Cariboo-Chilcotin Politics: May 2020

Saturday, May 30, 2020

May 30th, 2020 #COVID-19 Numbers

Joint Statement from BC's Health Minister/Provincial Health Officer (Hon. Adrian Dix/Dr. Bonnie Henry):

Editor's Note -- next update to be provided on Monday, June 1st

“Today, we are announcing 11 new cases, for a total of 2,573 cases in British Columbia.

"There are 228 active cases of COVID-19 in the province, and 2,181 people who tested positive for COVID-19 have recovered.

"Of the total COVID-19 cases, 35 individuals are hospitalized, five of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people with COVID-19 are recovering at home in self-isolation.

"Every health region in British Columbia has patients with COVID-19. Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 902 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 1,285 in the Fraser Health region, 127 in the Island Health region, 195 in the Interior Health region and 64 in the Northern Health region.

"There have been no new COVID-19 related deaths in the last day, for a total of 164 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"There have been no new health-care outbreaks and two outbreaks have been declared over at Haro Park and at Evergreen House. In total, 13 long-term care or assisted-living facilities and one acute-care unit have active outbreaks.

“Public health teams continue to provide support for the community outbreaks at federal corrections facilities, food processing facilities, in the poultry sector, and for individuals connected to the Kearl Lake plant in Alberta.

“On Monday, our K-12 schools will re-open to in-class learning for the remainder of the school year. We are ready for this and are re-opening schools because it is safe to do so.

“We have learned a lot about COVID-19 – where the greatest risks are, and the measures we can take to protect ourselves and our loved ones.

“We know that COVID-19 has a very low infection rate in children, and children have milder symptoms. We also know that transmission in children, and between adults and children mostly occurs in household settings, not in schools, or playgrounds.

“We have purposely timed the re-opening for two weeks after the start of phase two to make sure we could proceed safely. Had there been a significant increase in new cases, schools would not be opening.

“Restarting in-class instruction now is a cautious approach that gives teachers and other education staff the tools and experience to prepare for the larger return to school in the fall, while supporting those children and families who need it.

“Much thought and consideration has gone into this decision; to provide the best protection to everyone in our schools – students, teachers, learning assistants, and administrators.

“This is the right time to make this happen, and precautions and safety measures are in place.

“While we are proceeding with the re-opening of in-class learning, as we look ahead to the summer months, a new Provincial Health Officer order has been put in place restricting the operation of overnight camps for children and youth. Such camps often have large numbers of people, making safe physical distancing a challenge.

“We must remember that large gatherings are a significant risk for transmission. This is because someone can be asymptomatic or have very mild symptoms, and data has shown us that the more people you are around, the higher the likelihood that someone has COVID-19.

“Inside or outside, a family get-together, a workplace meeting or religious service – the risk of transmission increases the larger the gathering.

“Let’s not put at risk the sacrifice of so many and undo the progress we have made so far. To keep COVID-19 at bay we need to stay slow and low, moving slowly with thoughtful consideration and keeping our curve flat.”

Learn More:

For the Your story, our future survey, visit: www.bccdc.ca/covid19survey
Those who cannot complete the survey online or need assistance in another language can call 1 833 707-1900 to take the survey over the phone. Assistance is available seven days a week between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. (Pacific time), in 150 languages.

For more information about BC’s Restart Plan, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/restartbc

For B.C.’s surgical renewal plan, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/conducting-health-research-evaluation/reports-publications

For the slides presented at the May 4 media briefing, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/modelling-projections

For mental health and anxiety support, visit: www.bouncebackbc.ca
Or: www.anxietycanada.com

For guidance and information on self-isolation and self-monitoring, including how to isolate if you live with others, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/self-isolation

For the provincial health officer’s orders, notices and guidance, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/phoguidance

For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
Or follow @CDCofBC on Twitter.

To learn where, when and how people with symptoms can be tested, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/testing

The COVID-19 self-assessment app, which includes details about where, when and how to be tested, can be downloaded here: https://bc.thrive.health/

To learn more about Fair PharmaCare, including coverage, how to request an income review and the monthly deductible payment option, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Register_for_Fair_PharmaCare.pdf

For non-health related information, including financial, child care and education supports, travel, transportation and essential service information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/covid19 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 the latest videos and livestreaming of COVID-19 media availabilities, visit:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BCProvincialGovernment/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BCGovNews
YouTube: www.youtube.com/ProvinceofBC

Friday, May 29, 2020

Local Gov't Mtgs - Week of June 1-5

The following local governments of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be meeting next week, as follows:

Quesnel - Meetings as noted below:

Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee -- Regular Electronic Meeting on Tuesday, June 2nd at 3:15pm in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant Street)

On the Agenda:

* Tax and Community Stabilization Fund
* Commercial Cardboard

View the full Agenda here

City Council -- Regular Electronic Meeting on Tuesday, June 2nd at 6:00pm in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant Street).

On the Agenda:

* Council Reports -- North Cariboo Seniors' Council & Pay for Paramedics
* Draft Climate Action Page
* Climate Action Revenue Incentive Program - Annual Report
* Gymnastics Facility
* Liquor/Cannabis Regulation Branch - Temporary Expanded Service Area Authorizations

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, June 2nd at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart Street). On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Maureen Straza, Accessibility Advisory Committee Chair re Access Awareness Day Grant Application

* Poll of Council - City Hall Replacement Siding
* Proclamation - "Stampede Spirit Week" - June 22 to 30, 2020
* Poll of Council - Limited Reopening of City Hall - Phase 1
* OCP & Zoning Amendment Applications - Bylaws No. 2333 & 2334 - Grassland Equipment Ltd. - Portion Changed to Mixed Use (MU) Designation & Service Commercial (CS-1) Zone -
600 Eleventh Avenue North

* LCRB Temporary Expanded Service Area Authorization
* Telecommunications Upgrades in Council Chambers -- City Staff request direction from WL City Council
* Banner to Celebrate 2020 High School Graduates
* Letter: DWLBIA Letter of Support Request - NDIT Grant Application
* 2020 Reverse Graduation Parade - Request for Approval

View the full Agenda here

May 29th, 2020 #COVID-19 Numbers

Joint Statement of BC's Health Minister/Provincial Health Officer (Hon. Adrian Dix/Dr. Bonnie Henry):

“Today, we are announcing four new cases, for a total of 2,562 cases in British Columbia.

“There are 228 active cases of COVID-19 in the province and 2,170 people who tested positive have recovered.

“Of the total COVID-19 cases, 34 individuals are hospitalized, six of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people with COVID-19 are recovering at home in self-isolation.

“Every health region in British Columbia has patients with COVID-19. Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 900 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 1,277 in the Fraser Health region, 127 in the Island Health region, 195 in the Interior Health region and 63 in the Northern Health region.

“There have been no new COVID-19 related deaths in the last day, for a total of 164 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"There have been no new health-care facility outbreaks. In total, 15 long-term care or assisted-living facilities and one acute-care unit have active outbreaks.

“Public health teams continue to provide support for community outbreaks at federal corrections facilities, the processing facilities in the poultry sector and for individuals connected to the Kearl Lake plant in Alberta.

“WorkSafeBC’s COVID-19 guidance has been developed through a collaboration of public health and workplace experts. The comprehensive guidance balances creating opportunities to safely restart many activities and the ability to protect everyone as we do that.

“WorkSafeBC is the first stop when looking for the latest information and guidance for your workplace. Check the website frequently or call the WorkSafeBC Prevention Information Line at 1 888 621-SAFE, as new information is added every day: www.worksafebc.com

“We commend the federal government’s decision to maintain the restrictions on cruise ships in Canadian waters until October. This is the right thing to do for our country and our province right now to prevent the introduction of COVID-19 into our coastal communities.

“Easing restrictions can be done only after thoughtful consideration. Our focus and priority are the health and safety of all British Columbians. With your help and all of us doing our part, we will get through this storm together.”

Learn More:

For more information about BC’s Restart Plan, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/restartbc

For B.C.’s surgical renewal plan, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/conducting-health-research-evaluation/reports-publications

For the slides presented at the May 4 media briefing, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/modelling-projections

For mental health and anxiety support, visit: www.bouncebackbc.ca
Or: www.anxietycanada.com

For the provincial health officer’s orders, notices and guidance, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/phoguidance

For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
Or follow @CDCofBC on Twitter.

To learn where, when and how people with symptoms can be tested, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/testing

The COVID-19 self-assessment app, which includes details about where, when and how to be tested, can be downloaded here: https://bc.thrive.health/

For a Chinese translation: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/2020.05.29_New_ExistingCasesCOVID-19_CN.pdf

Cariboo RD Board Highlights - May 29th mtg

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

Meeting held electronically and called to order at 9:45am

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the May 8th Cariboo RD Board Meeting were received/adopted

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director Forseth (Area 'D')

The Board received the Delegations Memorandum of Business

Business:

1) The Board adopted Temporary Use Permit Bylaw No. 5230, 2019 (Area H/Davies) with an condition on adoption being:

That the applicants be advised that should they try to hold an event prior to completion of the sediment control measures that they have undertaken to complete as soon as weather and ground conditions allow, that the Board will immediately proceed with the steps necessary to rescind this approval.

2) The Board approved Development Variance Permit #3/2020 (Area A/Barr - 1902 Crystal Street)

3) The Board approved Development Permit #13-2020 (Area A/950 Mountain Ash Road - School District #28 (Quesnel))

4) The Board approved entering into an contribution agreement with the Likely & District Chamber of Commerce for Community Works Funds ($3,000) for two new energy efficient refrigerators at the Likely Community Hall.

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director Forseth (Area D)

5) The Board supported an NDIT grant application from the Horsefly Community Club to the Northern Development Initiative Trust for $15,000 in funding from the Community Halls and Recreation Facilities Program for the installation of a commercial kitchen.

6) The Board approved a contribution of $5,000 be made from the North Cariboo Economic Development function to support a North Cariboo Shop Local campaign

7) At the request of Director S. Forseth (Area D) -- The Tyee Lake Community Association was approved for a $1,000 Grant for their 2020 AGM with source of funds being the Area D Grant for Assistance Fund

8) The Board received a request from Stick & Stone Cannabis Co. and the Association of Canadian Cannabis Retailers (ACCRES) for the CRD Board’s support of the provincial government modifying the cannabis retail regulations to allow online sales of cannabis products by regulated private retailers and the provision of direct door-to-door delivery to customers and took no further action

9) The Board approved the COVID-19 Reintroduction of Library Services in the Cariboo Regional District, as outlined in the Staff report

10) The Board received the Consent Calendar as of May 29th, 2020

11) The Board received meeting minutes from the following meetings:

a) Protective Services Committee - Feb 12th, 2020 meeting

Meeting recessed at 11:00am to CCRHD Board

Meeting resumed at 11:35am

Business, cont:

a) Protective Services Committee - Feb 12th, 2020 meeting

b) South Cariboo Joint Committee - May 13th, 2020 meeting

And endorsed the following recommendation from the May 13th meeting of the South Cariboo Joint Committee as follows:

That the agenda item summary from Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, dated May 4, 2020, regarding Cariboo Strong funding to support implementation of the South Cariboo Wheelchair Accessible Trails Project, be received. Further, that $30,000 from the South Cariboo allocation of Cariboo Strong grant funding be approved for the project.

12) At the request of the Board Vice-Chair (Area 'C' Director J.Massier) - the Board agreed to recommend the appointment of Area 'G' Director Al Richmond to the Barkerville Heritage Trust Board.

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director Forseth (Area 'D')

13) At the request of Director M. LeBourdais - the Board authorized $99 from Electoral Area Administration for her to attend Canada’s Rural & Remote Broadband Virtual Conference taking place June 8-9, 2020 in her Capacity as Chair of the Broadband Committee

14) The Board received the Chair's activity report as of May 26th, 2020

At 12:38pm -- the Board resolved into a Closed Session (In-Camera) as per Sections 92 (resolution to proceed to closed meeting passed in an open meeting) and 90(1i & k) of the Community Charter [legal advice and negotiations]

At 1:28pm -- The Board meeting resumed its open meeting & adjourned

CCRHD Board Highlights - May 29th mtg

Present: Chair B. Simpson/Vice Chair A. Richmond and Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, Delainey, LeBourdais, Wagner, Glassford, Kirby, Mernett, Macdonald, Fourchalk, Cobb Campsall and TNRD Area 'E' Director S. Watson

Meeting held electronically and was called to order at 9:30am

Meeting Agenda Adopted

Minutes of the May 8th CCRHD Board Meeting were received/adopted

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director Forseth (Area 'D')

The Board received the CCRHD Delegations Memorandum of Business

Business:

1) The Board received the Hospital Consent Calendar

The Chair provided an Capital Projects update for Cariboo Memorial Hospital and GR Baker Hospital

At 9:41am - The Board resolved into a Closed Session (In-Camera) as per Sections 92 (resolution to proceed to closed session in an open meeting) and 90(1j - information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter

The Board resumed its' public meeting & recessed at 9:43am

Meeting resumed at 11:00am

Delegation:

Penny Anguish, Chief Operating Officer; Daryl Petsul, Quesnel Health Services Administrator; Mike Hoefer, Regional Director, Capital Planning and Support Services; and Peter Kallos, Director, Development Services -- all from Northern Health appeared before the Board, via electronic means, to provide updates.

A Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair thanked the delegation for their time/information

The Board adjourned at 11:34am

Gold Pan Relocation

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Within the coming months, the City of Quesnel’s gold pan, currently located at the corner of Hwy 97 and Hwy 26, will be removed, refurbished and relocated to the Quesnel Train Station. Planning and work are already underway at the Train Station to ensure the safe installation of the gold pan.

The move into the inner city area, close to the Quesnel Museum and Visitor Centre, will put the gold pan in a centralized hub, which will not only support growth in the downtown but will also add vibrancy by attracting more visitors to the downtown core. This new centralized location will provide more opportunities to entice visitors to explore the area than they have been able to at the location on the outskirts of the city.

New signage will be installed at the corner of Hwy 97 and Hwy 26 welcoming travellers entering Quesnel from the north. The new gateway sign is part of the complete wayfinding program that is currently being implemented.

Once removed from its current location, the gold pan, originally erected in 1987, will be repainted. There will also be interpretive signage telling visitors more about the importance of Quesnel during the gold rush at the new location.

Gold Pan relocation - background

In 2018 the City of Quesnel updated its community signage (place-making) program. The updated program included new signage to help tourists find points of interest in Quesnel and new community gateway signage. The process to update this program included workshops with arts, culture and heritage groups and the business community, as well as an open house and survey for the public.

The final report included a recommendation to move the gold pan to a more central location.

On October 22, 2019, a vote to the relocate the City's gold pan sign from its current site on Highway 97 North to the BC Rail lands adjacent to the station house, located at 710 Legion Drive, Quesnel, BC was approved https://quesnel.civicweb.net/document/116727.

The Quesnel Train Station was selected because it can be easily accessed from Hwy 97 which will allow visitors to access restaurants and shops. The train station is also home to the Rocky Mountaineer, a Canadian rail-tour company in Western Canada that operates trains on three rail routes through British Columbia and Alberta. In 2019 the Rocky Mountaineer brought over 6,000 tourists to Quesnel who started and ended their experience at the train station.

The place-making and wayfinding project falls under the Destination Development pillar of the City of Quesnel’s Economic Development Transition Strategy.

For more information about the City’s place-making and wayfinding strategy, visit: www.quesnel.ca/wayfinding

For more information about the City’s Economic Development Transition Strategy, visit: www.quesnel.ca/transition

For more information about the Pacific Great Eastern Railway Station, visit: www.quesnel.ca/pacific-great-eastern-railway-station

For more information about the Quesnel Museum and Archives, visit: www.quesnelmuseum.ca

For more information about the Quesnel Visitor Centre, visit: www.quesnel.ca/visitor-centre

FAQ

Q – Where will the gold pan be moved to?
A – The Quesnel Train Station - located at 710 Legion Drive, better known as the Pacific Great Eastern Railway Station.

The train station is a prominent location in the centre of the city and is an important piece of Quesnel’s heritage. The building was constructed in 1921 and continues to be used as a railway station. It is also the home of the Rocky Mountaineer that welcomes hundreds of travellers coming to Quesnel every week during the tourist season.

Q – Why was the Train Station selected as the new location for the gold pan?
A – The train station and surrounding area are considered a centralized hub for the City of Quesnel. The station is located in downtown Quesnel which is the commercial and administrative centre of the city. It is also central to the Visitor Information Centre that hosts a gold pan loan program and has RV parking. Also, the gold pan will be close to the Quesnel Museum and Archives which features Quesnel’s rich history. The location is also considered a central transportation point for many travellers on their way to Barkerville.

Q – Is the gold pan a historical heritage item?
A – No. The gold pan was originally installed in 1987, as part of a community marketing campaign brought in by Expo 86. At that time, many communities across British Columbia installed oversized features/attractions.

Q – Where do other communities display their oversized attractions?
A – Typically communities install these attractions within a central location or close to their community Visitor Centre. Examples include 100 Mile House, Williams Lake and Houston.

Wednesday, May 27, 2020

Central Cariboo Joint Committee Highlights - May 27th mtg

Present from Cariboo RD -- Directors Forseth, Delainey and LeBourdais

Present from WL City Council -- Chair J. Ryll and Councillors Bonnell/Boehm

Meeting called to order at 5:30pm

The Chair recognized that the meeting was being held on traditional Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) territory, reminded members to place their phones into silent/vibrate mode or turn them off and finally, he read out the following statement:

"Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing guidelines will be followed during all meetings of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee to ensure the health and safety of Committee members, staff and the public. Please be respectful of these measures at all times"

Meeting agenda approved
Minutes of the February 26th, 2020 Joint Committee meeting were received/adopted

Business:

1) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society's '2020 Arts & Culture 1st Quarter Report'

The 1st 2020 Quarter Report from the Society was before the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - Report received

2) Community Services COVID-19 Update re Recreation Recovery & Re-Opening Plan

A report from the City's Director of Community Services (I. James) was before the Committee
A Powerpoint presentation was provided to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That the Committee receive for information the presentation of Ian James, Director of Community Services, City of Williams Lake dated May 21, 2020 regarding the recreation recovery and re-opening plan for the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex

3) BC Games Society 2024/2026 Summer/Winter Bid Package

The BC Games Society 2024/2026 Bid Package was before the Committee
Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That the Committee receive the BC Games Society 2024/2026 Summer/Winter Bid Package and Staff confirm deadlines to apply/confirmation on bid plans by the City of Quesnel and report back to the Committee

4) The Committee discussed the following two items -- Canada Day 2020 & Council Alternates Attending Joint Committee Meetings -- and resolved the following:

a) Resolved - That the Terms of Reference for Joint Committee be amended to reflect allowance for alternates to attend on behalf of the 3 appointed members of Williams Lake City Council, as required

5) Action Page

Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved -- Action Page received and Items #2,7,8,9 be deleted from the Action Page as they are completed and that the $10,000 allocated to Daybreak Rotary to put on a 2020 WL Stampede Parade be brought back to June's Joint Committee meeting for review (Action Page - Item #10)

The Committee adjourned at 7:01pm to convene an In-Camera Meeting of Joint Committee as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter

May 27th, 2020 #COVID-19 Numbers

Joint Statement from BC's Health Minister/Provincial Health Officer (Hon. Adrian Dix/Dr. Bonnie Henry):

“Today, we are announcing nine new cases, for a total of 2,550 cases in British Columbia.

“There are 244 active cases of COVID-19 in the province, and 2,144 people who tested positive have recovered.

“Of the total COVID-19 cases, 37 individuals are hospitalized, seven of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people with COVID-19 are recovering at home in self-isolation.

“Every health region in British Columbia has patients with COVID-19. Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 899 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 1,267 in the Fraser Health region, 127 in the Island Health region, 194 in the Interior Health region and 63 in the Northern Health region.

“There has been one new COVID-19 related death in the last day in the Fraser Health region, for a total of 162 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There have been no new health-care outbreaks. In total, 14 long-term care or assisted-living facilities and one acute-care unit have active outbreaks.

“We are moving forward carefully into Phase 2, assessing our progress week by week, and we are encouraged by what we have seen so far.

“COVID-19 has a two-week incubation period, which means any new cases that are a result of the easing of restrictions will start to appear over the coming week.

“With this in mind, let’s continue to take advantage of parks and other activities closer to home, and look to increase social interactions only after fully considering the risks to you and your family.

“Once we have a good understanding of how we are doing in mid-June, we’ll have the data we need to determine our timing for further actions.

“This slow and thoughtful approach is our ‘new normal.’ It is grounded in what we know about COVID-19 today and will continue to be adapted as we learn more in the weeks and months ahead.”

Learn More:

For the Your story, our future survey, visit: www.bccdc.ca/covid19survey.
Those who cannot complete the survey online or need assistance in another language can call 1 833 707-1900 to take the survey over the phone. Assistance is available seven days a week between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. (Pacific time), in 150 languages.

For more information about BC’s Restart Plan, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/restartbc

For B.C.’s surgical renewal plan, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/conducting-health-research-evaluation/reports-publications

For the slides presented at the May 4 media briefing, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/modelling-projections

For mental health and anxiety support, visit: www.bouncebackbc.ca
Or: www.anxietycanada.com

For the provincial health officer’s orders, notices and guidance, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/phoguidance

For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/
Or follow @CDCofBC on Twitter.

To learn where, when and how people with symptoms can be tested, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/testing

The COVID-19 self-assessment app, which includes details about where, when and how to be tested, can be downloaded here: https://bc.thrive.health/

For non-health related information, including financial, child care and education supports, travel, transportation and essential service information, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/covid19
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 a Chinese translation: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/2020.05.27_New_ExistingCasesCOVID-19_CN.pdf

BC State of Emergency extended until June 9th, 2020

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

The provincial state of emergency is being extended an additional two weeks to support continued co-ordination of B.C.’s COVID-19 response.

“We are now in the longest state of emergency in our province’s history, and British Columbians everywhere have shown we have what it takes to persevere through these challenging times,” said BC Premier John Horgan. “As we slowly turn the dial on our social and economic activity, we must work together to do so in a way that keeps our communities and loved ones safe in the weeks and months to come.”

The Hon. Mike Farnworth, BC's Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, is extending the state of emergency as B.C. begins to safely and carefully restart the province. B.C. is now in Phase 2 of its Restart Plan, which lays out a series of steps and principles that everyone must follow to protect people and ensure the province can come back from COVID-19 stronger than before.

“As businesses work hard to safely reopen their doors and friends and families carefully expand their social bubbles, we are beginning to see what this global challenge will look like in B.C.,” Farnworth said. “Our government is committed to supporting people and businesses for the long road ahead, and we will continue to find ways to keep the economy moving and keep people safe.”

The current state of emergency is being extended through the end of the day on June 9, 2020. During the past two weeks of the provincial state of emergency, government has taken action to support British Columbians by:

welcoming the release of the initial set of WorkSafeBC guidelines that will help businesses and organizations develop their plans to reopen safely during Phase 2 of BC’s Restart Plan;
helping the province’s hospitality sector by temporarily authorizing the expansion of service areas, such as patios, to support physical distancing requirements and industry recovery during the COVID-19 pandemic;
supporting people working on the front lines in B.C.’s health-care system, social services and corrections by providing temporary COVID-19 pandemic pay as part of a cost-shared program with the federal government;
announcing that parents will have the choice to bring their children back to class on a part-time basis this school year as part of BC’s Restart Plan, with the goal of returning to full-time classes in September 2020; and
supporting people who were living in encampments in Victoria at Topaz Park and on Pandora Avenue to move into secured temporary accommodations, with wraparound supports to protect their health and safety.

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.

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 up to 14 days at a time.
The current state of emergency is the longest in B.C.’s history, surpassing the 2017 wildfire season when the province was in a state of emergency for 10 weeks from July 7 to Sept. 15.

Learn More:

For information on BC’s Restart Plan, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/RestartBC

For information on non-medical issues like travel recommendations and how to manage social isolation, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/COVID-19

For information on federal and provincial government supports available to individuals, families, businesses and organizations, visit: www.gov.bc.ca/covidgovernmentbenefits

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/

#UBCM2020 goes Digital!

Courtesy of the Union of BC Municipalities:

The 2020 UBCM Convention will be going ahead in a virtual format September 22-24. “Over the last century, UBCM has found ways to meet during the great depression, two world wars and the Spanish Flu pandemic,” said Mayor Maja Tait, UBCM President. “We will also find a way for our members to meet and deliberate the issues that matter to B.C.’s communities in 2020.” UBCM received provincial support and authorization to hold a virtual meeting through an order issued by Minister Farnworth and direction provided by UBCM’s Executive.

UBCM’s Executive directed staff to ensure that a virtual Convention would provide a rich experience for all members, including the consideration of resolutions in an abbreviated format; addresses by the Premier, other party leaders and Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing; and workshops aimed at the top issues facing communities. “Everyone is feeling ‘zoomed out’ right now,” said President Tait, “We are going to pull out the stops to make sure the 2020 Convention is dynamic, interactive and engaging.”

UBCM is aware of the connectivity challenges that exist in various regions of the province and is reaching out to its members to explore solutions. “We want to make sure that every local government and our First Nations members have access to the full Convention. Access to high quality internet access varies considerably across the province, but we will find ways to overcome those challenges through the hallmarks of UBCM: cooperation, sharing and working together.”

In June, UBCM will share details on the platform for this year’s meeting, and registration will open in July.

We are very appreciative of the support and collaboration provided by the City of Victoria, the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, our sponsors, partner associations and the many service providers that support the delivery and hosting of the Convention as we adapt to current health and safety rules.

UBCM is working through cancellation policies details with the official hotels for the 2020 Convention. We will provide updates on those policies once discussions are completed.

If you have questions or comments about the 2020 Convention, please contact Gary MacIsaac, UBCM Executive Director.

Quesnel Council Highlights - May 26th, 2020 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Phased Reopening of City Facilities

There are numerous City facilities that must be considered when City staff is developing the City’s re-opening plans. Sectoral specific re-opening plans are in varying stages of development by WorkSafe BC, the BC Recreation and Parks Association, various provincial sports specific governing organizations, and the advice from the Public Health Office. The City is attempting to balance public safety concerns with the desires of the public to be able to start to transition to the next phase of COVID-19 recovery. The following preparations/actions are being taken, and are subject to change to evolving guidelines, and any COVID-19 community outbreaks:

City Hall

City Hall will reopen to the public on June 1, 2020.
Plexiglass dividers and distancing controls have been put in place for the public to access the front desk.
Reduced capacity to all meeting rooms, with sanitizing measures put in place, for City staff needs.
Council meetings could resume in Council Chambers, where the public can attend, by the end of June subject to COVID-19 safety measures.
The meetings rooms in City Hall are closed to outside organizations/public rentals.

Recreation & Parks

City parks, trails, skate park, bike parks, dog park, and tennis/pickle ball courts are currently open with users reminded to practice safe social distancing and other measures to prevent the spread of COVID19.
Playgrounds – City staff are reviewing sectoral and health department guidelines and recommendations and are working with the Quesnel School District to determine when City and School District playgrounds may reopen.
Organized sports on City fields - waiting on provincial sectoral guidelines to be finalized.
Indoor Recreation Facilities and Recreation Programs – City staff are reviewing guidelines for a gradual reopening of recreation facilities and the resumption of recreation programming and plan to bring a report to the North Cariboo Joint Planning Committee in June.

Next Steps: as the year progresses, Council will be provided with regular updates to the phased re-opening of City facilities.

Delegation – Enbridge Regional Update

Rikki Beaudet, Community and Indigenous Engagement Advisor, and Jeff Smedley, Lands and Right-of-Way Specialist provided an Enbridge regional update. This update included the work being done around added safety measures put in place as a result of the Enbridge pipeline rupture approximately 13.5 kilometers north of Prince George in October 2018. The update also included operational and maintenance works being completed in and around the City of Quesnel, specifically: Compressor Station #5 Australian (south of Quesnel), Racing Road/Hwy 97; Ten Mile Lake Road; Moffat Lake Road; Quesnel-Hixon Road and Windt Road. All of these projects will employ approximately 120 workers. All personnel will be encouraged to support local businesses for their day-to-day living needs while working in the area.

Delegation – Cariboo Chilcotin Region Labour Market Strategy

Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, and Miriam Schilling, Economic Development Officer, from the Cariboo Regional District, provided a summary of the Cariboo Chilcotin Region Labour Market Strategy (“Strategy”) that was funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia. The Strategy, pre COVID-19, identified labour trends and future job needs for the Cariboo Chilcotin region.

Bylaw Amendments - Solid Waste & Municipal Ticketing Information

Council approved final adoption of Solid Waste & Municipal Ticketing Information Bylaw amendments that will:

Adjust bylaw to reflect the discontinuation of commercial garbage pickup services that will take effect July 1, 2020.
Restrict setting out residential garbage carts overnight to assist Conservation Officers and Bylaw Enforcement Officers dealing with nuisance complaints of wildlife and domestic animals spreading garbage on the streets, sidewalks and properties on garbage pick up days. Residents must now set out residential garbage carts between the hours of 4 a.m. – 8 a.m. As always, Bylaw Enforcement Officers will firstly begin with providing strategic educational awareness to residents in problematic areas, and secondly issue $50 fine(s) to egregious offender(s).

Museum and Visitor Centre Renovation

Council approved the following items related to allow the Museum and Visitor Centre Renovation Project planned for 2020:

The museum will not reopen to allow for an earlier start to the project and to provide more time for staff to move and store equipment and artifacts.
The Visitor Centre will be temporarily relocated to the Billy Baker Days Office in Lebourdais Park during the construction period.
City staff will apply to the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund for eligible costs up to 50% of the total project cost for the Museum and Visitor Centre Renovation Project.

Statement of Financial Information

Council reviewed the City’s 2019 Statement of Financial Information. The Community Charter requires local governments to publish, each year, a report showing council remuneration, expenses and contracts.

Bylaws

1890 – Solid Waste Collection and Disposal Amendments – First, Second, Third and Final Adoption

Next Meeting

6:00 pm – June 2, 2020 – Council Meeting

Investing in our transition strategy

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

As we all struggle to understand and move toward whatever our “new normal” will be, Council continues to invest in our community transition strategy. It’s even more critical that we do so as we begin to better understand some of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on our local economy.

For most of its recent history, Quesnel depended on its industrial property tax base to foot the bill for the building and maintenance of core infrastructure (roads, sidewalks, sewer, water, etc.) and most amenity investments (recreation facilities, parks, playgrounds, etc.). At peak, industrial ratepayers paid over 70% of the total tax bill, while residential ratepayers, who get the lion’s share of municipal services, covered well below 20% of the costs of running the City.

The most recent Mountain Pine Beetle epidemic, unprecedented wildfires, and fundamental changes in the way forest products are manufactured have all diminished the relative size of the forest sector in BC. Quesnel has been on the forefront of this change; first with jobs being replaced by technology, then a combination of corporate concentration and significant reductions in the available timber supply resulting in permanent mill closures.

In 2014, Quesnel City Council finally and fully embraced that a fundamental shift was occurring in Quesnel’s forest-dependent economy and restructured the City’s finances to wean it off its industrial dependency while initiating an aggressive transition strategy to ensure our community remains a vibrant, resilient, and interesting place for people to visit, live, and invest in. It looks like the addition of this year’s COVID-19 pandemic to successive years of pine beetle and fires is going to accelerate the downward spiral in the forest sector, making it even more critical that we drive our transition strategy.

With a combination of grant funding, federal gas tax money, and local tax dollars, Council will continue to make strategic investments in amenities and infrastructure to drive our transition. We’re also actively developing shovel-ready plans for projects that we may be able to undertake should some “COVID-relief” infrastructure funding be made available by the federal and/or provincial governments.

If you’ve been to the landfill, you’ll see that the new Public Works building is progressing well. Once this new building is completed this fall, our Public Works crews and equipment will be moved into their new home, allowing us to redevelop the area around the Johnston Bridge where they are currently located. Plans are being developed for an on-river RV and tenting campground (at the downstream side of the bridge) that will give a significant boost to our local economy in the coming years.

If you’ve been to LeBourdais Park recently, you’ll see that the area between the playground and the parking lot has been cleaned up and new picnic tables installed to accommodate both families using the playground and visitors to the Visitors’ Centre and Museum. This year a major interior and exterior renovation to the Museum and Visitor Centre will also be completed, making this whole area a premier attraction for locals and visitors alike.

Across the street from the Visitors’ Centre and within easy walking distance from the new RV Park and Campground is where the Gold Pan will be relocated to, with an interpretive kiosk that will tell Quesnel’s history, including as the terminus of the rail line, and the importance of placer mining in our area. The Gold Pan will be located beside the railway’s Station House; a premium location for visitors to stop at and near where the Rocky Mountaineer passengers disembark.

These tourism-related investments are only a part of our comprehensive transition strategy, but they are a vital part of our attempt to attract visitors and turn them into residents and investors.