miocene/Spoken Lake Rd
* Horsefly
* Likely
Today is your final opportunity to cast an advanced ballot in the Cariboo Regional District's Area 'F' By-Election from 8am - 8pm today at the CRD Office in Williams Lake. In addition, casting a mail-in ballot is still an option as well.
Full details here
~SF
Child Care Planning in Cariboo-Chilcotin
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
Editor's Note -- Quesnel, in partnership with the Cariboo RD, received $50,000 while the City of Williams Lake received $25,000 from this program out of a total fund of $1.34 million. More details on this here
Local child care needs from now through 2029 are the focus of $3 million in municipal planning grants that will help ensure communities are responsive to young families.
“These planning grants will help municipalities and regional districts assess their current child care circumstances and identify what local families will need over the next decade,” said the Hon. Katrine Conroy, BC's Minister of Children and Family Development. “Local governments know best the unique needs in their communities, and working together makes us stronger and better able to respond quickly.”
Local governments will use their grants to create an inventory of existing child care spaces, identify how many child care spaces are needed now and how many will be needed over the coming years, as well as the type of child care that is needed. They will then draft an action plan to create these spaces and work with their school districts, local health authorities, Indigenous partners and other key child care stakeholders to build these plans. This information will be shared with the Ministry of Children and Family Development to help inform future provincial child care investments.
More than 70 local governments applied for up to $25,000 each to plan for the long-term child care needs of families in their communities, with some governments choosing to work collaboratively with nearby communities.
“We can’t solve the child care shortage on our own. Municipalities know the needs of families in their communities, and this insight will make sure that child care investments are strategic and new spaces are created where they are most needed,” said Katrina Chen, Minister of State for Child Care. “We know that when families have access to affordable, quality child care spaces where they live, it is good for our communities. Local businesses thrive and families have more stability.”
The funding comes from the Community Child Care Planning Program, and is the first step in a $3-million partnership launched in September 2018 between the Province and the Union of British Columbia Muncipalities (UBCM).
“This program will strengthen local government knowledge of child care needs in our communities,” said Arjun Singh, UBCM president. “I appreciate the integrated approach involving multiple stakeholders and believe there will be long-term improvements to the overall availability and quality of child care services.”
In addition to the Community Child Care Planning Program, the Province launched the $13.7-million Community Child Care Space Creation Program in September 2018 in partnership with UBCM and funded through the Canada – BC Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. This program will provide local governments with up to $1 million and support the creation of new licensed child care spaces, with a focus on infant and toddler care. Successful applicants will be announced in the coming weeks.
Quick Facts:
For Indigenous communities, the ministry is investing $3.6 million over three years to support 11 new early learning and child care planning and navigator positions to help address the specific needs of Indigenous children, families and communities throughout the province.
Under Childcare BC, the Province is investing more than $1.3 billion in child care to lay the foundation for a universal child care system. Investments in new licensed child care spaces address the Province’s commitment to making child care more accessible and complement its goals of improving supports for child care professionals and working with the sector to make child care more affordable for B.C. families.
Investing in child care and early childhood education is a shared priority between government and the BC Green Party caucus, and is part of the Confidence and Supply Agreement.
Learn More:
For more information on the partnership with UBCM, visit:
www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content?id=32AB62094D574819A92D594023C1DF23
To learn more about child care in B.C., visit: www.gov.bc.ca/childcare
Childcare BC factsheet: https://news.gov.bc.ca/18430
To view the backgrounder for this release, with the full list of approved communities and the funding they will receive, visit:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BG_UBCM_Planning__Grants_Mar_22_2019.pdf
Editor's Note -- Quesnel, in partnership with the Cariboo RD, received $50,000 while the City of Williams Lake received $25,000 from this program out of a total fund of $1.34 million. More details on this here
Local child care needs from now through 2029 are the focus of $3 million in municipal planning grants that will help ensure communities are responsive to young families.
“These planning grants will help municipalities and regional districts assess their current child care circumstances and identify what local families will need over the next decade,” said the Hon. Katrine Conroy, BC's Minister of Children and Family Development. “Local governments know best the unique needs in their communities, and working together makes us stronger and better able to respond quickly.”
Local governments will use their grants to create an inventory of existing child care spaces, identify how many child care spaces are needed now and how many will be needed over the coming years, as well as the type of child care that is needed. They will then draft an action plan to create these spaces and work with their school districts, local health authorities, Indigenous partners and other key child care stakeholders to build these plans. This information will be shared with the Ministry of Children and Family Development to help inform future provincial child care investments.
More than 70 local governments applied for up to $25,000 each to plan for the long-term child care needs of families in their communities, with some governments choosing to work collaboratively with nearby communities.
“We can’t solve the child care shortage on our own. Municipalities know the needs of families in their communities, and this insight will make sure that child care investments are strategic and new spaces are created where they are most needed,” said Katrina Chen, Minister of State for Child Care. “We know that when families have access to affordable, quality child care spaces where they live, it is good for our communities. Local businesses thrive and families have more stability.”
The funding comes from the Community Child Care Planning Program, and is the first step in a $3-million partnership launched in September 2018 between the Province and the Union of British Columbia Muncipalities (UBCM).
“This program will strengthen local government knowledge of child care needs in our communities,” said Arjun Singh, UBCM president. “I appreciate the integrated approach involving multiple stakeholders and believe there will be long-term improvements to the overall availability and quality of child care services.”
In addition to the Community Child Care Planning Program, the Province launched the $13.7-million Community Child Care Space Creation Program in September 2018 in partnership with UBCM and funded through the Canada – BC Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. This program will provide local governments with up to $1 million and support the creation of new licensed child care spaces, with a focus on infant and toddler care. Successful applicants will be announced in the coming weeks.
Quick Facts:
For Indigenous communities, the ministry is investing $3.6 million over three years to support 11 new early learning and child care planning and navigator positions to help address the specific needs of Indigenous children, families and communities throughout the province.
Under Childcare BC, the Province is investing more than $1.3 billion in child care to lay the foundation for a universal child care system. Investments in new licensed child care spaces address the Province’s commitment to making child care more accessible and complement its goals of improving supports for child care professionals and working with the sector to make child care more affordable for B.C. families.
Investing in child care and early childhood education is a shared priority between government and the BC Green Party caucus, and is part of the Confidence and Supply Agreement.
Learn More:
For more information on the partnership with UBCM, visit:
www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content?id=32AB62094D574819A92D594023C1DF23
To learn more about child care in B.C., visit: www.gov.bc.ca/childcare
Childcare BC factsheet: https://news.gov.bc.ca/18430
To view the backgrounder for this release, with the full list of approved communities and the funding they will receive, visit:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BG_UBCM_Planning__Grants_Mar_22_2019.pdf
Saturday, March 23, 2019
Province provides record funding for ground search and rescue in B.C.
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
The Province is providing $18.6 million in one-time funding to ground search and rescue (GSAR) groups throughout the province to be used over the next three years.
This funding will help the BC Search and Rescue Association (BCSARA) and GSAR groups bolster training, provide administrative support and equipment renewals. It also will support the Province and BCSARA in work to develop and implement a new governance and funding model.
“In discussions with BCSARA, I’ve heard the ground search and rescue community’s strong concerns about the need for both an immediate infusion of funding and a clearer path toward long-term sustainable funding,” said the Hon. Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “That’s why we’re providing a record-level of funding as an immediate top-up of what B.C.’s GSAR groups are already receiving, as well as establishing a joint committee to move more quickly toward developing a sustainable funding model.”
The $18.6 million represent the single largest provincial GSAR investment in B.C.’s history – a 24% increase from $5 million per year in supplemental funding announced in 2016. As well, Emergency Management BC has funding for two additional staff positions to work with BCSARA on the development and implementation of a new governance and funding model.
“On behalf of the 80 ground search and rescue groups and 2,500 members across the province, our thanks to the provincial government for the single largest influx of funding for search and rescue to date,” said Chris Kelly, president, BCSARA. “The funds will provide critical core supports over the next three years, while final details are completed in the short term on a sustainable model.”
Representatives from Emergency Management BC and BCSARA will create a partnership committee, which will set policy direction and consistent standards for search and rescue, and a management committee, which will make joint decisions on the distribution of funding to B.C.’s 80 search and rescue groups.
This new funding is in addition to funding that the Province already provides each year – $9 million in 2017-18 – to cover GSAR operational costs for deployment, as well as training and equipment costs, and the insurance and liability for the 80 groups serving B.C.
The Province’s 2,500 registered search and rescue volunteers provide a vital public safety service for citizens and visitors, responding to more than 1,600 incidents each year.
Learn More:
BC Search and Rescue Association: www.bcsara.com
PreparedBC: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/preparedbc
The Province is providing $18.6 million in one-time funding to ground search and rescue (GSAR) groups throughout the province to be used over the next three years.
This funding will help the BC Search and Rescue Association (BCSARA) and GSAR groups bolster training, provide administrative support and equipment renewals. It also will support the Province and BCSARA in work to develop and implement a new governance and funding model.
“In discussions with BCSARA, I’ve heard the ground search and rescue community’s strong concerns about the need for both an immediate infusion of funding and a clearer path toward long-term sustainable funding,” said the Hon. Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “That’s why we’re providing a record-level of funding as an immediate top-up of what B.C.’s GSAR groups are already receiving, as well as establishing a joint committee to move more quickly toward developing a sustainable funding model.”
The $18.6 million represent the single largest provincial GSAR investment in B.C.’s history – a 24% increase from $5 million per year in supplemental funding announced in 2016. As well, Emergency Management BC has funding for two additional staff positions to work with BCSARA on the development and implementation of a new governance and funding model.
“On behalf of the 80 ground search and rescue groups and 2,500 members across the province, our thanks to the provincial government for the single largest influx of funding for search and rescue to date,” said Chris Kelly, president, BCSARA. “The funds will provide critical core supports over the next three years, while final details are completed in the short term on a sustainable model.”
Representatives from Emergency Management BC and BCSARA will create a partnership committee, which will set policy direction and consistent standards for search and rescue, and a management committee, which will make joint decisions on the distribution of funding to B.C.’s 80 search and rescue groups.
This new funding is in addition to funding that the Province already provides each year – $9 million in 2017-18 – to cover GSAR operational costs for deployment, as well as training and equipment costs, and the insurance and liability for the 80 groups serving B.C.
The Province’s 2,500 registered search and rescue volunteers provide a vital public safety service for citizens and visitors, responding to more than 1,600 incidents each year.
Learn More:
BC Search and Rescue Association: www.bcsara.com
PreparedBC: http://www2.gov.bc.ca/preparedbc
EOC and Training Funds help B.C. communities
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
Editor's Note -- the Cariboo Regional District was the only local government of the Cariboo-Chilcotin to receive funds from this funding announcement. The Cariboo RD will be receiving $25,000 for EOC Equipment - more details here
Sixty-three local and regional governments and First Nations communities have been approved to receive their share of nearly $1.5 million in provincial emergency preparedness funding to support emergency operations centres (EOCs) and related emergency training.
Since the September 2017 Budget update, communities and governments throughout B.C. have received more than $20.5 million through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF). Now, another 57 applicants in 63 communities are receiving targeted funding specifically for equipment and supplies required to maintain or improve EOCs, and to enhance EOC capacity through training and exercises. People in all corners of B.C. will benefit from this funding.
“When an emergency situation happens, it’s crucial that communities have the training and resources they require to respond to the emergency quickly and efficiently,” said the Hon. Mike Farnworth, BC's Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “This investment will increase capacity and provide training for emergency operations centres throughout B.C. so that people on the ground have the tools they need to keep their loved ones and other people safe.”
Funding for the EOC and training component of the CEPF was announced at the Union of British Columbia Municipalities convention in September 2017. This funding is part of a $33.5-million plan designed to help communities prepare for, and respond to, disasters.
“Having the right tools is key when it comes to responding to and recovering from any type of disaster,” said Jennifer Rice, Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Preparedness. “Providing funding like this increases the capacity of our communities to respond in the event of an emergency and improves resiliency when it comes time to recover and rebuild.”
The CEPF is a suite of programs designed to enhance the resiliency of local governments and their residents. The Province provides the funding, which is administered by UBCM and divided into five streams:
Flood risk assessment, flood mapping and flood mitigation planning
Emergency social services
Emergency operations centres and training
Structural flood mitigation
Evacuation routes
The next deadline to apply for this program is Oct. 25, 2019, for structural flood mitigation second intake.
For a backgrounder listing the 57 proposals approved for CEPF emergency operations centre and training funds, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/CEPF_Approved_Proposals_BG.pdf
Editor's Note -- the Cariboo Regional District was the only local government of the Cariboo-Chilcotin to receive funds from this funding announcement. The Cariboo RD will be receiving $25,000 for EOC Equipment - more details here
Sixty-three local and regional governments and First Nations communities have been approved to receive their share of nearly $1.5 million in provincial emergency preparedness funding to support emergency operations centres (EOCs) and related emergency training.
Since the September 2017 Budget update, communities and governments throughout B.C. have received more than $20.5 million through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF). Now, another 57 applicants in 63 communities are receiving targeted funding specifically for equipment and supplies required to maintain or improve EOCs, and to enhance EOC capacity through training and exercises. People in all corners of B.C. will benefit from this funding.
“When an emergency situation happens, it’s crucial that communities have the training and resources they require to respond to the emergency quickly and efficiently,” said the Hon. Mike Farnworth, BC's Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “This investment will increase capacity and provide training for emergency operations centres throughout B.C. so that people on the ground have the tools they need to keep their loved ones and other people safe.”
Funding for the EOC and training component of the CEPF was announced at the Union of British Columbia Municipalities convention in September 2017. This funding is part of a $33.5-million plan designed to help communities prepare for, and respond to, disasters.
“Having the right tools is key when it comes to responding to and recovering from any type of disaster,” said Jennifer Rice, Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Preparedness. “Providing funding like this increases the capacity of our communities to respond in the event of an emergency and improves resiliency when it comes time to recover and rebuild.”
The CEPF is a suite of programs designed to enhance the resiliency of local governments and their residents. The Province provides the funding, which is administered by UBCM and divided into five streams:
Flood risk assessment, flood mapping and flood mitigation planning
Emergency social services
Emergency operations centres and training
Structural flood mitigation
Evacuation routes
The next deadline to apply for this program is Oct. 25, 2019, for structural flood mitigation second intake.
For a backgrounder listing the 57 proposals approved for CEPF emergency operations centre and training funds, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/CEPF_Approved_Proposals_BG.pdf
Friday, March 22, 2019
CRD Board Highlights - March 22nd mtg
Present: Chair M. Wagner/Vice-Chair J. Massier and Directors M. Sjostrom, S. Forseth, A. Richmond, G. Kirby, C. Mernett, W. Macdonald, G. Fourchalk, W. Cobb, M. Campsall, Area 'B' Alternate Director T. Armstrong, Area 'F' Alternate Director J. Darney, Area 'I' Alternate Director M. Glassford and Quesnel Alternate Director L. Roodenburg
Meeting called to order at 10:21am
The Chair recognized today's Board meeting is being held on traditional Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) territory and welcomed Alternate Directors Armstrong, Darney, Glassford and Roodenburg (Areas B, F, I and City of Quesnel) to today's Board meeting
Meeting Agenda adopted
Minutes of the Board meeting held February 8th, 2019 were received/adopted
Memorandum of Business - Delegations was received
Business:
Development Services:
1) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5180, 2018 (Area H/Collinson) with adoption subject to:
a) Off-street parking for two vehicles per duplex unit must be provided
b) The applicants must undertake site assessment by a qualified professional to ensure sustainable onsite sewage system and safe, potable drinking water for the existing two duplexes prior to rezoning adoption
2) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to Williams Lake Fringe Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5195, 2019 and Williams Lake Fringe and 150 Mile House Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5196, 2019 (Area E/Stewart-Jones)
3) The Board adopted Central Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5133, 2018 (Area F/Young-Alexander)
4) The Board approved Development Permit #4-2019 (Area F/ Zirnhelt Timber Frames Ltd), subject to conditions outlined in the Staff report dated March 14th, 2019
5) The Board received the Building Inspection Statistics Report, Municipalities Building Inspection Statistics Report and the Inspection Activity Report for February 2019
Environmental Services:
1) The Board received a March 6, 2019 letter from the South Cariboo Sustainability Society concerning the use of single-use plastics and agreed to refer:
a) to Policy Committee -- a policy that the CRD as an organization could introduce to reduce the use of single-use plastics and disposable items in the day-to-day operations of the CRD. Board divided - Approved by the following vote:
Affirmative - Chair Wagner; Directors Sjostrom, Massier, Richmond, Kirby, Mernett, Macdonald, Fourchalk, Cobb, Campsall and Alternate Directors Armstrong, Darney, Glassford and Roodenburg
Negative - Director S. Forseth
b) to Solid Waste Management Committee (SWMC) -- South Cariboo Sustainability Society on the Advisory Committee for the upcoming Solid Waste Management planning process and prepare a list to individuals or groups to sit on the Solid Waste Plan Advisory Committee for consideration of the SWMC
2) The Board endorsed a Staff recommendation to send a letter to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, the Honourable George Heyman, requesting improvements to the Recycling Regulation - Staff report here
Community Services:
1) The Board received a report of the Manager of Community Services regarding the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks 2019-2023 capital plan and the potential addition of handrails in the West Fraser Centre in 2019 and referred it back to the North Cariboo Joint Committee for further consideration
Communications:
1) The Board received a report of the Manager of Communications in regards to 2019 Information Fairs
Finance:
1) The Board received/ratified the Monthly Expenditures Board Summary Report and Mastercard Summary Report for the month of February 2019, in the amount of $2,326,645.84
Administration:
1) The Board received a letter from ABC Communications in regard to their application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust for a regional LTE project and that the letter of support be authorized as requested
The Chair informed the Board that the former Broadband Standing Committee will be re-established with Directors Forseth. Kirby and the new Area 'F' Director, following the March 30th Area F By-Election, being appointed to the Committee and Director Forseth being designated as Chair of the Committee
2) The Board agreed to delete the following Board Policies:
a) Policy #98-3-24(3) Public Consultation Prior to Referendum
b) Policy #91-4-4(m) Distribution of Revenue and Expense Statements
c) Policy #99-11-20(11) Taxation Goal
d) Policy #96-46(4) Parcel Tax/Boundary Amendment
e) Policy #99-10-11(13) Public Input – Groups, Societies and Other Organizations
and that Policy #91-4-4(q) Kilometrage Rates be amended by deleting the word, “Directors” in the policy.
3) The Board re-appointed Area 'C' Director John Massier to the NCLGA Board for the 2019-20 term
4) The Board accepted an invitation from the Tsilhqot’in National Government to meet and discuss items of common interest
5) The Board received the 'Consent Calendar', as of March 22nd, 2019
6) The Board received a letter from Trish Balcaen, Assistant Deputy Minister, Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation regarding the wording of Section 3.4.0 of the Northern Secwepemc te Qelmucw (NStQ) treaty agreement-in-principle
7) The Board deferred receiving a letter from UBCM respecting 2018 Cariboo RD UBCM Resolutions to the April meeting
8) The Board received the following NCLGA/UBCM/FCM Items:
a) City of Victoria Council Motion - Observed Inhalation Sites for Overdose Prevention
b) City of Victoria Council Motion - Safer Drug Supply to Save Lives in British Columbia
c) City of Victoria Council Motion - Shifting Investment to Low-Emission Transportation
Committee or Commission Minutes and Recommendations:
1) The Board received the following Committee or Commission Meeting Minutes:
a) North Cariboo Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel Minutes - February 26, 2019
b) Central Cariboo Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel Minutes - February 27, 2019
c) Central Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus Minutes - February 27, 2019
d) Central Cariboo Joint Committee Minutes - February 27, 2019
e) Cariboo RD Board's Committee of the Whole - February 28, 2019
f) North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus Minutes - March 12, 2019
2) The Board endorsed recommendations from CRD Committee or Commission Meetings, as follows:
a) Committee of the Whole Meeting held February 28th:
That staff bring a new Grants for Assistance Policy forward to the Policy Committee, taking into consideration the Committee of the Whole discussion.
b) North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus Meeting of March 12th:
That $6,000 be allocated from the 2019 North Cariboo Economic Development function budget to be in addition to the $6,000 provided to the group in 2017 towards a $12,000 Avro level sponsorship for the Skyfest 2019 event
Corporate Bylaws:
1) The following bylaws were given 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption:
a) Alexis Creek Sewer Management Amendment Bylaw No. 5201, 2019
b) Red Bluff/Dragon Lake Sewer Management Amendment Bylaw No. 5202, 2019
c) Cariboo Regional District 2019 Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 5203, 2019
d) Anahim Lake Airport Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 5204, 2019
Director's Requests:
1) At the request of Area 'H' Director Margo Wagner -- the Board approved up to $300 from the Area 'H' Director Initiative Fund to cover the costs of an community meeting to be held in Forest Grove
2) At the request of Area 'G' Director Al Richmond -- the Board approved submitting the following late NCLGA Resolution at the 2019 NCLGA Convention in Williams Lake:
WHEREAS natural disasters pose an increasing risk to the economic, social, and environmental well-being of British Columbians;
AND WHEREAS the provincial government is taking action to improve resilience by strengthening disaster preparedness and disaster risk governance in the context of climate change;
AND WHEREAS the sharing of integrated asset data, information, and knowledge across all sectors is key to improving emergency management and resiliency planning in BC:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia be urged to take a strong leadership role and provide long-term sufficient funding and resources to increase the coordination, assembly, and access of asset data, information, and knowledge across multiple levels and sectors of government and stakeholders (including First Nations, local governments, provincial and federal government agencies, qualified professionals, and industry sectors)
3) At the request of Area 'I' Alternate Director Mary Glassford for Area 'I' Director Jim Glassford -- the Board approved in principle submiting a late NCLGA Resolution in respect of provincial funding for Search and Rescue Groups in BC, directed Staff to draft a NCLGA Resolution and bring it forward to the April Board Meeting for consideration
The Chair thanked the retiring CFO (Scott Reid), on behalf of the Board
The CAO introduced the new Manager of Financial Services to the Board
Meeting recessed for lunch at 11:45am
Meeting resumed at 12:31pm
Closed Board Session:
At 12:33pm -- the Board convened an In-Camera Session as per Section 90(1a - appointment) of the Community Charter
Resumption of Open Board Session:
At 12:35pm -- the Board resumed its' Open Meeting
Directors' reported on their activities in their respective Electoral Area or Municipality
The Board adjourned at 1:02pm
Meeting called to order at 10:21am
The Chair recognized today's Board meeting is being held on traditional Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) territory and welcomed Alternate Directors Armstrong, Darney, Glassford and Roodenburg (Areas B, F, I and City of Quesnel) to today's Board meeting
Meeting Agenda adopted
Minutes of the Board meeting held February 8th, 2019 were received/adopted
Memorandum of Business - Delegations was received
Business:
Development Services:
1) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5180, 2018 (Area H/Collinson) with adoption subject to:
a) Off-street parking for two vehicles per duplex unit must be provided
b) The applicants must undertake site assessment by a qualified professional to ensure sustainable onsite sewage system and safe, potable drinking water for the existing two duplexes prior to rezoning adoption
2) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to Williams Lake Fringe Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5195, 2019 and Williams Lake Fringe and 150 Mile House Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5196, 2019 (Area E/Stewart-Jones)
3) The Board adopted Central Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5133, 2018 (Area F/Young-Alexander)
4) The Board approved Development Permit #4-2019 (Area F/ Zirnhelt Timber Frames Ltd), subject to conditions outlined in the Staff report dated March 14th, 2019
5) The Board received the Building Inspection Statistics Report, Municipalities Building Inspection Statistics Report and the Inspection Activity Report for February 2019
Environmental Services:
1) The Board received a March 6, 2019 letter from the South Cariboo Sustainability Society concerning the use of single-use plastics and agreed to refer:
a) to Policy Committee -- a policy that the CRD as an organization could introduce to reduce the use of single-use plastics and disposable items in the day-to-day operations of the CRD. Board divided - Approved by the following vote:
Affirmative - Chair Wagner; Directors Sjostrom, Massier, Richmond, Kirby, Mernett, Macdonald, Fourchalk, Cobb, Campsall and Alternate Directors Armstrong, Darney, Glassford and Roodenburg
Negative - Director S. Forseth
b) to Solid Waste Management Committee (SWMC) -- South Cariboo Sustainability Society on the Advisory Committee for the upcoming Solid Waste Management planning process and prepare a list to individuals or groups to sit on the Solid Waste Plan Advisory Committee for consideration of the SWMC
2) The Board endorsed a Staff recommendation to send a letter to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, the Honourable George Heyman, requesting improvements to the Recycling Regulation - Staff report here
Community Services:
1) The Board received a report of the Manager of Community Services regarding the North Cariboo Recreation and Parks 2019-2023 capital plan and the potential addition of handrails in the West Fraser Centre in 2019 and referred it back to the North Cariboo Joint Committee for further consideration
Communications:
1) The Board received a report of the Manager of Communications in regards to 2019 Information Fairs
Finance:
1) The Board received/ratified the Monthly Expenditures Board Summary Report and Mastercard Summary Report for the month of February 2019, in the amount of $2,326,645.84
Administration:
1) The Board received a letter from ABC Communications in regard to their application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust for a regional LTE project and that the letter of support be authorized as requested
The Chair informed the Board that the former Broadband Standing Committee will be re-established with Directors Forseth. Kirby and the new Area 'F' Director, following the March 30th Area F By-Election, being appointed to the Committee and Director Forseth being designated as Chair of the Committee
2) The Board agreed to delete the following Board Policies:
a) Policy #98-3-24(3) Public Consultation Prior to Referendum
b) Policy #91-4-4(m) Distribution of Revenue and Expense Statements
c) Policy #99-11-20(11) Taxation Goal
d) Policy #96-46(4) Parcel Tax/Boundary Amendment
e) Policy #99-10-11(13) Public Input – Groups, Societies and Other Organizations
and that Policy #91-4-4(q) Kilometrage Rates be amended by deleting the word, “Directors” in the policy.
3) The Board re-appointed Area 'C' Director John Massier to the NCLGA Board for the 2019-20 term
4) The Board accepted an invitation from the Tsilhqot’in National Government to meet and discuss items of common interest
5) The Board received the 'Consent Calendar', as of March 22nd, 2019
6) The Board received a letter from Trish Balcaen, Assistant Deputy Minister, Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation regarding the wording of Section 3.4.0 of the Northern Secwepemc te Qelmucw (NStQ) treaty agreement-in-principle
7) The Board deferred receiving a letter from UBCM respecting 2018 Cariboo RD UBCM Resolutions to the April meeting
8) The Board received the following NCLGA/UBCM/FCM Items:
a) City of Victoria Council Motion - Observed Inhalation Sites for Overdose Prevention
b) City of Victoria Council Motion - Safer Drug Supply to Save Lives in British Columbia
c) City of Victoria Council Motion - Shifting Investment to Low-Emission Transportation
Committee or Commission Minutes and Recommendations:
1) The Board received the following Committee or Commission Meeting Minutes:
a) North Cariboo Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel Minutes - February 26, 2019
b) Central Cariboo Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel Minutes - February 27, 2019
c) Central Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus Minutes - February 27, 2019
d) Central Cariboo Joint Committee Minutes - February 27, 2019
e) Cariboo RD Board's Committee of the Whole - February 28, 2019
f) North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus Minutes - March 12, 2019
2) The Board endorsed recommendations from CRD Committee or Commission Meetings, as follows:
a) Committee of the Whole Meeting held February 28th:
That staff bring a new Grants for Assistance Policy forward to the Policy Committee, taking into consideration the Committee of the Whole discussion.
b) North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus Meeting of March 12th:
That $6,000 be allocated from the 2019 North Cariboo Economic Development function budget to be in addition to the $6,000 provided to the group in 2017 towards a $12,000 Avro level sponsorship for the Skyfest 2019 event
Corporate Bylaws:
1) The following bylaws were given 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption:
a) Alexis Creek Sewer Management Amendment Bylaw No. 5201, 2019
b) Red Bluff/Dragon Lake Sewer Management Amendment Bylaw No. 5202, 2019
c) Cariboo Regional District 2019 Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 5203, 2019
d) Anahim Lake Airport Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 5204, 2019
Director's Requests:
1) At the request of Area 'H' Director Margo Wagner -- the Board approved up to $300 from the Area 'H' Director Initiative Fund to cover the costs of an community meeting to be held in Forest Grove
2) At the request of Area 'G' Director Al Richmond -- the Board approved submitting the following late NCLGA Resolution at the 2019 NCLGA Convention in Williams Lake:
WHEREAS natural disasters pose an increasing risk to the economic, social, and environmental well-being of British Columbians;
AND WHEREAS the provincial government is taking action to improve resilience by strengthening disaster preparedness and disaster risk governance in the context of climate change;
AND WHEREAS the sharing of integrated asset data, information, and knowledge across all sectors is key to improving emergency management and resiliency planning in BC:
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Province of British Columbia be urged to take a strong leadership role and provide long-term sufficient funding and resources to increase the coordination, assembly, and access of asset data, information, and knowledge across multiple levels and sectors of government and stakeholders (including First Nations, local governments, provincial and federal government agencies, qualified professionals, and industry sectors)
3) At the request of Area 'I' Alternate Director Mary Glassford for Area 'I' Director Jim Glassford -- the Board approved in principle submiting a late NCLGA Resolution in respect of provincial funding for Search and Rescue Groups in BC, directed Staff to draft a NCLGA Resolution and bring it forward to the April Board Meeting for consideration
The Chair thanked the retiring CFO (Scott Reid), on behalf of the Board
The CAO introduced the new Manager of Financial Services to the Board
Meeting recessed for lunch at 11:45am
Meeting resumed at 12:31pm
Closed Board Session:
At 12:33pm -- the Board convened an In-Camera Session as per Section 90(1a - appointment) of the Community Charter
Resumption of Open Board Session:
At 12:35pm -- the Board resumed its' Open Meeting
Directors' reported on their activities in their respective Electoral Area or Municipality
The Board adjourned at 1:02pm
CCRHD Board Highlights - March 22nd mtg
Present: Vice Chair A. Richmond and Directors M. Sjostrom, J. Massier, S. Forseth, M. Wagner, G. Kirby, C. Mernett, W. Macdonald, G. Fourchalk, W. Cobb, M. Campsall, Area 'B' Alternate Director T. Armstrong, Area 'F' Alternate Director J. Darney, Area 'I' Alternate Director M. Glassford and Quesnel Alternate Director L.Roodenburg
Meeting called to order at 9:30am
Meeting Agenda adopted
Minutes of the Feb 8th CCRHD Board meeting were received/adopted
The Board received the Memorandum of Business - Delegations as of March 22nd, 2019
The Vice-Chair welcomed Alternate Directors Armstrong, Darney, Glassford and Roodenburg (Areas B, F, I and Quesnel) to today's CCRHD Board Meeting
Business:
1) The Board received the Committee of the Whole meeting minutes of February 28th and endorsed one recommendation from that meeting, as follows:
That the Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District's 40% funding contribution for major capital projects be reaffirmed with respect to the Cariboo Memorial Hospital and GR Baker Memorial Hospital projects.
2) The Board received the Interior Health Authority Capital Projects and Planning Status Report, as of January 2019
3) The Board received a Northern Health press release regarding Imagine Grants - Health Happens in Community
4) The Board received a news release from Interior Health regarding a single case of measles confirmed in Interior Health (100 Mile House)
5) The Board received an invitation to the CCRHD to appoint a representative to participate on the Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice Recruitment and Retention Committee and agreed to appoint Director Richmond to the Committee as a 'CCRHD Board Liaison'
6) The Board received the Public Service Announcement from Interior Health, dated February 27, 2019, regarding the temporary suspension of maternity services at Cariboo Memorial Hospital
7) The Board received a report of the Chief Financial Officer concerning regarding CCRHD capital funding for the Cariboo Memorial Hospital renovation project
8) The Board received a request from Interior Health respecting Financial Recruitment Incentives to temporarily recruit maternity nurses to Cariboo Memorial Hospital from April/May 2019 and agreed to request the Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice to self-finance this one-time request...
Opposed - Area 'D' Director Forseth and 100 Mile House Director Campsall
9) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings/Adoption to Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District 2019-2023 Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 158, 2019
Board recessed at 10:19am
Board resumed at 1:02pm
The Board resumed discussion on Item #8 above and regarding CCRHD Tax Rates
No further resolutions resulted
The Board adjourned at 1:12pm
Meeting called to order at 9:30am
Meeting Agenda adopted
Minutes of the Feb 8th CCRHD Board meeting were received/adopted
The Board received the Memorandum of Business - Delegations as of March 22nd, 2019
The Vice-Chair welcomed Alternate Directors Armstrong, Darney, Glassford and Roodenburg (Areas B, F, I and Quesnel) to today's CCRHD Board Meeting
Business:
1) The Board received the Committee of the Whole meeting minutes of February 28th and endorsed one recommendation from that meeting, as follows:
That the Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District's 40% funding contribution for major capital projects be reaffirmed with respect to the Cariboo Memorial Hospital and GR Baker Memorial Hospital projects.
2) The Board received the Interior Health Authority Capital Projects and Planning Status Report, as of January 2019
3) The Board received a Northern Health press release regarding Imagine Grants - Health Happens in Community
4) The Board received a news release from Interior Health regarding a single case of measles confirmed in Interior Health (100 Mile House)
5) The Board received an invitation to the CCRHD to appoint a representative to participate on the Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice Recruitment and Retention Committee and agreed to appoint Director Richmond to the Committee as a 'CCRHD Board Liaison'
6) The Board received the Public Service Announcement from Interior Health, dated February 27, 2019, regarding the temporary suspension of maternity services at Cariboo Memorial Hospital
7) The Board received a report of the Chief Financial Officer concerning regarding CCRHD capital funding for the Cariboo Memorial Hospital renovation project
8) The Board received a request from Interior Health respecting Financial Recruitment Incentives to temporarily recruit maternity nurses to Cariboo Memorial Hospital from April/May 2019 and agreed to request the Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice to self-finance this one-time request...
Opposed - Area 'D' Director Forseth and 100 Mile House Director Campsall
9) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings/Adoption to Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District 2019-2023 Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 158, 2019
Board recessed at 10:19am
Board resumed at 1:02pm
The Board resumed discussion on Item #8 above and regarding CCRHD Tax Rates
No further resolutions resulted
The Board adjourned at 1:12pm
Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of March 25-29
The following local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin are meeting next week, as follows:
Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 26th, 2019 at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue). On the Agenda:
* Proposed 2019 Provisional Budget for the District of Wells - Public Input/Approval
* Letter to Mayor and Council from Robert Machan re: homeless cats
View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 26th, 2019 at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
* Delegation: Jason Fisher, Pinnacle Pellet re Support for Air Amendment Application
* 2019-2023 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2306 -- 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings
* Mayor Cobb's Travel to BC Mayor's Caucus - April 1, 2019
* Building Bylaw No. 2274 - Open House Comments & Third Reading
* Various Land Use Matters
* Airfield Electrical Rehabilitation Project - Consulting Services
* Farmer's Market Sign - 176 Fourth Avenue North (Kiwanis Park) - Approval
* Various Bylaws for 3rd Reading or Adoption
View the full Agenda here
At 7pm --- a Public Hearing will be held in respect of Bylaw #2301 (zoning amendment for property at 911 Proctor Street). View the Public Hearing Agenda here
Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 26th, 2019 at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue). On the Agenda:
* Proposed 2019 Provisional Budget for the District of Wells - Public Input/Approval
* Letter to Mayor and Council from Robert Machan re: homeless cats
View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, March 26th, 2019 at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
* Delegation: Jason Fisher, Pinnacle Pellet re Support for Air Amendment Application
* 2019-2023 Financial Plan Bylaw No. 2306 -- 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings
* Mayor Cobb's Travel to BC Mayor's Caucus - April 1, 2019
* Building Bylaw No. 2274 - Open House Comments & Third Reading
* Various Land Use Matters
* Airfield Electrical Rehabilitation Project - Consulting Services
* Farmer's Market Sign - 176 Fourth Avenue North (Kiwanis Park) - Approval
* Various Bylaws for 3rd Reading or Adoption
View the full Agenda here
At 7pm --- a Public Hearing will be held in respect of Bylaw #2301 (zoning amendment for property at 911 Proctor Street). View the Public Hearing Agenda here
Thursday, March 21, 2019
Day of Reconciliation Holiday welcomed by NStQ Chiefs!
Courtesy of the Northern Shuswap te Qelmucw Chiefs:
Updates on local roads in McLeese Lake/Soda Creek Valley areas
Yesterday afternoon - I met with MOTI Staff in Quesnel in regards to local roads concerns' in the McLeese Lake or Soda Creek Valley areas. Following that meeting, I can advise of the following:
If you have any questions or want me to look into further local roads in Area 'D' (Commodore Heights to Macalister) - please reach to me on Facebook - click here, via email at sforseth@cariboord.ca , via phone/text at 250-267-6725
Thanks,
SF
* Robertson Road -- this road will be totally re-done with a gravel base NO LATER than June 30th but work to commence as soon as the road bans come off (it is hoped that this will occur in mid to late April)Thank you to MOTI Staff in Quesnel for the opportunity to meet and discuss local roads concerns in the McLeese Lake/Soda Creek Valley areas....
* Beaver Lake Road -- immediate priority: dust control as soon as road bans come off. Long term priority: re-do road base via gravel (expect to occur over a 3-5 year time frame)
* Roth Road -- Ministry is aware of challenges of this road and will work with local residents' in finding both a short term and long term solution....
* Forglen Road -- both Ministry of Transportation/BC Wildfire Service have public safety concerns about this road. This road is far exceeding what was envisioned when it was built in the 1970's (at the time, put in for summer residents' now Forglen Road has year round residents'). Ministry will look into options and engage the public when a proposal is available for presentation
* Highway 97 South upgrade from Alexandria through the McLeese Lake and Duckworth areas -- project is proceeding and currently undergoing First Nation consultations. Next step would be general public consultation. This project is a number of years away before it can be tendered for construction
* The culvert underneath Forglen Road that carries water from McLeese Lake into McLeese Creek will be replaced in Spring 2020 (engineering work to occur this work)… in addition, the Ministry of Transportation will be looking at the culvert underneath Highway 97 between the general store and the turnoff from Highway 97 to Beaver Lake Road/Gibraltar Mine Road....
* Those who reside near Macalister where the CN Rail overpass is -- the Ministry is aware of road issues (flooding, etc) in this location and will be looking further into this in 2019...
If you have any questions or want me to look into further local roads in Area 'D' (Commodore Heights to Macalister) - please reach to me on Facebook - click here, via email at sforseth@cariboord.ca , via phone/text at 250-267-6725
Thanks,
SF
Wednesday, March 20, 2019
Quesnel’s Forestry Initiatives Program is up and running!
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
The City of Quesnel is pleased to announce its new Forestry Initiatives Program, that began in January of 2019, is up and running!
The Forestry Initiatives Program was created to address the multiple challenges facing our community at this time - mainly protecting our communities from wildfire, rehabilitating the land after wildfire, and finding ways of innovating the forest products manufacturing sector.
“Quesnel is one of the most forest dependent communities in BC, so it’s important that the City is taking an active role in advancing the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP), working with the provincial government on rehabilitating the landscape, and working with the forest industry to diversify the economy,” states Erin Robinson, City of Quesnel Forestry Initiatives’ Manager. “This does not mean stepping back from forestry, but rather finding innovative ways to utilize the available wood-fibre and types of manufacturing potential already here in the area.”
The Forestry Initiatives Program emerged from the Future of Forestry Think Tank process, which brought together 65 technical experts in May of 2018 with a wide range of knowledge and expertise to discuss land management and innovation in manufacturing of wood.
The objective of the program is to build ‘home-grown’ solutions for Quesnel during it’s time of transition to be innovative, resilient and help grow a sustainable future for everyone who chooses to call the area home.
The Forestry Initiatives Program is carrying out the following:
• Protecting homes, businesses and infrastructure through implementing our CWPP on publicly owned and Crown lands
• Working with the provincial government and academic partners to restore the land after insect outbreaks, fires and the resulting floods - figuring out news ways to manage for ecosystem resilience
• Encouraging home and business owners to FireSmart their properties
• Researching ways to diversify the wood product manufacturing sector
• Constructing the new Forestry Innovation Centre
• Advocating for a community forest
The Forestry Initiatives Manger, Erin Robinson, and the Forestry Initiatives Coordinator, Taddea Kunkel, operate the Forestry Initiatives Program. This program is made possible through funding provided by the City of Quesnel, BC Rural Dividend, Community Resiliency Investment Program, Forestry Enhancement Society of British Columbia, and Cariboo Strong.
More information about the program, as well as updates, can be found on the City’s website under www.quesnel.ca/city-hall/major-initiatives
The City of Quesnel is pleased to announce its new Forestry Initiatives Program, that began in January of 2019, is up and running!
The Forestry Initiatives Program was created to address the multiple challenges facing our community at this time - mainly protecting our communities from wildfire, rehabilitating the land after wildfire, and finding ways of innovating the forest products manufacturing sector.
“Quesnel is one of the most forest dependent communities in BC, so it’s important that the City is taking an active role in advancing the Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP), working with the provincial government on rehabilitating the landscape, and working with the forest industry to diversify the economy,” states Erin Robinson, City of Quesnel Forestry Initiatives’ Manager. “This does not mean stepping back from forestry, but rather finding innovative ways to utilize the available wood-fibre and types of manufacturing potential already here in the area.”
The Forestry Initiatives Program emerged from the Future of Forestry Think Tank process, which brought together 65 technical experts in May of 2018 with a wide range of knowledge and expertise to discuss land management and innovation in manufacturing of wood.
The objective of the program is to build ‘home-grown’ solutions for Quesnel during it’s time of transition to be innovative, resilient and help grow a sustainable future for everyone who chooses to call the area home.
The Forestry Initiatives Program is carrying out the following:
• Protecting homes, businesses and infrastructure through implementing our CWPP on publicly owned and Crown lands
• Working with the provincial government and academic partners to restore the land after insect outbreaks, fires and the resulting floods - figuring out news ways to manage for ecosystem resilience
• Encouraging home and business owners to FireSmart their properties
• Researching ways to diversify the wood product manufacturing sector
• Constructing the new Forestry Innovation Centre
• Advocating for a community forest
The Forestry Initiatives Manger, Erin Robinson, and the Forestry Initiatives Coordinator, Taddea Kunkel, operate the Forestry Initiatives Program. This program is made possible through funding provided by the City of Quesnel, BC Rural Dividend, Community Resiliency Investment Program, Forestry Enhancement Society of British Columbia, and Cariboo Strong.
More information about the program, as well as updates, can be found on the City’s website under www.quesnel.ca/city-hall/major-initiatives
Cariboo RD Area 'F' By-Election -- 1st Advanced Voting Opportunity
If you reside in the communities of:
* North Lakeside
* Lexington
* Sugar Cane
* 140 Mile House
* 150 Mile House
* Miocene
* Horsefly
* Likely
Today is your first opportunity to cast an advanced ballot in the Cariboo Regional District's Area F By-Election from 8am - 8pm in the CRD Office in Williams Lake (180D North 3rd Avenue in Williams Lake, across from 7-11)
Full details on what you need to know can be viewed here
~SF
* North Lakeside
* Lexington
* Sugar Cane
* 140 Mile House
* 150 Mile House
* Miocene
* Horsefly
* Likely
Today is your first opportunity to cast an advanced ballot in the Cariboo Regional District's Area F By-Election from 8am - 8pm in the CRD Office in Williams Lake (180D North 3rd Avenue in Williams Lake, across from 7-11)
Full details on what you need to know can be viewed here
~SF
Tuesday, March 19, 2019
City of Williams Lake Hires Corporate Engagement Officer
Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:
The City of Williams Lake is pleased to announce the hiring of Guillermo Angel as the City’s Corporate Engagement Officer. Guillermo will be responsible for implementing effective communications strategies, sourcing and securing grant funding for the City and providing official communication channels for Mayor and Council, as well as general digital media management responsibilities.
The addition of the Corporate Engagement Officer position fills an important vacancy in the City and ensures that there is a dedicated individual to provide consistent and timely communication to all of the City’s citizens, businesses and strategic partners. Furthermore, the City maintains a commitment to its Economic Development Strategy and this position will help further enhance that strategy through the focus on securing grants and funding to facilitate future economic development.
Guillermo joins the City of Williams Lake from Kelowna where he was involved in a number of organizations at a leadership level, assisting with the implementation of successful communications strategies and directives. He brings experience in financial management and project execution. He has a passion for his community, the outdoors and spending quality time with his family.
“We are excited to bring Guillermo on board; he will bring with him a renewed communications strategy for the City and a diversified approach to relationship development with our strategic partners across the city and province,” said Milo Macdonald, Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Williams Lake.
The position’s effective start date was Monday, March 18th, 2019
The City of Williams Lake is pleased to announce the hiring of Guillermo Angel as the City’s Corporate Engagement Officer. Guillermo will be responsible for implementing effective communications strategies, sourcing and securing grant funding for the City and providing official communication channels for Mayor and Council, as well as general digital media management responsibilities.
The addition of the Corporate Engagement Officer position fills an important vacancy in the City and ensures that there is a dedicated individual to provide consistent and timely communication to all of the City’s citizens, businesses and strategic partners. Furthermore, the City maintains a commitment to its Economic Development Strategy and this position will help further enhance that strategy through the focus on securing grants and funding to facilitate future economic development.
Guillermo joins the City of Williams Lake from Kelowna where he was involved in a number of organizations at a leadership level, assisting with the implementation of successful communications strategies and directives. He brings experience in financial management and project execution. He has a passion for his community, the outdoors and spending quality time with his family.
“We are excited to bring Guillermo on board; he will bring with him a renewed communications strategy for the City and a diversified approach to relationship development with our strategic partners across the city and province,” said Milo Macdonald, Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Williams Lake.
The position’s effective start date was Monday, March 18th, 2019
B.C. government gets ready for 2019 wildfire season
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
In the wake of two of the worst wildfire seasons on record, the British Columbia government is stepping up with more fire prevention strategies, programs and funding to help keep British Columbians and their communities safe this summer.
“We’ve taken a hard look at additional steps we can take to not only prevent wildfires, but also enhance our response on the ground during wildfire season,” said the Hon. Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. “Our base budget for wildfire spending has increased by 58%, and we’re accelerating prevention and prevention awareness programs.”
As part of Budget 2019, wildfire management funding has increased by 58% to $101 million annually. The additional funding will help the BC Wildfire Service add to its fire response capabilities – adding more crews, enhancing aerial capacity and including innovative technology – and spending more on fire prevention activities, including a more comprehensive prescribed burning program backed by an initial $10 million.
New technology, including night vision goggles to better aid in early detection and response, will also be piloted this summer.
Other important advances over the past year include building stronger working relationships with communities, First Nations, the forest industry and other stakeholders. The changes support the recommendations of the independent Abbott-Chapman report.
Wildfire prevention funding initiatives include the following:
The $50-million Community Resiliency Investment program was established in September 2018 to help local governments and First Nations lower wildfire risks around their communities. As part of Budget 2019, an additional $10 million has been added, for a total of $60 million. Results from the first application intake will be announced by the end of March 2019.
The B.C. government has increased funding under the Forest Carbon Initiative by $13 million over the next three years, allowing it to take advantage of matching funding from the federal government. This money is used for reforestation and restoration initiatives that not only capture carbon, but also reduce wildfire risks. This funding is in addition to the $235 million provided to the Forest Enhancement Society of B.C., of which nearly $180 million has been allocated.
Follow the latest wildfire news:
On Twitter: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
On Facebook: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo
Backgrounder here
In the wake of two of the worst wildfire seasons on record, the British Columbia government is stepping up with more fire prevention strategies, programs and funding to help keep British Columbians and their communities safe this summer.
“We’ve taken a hard look at additional steps we can take to not only prevent wildfires, but also enhance our response on the ground during wildfire season,” said the Hon. Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. “Our base budget for wildfire spending has increased by 58%, and we’re accelerating prevention and prevention awareness programs.”
As part of Budget 2019, wildfire management funding has increased by 58% to $101 million annually. The additional funding will help the BC Wildfire Service add to its fire response capabilities – adding more crews, enhancing aerial capacity and including innovative technology – and spending more on fire prevention activities, including a more comprehensive prescribed burning program backed by an initial $10 million.
New technology, including night vision goggles to better aid in early detection and response, will also be piloted this summer.
Other important advances over the past year include building stronger working relationships with communities, First Nations, the forest industry and other stakeholders. The changes support the recommendations of the independent Abbott-Chapman report.
Wildfire prevention funding initiatives include the following:
The $50-million Community Resiliency Investment program was established in September 2018 to help local governments and First Nations lower wildfire risks around their communities. As part of Budget 2019, an additional $10 million has been added, for a total of $60 million. Results from the first application intake will be announced by the end of March 2019.
The B.C. government has increased funding under the Forest Carbon Initiative by $13 million over the next three years, allowing it to take advantage of matching funding from the federal government. This money is used for reforestation and restoration initiatives that not only capture carbon, but also reduce wildfire risks. This funding is in addition to the $235 million provided to the Forest Enhancement Society of B.C., of which nearly $180 million has been allocated.
Follow the latest wildfire news:
On Twitter: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
On Facebook: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo
Backgrounder here
Monday, March 18, 2019
TNG Calls on Supporters in Wake of Court Decision Gathering for Sacred Water planned on March 22
Courtesy of the Tsilhqot'in National Government:
The Tŝilhqot’in Nation will be seeking a further injunction from the BC Court of Appeal on March 22nd in order to halt a drilling program approved for Teẑtan Biny and surrounding area, an area of profound cultural and spiritual importance for the Tŝilhqot’in people. The Nation calls on all supporters to attend in solidarity for the environment, human rights and Indigenous peoples across Canada. The court hearing and an evening Gathering for Sacred Water coincide with the United Nations’ World Water Day.
The drilling permit was issued by the outgoing B.C. Liberal Government in 2017 for the stated purpose of advancing Taseko’s New Prosperity mine proposal – despite the fact that the Federal Government has twice rejected this project and it cannot be built.
On March 1, 2019, the B.C. Court of Appeal issued a judgment recognizing that the Teẑtan Biny area is an active cultural school for the Tŝilhqot’in, a resting place for ancestors, a site for spiritual and ceremonial activities and “a place of unique and special significance for the Tŝilhqot’in cultural identity and heritage.” The Court of Appeal even stated that a decision by government to reject the drilling program “may well have been reasonable,” but nonetheless upheld the provincial approval for this extensive drilling program.
The Tŝilhqot’in Nation is applying to the Supreme Court of Canada for leave to appeal this judgment.
The area in which the extensive drilling permit has been issued is a site of proven Aboriginal rights to hunt, fish and trap and adjacent to an area of proven and recognized Aboriginal title.
The approval of this permit in the face of such severe cultural and spiritual impacts for the Tŝilhqot’in people is a direct violation of the United Nations’ Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which the current Provincial government has committed to implement and legislate. Taseko Mines Ltd. has informed the Tŝilhqot’in that they intend to begin the drill program on March 19, 2019. The Tŝilhqot’in have requested that the company hold off on their work until the injunction hearing is heard on March 22. To date the company has refused to stand down.
The Tŝilhqot’in Nation calls on everyone to stand up for future generations and show support at the court hearing or at a special event in the evening in Vancouver. Drummers, Elders and leaders will gather outside the BC Court of Appeal (800 Hornby St #400, Vancouver, BC) from 8:30am-9:15am before entering the court room. In the evening of March 22nd, the Tŝilhqot’in will co-host a Gathering for Sacred Water. More details to follow on the Tŝilhqot’in National Government’s Facebook page.
Chief Russell Myers Ross, Vice-Chair, Tŝilhqot’in National Government stated:
“We call on all supporters to take action on the injustice and nonsense of this drilling permit being approved and potentially moving forward. The Nation sees no benefit in the mineral exploration given that the proposal does not have federal approval. In our opinion, it is meant more to exercise their will and add insult to their failed proposals. With all the talk of reconciliation and intentions of implementing UNDRIP, projects such as these show how shallow Crown laws are in regard to respecting Indigenous peoples' rights and perspectives of land and governing authority. We will fight this, by any means, to protect Teẑtan Biny and Nabas."
More Information:
Support and Drumming at Court Hearing
Location: BC Court of Appeal, 800 Hornby St #400, Vancouver, BC
Time: March 22, 2019: 8:30am-9:15am
Gathering for Sacred Water with the Tŝilhqot’in
Location in Vancouver: To be announced
Time: March 22, 2019: 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Please check https://www.facebook.com/TsilhqotinNationalGovernment/ for more information.
Resources:
• Teẑtan Biny: www.Teẑtanbiny.ca
• Video: www.tsilhqotin.ca/News-Media
• Dasiqox Tribal Park: https://dasiqox.org/
The Tŝilhqot’in Nation will be seeking a further injunction from the BC Court of Appeal on March 22nd in order to halt a drilling program approved for Teẑtan Biny and surrounding area, an area of profound cultural and spiritual importance for the Tŝilhqot’in people. The Nation calls on all supporters to attend in solidarity for the environment, human rights and Indigenous peoples across Canada. The court hearing and an evening Gathering for Sacred Water coincide with the United Nations’ World Water Day.
The drilling permit was issued by the outgoing B.C. Liberal Government in 2017 for the stated purpose of advancing Taseko’s New Prosperity mine proposal – despite the fact that the Federal Government has twice rejected this project and it cannot be built.
On March 1, 2019, the B.C. Court of Appeal issued a judgment recognizing that the Teẑtan Biny area is an active cultural school for the Tŝilhqot’in, a resting place for ancestors, a site for spiritual and ceremonial activities and “a place of unique and special significance for the Tŝilhqot’in cultural identity and heritage.” The Court of Appeal even stated that a decision by government to reject the drilling program “may well have been reasonable,” but nonetheless upheld the provincial approval for this extensive drilling program.
The Tŝilhqot’in Nation is applying to the Supreme Court of Canada for leave to appeal this judgment.
The area in which the extensive drilling permit has been issued is a site of proven Aboriginal rights to hunt, fish and trap and adjacent to an area of proven and recognized Aboriginal title.
The approval of this permit in the face of such severe cultural and spiritual impacts for the Tŝilhqot’in people is a direct violation of the United Nations’ Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which the current Provincial government has committed to implement and legislate. Taseko Mines Ltd. has informed the Tŝilhqot’in that they intend to begin the drill program on March 19, 2019. The Tŝilhqot’in have requested that the company hold off on their work until the injunction hearing is heard on March 22. To date the company has refused to stand down.
The Tŝilhqot’in Nation calls on everyone to stand up for future generations and show support at the court hearing or at a special event in the evening in Vancouver. Drummers, Elders and leaders will gather outside the BC Court of Appeal (800 Hornby St #400, Vancouver, BC) from 8:30am-9:15am before entering the court room. In the evening of March 22nd, the Tŝilhqot’in will co-host a Gathering for Sacred Water. More details to follow on the Tŝilhqot’in National Government’s Facebook page.
Chief Russell Myers Ross, Vice-Chair, Tŝilhqot’in National Government stated:
“We call on all supporters to take action on the injustice and nonsense of this drilling permit being approved and potentially moving forward. The Nation sees no benefit in the mineral exploration given that the proposal does not have federal approval. In our opinion, it is meant more to exercise their will and add insult to their failed proposals. With all the talk of reconciliation and intentions of implementing UNDRIP, projects such as these show how shallow Crown laws are in regard to respecting Indigenous peoples' rights and perspectives of land and governing authority. We will fight this, by any means, to protect Teẑtan Biny and Nabas."
More Information:
Support and Drumming at Court Hearing
Location: BC Court of Appeal, 800 Hornby St #400, Vancouver, BC
Time: March 22, 2019: 8:30am-9:15am
Gathering for Sacred Water with the Tŝilhqot’in
Location in Vancouver: To be announced
Time: March 22, 2019: 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Please check https://www.facebook.com/TsilhqotinNationalGovernment/ for more information.
Resources:
• Teẑtan Biny: www.Teẑtanbiny.ca
• Video: www.tsilhqotin.ca/News-Media
• Dasiqox Tribal Park: https://dasiqox.org/
Saturday, March 16, 2019
Lexington Water System Update
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
As of Jan. 1, 2019, the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) has assumed ownership, management and operation of the Lexington water system. Thanks for your patience as we move toward a new safe, reliable water source for the Lexington subdivision.
Water Source
We have found a new groundwater source and it has been approved for use by Interior Health; but, there is still considerable work to be done before we can use the new source. In the meantime, the system is currently operating the same as it did under management of the Lexington Improvement District. The water source is still Williams Lake and the Boil Water Notice is still in effect.
We are doing our best to complete the work as quickly as possible in order to remove the Boil Water Notice; however, there is still a lot of construction work to be done before the new well can be connected to the water system.
Construction
We have completed the design for the new pumphouse and connection of the well to the distribution system and have submitted the designs to Interior Health for approval. We will hire a construction company in March and construction will start when we have received all our approved permits. We are currently waiting for an archaeology permit, an access permit and subdivision approvals from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, finalization of the land purchase and a BC Hydro permit.
Since we are waiting on several permits, we don’t have an estimate on when construction will begin. Once it’s started, we expect the construction phase to take about 4 months.
Utility Billing
You will receive your annual bill for the water system in April 2019. Even though the water quality has not yet improved, we still must collect the funds needed to operate the system. The invoice will be for the $980 water user fee that was approved through the petition to have the regional district take over the water system. If you pay your invoice by May 31, 2019, you will receive a 10% discount off the annual user fee.
Questions?
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Cariboo Regional District Utilities Department at 250-392-3351 (or 1-800-665-1636). In the event of an after-hours emergency, you can call the same main phone number and press 5 to be connected to our after-hours emergency line.
As of Jan. 1, 2019, the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) has assumed ownership, management and operation of the Lexington water system. Thanks for your patience as we move toward a new safe, reliable water source for the Lexington subdivision.
Water Source
We have found a new groundwater source and it has been approved for use by Interior Health; but, there is still considerable work to be done before we can use the new source. In the meantime, the system is currently operating the same as it did under management of the Lexington Improvement District. The water source is still Williams Lake and the Boil Water Notice is still in effect.
We are doing our best to complete the work as quickly as possible in order to remove the Boil Water Notice; however, there is still a lot of construction work to be done before the new well can be connected to the water system.
Construction
We have completed the design for the new pumphouse and connection of the well to the distribution system and have submitted the designs to Interior Health for approval. We will hire a construction company in March and construction will start when we have received all our approved permits. We are currently waiting for an archaeology permit, an access permit and subdivision approvals from the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, finalization of the land purchase and a BC Hydro permit.
Since we are waiting on several permits, we don’t have an estimate on when construction will begin. Once it’s started, we expect the construction phase to take about 4 months.
Utility Billing
You will receive your annual bill for the water system in April 2019. Even though the water quality has not yet improved, we still must collect the funds needed to operate the system. The invoice will be for the $980 water user fee that was approved through the petition to have the regional district take over the water system. If you pay your invoice by May 31, 2019, you will receive a 10% discount off the annual user fee.
Questions?
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Cariboo Regional District Utilities Department at 250-392-3351 (or 1-800-665-1636). In the event of an after-hours emergency, you can call the same main phone number and press 5 to be connected to our after-hours emergency line.
Friday, March 15, 2019
Cariboo RD/CCRHD Boards' meet next week
Next week, only the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District (CCRHD) and the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) Boards' meet next Friday, March 22nd, starting at 9:30am in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).
On the Agenda -- CCRHD Board:
* CCRHD Funding Contribution for CMH and GR Baker Capital Projects Reaffirmed -- CCRHD COW Recommendation for Endorsement
* IHA Capital Projects and Planning Status Report - January 2019
* CCRHD Contribution to Capital Funding Cariboo Memorial Hospital Renovation Project - Report of the Chief Financial Officer
* Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District 2019-2023 Five Year Financial Plan (Bylaw #158 for 3 Readings/Adoption)
View the full Agenda here
On the Agenda - CRD Board:
* Various Land Use Items
* South Cariboo Sustainability Society - Inquiry Regarding Single-Use Plastics
* Improvements Needed to the BC Recycling Regulation - Letter to BC's Environment Minister
* North Cariboo Recreation Capital Plan – Handrails Project
* 2019 Info Fairs -- 2019 Priority for Board?
* ABC Communications – Request for Support of NDIT Application
* Recommendations from Policy Committee to remove dated CRD Board Policies
* 2019 Appointment to NCLGA Board - Cariboo RD Regional Rep
* Letter from Tsilhqot’in National Government - Request to meet
* Consent Calendar
* Receipt of various Committee Meeting Minutes and endorse recommendations from those meetings
* Alexis Creek Sewer Management Amendment Bylaw No. 5201, 2019 -- 3 Readings/Adoption
* Red Bluff/Dragon Lake Sewer Management Amendment Bylaw No. 5202, 2019 -- 3 Readings/Adoption
* Cariboo Regional District 2019 Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 5203, 2019 -- 3 Readings/Adoption
* Anahim Lake Airport Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 5204, 2019 -- 3 Readings/Adoption
* Request from Director Wagner to Access Electoral Area H Director Initiative Funds -- up to $300 for community meeting with 100 Mile RCMP
* Request from Director Richmond for Late NCLGA Resolution -- "Resourcing a Collaborative System of Data Sharing in the Province of BC"
* In-Camera Session, as per Section 90(1a - appointment) of the Community Charter
View the full Agenda here
*** Reminder that the 1st Advanced Vote for the Cariboo RD Area 'F' By-Election takes place on Wednesday, March 20th from 8am - 8pm at the CRD Office in Williams Lake. Full details here ***
On the Agenda -- CCRHD Board:
* CCRHD Funding Contribution for CMH and GR Baker Capital Projects Reaffirmed -- CCRHD COW Recommendation for Endorsement
* IHA Capital Projects and Planning Status Report - January 2019
* CCRHD Contribution to Capital Funding Cariboo Memorial Hospital Renovation Project - Report of the Chief Financial Officer
* Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District 2019-2023 Five Year Financial Plan (Bylaw #158 for 3 Readings/Adoption)
View the full Agenda here
On the Agenda - CRD Board:
* Various Land Use Items
* South Cariboo Sustainability Society - Inquiry Regarding Single-Use Plastics
* Improvements Needed to the BC Recycling Regulation - Letter to BC's Environment Minister
* North Cariboo Recreation Capital Plan – Handrails Project
* 2019 Info Fairs -- 2019 Priority for Board?
* ABC Communications – Request for Support of NDIT Application
* Recommendations from Policy Committee to remove dated CRD Board Policies
* 2019 Appointment to NCLGA Board - Cariboo RD Regional Rep
* Letter from Tsilhqot’in National Government - Request to meet
* Consent Calendar
* Receipt of various Committee Meeting Minutes and endorse recommendations from those meetings
* Alexis Creek Sewer Management Amendment Bylaw No. 5201, 2019 -- 3 Readings/Adoption
* Red Bluff/Dragon Lake Sewer Management Amendment Bylaw No. 5202, 2019 -- 3 Readings/Adoption
* Cariboo Regional District 2019 Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 5203, 2019 -- 3 Readings/Adoption
* Anahim Lake Airport Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 5204, 2019 -- 3 Readings/Adoption
* Request from Director Wagner to Access Electoral Area H Director Initiative Funds -- up to $300 for community meeting with 100 Mile RCMP
* Request from Director Richmond for Late NCLGA Resolution -- "Resourcing a Collaborative System of Data Sharing in the Province of BC"
* In-Camera Session, as per Section 90(1a - appointment) of the Community Charter
View the full Agenda here
*** Reminder that the 1st Advanced Vote for the Cariboo RD Area 'F' By-Election takes place on Wednesday, March 20th from 8am - 8pm at the CRD Office in Williams Lake. Full details here ***
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