The Clean Team and Day Labour Program: Peer Worker Gina

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

The Clean Team and Day Labour Program provides meaningful work to peers – people with lived experience in the areas of homelessness, mental health, and/or substance use issues. Peers are employed to pick up litter, needles, and other paraphernalia seven days a week throughout Quesnel- focusing on high-traffic areas such as schools, parks, and sidewalks. For the peers, the program means more than just employment – it means sharing their personal stories, social inclusion, gaining confidence, keeping our community safe and building a positive connection to the business community.

The program is funded through UBCM Strengthening Communities’ Services. This program has been a huge success for the peers, City, local businesses and community.

This video is a piece in a four-part video series highlighting the Clean Team and Day Labour Program. Watch for a new video every Wednesday.

Video:

2022 Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Elections Nomination Period - Day 2 of 9

Today is the 2nd day of the 9 day local elections nomination period that candidates can submit their candidate papers for formal approval to the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy of the local government or Board of Education that they are interested in seeking a position for (Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director or School Trustee)

CivicInfoBC's 2022 Local Elections Candidates Portal (click here) reports that the following individuals have filed with the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy for the Districts of Wells/100 Mile House, Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake, Cariboo Regional District or School Districts' #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) or #28 (Quesnel)

Wells - none

Quesnel - none

School District #28 (Quesnel) - none 

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - none

Williams Lake - Walt Cobb (Mayor), Micheal Moses (Councillor)
100 Mile House - none 

Cariboo Regional District - Steve Forseth (Area "D"); 

WL Council Highlights - August 30th mtg

Present: Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors Boehm (via Zoom), Bonnell, Brenner, Nelson, Ryll, Smith

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

The Mayor recognized that the meeting was taking place on the original homeland of Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) peoples within Secwepemculecw

Meeting agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous City Council meeting held on August 16th, 2022 were received/adopted

Delegation:

Ms. Erin Hitchcock appeared before Council to discuss GoByBike Weeks - October 3 to 16, 2022

A Question/Answer period ensued following the presentation from Ms. Hitchcock

Mayor Cobb, on behalf of Council, thanked the delegation for their time/information

Resolved -- That the presentation of Erin Hitchcock, on behalf of Scout Island Nature Centre and the GoByBike Group, providing an overview of the upcoming GoByBike weeks taking place in Williams Lake from October 3 to 16, 2022, and inviting Council to participate in the 'Politician on a Pedal Challenge' during these weeks, be received and Staff be requested to report back on re-activating the past Active Transportation Committee

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated August 16, 18, 19 and 25, 2022

2) Council rescinded second reading of Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2335 as given on June 30, 2020, received the updated information regarding the revised application from TK & Sons Contracting Inc., on behalf of 4330 Wilson Creek Fuel Inc., to rezone the subject property located at 1238 Broadway Avenue South, re-read Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2335 a 2nd time, as amended and directed that a public hearing be held on September 20, 2022 at 6:00 PM in Williams Lake Council Chambers and that Staff report back on process in regards to derelict properties in the City of Williams Lake 

3) Council received for information the report of the Public Hearing for Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2372 held August 16, 2022

4) Council approved the award of contract to Nilsson Select Contracting Ltd. for the tendered price of $134,3400.00 plus applicable taxes for logging and fuel treatment in the vicinity of Missioner Creek and 12th Ave North

5) Council ratified an email poll endorsing a recommendation from a previous Committee of the Whole, as follows:

"That, pursuant to the Committee of Whole Council Report #14-2022 that the report of the Recovery Coordinator dated August 18, 2022 be received and that Council pursue a strategic approach to climate change with buy-in at the corporate level pursuing actions to enhance the City’s corporate and community-wide commitments, and staff be authorized to submit the documentation required to participate in the new Local Government Climate Action Program and demonstrate climate investment equivalent to 20% of the provincial funding through current investments and/or the allocation of funds from the City’s climate action reserve if the City is approved for participation"

6) Council endorsed recommendations from a previous Committee of the Whole meeting, as follows:

a) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #15-2022, and the report of the Director of Human Resources dated July 19, 2022, Council approve an amendment to the 'Annual Indemnity for Mayor and Councillors Policy No. 183' to update the remuneration for Mayor and Councillors, effective November 1, 2022, to $63,588 and $22,964, respectively.

b) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #16-2022 and the report of the Manager of Economic Development dated June 27, 2022 regarding an overview of potential uses for the vacant City-owned McKinnon road lot, staff be directed to bring back a report on undertaking a public Request for Proposals (RFP) process to solicit options for developing housing on the lot

c) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #17-2022, Council send a letter to the Provincial Government and BCGEU urging both parties to resolve their dispute quickly to reduce the impact on local residents and businesses

7) Council received for information the following correspondence:

a) Information from the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation dated July 28, 2022 requesting input on the Province' Zero-Emission Vehicles (ZEV) Act and Regulation

b) Letter from the Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General dated August 22, 2022 responding to the letter from Mayor Cobb dated May 20, 2022 regarding prolific offenders and the use of electronic supervision

c) Letter from the Joint Working Group on First Nations Heritage Conservation (JWGFNHC) dated August 23, 2022 regarding an invitation to the Heritage Conservation Act and this letter be referred to Council's Indigenous Relations/Reconciliation Committee for consideration

8) Council proclaimed the following weeks:

* Rail Safety Week - September 19 to 25, 2022

* National Forest Week - September 18 to 24, 2022

* Prostate Cancer Awareness Month - September 12 to 16, 2022

9) Council received the Council Information Package as of August 30th

Council agreed to adjourn at 6:48pm

Williams Lake Fire Department to see some leadership changes

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The Williams Lake Fire Department will be seeing some changes over the next few months. 

After four years as Fire Chief of the Williams Lake Fire Department, Erick Peterson has taken on a new challenge as the City of Abbotsford’s Fire Chief.  As well, longtime employee Joan Flaspohler is moving on after 27 years with the City – 23 of them with the fire department.

“We have been fortunate to have Chief Peterson lead our Protective Services department through many challenges, including natural disasters and other emergencies, and we wish him continued success in his new role,” said City of Williams Lake Chief Administrative Officer Gary Muraca. “The Williams Lake Fire Department was in good hands under his leadership, and he leaves big shoes to fill.”

“We are also losing a dedicated employee with Joan Flaspohler’ s resignation,” continued Muraca. “She will be missed, and we wish her all the best in her new chapter.” 

Former Fire Chief Randy Isfeld will be stepping in to lead the fire department on an interim basis while the City recruits a new Fire Chief. 

“We are fortunate to have such highly trained and dedicated career fire staff and paid on call volunteers at the Williams Lake Fire Department, ensuring our community’s ongoing safety,” said Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb. “With Acting Fire Chief Randy Isfeld returning to the fire department, the transition to a new Fire Chief will be well-supported. We look forward to welcoming a new Fire Chief as we undergo the recruitment process.”

2022 Local Elections Nomination Period - Day 1 of 9

Today - the Chief Election Officers' or their Deputies' for the Districts of 100 Mile House/Wells, Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake, Cariboo Regional District and School Districts #27/#28 (Cariboo-Chilcotin/Quesnel) can formally begin to receive completed candidate nomination forms for the elected positions of Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director and School Trustee, starting at 9am today - Tuesday, August 30th, 2022 until 4pm sharp! on Friday, September 9th, 2022 EXCLUDING the weekend of Saturday/Sunday, September 3rd/4th, 2022

For information on relating to the 2022 Local General Elections such as general candidate information, voting days, etc., including contact information in order to make an appointment to visit the Chief Election Officer or their Deputy for the Local Governments or School Districts' to submit completed candidate nomination forms- please see links below:

Wells - click here
Quesnel - click here
Williams Lake - click here
100 Mile House - click here
Cariboo Regional District - click here
School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - click here
School District #28 (Quesnel) - click here

You can monitor who has filed their nomination papers with the local Chief Election Officer or their Deputy for the Office of Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director or School Trustee via the CivicInfo 2022 Election Candidate Portal here 

Later today - I will be visiting the Cariboo Regional District's Chief Election Officer to formally file my Electoral Area 'D' Director candidate nomination papers for a re-election bid for a 3rd consecutive term as the Cariboo Regional District's Electoral Area "D" Director

For those seeking re-election or election for the 1st time - best of luck... 

To those who are retiring from local political life - the people of the Cariboo-Chilcotin thank you for your public service, no matter who long you have served and wish you the very best in your future endeavours...

As of this morning, the following individuals have publicly confirmed their intention (either through social or local media) to seek local elected office, as follows:

District of Wells (elect 1 Mayor and 4 Councillors) - 

Incumbents - Ed Coleman seeks election for a full 4 year term as the Mayor of Wells, after being elected in a by-election on February 5th, 2022

Unknown - Incumbent Councillors Mandy Kilsby, Shannon McDonnagh, Dorothea Funk and Jennifer Lewis

City of Quesnel (elect 1 Mayor and 6 Councillors): 

Incumbents -- Mayor Bob Simpson (also current Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board Chair) seeks re-election for 3rd term

Unknown - Incumbent Councillors Ron Paull, Scott Elliott, Laurey-Anne Roodenburg, Tony Goulet, Martin Runge and Mitch Vik

Board of Education (SD28 - Quesnel) (elect 7 School Trustees at large)- unknown at this time

Board of Education (SD27 - Cariboo/Chilcotin) (elect 1 School Trustee per Area with 7 School Trustee Electoral Areas in total) - Zone 5 (WL Rural) Trustee Angie Delainey seeks re-election for 2nd consecutive term.  Re-election plans for School Trustees in Zones 1-4, 6 and 7 are unknown at this time

City of Williams Lake (Elect 1 Mayor and 6 Councillors):

Incumbents - Mayor Walt Cobb to seek re-election for a 3rd consecutive term

Challengers - Micheal Moses, Jazmyn Lyons and Joan Flaspohler are all seeking election for a first term as a Williams Lake City Councillor while Surinderpal Rathor seeks, for the 3rd consecutive time, to become Mayor of Williams Lake 

Unknown - Incumbent Councillors Sheila Boehm, Marnie Brenner, Ivan Bonnell, Scott Nelson, Jason Ryll, Craig Smith

District of 100 Mile House (elect 1 Mayor and 4 Councillors):

Incumbents - Councillor Maureen Pinkney to seek election as Mayor of 100 Mile House 

Unknown - Incumbent Councillors Dave Mingo, Ralph Fossum, Chris Pettman and Incumbent Mayor Mitch Campsall

Cariboo Regional District (elect 1 Director per Electoral Area with 12 Electoral Areas in total):

Incumbents -- Area A: Director Mary Sjostrom seeks re-election for 2nd term; Area D: Director Steve Forseth seeks re-election for 3rd term; Area E: Director Angie Delainey seeks re-election for 2nd term; Area F: Director Maureen LeBourdais seeks re-election for 2nd term

Unknown -- Directors' for Areas B,C,G,H,I,J,K,L (Barb Bachmeier, John Massier, Al Richmond, Margo Wagner, Jim Glassford, Gerald Kirby, Chad Mernett and Willow Macdonald)

~SF

City of WL Manager of Finance retires

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

After a 34-year career with the City of Williams Lake, Manager of Finance Angela Cail has announced her retirement effective August 31st.

Angela began her career with the City in 1988 as the Senior Accounting Clerk, and moved her way up through the organization in various roles. “I had been working at the Cariboo Regional District when the position came up, so I only had to walk across the parking lot to the City,” she joked.

Angela took on the role of Administration Coordinator at the Williams Lake Regional Airport in 1997, and spent 15 years working at the airport before accepting a position as the Administration Coordinator at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex. After six years at the Complex and a brief stint as the City’s Purchasing Agent, Angela returned to her roots in finance as the Manager of Finance, a role she has held for the past four years.

Angela said she has loved working for the City and being a part of a local government organization. She also reflects fondly on the many City staff members she’s worked alongside over the years. “That’s one thing I’ve really enjoyed: working with the staff and, hopefully, helping them to achieve some of their work goals has been my favourite part,” she said. “I also love working with numbers – they just make sense to me – so financial services was my ‘thing.’”

Williams Lake Mayor Walt Cobb said he wishes Angela well in her retirement and added she is certainly going to be missed. “She goes back a long way in supporting the City’s operations in many roles,” Cobb said. “She’s a very conscientious worker in all of the positions she has filled over the years.”

Vitali Kozubenko, Chief Financial Officer, echoed Cobb’s comments and said, on behalf of City staff, he’d like to thank Angela for all of her hard work. “We sure will miss her knowledge, support and dedication,” Kozubenko said.

“It is going to be hard to replace Angela on our team. The City deeply appreciates Angela’s years of dedication and wishes her well as she enjoys this new chapter,” Director of Human Resources Ashley Williston added.

When she’s not crunching numbers ensuring the responsible and efficient financial operations of the City, Angela values family above all. She and her husband Steve will be retiring to Kelowna this fall to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

Angela still isn’t quite ready to relinquish her Cariboo roots, however, as she and Steve plan to keep their cabin at Quesnel Lake for annual family get-togethers and weekend escapes. “Williams Lake has always been very good to our family,” she said. “We use that expression a lot. Steve and I were both fortunate to have good jobs and we raised our kids here. We’re definitely going to miss the friends we made over the years.”

Projects underway in Cariboo-Chilcotin will reduce wildfire risk, enhance forest health

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Work is underway to enhance forest resilience to protect against the impacts of wildfire and climate change in the Cariboo Region. 

Through a provincial investment of $25 million, the Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC) has funded 22 new community projects, including four in the Cariboo Region. This includes work to reduce wildfire risk, while enhancing wildlife habitat, reduce greenhouse gas emissions from slash pile burning, and support forest recreation and ecological resiliency.

“The Forest Enhancement Society of BC is a proven partner in delivering projects on the ground that protect people from wildfire risks and reduce emissions from slash pile burning,” said the Hon. Katrine Conroy, BC's Minister of Forests. “Along with the historic investments in Budget 2022 to transform the BC Wildfire Service into a year-round service and double funding for proactive wildfire prevention, these new projects funded by FESBC will help build communities that are safer and more resilient to climate change.”

Wildfire-mitigation projects funded in the Cariboo Region include:

• Clinton District Community Forest of BC Ltd., $450,870 – Treatment of 300-metre-wide fuel break adjacent to the transmission line west of Clinton. Low-grade fibre will also be recovered.
• Elhdaqox Developments Ltd., $500,000 – Wildfire risk reduction planning and treatments to reduce the wildfire risk to the Yunesit’in Community and rehabilitate burned and beetle-affected stands that will create local employment opportunities.
• Eniyud Community Forest Ltd., $1,500,000 – Fuel management treatments to reduce the wildfire risk from forests affected by mountain pine beetle near Horn Lake and along Tatlayoko Lake, which is a vital main access/egress route for the local residences.
• The City of Quesnel, $529,000 – Prescriptions and treatments will be conducted on specific sites identified for wildfire risk reduction in the Community Wildfire Protection Plan. Treatments will include thinning, pruning and debris cleanup while promoting fibre removal and utilization

“FESBC is thrilled that communities in the Cariboo will be able to continue this important work to reduce their wildfire risk to better protect their residents and important infrastructure,” said Steve Kozuki, executive director, FESBC. “These newly funded projects take a proactive approach to reduce the risks of wildfire and many will also improve wildlife habitat, increase the health of forests so they are more resilient to climate change and use the left-over wood waste to make green energy. Achieving multiple objectives is good forest management and good value for money.”

Work has already begun and all projects are expected to be complete by March 2024. To date, approved funding from the FESBC 2022-23 Funding Program totals $14 million. Additional applications through the FESBC portal are welcome and will be accepted until the $25-million fund has been allocated.

Since 2016, FESBC has supported more than 260 projects throughout B.C. Sixty-three of these projects have been led by First Nations and another 23 have significant First Nations’ involvement. FESBC projects have reduced wildfire risk in 120 communities and have created more than 2,100 full-time jobs.

“The City of Quesnel is extremely grateful to the Forest Enhancement Society of BC for its sustained support of our wildfire risk reduction efforts in Quesnel and surrounding area,” said Erin Robinson, forestry initiatives manager, City of Quesnel. “This funding will allow us to continue our work of improving the health of forest stands that are a threat to our community, by reducing the risk to the people and their properties and keeping infrastructure safer during wildfire events. Access to FESBC funds is critical for us to continue our grassroots wildfire risk reduction projects and we look forward to working with FESBC for many years to come.”

As part of the CleanBC Roadmap to 2030, the Province will work toward near elimination of slash pile burning by 2030 and will divert materials away from slash piles and into bioproduct development. This will reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, while creating new opportunities in British Columbia’s expanding forest bioeconomy.

The $25 million provided to FESBC is a component of $359 million announced in Budget 2022 to protect British Columbians from wildfires, including $145 million to strengthen the BC Wildfire Service and Emergency Management BC.

“Through provincial investments, the Forest Enhancement Society of BC has funded critical projects to help reduce wildfire risk and greenhouse gas emissions,” said Doug Routley, Parliamentary Secretary for Forests. “Diverting materials away from slash piles not only reduces fire risk but creates new opportunities in our province’s forest economy. These projects accomplish multiple objectives to help communities be more resilient to climate change.”

FESBC is a Crown agency established in 2016 to advance the environmental and resource stewardship of the province’s forests by preventing wildfires and mitigating wildfire impacts, improving damaged or low-value forests, improving wildlife habitat, supporting the use of fibre from damaged or low-value forests, and treating forests to improve the management of greenhouse gases.

Learn More:

Forest Enhancement Society of BC: https://www.fesbc.ca/

To view funded projects, visit:
https://www.fesbc.ca/minister-of-forests-announces-new-projects-funded-by-fesbc/

School Districts' in Cariboo-Chilcotin to receive one time grant for Back to School Expenses

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

The Province is helping make back-to-school more affordable for students and their families who are struggling with rising costs of living due to global inflation.

Through the Student and Family Affordability Fund, $60 million will help school districts make sure students are fed and have the school supplies they need to be successful this year.

“Many families in B.C. are feeling the effects of global inflation on daily costs, including groceries, school supplies and other school expenses,” said the Hon. Jennifer Whiteside, BC's Minister of Education and Child Care. “We’re taking action by providing more funding that school districts will use to help meet the needs of families and students.”

The one-time funding will be provided directly to school districts to help them expand school meal programs, make sure students have the school supplies they need and cover any additional fees so that students in need can take part in activities, such as field trips.

Districts will work with with parent advisory councils and school communities, as well as local First Nations and other Indigenous organizations, regarding local priorities that will best meet the needs of diverse student populations.

In addition to the $60 million for school districts, $3.8 million will be provided through the Federation of Independent School Associations (FISA) to support families struggling with increasing costs and that access education through independent school authorities. 

The funding is the first step in government’s commitment to make sure students are properly fed for learning and to work with school districts to support the expansion of food and meal programs. It builds on $55 million in annual funding provided to districts through the Ministry of Education and Child Care’s CommunityLINK initiative, which funds breakfast, lunch and snack programs, academic supports, counselling, youth workers and after-school programs.

This announcement is part of a number of measures that BC's Minister of Finance (Hon. S. Robinson) will announce next week to help those hardest hit during this time of high global inflation.

Quick Facts:

• Government is investing $7.4 billion in K-12 education in 2022-23, which is $1.8 billion more than in 2016-17.
• Budget 2022 provides $250 million more funding for public schools than Budget 2021, and with the one-time $60 million provided through the Student and Family Affordability Fund, this increases to $310 million for public schools.
• Through the Student and Family Affordability Fund, every school district will receive a minimum of $250,000.

Learn More:

For the funding allocation per school district, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/SFAF_Allocations.pdf

For School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) -- Funding to be received is $547,562

For School District #28 (Quesnel) -- Funding to be received is $357,657

Joan Flaspohler to run for Williams Lake City Council in October

After announcing earlier this month that she was leaving the Williams Lake Fire Department to pursue "other opportunities"... former Williams Lake Fire Department Deputy Fire Chief Joan Flaspohler yesterday announced, on Facebook, that she will be running for one of the six Williams Lake City Councillor seats in this October's Williams Lake Local General Election - see more on her election Facebook page here.  As of this writing -- her Facebook election page has already been shared more than a dozen times... 

In addition to Ms. Flaspohler - Micheal Moses and Jasmyn Lyons have also announced bids for Williams Lake City Council with the 2022 Nomination Period for Williams Lake Mayor/Councillors' commencing tomorrow (August 30th) at 9am for a 10 day period terminating on Friday, September 9th, 2022 at 4pm sharp!

Finally - incumbent Williams Lake City Councillors' Sheila Boehm, Ivan Bonnell, Marnie Brenner, Scott Nelson, Jason Ryll and Craig Smith have yet to publicly reveal their re-election plans, either via social or local media

~SF 

Local Gov't Mtgs - Week of August 29th - September 2nd

During the week of Monday, August 29th to Friday, September 2nd, 2022 -- the following local governments' of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be holding meetings, with the exception of Boards' of Education for School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) and #28 (Quesnel) are still on summer recess and will resume their monthly meetings in mid to late September, as follows:

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, August 30th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  Meeting to be livestreamed via YouTube here.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Erin Hitchcock re GoByBike Week - October 3 to 16, 2022

* Rezoning Application for 1238 Broadway Avenue South (re-do 2nd Reading and set Public Hearing date)

* Logging and Fuel Treatment IFB-19S Missioner Creek to 12th Avenue

* Recommendation from Committee of the Whole -- Local Government Climate Action Program (LGCAP) [Direction to Proceed]

* Recommendations from previous Committee of the Whole meeting for endorsement (Council Remuneration, McKinnon Road Lot and Provincial Government/BCGEU Labour Dispute)

* Response Letter from Minister Farnworth re GPS Monitoring of Prolific Offenders

 

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District (CCRHD) - Regular Board of Directors' Meeting on Thursday, September 1st at 9:30am in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations Memorandum of Business

* Hospital Consent Calendar

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District -  Regular Board of Directors' Meeting on Thursday, September 1st upon adjournment of the CCRHD Board meeting and said meeting to be held in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Land Use Matters (Bylaws/Permits)

* Bring Forward In-Camera Resolution for Public Information (Approved Staff changes within Utilities Department)

* Assignment of Cariboo RD Board Directors to speak on Cariboo RD 2022 UBCM Resolutions

View the full Agenda here

Finally - on Tuesday, August 30th -- the 2022 Nomination Period for the elected positions of Mayor, Councillor, Electoral Area Director and School Trustee will commence over a 10 day period.  I will have more to say about this on a blog post on Tuesday morning....

~SF

City of Quesnel releases new pre-reviewed carriage house and secondary dwelling designs

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

The City of Quesnel has released five pre-reviewed design plans for carriage houses and secondary dwellings. The plans are now available at no cost to homeowners in Quesnel and the Cariboo Regional District's Quesnel Fringe Areas. 

Earlier this spring, the City of Quesnel engaged a designer and the community in the creation of the pre-reviewed designs to reduce costs for homeowners and expedite the building permit process. The final designs were informed by feedback from the community from two focus groups, a virtual community meeting on May 30, and 71 responses to an online and print survey that closed on June 10, 2022.

“Developing the designs for carriage houses and secondary dwellings is just one of the steps the City is taking to expand housing options in our community in new and sustainable ways," said Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson. "The positive response and feedback we received allowed us to tailor the designs to meet the community’s unique needs. We look forward to seeing construction of these new homes using the designs.”

The City is committed to expediting building permits within three business days when using these designs. The City has also received a grant to waive fees for the first 15 building permits submitted in Quesnel using the designs until October 31, 2023.

The designs can be previewed now, along with answers to frequently asked questions and tips for getting started, on the City website at www.quesnel.ca/adus. 

Community Consultation
View the May 30 community meeting recording and feedback summary at letsconnectquesnel.ca/adus.

Background
In 2019, the City updated its zoning bylaw to allow for accessory dwelling units (including basement suites, carriage houses and accessory dwellings) in residential zones.

Accessory dwelling units have many benefits. They can provide a wider range of housing options for residents, help make homeownership more attainable by providing a mortgage helper, and allow for more housing development without needing more land. 

In addition, the new designs for carriage houses and secondary dwellings will help support energy efficient construction. Four of the designs meet Step 3 of the Energy Step Code and one meets Step 5, the highest level of energy efficiency.

Learn more about accessory dwelling units at www.quesnel.ca/adus

Quesnel part of first lignin asphalt trial in BC

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

The City of Quesnel will be the first location in British Columbia to trial a new lignin-based asphalt next week on Neighbour Road in South Quesnel.

Bitumen (from petroleum) is the traditional binder in asphalt, but can be replaced by lignin. Known as the “natural wood glue”, lignin binds together the cellulose fibres in plants, and is a by-product of the forestry industry. Using lignin in asphalt may result in a greener, more environmentally-friendly alternative to bitumen. This project will see a ~10% replacement of bitumen with lignin.

In recent years, environmental considerations related to the use of petroleum-based products have led to exploring greener options for reducing the carbon footprint of asphalt roads. Additionally, pavement degradation accelerated by higher traffic and increasing cycles of freeze and thaws due to climate change has had direct impact on municipalities’ paving budgets.

Similar trials took place in Alberta and Ontario over the past 2 years; all of the trials have been spearheaded by FPInnovations. Quesnel Paving will mix dry powder lignin (the consistency of cinnamon) into the asphalt prior to paving and then apply in the standard method.

In the years to come, project partners will analyse the lignin-based test site on performance, techno-economic feasibility and on environmental benefits through a life cycle assessment.

Preliminary results from other test sites indicate that lignin-based asphalt allows for a substantial reduction of the carbon footprint compared to its fossil-based counterparts as well improves the longevity of the asphalt.

“This is a great opportunity for Quesnel to partner with a not-for-profit company to find innovative ways to reduce our carbon footprint, support the forest industry and improve our roads in the process,” said Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson.

“This is an important opportunity for local use of innovative materials from the forest industry” said Erin Robinson, Forestry Initiatives Manager for the City of Quesnel. “If this trial is successful and meets the City’s asphalt performance specifications, there will be long-term economic and environmental benefits in utilizing the lignin-based asphalt in other City projects in the future.”

To learn more, visit https://web.fpinnovations.ca/lignin-from-canadian-forests-the-secret-ingredient-for-greener-roads/.

City of Williams Lake Crews Responding to Recent Storm Activity

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

City of Williams Lake crews will be busy for the next couple of days with clean up and repairs following the rapid accumulation of precipitation from last night’s storm.

Due to the rapid water load, some overflowing manholes caused water to back up onto the City streets, causing traffic to slow. Pat Mahood, Manager of Public Works, said the City’s storm water collection system is designed to carry storm flows in underground piping and in open ditch.

“Older areas of the City have smaller storm mains than newer areas as the design criteria has changed over the years, as has the frequency of high-intensity, short-duration events,” Mahood said. “This change in intensity and the landscape of a City built on hillsides can lead to a surcharging of the underground storm system, which results in lifted manhole covers to relieve the pressure.”

Mahood noted the surcharged manholes are typically located at the bottom of hills and lower areas in the City’s collection system and are not welded or bolted down to allow for relief of flows to the street curb and gutters.

The City responds to high-intensity, short-duration events in known areas during these events and checks the areas once the system can resume underground flow.

The City has a 24-hour emergency line that can be reached at 250-392-5255 to report any concerns during these events.

Stswecem'c Xget'tem First Nation receives Federal funding for Food Security and Healing

Courtesy of the Government of Canada:

Editor's Note -- Stswecem'c Xget'tem First Nation will receive $287,922 from the Federal Government to improve food security for the Stswecem'c Xget'tem First Nation by constructing two green houses, two walk-in freezers, and a canning shed. Stswecem'c Xget'tem First Nation will contribute $95,975 from its' own budget for this project

The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, on behalf of the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities, and the Honourable Nathan Cullen, MLA for Stikine and B.C. Minister of Municipal Affairs, announced more than $20 million in joint federal-provincial funding for eight social, transportation, and green infrastructure projects across British Columbia.

The Stswecem'c Xget'tem First Nation will gain greater food security through the construction of two green houses, two walk-in freezers, and a canning shed, which will support the community garden and sustainability program. These developments will help safeguard against the impact on food production caused by environmental threats.

Minister Sajjan stated:

“This funding will have a positive impact in the lives of thousands of British Columbians. Our Government remains committed to working with our provincial partners to grow local economies, build more resilient communities, and protect BC’s breathtaking nature.”

While the Hon. Nathan Cullen - BC's Municipal Affairs Minister further commented:

“This investment in eight infrastructure projects across the province shows our commitment to the resilience and welfare of communities. From more food security for the Stswecem'c Xget'tem First Nation to improved wastewater treatment on Salt Spring Island, we are supporting community well-being and the protection of the natural environment.”

Maureen LeBourdais seeks re-election in Cariboo RD Area "F"

This past Saturday (August 20th, 2022) -- Cariboo Regional District Electoral Area "F" (150 Mile House - Horsefly - Likely) Director Maureen LeBourdais announced her intention to seek re-election in October's BC Local Government Elections' - see more from the Williams Lake Tribune here

In addition to herself -- the Cariboo Regional District's Area Directors' for Electoral Areas A,D,E (Mary Sjostrom, Steve Forseth, Angie Delainey) have all publicly announced bids for re-election.  

Meanwhile, Cariboo Regional District Area Directors' for Electoral Areas' B,C,G,H,I,J,K and L [Barb Bachmeier, John Massier, Al Richmond, Margo Wagner, Jim Glassford, Gerald Kirby, Chad Mernett and Willow Macdonald] have not publicly announced plans for re-election in October 

The formal nomination period to run for the Cariboo Regional District's 12 Area Director positions for Electoral Areas A-L inclusive commences from August 30th - September 9th with General Voting Day set for Saturday October 15th, 2022 from 8am - 8pm... 

~SF

Sanford Family celebrates 100 Years of Ranching!

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

A family ranch known for its landmark barn is being recognized with a Century Farm Award for its contributions to the Cariboo region and the B.C. farming community.  

“Our province’s agricultural sector was built by pioneer farmers who purchased land and started producing food for their communities,” said the Hon. Lana Popham, BC's Minister of Agriculture and Food. “In the Cariboo, the Sanford family has been doing just that for a century at Nine Mile Ranch, nine miles northwest of Quesnel. Their commitment to family and community is a reason to celebrate. Congratulations, Sanford family, on your Century Farm Award!”

The legacy of Nine Mile Ranch began in the early 1920s when Walter Sanford, a druggist from London, England, and his wife, Cristiana, an opera singer, arrived in Canada. When visiting their son, Jim, and daughter, Ivy, in Bouchie Lake in August 1922, the Sanford's bought the property that would become Nine Mile Ranch.

Jim and his wife, Wyn, took over operating the ranch in the 1930s. The land at that time was bush, and Jim and his son, Jim Jr., worked tirelessly to clear the land and create pasture and fields. In 1937, they logged behind the home and peeled enough logs in one day to build the landmark hip-roof barn that adorned the ranch for many decades. Unfortunately, the roof was destroyed during a windstorm in 2020, changing the view along the road where the original home once stood.  

Jim Jr. and his wife, Annice, had three children, Bill, Joan and Alan, who all grew up on the property and attended nearby Bouchie Lake School. The ranch continued to grow as well. Hereford cattle replaced the dairy cows that occupied the valley in the early years. Eventually, other cattle breeds, such as Simmental, were introduced in the 1980s, followed by Angus.

Today, Alan and his wife, Lorraine, and their four children, Robin, Reanne, Riley and Ross, run the ranch's cattle operation. One hundred years after Walter and Cristiana's arrival, the Sanford family has expanded to include another generation: eight of their great-great-great grandchildren now visit or live on the property.

“Beef cattle have become not only our passion, but our way of life, and we have taken great pride in producing quality cattle and beef for sale in our local community,” said Reanne Sanford. “After 100 years, there is a lot to be grateful for, and we are certainly thankful for the opportunity to farm this land that has provided for generations of this family.”

The Century Farm Awards honour pioneers whose farms, ranches or agricultural organizations have been active in B.C. for 100 years or more. Each award celebrates the rich heritage of farming and ranching in British Columbia. The Century Farm Award program was created in 1994,  which was the Ministry of Agriculture’s centennial.

Learn More:

For more information and to nominate a farm or organization for a Century Farm Award, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/programs/century-farm-awards

BC Housing Public Engagement - 383 St. Laurent Ave, Quesnel BC

At its' meeting of Tuesday, August 16th, 2022 -- Quesnel City Council agreed to the following Resolution (with Councillor Tony Goulet voting in opposition):

"THAT Council provides First reading to City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 1928, 2022 (for property at 383 St. Laurent Avenue) and sets the public hearing for Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers - 410 Kinchant Street"

The City of Quesnel Staff report on this item can be viewed here while the remaining attachments for this item (Agenda Item K3) can be viewed here.  The Quesnel Council meeting video discussing this item can be viewed here

BC Housing is the applicant of this re-zoning proposal and is currently conducting public engagement - both online & in-person and the full details of both can be viewed here

Public Engagement by BC Housing on this matter is scheduled to terminate on August 29th and a summary of the public engagement by BC Housing will be presented to Quesnel Council at its' September 6th, 2022 meeting with the formal public hearing on the rezoning at 383 St. Laurent Avenue currently scheduled for Tuesday, September 13th at 6pm and to be held in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant Street - Quesnel BC)

~SF

Drinking Water Public Notification for the community of Lac La Hache

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

The Cariboo Regional District is advising all water customers in Lac La Hache to boil their drinking water after recent samples showed the presence of Coliform. Interior Health has been notified and the CRD is working to find the source of contamination and fix the problem, which may include disinfecting the system. The boil water advisory will remain in effect until further notice.

The boil water advisory includes several precautionary steps for customers. These include using purchased bottled water or boiled water for drinking, brushing teeth, dishwashing, preparing food, and making ice. Water should come to a roiling boil for one minute, then cool to an appropriate temperature before using. The advisory will remain in effect until the Cariboo Regional District and Interior Health are confident the water is safe. When satisfactory results are reported, customers will be notified that the advisory has been lifted. 

What to do during a boil water notice

Wells/Williams Lake Councils' meet next week!

During the week of August 22-26, 2022 -- District of Wells Council as well as City of Williams Lake Council will meet, as follows:

Wells - Special Closed (In-Camera) Council Meeting on Wednesday, August 24th, 2022 at 10am, via Zoom under the provision of Section 90(1c - labour) of the Community Charter.  View the full closed meeting notice here 

Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, August 23rd, 2022 at 6:00pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart Street).  Meeting will NOT be livestreamed, via YouTube

On the Agenda:

Delegation(s) - None

Business:

* 2023 Budget and Financial Plan Timeline and Direction

* Climate Action Tools - Staff request direction for next steps

* Discussion -- Relationship between City of Williams Lake Council/Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Cariboo Regional District Boards'

* Council Remuneration - 2023 onward... 

* McKinnon Road Lot (corner of 9th Avenue/McKinnon Road)- Staff request direction for next steps

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake First Nation Band Council Elections - August 18th, 2022

 

Courtesy of Williams Lake First Nation, via WLFN Facebook page

Earlier today - the electors (voters) of Williams Lake First Nation elected two new Band Councillors' for a new 4 year term.  Kukpi7 (Chief) Willie Sellars had already been re-elected by acclamation.  Congratulations to the newly elected Band Councillors' and those who were not elected, thank you for putting your name on the ballot - it takes courage to do so - and please continue to be engaged and active in your community's affairs... 

SF

Quesnel Council Highlights - August 16th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Presentation - Quesnel Ambassador Leadership Program Plaque Presentation to Outgoing Ambassadors - 2021/2022 Jessie Johal Naylene Runge Jaeana Dumais Introduction to Incoming Ambassadors - 2022/2023 Nevaeh Kueber Jada Crossman

QYZ Fuel Card Reader Due to changes with Visa and, potentially other major credit card companies, Council approved the allocation of $35,000 from 2022 airport surplus funds for the purchase and installation of a Fuel Card Reader at the Quesnel Regional Airport.

 

Local Government Climate Action Program In 2022, the provincial government launched a new local government Climate Action Program that provides local governments predictable and stable funding to support the implementation of local climate action that reduces emissions and prepares communities for the impacts of a changing climate. In 2022, Quesnel will receive $107,082 to support these initiatives. Projects will be reviewed during the budget process. The City’s greenhouse gases were 1,167 tCO2e in 2021 a decrease of 7.9% from 2020 due largely to a lighter snow year than usual, so less diesel was used for the snow clearing equipment.

Zoning amendment proposal - 383 St. Laurent Avenue Council was asked to consider BC Housing's request for a zoning amendment. BC Housing obtained funding through the Permanent Housing Plan to acquire a new site in Quesnel that is intended to expand supportive housing units in the community.  BC Housing assessed several properties in our area and, found only one that would meet all of its requirements. The proposal to acquire 383 St. Laurent (current Ramada Inn) to expand supportive housing units in the community and move the shelter and transitional spaces off Carson Avenue, as is outlined in BC Housing's Justification letter. An amendment to the zoning bylaw is required for these uses to be located at this site. Council provided first reading on the proposed Bylaw, setting in motion the process for public consultation and feedback.  BC Housing will be holding community sessions allowing the public to ask BC Housing questions about their proposal.  A report on the feedback will come to the September 6 Council meeting and, the Public Hearing for community comment is scheduled for September 13.

 

Policy Updates - Latecomer & Strata Conversion Council approved changes to Latecomer Policy CCR-26 and Strata Conversion Policy CCR-25, with only minor changes

 

Bylaws Bylaw 1926 - City of Quesnel 2020 - 2023 Tax Exempting Amendment Bylaw No. 1926 of 2022 - First, Second and Third Readings Bylaw 1768 - Quesnel Road Closure and Dedication Removal Bylaw No. 1768 of 2022 - Third Reading Bylaw 1928 - City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1928, 2022 (383 St. Laurent Avenue) - First Reading and, Set Public Hearing Date for: Tuesday, September 13, 2022 at 6pm at Council Chambers, City Hall, 410 Kinchant Street.