Thursday, April 30, 2020

April 30th, 2020 #COVID-19 Numbers

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

 Editor's Note -- Joint Statement of BC's Health Minister/Provincial Health Officer - Hon. Adrian Dix/Dr. Bonnie Henry - can be viewed here.  You are also encouraged to fill out the BC Government's COVID-19 questionnaire which you can access here

The COVID-19 situation in British Columbia is continually evolving, and the information below is current as of 3 p.m. on Thursday, April 30, 2020.
Cases:
  • Total confirmed cases in B.C.: 2,112
  • New cases since April 29, 2020: 25
  • Hospitalized cases: 82
  • Intensive care: 30
  • COVID-19 related deaths: 111
  • Recovered: 1,322
  • Long-term care and assisted-living homes currently affected: 21
  • Acute-care unit outbreaks: 3
Confirmed cases by region:
  • Vancouver Coastal Health: 815
  • Fraser Health: 961
  • Island Health: 120
  • Interior Health: 170
  • Northern Health: 46
New provincial advice and measures:
New federal measures:
Media availability schedule:
Upcoming scheduled media availability with Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.'s provincial health officer:
Friday, May 1 - 3 p.m., statement only
Saturday, May 2 - noon, Victoria (Dr. Bonnie Henry only)
Monday, May 4 – 1:30 p.m., Victoria
Resources:
Testing:
  • For the latest statistics, including testing, visit the BC Centre for Disease Control's COVID-19 dashboard:http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/data
  • If symptoms appear, check your symptoms online: https://covid19.thrive.health
    • If needed, call your health-care provider or 811 for further guidance.
Learn More:
For the latest videos and livestreaming of COVID-19 media availabilities, visit:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ProvinceofBC 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BCGovNews
For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, follow @CDCofBC on Twitter
Or visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
For the provincial health officer's orders, notices and guidance, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/phoguidance
For non-health related information, including financial, child care and education supports, travel, transportation and essential service information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/Covid-19
Or call 1 888 COVID19 (1 888 268-4319) between 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Pacific time), seven days a week.
For recommendations on protecting yourself and your community, including for employers and businesses, visit: 
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/coronavirus-(novel)
For common questions about COVID-19 and terminology, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/common-questions
Worker and employer information:
For workers and employers who need help understanding the law and their rights, have workplace health and safety questions or who need help with claims, call:
Employment Standards Branch: 1 833 236-3700
For health and safety assistance: 1 888 621-7233 (1 888 621-SAFE)
For workers and claims: 1 888 967-5377 (1 888 WORKERS)
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Evacuation alert issued for one property in the Bridge Creek – Hood Road

Courtesy of the Cariboo RD's Emergency Operations Centre:
An Evacuation Alert has been issued by the Cariboo Regional District's Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) for Bridge Creek – Hood Road area due to potential danger to life and health.
See a map of the affected area: https://bit.ly/BridgeCreekHoodAL

An Evacuation Alert has been issued to prepare you to evacuate your premises or property should it be required. Residents will be given as much advance notice as possible prior to evacuation; however you may receive limited notice due to changing conditions.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO WHEN AN ALERT IS IN EFFECT

Upon notification of an ALERT, you should be prepared for an evacuation order:
  • Have a plan to transport all family members or co-workers (while practicing physical distancing if possible) outside of the area, should the area be brought under evacuation order.
  • Keep essential items readily available for a quick departure; including medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e. insurance), immediate care needs for dependents and, if you choose, keepsakes (photographs, etc).
  • Ensure that any dependents or pets are prepared for departure.
  • Move pets and livestock to a safe area.
  • Ensure that you have accommodation options for your family, if possible. A Reception Centre will be made available if required.
  • In the event of an evacuation, do not shut off your natural gas.
  • Monitor reliable news sources for information on evacuation orders and locations of Reception Centres and the CRD’s channels on Facebook and cariboord.ca.
  • If you are on an evacuation ALERT or ORDER, or if you have been displaced from you home due to an emergency, Please self-register with Emergency Support Services (ESS) at https://ess.gov.bc.ca/ . Self-Registration will reduce wait times for evacuees and assist in the referral process.
Further information will be issued as it becomes available. Please visit the CRD Emergency Operations Facebook page at facebook.com/CRDEmergencyOperations as well as the CRD website at cariboord.ca/EOC. For more information contact the CRD’s emergency information line at 1-866-759-4977 (8:30am – 4:30pm daily).

Residents are encouraged to register for the Cariboo Chilcotin Emergency Notification System to receive a text, call or email regarding Evacuation Alerts and Orders: member.everbridge.net/index/453003085612292#/signup
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Planning for the 2020 UBCM Convention

Courtesy of the Union of Municipalities:
COVID-19 has required that British Columbians collectively re-think nearly every aspect of our lives. At UBCM, this process of rethinking includes developing contingency plans for hosting the 2020 UBCM Convention. At this point, there are many unanswered questions with regard to the health orders that will be in place come September. We want to assure our members that we have begun the process of weighing other options to help you connect and collectively identify the top issues facing B.C.’s communities.
Planning for each Convention is a year-round process, so considerable work has been undertaken for the 2020 Convention slated to be held at the Victoria Conference Centre, September 21-25. While this work will continue, we will also develop a virtual Convention concept to provide a contingency in the event that an in-person Convention is prohibited or unfeasible. We are very appreciative of the support and the interest that has been offered by the City of Victoria, our sponsors and others to ensure this year’s Convention is the best possible in consideration of provincial health orders.
UBCM recognizes that this is a time of unusual financial challenge for B.C.’s local governments. The 2020 Convention will deliver quality programming while facilitating member direction and provincial engagement in a cost-effective format. We will also revisit our established registration deadlines and cancellation policies to take into account the present uncertainty.
We will provide a more detailed update on our approach following the May UBCM Executive meeting. 
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Central Coast RD Statement Regarding Declarations of Central Coast Travel Restrictions

Courtesy of the Central Coast Regional District:

On March 26th, the province suspended all non-First Nation States of Local Emergencies (with the exception of the City of Vancouver) and Local Travel Restriction Orders pertaining to the COVID-19 pandemic. This action removed the CCRD's authority to regulate travel in the Central Coast in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, as local governments have historically during times of threat by wildfire or flood.
The CCRD is obligated by provincial statute to defer to direction from Emergency Management BC and the Provincial Health Authority in all COVID-19 response matters, including restriction of travel for public safety.
Consequently, the CCRD does not have permission or authority to either authorize or restrict travel as part of the local COVID-19 response.  
On April 27th 2020 the Nuxalk Hereditary Chiefs, Chief and Council, and the Nuxalk EOC declared a non-essential travel ban in and out of Bella Coola.
On April 20th 2020, the Heiltsuk Nation Hereditary Chiefs, Chief and Council, and the Heiltsuk EOC declared a non-essential travel ban into Heiltsuk Territory.  
Please direct questions regarding the Nuxalk Nation travel restriction to:
Nuxalk Nation EOC spokesperson Colleen Gabriel at eocinfo.nuxalk@gmail.com; 250-799-5959
Please direct questions regarding the Heiltsuk Nation travel restriction to:
 Heiltsuk Nation EOC at 778-213-8049
Other relevant contacts:
Honourable Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, MLA  PSSG.Minister@gov.bc.ca;  Phone: (250) 356-2178
Parliamentary Secretary for Emergency Preparedness Jennifer Rice, MLA at  jennifer.rice.MLA@leg.bc.ca; 1-866-624-7734
Ministry of Health: hlth.health@gov.bc.ca (contact for question or concern about policy, legislation, or decisions of the Ministry of Health); 250-387-3655
Honourable Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, MLA HLTH.Minister@gov.bc.ca; phone 250-953-3547
Emergency Management BC North East Region Office at EMBC.NEAAdmin@gov.bc.ca or 250-612-4172
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Provincial Stumpage deferred 90 days

Courtesy of the Government of BC:
The B.C. government is deferring one of the fees it charges to help people, communities and forest companies navigate through the COVID-19 crisis.
Stumpage, the fee operators pay the Province to harvest, buy or sell trees from Crown land, is being deferred for three months.
“As government, we had already taken a number of steps to help forest communities and the industry because they were facing tough times even before the COVID-19 crisis came along,” said BC Premier John Horgan. “Now, we’re deferring stumpage fees so companies can maintain their financial liquidity, which will not only benefit them, but ideally, forest workers and communities as well.”
The deferral with interest is available to Tree Farm Licence, Replaceable Forest Licence and First Nations’ Woodlands Licence holders who are in good financial standing with the Province. They also must be following through on their reforesting obligations.
The deferral will leave eligible companies with an estimated $80 million so they can pay employees, pay contractors and pay other bills needed to keep their doors open or reopen them faster.
“We’re building on other measures we’ve taken to help the forest sector navigate this crisis,” said the Hon. Doug Donaldson, BC's Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. “What we’re announcing today may allow some companies to get back online sooner rather than later when we get through the situation we’re in now – or it may save other companies from having to shut down altogether.”
Ravi Kahlon, Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, said: “COVID-19 just added to the challenges facing our forest sector. In conversations with the forestry industry, the deferral of stumpage was a key ask, and I am pleased our government has been able to deliver support to companies, contractors and workers.”
Kahlon added that the $69 million fund announced last fall to support British Columbia forest workers affected by mill closures and shift reductions in several B.C. Interior communities included new supports to make sure people have access to the services they need. This includes everything from training, to work placement, to early retirement. It also includes community support grants for communities that have been hardest hit by a mill closure or curtailment.
On March 26, 2020, government announced a list of health and non-health services that are essential, as part of its ongoing response to COVID-19. These include businesses that ensure global continuity of supply of primary and value-added forestry/silviculture products (e.g. lumber, pulp, paper, wood fuel, etc.), including soft-pulp products, such as protective masks, gowns, drapes, screens and other hospital supplies, as well as household paper products.
Government also acted quickly to deliver relief and support in response to COVID-19, including a $1,000 boost to any employee eligible for employment insurance (EI) or the new federal emergency benefits for those who don’t qualify for EI. It’s also why legislation was tabled that will mean no one can be fired for taking time off work to follow the advice of the provincial health officer.
As well, major industries like pulp and paper mills and mines, will have the opportunity to defer 50% of their BC Hydro bill payments for three months.
Quick Facts:
  • The stumpage system in B.C. is called the market pricing system.
  • Stumpage is calculated every three months, ensuring companies that harvest on Crown land are paying a fair market rate and the people of B.C. are getting fair value.
  • Unlike Alberta’s tenure system, B.C. does not have a universal stumpage rate because B.C.’s forests are more diverse. Stumpage is based on volume of timber, species and grade.
  • The money raised by stumpage funds vital social services.
Learn More:
To see provincial COVID-19 supports for business and industry, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/taxes/tax-changes/covid-19-tax-changes
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Wednesday, April 29, 2020

April 29th, 2020 #COVID-19 Numbers

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

 Editor's Note -- Joint Statement from BC's Health Minister/Provincial Health Officer - Hon. Adrian Dix/Dr. Bonnie Henry -- can be viewed here

The COVID-19 situation in British Columbia is continually evolving, and the information below is current as of 3 p.m. on Wednesday, April 29, 2020.
Cases:
  • Total confirmed cases in B.C.: 2,087
  • New cases since April 28, 2020: 34
  • Hospitalized cases: 89
  • Intensive care: 35
  • COVID-19 related deaths: 109
  • Recovered: 1,305
  • Long-term care and assisted-living homes currently affected: 21
  • Acute-care unit outbreaks: 3
Confirmed cases by region:
  • Vancouver Coastal Health: 811
  • Fraser Health: 941
  • Island Health: 120
  • Interior Health: 169
  • Northern Health: 46
New provincial advice and measures:
New federal measures:
Media availability schedule:
Upcoming scheduled media availability with Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer:
Thursday, April 30 – 3 p.m., Victoria
Friday, May 1 – 3 p.m., statement only
Saturday, May 2 – noon, Victoria (Dr. Bonnie Henry only)
Resources:
Testing:
  • For the latest statistics, including testing, visit the BC Centre for Disease Control's COVID-19 dashboard:http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/data
  • If symptoms appear, check your symptoms online: https://covid19.thrive.health 
    • If needed, call your health-care provider or 811 for further guidance.
Learn More:
For the latest videos and livestreaming of COVID-19 media availabilities, visit:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ProvinceofBC 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BCGovNews
For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, follow @CDCofBC on Twitter
Or visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
For the provincial health officer's orders, notices and guidance, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/phoguidance
For non-health related information, including financial, child care and education supports, travel, transportation and essential service information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/Covid-19
Or call 1 888 COVID19 (1 888 268-4319) between 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Pacific time), seven days a week.
For recommendations on protecting yourself and your community, including for employers and businesses, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/coronavirus-(novel)
For common questions about COVID-19 and terminology, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/common-questions
Worker and employer information:
For workers and employers who need help understanding the law and their rights, have workplace health and safety questions or who need help with claims, call:
Employment Standards Branch: 1 833 236-3700
For health and safety assistance: 1 888 621-7233 (1 888 621-SAFE)
For workers and claims: 1 888 967-5377 (1 888 WORKERS)
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Likely Landfill CLOSED until further notice

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

Due to impassable road conditions, the Likely Landfill will be closed to public access until the road can be repaired.

A household garbage bin will be located at the Likely Community Hall on Rosette Lake Road. Please use this for the disposal of HOUSEHOLD garbage only. The Big Lake Landfill can be used for disposal of scrap metal, yard waste and wood waste, or residents can hold onto these materials until the Likely site is re-opened.

We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.
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Evacuation alert lifted for 150 Mile House - Borland Creek Area

Courtesy of the Cariboo RD's Emergency Operations Centre:
Effective immediately, the Cariboo Regional District has lifted the evacuation alert for 150 Mile House – Borland Creek Area residents that was issued on April 22, 2020. An Evacuation Order remains on one property in the area.
See an overview map: https://bit.ly/150mileborlandAL
Residents returning home, are encouraged to consider that there is still high water and flooding in the area and to use caution.
An evacuation alert or order may need to be reissued due to flooding activity and residents must remain prepared:
  • Have a plan to transport all family members or co-workers outside the area (while practicing physical distancing if possible), should the area be brought back under evacuation order.
  • Prepare personal emergency supply kits for your home, car and work (plan for at least a three-day supply of food and water for each family member)
  • Have a grab-and-go kit ready if you have to leave your home quickly
  • Keep important papers in watertight containers and have a record of your valuables in a safe place
  • If flooding is likely in your area, pay attention to the local media for information
  • Watch for warning signs: increase in height and intensity of water flows, mudslides, debris in creeks, colour changes in water or leaning trees
  • Know that banks of rivers and streams may be unstable and dangerous
  • Keep a safe distance away from fast flowing water, especially children
  • Teach your children about flood safety
  • Consider arrangements for your pets and any livestock prior to an alert being issued.
Residents throughout the Cariboo Regional District are reminded to use caution as banks of rivers, streams or washout areas may be unstable and dangerous. Please stay away from fast flowing water, as well as road washouts.
Contact the CRD’s EOC if you have concerns about flooding in your area or need sand or sandbags. It is the homeowner's responsibility to undertake temporary and permanent flood protection works to protect their home and property.
Residents are encouraged to register for the Cariboo Chilcotin Emergency Notification System to receive a text, call or email regarding evacuation alerts and orders: member.everbridge.net/index/453003085612292#/signup
For Cariboo Regional District information, please visit cariboord.ca or facebook.com/CRDEmergencyOperations or @CaribooRD or call the CRD’s emergency information line at 1-866-759-4977 (8:30am – 4:30pm daily).
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Order downgraded to alert for Hawks Creek – Likely Road

Courtesy of the Cariboo RD's Emergency Operations Centre:
Effective immediately, the Cariboo Regional District has downgraded the evacuation order for one property in the Hawks Creek -Likely Road area issued on April 26, 2020 to an evacuation alert, which means residents are allowed to return to the area. Before deciding to return, residents are encouraged to consider that there is still high water and flooding in the area and that they remain on evacuation alert.
See a map of the affected areas: https://bit.ly/hawkscrklikelyEA2
 
Remaining On Evacuation Alert
Since the area remains on evacuation alert, residents should remain prepared for an evacuation:
  • Have a plan to transport all family members or co-workers outside the area (while practicing physical distancing if possible), should the area be brought back under evacuation order.
  • Keep essential items readily available for a quick departure, including medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e. insurance), immediate care needs for dependents and, if you choose, keepsakes (photographs, etc).
  • Ensure that any dependents or pets are prepared for departure.
  • Ensure that pets and livestock remain in a safe area.
  • Ensure that you have accommodation options for your family, if possible. A Reception Centre will be made available if required.
  • Monitor reliable news sources for evacuation order information and the CRD’s channels on Facebook and cariboord.ca. Further information will be issued as it becomes available.

Residents throughout the Cariboo Regional District are reminded to use caution as banks of rivers, streams or washout areas may be unstable and dangerous. Please stay away from fast flowing water, as well as road washouts.
Contact the CRD’s EOC if you have concerns about flooding in your area, need sand and/or sandbags. It is the homeowner's responsibility to undertake temporary and permanent flood protection to protect their home and property.
For Cariboo Regional District information, please visit cariboord.ca/EOC or facebook.com/CRDEmergencyOperations or @CaribooRD or call the CRD’s emergency information line at 1-866-759-4977 (8:30am – 4:30pm daily).
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BC extends Prov. State of Emergency until May 12th

Courtesy of the Government of BC:
The provincial state of emergency is being extended for the third time, to support the extraordinary measures taken by the Province under the Emergency Program Act to keep people safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“British Columbians have shown great leadership in our efforts to flatten the curve, but we can’t take our foot off the gas now,” said BC Premier John Horgan. “As we look toward the future and our ‘new normal,’ we must remember what got us to this point and continue to stay the course now to keep our communities and our loved ones safe.”
The Hon. Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, has officially extended the state of emergency through the end of the day on May 12, 2020.
“I want to relay our government's gratitude to the large majority of people who are doing their part to slow the spread of COVID-19 in B.C.,” Farnworth said. “By extending the state of emergency, we will continue to take action to keep our communities safe through this challenging time, and make sure we stay on the right path in the weeks and months ahead.”
During the last two weeks of the provincial state of emergency, government has taken action to support British Columbians by:
  • working with the cities of Vancouver and Victoria to transition people living in encampments in Oppenheimer Park, Topaz Park and on Pandora Avenue into safe, temporary accommodations with wraparound supports to protect their health and safety in the overlapping COVID-19 and overdose crises;
  • developing a new collaborative framework that will help ensure people living in rural, remote and Indigenous communities in B.C. have access to critical health care they can count on to meet their unique needs during the COVID-19 pandemic;
  • partnering with the federal government on the federal-provincial Canada Emergency Commercial Rent Assistance Program, which will reduce monthly rent for thousands of small businesses in British Columbia;
  • giving police and other enforcement officers the ability to issue $2,000 violation tickets for price gouging and the reselling of medical supplies and other essential goods during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic;
  • distributing up to $35.6 million over three months through Community Living BC to ensure people with developmental disabilities stay supported and safe during the pandemic; and
  • providing enhanced relief for businesses by reducing most commercial property tax bills by an average of 25%, along with new measures to support local governments facing temporary revenue shortfalls as a result of COVID-19.
These actions are part of government's COVID-19 Action Plan, which includes $5 billion in income supports, tax relief and direct funding to support people, businesses and services.
The extension of the provincial state of emergency is based on recommendations from B.C.’s health and emergency management officials. Farnworth made the original declaration on March 18, 2020, after Dr. Bonnie Henry, provincial health officer, declared a public health emergency the previous day.
The Province has created 1 888 COVID-19 (1 888 268-4319) to connect British Columbians needing non-medical information about COVID-19. This includes the latest information on travel recommendations and physical distancing, as well as access to support and resources from the provincial and federal governments. The call line is available seven days a week, from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Pacific time), in 110 languages. People with questions related to their health and COVID-19 should call 811.
Quick Facts:
  • Declarations of provincial states of emergency may be issued by the minister responsible under the Emergency Program Act.
  • The provincial government can extend the period of a declaration made by the minister responsible for further periods of time for up to 14 days at a time.
  • During the 2017 wildfire season, the province was in a provincial state of emergency for 10 weeks, from July 7 to Sept. 15.
Learn More:
For information on non-medical issues like travel recommendations and how to manage social isolation, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/COVID-19
For recommendations on protecting yourself and your community, including for employers, businesses and schools, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/coronavirus-(novel)
For more information and latest medical updates on COVID-19, follow the BCCDC on Twitter @CDCofBC or visit its website: http://www.bccdc.ca/
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NDIT approves $1.8 million in Ec Dev projects

Courtesy of the Northern Development Intiative Trust:

 Editor's Note -- congrats to the Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake for having their NDIT Applications approved

Northern Development today announced the approval of $1,872,266 for 10 projects throughout its service region that seek to strengthen their communities and the economy.

At its April 22 meeting, Northern Development’s Board of Directors approved the following projects through the Economic Diversification Infrastructure Program.
$75,000 was approved for the Vanderhoof Flying Club for the acquisition of an airport aviation fuel system currently located at the Vanderhoof Airport. To enable present and future aviation operations in Vanderhoof, the Vanderhoof Flying Club will purchase and operate the public fuel supply. Profits will go towards the expansion of the flying school and to grow the capability of the school to higher levels of qualification for pilots.
$93,089 was approved for the Graham Island East Cost Farmers Institute for a Masset Market and Artisan Co-op. This project involves the renovation of a vacant building on Masset’s main street into a year-round, indoor home for the Masset Market and a studio/gallery space for a brand-new artisans co-op. The proposed building renovations include new roofing and siding, roll-up garage doors, new windows and doors, new interior walls, a second washroom, an expanded awning and a wooden deck.
$125,000 was approved for the District of Vanderhoof for airfield rehabilitation at the Vanderhoof Airport. The proposed project includes asphalt overlay to the existing surface of the apron and taxiways, culvert replacement and replacement of apron edge lights. Timely maintenance and repair of the surfaces is essential in maintaining load-carrying capacity, good ride quality and good friction characteristics under all weather conditions.
$125,000 was approved for the City of Williams Lake for passenger terminal updates at the Williams Lake Regional Airport. This project includes improvements to the facade of the exterior walls, repairs to concrete barriers and access points, improvements to the signage of the building and energy efficiency improvements to the envelope of the building. The Williams Lake Regional Airport is one of the city’s highest priorities for growth and there is potential for this site to provide development and revenue generation for the area.
$204,177 was approved for the District of Chetwynd for the Chetwynd and District Recreation Centre indoor creative hub. This project will see the installation of a new indoor children’s play facility within the Chetwynd and District Recreation Centre, in partnership with the Peace River Regional District. The project will include the supply and installation of a new high-end play structure, a parent welcoming area, climbing wall enhancements, rubber flooring and indoor play equipment. The indoor play area will be added to the entrance of the facility and offer many opportunities for play and engagement.
$250,000 was approved for the Prince Rupert Gymnastics Association (PRGA) to assist in the renovation of a leased space in Prince Rupert to accommodate a new gymnastics facility. The PRGA requires a larger space in order to expand its program offerings and enhance its economic benefits to the city and region. The new facility will support the expansion of the co-ed recreational program, expansion of the female competitive team, and development of a new male competitive team, as well as additional community programming and events rentals.
$250,000 was approved for the Shackan Indian Band for the Shackan Nursery expansion. The band is expanding operations at its nursery to increase production capacity in order to keep up with demand. Northern Development’s funding will be allocated toward the purchase and installation of two new greenhouses and irrigation systems. The complete project includes site clearing and preparation, site servicing, relocating and recovering the existing greenhouses, installation of two new 600 m2 polycarbonate greenhouses and the purchase of a temporary structure to serve as a bathroom, administrative office and first aid station.
$250,000 was approved for Esk’etemc First Nation for the Esk’etemc store and café renovation. The store is open seven days a week for fuel and convenience items, while the cafe within the building is currently open four days a week for lunch service only. The Nation believes that updates through this project will make the store and cafe more appealing to customers and will result in higher business revenue on a daily basis. This project includes energy efficient entry doors, new durable ceiling panels, interior lighting systems, LED lighting, emergency exits/exterior lighting, accessibility upgrades, safety lighting at entrances, new exterior siding and fascia board.
$250,000 was approved for the City of Quesnel for the Quesnel Food Innovation Hub. This food hub, Sprout Kitchen, will be part of a large, inter-connected network of food hubs within B.C. This network provides food growers/producers, beverage and natural health product entrepreneurs in B.C. with the expertise, resources and tools to innovate and commercialize products to start or expand their local business. The project involves renovations to a commercial business space including electrical, cabinetry, plumbing, refrigeration, lighting and much more. Also included is the purchase of initial equipment required to open a commissary kitchen.
$250,000 was approved for the City of Quesnel for the Quesnel and District Museum renovation. The renovations will both increase the accessibility and safety of the facility. The renovations will greatly increase the flow and walkability of the area, leading visitors through the museum and exiting through the gift shop. This project includes the removal of asbestos floor, upgraded lighting, a fully accessible washroom, updated furnishings, a new ventilation system and more.


 Joel McKay - CEO of NDIT stated:

During these uncertain times, the Trust is fortunate to be able to provide funding to communities and organizations in our region for valuable community projects. From airport and museum upgrades, to innovative food networks and nursery expansions, each project provides both economic and public benefits for those who live and work in Northern B.C.”
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Evacuation Order downgraded to alert for Hawks Creek – Horsefly Road

Courtesy of the Cariboo RD's Emergency Operations Centre:
Effective immediately, the Cariboo Regional District has downgraded the evacuation order for the Hawks Creek – Horsefly to an evacuation alert issued on April 24th, which means residents are allowed to return to the area. Before deciding to return, residents are encouraged to consider that there is still high water and flooding in the area and that they remain on evacuation alert.
See a map of the affected areas: https://bit.ly/hawkscrkhorseflyDA
Remaining On Evacuation Alert
Since the area remains on evacuation alert, residents should remain prepared for an evacuation by:
  • Have a plan to transport all family members or co-workers outside the area, should the area be brought back under evacuation order.
  • Keep essential items readily available for a quick departure, including medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e. insurance), immediate care needs for dependents and, if you choose, keepsakes (photographs, etc).
  • Ensure that any dependents or pets are prepared for departure.
  • Ensure that pets and livestock remain in a safe area.
  • Ensure that you have accommodation options for your family, if possible. A Reception Centre will be made available if required.
  • In the event you are evacuated, do not shut off your natural gas.
Monitor reliable news sources for evacuation order information and the CRD’s channels on Facebook and cariboord.ca. Further information will be issued as it becomes available.
For Cariboo Regional District information, please visit cariboord.ca/EOC or facebook.com/CRDEmergencyOperations or @CaribooRD or call the CRD’s emergency information line at 1-866-759-4977 (8:30am – 4:30pm daily).
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Nature’s unpredictable power

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

 Weekly Quesnel City Council column by Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson.  He can be reached via email here

This past weekend we experienced nature’s destructive power as Baker Creek swelled with spring melt and overflowed its banks. By Sunday, the Creek’s rushing waters had brought down trees and hydro poles, destroyed a water main and sewer line, eroded large sections of the Riverfront Trail and Wilma Hanson Park, and threatened one home.

Over the course of the weekend, the City’s Public Works Department, private contractors, BC Hydro crews, and Fortis Gas workers were all forced to respond to one crisis after another, depending on what the Creek was doing moment by moment. The large trees and debris the Creek carried into the City kept changing where the force of the rushing waters was being directed, with many of the trees getting hung up on the Baker Creek Bridge at Anderson Drive, backing the water up and eroding the banks alongside the two auto dealers that flank the bridge.

Notwithstanding the know-it-alls and armchair generals on social media, there was no predictability to what the Creek was doing at any given moment and no precedent for the level of simultaneous destruction of infrastructure experienced this weekend. It’s an understatement to say that all the crews responding to this event did an outstanding job under high duress and they deserve our appreciation and applause.

City and contract crews will continue to work on protecting the Baker Creek Bridge, repairing the broken sewer line, putting protective rip rap along portions of the Riverfront Trail to prevent further erosion, and testing the water in the repaired main (the boil water advisory will remain in place until three tests are completed to the satisfaction of Northern Health). 

As this work continues, City Staff will work with the Provincial Emergency Program and Emergency Management BC to secure provincial funding for the emergency work that was conducted during the flooding event as well as the critical repairs we’ll need to undertake in order to restore our infrastructure and stabilize the creek’s banks. Staff will also seek provincial funding for the comprehensive geotechnical and hydrological analysis that will be needed to develop a rehabilitation and remediation strategy for Baker Creek.

Unplanned events like the flooding we experienced this weekend are a reminder to us all just how vulnerable we are to nature’s unpredictable power. Coming on top of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s also another reminder that the City needs to have the financial reserves and fiscal flexibility to address emergent and unpredictable issues when they arise.

The long-term financial sustainability of the City of Quesnel is one of the most fundamental responsibilities of its elected Mayor and Council. With an increasingly unpredictable global economy and growing instability in natural ecosystems, Council must exercise prudence as it adjusts this year’s already approved budget. Council needs to do the right thing to ensure the long-term viability of our community by making principled decisions about any budget adjustments it makes.

Baker Creek Flooding Resources
www.quesnel.ca/baker-creek-flooding
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Tuesday, April 28, 2020

April 28th, 2020 #COVID-19 Numbers

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

 Editor's Note -- Joint Statement from BC's Health Minister/Provincial Health Officer -- Hon. Adrian Dix/Dr. Bonnie Henry -- can be viewed here

The COVID-19 situation in British Columbia is continually evolving, and the information below is current as of 3 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28, 2020.
Cases:
  • Total confirmed cases in B.C.: 2,053
  • New cases since April 27, 2020: 55
  • Hospitalized cases: 94
  • Intensive care: 37
  • COVID-19 related deaths: 105
  • Recovered: 1,231
  • Long-term care and assisted-living homes currently affected: 20
  • Acute-care unit outbreaks: 3
Confirmed cases by region:
  • Vancouver Coastal Health: 803
  • Fraser Health: 918
  • Island Health: 119
  • Interior Health: 168
  • Northern Health: 45
New provincial advice and measures:
New federal measures:
Media availability schedule:
Upcoming scheduled media availability with Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer:
Wednesday, April 29 – 3 p.m., Victoria
Thursday, April 30 – 3 p.m., Victoria
Resources:
* For provincial support and COVID-19 information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/covid 
* For seniors looking for additional support at this time, call 211 or visit: http://www.bc211.ca/ 
* For information for Indigenous peoples in B.C., visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/indigenous-people/covid19 
* If you or a family member need additional medical advice, call 811.
Testing:
* For the latest statistics, including testing, visit the BC Centre for Disease Control's COVID-19 dashboard:http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/data 
* If symptoms appear, check your symptoms online: https://covid19.thrive.health 
* If needed, call your health-care provider or 811 for further guidance
Learn More:
For the latest videos and livestreaming of COVID-19 media availabilities, visit:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment/ 
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/ProvinceofBC 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BCGovNews
For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, follow @CDCofBC on Twitter
Or visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
For the provincial health officer's orders, notices and guidance, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/phoguidance
For non-health related information, including financial, child care and education supports, travel, transportation and essential service information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/Covid-19
Or call 1 888 COVID19 (1 888 268-4319) between 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Pacific time), seven days a week.
For recommendations on protecting yourself and your community, including for employers and businesses, visit: 
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/coronavirus-(novel)
For common questions about COVID-19 and terminology, visit: 
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/common-questions
Worker and employer information:
For workers and employers who need help understanding the law and their rights, have workplace health and safety questions or who need help with claims, call:
Employment Standards Branch: 1 833 236-3700
For health and safety assistance: 1 888 621-7233 (1 888 621-SAFE)
For workers and claims: 1 888 967-5377 (1 888 WORKERS)
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