Orange Shirt Day 2022

Firstly, I write to you from the traditional unceded territory of the Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) peoples including that of the Williams Lake First Nation 

Today is #OrangeShirtDay2022 and also known as the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. A day where we remember all residential school survivors, those who are with us today and those that did not make it. 

Let us hope that we learn from history and never repeat the lessons that came from the creation of residential schools including respect for indigenous cultures, that #EveryChildMatters and for inclusion. 

My Area's Alternate Director, Phyllis Webstad and her story from residential schools inspired "Orange Shirt Day". To read about her story (and I do so every day), go to: http://www.orangeshirtday.org/phyllis-story.html 

There will be events across the Cariboo-Chilcotin Region.  In Williams Lake - there will be a flag raising ceremony at Williams Lake City Hall at 8am then an all day event at the Williams Lake Stampede Grounds, hosted by the Williams Lake First Nation - click here. I personally will be attending the Flag Raising ceremony at WL City Hall as well as the events at the Williams Lake Stampede Grounds

Meanwhile in Quesnel on the traditional territory on the Lhtako Dene Nation -- Quesnel Councillor and SD28 Board Chair Tony Goulet goes over what will be happening today in Quesnel - click here

Finally -- if you are able, please attend an "Orange Shirt Day" event in your local community.  Many of the residential school survivors still with us need support from the non-Indigenous community.  Like many, I am still learning about the unspeakable events that took place at residential schools and how Indigenous peoples were treated between the period of the 1870's until the last residential school closed in 1996 and how we can and must do better with our Indigenous brothers' and sisters.... and I will do what I can to build better relationships with the Indigenous peoples in the Cariboo-Chilcotin Region, across BC and indeed across Canada but recognize this will take a lot of time to complete and missteps will be taken in the journey but one that is indeed necessary.... 

~SF

Central Cariboo Joint Committee Highlights - Sept 28th mtg

Present: 

From Cariboo Regional District -- Co-Chair S. Forseth; Directors Delainey/LeBourdais

From City of Williams Lake -- Co-Chair J. Ryll 

Meeting Chair -- Councillor J. Ryll

The Chair waited 20 mins for a quorum to be established for the City of Williams Lake delegation to the Central Cariboo Joint Committee (WL City Councillors Jason Ryll as Co-Chair of the Committee and  Boehm & Bonnell)

The Chair declared the meeting adjourned at 5:50pm, due to a lack of quorum for the City of Williams Lake delegation to the Central Cariboo Joint Committee

Central Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus Highlights - Sept 28th mtg

Present: Chair M. LeBourdais; Directors Forseth, Delainey, and Kirby (via teleconference) 

Meeting called to order at 3:00pm

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on traditional Northern Secwepemc territory

Meeting agenda approved as amended (delete Item 5.2 on the Agenda, at request of Dir. Forseth)

Minutes of the previous Caucus meeting were approved, as distributed... 

Delegation:

Staff-Sgt. Darren Dodge - Detachment Commander of the Williams Lake RCMP appeared before the Caucus to provide an update

A Question/Answer period ensued 

The Chair thanked Staff-Sgt for his time/information

Business:

The Caucus considered the following matters:

1) Letter from Williams Lake Active Transportation Group 

Letter received and invite Group to future Caucus meeting in 2023, following local government elections

2) Discussion Item from CRD Mgr of Community Services re: 2023 Central Cariboo/Chilcotin Economic Development Business Plan 

3) Action Page

Removed Item #1

The Caucus agreed to adjourn at 4:50pm

Ecosystem restoration burn planned for Leaches Lake area

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

The BC Wildfire Service will be conducting an ecosystem restoration burn in the Leaches Lake area.

The burn will cover approximately 227 hectares near Leaches Lake, which is about 18 kilometres southwest of Williams Lake and about 3 kilometres east of Till Lake. During burn operations some road access in the area may be closed or restricted.

Smoke may impact residents near the burn area and will be highly visible from Williams Lake , Riske Creek and surrounding communities, and to motorists travelling along Meldrum Creek Road and Highway 20.

The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2022 and it may continue periodically until Friday, Oct. 21, 2022. Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, though smoke may also linger in the following days.

Key goals of this prescribed burn include:

• Restore open grasslands by reducing encroachment from juniper and conifer trees.
• Improve the grassland forage for future wildlife and cattle grazing.
• Reduce the wildfire hazard in the area.
• Promote the growth of local plant species while reducing the spread of invasive plant species.

Historically, grasslands in the Cariboo-Chilcotin were renewed through frequent, low-intensity ground fires. Such fires prevented tree encroachment, rejuvenated understory plants and helped maintained more open grasslands and forests with large trees.

The reintroduction of managed, low-intensity ground fires to these grasslands is intended to restore and maintain the traditional grassland plant communities that are native to these areas. These managed fires also reduce fuel loads, leading to a decreased risk of catastrophic wildfires.

This burn is part of an ongoing ecosystem restoration program administered by the provincial government through the Cariboo’s Ecosystem Restoration Steering Committee, in consultation with First Nations, local ranchers, local forest licensees, outdoor organizations, Fraser Basin Council, the B.C. Wildlife Federation and the Cariboo-Chilcotin Conservation Society.

Learn more about prescribed burning online: http://ow.ly/20Su50Ax89j

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air-quality advisories, visit: http://www.bcwildfire.ca

You can follow the latest wildfire news on:

• On the free BC Wildfire Service public mobile app, available for Apple (iOS) and Android devices
• Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
• Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Celebrate Fall with 7th Annual Harvest Run on Saturday, October 15

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

Run, walk or ride with us and enjoy some fresh fall air to celebrate the season with the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex’s 7th Annual Harvest Run, Walk and Bike on Saturday, October 15.

The entire family — whether walking, biking, riding or any other form of active transportation — is encouraged to take part in the event, which gets underway at 11 am at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex in downtown Williams Lake with a five-kilometre route.

The popular event is held annually to encourage residents to remain active and healthy all year long. All community members are invited to come out to enjoy a stroll in the city, and all forms of active transportation are welcome, including strollers, wagons, bikes, rollerblades, skateboards or longboards, scooters, wheelchairs and walkers.

Many thanks to Save On Foods and FreshCo for their generous donations of healthy snacks. There is also a fantastic prize giveaway of local produce from the Williams Lake Farmers’ Market!

Participants can play ‘I Spy the Pumpkin/Scarecrow,’ with a number of pumpkins and scarecrows placed along the route, with completed forms eligible to win complimentary family swim and skate admissions from the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex.

The Harvest Run is completely free and pre-registration is not necessary; however, all participants will be required to sign a waiver prior to the event to be eligible for giveaways.

Come on out, enjoy some beautiful fall colours and celebrate active living and some great, fresh local food!

For more information please contact the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex at 250-398-7665.

Tŝilhqot’in Nation and B.C. strengthen relationship

Courtesy of the Government of BC: 

The Tŝilhqot’in Nation, Premier John Horgan and five B.C. ministers gathered on Tŝilhqot’in Title Land to discuss opportunities under the Gwets’en Nilt’i Pathway Agreement to further reconciliation and Tŝilhqot’in self-determination.

The agreement is the framework for Tŝilhqot’in Nation, B.C. and Canada to bring transformative change to the lives of the Tŝilhqot’in people and to the relationship with the Crown. It was signed in 2019, following the historic 2014 Supreme Court of Canada declaration of Aboriginal title for the Tŝilhqot’in Nation over 1,900 square kilometres of land in the caretaker area of the community of Xeni Gwet’in.

“Overall, we had a very positive few days of meetings with the Premier and cabinet ministers. We have had a long-standing relationship with Premier Horgan that extends well before he was premier,” said Chief Joe Alphonse, Tl’etinqox and Tŝilhqot’in National Government Tribal Chair. “In our opinion, he has been one of the better premiers that has led British Columbia. A wide scope of issues was addressed on Title Lands. Governance isn’t just about resource extraction – it’s about our people. We must keep the social well-being of our people at the forefront of the work we do as leaders.”

Premier Horgan and colleagues travelled to the Tŝilhqot’in Declared Title Area on Sept. 21, 2022, to spend two days engaged in discussions on collaboration, shared decision-making, and social and cultural priorities that support the health and wellness of the Nation and the six Tŝilhqot’in communities: Tl'esqox, ʔEsdilagh, Yuneŝit'in, Tl'etinqox, Tŝideldel and Xeni Gwet’in. The event was held at the Nemiah Valley Lodge, which is an economic initiative owned and operated by the Xeni Gwet’in Government. The visit also included cultural activities and community events in the spirit of celebrating the enduring cultural practices of the Tŝilhqot’in people. A community dinner was held where Premier Horgan presented repatriated Tŝilhqot’in baskets to the Tŝilhqot’in people in ceremony. These artifacts are now home with the Tŝilhqot’in people.

“For the better part of 150 years, since the Chilcotin War of 1864, the history of the Tŝilhqot’in Nation and the Crown has been one of denial of rights and promotion of conflict. I am grateful and humbled to be welcomed to the Title Lands and share in the Tŝilhqot’in culture, language, traditions and governance,” said Premier Horgan. “It’s been an honour and privilege to be invited to experience Tsilhqot’in ‘Nen’ (lands, water and resources) first-hand and understand the power and importance of them.”

The purpose of the Gwets’en Nilt’i Pathway Agreement is to bring transformative change to the lives of the Tŝilhqot’in people and to the relationship between the Tŝilhqot’in Nation, Canada and British Columbia. It is the first tripartite reconciliation agreement of its kind in the province.

“The Tŝilhqot’in Nation is recognized for its leadership in advancing Indigenous rights,” said Murray Rankin, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. “This trip has been an opportunity for our governments to continue this complex work together. It was an honour to be here with the Premier and my fellow ministers to meet with Tŝilhqot’in Nation, including those who participated as witnesses in the historic court case, and to see the lands that the Tŝilhqot’in people have cared for and held dear for generations.”

A core principle of the agreement is to support the self-determination of the Tŝilhqot’in Nation. The agreement is a tangible expression of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), which recognizes every Nation has unique and distinct paths to self-determination. It includes a commitment for Canada and B.C. to legally recognize Tŝilhqot’in governance so that the Tŝilhqot’in communities can transition away from the Indian Act on a path toward self-governance.

The agreement commits the Nation and the provincial and federal governments to sustained progress on eight Tŝilhqot’in priorities: Tŝilhqot’in governance; language and culture; children and families; healthy communities; justice; education and training; Tŝilhqot’in Nen (lands, water and resources); and economic development. 

The five ministers who attended were:

• Murray Rankin, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation;
• Mitzi Dean, Minister of Children and Family Development;
• Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation;
• Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General and Minister Responsible for Emergency Management BC; and
• Katrine Conroy, Minister of Forests

Learn More:

Tŝilhqot’in National Government: https://www.tsilhqotin.ca/

Gwets’en Nilt’i Pathway Agreement: https://www.tsilhqotin.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2019_08_Agreement_gwetsen_nilti_pathway_agreement_signed.pdf

Photos: https://flic.kr/s/aHskZCEeeq

Backgrounder here

Cariboo RD has change in its' CAO

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

The Cariboo Regional District (CRD) Board has announced that Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) John MacLean will be leaving the Cariboo Regional District in late October and heading south to assume his new role as Chief Administrative Officer with the Columbia Shuswap Regional District in early November.

"I would like to thank the Chair, CRD Board, staff and the people of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Region for their support during my time here and wish them nothing but the best. It has been my pleasure working with the CRD staff and serving this Region,” said John McLean.

MacLean joined the leadership team in 2017 and his presence and strong leadership will certainly be missed by the staff and management team.   The CRD Board and staff want to wish Mr. MacLean the best on the next chapter in his career and thank him for his contribution to the organization and the community during the past 5 years.

“Whilst I am sorry to see John MacLean leave the CRD, I know he is making the right move for him. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with and learning from John over the past 5 years, and I and the Board of Directors, wish him nothing but the best in his new position with the Columbia Shuswap RD. John has built a great team within the CRD and I know they join me in wishing him well”, said Cariboo Regional District Board Chair Margo Wagner.  “We also recognize that continuity and reassurance for employees is very important when there is change in a top position within the organization, and the Board is currently in the process of launching a formal recruitment process to find the right fit to fill this vital role.

Michael Moses hosts "Meet and Greet" Event in Boitanio Park

 

Yesterday afternoon in Boitanio Park in Williams Lake -- Williams Lake City Councillor candidate Micheal Moses held an "Meet and Greet" with City of Williams Lake voters' to discuss his upcoming candidacy for Williams Lake City Council for the general election in Williams Lake being held on October 15th, 2022

In attendance were:

Williams Lake Mayoral candidates -- Kerry Cook, Surinderpal Rathor and Jason Ryll

Williams Lake City Councillor candidate - Ivan Bonnell (incumbent)

Steve Forseth, recently re-elected Cariboo RD Electoral Area "D" Director (Commodore Heights/Williams Lake North - McLeese Lake - Marguerite/2022-23 NCLGA/North Central Local Government Association President

Roughly about 12-15 people were in attendance -- most from Williams Lake but a few living outside Williams Lake but helping with Mr. Moses' campaign... 

Former Williams Lake City Councillor (2008-2014) Laurie Walters also gave praise to Mr. Moses' campaign and encouraged people to strongly consider him for Williams Lake City Councillor for the upcoming 2022-2026 term... 

More about his campaign can be viewed on his Facebook page (click here) or his website - click here

Today marks 8 days before the start of the 1st Advanced Voting Opportunity to elect new Mayors', Councillors', Area Directors' and School Trustees.  

Finally - there are scheduled "all candidates" forum in Quesnel this coming Wednesday evening (click here) as well as one in 100 Mile House this coming Thursday (click here) however no information yet on an in-person "all candidates" forum in Williams Lake.... 

~SF

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Mtgs - Week of September 26-30, 2022

The following local governments' or Boards' of Education in the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be holding meetings during the week of September 26-30, 2022, as follows:

Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, September 27th at 7pm, via Zoom.  On the Agenda:

* Unfinished Business -- Strategic Priorities and Special Projects Spreadsheet;  Final Revisions of the Official Community Plan (OCP)

* CAO Report- 2022 UBCM Convention

* Departmental Reports

* Verbal Update from Mayor Coleman

View the full Agenda here

Quesnel:

1) Council Meeting - Tuesday, September 27th at 6pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Presentation: Lhtako Dene and City of Quesnel "Reclaiming the Land" Video Presentation, in Honour of September 30 - National Day for Truth & Reconciliation

* Committee Report from Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee

* Verbal Reports from UBCM 2022 Convention Attendees

* Lhtako Dene Park Project Grant Applications - Infrastructure Canada's Natural Infrastructure Fund & Northern Development Initiative Trust's Cultural Infrastructure Fund

* Composition of 2024 BC Winter Games Society Board of Directors

* Childcare Centre Project Update

* MFA Equipment Financing 2022

* New Floodplain Management Bylaw - Public Consultation Report

*  DVP2022-68 - Development Variance Permit to increase signage at 225 St. Laurent Ave (Shopper's Drug Mart)

* Union of BC Municipalities Volunteer & Composite Fire Department Training & Equipment Grant Application

* Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure Active Transportation Grant - "Connecting Waterfront to Downtown"

*  Northern Development Initiative Trust Recreation and Infrastructure Grant - Arena Flooring & Storage

* City of Quesnel Floodplain Management Bylaw No. 1922 of 2022 - Third Reading

View the full Agenda here

The following Quesnel Council Committees' are scheduled to meet next week, as follows:

1) Executive Committee on Wednesday, September 28th

2) Policy/Bylaw Committee on Thursday, September 29th

Should the Committees', as above meet, their Agendas can be viewed here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - 1st meeting of the 2022-2023 School Year on Tuesday, September 27th at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Presentation and Approval of 2021-2022 Audited Financial Statements

* Superintendent's Report

* Report from Committees'

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, September 27th at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St).  Meeting will NOT be livestreamed.  On the Agenda:

* 2023 Budget and Financial Plan Timeline and Direction

* Local Government Relationships

* Notice to go into Special Closed (In-Camera) Council -- Sections 92 (resolution to close in open meeting) and 90(1a/c - appointment/labour) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District:

1) Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Regular Meeting at 3pm on Wednesday, September 28th in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Committee Room (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

Delegation: 

* Williams Lake RCMP re: General Update

Business:

* Letter from Williams Lake Active Transportation Group re: request to join City of Williams Lake Active Transportation Committee

* Discussion Item: 2022 Central Cariboo-Chilcotin Ec Dev Service Business Plans -- items to be included in 2023 Business Plan for this RD Service

View the full Agenda here

2) Central Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting at 5:30pm on Wednesday, September 28th in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  Meeting will NOT be livestreamed.  On the Agenda:

* Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society's 'Fee for Service Management Committee 2023-2025 Recommendations Report'- For consideration of endorsement

* Discussion Items -- Funding of Performances in the Park in Years 2023 Onward (Dir. Forseth); Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services 2022 Business, Financial and Capital Plans (CRD Mgr. Campbell)

View the full Agenda here

Finally - a reminder about September 30th (Orange Shirt Day + National Day of Truth and Reconciliation).  In Williams Lake - the Williams Lake First Nation is organizing an event at the WL Stampede Grounds.  More details here

Cariboo RD Board Highlights - Sept 23rd mtg

Present: Chair M. Wagner; Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, Delainey, LeBourdais, Richmond, Glassford, Kirby, Mernett, Macdonald, Coleman, Simpson, Bonnell and Pinkney   

Meeting called to order at 9:45am via teleconference and audio-livestreamed

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the various traditional Indigenous terrorities in the Cariboo-Chilcotin

Meeting agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous Regional District Board meeting held September 1st, 2022 were received/adopted

Memorandum of Business - Cariboo RD Board was received

Delegations - none

Business:

1) The Board gave 1st reading to Green Lake and Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5408, 2022 (Areas G/L)

2) The Board received the draft 2023 Cariboo Regional District Board Meeting schedule and deferred consideration of a proposed amendment from Director Bachmeier to the 2023 proposed CRD Board Meeting Schedule to the October 6th Board Meeting

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Directors Massier, Forseth, Wagner, Mernett and Coleman

3) The Board received a report of the Deputy CAO concerning an amendment to the CRD’s Remuneration for Election Officers/Officials Policy (No. 2019-5B-28) and approved the amended policy

4) The Board received a report of the Deputy CAO concerning the Memorandum of Understanding for the Hodgson Slide Complex between the CRD, Province, and the City of Williams Lake and endorsed the MOU for signature by the Regional District signatories' 

5) The Board received the Consent Calendar as of September 23rd, 2022

6) The Board received the draft meeting minutes of the Connectivity Committee held September 7, 2022 

At the request of Director Bachmeier - an appointment to the Area "B" Advisory Planning Commission was rescinded

At the request of Director Massier - an appointment to the Agriculture Development Advisory Committee was rescinded 

The Board recessed its' open meeting at 10:26am to hold a Closed/In-Camera Board Meeting as per Section 92 (resolution to close meeting in open meeting) and 90(1a - appointment) of the Community Charter

The Board resumed its open meeting at 10:40am

The Board adjourned at 10:40am

CCRHD Board Highlights - Sept 23rd mtg

Present: Chair B. Simpson/Vice-Chair A. Richmond and Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth (entered meeting at 9:34am), Delainey, LeBourdais, Wagner, Glassford, Kirby, Mernett, Macdonald, and Bonnell

Meeting called to order at 9:30am

Meeting held via teleconference and audio-livestreamed 

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional, unceded and ancestral lands of the Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the CCRHD Board Meeting held on September 1st, 2022 were received/adopted, as circulated

Memorandum of Business - CCRHD was received by the Board 

Business:

1)  Request for a Budget Amendment by Northern Health to Cover Project Cost Increases to the Quesnel Substance Abuse Leasehold Improvements

The Board received a report from the Chief Financial Officer 

Discussion ensued thereon 

Resolved -- That the Board approve additional funding in the amount of $166,800, representing the CCRHD’s 40% share of the additional cost and that an amendment to Bylaw #186 be brought forward to the Board at its October 6, 2022, meeting for consideration of three readings and adoption

2) The Board received the Hospital Consent Calendar as of September 23rd, 2022

3) The Board received the September 1, 2022, Media Release from the City of Williams Lake regarding the two new Healthcare Landing Coordinators

The Board received a verbal report from the Chair concerning his meeting, along with Vice-Chair Richmond, with BC Health Minister Adrian Dix at the 2022 UBCM Convention held at Whistler, BC from September 12-16, 2022

The Board adjourned at 9:40am

New school opens for Quesnel students

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

The new Quesnel Junior school has opened, giving students and families a new, modern space to learn.

“A great school is at the heart of every strong community, and our government’s work to invest in schools is one of the many ways we’re making life better for families in B.C.,” said the Hon. Jennifer Whiteside, BC's Minister of Education and Child Care. “This September, students across B.C. are heading back to new and improved schools. We’re proud of the work we’ve done to provide students with better places to learn, and we will continue to work closely with school boards to make investments that give students the best educational experience possible.”

The new Quesnel Junior school is the first major school project to be completed in Quesnel since 1997. It features a modern design that includes a new learning commons area and flexible learning spaces and promotes an interconnected school community. The new school also has space to offer infant-toddler and before-and-after-school child care. The Government of B.C. provided $52.2 million for the replacement of Quesnel Junior school, which ensures students can learn in a modern and safe environment.

"We are excited to have a new school and thank the Ministry of Education and Child Care for investing and supporting this great new facility at Quesnel Junior school,” said Tony Goulet, Board Chair, Quesnel School District. “As a board, we are excited and welcome students and staff to a great facility equipped to educate them for years to come."

The new school comes after structural issues were found at Quesnel Junior school in 2017. At the time, the Province provided approximately $1.8 million to renovate the then-closed Maple Drive Junior school as a short-term solution to ensure Quesnel Junior students would have a safe learning environment.

These investments are part of government’s commitment to provide students with the best learning experience possible.

Since September 2017, the Government of B.C. has announced $3 billion for new and improved schools as well as land purchases for future schools throughout the province. This includes adding almost 20,000 new student spaces and 32,000 seismically safe seats at B.C. schools.

Budget 2022 includes $3.1 billion for school capital projects over the next three years, including new and expanded schools, seismic upgrades and replacements, and land purchases for future schools.

Williams Lake workshop provides tips on recognizing, preventing avian flu

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food will hold an information session on Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2022, for small flock poultry owners in the Williams Lake area about the avian influenza virus, how they can protect their flocks and how to prepare for potential impacts if their birds become sick.

The session will be led by B.C. government veterinary specialists. Attendees will learn about:

• improving flock or farm biosecurity to reinforce against disease outbreaks;
• recognizing the signs of avian influenza and how to report cases;
• how foreign animal disease regulations affect small flock poultry;
• what to expect if a flock is positive for avian influenza; and
• resources available for non-commercial bird owners, including diagnostic services through the BC Animal Health Centre.

The session will be held at Thompson Rivers University, Williams Lake campus, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2022. Attendees will receive a free biosecurity kit containing tools and information to help maintain good biosecurity practices. Although there is no cost to attend the session, seating is limited and registration is mandatory. Register online here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/410044663627

The risk of avian influenza to commercial poultry farms and small flocks increases each spring and fall, with the migration of waterfowl and other birds to and through British Columbia. The Williams Lake public information session is one of a series of sessions planned for communities throughout B.C. this fall.

Quick Facts:

• Avian influenza is a federally regulated disease, and the CFIA leads the investigation and response with provincial support for testing, mapping, surveillance and disposal.
• Wild birds have also tested positive for H5 strains of avian influenza in multiple regions of the province.
• The Wild Bird Mortality Investigation Program hotline, 1 866 431-2473, accepts public reports of dead wild birds.
• Since mid-April, the CFIA has confirmed 19 cases of avian influenza in commercial and small poultry flocks in communities throughout B.C.
• This is an extension of an ongoing North American outbreak.

Learn More:

CFIA information about current state of avian influenza in Canada: https://inspection.canada.ca/animal-health/terrestrial-animals/diseases/reportable/avian-influenza/response-to-detections-of-highly-pathogenic-avian-/eng/1640207916497/1640207916934

CFIA fact sheet about avian influenza: https://inspection.canada.ca/animal-health/terrestrial-animals/diseases/reportable/avian-influenza/fact-sheet/eng/1356193731667/1356193918453#a2

Ministry of Agriculture and Food information about avian influenza including what to be on the lookout for, resources for small flock owners, deputy chief veterinarian orders, and information about testing: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/animals-and-crops/animal-health/reportable-notifiable-diseases/avian-influenza-ai

WL Council Highlights - Sept 20th, 2022 mtg

Present:

Mayor W. Cobb; Councillors Boehm, Bonnell, Brenner, Nelson, Ryll, Smith

Meeting called to order at 6pm

Video of the meeting can be viewed here

Public Hearing:

1) Zoning Amendment Application - Bylaw No. 2371 - for property at 262 3rd Avenue South

The Corporate Officer read the purpose and intent of the Zoning Amendment Bylaw

The Mayor called 3 times for public input - none received

Resolved - That the Bylaw be referred to Council for consideration of 3rd Reading/Adoption

2) Zoning Amendment Application - Bylaw No. 2373 - for property at 911 Proctor Street

The Corporate Officer read the purpose and intent of the Zoning Amendment Bylaw

The Mayor called 3 times for public input and received 3 delegations on this item and the Mayor noted that letters have been received - either for the project, against the project and those not expressing an opinion

Resolved - That the Bylaw be referred to Council for consideration of 3rd Reading

3) Zoning Amendment Application - Bylaw No. 2335 - for property at 1238 Broadway Avenue South 

The Corporate Officer read the purpose and intent of the Zoning Amendment Bylaw

The Mayor called 3 times for public input and received 2 delegations on this item

Resolved - That the Bylaw be referred to Council for consideration of 3rd Reading

There being no further items for consideration - the Public Hearing adjourned at 7:15pm

Council Meeting resumed at 7:15pm

Meeting Agenda Adopted

Minutes of the previous Council Meeting held on August 30th, 2022 were received/adopted

Matters from Public Hearing:

1) Council gave 3rd Reading and Adoption to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2371, 2022 (262 3rd Avenue South)

2) Council gave 3rd Reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2373, 2022 and agreed to forward the Bylaw to the Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure for approval and that adoption be subject to a restrictive covenant being placed upon the Title for 911 Proctor Street stipulating that ONLY a new manufactured home can be placed onto the property

3) Council gave 3rd Reading to Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2335, 2020 and agreed to forward the Bylaw to the Ministry of Transportation & Infrastructure for approval (1238 Broadway Avenue South - old Shell Gas Station)

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated August 26, 30, September 1, 6 , 8, 9 and 15, 2022

2) Council approved the application to the 2022 Community Resiliency Investment Program – 2023 Fire Smart Community Funding & Supports Program - Stream 1 for up to $200,000 in funding to undertake fuel treatment

3) Council  approved an application to the Forest Enhancement Society of BC - 2022-2023 Funding Program for up to $200,000 in funding to assist in reducing wildfire risk and increasing community resiliency to wildfire across BC

Resolved -  That Staff report back on a grant application to have sprinkler systems installed on rooftops within City of Williams Lake boundary

4) Council ratified an email poll authorizing it to proclaim the day of September 9th, 2002 as “Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Awareness Day”

5) Council agreed to provide a letter of support to the Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin for their application to the Northern Development Marketing Projects stream for their application to support their Cariboo Lottery project.

6) Council agreed to provide a letter of support to the Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin for their application to the Canadian Cultural Spaces fund to support an exploratory review of the RC Cotton site for a future Museum location

7) Council agreed to waive the City’s Purchasing Policy (No. 138) and approve a direct award to Urban Matters for the Extreme Heat Risk Mapping Assessment project for the contracted amount of $89,800.00

8) Council ratified an email poll authorizing it to approve the Salvation Army use of the City owned parking lot next to the Salvation Army family centre to host a BBQ event on Sunday, September 18, 2022 from 12:00 to 2:00 PM

9) Council directed Staff to not award the contract for LED lighting upgrades at City Hall and utilize the budget for this project to upgrade City owned street lighting

10) Council authorized the raising of the Every Child Matters flag on the City's flagpole, pursuant to City Policy, during a ceremony to be held on September 30, 2022 at 8:00 AM

11) Council authorized use of the Victim Services and Community Policing vehicles during the November/December 2022 Operation Red Nose season

12) Council proclaimed the following:

a) "Wrongful Conviction Day" - October 2, 2022

b) "Lung Cancer Awareness Month" - November 2022

c) "Circular Economy Month" - October 2022

13) Late Item - Verbal Report of Mayor Cobb re: 2022 UBCM Convention

The Mayor reported on Minister meetings held at the UBCM 2022 Convention and asked that Council agree to send a follow-up letter to BC's Ministry of Transportation/Infrastructure for a potential funding partnership between MOTI/City of Williams Lake to complete paving works on the City's portion of Dog Creek Road

Resolved - That Council send a follow-up letter to MOTI respecting a potential funding partnership between MOTI/City of Williams Lake to complete paving works on the City's portion of Dog Creek Road

14) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of September 20th, 2022

Council agreed to adjourn at 8:13pm

Declaration of "Elected by Acclamation" or "Election by Voting Required" issued for Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments/Boards of Education

This afternoon -- the Chief Election Officers' for the District of Wells/100 Mile House, Cities of Quesnel/Williams Lake, School District #28 (Quesnel) and the Cariboo Regional District issued notices of "Election by Voting Required" to elect Mayors, Councillors, School Trustees and Area Directors and in certain cases -- a notice of "Elected by Acclamation" has been issued for Mayors in 100 Mile House/Wells and Cariboo Regional District Area Directors in Areas A,B,C,D,F,G,H and L

District of Wells:

1) Mayor (elected by acclamation/Ed Coleman) -- https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=453370146824793&set=pcb.453370200158121

2) Councillors (4 - Election by Voting Required) -- https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=453370176824790&set=pcb.453370200158121

City of Quesnel :

https://www.quesnel.ca/our-community/news-notices/news-releases/notice-election-voting

City of Williams Lake:

https://www.williamslake.ca/DocumentCenter/View/4482/Declaration-of-Election-by-Voting---September-20-2022

District of 100 Mile House (Mayor is acclaimed (Maureen Pinkney) but Election by Voting required to elect 4 Councillors for a 4 year term commencing November 2022)

http://100milehouse.com/sites/default/files/2022-09/Notice%20of%20Election.pdf

Cariboo Regional District:

Elected by Acclamation in Areas A,B,C,D,F,G,H and L -- https://www.cariboord.ca/en/regional-government/resources/Documents/ElectionsandAssentVoting/2022%20General%20Elections/Form%20No-8-12%20Declaration%20of%20Acclamation.pdf

Election by Voting Required in Areas E,I,J,K -- https://www.cariboord.ca/en/regional-government/resources/Documents/ElectionsandAssentVoting/2022%20General%20Elections/Form%20No-8-11%20Declaration%20of%20Election%20by%20Voting.pdf

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin):

https://sd27storage.blob.core.windows.net/media/Default/medialib/2022-declaration-of-election-by-voting-and-acclamation.014b5c5288.pdf

School District #28 (Quesnel):

https://www.quesnel.ca/our-community/news-notices/news-releases/notice-election-voting

Congratulations to those acclaimed -- Mayors of Wells/100 Mile House, School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) Trustees for Zones 1-5 and 7 as well as Cariboo Regional District Directors' for Areas A,B,C,D,F,G,H and L and best wishes to those seeking election or re-election in Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments or Boards of Education...

Steve 

Help shape the future of transit in Quesnel!

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Help shape the future of transit in Quesnel! BC Transit and the City of Quesnel are seeking your feedback when it comes to the future of transit in our city and will be conducting a survey starting today until October 3, 2022. BC Transit is looking to make some changes to some of the schedules and routes within Quesnel. These proposed changes would help address some recent issues and improve the efficiency of the transit system as a whole. Information on the proposed changes and a copy of the survey can be found at engage.bctransit.com/quesnel2022.

Post Event Report -- 2022 UBCM Convention from Sept 12-16, 2022

As is my usual practice following attendance at a Conference, Convention or Seminar....

Here is my Post Event Report respecting my attendance at the 119th/2022 Annual Convention of the Union of BC Municipalities (soon to be Union of BC Local Governments') from September 12-16, 2022 in the Resort Municipality of Whistler, BC- click here

~SF

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Gov't Mtgs - Week of September 19-23, 2022

During the week of September 19-23, 2022 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments/Boards of Education will be holding meetings, as follows:

School District #28 (Quesnel) -- Regular Board of Education meeting to be held on Wednesday, September 21st, 2022 at 7pm in the SD28 Boardroom (401 North Star Rd, Quesnel).  On the Agenda:

* Audited Financial Statement for year ending June 30th, 2022

* Report of the Superintendent

* 2023-2024 Five-Year Capital Plan Submission - Minor Capital

* Committee Recommendations

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake - Meetings as noted below:

1) Public Hearing - 6pm on Tuesday, September 20th in WL Council Chambers.  On the Agenda:

a) Zoning Amendment Application/262 Third Avenue South

b) Zoning Amendment Application/911 Proctor Street

c) Zoning Amendment Application/1238 Broadway Avenue South

View the full Agenda here

2) Regular Council Meeting - following adjournment of the Public Hearing in WL Council Chambers.  Meeting to be livestreamed via YouTube (click here)

On the Agenda:

* Consider Zoning Amendment Bylaws for 3rd Reading from Public Hearing held September 20th

* UBCM CRI Grant Application - Fire Smart 2022/2023 Intake

* FESBC - Wildfire Risk Reduction Grant Application

* Letters of Support - Museum of the Cariboo-Chilcotin 

* Letter from Orange Shirt Society - Request for Flag Raising for Orange Shirt Day on September 30th, 2022

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District- Meetings as noted below:

1) North Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus - Meeting to be held on Tuesday, September 20th at 3pm in the Cariboo RD Quesnel Office (102-410 Kinchant St, Quesnel). On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Quesnel RCMP Detachment Commander re: General Update

* Blessings Grave and Stanley Cemetery Outhouse Maintenance Contribution Agreement

* 2022 North Cariboo Economic Development Business and Financial Plans

View the full Agenda here

2) North Cariboo Joint Committee - Meeting to be held on Tuesday, September 20th at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers/Public Gallery.  On the Agenda:

* Delegations (2) -- 2023 Coy Cup, BC Hockey's Senior Male AA Championship Event Update - Quesnel Kangaroos, Waylon L'Heureux and Indoor Sports Centre Feasibility Study - David Hewko Planning + Program Management

* Quesnel Pool Upgrade Public Consultation Process Results and Next Steps

* North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Business and Financial Plan (guidance in developing 2023 Business and Financial Plans)

* NDIT Recreation Infrastructure Funding Program for Arena floor and storage

View the full Agenda here

3) South Cariboo Joint Committee - Meeting on Wednesday, September 21st at 12pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House).  On the Agenda:

* 100 Mile and District Outriders – Equestrian Grounds Use and Occupancy Agreement Renewal

* 2022 South Cariboo Recreation and Culture Business and Financial Plans - For Discussion

View the full Agenda here

4) Committee of the Whole -- Meeting on Thursday, September 22nd at 11am in the Cariboo RD Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* In-Camera Session -- Sections 90(1a,c,g - appointment, labour and litigation) of the Community Charter

* Policy - Fire Protection District boundaries from local Fire Hall

* Zoning and Rural Land Use Bylaws – Dwelling Definition

View the full Agenda here

5) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, Sept 23rd at 9:30am in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom

On the Agenda:

* Hospital Consent Calendar

* Request for a Budget Amendment by Northern Health to Cover Project Cost Increases to the Quesnel Substance Abuse Leasehold Improvements

* Briefing from Chair Simpson re: Meeting with Health Minister Adrian Dix at UBCM

View the full Agenda here

6) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District - Regular Board Meeting on Friday, Sept 23rd at 9:45am or upon adjournment of the CCRHD Board Meeting, whichever occurs first, in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom.  On the Agenda:

* Green Lake and Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5408, 2022 (Area G - Technical Updates)

* Proposed 2023 Board Meeting Schedule

* Consent Calendar

* Minutes of the September 7th, 2022 Connectivity Committee Meeting, for receipt

View the full Agenda here

UBCM 2022 - Day 5 of 5

Today is the Final Day (Day 5) of the 119th Annual Convention of the Union of BC Municipalities being held in Whistler, BC.  The Convention guidebook and other related material can be viewed here.  For #UBCM2022/#UBCM22 Delegates - today is also Orange Shirt Day!

After the Convention concludes at 12 noon, UBCM Delegates will head back home to their local communities and campaign for re-election (if they have made that choice); observe the election process, if acclaimed for another term or relax for the last 60 days or so of their elected term before heading into retirement or something else...

On Day #5:

7:00 am - 8:30 am	Delegates' Buffet Breakfast sponsored by BC Dairy and BC's supply managed commodities
7:30 am - 8:30 am	Election for Executive Positions continues
8:00 am - 10:45 am	Report on Resolutions Received after the Deadline Resolutions Session Continues
10:45 am - 11:00 am	Installation of President Elect Port of Vancouver Alaska Cruise Prize Draw*
11:00 am - 12:00 pm	Address by the Premier
12:00 pm	Adjourn