Williams Lake Council meets Tuesday!

Next week - only Williams Lake City Council meets on Tuesday, July 4th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St) and the meeting will be livestreamed via YouTube (click here)

On the Agenda:

* Airport Lease #CWL4600 Renewal - Patenaude - Approval

* Various approvals for equipment  or tender awards

* Information only item - CMRC Solar Panel Project (Funded by Regional District and approved by Cariboo RD Board earlier this year)

* Letter from Lois Anderson re 911 Proctor Street

* In-Camera or Closed Council Meeting - Section 90(1b - donation of condition of anonymity) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Future Local Government or Board of Education Meetings in July:

District of Wells Council - July 18th

Quesnel City Council - July 18th

District of 100 Mile House Council - July 11th

Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District - July 14th

Cariboo Regional District -- Committee of the Whole (all day on July 13th) and Regional Board on July 14th

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) -- on summer recess until September

School District #28 (Quesnel) -- on summer recess until September

Federal $$$ coming for CMRC in Williams Lake

Courtesy of the Government of Canada:

Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada announced a joint investment of more than $5.5 million to support seven infrastructure projects in the Central Interior and Northern regions of British Columbia.

In Williams Lake, this investment will support improvements to the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex. It will enable upgrades to the HVAC equipment, including the implementation of a system that will recover waste heat from arena refrigeration for use in pool heating, dehumidification, and air circulation. These improvements will reduce more than half of the facility’s greenhouse gas emissions and improve indoor air quality to provide safer and healthier indoor recreation options for residents.

By investing in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is growing our country’s economy, building resilient communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.

The Hon. Harjit Sajjan said:

“Upgrading infrastructure with modern green technology reduces energy use, provides cleaner air and lowers carbon emissions. Together with our partners, the Government of Canada is investing today in infrastructure like schools and recreational centres so that residents, communities, and nature benefit for years to come.”

While Margo Wagner - Board Chair with the Cariboo Regional District stated:

"“We greatly appreciate the funding for the green infrastructure upgrades at the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex. This supports our continued efforts to reduce the carbon footprint of our recreation facilities, and complements projects we’ve completed throughout our region such as the expansion of solar energy systems"

City of Williams Lake Commits to Achieving Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certified™ (RHFAC) Gold

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake, in partnership with the Rick Hansen Foundation, is furthering its commitment to making Williams Lake more accessible through a series of targeted goals.

During its Tuesday, June 20 Regular Meeting, City of Williams Lake Council approved a framework for City accessibility standards moving forward as a community, including setting the following goals:

• Implementing the steps necessary for all new future City-owned buildings to be designed and built to meet RHFAC Gold;
• Ensuring all future major renovations of existing City-owned buildings will meet Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification;
• Training and designating one or more City staff to be an RHFAC Professional, to support the RHFAC process in City-owned buildings; and
• Encouraging the building design, construction and development community in Williams Lake to adopt RHFAC as other new buildings and renovations are contemplated.

The goals will be included in the City’s forthcoming Accessibility Plan, which is required to be in place by September of 2023. The plan will provide a framework of goals and priorities to identify, remove and prevent barriers to accessibility.

“Congratulations to the City of Williams Lake, Mayor and Council for being the third municipality in Canada to commit to all future City-owned buildings to be designed and built to meet RHFAC Gold,” Hansen said.

“Following my Tour, the City of Williams Lake put up a sculpture of a large empty wheelchair as an ongoing symbol of my dream of finding a cure for paralysis and to making the world more accessible. It’s extra meaningful to me today that my hometown of Williams Lake is reinforcing their promise of making the city a model for accessibility.

“We have come a long way, and there is still more work to be done. By committing to meaningful accessibility for all, together we will achieve the dream.”

The City and Rick Hansen Foundation are also thrilled to invite the entire community to celebrate the official grand opening of a new Rick Hansen Man in Motion Exhibition at the Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin on Thursday, June 29 from 3:30 to 6 pm.

The exhibition opening will feature a special announcement from Rick Hansen and the City of Williams Lake, plus live performances from the Williams Lake Youth Fiddlers and Williams Lake’s own world-famous, award-winning fingerstyle guitarist, Don Alder. A special presentation to Hansen and Alder is also planned, and cake and refreshments will be served.

Hansen, who grew up in Williams Lake, will be visiting the city as this year’s honourary parade marshal for the 95th Annual Williams Lake Stampede taking place from June 29 to July 2. The Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin’s Man in Motion Exhibition will feature a collection celebrating Hansen’s 1985-87 historical journey around the world promoting spinal cord injury research and awareness about the potential of people with disabilities.

“The City of Williams Lake is dedicated to working closely with Rick Hansen and the Rick Hansen Foundation to help make our community accessible for people of all abilities,” said City of Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor. “We have been working with RHF over the past several years to help ensure City-owned buildings are accessible, and are looking forward to continuing to make strong strides toward achieving Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification. As the hometown of Rick Hansen, the City is honoured to help carry on the groundbreaking work that Rick started during his Man in Motion World Tour, with a goal of providing accessible, inclusive spaces for residents and visitors to Williams Lake.”

To learn more about RHF Accessibility Certification visit www.RickHansen.com/RHFAC

Cariboo Regional District releases results from waste management plan consultation

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

The Cariboo Regional District is releasing the final results from its consultation with area residents on eight waste reduction initiatives that were proposed as part of an updated Solid Waste Management Plan. Residents were able to weigh in on proposals to: establish reuse and diversion centres; expand access to multi-unit building recycling; increase commercial recycling; food waste prevention and diversion; establishing landfill disposal bans; expanding user pay; and modifying rural refuse sites.

What we learned:

Just over 1,900 residents participated in the survey which was available this spring. Overall support for six out of seven initiatives ranged from 56% to 80%. The proposal to expand user pay systems was the least popular option, with 52% of respondents indicating some level of support, 7% who were unsure, and 41% opposed.

In addition to the seven region-wide initiatives, nineteen rural communities were asked about proposals to establish rural curbside collection services in their neighbourhoods.

Nine communities were not in favour of the proposed curbside collection service, and will not be included in future implementation plans. The communities include 93 Mile, Ranchettes-Horse Lake-Lone Butte, Pine Valley, Commodore Heights-168 Mile, Fox Mountain, Flett Subdivision, North Lake Side-Lexington, Esler, and River Park Road-Hilborn Road-Quesnel-Hixon Road.

Four areas were in favor of the service, including South Lakeside, Red Bluff, 103 Mile, and Dog Creek Road. Pending approval of the updated Solid Waste Management Plan, these communities would be included in plans to implement the service.

The remaining six areas had moderate support, ranging between 55% and 75% endorsement for the new service. However, because participation levels were 10% or below, further engagement and consideration will be required and will take place during the implementation of the Solid Waste Management Plan. These communities include West Fraser Road, Rich Bar-Dragon Lake-Kersley, Bouchie Lake-Bouchie Creek-Pinnacles Park, Barlow Creek-Ten Mile Lake, 105 Mile, and Buffalo-Gateway.

What we will do with residents’ contributions:

The CRD’s Solid Waste Advisory Committee will review the results and comments from the consultation survey to  assess regional support for the proposed waste reduction initiatives. Once this review is completed, the Advisory Committee will make recommendations to the CRD Board on which initiatives to include in the updated Solid Waste Management Plan.

A draft of the updated plan will be released in Fall 2023 and will be presented to the Municipal Councils for the District of 100 Mile House, City of Quesnel, District of Wells, and City of Williams Lake before being presented to the Regional District’s Board of Directors for approval. If approved by the Board, the plan would be submitted by the end of the year to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy for review and approval.

The Solid Waste Management Plan will set forth waste management objectives to be achieved through the implementation of the waste reduction initiatives in the final plan. These initiatives will be implemented over the next ten years, meaning some services will be initiated sooner than others, while others will be subject to further consideration and planning prior to implementation.

How do I stay informed?

To stay informed and receive the latest plan updates, “subscribe” to our Solid Waste Management Page at the bottom of the project web page, www.cariboord.ca/swmp. Residents, partners, and other interested parties can also subscribe to regular updates through the CRD’s website at www.cariboord.ca/subscribe. You can also contact the Solid Waste Management Division at 1-800-665-1636.

Wildfire-preventing goats in Quesnel!

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Since June 18, a herd of 132 goats has been eating vegetation in and around the Fuel Management Trails and will continue to do so for the next two weeks. Concerns over emissions of conventional mowing and brushing equipment, pesticide and herbicide use, and other chemical effects on our ecosystems, have led many to contemplate “earth-friendlier” options when managing the landscapes we call home.  A safe (and adorable) alternative to many of our fueled and chemical treatments is using goats for grass, weed, and brush control.

The City’s Forestry Initiatives Program has partnered with the Vahana Nature Rehabilitation and its team of goats to help reduce wildfire risk and combat invasive plants. "The goats are moved around strategically to reduce the amount of grass and other green vegetation that will cure and dry and increase the fire hazard as the summer moves forward" says Erin Robinson, the Forestry Initiatives Manager for the City of Quesnel.

The goats will be available for the public to see on Tuesday June 27 and Wednesday June 28 from 9 am – 12 pm and 3 pm – 5 pm beside the Fuel Management Trail parking lot off Quesnel-Hixon Rd.  Owner- operator of Vahana Nature Rehabilitation, Cailey Chase, will be on hand to answer questions.

If livestock isn't an option for keeping your property clear of fire fuels, FireSmart recommends the following:

• Regularly mow and water grass within 10 metres around your home and other structures.
• Prune evergreen tree branches two metres from the ground if they are within 30 metres of your home.
• Remove all combustible materials (twigs, dry grass, logs and leaves) within 10 metres of your home.
• Do not use bark or pine needle mulch around your home as they are highly flammable.

Thank-you to the Community Resilience Investment Program for their generous support of this initiative!

Updating Quesnel's Active Transportation Plan

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

The City of Quesnel is updating the Active Transportation Plan and needs community help to provide valuable input through a survey and interactive map where they can drop pins and leave comments. 

An Active Transportation Plan outlines strategies and initiatives to promote and encourage active modes of transportation such as walking, cycling, and public transit. The goal of an active transportation plan is to reduce dependence on single-occupancy vehicles, improve public health, increase mobility options, and reduce traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions. The City last updated its Active Transportation Plan in 2016. 

The community’s feedback will help ensure that the new Active Transportation Plan reflects the needs and priorities of the community, and that everyone has a say in shaping the future of active transportation in Quesnel.

Learn more at: letsconnectquesnel.ca/active

Public consultation launched in Quesnel to explore housing needs & support services for vulnerable populations.

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

A survey has launched for the public to share their views on the housing needs and support services for vulnerable populations. This project aims to identify gaps in existing services, determine the types of housing and support required, and explore opportunities for joint initiatives to minimize susceptibility to homelessness in Quesnel.

The project is being led by the City of Quesnel, in partnership with Lhtako Dene Nation, Nazko First Nation, Lhoosk’uz Dene Nation, and the ?Esdilagh First Nation, as well as BC Housing, local social agencies, and community stakeholders. A team of social policy and data analysts will be supporting this work on behalf of the project stakeholders. The survey results will provide valuable insights and feedback regarding the state of social issues and housing needs in the community.

Over the next few months, data will be collected and analysed through public consultation and stakeholder engagement which will develop recommendations to the project stakeholders. Understanding the needs of these vulnerable populations will inform the development of targeted interventions to address the root causes of homelessness and create sustainable solutions.

Learn more at: letsconnectquesnel.ca/vulnerable-populations

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of June 26-30, 2023

The following local governments' or Boards' of Education of the Cariboo-Chilcotin are meeting during the week of June 26-30, 2023 - as follows:

Quesnel - Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee on Wednesday, June 28th at 9am in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Airport Update

* Food Hub Update

* Strategic Budget Discussion

* Cariboo Ski Touring Club - Request for financial assistance  

View the full Agenda here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Final Meeting of the 2022-23 School Year - Board of Education on Tuesday, June 27th at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue North, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Report of the Superintendent and Acting Secretary-Treasurer

* Recommendations from Committees'

View the full Agenda here.  Following this meeting, both Boards' of Education for School Districts' #27 and #28 (Quesnel) will be on their usual summer recess until mid to late September 2023 when they will resume their meetings' for the 2023-24 School Year... 

Finally - the 2023 Williams Lake Stampede will commence on Thursday, June 29th.  Full details on a listing of events during the 2023 Williams Lake Stampede can be accessed here

Cariboo RD Board Highlights - June 23rd mtg

Present: Chair M. Wagner/Vice Chair J. Massier; Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais, Richmond, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Paull, Rathor, Pinkney and Alternate Director Funk (District of Wells)

Meeting called to order 

Meeting being held at the McLeese Lake Community Hall (6184 Forglen Rd, McLeese Lake)

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional, unceded territory of the Xat'sull First Nation within Secwepemculecw and welcomed Alternate Director Funk to today's meeting.  Director Forseth provided a welcome to the community of McLeese Lake 

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the Cariboo Regional District Board meeting held June 2nd, 2023 were received and adopted

Delegations Memorandum of Business was received

Business:

1) Development Services

a) The Board gave 2nd Reading to Green Lake and Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5408, 2022 

b) Following a Public Hearing -- the Board gave 3rd Reading to Interlakes Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5423, 2023 and South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw (Area L/Kingfisher Road)

c) The Board adopted the following Planning Bylaws:

* Interlakes Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5327, 2021/South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5328, 2021 (Area L/Renney Road) 

* Quesnel Fringe Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5352, 2021 (Area A/1033 Jade Street)

2) Community Services

a) The Board received the official results of the Quesnel Pool Upgrade Assent Vote conducted on June 10, 2023

b) The Board received a request for sponsorship of the Williams Lake First Nation’s 2nd Annual Speaking Our Truth Powwow and directed that a Platinum sponsorship be provided in the amount of $5,500 from the COVID-19 Smart Restart Funds allocated to First Nations Reconciliation

c) The Board received a request to submit an application to the BC Destination Development Fund and that a partnership application be submitted for $1,000,000 for Troll Mountain Resort to purchase and install a new lift to increase skiable terrain and that the appropriate signatories be authorized to execute the necessary contribution agreements, should the application be successful

d) The Board agreed to a proposed contribution agreement with the Lakeview Cemetery Society to support operations at the Lakeview Cemetery at Roe Lake and that the agreement be entered into for a three-year term and include an annual $2,000 contribution to the Society through the South Cariboo Cemeteries Services function 

3) Emergency Program Services

a) The Board agreed to proceed with repeal of the Quesnel-Hixon Subdivision Erosion Protection Works Services Bylaw No. 4754, 2012 as per the 2023 Service Business Plan Goal and that the unused Quesnel-Hixon Subdivision Erosion Protection Works Services funds be returned to the service area participants

4) Finance

a) The Board received/ratified the Monthly Expenditures Board Summary Report and Mastercard Summary Report for the month of May 2023, in the amount of $1,841,866.64

b) The Board directed that the Cariboo Regional District 2022 Statement of Financial Information be made available for public inspection

5) Administration

a) The Board received the "Consent Calendar" as at June 23rd, 2023

b) The Board received an email from the Coalition of Child Care Advocates of BC regarding Urgent - UBCM Child Care Resolution

6) Committee Minutes/Recommendations

a) The Board received Minutes of recent CRD Committees or Commissions' for meetings held during the period of March 21st - June 12th, 2023

b) The Board endorsed recommendations from the May 2023 Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting, as follows:

* That the report of Stacey Miranda, Director of Community Services, City of Williams Lake dated May 15, 2023 regarding the 2022 Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex year-end report be received; and further, that the increased 2022 operating deficit resulting from lower revenues and higher expenditures at the Complex be accounted for in the 2023 financial plan.

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director Forseth (Area D)

* That the report of Stacey Miranda, Director of Community Services, City of Williams Lake dated May 12, 2023 regarding the Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex 2023 budget report, including an anticipated increase of $206,038 in the 2023 annual operating subsidy requirement for the Complex, be received. Further, that this potential increased annual operating cost projection be considered in the Central Cariboo Recreation five-year financial plan. 

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director Forseth (Area D)

* That the Agenda Item Summary of Darron Campbell, Manager of Community Services, Cariboo Regional District dated May 19, 2023, and attached minutes from the Esler Recreation Advisory Commission meeting held May 17, 2023, be received; and further, that the following recommendation from the Esler Recreation Advisory Commission meeting held May 17, 2023 be endorsed:

1. That the proposed 2023 capital projects for the Williams Lake Slo-Pitch League, Williams Lake Soccer Associations, and Williams Lake Minor Fastball Association be approved, including:
1. the Williams Lake Slo-Pitch League will install fencing;
2. the Williams Lake Soccer Associations will - depending on matching grant funding - purchase a mower; if grant funding is not approved, the associations will install fencing;
3. the Williams Lake Minor Fastball Association will purchase topsoil and seed for field dressing

* That the Esler Recreation Advisory Commission members for 2023 be appointed as follows: Linda Barbondy for the Williams Lake Slo-Pitch League, Brian Hansen for the Williams Lake Soccer Associations, Nick Surette for the Williams Lake Minor Fastball Association, Mark Savard for the Cariboo Disc Golf Club, and Bruce Newbery and Pierre Mayette for the Esler Community Association.

* That pursuant to the report of Stacey Miranda, Director of Community Services, City of Williams Lake dated May 16, 2023, the Boitanio Bike Park be added into the Central Cariboo Sub-Regional Recreation Service.

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director Forseth (Area D)

c) The Board endorsed recommendations from the June 12th South Cariboo Joint Committee meeting, as follows:

* That the correspondence from the Canim Lake Band, dated May 31, 2023, regarding annual recreational pass fees for band members in 100 Mile House, and attached reply from the District of 100 Mile House, be received.  Further, that staff meet with band administration to investigate developing service agreements for Regional District services that may provide benefits to band members. 

* Resolved that Recreation Access Passes continue to be required as per the existing policy for all residents living outside the recreation taxation area and that the number of passes sold to the Canim Lake First Nation membership be tracked.

* That a special South Cariboo Joint Committee meeting be scheduled to further discuss the concerns expressed by Canim Lake Band, once relevant local government/FN staff have met...  

* That the correspondence from Todd Conway, Chief Building Inspector, District of 100 Mile House, dated May 4, 2023, regarding railings at the South Cariboo Recreation Centre, be received.  Further, that the South Cariboo Recreation 2023 financial plan be amended to allocate up to $20,000 for the architectural design and installation of bleacher handrails at the South Cariboo Recreation Centre. 

Meeting recessed at 10:55am

Meeting resumed at 11:00am

Delegations:

1) 11:00am -- Cariboo-North MLA Coralee Oakes appeared before the Board to provide a general update

Following her presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued... 

The Chair thanked MLA Oakes for her time/information ... 

2) 11:30am -- Emily Colombo, Regional Manager of the Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation Regional Economic Operation Branch appeared before the Board to discuss a high level overview of Provincial priorities and programs for economic development, also major projects and trends for the Cariboo Region.  

Following her presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued... 

The Chair thanked Ms. Colombo for her time/information 

Meeting recessed for lunch at 12:20pm

Meeting resumed at 1:05pm

Business, cont:

7) Corporate Bylaws

a) The Board gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings to Quesnel-Hixon Subdivision Erosion Protection Works Service Repeal Bylaw No. 5437, 2023

8) Directors' Items

a) At the request of Area "F" Director M. LeBourdais -- the Board agreed to her request to access Electoral Area F Director Initiative Funds to participate in a Demystifying Robert’s Rules of Order Webinar on June 26, 2023

The Board received an activity report of the Board Chair outlining her recent activities for the period ending June 21st, 2023 .. 

Directors' verbal reported on their recent activities... 

There being no further business - the Board then adjourned its' meeting

CCRHD Board Highlights - June 23rd mtg

Present: Chair A. Richmond/Vice Chair M. Sjostrom and Directors Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais, Wagner, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Paull, Rathor, Pinkney and Alternate Director Funk (District of Wells)

Meeting called to order at 9:30am - Meeting held at the McLeese Lake Community Hall (6184 Forglen Rd, McLeese Lake)

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Xat'sull First Nation within Secwepemculecw and welcomed Alternate Director Funk to the meeting

Meeting agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous CCRHD Board Meeting were received/adopted

The Board received the "Delegations Memorandum of Business, as of June 23rd, 2023"

Business:

1) The Board received the "Consent Calendar" as at June 23rd, 2023

2) The Board received a request from Northern Health regarding the replacement of the Phone System at GR Baker Memorial Hospital; agreed to the 40% CCRHD share of this project of $265,200 and directed Staff to prepare the necessary capital expenditure bylaw be brought forward to the Board at its July 14, 2023, meeting for consideration of three readings and adoption

2) The Board received a request from Northern Health regarding funding request for their SD Wireless Access Network project and agreed to the usual 40% share of CCRHD Funding in the amount of $265,200 and directed Staff to prepare the necessary capital expenditure bylaw be brought forward to the Board at its July 14, 2023, meeting for consideration of three readings and adoption

The Board adjourned at 9:33am

Committee of the Whole (Cariboo RD Board) Session - June 22nd mtg

Present: Chair M. Wagner/Vice Chair J. Massier; Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais, Richmond, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Paull, Pinkney and Alternate Director Funk (District of Wells) 

Meeting held at the McLeese Lake Community Hall - 6184 Forglen Rd, McLeese Lake

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Xat'sull First Nation within Secwepemculecw and welcomed Alternate Director Funk to today's meeting

Meeting Agenda adopted 

Minutes of the previous Committee of the Whole meeting were received/adopted

Business:

1) FCM Convention Attendance (Dir. Forseth)

Memorandum of the Deputy Corporate Officer was presented to the Committee

Director Forseth provided an overview of the memorandum

Discussion ensued thereon... 

Resolved - That the memorandum be received and that the requisition limit for the Area Director Initiative Fund be increased from $5,000 to $10,000

2) Utilities Upgrades and Capital Projects Summary (Mgr. of Environmental Services)

Memorandum of the Manager of Environmental Services was presented to the Committee

Discussion ensued thereon 

Resolved - That the memorandum be received 

3) Presentation from Chief Building Official re: BC Building Code Changes for More Energy Efficient Buildings

Following the presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair thanked the Chief Building Official for the presentation, on behalf of the Committee

Meeting recessed at 12:00pm

Meeting resumed at 12:45pm

Business, cont:

4) Framework Discussion on Public Engagement Strategy (Mgr of Communications)

Memorandum of the Manager of Communications was presented to the Committee along with a presentation

Following the presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued along with discussion ensuing on his memorandum

Resolved - That the memorandum be received 

There being no further business - the Committee adjourned

BC/Federal Gov'ts contribute to disaster resilience for Tŝilhqot’in peoples

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

A series of investments by the governments of British Columbia and Canada will help the Tŝilhqot’in National Government strengthen climate resilience and emergency management for its people and communities.

The Province is providing $5 million to the Tŝilhqot’in National Government for an extensive feasibility study to determine the suite of emergency infrastructure required in the territory, which is located in the Chilcotin region of west-central British Columbia. Infrastructure, such as an emergency centre and evacuation and training centres, will be considered.

“The Tŝilhqot’in peoples were severely impacted by the Cariboo-Chilcotin wildfires of summer 2017,” said the Hon. Bowinn Ma, B.C.’s Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “This funding and partnership is in keeping with our government’s commitment to advance reconciliation and improve emergency management for Indigenous Peoples and is another step in solidifying our long-term and growing partnership with the Tŝilhqot’in National Government.”

Last year, the Province, the federal government and the Tŝilhqot’in National Government renewed the Collaborative Emergency Management Agreement (CEMA), which was established in 2018. The Province is providing $1 million to the Tŝilhqot’in National Government for governance and operations to support the next four years of CEMA.

CEMA commits the three governments to collaboratively develop and implement strategies to enhance the role and capacity of Tŝilhqot’in peoples in emergency management, including a review of infrastructure, operational requirements and other capacity needs.

The development of a proposal for an Indigenous-led regional emergency centre, a training facility and evacuation centres were part of the original CEMA agreement, which was renewed for a five-year term and financed by contributions from B.C.’s Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, B.C.’s Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, and Indigenous Services Canada.

The BC Wildfire Service is engaged in ongoing agreements with the Tŝilhqot’in National Government related to facility and operational co-operation.

Through Indigenous Services Canada, the federal government has committed approximately $2 million for CEMA, including support for co-ordination and planning of the emergency centre, community fire-safety assessments and fire-services equipment.

Additionally, Natural Resources Canada is investing more than $1 million toward the Tŝilhqot’in National Government Emergency Management – Wildfire Capacity Building project, which will recruit and train 20 community members to build capacity and help establish crews in each of its six communities. This project is part of the Fighting and Managing Wildfires in a Changing Climate Program Training Fund to train 1,000 additional firefighters and incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge in fire management.

These funding initiatives are a response to the 2019 Tŝilhqot’in-led report: Nagwediẑk’an gwaneŝ gangu ch’inidẑed ganexwilagh (The Fires Awakened Us) Calls to Action.

“The history of wildfire management in the province has shown us that First Nations are often at the front lines and need to be empowered to manage emergencies on their land. We know what is best for our people,” said Nits’ilʔin (Chief) Joe Alphonse of the Tŝilhqot’in National Government. “We have seen wildfires, flooding and a pandemic that have put our relationships with B.C. and Canada to the test. Groundbreaking agreements like CEMA are needed to ensure First Nations have an active and leading role in emergencies. We have to change the way we approach wildfire and how we fight it. The climate crisis is taking all hands on deck. We are proud to say that we are making progress in the infrastructure needed to be resilient during this crisis.”

These investments also advance reconciliation under the Gwets’en Nilt’i Pathway Agreement of 2019, which brought the Tŝilhqot’in National Government, the Province and the federal government together to continue their work toward supporting the self-determination of the Tŝilhqot’in peoples. The Gwets’en Nilt’i Pathway Agreement is the first tripartite reconciliation agreement of its kind in B.C.

The work done with the Tŝilhqot’in National Government and Tŝilhqot’in communities is intended to inform work with other Indigenous governments and communities, and the broader commitment to improve overall emergency management in B.C. and throughout the country.

Quesnel Council Highlights - June 20th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Gold Pan Council affirmed that the Gold Pan will remain in its current location at the CN Rail train station for the duration of this Council term.

2023 Union of BC Municipalities Quesnel City Council has approved submission of a resolution to UBCM for consideration: B.C. Affordable, Net Zero, Offsite Wood Housing Industrial Development Additionally, Council is in the process of preparing requests to meet with Provincial Ministers at this year's convention, to discuss many topics affecting Quesnel.  Continued priorities include health care, the North South Interconnector, the Johnston and Moffat bridges and Indigenous Relations & Reconciliation.

 

City Agreements Council approved the following agreements: BC Transit Annual Operating Agreement and; Quesnel & District Daycare Society Management Agreement

City of Quesnel 2022 Annual Report Council approved the 2022 Annual Report.

 

2022 Annual Drinking Water Report Quesnel exceeds provincial testing regulations, collecting samples at 16 individual sites bi-weekly, analyzing for total coliforms, E. coli, heterotrophic plate count (HPC), and turbidity and, testing all reservoirs and wells monthly. In 2022, City of Quesnel drinking water was free of contamination by coliforms and E.Coli but, continues to exceed the Canadian Drinking Water Guidelines for maximum allowable concentration of manganese.

Development Services Update Council approved the following development permits, with subjects outlined: DP2023-56 - 3269 Quesnel Hydraulic Road (Riparian and Aquatic Impact Assessment and Mitigation and Restoration Plan) DP2023-55 - Lot 2 Valhalla Road (Proposed dental clinic)

 

Bylaws Bylaw 1948 - City of Quesnel Council Procedure Bylaw 1948, 2023 - Final Adoption EFFECTIVE July 18, 2023 Council meetings will start at 5:30 p.m.

National Indigenous Peoples Day 2023

Today is National Indigenous Peoples Day. A day in which Canadians recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Read the Proclamation of then-Governor General Romeo LeBlanc to establish this day in 1996 at https://lnkd.in/grrvYacg

The Cariboo RD's Area 'D' Alternate Director is Indigenous herself and hails from the Northern Secwepemc (Shuswap) community of Stswecem’c/Xgat’tem (Canoe/Dog Creek) and currently resides in Wildwood, one of the unincorporated communities in Electoral Area 'D'. I'm thankful for her friendship as she teaches me about residential school issues as well as other Indigenous issues as well.

Equally as well - I have many Indigenous friends who have prominent roles working in their own communities and I'm proud of the work they do as I silently cheer on their work from the sidelines

There are events being held today in Quesnel, Williams Lake and 100 Mile House to celebrate this day and I encourage you to participate in your local community.

Finally - Terry Teegee, Regional Chief of the BC Assembly of First Nations writes about this day in the Vancouver Sun & how this day is one for First Nations to celebrate their hard fought successes across the country, from coast to coast to coast — https://lnkd.in/gtXCT3fy

WL Council Highlights - June 20th mtg

Present: Mayor SPS Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Flaspohler, Lyons, Moses and Nelson (via Zoom)

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

Meeting Agenda here/Meeting Video here

Mayor Rathor recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional, unceded territory of the Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw

Meeting agenda approved with the late items to be considered at this meeting

Minutes of the previous City Council meeting were received/adopted

Delegations:

1) Melissa Lapointe, Healthcare Landing Coordinator appeared before Council to provide an update

Following the presentation - a Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor, on behalf of Council, thanked Ms. Lapointe for her time/information

2) Anne Burrill, Urban Matters appeared before Council to provide an update regarding the Extreme Heat Response Plan Following the presentation - a Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor, on behalf of Council, thanked Ms. Burrill for her time/information

Business Arising from Delegations:

1) Council received for information the presentation of Melissa LaPointe, Health Care Landing Coordinator for the City of Williams Lake, regarding an overview of and update on the Cariboo Healthcare Landing Program

2) Council received for information the presentation of Anne Burrill, Urban Matters regarding an overview of the draft 'City of Williams Lake Heat Alert Response Plan'

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated June 8, 2023

2) Following written/verbal presentations on the City of Williams Lake 2022 Annual Report -- Council received and approved the 2022 Annual Report in accordance with Section 98 of the Community Charter

3) Council committed to inclusion of the following goals in its forthcoming Accessibility Plan: 

 Implement the steps necessary for all new future City owned buildings to be designed and built to meet Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Gold; 

 Ensure that all future major renovations of existing City owned buildings will meet Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certified; 

 Train and certify one or more City staff to be an RHFAC Professional, to support the Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification process in City owned buildings; 

and  Encourage the Building Design, Construction and Development community in Williams Lake to adopt RHFAC as other new buildings and renovations are contemplated.

4) Council agreed to provide Resolutions of Support for Liquor Licenses at:

* Williams Lake Curling Club - 800 Mackenzie Avenue South

* Royal Canadian Legion Branch 139 - 385 Barnard Street

5) Council awarded the Riverside Pedestrian Bridge project to Landmark Solutions Ltd. for a total construction tender amount of $745,078.00, excluding GST, for a total project value of $915,145 with contingency and engineering, reallocating $112,500 from the Mackenzie Crossing project and the remaining overspending of approximately $153,000 to be covered from general reserve

6) Council received the submission from the Williams Lake Public Art Committee and approved the selected projects for the matching annual allocation of $5,000

7) Council endorsed recommendations from the previous Central Cariboo Joint Committee meeting, as follows:

* That Central Cariboo Joint Committee Report #03-2023, together with the report of the Director of Community Services dated April 27, 2023, be received and Council endorse the recommendation of the Joint Committee to approve the application for the display of the painting of FARWELL CANYON located on the Chilcotin River done by local artist Brandy Stecyk in the CMRC main lobby, pursuant to CMRC Policy No. 2021-11.

* That pursuant to Central Cariboo Joint Committee Report #04-2023, together with the report of the Director of Community Services dated May 16, 2023, the Boitanio Bike Park be added into the Central Cariboo Sub-Regional Recreation Service

8) Council adopted the following Corporate Bylaws:

* Rental Premises Standards of Maintenance Bylaw No. 2353, 2023

* Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 2354, 2023

Councillor S. Nelson left the meeting electronically 

Councillor Delainey declared a conflict on Items 9i and ii, given her role at School District #27 as the Zone 5 Trustee and left Council Chambers

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

i) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #26-2023, the the letter from Chris van der Mark, School District No. 27 Superintendent, regarding the proposed development of a new Marie Sharpe Elementary School be received; and further, that the City of Williams Lake provide a letter providing support in principle of the proposed plans.

ii) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #27-2023, staff be directed to work with staff from School District No. 27-Cariboo Chilcotin, the Cariboo Regional District, and Williams Lake First Nation to review options for the development of the Marie Sharpe site, including options for a cultural space, an indoor recreation facility, and the inclusion of a larger green space.

Councillor Delainey returned to Council Chambers

iii) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #28-2023, and in response to community concerns about excessive speeding along Eleventh Avenue North, staff be directed to contact the RCMP to monitor the situation and enforce the speed limits in the area.

10) Council received for information minutes of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting held May 24, 2023

11) Council received for information the letter from Interior Health Authority dated June 9, 2023 in response to the letter sent from the Mayor on May 17th requesting the establishment of an urgent and primary care centre walk-in clinic in Williams Lake and the copy of a letter be forward to the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District... 

12) Late Item #1 -- Council endorsed a recommendation of its' Community Services Committee (Councillor Moses, Committee Chair), as follows:

That pursuant to Community Services Committee Report #05-2023, staff be directed to review options and costs for fixing the misspelled name on the cenotaph outside of Williams Lake City Hall (including reviewing the matter with relevant parties such as Williams Lake First Nation, existing family members and Veterans Affairs Canada) and provide a report for Council's consideration

13) Late Item #2 -- Council agreed to provide support for the Williams Lake Curling Club’s application to the NDIT Recreation Infrastructure funding program toward their refrigeration condenser replacement project as well as the Interior Rodeo Event Association’s application to the NDIT Recreation Infrastructure funding program toward increase capital for hosting future events.

14) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of June 20th, 2023 

Willie Dye (2023 WL Stampede Parade organizer) provided an update on the 2023 Williams Lake Stampede Parade 

Members of Council provided verbal reports on their recent activities ... 

Council adjourned at 8:48pm