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

The following local governments' of the Cariboo-Chilcotin are meeting next week (May 2-6, 2022), as follows:

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

* Unfinished Business: Barkerville Gold Mines zoning application

* Gas Tax Fund - future uses

View the full Agenda here

Quesnel - Meetings, as noted below, all on Tuesday, May 3rd in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  

1) Special Closed (In-Camera) Quesnel Council Meeting at 5pm - Section 90(2b - confidential negotiations between governments and a 3rd Party) of the Community Charter.  View the Closed Meeting Notice here

2) Public Hearing at 6pm -- OCP and Zoning amendments for property located at 668 Doherty Drive.  

View the full Public Hearing Agenda here

3) Regular Council, to follow adjournment of the Public Hearing.  On the Agenda:

* Verbal Report of Mayor Simpson re: Meetings with BC Attorney/Solicitor-Generals'

* 2021 SOFI/Statement of Financial Information Report - City of Quesnel

* Quesnel Fire Hall Renovation Project

* Fire Smart Month (May 2022) in the City of Quesnel

View the full Agenda here

Finally - local elected officials (Mayors, Councillors, Area Directors') are off next week (May 2-6) to attend the 2022 North Central Local Government Association (NCLGA) AGM/Convention being held in the City of Fort St John.  You can view what is occurring at this Convention here

There are a number of Cariboo-Chilcotin local elected officials up for election to the NCLGA Board for the 2022-23 term including Cariboo RD Area "D" Director Steve Forseth as President of NCLGA; City of Williams Lake Councillor Sheila Boehm for NCLGA 1st Vice President and finally Williams Lake Councillor Marnie Brenner as a NCLGA Director at Large (1 of 3).  Cariboo RD Area "E" Director Angie Delainey has already been re-appointed to the NCLGA Board for the 2022-23 term as the representative from the Cariboo RD Board.  All elected or appointed individuals to the NCLGA Board serve for a 1 year term.  There are a total of 14 people who can serve on the NCLGA Board (President, 1st and 2nd Vice Presidents', Past President, 3 Directors' at Large and 6 Regional Reps from the NCLGA Regional Districts' (6) as well as 1 rep. from the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality (Fort Nelson).  The Regional Reps also have an alternate rep appointed to attend NCLGA Board or Committee meetings, in their absence, if required... 

I will post daily reports from the 2022 NCLGA Convention.... and then a "Post Event" report upon my return from Fort St John 

~SF

Williams Lake Council Highlights - April 26th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake's 2021 Financial Statements and independent Auditor's Report showed positive signs for the municipality. 

During a presentation to Council, the independent auditor noted the City had $31.4 million of financial assets at the end of the year and $16.5million of liabilities with positive net financial assets of $14.9 million. 

The report also showed the City has reduced its long-term debt by $1 million to $7.4million, along with a total accumulated surplus of $124.5 million, up from $116.5million the previous year.

Speaking to the financial statements and auditor's report, Council noted its commitment to reducing long-term debt and improving the City's financial health.

Interior Health updates Council on drug crisis

Dr. Carol Fenton, Alison Houweling and Katie Matuschewski of Interior Health provided Council with an update on the current toxic drug crisis impacting the Cariboo region.

During its presentation, Interior Health noted the sharp increase in toxic drug deaths in the Cariboo Chilcotin from 15.5 per 100,000 people in 2016 to 34.4 per 100,00 people.

Dr. Fenton, Houweling and Matuschewski told Council why toxic drugs are a problem, outlined effective methods aimed at preventing overdose deaths and stressed the importance of the City's role in preventing overdose deaths.

Dr. Fenton also outlined several options for Council to consider moving forward in order to reduce the impacts of toxic drugs in the community, such as the potential for a safe consumption site, providing healthy coping outlets such as more recreational opportunities, promoting wider-spread naloxone training in schools and creating more supportive environments. 

Council approves request to move stop sign

A request from Williams Lake resident Arnie Zimmerman to relocate a stop sign in Williams Lake was approved by Council.

Council endorsed moving a stop sign from the low side of Terra Ridge and installing one on the top and bottom of Wotzke Drive and Terra Road in order to improve driver safety.

During his presentation Zimmerman, a Terra Ridge resident, said the current location of the stop sign poses challenges for motorists during the winter months.

In his letter to Council Zimmerman said there are 80 residential units at the Terra Ridge complex and 10 residences on Wotzke Drive, pointing to a lower volume of traffic on the latter roadway.

Council grants budget approval to 2022 asphalt rehabilitation project

A poll of Council conducted on April 12, 2022 on budget approval for the 2022 asphalt rehabilitation project at the adjusted budget price of $1,669,447 plus $285,000 for saddle replacement was ratified. The early budget approval for the project was requested to allow staff time to tender the project as soon as possible. 

Financial Plan Bylaw gets green light

Council approved its five-year 2022 to 2026 Financial Plan Bylaw.

The financial plan sets out the City's operating expenditures, amounts required for capital purchases, proposed funding sources and proposed transfers to or between funds.

The financial plan incorporates a 10 per cent residential tax rate reduction along with a zero per cent water and sewer rate change for 2022.

In the plan, the City's total budgeted revenue and expenditures equal $31,261,068.

Williams Lake Tax Rate Bylaw approved by Council

Council approved the 2022 Williams Lake Tax Rate Bylaw resulting in a 10 per cent residential tax rate reduction for 2022.

Council noted it has been working hard to find ways to lessen the impacts of sharp property tax assessments in the community for residential taxpayers, resulting in the reduction.

Residential taxes make up the largest portion of the City's tax load. In 2022 the tax load will be divided as follows: 44.1 per cent residential, 5.7 per cent utilities, 19.9 per cent industry-major, 4.3 per cent industry-light, 25.9 per cent business/other, and 0.1 per cent recreation/non-profit.

Outdoor patio licenses issued to pair of local businesses

Council approved two outdoor patio licenses Tuesday.

The first was a request from the Oliver Street Bar and Grill to continue an outdoor patio installed during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a separate application, Fox Mountain Brewing Co.'s request for an outdoor patio license from April through to October was also approved by Council.

Williams Lake Public Art Committee established

Council endorsed a memorandum of understanding between the City and the Downtown Williams Lake Business Improvement Association (DWLBIA) to establish a Williams Lake Public Art Committee. The committee will be administered by the DWLBIA for a three-year term effective 2022 through 2024. 

Council also approved an annual budget of $5,000 toward the program for a three-year term. The public art committee will create a fair and equal call for public art proposals to artists aimed at enhancing the City's public art collection.

Application for UBCM grant funding approved

Council supported an application to the Union of BC Municipalities Strengthening Communities' Services for project activities of $112,500. The fund will focus on providing support to the local CMHA for the continued operation of a BC Housing Temporary Warming Shelter.

New outdoor climbing wall location chosen

Council approved the installation of the Daybreak Rotary Club's climbing wall project in Boitanio Park. It also agreed to provide additional support for the project such as ongoing maintenance and upkeep of the structure.

Early budget approval granted for several items 

Early capital budget approval was granted for several items: HVAC Works Yard, crush gravel, single axle dump truck with combination box, wheel loader and cemetery irrigation upgrade projects.

Dry grad parade route approved 

Council approved the 2022 Graduation Parade route scheduled for June 11 at 5 pm. The route is scheduled to begin at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex and continue to the Stampede Grounds via Borland Street and Seventh Avenue. 

Province of BC strengthens Disaster Financial Assistance Program

Courtesy of the Province of BC:

Editor's Note -- this will be good news for BC Local Governments including those in the Cariboo-Chilcotin (District of Wells, City of Quesnel, City of Williams Lake, District of 100 Mile House, Cariboo Regional District)

Following the flooding in November 2021, the Province is making significant changes to ensure more people, communities and businesses can access and receive increased benefits from British Columbia’s Disaster Financial Assistance program.

The slate of immediate regulatory changes will allow the Province to provide up-front contributions toward community recovery projects, increase the Province’s contribution toward recovery projects, and expand eligibility to cover more people and small businesses, among other improved supports.

“The catastrophic flooding in November 2021 highlighted the limitations of our Disaster Financial Assistance program, and given the scale of the disaster, we need to make changes quickly,” said the Hon. Mike Farnworth, BC's Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “These changes will help ensure people, First Nations and local governments impacted by severe flooding aren’t facing insurmountable costs, and will improve the program so we can respond faster next time and provide more support to those impacted.”

Disaster Financial Assistance exists to help communities recover from catastrophic emergencies. It is also available to private sector applicants (homeowners, residential tenants, business owners, farm owners and charitable organizations) that were unable to obtain insurance to cover disaster-related losses. It provides compensation for essential uninsurable losses for eligible disasters.

The regulation changes will make more farm operators, rental unit owners and small businesses eligible for Disaster Financial Assistance by adjusting the qualification criteria. Starting Thursday, April 28, 2022, the Province will also re-open applications to the program until July 27, 2022, to give businesses the opportunity to apply for assistance under the new eligibility requirements.

The changes to the Disaster Financial Assistance program include:

Increasing provincial contributions to local infrastructure recovery

To alleviate financial pressures of rebuilding critical infrastructure on public-sector applicants, including local governments, Emergency Management BC is modifying the cost-sharing formula so the provincial contribution increases as the cost of the project goes up. The local authority’s contribution will be a minimum of 5% to a maximum of 10% of the total project cost, based on a per-capita cost-share model

Currently, local authorities are required to fund 20% of eligible project costs and the Province pays the remaining 80%. This is a significant affordability challenge for many communities and can prevent them from investing in timely and critical recovery.

Up-front cash flow to communities from the Province

To help communities begin critical infrastructure recovery projects faster, Emergency Management BC will now provide a portion of a project’s estimated costs up-front. Currently, local authorities must complete their project before submitting to the Province for reimbursement, which has created challenges with necessary cash flow. The change will help to accelerate local recovery planning.

Expanding eligibility based on minimum income

To further expand eligibility, the new regulations include a new requirement that a small business must have at least $10,000 per year in revenue to qualify. This aligns with the thresholds of six other provinces’ Disaster Financial Assistance Programs.

Currently, the income from a small business must be the owner’s major source of income, which has been interpreted as at least 50% of their income. Many rental unit owners are not eligible for Disaster Financial Assistance because their rental income does not meet this threshold.

Increasing maximum annual revenue for small businesses

Raising the maximum annual revenue threshold for all small businesses from $1 million to $2 million. This will allow more businesses to qualify for Disaster Financial Assistance.

Eligibility for corporation-owned properties

For homes owned by corporations, the new changes will allow people to apply for Disaster Financial Assistance if they have a defined connection to the corporation and use the home as a primary residence, which is not uncommon in the farming sector. This will address a gap in the current regulation, which does not allow people to apply for DFA when their home is held in the name of a corporation. 

Currently, Disaster Financial Assistance only applies to an applicant’s primary residence. In situations where a corporation owns a home, such as through a farm or other small business, the corporation is not able to claim a homeowner grant and is therefore ineligible for Disaster Financial Assistance.

Further changes to Disaster Financial Assistance are expected as part of the modernization of the Emergency Program Act.

Preliminary response and recovery costs associated with the atmospheric river event are estimated at more than $4 billion. This estimate will continue to be refined as local government recovery plans are received and provincial recovery initiatives, such as Highway Reinstatement Program and debris removal work continues. The Province anticipates significant federal support for these costs through Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) and has put in an advance payment request based on estimated costs to date. British Columbia has five years from the federal order in council, which confirmed eligibility of the event for DFAA, to submit a final claim that will confirm the actual of federal cost sharing received based on a review of costs submitted.

Quick Facts:

• Emergency Management BC has received more than 2,200 applications for Disaster Financial Assistance from individuals, small businesses, farms, charitable organizations and local governments affected by the November 2021 flooding. 
• More than $5.3 million has been paid to applicants to date.

Learn More:

Disaster Financial Assistance: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/preparedbc/evacuation-recovery/disaster-financial-assistance

Xat'sull FN announces new Gas Station Development Project

Courtesy of Xatsull FN:

Xatśūll First Nation is pleased to announce a new $3.8 million project that will see the development of a gas station, convenience store, quick-serve restaurant and a seasonal museum with Xatśūll and Secwépemc artifacts that will include a tourism hub hosted by local ambassadors at the site of the Emporium. 

“Our members have wanted this to come to fruition for over 20 years,” says Kúkpi7 (Chief) Sheri Sellars. “I’m ecstatic that the project is finally able to go ahead. It’s taken a lot of hard work and dedication by the Xatśūll Development Corporation, in collaboration with Xatśūll, and persistence from our members to make this a reality.” 

Renovations and expansion of the Emporium, which is located about 30 km north of Williams Lake on Highway 97, will commence on May 2, 2022 and the project is expected to take around a year to complete if there are no delays. 

The site was originally developed in 1970 and has previously served as a gas station and restaurant. Most recently, it’s been used by Xatśūll as a training centre for culinary arts, trail builders and other miscellaneous functions. “The Emporium sits at the heart of nine biking and hiking trails that were added in 2016 and is located just above the Xatśūll Heritage Village. The site will provide ample of reason for people to stop,” says Sellars. “

The proposed project, which will incorporate the Emporium, is the right approach as it holds significant social, historical and cultural value; there is no appetite to remove the existing building and replace it.” Xatśūll is happy to announce that electric charging stations will be available for those who’ve made the switch from gas or diesel. Xatśūll is partnering with Petro-Canada for gas. This project as a whole is expected to bring a minimum of nine full-time jobs and seven part-time jobs. “One of the big objectives for us has been to bring more employment opportunities to the community, especially closer to home. 

This project will offer a mix of entry-level jobs and senior positions that’ll suit a variety of experience and skill levels.” In the short term, a Residential Building Maintenance Worker Trader Sampler Program will offer training to eight Indigenous people in a variety of skills such as drywall, plumbing, electrical, carpentry and more. The program will run from May 2, 2022 to July 22, 2022 in collaboration between Xatśūll First Nation, the Xatśūll Development Corporation (XDC), Cariboo Chilcotin Aboriginal Training Employment Centre (CCATEC) and Thompson Rivers University (TRU). 

“In addition to building long-term employment through the development project, developing these crucial construction skills locally will help us tremendously in future projects and provides more career opportunities for local Indigenous people. We’re really thankful for the support and collaboration with CCATEC and TRU as skill development opportunities like this wouldn’t be possible without them.” 

The development project will be managed by Kevin Potter, of Capital Asset Management Solutions, the construction will be managed by Xatśūll member and owner of R&B Construction Gary Sellars and Steven Parker, Xatśūll’s Manager of Economic Development, will oversee the Residential Building Maintenance Worker Trader Sampler Program. “As you can see there are a lot of moving parts to this project and we’re really happy with all the people who are stepping forward and lending their expertise to it,” says Sellars. “Our belief in the viability and benefits of this project have helped us make this project a reality. We’re really happy we’ve been able to bring it to this point and are looking forward to opening day. I’d like to thank Xatśūll members, staff, Chief and Council and all the other organizations and people who’ve helped us make this project a reality,” says XDC Chief Executive Officer Howard Campbell.

Williams Lake Boil Water Advisory for Golf Course, Westridge, and Hodgson Road Lifted

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake, in conjunction with Interior Health, is lifting a precautionary boil water advisory for Zone 2 of the City’s west side water distribution system.

The boil water advisory was originally issued on April 21, 2022 and affected the entire Westridge and golf course subdivisions, properties on Hodgson Road from Terra Ridge to Dog Creek Road, Deer Park Terrace, the Terra Ridge strata complex and the Pioneer Complex, along with the Lutheran Church on Hodgson Road. Residents on Woodland Drive connected to City water were also impacted.

The boil water advisory – issued out of an abundance of caution after an upstream water main cracked during replacement work on Hodgson Road required depressurization of the local area - is being rescinded after reviewing internal and external potability samples.

“The City appreciates our residents’ patience during this event,” said Pat Mahood, Manager of Public Works. “We apologize for the delay in lifting this advisory, which was due to shipping samples and laboratory timing.”

The work of replacing 200 metres of water main is almost complete with only the reconnection of one fire hydrant and backfilling still underway. The work is expected to take place the week of May 2, 2022, and shut down of service for the work is expected to be localized to the Hodgson Road area and be completed in less than one day.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact the City of Williams Lake’s Municipal Services Department at 250-392-1785 or at 250-392-1784. Residents can also contact an Interior Health Drinking Water Protection Officer at 250-851-7340, option 1, with any concerns.

Williams Lake Council approves 2022 Budget/2022-26 Five Year Financial Plan

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

City of Williams Lake Council approved the 2022-2026 Financial Plan Bylaw at its Regular Meeting Tuesday, April 26 outlining operating expenses, proposed funding sources and anticipated revenues for capital and operational programs over the next five years.

Councillor Scott Nelson, Chair of the Finance Committee, said the plan incorporates a 10 per cent residential tax rate reduction along with a zero per cent water and sewer rate charge for 2022.

“Council and staff recognized the significant jump in property assessments and knew we had to decrease the impact on our taxpayers,” Nelson said. “We saw a large increase in property assessments this year and one of our main goals was to balance that out with the tax rate reduction.”

The City will collect an anticipated $15,786,764 in residential property taxes in 2022, making up the majority of its revenue for the year. Both the total budgeted revenue and expenditures have been balanced.

Also during Tuesday night’s meeting, the City received its annual external auditor’s report based on its 2021 Financial Statements, which noted positive financial growth for the municipality.

Of note, in 2021, the City collected $37 million in revenues. The annual expenditures were $29 million, ending the fiscal year with a surplus of $7.8 million.

At year end, the City had $31.4 million in financial assets and $16.5 million in liabilities with positive net financial assets of $14.9 million. The report also showed the City has reduced its long-term debt by $1 million to $7.4 million, along with an accumulated surplus of $124.5 million, up from $116.5 million the previous year.

Speaking to the auditor’s report, Council noted its commitment to reducing long-term debt and improving the City’s financial health.

“I’m happy with how the City is doing financially and pleased with the auditor’s report,” said Chief Financial Officer Vitali Kozubenko. “We are prepared for the road forward.”

Quesnel Council Highlights - April 26th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Delegation - KPMG Enterprise

KPMG Partner Naphtali provided the Financial Sustainability & Audit Committee and, Council with an overview of the 2021 Audit of City Financial records for the year ending December 31, 2021, which included the Auditor Report, Consolidated Financial Statements and Surplus and Reserves.

The City received a clean Auditor Report and, Council approved the April 26, 2022 Financial Sustainability and Audit Committee meeting recommendation approving the City of Quesnel 2021 Financial Statements.

2024 BC Winter Games Committee - President & Vice President

Mayor Simpson introduced Brian Balkwill, President and Brenda Beatty, Vice President of the 2024 BC Winter Games Committee.  Next steps will include ratification of the appointment by co-host Lhtako Dene Nation and recruitment of 14 Committee Directors.

Development Services Update

• 668 Doherty Drive Official Community Plan and Zoning Amendment Proposal - At the March 15th Council meeting, Council required the proponents of the development OCP/Rz2021-36 to hold a public information session on their proposed development, prior to the May 3rd Public Hearing.  Notices were issued to residents and property owners within 100m of the property, posted in the newspaper and posted on the subject building on the development notice sign. The information session was held at City Hall on April 19, 2022.
• Davie Street and North Fraser Drive Landing Revitalization Projects - In February staff reported that L&M were the success consultants commissioned to lead the Davie Street and North Fraser Drive Landing Revitalization Projects.  Through February and March, the consultants completed initial consultation including engaging with stakeholders, utilizing Let’s Connect Quesnel, and a resident survey.  Please see the following links for more information on these initiatives and to identify ways to participate in this community development exercise.
  • North Fraser Drive Landing Revitalization Plan; and
  • Davie Street Revitalization Plan

City of Quesnel Strategic Plan (2022-2026)

Council approved the 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, which outlined the following areas; Housing Initiatives, Community Development, Community Health & Safety, Environmental Leadership, Governance, Infrastructure Reinvestment, Economic Development & Transition Planning, Forestry Initiatives.

Grant Update

Council approved application to Northern Development Initiative Trust Capital Investment Analysis grant stream for a feasibility study to purchase and renovate a building for a downtown art gallery and dedicated mixed-media makerspace studio.

Correspondence

Council approved the following:

• Billy Barker Days Gold Dust Mall - The Quesnel Downtown Association requested closure of Reid Street from Carson Street to St. Laurent Avenue, leaving access to the highway open on Barlow Avenue.  The closure will start at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 14 and run through 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 17.
• A letter of support for the District of Wells application to Northern Development Initiative Trust Special Circumstances grant for $20,000 to secure a consultant to prepare a Highway 26 power line options report.

Bylaws

• 1924 - City of Quesnel Financial Plan Bylaw No. 1924 of 2022 (2022-2026) - First, Second and Third Readings
• 1925 - City of Quesnel Tax Rates Bylaw No. 1925 of 2022 - First, Second and Third Readings

More changes coming to the Quesnel Riverfront Trail

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

Several people have noted that things seem to be changing along the Quesnel River portion of the Riverfront Trail; most notably, the City’s fire trucks are parked in the old public works facility, there’s been land clearing on the former Utilities site, and the “yellow dozer” has been removed. However, none of these changes should come as a surprise to the public, as they’ve been communicated numerous times and are part of our overall community renewal strategy.

Using the old Public Works Yard as a location for the City’s #1 Firehall is simply a temporary measure while that firehall gets a complete upgrade. This $4 million project is now underway and will be completed by 2023, at which time the old Public Works Yard will be vacated and we can start to plan for its remediation as per our Waterfront Plan.

The Waterfront Plan was developed with significant input from the public and the land clearing at the old Utilities Yard and the removal of the “yellow dozer” on the downstream side of the Johnston Bridge along the Quesnel River are an outcome of that plan. This entire area will now be converted into an on-river RV Park and Campground this spring and summer. Again, this is a project that’s funded by grants from the provincial and federal governments and Northern Development Trust.

This summer will also see more changes along the Riverfront Trail, all in alignment with our Waterfront Plan. In particular, the Fraser River portion of the Trail will see significant upgrades; including lighting, changes to the Front Street entrance to the Walking Bridge, new benches, and new signage. We’d hoped this particular project would have been more advanced by this time, but there have been some due diligence delays as we work on getting the appropriate approvals from other agencies, particularly First Nations approvals based on a robust archeological assessment. 

In fact, the entire Riverfront Trail will see all of its signage refreshed this year. The current interpretative signage is dated, both physically and socially (i.e. inappropriate and inaccurate) and will be replaced with upgraded signs. So, please don’t be surprised when the current signage is removed to make way for the new signs. 

Over the past few years, we’ve also been working collaboratively with the Lhtako Dene Nation to restore their history to the riverfronts in the City. The Lhtako Dene lived at the confluence of the Fraser and Quesnel Rivers and Baker Creek for millennia prior to “discovery” and yet their rich history is notably missing from what is unquestionably their traditional territory. Instead, only the old artifacts of settlement are represented along the Riverfront Trail, some of which are not even a part of the history of our community (like the Steam Shovel, which is part of Likely's history). 

Next month, we’re hoping to put the finishing touches on and secure the finances for a major First Nations cultural project along the Fraser portion of the Riverfront Trail. This project has been developed in full consultation with Lhtako Elders, Chief and Council and would see Lhtako and the City work together to restore some measure of the rich history of the Southern Dakelh to the riverfronts that they lived on for millennia and that is still their traditional territory to this day.

Stay tuned, more exciting changes are coming to the City’s riverfronts as we continue to implement our Waterfront Plan.

Cariboo RD Agricultural Development Plan Survey Launch

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

The development of an agricultural plan for the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) is closer to becoming a reality, with a consultant team hired and the first round of community engagement about to take place. The CRD Agricultural Area Plan is funded in part by the Local Government Partnership Program, with funding provided by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and the Government of British Columbia through programs delivered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation of B.C.

A team of consultants, led by Upland Agricultural Consulting, has been retained to assist in drafting the plan. Over the course of the year, there will be extensive consultation with the community and stakeholders. The round of engagement includes interviews and a survey launch. Later this spring and summer there will be a virtual Town Hall event and in-person meetings with farmers and ranchers.

The Plan will encompass the entire CRD area, and will build on the Agricultural Land Use Inventory project that was conducted by the BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food, the BC Climate Change Adaptation Program, the SPROUT Kitchen food hub and other key agri-food projects completed in recent years in the region.

“So much great work has been done to date by local organizations to explore opportunities for increasing the strength and viability of the Cariboo agri-food sector. The CRD Agricultural Area Plan will build on this strong base to achieve the goals of encouraging, protecting, and celebrating agriculture in the region. Establishing key priority areas and recommended actions will be an important outcome of this process” says CRD Vice Chair and Electoral Area C Director John Massier. “We are encouraged to see the process moving forward and the survey is an important first step in getting input from area residents,” he added.
Recommendations from the Plan will be translated into implementable actions along with a defined funding strategy to ensure they are achieved.

The project webpage is: https://www.cariboord.ca/en/business-and-development/agricultural-area-plan.aspx

Residents with questions can contact:

Shivani Sajwan

Planning Officer II

Cariboo Regional District
250-392-3351
ssajwan@cariboord.ca

2022 National Volunteer Week

From April 24-30, 2022 -- it's National Volunteer Week in Canada.  This year's theme is Empathy in Action

The background to this week is here while Volunteer Canada talks more about this week here.  Finally --the Prime Minister of Canada spoke to National Volunteer Week - click here  

Here in the Cariboo-Chilcotin -- many things occur throughout the year thanks to volunteers, where community events or during emergencies

In Area "D" of the Cariboo Regional District -- the following community groups and their activities depend entirely on volunteers:

* Wildwood Community/Recreation Association

* Tyee Lake Community Association

* McLeese Recreation Commission

* McLeese Lake Volunteer Fire Department Society

Whether in incorporated/unincorporated communities in the Cariboo-Chilcotin Region -- volunteers and their empathy for where they live is greatly appreciated and honoured as with these cherished volunteers, our rural communities would not be the vibrant places they are (and mentioned as much yesterday via my social media channels)...

~SF

Local Gov't Mtgs - Week of April 25-29, 2022

The following local governments/Boards' of Education of the Cariboo-Chilcotin are holding meetings during the week of April 25-29, 2022, as follows:

Wells - Special Closed (In-Camera) Council Meeting on Thursday, April 28th at 9am as per Sections 90(1a,c,d,j,k,l - appointment, labour, security of property of the municipality, information prohibited from public disclosure and meeting with municipal officers' in preparation of an annual report) of the Community Charter - meeting notice here

Quesnel - Meetings as noted below:

a) Special Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee Meeting to be held on Tuesday, April 26th at 4:30pm in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda

* Presentation of 2021 Audited Financial Statements and 2021 Audit Report - City of Quesnel

View the full Agenda here

b) Municipal Council meeting to be held on Tuesday, April 26th at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: KPMG re: 2021 Audited Financial Statements/Audit Report for the City of Quesnel

* Committee Reports

* 2024 BC Winter Games/Appointment of President/Vice President of local host Society

* 5 Year Financial Plan/2022 Tax Rate Bylaws - Consideration of 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings

* Summary of Information Session for 668 Doherty Drive development proposal

* Revitalization Consultation Summaries for Davie Street and North Fraser Drive Landing

* Strategic Plan (2022-2026)

* Northern Development Initiative Trust Capital Investment Analysis - Downtown Art Gallery and Makerspace 

View the full Agenda here

c) Special Closed (In-Camera) Quesnel Council Meeting - to follow the regular, Open Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 26th as per Section 90(1e, g - land and potential/actual litigation) of the Community Charter.  View the closed meeting notice here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, April 26th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  Meeting to be livestreamed via YouTube - click here.  On the Agenda:

* Delegations -- 

a) 2021 Audited Financial Statements & Auditor's Report

b) Dr. Carol Fenton, Alison Houweling and Katie Matuschewski, Interior Health re Update on Current Drug Crisis

c) Arnie Zimmerman re Relocation of Stop Sign from Terra Ridge to Wotzke Drive

 

* Poll of Council - Asphalt Rehabilitation 2022 - Budget Adjustment

* 2022 Budget and Tax Rates Bylaws - for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings

* Development Variance Permit Approval - DVP #01-2022 - Randy Tallen - 909 Proctor Street 

* Zoning Bylaw Amendment - Trevor and Joelle Pitre (104 Paxton Rd)

* Oliver Street Bar and Grill - Application for Outdoor Patio License

* Fox Mountain Brewing Company Ltd. - Application for a New Permanent Patio

* New City of Williams Lake Sign Bylaw 2360 and Amendment Bylaws

* Memorandum of Understanding - Williams Lake Public Art Committee

* UBCM Strengthening Communities Services Application

* Disc Golf Course at Boitanio Park Update

* City Parks and Green Space Bookings

* 3 Recommendations from Committee of the Whole for endorsement

* Letter from Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District re: copy of letter to Interior health re: Capital Funding Requests for the 2022/2023 Fiscal Year 

* Resolution from previous Closed Council Meeting re: City of Williams Lake bid for former Poplar Glade school site

View the full Agenda here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Regular Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, April 26th at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue North, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Report from SD27 Superintendent C. Van der Mark

* Presentation of 2022/23 Budget

* Report/Recommendations from Board Committees'

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District -- Regular Board Meeting to be held on Friday, April 29th at 9:30am in the Cariboo Regional District Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: PMT Chartered Professional Accountants LLP re: 2021 CCRHD Audited Financial Statements

* Hospital Consent Calendar

* Healthcare Recruitment Report from Quesnel - Quarter 1 2022

* Closed Board Session -- Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter

Cariboo Regional District  -- Regular Board Meeting to be held following recess of the CCRHD Board Meeting on Friday, April 29th in the Cariboo Regional District Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations (2) -- Presentation of South Cariboo Housing Needs Assessment and presentation of 2021 Audited Financial Statements

* Land Use Matters

* Receive South Cariboo Housing Needs Assessment

* Consider requests for Grant For Assistance (Year Round Intake) for Areas B/D (Dirs. Bachmeier/Forseth)

* Appointment of Chief/Deputy Chief Election Officers' for 2022 Local General Election - Cariboo RD

* Consent Calendar

* Recommendations from Committees/Commissions of the Regional District

* Request from Dir. Richmond (Area G) re: Appreciation Dinner for 108 Greenbelt Commission and 10 Year Anniversary recognition of Area G APC Member

* Request for COVID-19 Safe Restart Funds from Directors Sjostrom, LeBourdais (Areas A/F)

* Request from Dir. Forseth re: Access to Area "D" Director Initiative Fund to attend April 28th Social Media Workshop as well as a letter of support for the work of the New Pathways to Gold Society

* Request from Director Bonnell (Williams Lake) re: request for review of the processes and considerations in utilizing the BC Special Voting Regulation in November 2021 (request to City of Williams Lake to consider new appointee on Cariboo RD Board) 

* In-Camera Session -- Section 90(1e - land) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

Boil Water Advisory Issued for Golf Course, Westridge, Hodgson Road in Williams Lake

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake, in conjunction with Interior Health, is issuing a precautionary boil water advisory for the golf course, Westridge and Hodgson Road areas.

Affected areas include the entire Westridge and golf course subdivisions, properties on Hodgson Road from Terra Ridge to Dog Creek Road, Deer Park Terrace, the Terra Ridge strata complex and the Pioneer Complex, along with the Lutheran Church on Hodgson Road.

The precautionary boil water advisory will affect Zone 2 of the City’s west side water distribution system. All other areas of the City are not connected to this zone and will not be affected.

During ongoing replacement work of the water main on Hodgson Road, an upstream main cracked and required depressurization of the local area. The advisory has been issued out of an abundance of caution due to the length of time before repairs were able to be made.

The City and Interior Health are now awaiting the results of laboratory tests from samples taken at numerous locations and, once satisfactory outcomes are released, the boil water advisory will be lifted. The timeline from sampling to results will be early in the week of April 25 due to shipping and lab turnaround time.

Residents are asked to please heat water to a rolling boil for two minutes prior to use for cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, etc. You may wish to use bottled water for baby formula.

If you have any questions or concerns contact the City of Williams Lake’s Municipal Services Department at 250-392-1785 or at 250-392-1784. Residents can also contact an Interior Health Drinking Water Protection Officer at 250-851-7340, option 1, with any concerns.

For more drinking water reports and resources, along with a live, interactive map, visit Interior Health’s ‘Drinking Water for Everyone’ hub at drinkingwaterforeveryone.ca.

Lhtako Dené Nation, Province sign cannabis agreement

Courtesy of the Province of BC:

Lhtako Dené Nation and the Province of B.C. have reached an agreement supporting Lhtako’s participation in the cannabis economy, including opening a cannabis retail store this spring.

“This agreement demonstrates the Province’s commitment to supporting Indigenous participation in B.C.’s regulated cannabis market,” said the Hon. Mike Farnworth, BC's Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. “It respects and advances Lhtako’s vision for participation in the cannabis industry and furthers the diversity and strength of B.C.’s cannabis sector.”

Section 119 of the Cannabis Control and Licensing Act authorizes the Province to enter into agreements with Indigenous Nations, providing a mechanism for meaningful government-to-government dialogue and supporting collaboration that enables both governments to achieve individual and shared goals.

This government-to-government agreement enables variation from the provincial cannabis framework for Lhtako’s cannabis ventures and includes the option for Lhtako to operate in both production and retail sales. It provides flexibility for Lhtako to pursue their vision for participation in B.C.’s cannabis industry while aligning with the provincial regulatory regime.

“The Section 119 agreement gives us the freedom and flexibility to enter the cannabis economy on a level playing field with the rest of the province and gives us the opportunity to be competitive and successful. It completely shows that government-to-government agreements can be successful and real benefits can be achieved for both parties,” said Chief Clifford Lebrun, Lhtako Dené Nation. “It is our vision to open later this spring with a full staff, providing six to eight jobs for community members and non-community members alike and serving the general public in the Quesnel area. This agreement also supports a very important revenue stream for the Nation. Although not a huge revenue stream, it provides a steady flow that adds to others that will lead to complete self-sufficiency and the freedom to plan our own journey forward.”

Agreements made pursuant to Section 119 reflect the Province’s commitment to advancing reconciliation by supporting new economic development opportunities for Indigenous communities.

To further grow a strong and diverse cannabis industry in B.C., in January 2022, the Province launched the B.C. Indigenous Cannabis Product program. Programs for direct delivery and farm-gate sales are in development and will launch later this year.

Learn More:

To see the text of the Lhtako-B.C. Section 119 agreement, visit: https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/oic/oic_cur/0216_2022

For information on cannabis regulation in B.C., visit: https://www.cannabis.gov.bc.ca  

For information on the B.C. Indigenous Cannabis Product program, visit: https://www.bcldbcannabisupdates.com/BCICP

City of Williams Lake Plans Bid to Redevelop Property at Former Poplar Glade School Site

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake is excited to announce its plans to bid on the vacant former Poplar Glade property on Eleventh Avenue, following School District 27’s request for offers earlier this month.

If successful, the City’s focus is on timely development to address the critical shortage of available housing in Williams Lake.

In 2021, a joint housing study commissioned by the City of Williams Lake and Cariboo Regional District identified the need for 800 new housing units within a decade. The study recognized the property at Poplar Glade as the primary site of opportunity to address the community’s housing shortage.

The City has been actively preparing for the site to become available since initial discussions with School District 27 began in 2019. The Province recently released the property to the school district for sale, and the school district will adjudicate the proposal process and make the final decision.

Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb said the City is looking forward to working with any developer or partner that shares City Council’s vision to increase the City’s housing stock. 

“We are keenly aware of the dire need for housing in Williams Lake,” Cobb said. “The situation impacts the entire community, and the Poplar Glade property presents an extremely valuable opportunity to increase quality housing to support our existing population and prepare for growth. We believe the best way to ensure timely development at this site is for the City to acquire the property.”

As it is a competitive bidding process, details on the City’s offer will not be disclosed until the school district makes its decision public.

Editor's Note -- background on School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin)'s disposition (selling) of the former Poplar Glade Elementary School site in Williams Lake can be viewed here

Celebrating arts and local artists

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 majority of the pandemic restrictions now lifted, many of the events and activities we’ve missed over the past few years are available to us all once again. It’s nice to see people returning to our local restaurants, sports activities ramping up, tournaments being planned, and our summer festivals (fingers-crossed) back on the calendar. 

One of the sectors hardest hit by the necessary health restrictions was the Arts, particularly the performing arts community. That’s why it’s so important for us all to seek out every opportunity to support our local and visiting artisans when they schedule performances in the community; whether organized by Quesnel Live Arts (next event on April 23), by local groups and businesses, or by the Quesnel and District Community Arts Council.

I had the privilege to attend last week’s “Gallery of Honour” event organized by both the Quesnel and District Arts Council and the Quesnel Art Gallery and Gift Shop. The event had a two-fold purpose: to open a new art exhibit featuring two local artists, Sam Walters and Pat Hildebrandt; and to induct two new artisans into the Gallery of Honour. Both the Art Gallery and the Gallery of Honour are located at the Quesnel and District Arts and Recreation Centre.

The Gallery of Honour recognizes individuals “who have made significant contributions to the community through the Arts over the years” either in the domains of visual or performing arts, or in the areas of support, education, or advocacy.

This year two of Quesnel’s youth were inducted, both in the field of dance.

Larissa Munch, a member of the Nazko First Nation, was recognized for her leadership, advocacy, and performance of traditional dance. She graduated high school with honours and attended the University of British Columbia. Larissa has performed traditional dance at a great number of events, both locally and regionally, and is a strong advocate for her culture and a great role model for all of our youth. 

Elledae Armstrong is also a local graduate who is currently attending the University of British Columbia. She has practiced and performed dance in multiple genres, including jazz, ballet, stage, modern, tap, contemporary, and musical theatre. It was noted during the presentation that Elledae is renowned for her particular talent of being able to quickly shift between genres within the same performance. 

Both young women were recognized by the Arts Council for their outstanding leadership, youth mentorship, hard work and dedication that went beyond their craft, and their citizenship (overall contribution to the general community). It was a privilege to congratulate, on behalf of Quesnel City Council, both these young women for the well-deserved recognition they were receiving from the Arts Council.

Please take the time to drop into the Quesnel and District Arts and Recreation Centre to view the Gallery of Honour and to the Art Gallery to see its latest exhibit of local talent.

As we go about the community and participate in events, it’s important to continue to take precautions against the spread of the latest variant of the virus. Let’s respect the rights of our most vulnerable populations to also enjoy the restoration of these events by adhering to basic public health protocols: hand washing, minimizing contact, mask-wearing where appropriate. Let’s do our best to take care of each other as we transition back to normalcy.