City of WL orders EVACUATION for 4005-4009 Frizzi Rd

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake: 

 Pursuant to the BC Emergency Program Act, an evacuation order has been issued for three industrial properties on Frizzi Road and the entire River Valley Trail due to immediate danger to life and safety caused by land erosion and flooding. 

Occupants are required to evacuate these properties immediately. 

The following addresses have been ordered to evacuate: 

4005 Frizzi Road 

4007 Frizzi Road 

4009 Frizzi Road 

The City of Williams Lake will continue to monitor the situation from its Emergency Operations Centre.

City of Williams Lake Evacuation Map
for 4005,4007,4009 Frizzi Road

City of Williams Lake Evacuation Order 
for 4005,4007,4009 Frizzi Road

Local Gov't Mtgs - Week of Nov 2-6

The following local governments' of the Cariboo-Chilcotin are meeting the week of Nov 2-6, as follows:

Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, Nov 3rd at 7pm via Zoom online meeting platform.  On the Agenda:

* Closed (In-Camera) Council Session -- Sections 90(1a,c,d,e,f,j,k,m,n) of the Community Charter [appointment, labour, security, land, law enforcement, information prohibited from public disclosure, negotiations, public may be excluded under another enactment (law) and consideration on whether the meeting should be closed under Sections 90.1 or 90.2 of the Community Charter]

* Delegations: Wells Community Facility Building committee update to Council & Wells-Barkerville Community Forest Board update and presentation to Council

* Proposed directional and restriction changes to Bowman Crescent

* Community Vision and Input survey Results

* Revised submission quotes for a District of Wells Asset Management Plan Program

* Proposed District of Wells Council Procedure Bylaw No. 180, 2020 (1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings)

View the full Agenda here

Quesnel:

1) Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, Nov 3rd at 9am in the Fraser Room (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Snow Removal Service Delivery Report

* Tax Shifting Scenarios

* Quesnel Regional Airport

View the full Agenda here

2) City Council - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, Nov 3rd at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* WildSafeBC Update

* Committee Reports

* Mayoral Appointments - Acting Mayor/Co-Chair, North Cariboo Joint Committee

* Disposition of Lands - Strategic Initiatives

* OCP & Zone Amendments Bylaws (420 Webster Rd)

* Development Permit - 490 Carson Avenue

* Community Forest Planning

* 2020 Remembrance Day Ceremonies

View the full Agenda here

3) Executive Committee - Regular Meeting on Wednesday, November 4th at 11am in the Fraser Room.  On the Agenda:

* Strategic Planning Agenda Items

* Pride Crosswalk Update

* Housing Action Plan

* Social Services/Food for the disadvantaged during the holidays – Councillor Roodenburg to Report

View the full Agenda here 

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 3rd at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Daphne Johnson, Executive Director - Williams Lake Hospice Society re 2020 Memory Tree Celebration

* Permissive Property Tax Bylaw Amendment - Removes Exemption (289 3rd Avenue North)

* UBCM 'Community Emergency Preparedness Fund' Structural Flood Mitigation Grant Application (WL River Valley

* Poll of Council - Letter of Support for Cariboo Heritage Park Society Grant Applications

* Rural Fringe Fire Protection Agreement 2021-2023 Extension

* Committee of the Whole Recommendations (3) for approval: Zoning Bylaw Update; New Child Care Spaces BC Fund Application and Public Safety Concern (Tyrell Giroux being released in the City of Williams Lake)

* In-Camera Resolution for Public Information -- COVID Relief for Williams Lake Regional Airport Terminal Commercial Tenants (Oct 2020 - March 2021)

View the full Agenda here

Oct 30th, 2020 BC #COVID-19 Numbers Update

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

“Today, we are reporting 272 new cases, including five epi-linked cases, for a total of 14,381 cases in British Columbia.

“There are 2,390 active cases of COVID-19 in the province, 6,003 people who are under active public health monitoring as a result of identified exposure to known cases and 11,670 people who tested positive have recovered.

“Currently, 78 individuals are hospitalized with COVID-19, 25 of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people with COVID-19 are recovering at home in self-isolation.

“Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 4,664 cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 8,219 in the Fraser Health region, 256 in the Island Health region, 741 in the Interior Health region, 412 in the Northern Health region and 89 cases of people who reside outside of Canada.

“There has been one new COVID-19 related death, for a total of 263 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There have been three new health-care facility outbreaks: at Hawthorne Seniors Care Community, CareLife Fleetwood and Queen’s Park Hospital unit 3C NMSK 2. The outbreaks at Fort Langley Seniors Community, The Village and Sunset Manor and Good Samaritan Victoria Heights have been declared over. In total, 24 long-term care or assisted-living facilities and two acute-care facilities have active outbreaks.

“There has been one new community outbreak at Suncor Firebag Oil Sands. There continue to be exposure events around the province. Public alerts and notifications are posted on the BC Centre for Disease Control’s (BCCDC) website and on all health authorities’ websites.

“As we all enjoy Halloween tomorrow, make it about the treats and not the tricks. Respect homes that are choosing not to participate this year and give everyone the space to stay safe, both indoors and outdoors.

“There are many ways to make fun memories this fall. This weekend is a great opportunity to be outside, enjoying the fall foliage and Halloween decorations. Guidelines on how to celebrate safely are available on the BCCDC website.

“Now is not the time for parties or large gatherings in our homes. Instead, let’s spend time with others in a safe way, outside or in venues that have COVID-19 safety plans in place.

“The provincial health officer order limiting the number of people who can visit our home is in effect and surveillance will be increased for the weekend ahead.

“Let’s make this weekend a safe and fun experience by keeping our groups small and by practising our COVID-19 sense.”

Learn More:

BCCDC’s safer celebrations guidance: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/social-interactions/safer-celebrations

To learn more about the October 5 modelling presentation, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/COVID19_Going_Forward_Oct_2020.pdf

Guidance for Halloween during COVID-19: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/social-interactions/halloween

To find the provincial health officer’s orders, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

To see a map of COVID-19 cases by local health area, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/data

If you are experiencing symptoms, find a collection centre near you to get tested: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/testing

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

For a listing of the community exposure events, go to:

BCCDC (flights, work sites, etc): http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/public-exposures
Fraser Health: fraserhealth.ca/covid19exposure
Interior Health: https://news.interiorhealth.ca/news/public-exposures/
Island Health: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/covid-19/outbreaks-and-exposures
Northern Health: https://www.northernhealth.ca/health-topics/outbreaks-and-exposures
Vancouver Coastal: http://www.vch.ca/covid-19/public-exposures

For the latest medical updates, including case counts, prevention, risks and testing, visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/

Or follow @CDCofBC on Twitter.

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

DON'T pump excess water into #CaribooRD Sewer Systems

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

Oct 29th, 2020 BC #COVID-19 Numbers Update

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

“Today, we are reporting 234 new cases, including four epi-linked cases, for a total of 14,109 cases in British Columbia.

“There are 2,344 active cases of COVID-19 in the province, 5,714 people who are under active public health monitoring as a result of identified exposure to known cases and 11,448 people who tested positive have recovered.

“Currently, 86 individuals are hospitalized with COVID-19, 24 of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people are recovering at home in self-isolation.

“Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 4,588 cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 8,036 in the Fraser Health region, 256 in the Island Health region, 734 in the Interior Health region, 406 in the Northern Health region and 89 cases of people who reside outside of Canada.

“There has been one new COVID-19 related death, for a total of 262 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There have been five new health-care facility outbreaks: The Gateway Assisted Living for Seniors, Mayfair Terrace Retirement Residence, Lakeview Care Centre, Louis Brier Home and Hospital, and Yaletown House. The outbreak at Zion Park Manor has been declared over. In total, 25 long-term care or assisted-living facilities and one acute-care facility have active outbreaks.

“There have been no new community outbreaks. There continue to be exposure events around the province. Public alerts and notifications are posted on the BC Centre for Disease Control’s (BCCDC) website and on all health authorities’ websites.

“Fall is a time when many holidays and celebrations occur, whether that is Halloween, Diwali or Remembrance Day. It is a time of cooler weather and increased respiratory illness. This year, we also face the added challenge of COVID-19.

“Many of the new cases we have today are directly linked to gatherings, in our homes and elsewhere, that are now resulting in community transmission of COVID-19 in communities across the province. 

“This Halloween weekend, we need to celebrate in new ways. We need to keep our groups small – in our homes and on the streets.

“Trick-or-treaters are reminded to give others the space to stay safe and to respect those homes that are choosing not to participate this year. And we remind everyone that there is a provincial health officer’s order limiting the number of people who can be in your home to your household, plus no more than six.

“Despite the best of intentions to maintain our distance and use the layers of protection when going to someone’s home, it can be hard to keep up the precautions when we are talking, eating and drinking together indoors.

“Rather, if you are wanting to spend time with a small group of friends, choose a COVID-19 safe space – either outside or a location that has a comprehensive COVID-19 safety plan.

“Let’s protect our loved ones, our Elders and our communities and show them we care by staying small – this weekend and every weekend this winter.”

Learn More:

BCCDC’s safer celebrations guidance: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/social-interactions/safer-celebrations

To learn more about the Oct. 5 modelling presentation, visit:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/COVID19_Going_Forward_Oct_2020.pdf

Guidance for Halloween during COVID-19: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/social-interactions/halloween

To find the provincial health officer's orders, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

To see a map of COVID-19 cases by local health area, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/data

If you are experiencing symptoms, find a collection centre near you to get tested: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/testing

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

For a listing of the community exposure events, visit:

BCCDC (flights, work sites, etc.): http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/public-exposures
Fraser Health: fraserhealth.ca/covid19exposure
Interior Health: https://news.interiorhealth.ca/news/public-exposures/
Island Health: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/covid-19/outbreaks-and-exposures
Northern Health: https://www.northernhealth.ca/health-topics/outbreaks-and-exposures
Vancouver Coastal: http://www.vch.ca/covid-19/public-exposures

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

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

Updates on Surgical Procedures and Contact Tracing Staff numbers here 

City of Williams Lake Urges Community Input on Childcare Facility

 Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake: 

At the Committee of Whole Council Meeting on October 27, 2020, Council considered the concept and budget for a draft application to the Province’s New Spaces Fund, which provides up to $3 million in funding at $40,000 per childcare space. 

A successful application to this fund would secure close to $3 million in capital funds to build a 72-space facility that would serve children in the 6-12-year age group as a before and after school care site. One of the recommendations in the 2020 Williams Lake Child Care Needs Assessment and Action Plan was that the City consider a before and after school care facility to help address the demand for childcare. Staff qualifications for this type of facility differ from the infant and toddler spots that require certified Early Childhood Educators, a skill set that is in short supply not only in Williams Lake but around the province. 

For the initial feasibility stage, the conceptual plan and budget were completed with the assistance of Zirnhelt Timber Frame’s Sam Zirnhelt, who has successfully worked on childcare proposals and has completed project builds with funding from the New Spaces Fund. Analysis included assumptions with regard to the community contribution to the project, specifically the in-kind value of land for the building site. 

The proposed budget utilizes the entire fund that is available for a centre with 72 spaces, equating to $2.88 million. This includes furnishings, appliances, and equipment. The analysis also found the operation of the proposed childcare centre to be feasible at near capacity enrollment. “The question that we wanted to answer was what could we actually do with $3 million,” stated City of Williams Lake Economic Development Officer Beth Veenkamp. 

“As a community with limited capacity in our non-profit sector we find ourselves in a position where the important planning and analysis part of considering a capital project isn’t there. It sounds great to say there is $3 million available, but what does that mean and what could a community group actually achieve with that amount of money?” The analysis focused on a portion of a City-owned property that is essentially deemed to be shovel-ready. 

The building was designed to fit in the parking lot spaces between the Williams Lake Seniors’ Activity Centre and the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex (CMRC) parking lot. The analysis found that there would be a reduction of approximately ten parking spaces for the CMRC. It also found that 15 spaces lost at the Seniors’ Activity Centre could be addressed by reconfiguring the current parking layout. After reviewing the analysis, Council resolved to engage with the community on the merits of putting forward an application to the fund. 

It also directed staff to identify other properties as potential building sites, and consult with the Williams Lake Seniors’ Activity Centre, the Williams Lake Farmers’ Market, and community residents on the presented design. Presentations to both the School District and the Cariboo Regional District were also recommended. 

 “We are looking forward to sharing the results of this work with the community, and evaluating the merits of putting forward an application to the BC New Spaces Fund in a future intake,” said Veenkamp. “As a community we need to decide if this kind of project is the right solution for Williams Lake and the childcare demand that exists.” 

Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb stated, “the City is attempting to be part of the solution to our childcare crisis by providing property for a facility. We look forward to working with the community to determine what will serve the needs of Williams Lake families, and how a before and after school facility could best be operated.” 

 Interested community groups from Williams Lake and the Cariboo region are urged to contact the City’s Economic Development Office for more information on the design. 

“This work was undertaken with a view to move from theoretical to conceptual so that groups can better understand what $3 million could do for a community,” continued Veenkamp. “If this design concept works for another municipality or school district, we are happy to share our findings. We are going to need collaboration and cooperation to solve the childcare crisis that we are facing.”

Quesnel Council Highlights - Oct 27th mtg

 Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Presentation – Royal Canadian Legion Branch #94 (Quesnel) Jim Spencer, President, and Ian Campbell, Service Officer, from the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #94 (Quesnel) presented Mayor Bob Simpson with the first poppy to draw awareness for this year’s fundraising poppy campaign. The Legion will still be carrying out the poppy campaign around the community.

Delegation – Quesnel Investment Corporation – Business Model and Transfer of Tenure (Forest Licence) Representatives from the Quesnel Investment Corporation (“QIC”), Mike Jenks, President, George Paull, Operations Manager, and Walter Fookes, Forestry Superintendent, provided Council with the intended business model of the QIC mill, previously known as C & C Wood Products. In 2019, the Forest Amendment Act (Bill 22), requires forest companies to carry out public consultation with various stakeholders, including Local Governments, when the transferring of a tenure (Forest Licence) is being considered. QIC representatives advised the Non Replaceable Forest Licence #A79982, approximately 577,899 m3, and is intended to be used to keep the mill’s remanufacturing plant operational. QIC intends to liquidate the Westside Logging Ltd. equipment and instead use contract harvesting to feed the remanufacturing plant. QIC is presently in negotiations for the green round logs to be sawed at a local sawmill that will then be used at QIC’s remanufacturing plant. QIC’s intent is for any excess logs to be sold or traded in the local market. Log supply is critical to secure lumber inputs for the mill. Council being satisfied with the business model of the QIC mill, and QIC’s intent of public tenure, passed a resolution supporting the transfer of Non Replaceable Forest Licence #A79982 from C & C Wood Products Ltd. to the QIC that will be attached to QIC’s Bill 22 submission to the Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resources and Rural Development. For full details of this delegation’s presentation, please access the Council meeting videos at Quesnel Civicweb.

Grant Applications Council approved City staff to submit the following grant applications: Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program Grant Application RV Park and Campground - Construction of phase one of the Quesnel RV Park and Campground of approximately 13 RV/camp sites. Quesnel Bike Park and Rentals - New construction and re-development of the Bike Park behind the Quesnel and District Arts and Recreation Centre, as well as the purchase of a small rental bike fleet for all ages. Childcare BC New Spaces Fund Grant Application New Childcare Facility - Construct a childcare facility with capacity for 57 childcare spaces at 420 Webster Avenue. Northern Development Initiative Trust Grant Applications Explore Quesnel - Add new value to the Explore Cariboo website and enhance the region’s online presence. There would be three unique themed adventures with a paired social media campaign for each theme. Workforce Attraction Video Campaign - Creation of four short videos, each featuring a Quesnel resident in their work environment and enjoying a balanced lifestyle. Target residents from Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario, as per the 2020 Regional Labour Market Study. Building Façade Improvement - To enhance economic development by promoting private sector investment in business façade improvements. RV Park Development - Pleae see above. Quesnel Bike Park and Rentals - Please see above.

Comprehensive Fees Bylaw Update  Council approved the first three readings of the proposed City of Quesnel Comprehensive Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw 1897 and Fee/Charge Schedules (“Bylaw 1897”). The updated fees and charges are effective January 1, 2021 and are highlighted as follows: Water Utility Fees - 5% increase to utility rates is an extra $10.76 annually per household Sewer Utility Fees - 5% increase to utility rates is an extra $13.00 annually per household Landfill Fees To encourage waste reduction and recycling, the maximum free weight for residents will be lowered to 150 kgs per load. Increased mixed waste to $90 per tonne Increased demolition land clearing waste to $250 per tonne Increased Asbestos to $250 per tonne Added charge for commercial cardboard going through the landfill of $50 per tonne. Residents can continue to drop off cardboard for free at the recycling depot. RCMP Criminal Checks – increase of $5 per check Cemetery Rates – 10% increase for adult plots Airport Fees – 2% increase

Next Council Meeting 6:00 pm - November 3, 2020

Central Cariboo Joint Committee Highlights - Oct 28th mtg

Present: Councillors S. Boehm, I. Bonnell and J. Ryll (City of Williams Lake) and Directors S. Forseth, A. Delainey and M. LeBourdais (Cariboo Regional District)

Meeting called to order at 5:31pm by Councillor J. Ryll (Meeting Chair)

The Chair reminded Committee members that the meeting is taking place on the traditional territory of the Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) peoples ... and reminded Committee members about putting their cell phone in either vibrate mode or turn them off... 

Resolved -- That members of the public are not permitted to physically attend the October 28th, 2020 meeting of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As per Ministerial Order No. M192 from the Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, dated June 17, 2020, the Regional District cannot, at this time, ensure the safety of staff, Committee members, and members of the public in such circumstances. Despite this, for the purposes of Division 3 of Part 4 of the Community Charter, the meeting is not to be considered closed to the public. Openness, transparency, accessibility, and accountability, in respect of this meeting, will be achieved by the open publishing of the minutes.

Meeting Agenda approved

Minutes of the Joint Committee meeting held on September 16th, 2020 were received and adopted

Delegations: None

Business:

1) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society's 'Performances in the Park 2020 Final Report'

A report of the Society was presented to the Committee 

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved - That the Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society's ' Performances in the Park 2020 Final Report' be received for information

2) Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society's '2020 Arts & Culture Third Quarter Report'

A report of the Society was presented to the Committee 

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved - That the Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society's ' Performances in the Park 2020 Final Report' be received for information

3) Central Cariboo Arts and Culture 2021 Business and Financial Plans

A report of the CRD Manager of Community Services (D. Campbell) was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That it be recommended to the Regional Board:

That the agenda item summary from Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, Cariboo Regional District dated October 13, 2020 regarding the Central Cariboo Arts and Culture 2021 Business and Financial Plans be received, and the plans be endorsed as presented.

4) Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services 2021 Business, Financial and Capital Plans

A report of the CRD Manager of Community Services (D. Campbell) was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon

Resolved - That it be recommended to the Regional Board:

That the agenda item summery from Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, Cariboo Regional District dated October 13, 2020 regarding the Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services 2021 Business, Financial and Capital Plans be received, and the plans be endorsed as presented

5) City Parks with Potential for Cost-Sharing of Maintenance Costs with CRD (referred by Williams Lake City Council) 

A letter, along with a Williams Lake City Staff Report, from the City of Williams Lake was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved - That the letter from the City of Williams Lake dated October 21, 2020, together with the list of City parks facilities and services that could be jointly funded between the City of Williams Lake and Cariboo Regional District, be received and referred to the Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus for review/report back to Joint Committee 

6) Discussion Item from Director A. Delainey - Longevity of Community Events & Volunteerism

Director Delainey reported on this item

Discussion ensued thereon.... 

Resolved - That Staff develop a list of Community Events and report to Committee of the Whole (WL Council) and Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus (CRD) meetings and that the matter be further discussed at a future Joint Committee meeting

7) Discussion Item from the City of Williams Lake - Ice Arena Spectators & Face Mask Policy

The City of WL's Director of Community Services reported on this item

Discussion ensued thereon... 

No resolution resulted

8) Proposed 2021 Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting Schedule

A report of the CRD Deputy Corporate Officer was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved - That it be recommended to Regional Board/Williams Lake City Council:

That the agenda item summary from Lore Schick, Deputy Corporate Officer / Executive Assistant, Cariboo Regional District dated October 7, 2020 regarding the Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting schedule for 2021 be received; and further, the following 2021 meeting schedule for the Central Cariboo Joint Committee be endorsed, with meeting start times to be 5:30 PM

* January 27th

* February 24th

* March 24th

* April 28th 

* May 26th 

* June 23rd

* September 22nd

* October 27th

* November 24th

9) Action Page

Discussion ensued ... 

Resolved - Action Page received and Items #4 and 7 be removed 

The Committee adjourned at 7:20pm

Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus Highlights - Oct 28th mtg

Present:  Chair S. Forseth and Directors A. Delainey and M. LeBourdais

Meeting called to order at 3:02pm

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional territory of the Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) peoples and specifically of the Williams Lake First Nation and he reminded members to place their cell phones in vibrate mode or turn them off

Meeting Agenda approved as amended (Mt Polley Public Liaison Committee appointment, Dir Forseth and electronic online engagement)

Minutes of the Central Cariboo Rural Caucus meeting held September 16th, 2020 were received/adopted

Delegation: (3:30pm)

Representatives from Dawson Road Maintenance and BC Ministry of Transportation appeared before Caucus, via teleconference, to provide an update on road maintenance

A Question/Answer period ensued..

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

Business:

1) Referred Item from Central Cariboo Joint Committee - Proposed Contribution Agreement with Daybreak Rotary to Deliver the Stampede Parade

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved - Further discussion deferred to the November Rural Caucus meeting

2) Central Cariboo Visitors Information Centres' Contribution Agreement Renewal

A report from the Regional Economic/Community Development Officer was presented to Caucus

Discussion ensued thereon...

Resolved - That it be recommended to Regional Board:

"That the agenda item summary from Beth Holden, Regional Economic & Community Development Officer, dated October 22, 2020, regarding the Central Cariboo Visitor Information Centre Contribution Agreement renewal, be received. Further, that the agreement be renewed with the increased amounts including $5,000 to the Likely Visitor Info Centre, $5,000 to the Horsefly Visitor Info Centre, $3,000 to the 150 Mile Visitor Info Centre (Old School House), and $30,000 to the Williams Lake Tourism Discovery Centre, from the Central Cariboo Economic Development Budget for an additional three-year term, and that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the renewal agreement"

3) Mt Polley Public Liaison Committee Appointment - Dir. Forseth (Late Item)

The Chair reported on this item

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved - That the appointment of Director S. Forseth to the Mt Polley Public Liaison Committee be rescinded  

4) Electronic Public Engagement during COVID-19 Pandemic - Dir. Forseth (Late Item)

Discussion ensued

No resolution resulted

5) Action Page

The Action Page was presented

Discussion ensued thereon...

Resolved - Action Page received and Item #1 be deleted 

The Caucus adjourned at 4:26pm

Oct 28th, 2020 BC #COVID-19 Numbers Update

Joint Statement from BC's Provincial Health Officer/Deputy BC Minister of Health (Dr. Bonnie Henry/Stephen Brown):

“Today, we are reporting 287 new cases, including four epi-linked cases, for a total of 13,875 cases in British Columbia.

“There are 2,316 active cases of COVID-19 in the province, 5,358 people who are under active public health monitoring as a result of identified exposure to known cases, and 11,244 people who tested positive have recovered.

“Currently, 87 individuals are hospitalized with COVID-19, 25 of whom are in intensive care. The remaining people with COVID-19 are recovering at home in self-isolation.

“Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 4,545 cases of COVID-19 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, 7,863 in the Fraser Health region, 253 in the Island Health region, 727 in the Interior Health region, 399 in the Northern Health region and 88 cases of people who reside outside of Canada.

“There have been two new COVID-19 related deaths, for a total of 261 deaths in British Columbia. We offer our condolences to everyone who has lost their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“There has been a new health-care facility outbreak at PICS assisted-living facility. The outbreaks at Dr. Al Hogg Pavilion and at Delta Hospital have been declared over. In total, 21 long-term care or assisted-living facilities and one acute-care facility have active outbreaks.

“There continue to be exposure events around the province. Public alerts and notifications are posted on the BC Centre for Disease Control’s (BCCDC) website and on all health authorities’ websites.

“Our COVID-19 safety efforts start at home, and recently we have seen a number of new cases and clusters directly connected to social events in private homes. That is why there is now a provincial health officer order in place restricting the number of people who can safely be in our homes.

“The new order is about ensuring what happens in our homes is in step with what we are doing elsewhere. Just as we need to keep our groups to no more than six when we go to restaurants, we must also keep our groups small at home.

“We can still spend time with our friends and family, but right now we must all keep to our ‘safe six’ only or take our events outside, where it is far easier to maintain a safe physical distance.

“Let’s save the parties for when it is safe for everyone to celebrate. If you are planning a wedding in your home, make it your immediate family only and save the celebration for next year. If you are organizing a birthday party for your children, only invite those small number of friends from your close social circle, not the entire class or sports team. The things we do at parties and celebrations including talking, hugging and eating and drinking together indoors are much riskier than our normal school or work activities.

“And unlike our schools and workplaces, most homes do not have space for everyone to keep a safe distance from others, nor do our homes have the layers of protection – the physical barriers, one-way pathways and the use of masks – that are part of school and work COVID-19 safety plans.

“Now is the time for us to take a step back from our in-person social events and gatherings, and connect virtually instead. This will help to protect our loved ones, our seniors, Elders and our communities as we move forward.”

Learn More:

BCCDC’s safer celebrations guidance: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/social-interactions/safer-celebrations

To learn more about the Oct. 5 modelling presentation, visit:
https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/COVID19_Going_Forward_Oct_2020.pdf

Guidance for Halloween during COVID-19: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/social-interactions/halloween

To find the provincial health officer's orders, visit:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/covid-19-novel-coronavirus

To see a map of COVID-19 cases by local health area, visit:
http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/data

If you are experiencing symptoms, find a collection centre near you to get tested: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/testing

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

For a listing of the community exposure events, visit:

BCCDC (flights, work sites, etc.): http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/public-exposures
Fraser Health: fraserhealth.ca/covid19exposure
Interior Health: https://news.interiorhealth.ca/news/public-exposures/
Island Health: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/covid-19/outbreaks-and-exposures
Northern Health: https://www.northernhealth.ca/health-topics/outbreaks-and-exposures
Vancouver Coastal: http://www.vch.ca/covid-19/public-exposures

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

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

Supporting our own businesses and people

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Editor's Note -- this week's Quesnel City Council column is written by Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson.  He can be reached via email here

With the provincial election effectively over, the BC Government will be re-focusing its efforts on controlling the spread of the pandemic and assisting individuals, communities, and businesses to weather the socio-economic impacts of this ongoing public health emergency. But, we don’t need to be dependent on the Province to come to our aid, there’s a lot we can do collectively to take care of our own.

During the election period, the City of Quesnel and the Cariboo Regional District prepared grant applications to submit to the Community Economic Infrastructure Recovery Program, as did a number of our local First Nations’ governments and not for profit agencies. These COVID-related grant applications are due at the end of this month and a commitment has been made by the Province to vet the applications and commit the funds to the approved projects before the end of their fiscal year.

If we’re successful in obtaining these COVID-related grants we’ll be able to advance a number of our strategic initiatives and create both short and long term employment in Quesnel and our fringe areas. However, in addition to this hoped-for provincial support, we’ll continue to make strategic investments in our community with your tax dollars; proactively implementing our transition strategy, which predates this pandemic.

More COVID-related supports are also being made available for businesses from both the Provincial and Federal governments. City staff will continue to work with our business organizations and Community Futures to ensure that all our local businesses are aware of these supports and able to access them as needed. However, the best, most consistent support we can all provide to our businesses is to shop local, especially as we enter what is traditionally one of the highest consumer spending periods of the year.

Our own consumer spending is one of the most powerful socio-economic tools we have to ensure we have a robust and diverse local economy that supports as many local jobs as possible. If our local stores don’t have what you’re looking for, ask, or choose alternate/substitute products that they can get for you. Every dollar we spend in our own community is a contribution towards our community’s long-term sustainability and resiliency.

Our own dollars are also critically important when it comes to supporting families and individuals in need in our community too. While we’ll continue to ensure that our not-for-profit support agencies are kept informed of any COVID-related grants and programs, local donations will continue to be the mainstay for most of these organizations.

Many social service support organizations are in need of warm winter clothing for the individuals and families they serve. Each of these organizations have specific needs and ways they collect and distribute clothing, please view the list for more information on how to get new and used clothing to these organizations in the most effective way.

Direct cash donations are critically important for most of our local not for profit groups, as cash gives them the most flexibility to address the needs of their clients. Rather than donating to global or national organizations, please consider becoming a consistent supporter of one of our local organizations – you’ll be directly helping people in your community to live more sustainable and resilient lives.

We have the ability to shape our own future and ensure our community and local households and businesses remain resilient during this challenging time simply by making sure as many of our dollars as possible remain in our local economy.