Quesnel and Williams Lake City Councils will be holding meetings next week as follows:
Quesnel - Regular City Council meeting on Tuesday, Feb 4th at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Committee and Council Liaison Reports
* 2020 Council Committees and Appointments
* Age Friendly Initiative - Grant Application
* Northern Development Initiative Trust - New Programs
* Notice on Title (379 Doherty Drive)
* Temporary Borrowing Bylaw - New Public Works Facility Project
* Lease and Air Service Agreement - Central Mountain Air
* Cariboo Regional District/City of Quesnel - Renewal of Memorandum of Understanding
* Northern Development Initiatives Trust - Grant Applications
* Letter from FLNRORD - Invitation to Apply for a Community Forest Agreement
View the full Agenda here
Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, Feb 4th at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
* Delegation: WL RCMP Detachment Commander, Insp. Jeff Pelley re: Jan 2020 Police Commission Report
* River Valley Stormwater Management - Phase 6
* RC Cotton Trail - Suncor Parking Lot Lease
View the full Agenda here
Finally - next week, Electoral Area Directors' including many from the Cariboo Regional District including myself, will be attending the annual UBCM EA Director Forum in Richmond from Feb 4-5. The Final Agenda can be viewed here
Also - many BC local elected officials will be attending the 2020 LGLA or Local Government Leadership Academy's Annual Leadership Forum from Wednesday Feb 5 afternoon until noon on Friday, Feb 7th. The final Agenda for this Forum can be viewed here
Upon my return from Richmond -- I will publish a "Post Event" report covering my attendance at both the UBCM EA Director Forum & the 2020 LGLA Annual Leadership Forum
SF
Friday, January 31, 2020
Thursday, January 30, 2020
BREAKING: Donna Barnett will not seek re-election in 2021
Earlier this evening -- Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Donna Barnett issued the following statement:
I want to thank my family, my friends, constituents, colleagues, and many volunteers who have supported me since I first ran to become a member of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia.
Serving as the MLA for the Cariboo-Chilcotin has been both an honour and a privilege. I have enjoyed working with and for the wonderful constituents whom I serve.
We together have accomplished much, through many challenges, struggles and strife, but the resiliency of our people makes the Cariboo-Chilcotin a place we all call home.
I will not be running in the next Provincial Election, scheduled (but who knows?) for October 16, 2021.
I will continue to serve the constituents of the Cariboo-Chilcotin until the Provincial Election.
Remember, my door is always open.
I want to publicly recognize Donna and her very lengthy public service record of a Mayor, Cariboo RD Director and MLA for many, many years and the fact that she helps everyone, regardless of political persuasion and I defintely wish her well in her future endeavours...
I would imagine that we will see the BC Liberal Party 2021 election candidate for the provincial Cariboo-Chilcotin Electoral District determined by the end of this year...
SF
I want to thank my family, my friends, constituents, colleagues, and many volunteers who have supported me since I first ran to become a member of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia.
Serving as the MLA for the Cariboo-Chilcotin has been both an honour and a privilege. I have enjoyed working with and for the wonderful constituents whom I serve.
We together have accomplished much, through many challenges, struggles and strife, but the resiliency of our people makes the Cariboo-Chilcotin a place we all call home.
I will not be running in the next Provincial Election, scheduled (but who knows?) for October 16, 2021.
I will continue to serve the constituents of the Cariboo-Chilcotin until the Provincial Election.
Remember, my door is always open.
I want to publicly recognize Donna and her very lengthy public service record of a Mayor, Cariboo RD Director and MLA for many, many years and the fact that she helps everyone, regardless of political persuasion and I defintely wish her well in her future endeavours...
I would imagine that we will see the BC Liberal Party 2021 election candidate for the provincial Cariboo-Chilcotin Electoral District determined by the end of this year...
SF
Task force proposes technology, innovation to grow B.C.’s agriculture sector
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
B.C.’s Food Security Task Force has provided recommendations to government outlining new ways to use technology and innovation to strengthen B.C.’s economy and the agriculture sector, today and for generations to come.
“The recommendations released today by the Food Security Task Force will help grow more food and more jobs in B.C.’s strong agriculture sector,” said BC Premier John Horgan. “By embracing innovation and using new technologies, we can make sure our province is supplying a bounty of delicious and affordable food to people for generations to come. I thank the members of the task force for their work on this important report.”
The task force’s findings include:
- applying the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals to agricultural policies;
- establishing an incubation/acceleration strategy for B.C.’s agritech sector;
- creating an agriculture and agritech institute in B.C. in partnership with post-secondary institutions; and
- reviewing land-use planning policies and regulations to ensure B.C.’s agritech sector has a place to grow.
“Our government recognizes the tremendous potential of applying new technologies to agriculture to help strengthen the sector,” said the Hon. Lana Popham, BC's Minister of Agriculture. “Targeted initiatives, such as the Agritech Innovation Challenge, ongoing connections with major strategic agritech cluster areas, regional food innovation hubs and cost-shared funding through the Canadian Agriculture Partnership align with the recommendations of the task force and will help the agriculture industry continue to thrive in British Columbia.”
The three-member task force was led by Peter Dhillon as chair, with Arvind Gupta and Lenore Newman. The task force was mandated to make recommendations that support food security and the economic growth of B.C.’s agricultural sector, focusing on the following three areas:
- Using technology and innovation to increase competitiveness, efficiency and profitability.
- Growing the agritech industry as a standalone economic sector capable of developing technologies that will be applicable both locally and globally.
- Supporting the development and application of technologies that can protect the industry against the effects of climate change and support environmentally sustainable agricultural practices.
Raghwa Gopal, president and CEO, Innovate BC, participated on the task force as an ex-officio member.
“We are excited to have the report released to the public and hope that British Columbians will take an interest in thinking about how the future of our food system has significant potential to provide a consistent, high-quality and affordable supply of food anywhere in the province, all year round,” said Dhillon. “Our recommendations are intended to build on B.C.’s bold leadership in protecting the environment and help increase food security in the face of climate change.”
From July 11 to Oct. 15, 2019, British Columbians were invited to share their views on ways in which B.C. can harness new technologies and innovations to efficiently produce more food, jobs and prosperity, while reducing waste. Almost 450 people, ranging from farmers, consumers and others involved in the industry, participated in the online survey. The task force also met in-person with over 100 people from the agriculture industry, as well as the business and academic communities in B.C. and elsewhere. This input was considered as part of the task force’s final report.
“Technology opens up exciting possibilities for the future of food production in B.C.,” said the Hon. Michelle Mungall, BC's Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Competitiveness. “With a strong tech sector and top-notch talent, we are well positioned to develop solutions that advance agriculture in our province and enhance economic prosperity for everyone.”
Quick Facts:
- The 2019 speech from the throne mentioned the B.C. government would launch a food security task force to consider how B.C. can harness new technologies and innovation to produce more food, jobs and prosperity, while reducing waste.
- Dhillon is active in several business enterprises, including serving as the CEO of the Richberry Group of Companies, an agribusiness enterprise with operations in British Columbia and Quebec.
- Gupta is a professor of computer science at the University of Toronto and at the University of British Columbia (UBC). He has served as president and vice-chancellor of UBC, and as the CEO and scientific director of Mitacs Inc.
- Newman is the director of the Food and Agriculture Institute at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) where she holds a Canada Research Chair in food security and environment. She is an associate professor in the department of geography and the environment at UFV and a member of the Royal Society of Canada's New College of Scholars.
Learn More:
Food Security Task Force Report: https://engage.gov.bc.ca/govtogetherbc/impact/food-security-task-force-results/
New program helps keep organic waste out of landfills
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
People in communities throughout British Columbia will soon benefit from expanded composting facilities that will reduce the amount of organic material sent to B.C. landfills, create jobs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
To ensure B.C. communities are clean and healthy places to live, the Province is partnering with the federal and local governments on the new Organics Infrastructure Program. The $30-million program will help communities expand their infrastructure, diverting organic waste away from landfills. It will also help the Province meet its CleanBC commitment to help communities achieve 95% organic waste diversion for agricultural, industrial and municipal waste.
“This program will help communities, the Province and Canada meet our shared climate action goals,” said the Hon. George Heyman, B.C.'s Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. “It will also help build B.C.’s clean economy by creating green jobs and setting the stage for the economic opportunities that come from the reuse of organic materials.”
Organic waste currently represents 40% of material sent to municipal landfills in B.C. and generates 7.5% of the province's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In total, the projects are expected to reduce nearly 300,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent over the next decade. This is like removing more than 100,000 cars from the roads for a year.
“Investing in better infrastructure for waste management will divert organic waste from municipal landfills and turn it into clean and useful compost,” said Jonathan Wilkinson, federal Minister of Environment and Climate Change. “Initiatives such as this one are key to fighting climate change and helping us reach net-zero emissions by 2050. I congratulate the Province of British Columbia for its leadership in this effort.”
The Organics Infrastructure Program combines $10 million in federal funding from the Low Carbon Economy Leadership Fund, $10 million from the Province and $10 million in matching funds from local government applicants and their partners. Among the projects are two from the Central Kootenay Regional District — Central landfill composting facility and the Creston landfill composting facility — that, together, provide the region with food-waste processing capacity for the first time. Another recipient is the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality’s worm composting facility. It will divert organic waste from Fort Nelson's landfill and create high-quality soil.
“These new projects will improve organics diversion across the province,” said Maja Tait, President, Union of B.C. Municipalities. “The result will be reduced GHG emissions from landfills, moving the needle forward in the attainment of CleanBC goals. I am very appreciative of the continuing support provided by the federal and provincial governments to expand organics infrastructure in B.C. communities.”
Twelve projects have finalized agreements to date. Additional projects are expected to come on board in the coming months. The initial projects are expected to break ground starting in the spring.
CleanBC is the province's pathway to a more prosperous, balanced and sustainable future. It was developed in collaboration with the BC Green Party caucus, and supports the commitment in the Confidence and Supply Agreement to implement climate action to meet B.C.’s emission targets.
Learn More:
For more information on the Organics Infrastructure Program, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/waste-management/food-and-organic-waste/organic-waste-diversion/organics-infrastructure-program
Backgrounder on this item can be viewed here
NDIT releases 2019 State of the North Economic Report
Courtesy of the Northern Development Initiative Trust:
The 2019 State of the North Economic Report published today highlights a wealth of new data on Northern B.C.’s key sectors, including regional profiles.
The report, which was independently researched by MNP, indicates the short-term outlook for the northern economy is mixed at best as the region welcomes significant energy investment thanks to Site C and LNG Canada, but is challenged with a deepening decline in the interior forest sector.
The unemployment rate in the region remains 1.1 per cent higher in Northern B.C. than the B.C. total, but is still relatively low at 5.8 per cent overall, with improvements in the Northwest and North Central region in the first nine months of 2019 compared with 2018.
On a sector by sector basis, the short-term outlook for mining, oil and gas and tourism is up, while agriculture remains unknown due to trade concerns and weather patterns and forestry is expected to continue to decline.
For this year’s report, MNP included new data that highlights the transition in B.C.’s rural economy. The data shows that although natural resource sectors continue to generate significant GDP for the province, employment in those sectors has been on a continual decline over the past generation as each sector automates and adopts new technology for more efficient operations.
The outlook to 2040, on a region by region basis, points to shifting demographics and slower population growth in the north compared with B.C. as a whole as urban areas in the southwest corner of the province are expected to continue to see outsize growth in the years ahead.
Despite these challenges, the near-term outlook for the north sees an upside forecast in new business formations and housing starts, signalling that major projects, primarily led by the oil and gas sector, are driving development in key parts of Northern B.C.
“This year’s report really sheds light on what we’ve been hearing anecdotally for years – that the rural economy is transitioning to a new mode of operation, albeit at a slower pace than Canada’s major urban centres,” said Joel McKay, Chief Executive Officer. “For us, it highlights the continued need to support our natural resource sectors wherever possible, invest in diversification and knowledge-based job opportunities and support our communities to ensure they’re attractive, vibrant places well-positioned for long-term sustainability.”
View the 2019 State of the North Economic Report here
The 2019 State of the North Economic Report published today highlights a wealth of new data on Northern B.C.’s key sectors, including regional profiles.
The report, which was independently researched by MNP, indicates the short-term outlook for the northern economy is mixed at best as the region welcomes significant energy investment thanks to Site C and LNG Canada, but is challenged with a deepening decline in the interior forest sector.
The unemployment rate in the region remains 1.1 per cent higher in Northern B.C. than the B.C. total, but is still relatively low at 5.8 per cent overall, with improvements in the Northwest and North Central region in the first nine months of 2019 compared with 2018.
On a sector by sector basis, the short-term outlook for mining, oil and gas and tourism is up, while agriculture remains unknown due to trade concerns and weather patterns and forestry is expected to continue to decline.
For this year’s report, MNP included new data that highlights the transition in B.C.’s rural economy. The data shows that although natural resource sectors continue to generate significant GDP for the province, employment in those sectors has been on a continual decline over the past generation as each sector automates and adopts new technology for more efficient operations.
The outlook to 2040, on a region by region basis, points to shifting demographics and slower population growth in the north compared with B.C. as a whole as urban areas in the southwest corner of the province are expected to continue to see outsize growth in the years ahead.
Despite these challenges, the near-term outlook for the north sees an upside forecast in new business formations and housing starts, signalling that major projects, primarily led by the oil and gas sector, are driving development in key parts of Northern B.C.
“This year’s report really sheds light on what we’ve been hearing anecdotally for years – that the rural economy is transitioning to a new mode of operation, albeit at a slower pace than Canada’s major urban centres,” said Joel McKay, Chief Executive Officer. “For us, it highlights the continued need to support our natural resource sectors wherever possible, invest in diversification and knowledge-based job opportunities and support our communities to ensure they’re attractive, vibrant places well-positioned for long-term sustainability.”
View the 2019 State of the North Economic Report here
BC Natural Resources Forum 2020 - Day 2 of 2
Today is the last day of #BCNRF20 or the 2020 BC Natural Resources Forum
On the Agenda:
* State of the North Report -- Joel McKay, CEO, Northern Development Initiative Trust
* Opening Keynote Address | James Thompson, Vice-President, Western Region, CN
* Panel 4 – Global Leadership in Sustainable Forest Management
* Panel 5 – Fresh Perspectives from Tomorrow’s Leaders
* Keynote Luncheon | Chief Councillor Crystal Smith, Haisla Nation
* Panel 6 – Tapping BC’s Potential as an Energy Leader
This morning, I will be also participating in Geoscience BC's Central Interior Copper Gold Research which will provide an update on its' research including in the areas of Gibraltar Mines and Mt Polley
After the BC Natural Resources Forum adjourns at 3:30pm today -- I will be remaining in Prince George in order to participate in NCLGA or North Central Local Government Association Committee/Board Meetings tomorrow afternoon and Saturday....
On the Agenda:
* State of the North Report -- Joel McKay, CEO, Northern Development Initiative Trust
* Opening Keynote Address | James Thompson, Vice-President, Western Region, CN
* Panel 4 – Global Leadership in Sustainable Forest Management
* Panel 5 – Fresh Perspectives from Tomorrow’s Leaders
* Keynote Luncheon | Chief Councillor Crystal Smith, Haisla Nation
* Panel 6 – Tapping BC’s Potential as an Energy Leader
This morning, I will be also participating in Geoscience BC's Central Interior Copper Gold Research which will provide an update on its' research including in the areas of Gibraltar Mines and Mt Polley
After the BC Natural Resources Forum adjourns at 3:30pm today -- I will be remaining in Prince George in order to participate in NCLGA or North Central Local Government Association Committee/Board Meetings tomorrow afternoon and Saturday....
Wednesday, January 29, 2020
Kraft Hockeyville Competition
Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:
Do you want to win $250,000 to improve our arenas at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex?
The City of Williams Lake has entered the Kraft Hockeyville 2020 competition and we need your support.
To win a place in the competition we need everyone to go online and share stories about what hockey and the arena means to you.
We receive points in the following 4 ways:
10 point for shared stories at www.williamslake.ca/krafthockeyville
5 points for sharing our Hockeyville page on Twitter using the share button
3 points for uploading photos of our arena at www.williamslake.ca/krafthockeyville
And 1 point for adding a note or an emoji at www.williamslake.ca/krafthockeyville
Stories will be judged on the following criteria:
Depiction of the nominated community’s spirit and passion for hockey (40%)
Description of the Arena’s importance within the community and how the prize money would be used (40%)
Description of why your community should be the next Kraft Hockeyville (20%)
We have 12 days to make this happen, the closing date is February 9.
We ask that everyone please take the time to participate, and share this information with their friends and family.
The Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex will be hosting a FREE SKATE on Saturday, February 1st from 1:45pm – 3:15 pm in celebration of the contest and our community. Wear your favourite hockey jersey and join us on the ice!
The City would like to thank you for your support as we all work together to showcase the amazing passion that Williams Lake has for hockey!
Do you want to win $250,000 to improve our arenas at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex?
The City of Williams Lake has entered the Kraft Hockeyville 2020 competition and we need your support.
To win a place in the competition we need everyone to go online and share stories about what hockey and the arena means to you.
We receive points in the following 4 ways:
10 point for shared stories at www.williamslake.ca/krafthockeyville
5 points for sharing our Hockeyville page on Twitter using the share button
3 points for uploading photos of our arena at www.williamslake.ca/krafthockeyville
And 1 point for adding a note or an emoji at www.williamslake.ca/krafthockeyville
Stories will be judged on the following criteria:
Depiction of the nominated community’s spirit and passion for hockey (40%)
Description of the Arena’s importance within the community and how the prize money would be used (40%)
Description of why your community should be the next Kraft Hockeyville (20%)
We have 12 days to make this happen, the closing date is February 9.
We ask that everyone please take the time to participate, and share this information with their friends and family.
The Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex will be hosting a FREE SKATE on Saturday, February 1st from 1:45pm – 3:15 pm in celebration of the contest and our community. Wear your favourite hockey jersey and join us on the ice!
The City would like to thank you for your support as we all work together to showcase the amazing passion that Williams Lake has for hockey!
BC Natural Resources Forum 2020 - Day 1 of 2
Good morning from Prince George:
Today is Day 1 of 2 of the 2020 BC Natural Resources Forum. On the Agenda today:
* Resource Ministers’ Breakfast (Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations & Rural Development; Indigenous Relations & Reconciliation; Environment & Climate Change Strategy and Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources
* Official Conference Opening
* Opening Keynote Addresses (Regional Chief Terry Teegee, British Columbia Assembly of First Nations & Affonso Bizon, General Manager, Rio Tinto BC Works)
* Panel 1 – A Collective Vision for BC’s Mining Sector
* Keynote Luncheon: BC Premier John Horgan
* Panel 2 – Cross-Sector CEO Outlooks
* Panel 3 - Prosperity Through Partnerships
Have a wonderful Wednesday,
SF
Today is Day 1 of 2 of the 2020 BC Natural Resources Forum. On the Agenda today:
* Resource Ministers’ Breakfast (Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations & Rural Development; Indigenous Relations & Reconciliation; Environment & Climate Change Strategy and Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources
* Official Conference Opening
* Opening Keynote Addresses (Regional Chief Terry Teegee, British Columbia Assembly of First Nations & Affonso Bizon, General Manager, Rio Tinto BC Works)
* Panel 1 – A Collective Vision for BC’s Mining Sector
* Keynote Luncheon: BC Premier John Horgan
* Panel 2 – Cross-Sector CEO Outlooks
* Panel 3 - Prosperity Through Partnerships
Have a wonderful Wednesday,
SF
Tuesday, January 28, 2020
Quesnel's Executive Committee/SD27 Board Meets today
Quesnel Council's Executive Committee meets this morning at 9am in the Fraser Room (4th Floor - 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Upcoming Community Engagement
* Southern Dakelh Nation Alliance - plans for a nation centre on the old Quesnel Junior Secondary site
* Follow-up to the Premier’s visit to Quesnel on January 21, 2020
* United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) Legislation
The full Committee meeting Agenda can be viewed here. Also, the Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee of Quesnel Council meets this afternoon at 3:15pm in the Fraser Room (view that Committee's Meeting Agenda here) with a Quesnel City Council meeting commencing at 6pm this evening in Quesnel Council Chambers (view their meeting Agenda here)
Meanwhile - down in Williams Lake, the first meeting of the Board of Education for School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) will commence this evening at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake). The Board's Meeting Agenda can be viewed here
Also - Williams Lake City Council meets this evening at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). Their Meeting Agenda can be viewed here
SF
* Upcoming Community Engagement
* Southern Dakelh Nation Alliance - plans for a nation centre on the old Quesnel Junior Secondary site
* Follow-up to the Premier’s visit to Quesnel on January 21, 2020
* United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) Legislation
The full Committee meeting Agenda can be viewed here. Also, the Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee of Quesnel Council meets this afternoon at 3:15pm in the Fraser Room (view that Committee's Meeting Agenda here) with a Quesnel City Council meeting commencing at 6pm this evening in Quesnel Council Chambers (view their meeting Agenda here)
Meanwhile - down in Williams Lake, the first meeting of the Board of Education for School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) will commence this evening at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake). The Board's Meeting Agenda can be viewed here
Also - Williams Lake City Council meets this evening at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). Their Meeting Agenda can be viewed here
SF
Monday, January 27, 2020
New residential options proposed for ALR Land!
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
The Province is proposing more residential flexibility for people living in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) as outlined in a new policy intentions paper released Jan. 27, 2020, by the Ministry of Agriculture.
In order to support farmers and non-farmers living in the ALR, government is considering regulatory changes to enable landowners to have both a principal residence and a small secondary residence on their property, provided they have approval from their local government. ALR property owners would not be required to apply to the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) for approval.
“We are continuing to do the work necessary to help farmers farm and protect farmland for future generations,” said the Hon. Lana Popham, BC's Minister of Agriculture. “The ALR is B.C.’s best food-producing land, and is just 5% of our province’s land base – it’s so important for food security. The proposed changes, if implemented, would provide additional residential flexibility in the ALR. Publicly sharing this proposed policy direction now gives those interested an opportunity to review and comment, leading to better outcomes. We recognize that rules by the previous government do not reflect the needs of British Columbians and as a result, we are proposing to allow more flexibility for small secondary residences. Under the proposal, a small secondary residence would be available for farm-workers, family members or anyone else, provided there is local government approval.”
The new ALR residential options and specific conditions with each option such as size, siting, and quantity being considered by government include:
- garden suites, guest houses or carriage suites;
- accommodation above an existing building;
- manufactured homes; and
- permitting a principal residence to be constructed in addition to a manufactured home that was formerly a principal residence.
The Province would not require the small secondary residence be a manufactured home only for an immediate family member, as was the case in regulations under the previous government. The new residential options do not include reconsideration of the maximum size of a principal residence. The ALC will remain the decision maker for additional residences for farm use in the ALR. Any new permitted secondary residences should be registered with the ALC for long-term land-use planning purposes.
The policy intensions paper resulted from collaborative work with the Union of B.C. Municipalities, the ALC and the BC Agriculture Council, and responds to feedback the ministry heard during recent public consultations. The policy direction is also guided by the results of the Minister of Agriculture’s Advisory Committee on ALR Revitalization. People are asked to provide their feedback by April 17, 2020, on the residential options via email: ALR_ALCRevitalization@gov.bc.ca
While the ministry finalizes its policy direction, the grandfathering period for manufactured homes in the ALR for immediate family members has been extended to Dec. 31, 2020. This means people wishing to place manufactured homes on their ALR property will be required to get the necessary permits and authorizations from their local governments, but do not have to apply to the ALC for approval.
Quick Facts:
- During the 2019 public engagement, 613 British Columbians registered to participate in the eight in-person sessions.
- The ministry received 1,580 online survey submissions, 87 personal submissions and 19 formal submissions from associations, farmers’ institutes and local governments.
- Farmers have always had the option to build additional residences in the ALR (two, three or more), provided they are needed for farming and have approval from the local government and the ALC.
- The primary use of ALR land is agriculture, therefore additional residences must minimize disturbance to farm land.
Learn More:
Read the Ministry of Agriculture Policy Intentions Paper: Residential Flexibility in the ALR: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/agricultural-land-and-environment/agricultural-land-reserve
Read the What We Heard report from the 2019 public engagement: https://engage.gov.bc.ca/govtogetherbc/impact/supporting-b-c-farmers-results/
Saturday, January 25, 2020
Friday, January 24, 2020
Local Government Mtgs - Wk of Jan 27-31
Next week - the following local governments' of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will meet, as follows:
Quesnel:
Financial Sustainability/Audit - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, January 28th at 3:15pm in the Fraser Room at Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* 2020 City of Quesnel Operating Budget (Draft 1)
* Letter from IG Wealth Management - Request for business classification review
View the full Agenda here
Municipal Council - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, January 28th at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Adopt Minutes of Quesnel Council Meeting of January 7th, 2020
* In-Camera Session in the Fraser Room to cover:
a) Water Conservation Strategy and Water Treatment Options: Sections 90(1k - Negotiations and related discussions respecting the proposed provision of a City service) and 90(2b - The consideration of information received and held in confidence relating to negotiations between the City and a Provincial government or Federal government or both and a third party) of the Community Charter
b) Food Hub Facility - Possible Locations: Section 90(1e - Acquisition, disposition or expropriation of land or improvements) of the Community Charter
Williams Lake: Regular City Council Meeting on Tuesday, January 28th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
* Council to authorize submission of a number of Grant applications
* Letter to Crown (BC Prosecution Service) re GPS Electronic Monitoring
* Letter of Support for Blue Fins Swim Club NDIT Grant Application
* Letter of Support from Williams Lake RCMP Officer in Charge re Electronic Monitoring Program in Williams Lake
* Endorsement of Proclamation for Heritage Week -- Feb 17-23, 2020
* In-Camera Report #01-2020 -- Appointment of Acting Corporate Officer (R. Schill)
View the full Agenda here
Finally - a number of local elected officials from the Cariboo-Chilcotin, including myself, will be attending the 2020 BC Natural Resources Forum in Prince George from the evening of January 28th until the afternoon of Thursday, January 30th. As is my usual practice -- I will post a "Post Event" report outlining my activities at the 2020 BC Natural Resources Forum for your reading pleasure following the conclusion of the Forum!
SF
Quesnel:
Financial Sustainability/Audit - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, January 28th at 3:15pm in the Fraser Room at Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* 2020 City of Quesnel Operating Budget (Draft 1)
* Letter from IG Wealth Management - Request for business classification review
View the full Agenda here
Municipal Council - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, January 28th at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:
* Adopt Minutes of Quesnel Council Meeting of January 7th, 2020
* In-Camera Session in the Fraser Room to cover:
a) Water Conservation Strategy and Water Treatment Options: Sections 90(1k - Negotiations and related discussions respecting the proposed provision of a City service) and 90(2b - The consideration of information received and held in confidence relating to negotiations between the City and a Provincial government or Federal government or both and a third party) of the Community Charter
b) Food Hub Facility - Possible Locations: Section 90(1e - Acquisition, disposition or expropriation of land or improvements) of the Community Charter
Williams Lake: Regular City Council Meeting on Tuesday, January 28th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
* Council to authorize submission of a number of Grant applications
* Letter to Crown (BC Prosecution Service) re GPS Electronic Monitoring
* Letter of Support for Blue Fins Swim Club NDIT Grant Application
* Letter of Support from Williams Lake RCMP Officer in Charge re Electronic Monitoring Program in Williams Lake
* Endorsement of Proclamation for Heritage Week -- Feb 17-23, 2020
* In-Camera Report #01-2020 -- Appointment of Acting Corporate Officer (R. Schill)
View the full Agenda here
Finally - a number of local elected officials from the Cariboo-Chilcotin, including myself, will be attending the 2020 BC Natural Resources Forum in Prince George from the evening of January 28th until the afternoon of Thursday, January 30th. As is my usual practice -- I will post a "Post Event" report outlining my activities at the 2020 BC Natural Resources Forum for your reading pleasure following the conclusion of the Forum!
SF
Cariboo RD 2020 Budget available for review
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
The Cariboo Regional District’s 2020 budget has been drafted and the Board is looking for public input before the final version is adopted. An easy-to-understand summary of the budget has been developed and residents are encouraged to review the summary and provide their feedback.
“Creating a budget is a balancing act. As we review each service, we aim to provide a quality cost-effective service while working to maintain our infrastructure and keep our funding sustainable,” states CRD Chair Margo Wagner.
For 2020, the CRD’s budget is increasing from $48.9 million to $50.1 million, which is a 2.45% increase. In terms of taxation, the CRD is proposing collecting 4.5% more taxes than 2019.
The majority of the CRD’s services are seeing no tax increase or a minimal tax increase to account for inflation. However, there are a few services seeing notable tax increases in 2020. Those services include:
Forest Grove Fire Protection;
Lac La Hache Fire Protection;
Ten Mile Lake Fire Protection;
Central Cariboo Search and Rescue;
Emergency Planning;
McLeese Lake Recreation;
Electoral Area Administration;
General Administration; and
Governance.
Explanations for the tax increases in each of these services are included in the 2020 budget summary on our budget webpage.
“As we plan and finalize our budget, we want to hear from our residents about what they think of our service levels and the value they receive from their taxes,” Wagner adds.
Review the CRD’s budget documents and provide feedback by March 11, 2020. The Board will consider all feedback prior to the budget’s final adoption on March 27, 2020.
To send feedback, email mailbox@cariboord.ca or call the Chief Financial Officer at 250-392-3351.
Visit cariboord.ca/budget for more information:
A summary document of the CRD’s 2020 budget for details on the proposed tax increases and the reasons for them.
A chart outlining the proposed tax rates for each of the CRD’s 125 services.
The 2020 business plans for each service.
A detailed report on the CRD’s draft five-year financial plan (2020-2024).
Paper copies of the budget documents are available for viewing at all three CRD offices and in the CRD Branch Libraries in 100 Mile House, Quesnel and Williams Lake.
The Cariboo Regional District’s 2020 budget has been drafted and the Board is looking for public input before the final version is adopted. An easy-to-understand summary of the budget has been developed and residents are encouraged to review the summary and provide their feedback.
“Creating a budget is a balancing act. As we review each service, we aim to provide a quality cost-effective service while working to maintain our infrastructure and keep our funding sustainable,” states CRD Chair Margo Wagner.
For 2020, the CRD’s budget is increasing from $48.9 million to $50.1 million, which is a 2.45% increase. In terms of taxation, the CRD is proposing collecting 4.5% more taxes than 2019.
The majority of the CRD’s services are seeing no tax increase or a minimal tax increase to account for inflation. However, there are a few services seeing notable tax increases in 2020. Those services include:
Forest Grove Fire Protection;
Lac La Hache Fire Protection;
Ten Mile Lake Fire Protection;
Central Cariboo Search and Rescue;
Emergency Planning;
McLeese Lake Recreation;
Electoral Area Administration;
General Administration; and
Governance.
Explanations for the tax increases in each of these services are included in the 2020 budget summary on our budget webpage.
“As we plan and finalize our budget, we want to hear from our residents about what they think of our service levels and the value they receive from their taxes,” Wagner adds.
Review the CRD’s budget documents and provide feedback by March 11, 2020. The Board will consider all feedback prior to the budget’s final adoption on March 27, 2020.
To send feedback, email mailbox@cariboord.ca or call the Chief Financial Officer at 250-392-3351.
Visit cariboord.ca/budget for more information:
A summary document of the CRD’s 2020 budget for details on the proposed tax increases and the reasons for them.
A chart outlining the proposed tax rates for each of the CRD’s 125 services.
The 2020 business plans for each service.
A detailed report on the CRD’s draft five-year financial plan (2020-2024).
Paper copies of the budget documents are available for viewing at all three CRD offices and in the CRD Branch Libraries in 100 Mile House, Quesnel and Williams Lake.
Wednesday, January 22, 2020
Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus Highlights - Jan 22nd mtg
Present: Directors' S. Forseth, A. Delainey, G. Kirby and C. Mernett
Meeting called to order at 3:05pm
The Deputy Corporate Officer called for nominations for Chair of the Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus for 2020
Director Delainey nominated Director Forseth. Director Forseth accepted the nomination
No other nominations were received by the Deputy Corporate Officer and accordingly declared Director S. Forseth acclaimed as Chair of the Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus for 2020
Director S. Forseth took the Chair at 3:06pm
The Chair acknowledged that today's meeting is taking place on traditional Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) territory
Meeting agenda approved, as amended
Minutes of the Caucus meeting held on November 18th, 2019 was received/adopted
Delegation:
1) Guillermo Angel and Ian James from the City of Williams Lake appeared before the Caucus to discuss the opportunity to participate in the 2020 Kraft Hockeyville competition
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair thanked the delegation for their time/information
Resolved -- That the request to participate in the 2020 Kraft Hockeyville competition be approved
Business:
1) 2020 Meeting Schedule
Caucus had before it a report of the Deputy Corporate Officer
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the proposed 2020 Meeting Schedule for Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus meetings be approved, as presented (every 4th Wednesday except July/August and December annually)
2) 2020 Info Fair & Directors Meetings
Caucus had before it a report of the Manager of Communications
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That further consideration of this report be deferred until the next meeting
3) Central Cariboo Appointments for 2020
Caucus had before it a report of the Deputy Corporate Officer
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the following appointments be made:
Central Cariboo Arts/Culture Society & Williams Lake/District Chamber of Commerce -- Director S. Forseth
WL Air Quality Roundtable -- Director M. LeBourdais
UNBC Advisory Committee -- Director A. Delainey
4) Terms of Reference - Central Cariboo Rural Caucus
Caucus had before it a report of the Deputy Corporate Officer
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received and the Terms of Reference be amended as discussed (who to contact if unable to attend Caucus for purposes of quorum & clarify language about governance at Caucus - consensus decision making)
5) Central Cariboo Housing Study Information
Caucus had before it a report of the Chief Administrative Officer
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved -- That the report of the CAO be received and that Director S. Forseth be appointed as Co-Chair of the Central Cariboo Housing Capacity and Gap Analysis Technical Committee and the CAO appoint a staff liaison to the Technical Committee
6) Amendment to Riske Creek VFD Grant for Assistance
Caucus had before it a letter from Mike Elvin, President of the Riske Creek Volunteer Fire Department, regarding an amendment to the department's Grant for Assistance application
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Letter received and that a Grant for Assistance in the amount of $1,492.09 be approved for the Riske Creek VFD Society and to be charged to the Area 'K' Grant for Assistance Fund, subject to legal review
7) WL Curling Club - Request for Letter of Support
Caucus had before it a letter from Williams Lake Curling Club President, Mike Pedersen requesting a letter of support for their grant applications
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Letter received and that a letter of support be authorized
8) Discussion Items
a) Economic Development Funding for Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce
General discussion - no resolution resulted
b) 2020 PowWow Event
Director Delainey and the Manager of Community Services reported on this item
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received and that Caucus recommend that the Board authorize $8000 from the Community Works Fund for the 2020 Powwow Event in Williams Lake
9) Action Page
Resolved - Action Page received and that Item #1 be removed
Caucus adjourned at 4:18pm
Meeting called to order at 3:05pm
The Deputy Corporate Officer called for nominations for Chair of the Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus for 2020
Director Delainey nominated Director Forseth. Director Forseth accepted the nomination
No other nominations were received by the Deputy Corporate Officer and accordingly declared Director S. Forseth acclaimed as Chair of the Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus for 2020
Director S. Forseth took the Chair at 3:06pm
The Chair acknowledged that today's meeting is taking place on traditional Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) territory
Meeting agenda approved, as amended
Minutes of the Caucus meeting held on November 18th, 2019 was received/adopted
Delegation:
1) Guillermo Angel and Ian James from the City of Williams Lake appeared before the Caucus to discuss the opportunity to participate in the 2020 Kraft Hockeyville competition
A Question/Answer period ensued
The Chair thanked the delegation for their time/information
Resolved -- That the request to participate in the 2020 Kraft Hockeyville competition be approved
Business:
1) 2020 Meeting Schedule
Caucus had before it a report of the Deputy Corporate Officer
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the proposed 2020 Meeting Schedule for Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus meetings be approved, as presented (every 4th Wednesday except July/August and December annually)
2) 2020 Info Fair & Directors Meetings
Caucus had before it a report of the Manager of Communications
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That further consideration of this report be deferred until the next meeting
3) Central Cariboo Appointments for 2020
Caucus had before it a report of the Deputy Corporate Officer
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - That the following appointments be made:
Central Cariboo Arts/Culture Society & Williams Lake/District Chamber of Commerce -- Director S. Forseth
WL Air Quality Roundtable -- Director M. LeBourdais
UNBC Advisory Committee -- Director A. Delainey
4) Terms of Reference - Central Cariboo Rural Caucus
Caucus had before it a report of the Deputy Corporate Officer
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received and the Terms of Reference be amended as discussed (who to contact if unable to attend Caucus for purposes of quorum & clarify language about governance at Caucus - consensus decision making)
5) Central Cariboo Housing Study Information
Caucus had before it a report of the Chief Administrative Officer
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved -- That the report of the CAO be received and that Director S. Forseth be appointed as Co-Chair of the Central Cariboo Housing Capacity and Gap Analysis Technical Committee and the CAO appoint a staff liaison to the Technical Committee
6) Amendment to Riske Creek VFD Grant for Assistance
Caucus had before it a letter from Mike Elvin, President of the Riske Creek Volunteer Fire Department, regarding an amendment to the department's Grant for Assistance application
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Letter received and that a Grant for Assistance in the amount of $1,492.09 be approved for the Riske Creek VFD Society and to be charged to the Area 'K' Grant for Assistance Fund, subject to legal review
7) WL Curling Club - Request for Letter of Support
Caucus had before it a letter from Williams Lake Curling Club President, Mike Pedersen requesting a letter of support for their grant applications
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Letter received and that a letter of support be authorized
8) Discussion Items
a) Economic Development Funding for Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce
General discussion - no resolution resulted
b) 2020 PowWow Event
Director Delainey and the Manager of Community Services reported on this item
Discussion ensued thereon
Resolved - Report received and that Caucus recommend that the Board authorize $8000 from the Community Works Fund for the 2020 Powwow Event in Williams Lake
9) Action Page
Resolved - Action Page received and that Item #1 be removed
Caucus adjourned at 4:18pm
Aligning our priorities
Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:
Editor's Note -- Weekly Quesnel City Council column written by Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson. He can be reached via email here
Editor's Note -- Weekly Quesnel City Council column written by Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson. He can be reached via email here
This week we had the opportunity to sit down with the Premier of British Columbia for an extended conversation about our region’s challenges and strategic initiatives. This meeting represented an unprecedented opportunity for the North Cariboo’s local governments and first nations leaders to discuss face to face with the Premier how we can better align our priorities, initiatives and programs in order to achieve maximum benefit for our constituents and ensure our region remains resilient during this challenging transition period.
The 15-minute speed dating with Provincial Ministers we get each year at the Union of BC Municipalities Conference doesn’t really allow City Council the kind of wide-ranging conversation we had with the Premier this week, nor enable us to have our First Nations partners in the room with us.
The first meeting we had with the Premier this week was held in our new Forestry Innovation Centre and involved the Chiefs from Lhtako and Nazko Nations, the Cariboo Regional District Chair, myself and members of Council, along with staff from the City, Southern Dakelh Nation Alliance, Ministry of Forests, Ministry of Indigenous Relations, and the Northern Development Trust. The focus of the first part of this meeting was our collective economic transition strategy and ways the Province can flow more financial resources to us in a timelier manner by tweaking existing programs rather than inventing new ones.
As a group we were able to thank the Premier in person for the extensive investments his government is making in our region: the major addition to the hospital, the new Junior Secondary School, new social housing projects, multiple road projects (we also discussed the importance of the Interconnector Project). It cannot be overstated how important these public sector investments are for our local economy and workforce at this time of job losses in the forest sector.
We then discussed the importance of major potential projects like the Lhtako Dene Cultural Centre, the proposed addition to and renovation of the Arts and Recreation Centre, and our Waterfront Development Plan to the realization of our vision for our community. We also outlined for the Premier the role our Forestry Think Tank process and our Food Innovation Hub play in repositioning our traditional resource sectors for success in the future.
After outlining our general economic transition strategy, we delved more deeply into the Forestry Think Tank process, the Provincial Government’s landscape planning pilot, our Community Wildfire Protection Plan activities, and our new potential Community Forest and First Nations Woodland Licenses. With all the local partners in the room with the Premier we were able to demonstrate our alignment around these key initiatives and outline for him how our priorities also align with his government’s desire to see the forest sector extract more value from our forest resources.
After the meeting at the Forestry Innovation Centre, the Premier met with a great group of young agriculturalists and food processors over lunch at Long Table. The focus of this meeting was the Regional Food Innovation Hub, a collaboration between the City of Quesnel, the Ministry of Agriculture, and our local agriculture community that hopes to see Quesnel become an innovation and incubation centre for growing, processing, and marketing more local food options.
After our meetings, the Premier then went on to tour West Fraser’s Plywood Plant and Sawmill.
All in all, the day the Premier spent here in Quesnel will go a long way toward helping us align our local priorities with his government’s, to everyone’s benefit.
(Please note, a full day meeting with the Premier and a group of Northern Mayors was also held in Prince George this week to discuss public safety issues, the Opioid Crisis, homelessness, and regional economic development initiatives.)
BC Cabinet Refreshed
Courtesy of the BC Government:
Premier John Horgan has made changes to cabinet that reflect government’s commitment to a strong, sustainable and innovative economy that benefits people and communities throughout British Columbia.
“These ministers will work hard every day to deliver sustainable economic growth that provides good jobs, a better quality of life and a stronger province for people in every region. I am confident they will put their knowledge and energy to work for people, as we focus on building an economy that works for everyone,” Premier Horgan said.
Anne Kang has been appointed Minister of Citizens’ Services. Kang will connect more rural, remote and Indigenous communities with high-speed internet, creating jobs and opportunities for people and businesses. Kang will continue the work to modernize government procurement, so that more local, small and medium-sized companies can do business with government more efficiently.
Michelle Mungall has been appointed as Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Competitiveness, formerly the Ministry of Jobs, Trade and Technology. Mungall will continue to promote B.C.'s tech sector, economic growth in communities around the province and support business competitiveness. Mungall will be responsible for trade, and engage with industry associations and major sectors on government's approach to quality economic growth.
Bruce Ralston has been appointed Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources. Key priorities include implementation of ministry initiatives supporting CleanBC – government’s plan for climate action – and in so doing, support innovation and development in the clean technology sector, including renewable energy and carbon capture and storage. Ralston will also oversee BC Hydro and make sure B.C.’s wealth of clean, renewable electricity powers the province into the future. Ralston will continue to serve as lead minister for consular affairs.
“British Columbia has tremendous advantages,” Premier Horgan said. “We have rich, natural resources, innovative technologies, skilled entrepreneurs and a competitive business environment. Our government has shown that investing in services people need and making life more affordable grows our economy and helps B.C. remain resilient. We’re going to keep working for people and make sure our economy works for everyone, in every region.”
A full list of the Executive Council follows in a backgrounder. With these appointments, B.C.’s cabinet remains gender balanced.
The full BC Cabinet can be viewed here
McLeese Lake Community Mtg re: Sunfield Energy Feasbility Study
 |
Ron Percival answers questions from
McLeese Lake or Soda Creek Valley residents
regarding his company's feasibility study in the
McLeese Lake area
|
After Ms. Larden explained FLNRORD's process in applying for and potentially being granted an investigative license under BC's Land Act, Ron Percival explained his company's proposed feasibility study
 |
30 residents from McLeese Lake or Soda Creek Valley
at McLeese Lake Community Hall hear presentations from
FLNRORD/Sunfield Energy
|
An overview document from Sunfield Energy in regards to their feasibility study can be viewed here
As the Cariboo Regional District Area 'D' Director -- I was pleased with the turnout and questions asked. I believe there is, generally, support for the feasibility study and the community looks forward to the study being initiated and what comes from the study...
SF
Tuesday, January 21, 2020
Lhoosk’uz Dené/Ulkatcho Nations sign agreement with Province to share benefits
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
Two Indigenous communities in central B.C. have signed an agreement with the Province in support of the recently approved Blackwater Gold Mine within their shared territories.
The agreement supports the development of the proposed gold mine, located in the heart of the Cariboo, and commits to sharing the future mineral revenue generated by the mine.
The agreement between the Province, the Lhoosk’uz Dené Nation and Ulkatcho First Nation (UFN) commits to share a portion of the provincial mineral tax revenue collected from the planned Blackwater Gold Mine project near Vanderhoof. This agreement is an important next step in moving the project toward a final investment decision, construction and long-term operation. The mine received both federal and provincial environmental assessment certificates in 2019.
“First Nations should share in the wealth from natural resource projects in their territory, and agreements like this one create a true partnership for economic development in the territory,” said Scott Fraser, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. “When Indigenous communities are partners in the economy, we can build a stronger B.C. that includes everyone, creating opportunities for Indigenous peoples, B.C. businesses, communities and families everywhere.”
In addition to creating a new source of revenue for the two Nations, the agreement commits to collaborative work to develop a process for engagement on future permitting associated with the mine.
“On behalf of my community, we are pleased to support the Economic and Community Development Agreement (ECDA) with B.C. and look forward to the long-term stability it will provide for my current and future generations,” said Chief Liliane Squinas, Lhoosk’uz Dené Nation.
Chief Lynda Price, Ulkatcho First Nation, said, “Ulkatcho First Nation agreed with the project only after our environmental concerns and conditions were addressed. This is another opportunity for UFN members to participate in the economy. The ECDA will support capacity development and prepare UFN moving forward in a positive direction. UFN acknowledge this has been a long process, which began in early 2012, and are grateful to have reached this milestone.”
The revenue shared through the agreement could be worth as much as $217 million while the mine is operational. Mineral tax revenue will be shared equally between the two Nations. Total mineral tax revenue during the life of the proposed Blackwater mine is currently estimated to be approximately $722 million.
“The partnership that has been reached with the Lhoosk’uz Dené and Ulkatcho Nations is a pathway to real economic benefits and community support for the project,” said Michelle Mungall, Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources. “It ensures the Nations have a voice in the decision-making process and supports the future development of the mine in a way that reflects the principles of the new Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act.”
The Blackwater Gold Mine project by New Gold Inc. will be an open-pit gold and silver mine on 4,400 hectares, about 110 kilometres southwest of Vanderhoof. New Gold expects the mine to operate for 17 years.
The two Nations have also entered into a separate agreement with New Gold Inc. that affords them direct participation in the Blackwater Gold project.
Quick Facts:
- The Blackwater Gold Mine project is expected to create 1,500 jobs during construction and 495 during operations.
- Lhoosk’uz Dené Nation has 243 members and is located 173 kilometres west of Quesnel. Ulkatcho First Nation has 1,062 members and is located 100 kilometres east of Bella Coola.
- Both Nations are members of the Southern Dakelh Nation Alliance and the Carrier Chilcotin Tribal Council.
Learn More:
Economic and Community Development Agreements: http://ow.ly/jEiq30jQpun
Lhoosk’uz Dené Nation: http://www.lhooskuz.com/
Ulkatcho First Nation: https://www.ulkatcho.ca/
New Gold Inc., Blackwater Project: http://ow.ly/KEcq30pZFoq
Monday, January 20, 2020
Province seeks input into trails strategy
Courtesy of the Government of BC:
The Province and its partners are leading a review to ensure B.C.’s trails remain sustainable for people’s outdoor enjoyment.
In 2019, the Provincial Trails Advisory Body, co-chaired by the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development (Recreation Sites and Trails B.C.) and the Outdoor Recreation Council, began a process to complete a formal review of the trails strategy for B.C. The intent of the review is to ensure the continued relevance and importance of the trail strategy to First Nations, recreationists, communities, tourism proponents and the province as a whole.
This work includes:
- engaging with key stakeholders from across the outdoor recreation sector and government;
- gathering information and feedback from a variety of trail users and land managers throughout the province;
- researching literature on the importance and value of trails;
- identifying trends in trail usage including challenges and opportunities; and
- determining the status of implementation of the trails strategy's 22 action items.
British Columbians are invited to provide their opinions and ideas about a provincial trails strategy by participating in the engagement process online: https://engage.gov.bc.ca/govtogetherbc/consultation/trails-strategy-review/
Feedback will be accepted until Feb. 28, 2020, at 4 p.m.
Quick Facts:
- BC has about 30,000 kilometres of formally recognized and managed trails.
- Trails are mostly maintained by volunteers.
- B.C. has over 500 agreements with volunteer groups for site and trail maintenance.
Learn More:
To read about the provincial trails strategy for B.C., visit: http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/documents/Trail-Strategy-for-BC_V6_Nov2012.pdf
To learn about the Provincial Trails Advisory Body and its members, visit: https://orcbc.ca/provincial-trails-advisory-body/
Sunday, January 19, 2020
Services restored at CMH following Water Line Breaks
Williams Lake Tribune reports that services have been restored at the Cariboo Memorial Hospital in Williams Lake, following water line breaks in the last few days. Interior Health reports that no further updates will be forthcoming on this matter....
Click here
SF
Click here
SF
Saturday, January 18, 2020
Update on Water Challenges at Cariboo Memorial Hospital
Courtesy of Interior Health Authority, via Twitter:
AAP Processes starting for Barlow Creek/Deka Lake Fire Trucks
Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:
The CRD’s Barlow Creek and Deka Lake volunteer fire departments require new fire trucks in 2020 to meet certification requirements. The Cariboo Regional District is holding alternative approval processes (AAP) to approve using 10-year financing for the purchases.
“Both Barlow Creek and Deka Lake volunteer fire departments need to replace one of their fire trucks so that their trucks meet Canadian certification requirements,” explains John Massier, CRD Vice-Chair and Electoral Area C Director. “If the trucks are not replaced, property owners will not qualify for fire insurance discounts within those fire protection areas.”
To lower the impact on taxes, the Regional District is using ten-year debt financing rather than five-year financing. This model spreads out the purchasing cost, creates the least impact on tax rates and helps the fire department build up savings for future maintenance and truck replacements.
“Major purchases like this can have a significant impact on taxes,” Massier states. “We think using a ten-year financing model is the best way to keep tax rates manageable.”
If qualified electors in the Barlow Creek and Deka Lake fire protection areas are fine with the CRD using 10-year financing to purchase the fire truck, then they do not have to do anything. If they are opposed, they need to submit the official Elector Response Form by March 2, 2020.
Local governments need residents’ permission to enter into debt financing arrangements longer than five years. To gather that permission, the Regional District has chosen to use an AAP to purchase new fire engines for Barlow Creek and Deka Lake.
CRD Area 'L' Director Willow Macdonald goes on to say "The Deka Lake Volunteer Fire Department is such an important part of our community. Having equipment that is up to standard will help support the selfless work they do.”
An AAP is a ‘reverse’ form of public assent where the proposed change will go ahead unless at least 10 per cent of the eligible voters submit a signed Elector Response Form saying they are against the proposal. This means the CRD will purchase the trucks through ten-year financing unless 10 per cent of the residents in the specific fire protection areas object.
Signed Elector Response Forms must be submitted by 4 p.m. on Monday, March 2, 2020.
Visit cariboord.ca/firedepartments for the Elector Response Forms and a Frequently Asked Questions document for each AAP. The FAQs outline the impact on taxation for each fire protection area and provide more details on the alternative approval process.
Background Facts:
Each engine/pumper truck will cost about $455,000.
The 10-year financing model is keeping taxes from increasing as much as they would under 5-year financing for both the fire protection areas.
Under the 10-year financing model:
The Barlow Creek Fire Protection Area budget will see an overall tax increase of 3.4% each year over the next 5-year financial plan (2020-2024), which includes both the property and parcel tax. If the fire truck was purchased with 5-year financing, there would need to be a 25% property tax increase in 2020 and a 3.5% increase in years 2021 to 2024.
The Deka Lake Fire Protection Area budget will see only inflationary tax increases of 2.5% each year over the next 5-year financial plan (2020-2024). If the fire truck was purchased with 5-year financing, there would need to be a 20% tax increase in 2020 with a return to inflationary increases of 2.5% per year for 2021 to 2024.
For an AAP, elector responses must be submitted on the official Elector Response Form. This form, or an accurate copy of it, is the only form that will be accepted. Forms are available from the CRD offices during business hours or can be downloaded at cariboord.ca/firedepartments.
The CRD’s Protective Services department provides a variety of services throughout the Cariboo Chilcotin, including 9-1-1, Emergency Planning, Search and Rescue, Highway Rescue, Structural Fire Protection and Wildland/Urban Interface Fuel Management.
The Cariboo Regional District has 14 volunteer fire departments. For more information about the CRD’s VFD’s or information about joining these groups of dedicated volunteers, visit cariboord.ca/firedepartments.
The CRD’s Barlow Creek and Deka Lake volunteer fire departments require new fire trucks in 2020 to meet certification requirements. The Cariboo Regional District is holding alternative approval processes (AAP) to approve using 10-year financing for the purchases.
“Both Barlow Creek and Deka Lake volunteer fire departments need to replace one of their fire trucks so that their trucks meet Canadian certification requirements,” explains John Massier, CRD Vice-Chair and Electoral Area C Director. “If the trucks are not replaced, property owners will not qualify for fire insurance discounts within those fire protection areas.”
To lower the impact on taxes, the Regional District is using ten-year debt financing rather than five-year financing. This model spreads out the purchasing cost, creates the least impact on tax rates and helps the fire department build up savings for future maintenance and truck replacements.
“Major purchases like this can have a significant impact on taxes,” Massier states. “We think using a ten-year financing model is the best way to keep tax rates manageable.”
If qualified electors in the Barlow Creek and Deka Lake fire protection areas are fine with the CRD using 10-year financing to purchase the fire truck, then they do not have to do anything. If they are opposed, they need to submit the official Elector Response Form by March 2, 2020.
Local governments need residents’ permission to enter into debt financing arrangements longer than five years. To gather that permission, the Regional District has chosen to use an AAP to purchase new fire engines for Barlow Creek and Deka Lake.
CRD Area 'L' Director Willow Macdonald goes on to say "The Deka Lake Volunteer Fire Department is such an important part of our community. Having equipment that is up to standard will help support the selfless work they do.”
An AAP is a ‘reverse’ form of public assent where the proposed change will go ahead unless at least 10 per cent of the eligible voters submit a signed Elector Response Form saying they are against the proposal. This means the CRD will purchase the trucks through ten-year financing unless 10 per cent of the residents in the specific fire protection areas object.
Signed Elector Response Forms must be submitted by 4 p.m. on Monday, March 2, 2020.
Visit cariboord.ca/firedepartments for the Elector Response Forms and a Frequently Asked Questions document for each AAP. The FAQs outline the impact on taxation for each fire protection area and provide more details on the alternative approval process.
Background Facts:
Each engine/pumper truck will cost about $455,000.
The 10-year financing model is keeping taxes from increasing as much as they would under 5-year financing for both the fire protection areas.
Under the 10-year financing model:
The Barlow Creek Fire Protection Area budget will see an overall tax increase of 3.4% each year over the next 5-year financial plan (2020-2024), which includes both the property and parcel tax. If the fire truck was purchased with 5-year financing, there would need to be a 25% property tax increase in 2020 and a 3.5% increase in years 2021 to 2024.
The Deka Lake Fire Protection Area budget will see only inflationary tax increases of 2.5% each year over the next 5-year financial plan (2020-2024). If the fire truck was purchased with 5-year financing, there would need to be a 20% tax increase in 2020 with a return to inflationary increases of 2.5% per year for 2021 to 2024.
For an AAP, elector responses must be submitted on the official Elector Response Form. This form, or an accurate copy of it, is the only form that will be accepted. Forms are available from the CRD offices during business hours or can be downloaded at cariboord.ca/firedepartments.
The CRD’s Protective Services department provides a variety of services throughout the Cariboo Chilcotin, including 9-1-1, Emergency Planning, Search and Rescue, Highway Rescue, Structural Fire Protection and Wildland/Urban Interface Fuel Management.
The Cariboo Regional District has 14 volunteer fire departments. For more information about the CRD’s VFD’s or information about joining these groups of dedicated volunteers, visit cariboord.ca/firedepartments.
Friday, January 17, 2020
Local Government Meetings - Week of Jan 20-24
The following local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin are meeting next week, as follows:
Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, January 21st at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
* Maintenance Bylaw Discussion
* Presentation of Draft Water Treatment Plant Feasibility Study
* NCLGA Resolution Submission Information
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District - Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus on Wednesday, January 22nd at 3pm in the CRD Williams Lake Committee Room (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Election of Caucus Chair for 2020
* Delegation - City of Williams Lake re: 2020 Kraft Hockeyville competition
* 2020 Central Cariboo Rural Caucus Meeting Schedule
* 2020 Info Fair & Directors Meetings
* Central Cariboo Appointments for 2020
* Central Cariboo Rural Caucus Terms of Reference Review
* Central Cariboo Housing Study Information
* Amendment to Riske Creek VFD Grant for Assistance
* Williams Lake Curling Club - Request for Letter of Support
* Discussion Item: Economic Development Funding for Chamber of Commerce
View the full Agenda here
Finally - for those in the McLeese Lake/Soda Creek Valley areas -- a reminder about the Open House for the proposed feasibility study regarding a solar energy facility in the McLeese Lake area this coming Tuesday evening from 7-8:30pm (January 21st) at the McLeese Lake Hall (6178 Forglen Road). Reps from FLNRORD/Sunfield Energy and I will be in attendance. Link to event can be found here
SF
Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, January 21st at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St). On the Agenda:
* Maintenance Bylaw Discussion
* Presentation of Draft Water Treatment Plant Feasibility Study
* NCLGA Resolution Submission Information
View the full Agenda here
Cariboo Regional District - Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus on Wednesday, January 22nd at 3pm in the CRD Williams Lake Committee Room (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:
* Election of Caucus Chair for 2020
* Delegation - City of Williams Lake re: 2020 Kraft Hockeyville competition
* 2020 Central Cariboo Rural Caucus Meeting Schedule
* 2020 Info Fair & Directors Meetings
* Central Cariboo Appointments for 2020
* Central Cariboo Rural Caucus Terms of Reference Review
* Central Cariboo Housing Study Information
* Amendment to Riske Creek VFD Grant for Assistance
* Williams Lake Curling Club - Request for Letter of Support
* Discussion Item: Economic Development Funding for Chamber of Commerce
View the full Agenda here
Finally - for those in the McLeese Lake/Soda Creek Valley areas -- a reminder about the Open House for the proposed feasibility study regarding a solar energy facility in the McLeese Lake area this coming Tuesday evening from 7-8:30pm (January 21st) at the McLeese Lake Hall (6178 Forglen Road). Reps from FLNRORD/Sunfield Energy and I will be in attendance. Link to event can be found here
SF
Cariboo RD Board Highlights - Jan 17th mtg
Present: Chair M. Wagner/Vice-Chair J. Massier; Directors M. Sjostrom, B. Bachmeier, S. Forseth, A. Delainey, A. Richmond, J. Glassford, G. Kirby, C. Mernett, W. Macdonald, G. Fourchalk, B. Simpson, M. Campsall, Area 'F' Alternate Director J. Sorley and City of WL Alternate Director J. Ryll
Meeting called to order at 10:44am
The Chair acknowledged that the meeting was taking place on traditional Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) territory and welcomed Area 'F' Alternate Director Joan Sorley for Area F Director Maureen LeBourdais and City of Williams Lake Alternate Director Jason Ryll for City of Williams Lake Director Walt Cobb to today's Board meeting
Meeting Agenda approved
Minutes of the Board Meeting held December 6th, 2019
The Board received the Delegations Memorandum of Business, as of January 17th & at the request of Director Forseth - the Board agreed to invite Telus to provide an update on its' cell and internet services in the Cariboo-Chilcotin region at a future Board meeting
Business:
Development Services:
1) The following Planning Bylaw was given 1st and 2nd Reading:
a) South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5249, 2019 (Area G/3711 Whitehorse Lake Road)
2) The following Planning Bylaw was given 3rd Reading:
a) Interlakes Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5233, 2019 & South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5234, 2019 (Area L/8196 Bridge Lake North Road)
3) The following Planning Bylaws were Adopted:
a) Quesnel Fringe Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5172, 2018 & Quesnel Fringe Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5173, 2018 (Area I/325 Skyline Road)
b) North Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5178, 2018 (Area B/Cariboo Highway 97 North)
c) South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5180, 2018 (Area H/5498 Kennedy Road)
d) Central Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5198, 2019 (Area F/4258 Spur Road)
4) The Board approved Development Variance Permit #60/2019 (Area L/6189 Hunt Road)
5) The Board approved Development Variance Permit #58/2019 (Area L/7644 Highway #24)
Meeting recessed at 10:50am
Meeting resumed at 11:00am
Business, cont:
Development Services, cont:
5) The Board received a report of the North Cariboo Agricultural Development Advisory Committee pertaining to Bill 52 (Provincial Agriculture Land Commission) and resolved to write a letter to the Ministry of Agriculture in regards to Bill 52 substantively in line with the report from the ADAC...
6) The Board received a request to de-register the Roddis House from the CRD Heritage Registry (Quesnel) and agreed to the request. Board divided - Stakeholder Vote (Electoral Areas only). Motion approved by the following vote:
Affirmative - Directors' Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Delainey, Richmond, Wagner, Glassford, Kirby, Mernett, Macdonald and Area 'F' Alternate Director Sorley
Negative - Area 'D' Director S. Forseth
7) The Board received the Cariboo Regional District Building Statistics Report, Municipalities Building Statistics Report, and the Inspection Activity Report for November 2019
8) The Board received a request to apply to the UBCM Community Emergency Preparedness Funding for additional floodplain mapping and agreed to endorse the application for submission to UBCM
Environmental Services:
1) The Board received a request from NCLGA in regards to a mid-2020 Solid Waste Management Forum and authorized Staff time & $4,000 be provided to the Forum
Community Services:
1) The Board agreed to submit an application to the British Columbia Air Access Program for up to $22,500 to remove and replace a section of fencing at the Anahim Lake Airport and that up to $15,000 be committed from the Anahim Lake Airport function budget to support the project
Protective Services:
1) The Board authorized Staff to enter into an occupancy agreement on behalf of the CRD for the portion of the building currently being operated by the Mountain Spruce Community Center Society
Finance:
1) The Board received/ratified the monthly Cheque Register for the month of December 2019 in the amount of $2,197,024.54
2) The Board authorized 2020 Grant for Assistance (Year Round Intake) as follows:
a) Tatla Lake Ski Club - $1,000 from Area J
b) Caribruisers Junior Roller Derby - $710 divided equally between Areas D,E,F
3) The Board received a report of the CFO regarding the current status of the Cariboo Regional District Community Works Funds
4) At the request of the Chief Financial Officer, the Board authorized amendments to Board Policy #2016-06B-18, Community Works Fund Prioritization Policy as presented (change language in line with current Community Works Funding agreement between BC/Canada)
Administration:
1) The Board authorized Alternative Approval Processes and the required Resolutions for the following:
a) Deka Lake Fire Protection Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 5236, 2019
b) Barlow Creek Fire Protection Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 5237, 2019
2) The Board received a letter from the BC Geographical Names Office advising of a proposal to adopt “Mount Lyons” as an official name of a peak on the border between Wells Gray Provincial Park and Cariboo Mountains Park and a letter of no objection be provided, subject to no opposition from local First Nations...
3) The Board appointed the members of each Rural Caucus in North, Central and South Cariboo to a sub-regional (north, central, south) Parcel Tax Review Panel for 2020, should meeting(s) be necessary
4) The Board received a request from the Gold Rush Trail Sled Dog Association for support of its 2020 Sled Dog Mail Run
5) The Board endorsed and confirmed its support, in respect of Maple Drive, as follows:
a) That the traffic pattern changes on Maple Drive have negatively impacted on the safety of pedestrians and vehicular traffic along the Maple Drive Corridor, which could be at least mitigated through the installation of streetlights.
b) That the installation of streetlights to enhance safety along the corridor should be the responsibility of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.
c) Failing the Province accepting their responsibility, that the Cariboo Regional District correspond with community, governmental, and industrial stakeholders, seeking contributions toward the capital costs of the installation of streetlights should the Regional District have to undertake this project as a new service.
d) That a public meeting be held in the Maple Drive area early this year to communicate our findings and proposal to the area residents
e) Mention to the Province regarding enhanced crosswalks in the Maple Drive area
Meeting recessed at 12:13pm
Meeting resumed at 12:54pm
6) The Board received the Consent Calendar, as of January 17th
7) The Board received a letter from the Honourable George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy responding to the collaborate request of the Regional District Chairs to include the packaging and paper products from the industrial, commercial and institutional sector in the Recycling Regulation
Committee or Commission Minutes/Recommendations:
1) The Board received minutes from its' Committtees or Commissions as follows:
a) North Cariboo Rural Directors - Meeting of December 4th, 2019
b) South Cariboo Joint Committee - Meeting of December 5th, 2019
2) The Board endorsed recommendations from its' Committees or Commissions, as follows:
a) Proposed North Cariboo Memorandum of Understanding Between the CRD and the City of Quesnel - North Cariboo Rural Caucus (December 4th, 2019)
Corporate Bylaws :
1) The Board adopted Central Cariboo and Chilcotin Economic Development Services Merge Bylaw No. 5244, 2019 (Areas D,E,F,J,K)
Directors' Items :
1) At the request of Director S. Forseth -- Staff were requested to prepare 2020 NCLGA Resolutions on Provincial Funding for FSR Roads and clarifying language in Local Government Act in respect of Temporary Use Permits
2) At the request of Director S. Forseth -- up to $4,500 from the Area 'D' Director Initiative Fund to permit him to attend the 2020 Minerals North Conference in Quesnel and the 2020 FCM Convention in Toronto, Ontario
3) At the requests of Directors J. Massier and A. Richmond -- up to $4,000 from the Area C and Area G Director Initiative Funds were authorized to permit them to attend the 2020 FCM Convention in Toronto, Ontario
4) At the request of Alternate Director J. Sorley for Area F Director M. LeBourdais -- the Board authorized up to $2,000 from the Area F Director Intiative Fund to permit Director LeBourdais to attend the Adaptation Canada 2020 conference in Vancouver on Feb 19-21, 2020
5) The Board received Chair Wagner's 2020 Portfolio or Committee Assignments to CRD Board Directors', as amended (Director Macdonald to sit on First Nations' Committee)
At 1:34pm -- the Board convened an In-Camera Session as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter
At 2:11pm -- the Board resumed its' public meeting
Directors' reported on their recent activities
The Board adjourned at 2:30pm
Meeting called to order at 10:44am
The Chair acknowledged that the meeting was taking place on traditional Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) territory and welcomed Area 'F' Alternate Director Joan Sorley for Area F Director Maureen LeBourdais and City of Williams Lake Alternate Director Jason Ryll for City of Williams Lake Director Walt Cobb to today's Board meeting
Meeting Agenda approved
Minutes of the Board Meeting held December 6th, 2019
The Board received the Delegations Memorandum of Business, as of January 17th & at the request of Director Forseth - the Board agreed to invite Telus to provide an update on its' cell and internet services in the Cariboo-Chilcotin region at a future Board meeting
Business:
Development Services:
1) The following Planning Bylaw was given 1st and 2nd Reading:
a) South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5249, 2019 (Area G/3711 Whitehorse Lake Road)
2) The following Planning Bylaw was given 3rd Reading:
a) Interlakes Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5233, 2019 & South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5234, 2019 (Area L/8196 Bridge Lake North Road)
3) The following Planning Bylaws were Adopted:
a) Quesnel Fringe Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5172, 2018 & Quesnel Fringe Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5173, 2018 (Area I/325 Skyline Road)
b) North Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5178, 2018 (Area B/Cariboo Highway 97 North)
c) South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5180, 2018 (Area H/5498 Kennedy Road)
d) Central Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5198, 2019 (Area F/4258 Spur Road)
4) The Board approved Development Variance Permit #60/2019 (Area L/6189 Hunt Road)
5) The Board approved Development Variance Permit #58/2019 (Area L/7644 Highway #24)
Meeting recessed at 10:50am
Meeting resumed at 11:00am
Business, cont:
Development Services, cont:
5) The Board received a report of the North Cariboo Agricultural Development Advisory Committee pertaining to Bill 52 (Provincial Agriculture Land Commission) and resolved to write a letter to the Ministry of Agriculture in regards to Bill 52 substantively in line with the report from the ADAC...
6) The Board received a request to de-register the Roddis House from the CRD Heritage Registry (Quesnel) and agreed to the request. Board divided - Stakeholder Vote (Electoral Areas only). Motion approved by the following vote:
Affirmative - Directors' Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Delainey, Richmond, Wagner, Glassford, Kirby, Mernett, Macdonald and Area 'F' Alternate Director Sorley
Negative - Area 'D' Director S. Forseth
7) The Board received the Cariboo Regional District Building Statistics Report, Municipalities Building Statistics Report, and the Inspection Activity Report for November 2019
8) The Board received a request to apply to the UBCM Community Emergency Preparedness Funding for additional floodplain mapping and agreed to endorse the application for submission to UBCM
Environmental Services:
1) The Board received a request from NCLGA in regards to a mid-2020 Solid Waste Management Forum and authorized Staff time & $4,000 be provided to the Forum
Community Services:
1) The Board agreed to submit an application to the British Columbia Air Access Program for up to $22,500 to remove and replace a section of fencing at the Anahim Lake Airport and that up to $15,000 be committed from the Anahim Lake Airport function budget to support the project
Protective Services:
1) The Board authorized Staff to enter into an occupancy agreement on behalf of the CRD for the portion of the building currently being operated by the Mountain Spruce Community Center Society
Finance:
1) The Board received/ratified the monthly Cheque Register for the month of December 2019 in the amount of $2,197,024.54
2) The Board authorized 2020 Grant for Assistance (Year Round Intake) as follows:
a) Tatla Lake Ski Club - $1,000 from Area J
b) Caribruisers Junior Roller Derby - $710 divided equally between Areas D,E,F
3) The Board received a report of the CFO regarding the current status of the Cariboo Regional District Community Works Funds
4) At the request of the Chief Financial Officer, the Board authorized amendments to Board Policy #2016-06B-18, Community Works Fund Prioritization Policy as presented (change language in line with current Community Works Funding agreement between BC/Canada)
Administration:
1) The Board authorized Alternative Approval Processes and the required Resolutions for the following:
a) Deka Lake Fire Protection Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 5236, 2019
b) Barlow Creek Fire Protection Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 5237, 2019
2) The Board received a letter from the BC Geographical Names Office advising of a proposal to adopt “Mount Lyons” as an official name of a peak on the border between Wells Gray Provincial Park and Cariboo Mountains Park and a letter of no objection be provided, subject to no opposition from local First Nations...
3) The Board appointed the members of each Rural Caucus in North, Central and South Cariboo to a sub-regional (north, central, south) Parcel Tax Review Panel for 2020, should meeting(s) be necessary
4) The Board received a request from the Gold Rush Trail Sled Dog Association for support of its 2020 Sled Dog Mail Run
5) The Board endorsed and confirmed its support, in respect of Maple Drive, as follows:
a) That the traffic pattern changes on Maple Drive have negatively impacted on the safety of pedestrians and vehicular traffic along the Maple Drive Corridor, which could be at least mitigated through the installation of streetlights.
b) That the installation of streetlights to enhance safety along the corridor should be the responsibility of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure.
c) Failing the Province accepting their responsibility, that the Cariboo Regional District correspond with community, governmental, and industrial stakeholders, seeking contributions toward the capital costs of the installation of streetlights should the Regional District have to undertake this project as a new service.
d) That a public meeting be held in the Maple Drive area early this year to communicate our findings and proposal to the area residents
e) Mention to the Province regarding enhanced crosswalks in the Maple Drive area
Meeting recessed at 12:13pm
Meeting resumed at 12:54pm
6) The Board received the Consent Calendar, as of January 17th
7) The Board received a letter from the Honourable George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy responding to the collaborate request of the Regional District Chairs to include the packaging and paper products from the industrial, commercial and institutional sector in the Recycling Regulation
Committee or Commission Minutes/Recommendations:
1) The Board received minutes from its' Committtees or Commissions as follows:
a) North Cariboo Rural Directors - Meeting of December 4th, 2019
b) South Cariboo Joint Committee - Meeting of December 5th, 2019
2) The Board endorsed recommendations from its' Committees or Commissions, as follows:
a) Proposed North Cariboo Memorandum of Understanding Between the CRD and the City of Quesnel - North Cariboo Rural Caucus (December 4th, 2019)
Corporate Bylaws :
1) The Board adopted Central Cariboo and Chilcotin Economic Development Services Merge Bylaw No. 5244, 2019 (Areas D,E,F,J,K)
Directors' Items :
1) At the request of Director S. Forseth -- Staff were requested to prepare 2020 NCLGA Resolutions on Provincial Funding for FSR Roads and clarifying language in Local Government Act in respect of Temporary Use Permits
2) At the request of Director S. Forseth -- up to $4,500 from the Area 'D' Director Initiative Fund to permit him to attend the 2020 Minerals North Conference in Quesnel and the 2020 FCM Convention in Toronto, Ontario
3) At the requests of Directors J. Massier and A. Richmond -- up to $4,000 from the Area C and Area G Director Initiative Funds were authorized to permit them to attend the 2020 FCM Convention in Toronto, Ontario
4) At the request of Alternate Director J. Sorley for Area F Director M. LeBourdais -- the Board authorized up to $2,000 from the Area F Director Intiative Fund to permit Director LeBourdais to attend the Adaptation Canada 2020 conference in Vancouver on Feb 19-21, 2020
5) The Board received Chair Wagner's 2020 Portfolio or Committee Assignments to CRD Board Directors', as amended (Director Macdonald to sit on First Nations' Committee)
At 1:34pm -- the Board convened an In-Camera Session as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter
At 2:11pm -- the Board resumed its' public meeting
Directors' reported on their recent activities
The Board adjourned at 2:30pm
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