Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Sept 30th - October 4th

After returning from the 2019 Union of BC Municipalities' Convention in Vancouver - the following local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin are meeting next week as follows:

Quesnel - Quesnel City Council - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, October 1st at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* 878 Abbott Drive - Waiving Fees for Volunteer Clean Up
* Greenhouse Gas Target Setting for Community and Corporation
* Request for Temporary Closed Roads - Remembrance Day Parade (Quesnel Legion)

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District - Meetings as noted below:

Solid Waste Management Committee Meeting - Thursday, October 3rd at 10am in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Status of the Solid Waste Management Plan - Implementation Stage
* Update on 2019 Activities/Projects
* Looking Forward to Next SWMP
* Requested Items -- Worm Composting and Solid Waste App

View the full Agenda here

Special Cariboo RD Board Meeting - Thursday, October 3rd at 1:00pm in the CRD Boardroom. On the Agenda:

* Delegation #1 - Reps from FLNRO
* Delegation #2 - Amy Thacker, CEO - Cariboo-Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Meeting - Friday, October 4th at 9:30am in the CRD Boardroom.  On the Agenda:

* Interior Health - Completed Projects-Major Equipment Report
* Interior Health Capital Funding Request – Cariboo Memorial Hospital Redevelopment Project ($87.1 million for 40% CCRHD Share for Project with total project sitting at $217 million over 2 Phases)

* Verbal Updates from Chair B. Simpson re: Capital Projects updates and updates from UBCM Meetings

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo RD Board Meeting - Friday, October 4th at 9:45am or upon adjournment of the CCRHD Board Meeting in the CRD Boardroom.  On the Agenda:

* Various Land Use Items (Bylaws/Permits)
* Request for Telus Cell Tower in Forest Grove (Area H)
* NDIT Application – Kersley Arena Renovation
* Letter of Support Request – Wells and Area Trail Society Proposal (Rural Dividend)
* Cariboo Strong Funds – Waterfront Trail Accessibility Improvements/Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society Grants Program Review (As these items were not considered at Central Cariboo Joint Committee, due to quorum issues from City of WL Council, these two items were directly presented to the Regional Board for consideration of approval)

* 3 Grant for Assistance applications (Areas D and L)
* Committee Recommendations
* Cariboo Regional District Central Cariboo and Chilcotin Economic Development Services Merge Bylaw No. 5244, 2019 (Areas D,E,F,J,K)

View the full Agenda here

Recycling Services coming to McLeese/Tatla Lakes

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

McLeese Lake and Tatla Lake residents now can recycle closer to home with the opening of satellite recycling depots in their communities. As of this week, both depots are open for business and accept all Recycle BC materials, including containers, paper, glass, plastic bags and overwrap, foam packaging and other flexible plastic packaging.

The McLeese Lake depot is located at the CRD McLeese Lake Transfer Station (2258 Beaver Lake Road) and will be open on Tuesdays and Saturdays from noon to 3 p.m. The Tatla Lake depot is located at the Graham Inn (6423 HWY 20). It is open Mondays and Fridays from noon to 2 p.m.

Please note, depots can only be used during hours of operation. Unfortunately, materials left outside the depot while it is closed will be disposed. Depot attendants help educate residents on how to sort their recyclables, but they will not do the sorting for them.

The new sites accept all Recycle BC materials. To learn what materials can be recycled or to find a depot recycling guide, visit cariboord.ca/recycling or recyclebc.ca or pick one up at your local depot.

Please remember, CRD Recycle BC depots do not accept hazardous items like batteries, electronics, sharps, and pressurized tanks. To find out where to dispose of hazardous items, or non-packaging and paper items like tires, used oil or medications, visit rcbc.ca or call the BC recycling hotline at 1-800-667-4321.

These are the first two satellite recycling depots opened by the CRD. They differ from a regular recycling site, because the CRD is responsible for hauling the recyclables to the next closest depot. For example, the McLeese Lake recyclables will be dropped off at the Wildwood recycling depot. Recycle BC is responsible for the transportation and management of the recyclables from there.

Adding these two depots were goals in the CRD’s current Solid Waste Management Plan. The planning process for the next plan will start in the fall of 2020. Watch for surveys and meeting dates to have your say.

To date, the CRD operates 13 regular recycling depots from Nimpo Lake to Watch Lake to Baker Creek and as far east as Horsefly. In 2018, 855 tonnes of recyclables were collected across all the sites. Find a list of the sites and their hours at cariboord.ca/recycling.

The CRD collects recyclables on behalf of Recycle BC, who responsibly recycles packaging and paper from B.C. residents. Learn more about the Recycle BC program: recyclebc.ca  

#UBCM2019 - Day 5 of 5

Today is the final day of the 2019 Union of BC Municipalities' or UBCM Convention being held for the week of September 23-27, 2019 in the City of Vancouver

On my calendar:

* Continuing debate on 2019 UBCM Resolutions (whichever UBCM Resolutions have not yet been debated will be referred to the 2019-20 UBCM Executive for their consideration)
* Installation of 2019-20 UBCM President
* Address by the Premier of BC - Hon. John Horgan
* Conclusion of the 2019 UBCM Convention

Following adjournment of the 2019 UBCM Convention - I will take place my afternoon flight back to Kamloops and then drive back to Williams Lake. A "Post Event report" for the 2019 UBCM Convention will follow in the next number of days

SF

#UBCM2019 - Day 4 of 5

Today is Day 4 of 5 for the 2019 Union of BC Municipalities' or UBCM Convention being held for the week of September 23-27, 2019 in the City of Vancouver

On my calendar today:

* Clinic: Modernizing BC’s Emergency Program Act (EPA)
* Address by BC's Leader of the Opposition: Mr. Andrew Wilkinson
* Continuing 2019 UBCM Resolution Debate
* Workshop: Let’s not WASTE Time! (Solid Waste Workshop put on by the Comox Valley Regional District)
* 2019 UBCM Annual Banquet

I have 1 meeting today with Ministry of Citizen Services' staff regarding lack of internet/cell services in rural areas

Finally - elections for various UBCM Executive including the Electoral Area representative will occur later today.  Here's a letter I sent to the 159 Electoral Area Directors' last month outlining my candidacy -- click here

SF

Doing nothing?

Weekly Column by Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson:

As I noted last week, City Council has been forced to take steps to ensure our public spaces are safe for all our citizens. We have an obligation to protect public safety and sometimes that requires us to take measures we know some members of our community will not be happy about.

Take for example, the recent closure of the public washrooms located across from Ceal Tingley Park. Many members of the public are not happy we had to close those washrooms, neither is Council. But, we have an obligation to protect our City workers and the public from the toxic smoke drug users now create in these spaces.

While we’re taking every step possible to protect public safety, we’re also, contrary to the claims of some local harm reduction activists and academics, working collaboratively with health, housing, and social service agencies to improve the services provided in our community for people struggling with mental health and substance abuse challenges.

For example, while activists keep saying the current homeless shelter is being “overwhelmed” they fail to mention that Council has worked with BC Housing and various not for profit agencies to attract an unprecedented investment in social and affordable housing in our community. When all the planned and approved facilities are built over the next two years, we
will see more investment in social housing in Quesnel, on a per capita basis, than the majority of BC communities.

Sixty-eight units of new affordable housing were made available for a variety of target groups with the opening of Silver Manor and Kikihnaw House (on MacLean Street). The Elliott Street project will create 32 new units of low barrier 24/7 supportive housing, more than double the currently funded shelter beds available at Seasons House, and another 27 units of high barrier 24/7 supportive housing units will be built on Front Street. An additional 12 new units for women and children fleeing violence are also in the works.

The addition of these new 139 social housing units is a giant leap in the right direction for our community; but those opposed to our public safety measures consistently fail to mention these progressive steps when they claim Council is “doing nothing” to help people in need. In fact, most of these activists also know that Council has only begun to address our housing needs, as we’ve been working with them to develop a comprehensive North Cariboo Housing Strategy that will see us attract even more investment to address the full spectrum of housing needs in our community.

In addition to our efforts to address housing needs, Council has worked collaboratively with Northern Health and BC Housing on an initiative to improve services for people suffering with mental health and substance abuse challenges. Over the past three years a collaborative roundtable process, Community Caring for People with Addictions (CCPA), has developed
and begun to implement a series of initiatives aimed at improving mental health and addictions service delivery in Quesnel. The Executive Director of Seasons House sits on that committee, as do peers (individuals who have or are experiencing homelessness, mental health and substance abuse challenges).

The CCPA process has already made significant improvements to treatment and serv
ice delivery in Quesnel and we have initiatives underway to see even more investments and
improvements to these services.

Quesnel City Council is working hard, on all fronts, to engage with willing partners to address the complex social issues all communities now struggle with. Shaming and blaming Council
for the steps we must take to protect the public does not create a spirit of collaboration and does nothing to maintain the social license we need to continue to invest in housing and health services for people struggling with mental health and substance abuse challenges.

Bob Simpson is the Mayor of Quesnel.  He can be reached via email here

#UBCM2019 - Day 3 of 5

Today is Day 3 of 5 for the 2019 Union of BC Municipalities' or UBCM Convention being held for the week of September 23-27, 2019 in the City of Vancouver

On my calendar today:

* Clinic: Elected Officials Must Themselves be Resilient (Engaging with Constituents in a respectful way yet protecting your own health (mental/physical)
* Opening Ceremonies for the 2019 UBCM Convention
* Keynote Address from former Canadian Broadcast Corporation Chief Correspondent Peter Mansbridge
* Start of 2019 UBCM Resolutions Debate
* Address from the Hon. Selina Robinson - BC's Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
* Cabinet Town Hall Session: Strong Community Infrastructure
* BC Government Reception

I have 4 meetings scheduled today:

a) ICBC re: Speed Watch Signs at McLeese Lake along with installation of a cross walk device between Oasis Pub/Café and McLeese Lake General Store

b) BC Assessment Authority re: Property Assessment Appeal Procedures and also investigating how to obtain property assessment exemption for the Fire Building at Tyee Lake, similar to a case at Big Lake....

c) Municipal Affairs re: Legislative Options for removal of a portion of Areas D/E from Building Inspection imposed back in 2006

d) FLNRO re: Road Maintenance for properties on east side of Tyee Lake

SF

#UBCM2019 - Day 2 of 5

Today is Day 2 of 5 for the 2019 Union of BC Municipalities' or UBCM Convention being held for the week of September 23-27, 2019 in the City of Vancouver

For a wrap on Day 1 of #UBCM2019 - Click here

On my calendar today:

* Mining Breakfast event with Cariboo RD Chair Margo Wagner
* Electoral Area Directors' Forum then lunch to follow
* Address by the President, Federation of Canadian Municipalities
* Connected Communities BC: Enhancing Resiliency through Connectivity
* UBCM's Welcome Reception

3 Planned Meetings today:

a) BC Hydro Staff Presentation on LED Lighting from 9:30am - 10:30am with my CRD Area A colleague - Mary Sjostrom

b) FLNRO Meeting re: Road access to Tyee Lake properties on east side of lake from 1pm - 1:30pm

c) Meeting with Todd Stone from 1:50pm to 2:10pm re: Implementation of Building Inspection in 2006 to include all of Electoral Area D, Cariboo RD and respecting the role of Electoral Area Director vis-à-vis Mayors/Councillors

#CaribooRD Board attends UBCM this week

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

The Cariboo Regional District Board of Directors are attending the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) convention this week in Vancouver.

Throughout the week, CRD Directors are meeting with Ministers and ministry staff on several important issues affecting the region. The topics they will be raising include developing emergency egress routes for the Wells area (Purden Lake Connector) and the Horsefly/Likely area (Ditch Road); improving access to broadband internet in rural areas; industrial, commercial and institutional recycling regulation; expanding three-phase power along Highway 26; fixing the West Fraser Road; and additional support for rural policing and crime prevention.

The Board has also submitted nine resolutions for endorsement by the UBCM membership. The resolutions cover:

• Consistency in access to Emergency Support Service (ESS) resources;
• Training challenges related to new ammonia regulations;
• Cannabis revenue sharing with local governments;
• Resourcing a data sharing system in B.C. for emergencies;
• Increasing funding for fire centres in B.C.;
• A multi-agency approach to fire-smarting transportation corridors;
• Maintaining provincial responsibility for the Fire Services Act and regulations;
• Improving access to provincial emergency preparedness funding for independent fire services; and
• The need for more small aircraft pilot training.

Updates and photos from the week will be posted on the CRD’s Facebook page and website.

#UBCM2019 - Day 1 of 5

Today is the 1st day of 5 for the 2019 Union of BC Municipalities' or UBCM Convention being held for the week of September 23-27, 2019 in the City of Vancouver... Many locally elected officials - whether Electoral Area Directors from the 28 BC Regional Districts', Municipal Councillors/Mayors or representatives from Indigenous Communities across BC - will be attending over the next 5 days to learn new best practices in local government, networking with colleagues or meeting with Provincial Ministry Staff or Cabinet Ministers...

On my calendar today:

* Financing Reconciliation: Supporting Inclusive Governance in BC – “That We May Be Good People Together” (Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Peoples)
* FortisBC Wine/Cheese Event
* Electoral Area Directors' Meet and Greet

Cariboo Chilcotin Local Governments' off to #UBCM2019

Next week - all local governments (Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake; Districts of Wells/100 Mile House and the Cariboo Regional District Board) are not meeting as they attend the 2019 Union of BC Municipalities' or UBCM Convention in Vancouver, BC from Monday, September 23rd to Friday, September 27th.  The full Agenda for the UBCM Convention can be viewed here

Only the Board of Education for School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) will be meeting next week on Tuesday, September 24th at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

I will have daily blog posts from the 2019 UBCM Convention next week - so stay tuned for those!

SF

It’s not about the money

Weekly Column by Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson:

As expected, Council’s approval of an update to the City’s Nuisance Bylaw has created some push back in the community and some concerns that Council is trying to get money out of people who clearly are struggling just to survive. Despite multiple attempts from Council to explain the rationale behind this bylaw, misinformation and deliberate disinformation about Council’s intent abounds, especially on social media.

Council regularly updates all its policies and bylaws and the recent update to the Nuisance Bylaw is, in part, merely part of this process. For example, we’ve been asked for some time to deal with the issue of vacant and/or abandoned commercial and residential properties. These “nuisance” properties can become highly problematic from both a public safety and a community aesthetics perspective, so we needed to strengthen the previously existing nuisance bylaw with respect to these properties.

We also need to regularly update bylaws to current legal standards and best practices gleaned from other communities. In the case of the Nuisance Bylaw, one area that is changing is in the domain of nuisance behaviours in public spaces, especially spaces in communities that have high pedestrian traffic and areas that have been heavily invested in for tourism attraction.

Quesnel’s updated Nuisance Bylaw designates limited areas in the City’s core, where behaviours that cause members of the public to feel unsafe are prohibited. The bylaw seeks compliance with public nuisances that impact the peace, enjoyment, safety, security and well-being of residents and members of the public.

If laws are created, then consequences need to be put in place for those who break the law. For municipalities, the only real consequences we can impose are tickets and fines. However, fines are never intended as a “money grab” – the desire of any Council is always to educate people about bylaws and have people voluntarily comply with them once they know the law.

The intention is most definitely not to try and get money from people who, most likely, would not have it. Our intent is to give our Bylaw Officers a tool to address what is increasingly becoming highly problematic behaviours; behaviours that are chasing citizens (especially the elderly, families with young children, and visitors) out of what should be our most highly used community spaces. In most cases, Bylaw officers will first attempt to educate individuals about the bylaw. If needed, any tickets issued to individuals under the Nuisance Bylaw create a case for further action if the individual receiving the ticket(s) continually refuses to adhere to the law. In short, the updated Nuisance Bylaw gives our Bylaw Officers more tools to protect all citizens’ rights to feel safe in public spaces.

As I’ve stated many times, local governments have limited tools to ensure public safety. The update to the Nuisance Bylaw is an effort to make sure the limited tools we have are current, as strong as we can make them, and enforceable.

With respect to the claim made by some that we’re focused on the wrong end of this complex situation: Council is also actively engaged in improving the housing options and social programs for individuals in our community who struggle with substance abuse and mental health issues. We have been for the past three years and have seen marked improvements in a number of these services, including the deployment of direct supports on the street and the engagement of peers. More on this in my next column.

Quesnel Council Highlights - Sept 17th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Remedial Action Order – 878 Abbott Drive Council deemed the building located at 878 Abbott Drive to be in an unsafe condition and a nuisance to the community. Council requires the property owner to demolish the building and remove all debris from this property by October 15, 2019 due to health and safety conditions identified by the Chief Building Official and the Bylaw Supervisor. The property owner has the right to have Council reconsider this Remedial Action Order until September 25, 2019. Should the property owner not demolish the building and remove all debris by October 15, 2019, the City will complete the remedial work with the costs of this undertaking added to this property’s tax bill.

Permissive Tax Exemptions A full review of all non-profit permissive tax exemptions was completed. Council gave the first two bylaw readings to the following bylaws that outlines the names of the non-profit organizations or religious organizations and the total tax exemption proposed for each. The bylaws are: City of Quesnel 2020-2023 Tax Exempting Bylaw No. 1876 of 2019 City of Quesnel 2016-2025 Tax Exempting Amendment Bylaw No. 1878 of 2019. If all current exemptions are given at the same current rates, the estimated total amount of permissive tax exemption is $91,014, or 0.569% of the City’s tax base. Next steps include the proposed Bylaws coming before Council for consideration to receive third reading and final adoption.

Retail Cannabis Stores Council gave the first three readings for the proposed City of Quesnel Zone Amendment Bylaw No. 1874 of 2019 that would allow for a maximum of five (5) Retail Cannabis Stores within the City. Council has set a Public Hearing for proposed Bylaw 1874 to be at 6 pm, Tuesday, October 1, 2019 at City Hall Council Chambers.

2020 Council Regular Meeting Schedule Council approved the 2020 Council Regular Meeting Schedule. This schedule will appear in the September 25, 2019 and October 2, 2019 Quesnel Cariboo Observer newspaper, posted at City Hall Public Posting Areas, and on the City’s website.

Bylaws 1874 – Zone Amendment – Cannabis Retail Stores – Maximum of Five Stores – First and Second Readings and Public Hearing Set to 6 pm, October 1, 2019 at City Hall Council Chambers 1875 – Political Campaign Signs (Designated Political Sign Areas) – Final Adoption 1876 – Permissive Tax Exemptions (Non-Profits 2020 – 2023) – First and Second Readings 1878 – Permissive Tax Exemption Amendment (Religious Schools Services 2016 – 2025) – First and Second Readings

Next Meeting 6 pm – October 1, 2019 – Regular Council Meeting

WL Council Highlights - Sept 17th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

COUNCIL OF FOREST INDUSTRIES DINNER

Council unanimously approved and encouraged the Mayor to attend the Council of Forest Industries (COFI) dinner on September 19th, 2019 in Prince George on behalf of the City of Williams Lake. This will be an opportunity to network with senior representatives from the forest sector, local, provincial and federal governments, First Nations, Chambers of Commerce and local businesses on behalf of the City.

TOLKO LAKEVIEW APPROVAL

Council unanimously approved the classification of Class 1 for the reconstruction of the Tolko Sawmill under the No. 2279 Central Industrial Revitalization Tax Exemption Bylaw. Council agreed that every effort must be taken to support the forest industry.

LITERACY MONTH PROCLAMATION

Following a request from the Cariboo-Chilcotin Partners for Literacy, Council unanimously approved the proclamation of September 2019 as “Literacy Month” in recognition of the CCPL’s efforts to raise awareness about literacy and local programs supporting those facing literacy challenges.

FALL HARVEST RUN

The City of Williams Lake encourages all residents to attend the Harvest Run taking place on October 6th, 2019 at 11 am from the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex. This event is a run/walk/bike or stroll event over 5km or 10km if you wish to do the route twice.

6-POINT CRIME ACTION PLAN

Council unanimously approved the recommendation by the Committee of the Whole to endorse the “Williams Lake 6-Point Crime Action Plan.” This plan will see the implementation of new objectives to further reduce crime throughout the City, and to encourage stricter enforcement of penalties by the judiciary courts.

WINTER ROAD MAINTENANCE

Council unanimously approved the recommendation by the Committee of the Whole to endorse the “Winter Road Maintenance Plan” which aims to move towards the gradual decrease in the use of salt over the next five years to the point of operational minimums.

CLIMATE STRIKE & MARCH

Following a request from the organizers of the Climate Strike & March, Council encourages the City of Williams Lake and all residents to participate in the Climate Strike & March taking place on Friday, September 20th, 2019 beginning at noon from Red Shreds Bike Shop.

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF OLDER PERSONS PROCLAMATION

Following a request from the Council of Senior Citizens’ Organizations of BC, Council unanimously approved the proclamation of October 1st, 2019 as “International Day of Older Persons.”

CARIBOO-CHILCOTIN WELL-BEING & COMMUNITY SAFETY SURVEY

Council received an information package, and encourages all residents of the City of Williams Lake to complete the Cariboo-Chilcotin Well-Being & Community Safety Survey. This survey is an opportunity for each individual to provide their unique feedback into the future of the Cariboo-Chilcotin. The survey can be found at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/WBCSSurvey

FIRST AVE NORTH – 39 UNIT APARTMENT BUILDING

Council unanimously approved the decision to engage both the Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing and the Premier at the upcoming Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) conference and inquire into the Province’s decision to rescind the agreement to provide 39 affordable units in the new development located on 1st Ave North.

McLeese Lake RCMP Community Meeting

McLeese Lake Community Hall
Sept 18th, 2019 RCMP Community Meeting

Earlier this evening - 23 people from either McLeese Lake/Tyee Lake came to a local meeting with Williams Lake RCMP Inspector Jeff Pelley along with Dave Dickson - City of WL Mgr of Community Safety

For nearly a hour - local residents' expressed concerns about timely response from the RCMP.  Inspector Pelley gave the commitment to review the concerns and make improvements to how the RCMP respond to calls for service to the McLeese Lake Area...

As the CRD Area 'D' Director - I believe it was a worthwhile effort to receive candid feedback about public safety in the community and I would be prepared to do another "check-in" meeting in the future (Spring 2020) to see if things are improving or not...

But thank you for everyone who took the time this evening to participate and provide that honest feedback.  We can't improve services if we don't know what is and is not working...

SF

CC Rural Caucus Highlights - September 18th mtg

Present: Chair S. Forseth; Directors M. LeBourdais, G. Kirby and Alternate Director J. D'Andrea (Area E)

The Chair called the meeting to order at 3:05pm

The Chair acknowledged that today's meeting was being held on the traditional territory of the Northern Secwepemc peoples and welcomed Area 'E' Alternate Director Jacinta D'Andrea to today's Caucus meeting for Director A. Delainey

Meeting agenda approved
Minutes of the June Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus Meeting were received/adopted

Business:

The Caucus reviewed the following matters:

1) CC Vicim Services 2018 Annual Report - Caucus resolved to receive the report and request a presentation from the City of Williams Lake on the Central Cariboo Victim Services program at the October Caucus meeting and that the Victim Services Agreement be renewed with the City of Williams Lake for an additional 3 year term
2) Agreements with the City of Williams Lake respecting HandyDART to portions of Areas D,E,F and financial contribution to the City of Williams Lake Municipal Cemetery.  Caucus resolved to renew these agreements for additional term at existing amounts
3) Received the Action Page as of September 18th, 2019

The Caucus adjourned at 3:55pm

Emergency Preparedness Committee Highlights - Sept 18th mtg

Present: Chair M. Wagner and Directors' M. Sjostrom, B. Bachmeier, S. Forseth, M. LeBourdais, J. and G. Kirby

The Chair called the meeting to order at 9:30am

The Chair acknowledged that the meeting was taking place on the traditional territory of the Northern Secwepemc peoples

Meeting Agenda adopted and minutes of the Committee meeting held on June 12th, 2019 were received/adopted

Delegation:

Stephanie Masun, Community Liaison Coordinator, appeared before the Committee to provide a verbal report on the Summer 2019 Flood Recovery as well as a progress report on the Community Liaison Program.

A Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair, on behalf of the Committee, thanked Ms. Masun for her time/information

Business:

1) Emergency Preparedness Updates and Discussion

The Committee had before it a report from the Chief Administrative Officer
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - Report received

The Committee adjourned at 11:55am

West Chilcotin Fibre Utilization Project a Success Environmental Benefits & Increased Employment

Courtesy of West Chilcotin Forest Products & Forest Enhancement Society of BC:

A Forest Enhancement Society of B.C. (FESBC) funded fibre recovery project in the Chilcotin is increasing utilization of forest fibre by 20 per cent and the number of full-time jobs by 20. The FESBC funding is enabling Ulkatcho First Nation-owned West Chilcotin Forest Products (WCFP) to bring forest fibre to market that would normally be left behind or burned as waste in cut blocks.

Over the winter and through early spring, WCFP was unable to haul the pulp logs into Bella Coola due to the severity of seasonal storms that hit the Bella Coola Valley which prevents the safe log hauling, storage and barge loading. A provincial shortage of haul trucks presented an added challenge even if there had have been a good weather window to load the log barges.

“The West Chilcotin plateau lacks the infrastructure many other areas of our province take for granted,” said Stephen James, Executive Director of WCFP. “Given the distance to markets for our forest products, enhanced utilization of our forest fibre has always been a struggle. With funding from FESBC, we can now start to do our part to fight climate change while at the same time provide much needed employment for our band members.”

Despite the current challenging state of the forestry industry, WCFP reached another production milestone. Pulp wood that was being burnt this time last year is now sitting in bundles at the reload area in Bella Coola, ready to be loaded onto a barge. This fibre will be barged to a chipper and then on to Harmac Pacific Pulp mill to be made into pulp.

“It’s impressive to see thousands of cubic metres of pulp wood ready in the water, having safely been processed and hauled to Bella Coola,” said Dave Conly, Operations Manager, FESBC.

Historically, fibre has been left in piles along forest roads and is legally required to be burned. By moving and utilizing the fibre instead, less is burned and there is a reduction in greenhouse gases (GHG). Some GHGs contribute to climate change so by avoiding these emissions, the project is contributing to the Provincial and Federal climate change mitigation agreements.

“The Ulkatcho First Nation, as an owner of WCFP, very much appreciates the support of the governments of B.C. and Canada,” said James. “The funding they’ve provided through FESBC to assist with fibre utilization is a great benefit to our community and to our environment.”

The project brings economic benefits to the region in terms of jobs and community benefits via relationship-building between the community of Bella Coola and Harmac Pacific. “This project is a great initiative as it provides a few extra much needed jobs for our community and it reduces the amount of wood left in the bush to be burnt,” said Ulkatcho First Nation councilor Charlie Williams.

FESBC’s Conly sees the fibre utilization project as a good news story. “Even though there have been some implementation delays, it is clear that during the current economic downturn in the forestry industry, this project supports coastal paper production, provides economic benefits for the west Chilcotin area, and reduces carbon production and environmental impacts.”

Strong, Competitive Forestry Future

Courtesy of BC's Council of Forest Industries:

The BC Council of Forest Industries (COFI) today released a plan – “Smart Future: A Path Forward for B.C.’s Forest Products Industry” – with 60 policy choices that can be made today to secure a stronger future for B.C.’s forest sector.

The forest industry has been a cornerstone of the B.C. economy for more than 100 years, generating about 140,000 jobs in our province, including one in four jobs in the manufacturing sector. The industry is currently facing significant challenges that are being felt across the province.

“B.C.’s forest industry is an industry in transition,” said Susan Yurkovich, President and CEO, BC Council of Forest Industries. “The industry is facing somewhat of a perfect storm – an array of market and operating challenges coming together at a time when we are also experiencing a significant structural shift in the availability and cost of fibre. These conditions are forcing difficult decisions, which are impacting workers and communities.”

A number of policy reviews and public consultations are underway to discuss the challenges. COFI and its member companies are actively participating in these discussions along with many other groups.

“In addition to addressing today’s challenges, many people are asking what the future holds for forestry in British Columbia, and where will we be once we have moved through this transition,” commented Yurkovich. “We believe that with the right choices, there is a bright future for the forest industry in B.C. That’s why we are putting forward our ideas for a path forward – one that will help attract investment, secure jobs, deliver value and sustain economic benefits across the province.”

“Some of these policy choices can be implemented by industry, others will require government action, and many will require collective effort from workers, communities, First Nations, academic institutions and all those involved in the sector to build the industry of the future,” added Yurkovich.

The 60 choices for a better future are outlined under five major areas:

Invest in, and protect, our working forest land base
Have smart rules that protect the environment and encourage investment
Strengthen participation of Indigenous people and partnerships with communities
Double down on market and product diversification
Be the global hub for expertise in low-carbon, green building

Read the report from COFI here

Don Kayne, Chair, BC Council of Forest Industries went on to say:

“Industry is ready to work with all partners to put these ideas into action. Working in partnership, we can create the right conditions for a world-leading, globally competitive and innovative manufacturer of high-quality, sustainable products that supports skilled jobs and provides economic benefits for communities, First Nations, and all British Columbians. “

Taseko Mines receives setback to extend BC Environmental Certificate 2nd time for 'New Prosperity' Mine

Last Thursday - the BC Supreme Court ruled against Taseko Mines' request to have a judicial review on a recent decision of BC's Environment Minister (Hon. George Heyman) not to extend their Provincial Environmental Certificate for a 2nd time until 2025 for Taseko's New Prosperity mine, southwest of Williams Lake in Cariboo RD Electoral Area 'J'.  Read the full Supreme Court judgment here.  The federal government has ruled twice that the New Prosperity project can not proceed as a result of adverse environmental and aboriginal impacts that can not be mitigated - both in 2010 and 2013.

Also - an BC Supreme Court injunction was recently granted to the Tsilhqot’in Nation until a new trial to prove that proposed drilling by Taseko Mines for their "New Prosperity" mine project represents an unjustified infringement of the Tsilhqot'in proven Aboriginal rights is heard.

First Nation Women Advocating Responsible Mining celebrated the decision of the BC Supreme Court - See below:



Taseko Mines has not issued a media statement thus far on the decision of the BC Supreme Court. They are able to appeal to the BC Court of Appeal or even to the Supreme Court of Canada.

Unless this decision is stayed pending an appeal to the BC Court of Appeal or Supreme Court of Canada -- the provincial Environment Certificate for the New Prosperity Mine will terminate in January 2020...

SF

Public washrooms closed due to safety concerns

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

The City of Quesnel has now closed the public washrooms located across from Ceal Tingley Park.

The washrooms are frequently vandalized and littered with drug paraphernalia and residual drug substances, all of which have become a danger to City employees and the public. Although the City has tried to mitigate these issues, it can no longer provide reasonable assurance for the safety of its employees or the public.

Other public washrooms are located at Spirit Centre, LeBourdais Park and on the Riverfront Trail below Bowron Ave and at the Sugarloaf Dog Park.

For more information on what the City is doing about homelessness, addictions and crime, please visit:www.quesnel.ca/city-hall/major-initiatives/homelessness-addictions-and-crime.

Local Gov't Mtgs - Wk of Sept 16-20

The following local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will meet next week:

Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Sept 17th at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Committee Reports
* Council Discussion -- Arts & Recreation Passes for R.C.M.P. (previously discussed at a North Cariboo Joint Committee meeting)
* Administration Report #84/19 - Remedial Action - 878 Abbott Drive
* Administration Report #85/19 - Permissive Tax Exemptions
* Administration Report #78C/19 - Cannabis Retail Sales - Maximum Number of Stores
* Administration Report #83/19 - 2020 Annual Council Meeting Schedule
* Invite to Open House - Community Based Mental Health Service Office in Quesnel
* Letter from Lewis Drive resident David G. Haley re: Speeding, Acceleration and Noise

View the full Agenda here

School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Board of Education meeting on Wednesday, September 18th at 7pm in the SD28 Boardroom (401 North Star Road).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, September 17th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers.  On the Agenda:

* Request for approval - Mayor Cobb to attend COFI Dinner in PG - September 19th
* Williams Lake Downtown Business Improvement Area Amendment Bylaw No. 2314 - Boundary Expansion - Adoption
* Central Industrial Revitalization Tax Exemption Application - Tolko Industries Ltd. - 180 Hodgson Road
* Fire Department Pre-Incident Planning Project - Sole-Source Approval
* Consideration of 6 Committee of the Whole recommendations

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District - Meetings as noted below:

Emergency Preparedness Committee - Regular Meeting on Wednesday, September 18th at 9:30am in the CRD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Stephanie Masun, Community Liaison Coordinator, will appear before the Committee to provide a verbal report on the Summer 2019 Flood Recovery as well as a progress report on the Community Liaison Program.

* Report from CAO J. MacLean re: Emergency Preparedness Updates

View the full Agenda here

Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Regular Meeting on on Wednesday, September 18th at 3:00pm in the CRD Williams Lake Committee Room (180D North 3rd Avenue).  On the Agenda:

* Williams Lake RCMP Based Victim Services 2018 Annual Report
* Discussion Items

i) Central Cariboo Economic Development Business Plan
ii) Renewal of HandyDart Agreement with City of Williams Lake
iii) Renewal of Cemetery Services Agreement with City of Williams Lake
iv) Memorandum of Understanding with City of Williams Lake

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo RD Board Highlights - Sept 13th mtg

Present: Chair M. Wagner/Vice-Chair J. Massier and Directors M. Sjostrom, B. Bachmeier, S.Forseth, A. Delainey, M. LeBourdais, A. Richmond, J. Glassford, G. Kirby, C. Mernett, W. Macdonald, G. Fourchalk, B. Simpson, W. Cobb and M. Campsall

The Chair called the meeting to order at 9:45am.  Meeting Location - Tatla Lake Community Hall (Electoral Area 'J')

The Chair acknowledged that the meeting was taking place on traditional Tslhqot'in Territory

Meeting Agenda approved & Minutes of the August 23rd CRD Board were received/approved

The Board received the Delegations MOB

Business:

Development Services:

1) The Board adopted the following Resolution in respect of DVP #1938 (Area F/Weatherby - 3142 Wise Place):

That a Development Variance Permit to vary Section 4.14 (e) of the Williams Lake Fringe and 150 Mile House Area Zoning Bylaw No. 3502, 1999 as follows:
i) That the increase in maximum floor area for ancillary structures from 350 sq. m (3,767 sq. ft) to 525 sq. m (5,651.23 sq. ft) for constructing a new RV storage be rejected.
ii) That the increase in maximum floor area for ancillary structures from 350 sq. m (3,767 sq. ft) to 453.66 sq. m (4883.23 sq. ft) for legalizing the existing non-conforming ancillary structures be approved.
2) That a Development Variance Permit to vary Section 5.19.2(iii) of the Williams Lake Fringe and 150 Mile House Area Zoning Bylaw No. 3502, 1999 as follows:
i) That the application for a Development Variance Permit to reduce the minimum required interior yard setback on the southern property line from 7.6 m (24.93 ft) to 6.096 m (20 ft) for legalizing the existing non-conforming shop setback be approved.

Environmental Services:

1) The Board directed staff to submit the proposed Board Chair letter to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy regarding the Clean BC- Plastics Action Plan

2) The Board agreed to support the submission from the Districts of Squamish and Tofino in response to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy’s proposed amendments to the Recycling Regulation of the Environmental Management Act

Community Services:

1) The Board agreed to support an NDIT application from the Williams Lake Cycling Club to the Northern Development Initiative Trust for $30,000 from the Community Halls and Recreation Facilities Program to improve local trail networks with traditional place names and map kiosks

Protective Services:

1) The Board received a report from the CAO in respect of a FireSmart Program in the Electoral Areas...

Finance:

1) The Board received and ratified the monthly cheque register for the month of August 2019, in the amount of $5,003,527.29

2) The Board approved Year Round Intake Grant for Assistance applications, as follows:

a) McLeese Lake VFD Society - $1,000 for Fire Prevention Week activities (funded by Area 'D' Grant for Assistance fund)
b) Wildwood Community Association - $500 for Fire Hall Open House (funded by Area 'D' Grant for Assistance fund)

Administration:

1) The Board reported out on an adopted In-Camera Resolution, as follows:

That the Board appoints Ms. Janis Bell to represent the Regional District on the Local Government Side Table for the NStQ treaty discussions. Further that Ms. Bell will report back to the Board through Director John Massier as the Board’s Treaty Advisory Committee appointee. And further, that the Board authorizes the payment of Ms. Bell’s expenses in relation to her duties and authorizes a meeting per diem of $100 per day for meetings over four hours.

2) The Board received the Consent Calendar as of September 13th, 2019

Committee or Commission Minutes/Recommendations:

1) The Board received the following Committee or Commission Minutes:

a) Policy Committee - August 22nd meeting

2) The Board adopted recommendations from its' Committees or Commissions, as follows:

a) Policy Committee (August 22nd meeting) -- Draft Grants for Assistance Policy; Proposed Media Relations Policy; Revised Social Media Policy and Cariboo Regional District Director Credit Card Policy

Invitations with No Funding:

1) The Board received an invitation from the University of British Columbia to attend UNBC's annual Donor Appreciation Evening in Prince George on October 3, 2019

2) The Board received an invitation to attend the Climate Strike and March taking place in Williams Lake on Friday, September 20, 2019

Corporate Bylaws:

1) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Reading to Cariboo Regional District Barlow Creek Fire Protection Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 5237, 2019

2) The Board agreed to adopt the following Bylaws:

a) Quesnel-Hixon Subdivision Erosion Protection Works Service Parcel Tax Bylaw No. 5243, 2019
b) Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area E Economic Development Service Establishment Bylaw No. 5235, 2019
c) Forest Grove Fire Protection Service Area Expansion Bylaw No. 5240, 2019

Also, the Board, at the request of Area 'D' Director S. Forseth, directed Staff to bring forward a bylaw to merge Areas D,E,F,J,K Economic Development Services into one new service called "Central Cariboo Economic Development Service" for implementation in 2020

Directors' Requests:

1) At the request of Area 'D' Director S. Forseth:

a) Received a memorandum from him in regards to Crime Activity in Rural Areas

Discussion suspended until after Delegations

Delegation:

John Kerr, representing Tatlayoko Think Tank, appeared before the Board to discuss rural broadband issues

A Question/Asnwer period ensued

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

Meeting recessed for lunch at 12:30pm
Meeting resumed at 12:55pm

Business, cont:
Directors Requests, cont:

The Board resumed consideration of a memorandum from Director Forseth in regards to crime levels in the Electoral Areas - after some time, it was resolved that the memorandum from Director Forseth be received and at the request of Director Richmond, that the 3 RCMP Detachment Commanders from Quesnel, Williams Lake and 100 Mile House be invited to a future Board meeting to discuss the issue of crime in the Electoral Areas

The Board deferred consideration of a request of Director Forseth to waive policy and approve up to $1,000 for crime watch signs in the McLeese Lake community until the Policy Committee reviews the Director Initiative Fund policy...

The Board received the activities report of Chair M. Wagner for the period up to September 11th, 2019

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

The Board agreed to adjourn at 1:45pm

Cariboo RD Committee of the Whole Session - Sept 12th

Present: Chair M. Wagner/Vice-Chair J. Massier and Directors M. Sjostrom, B. Bachmeier, S.Forseth, A. Delainey, M. LeBourdais, J. Glassford, G. Kirby, W. Macdonald, G. Fourchalk, B. Simpson, and M. Campsall 

The Chair called the meeting to order at 1:00pm

Meeting Location: Tatla Lake Community Hall (16451 Highway 20 - Area 'J')

Meeting Agenda approved
The Chair acknowledged that the meeting was taking place on traditional Tsilhqotin territory

Director G. Kirby (Area 'J' Director) welcomed the Committee to his Electoral Area

The Committee held a discussion on the following topics:

1) Landslides in the Electoral Areas
2) OCP Impacts to Property Owners
3) Voting Rules at Cariboo RD Board Meetings

The Committee adjourned at 4:00pm

Prescribed Burns coming for areas near Quesnel Lake/100 Mile House

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

1) 100 Mile House

BC Wildfire Service crews are planning to burn piles of woody debris in two locations southeast of 100 Mile House over the next six weeks to reduce wildfire risks in the area.

Smoke and flames from these controlled fires may be visible from 100 Mile House and surrounding communities.

This work is part of an ongoing series of fuel management projects. Cariboo Fire Centre crews have been piling up 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.

Bridge Lake Ice Caves:

Located on the southwest side of Bridge Lake, these pile burns will begin on Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2019, and continue periodically until Oct. 31, 2019.
Nolan Creek Provincial Park:

Located on the south side of Green Lake along Nolan Creek, these pile burns may begin as early as Sept. 16, 2019, and continue periodically until Oct. 31, 2019.

2) Quesnel Lake

The BC Wildfire Service plans to burn piles of woody debris on the southern shore of Quesnel Lake near Haggens Point, about one kilometre northeast of Klinne Lake.

This work is part of a fuel mitigation project to reduce wildfire risks. Crews will remove hazardous trees, pile up woody material and burn it to reduce the amount of fuel available if a wildfire occurs in the area.

The pile burning could begin as early as Monday, Sept. 16, 2019, and continue periodically until Oct. 31, 2019. Burning will occur only on days when site and weather conditions are favourable and will allow the smoke to dissipate. BC Wildfire Service personnel will be on-site and monitoring these fires.

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

Business and job seeker surveys to assess region’s labour market

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

Two surveys have opened as part of the Cariboo Chilcotin regional labour market study. The study is a partnership between the Cariboo Regional District, municipalities and First Nations in the Cariboo Chilcotin with the goal of identifying labour gaps and future job needs.

Local project representatives have been connecting with businesses in-person over the summer to complete the business survey. Telephone outreach will continue until Sept. 21 to random select businesses. To maximize participation, all businesses across the Regional District are encouraged to complete the survey through an online link.

The business survey seeks to gather input from business owners related to accessing labour, challenges in labour recruitment and labour impacts on future business decisions, training and skills needs. The survey closes Sept. 21, 2019. Take the business survey: 

https://surveys.tsp.ca/IntWeb.dll/Online/TSP19038/TSP19038W

A job seeker survey has also launched for people interested in new careers or that are currently not employed. This survey will provide job seekers with an opportunity to share their perspectives on employment opportunities and supports and services to assist them in securing employment.

The job seeker survey closes Oct. 15, 2019. By completing the survey, you will be entered to win a new laptop. Take the job seeker survey: www.jobseekersurvey.ca

To wrap up the study, an education and training sector roundtable discussion is scheduled for Oct. 21, 2019 in Williams Lake. Potential workshop participants will be contacted directly to ensure a broad representation of educational institutions and their appropriate faculty, staff and administration are invited.

The labour market study is a partnership between the CRD, the municipalities of Quesnel, Williams Lake, 100 Mile House and Wells, and member communities of Northern Secwepemc, Tŝilhqot’in and Southern Carrier/Dakelh First Nations. The project is funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia.

The study is being researched and written by MDB Insight (mdbinsight.com), a consulting firm that has worked extensively with communities, large and small, across Canada. The project is expected to be completed with a final draft in December 2019.

Read a Frequently Asked Questions document and learn more about the project at cariboord.ca/labourstudy

Margo Wagner - Chair of the Cariboo RD Board and Cariboo RD Area 'H' Director said:

“We have two main goals in this labour market study: One is to provide an assessment of current and forecasted labour market trends, opportunities and needs specific to the region. Secondly, the study will provide an evidence-based strategy to facilitate capacity building among the regional labour force and business sectors.

I encourage all our business owners and those looking for work to participate in these surveys to help us gain a solid perspective on the challenges our labour market is facing.”

43rd Canadian General Election underway!

Just a few minutes ago -- the 42nd Parliament of Canada was dissolved by Canada's Governor-General at the request of Justin Trudeau, Canada's Prime Minister

The date of the election is Monday, October 21st

As of this writing - here are the candidates in Cariboo-PG and Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo:

Cariboo-PG:

Todd Doherty - Conservative (incumbent)
Tracy Calogheros - Liberal
Mackenzie Kerr - Green Party
Jing Lan Yang (Young) - People's Party of Canada
Heather Sapergia - NDP

Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo:

Cathy MacLeod - Conservative (incumbent)
Dr. Terry Lake - Liberal
Ken Finlayson - People's Party of Canada
Iain Currie - Green Party of Canada
Peter Kerek - Communist Party
Dock Currie - NDP
Kira Cheeseborough - Animal Protection Party of Canada

Cariboo-PG covers the communities of Vanderhoof, Prince George, Quesnel, Williams Lake and within the Regional Districts' of Bulkley-Nechako, Fraser Fort George and Cariboo

Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo covers the communities of 100 Mile House, City of Kamloops and the rural communities outside of Kamloops and primarily covers the Regional Districts of Thompson-Nicola and Cariboo...

I expect that there will be plenty of all candidates forums in the next number of weeks for voters in Kamloops-Thompson-Cariboo and Cariboo-Prince George to make up their minds about their Member of Parliament for the period of 2019-2023

SF

Cat 2 open burning to be allowed in Cariboo region - Fri Sept 13th at 12pm

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

Effective at noon on Friday, Sept. 13, 2019, Category 2 open fires will once again be allowed throughout the Cariboo Fire Centre's jurisdiction due to a decreased wildfire risk in the region.

A map of the affected areas is available online: http://ow.ly/4lId30pvKsB

The rescinding of the current Category 2 prohibition will apply to all BC Parks, Crown lands and private lands, unless specified otherwise (e.g., in a local government bylaw). People are asked to check with local government authorities for any other restrictions before lighting any fire.

As of noon on Sept. 13, the following activities will be allowed within the Cariboo Fire Centre's jurisdiction:

* one to two concurrently burning piles no larger than two metres high by three metres wide;

* the burning of stubble or grass over an area less than 0.2 hectares;

* the use of sky lanterns;

* the use of fireworks, including firecrackers;

* the use of tiki torches and similar kinds of torches;

* the use of binary exploding targets (e.g., for target practice);

* the use of burn barrels or burn cages; and

* the use of air curtain burners.

However, larger Category 3 open fires will remain prohibited throughout the Cariboo Fire Centre until Sept. 27, 2019, or until the public is otherwise notified. A poster explaining the different categories of open burning is available online: http://ow.ly/znny309kJv5

Anyone found in contravention of an open burning prohibition may be issued a ticket for $1,150, required to pay an administrative penalty of up to $10,000 or, if convicted in court, fined up to $100,000 and/or sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person responsible may be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs, as well as the value of resources damaged or destroyed by the wildfire.

The Cariboo Fire Centre stretches from Loon Lake near Clinton in the south to the Cottonwood River near Quesnel in the north, and from Tweedsmuir Provincial Park in the west to Wells Gray Provincial Park in the east.

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

"The North Matters" - Williams Lake Event/Sept 15th at 1:30pm

I am posting this information for members of the public if they are interesting in attending the upcoming The North Matters Community Engagement Event in Williams Lake.  I will be attending to observe the discussions as will Walt Cobb, in a private citizen capacity and not as the Mayor of Williams Lake.  More here

Details about the event are below:

SF

2019 Firefighters National Memorial Day

Today is Firefighters National Memorial Day. 

Within Cariboo RD Area D - we have three fire departments, one aligned with the local regional district and two that are independent. These are based in Wildwood, Tyee Lake and McLeese Lake. I am thankful for all the volunteers that serve on the three fire departments along with those who serve in the BC Wildfire Service. 

Thank you for all you do and for those that give the ultimate sacrifice, thank you for your service in protecting your local community... 

~SF