WL Council Highlights - August 29th mtg

Present in Council Chambers -- Mayor Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Delainey, Lyons, and Moses 

Present via Zoom -- Councillors Flaspohler and Nelson

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

Mayor Rathor recognized that the Council Meeting was being held on the traditional unceded territory of the Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous Williams Lake City Council meeting as well as the Special Williams Lake City Council meeting held August 16th, 2023 were both received/adopted

Delegations:

1) New Officer in Charge of the Williams Lake RCMP - Insp. R.G. Lake -- introduction to Council

Following his presentation - a Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor thanked Insp. Lake for his time/presentation

2)  Rick Miller, Williams Lake KidSport Chapter - "KidSport BC Powered by Sport BC Week" Proclamation

Following his presentation - a Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor thanked Mr. Miller for his time/presentation

Response to Delegations:

1) Resolved -- The Police Commission Report for January 1 - July 30, 2023 from Robert G. Lake, Inspector / OIC Detachment Commander, Williams Lake RCMP was received for information.

2) Resolved -- At the request of KidSport BC in their letter dated August 10, 2023, the week of October 1 to 7, 2023 was proclaimed "KidSport BC Powered by Sport BC Week" in the City of Williams Lake, pursuant to City policy.

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated August 10, 17 and 24, 2023

2) Council received for information the report of the Public Hearing for Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2386 held August 15, 2023

3) Council resolved the following in respect of Councillor Moses' participation on FCM Committees and Forums:

WHEREAS the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) represents the interests of member municipalities on policy and program matters that fall within federal jurisdiction;

AND WHEREAS FCM’s Board of Directors is comprised of elected municipal officials from all regions and sizes of communities to form a broad base of support and provide FCM with the united voice required to carry the municipal message to the federal government; and

AND WHEREAS FCM admits a limited number of non-board members to serve on FCM Committees and Forums;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Council of the City of Williams Lake supports Councillor Michael Moses to serve on FCM Committees and attend Committee and Forum meetings from September 2023 to May 2024; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that Councillor Moses will assume all costs associated with his attending FCM’s Committee and Board of Directors meetings that are not covered by the UBCM Small Communities Travel Fund.

4) Council awarded the Tender for supply of winter sand to Peterson Contracting for the tendered price of $33.13 per cubic metre, excluding applicable taxes 

5) Council awarded the Tender for supply of dried bulk highway salt to Chances Bulk Unloading Ltd. for the tendered price of $217.34 per cubic metre, excluding applicable taxes

6) Council adopted Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2386, 2023 (Glen Arbour - 540 Oliver St)

7) Council approved Development Permit No. 03-2023 from Mark Sin on behalf of Cariboo Park Home Society, to permit the construction of a new 5-story 36-unit addition to the seniors housing complex (Glen Arbor – Phase 2) at 564 Oliver Street

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

* That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #31-2023 and the report of the Manager of Economic Development dated August 16, 2023, Council receive and endorse the BC Healthy Communities 'Williams Lake Age Friendly Project - Seniors Homesharing Planning Project Final Report.

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillor M. Moses

* That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #32-2023 and the report of the Manager of Economic Development dated August 15, 2023, Council receive the proposed budget and business plan from the Downtown Williams Lake Business Improvement Association (DWLBIA) and request for renewal of the downtown business improvement area tax levy bylaw, and direct staff to prepare and report back to Council with a draft bylaw, analysis and timeline for the renewal process under a counter petition process.

* That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #33-2023 and the report of the Chief Financial Officer dated August 15, 2023, Council authorize the following:

i) Staff to organize a public open-house budget information session in February 2024,

ii) Prioritize the water treatment plant for the community and request staff to review options for funding the capital and operation costs    set out in the funding applications re: costs and grants,

iii) Request staff to prioritize projects for grant funding and request staff to target grants for key capital projects, and that plans be established for positions that are currently grant funded,

iv) Direct that staff levels be capped at current levels unless approved by Council,

v) Request staff to prepare a report on the anticipated growth and potential tax implications taking into consideration costs and revenues.

vi) Request the Mayor to appoint a negotiations committee to provide guidance on the negotiations of a new collective agreement for City staff, prior to the existing agreement ending in June 2024.

vii) Request an update profit/loss review in November for the Williams Lake Airport including: passenger counts, fuel sales profits and updates on the airport projects,

viii) Review transit fees in December 2023 for consideration of updates in fees/taxes in 2024,

ix) Target being a debt-free community in 2031 as Council has not incurred any debt since 2011 and it is anticipated that at the end of 2023 the City will owe approximately $5.68M, and

x) Endorse the proposed 2024 budget timeframe and process and require all budget meetings be held in an open and transparent process.

9) Council received a letter from the Cariboo-Chilcotin Child Development Centre invited them to attend the International Overdose Awareness Day event on August 31, 2023 held in Boitanio Park from 11:00am to 3:00pm.

10) Council proclaimed the following

* September 2023 as "Orange Shirt Day Month" in the City of Williams Lake as well as  that Council authorizing the raising of the Every Child Matters flag on the City's flagpole on September 25, 2023 and that Mayor and Council be invited to attend the ceremony on behalf of the City.

* the lights of City Hall be changed to purple on November 16, 2023 for World Pancreatic Cancer Day.

* September 26, 2023 be proclaimed as "United Way BC Day" pursuant to City policy and the lights of City Hall be changed to red

* the week of September 17 to 23, 2023 be proclaimed as "National Forest Week" in the City of Williams Lake, pursuant to City policy

*  March 26, 2024 be proclaimed as "Purple Day" in the City of Williams Lake, pursuant to City policy.

11) Council discussed verbally about withdrawing its' 2023 UBCM Ridehailing Resolution as the UBCM Resolutions Committee has recommended "No Action Required" on the Resolution.  Councillor Boehm will look into the matter and report back to Council  

12) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of August 29th, 2023

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

The CAO verbally updated Council on the recent activities of Staff...

Council adjourned at 7:30pm

Northern BC Transportation Study released!

Courtesy of Northern Development:

The Northern BC Inter-Community Transportation Study has been published to Northern Development’s website. Completed after robust engagement with members of the public, local and Indigenous governments, service providers and other organizations, the report shares feedback and perspectives on existing transportation services throughout Northern B.C.

“Conducting this research and engagement over the past number of months has resulted in the compilation of valuable and insightful information,” said Joel McKay, chief executive officer, Northern Development. “We are grateful for the generous way residents, community representatives and service providers shared their experiences and ideas for future improvements. Through the Northern Passenger Transportation Service, we are already supporting Northern B.C. with meaningful and safe transportation options. The knowledge gleaned from this study will allow us and the Province of BC to build upon the strong base while considering future trends.”

In addition to conducting research with community members and service providers, the study includes a community context lens. The report seeks to share information about how population changes, economic development and other community health and social initiatives may change the needs and opportunities for transportation in the coming years.

“Having reliable and safe transportation options between communities in Northern B.C. is essential for residents’ physical, mental and social well-being,” said Mayor Rob Fraser, Northern Rockies Regional Municipality. “Residents of our community have benefitted from increased frequency of service through BC Bus North, allowing them to better connect with communities to the south of Fort Nelson, increasing ease of access to supplies and services. Public transportation is an incredibly important topic and I am proud that Fort Nelson residents took the time to participate in the study. The Northern Rockies Regional Municipality looks forward to working with the information provided by this study and to any opportunities to improve transportation for residents in the north.”

The Northern BC Inter-Community Transportation Study was completed with funding from the Province of BC, which was announced in May 2023.

While Northern Development was conducting transportation-related analysis and engagement, two other B.C. Trusts were doing similar work, also supported by the Province of BC. The Island Coastal Economic Trust and the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior have prepared transportation reports based on their learnings, which will also be shared with the Province and made publicly available. The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure will use the outcome of these reports, complemented by further engagement with other regions, to help inform next steps for developing options on transportation solutions in rural communities.

Northern Development already supports regional transportation in central and northern B.C. through the administration of the Northern Passenger Transportation Service (NPTS) program, which is funded by the Province of BC. The NPTS funding program financially supports 17 organizations as they operate community shuttle services and BC Bus North.

City of Quesnel looking for individuals to join its' Accessibility Committee

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

The City of Quesnel is pleased to announce the re-establishment of the Accessibility Committee.

The Committee provides advice and recommendations to Council about facilities and other infrastructure, policies, plans, bylaws, transit, housing, employment, and public spaces to identify barriers, issues, and areas of improvement to better support people with disabilities. The objective of this committee is to improve the City's livability, inclusiveness, and accessibility for individuals of all ages and backgrounds with disabilities.

The City of Quesnel is currently looking for community members to volunteer to be part of this committee. We are looking for a variety of people with disabilities and people that support, employ, and advocate on behalf of individuals with disabilities.

Committee Meetings will be held quarterly, and committee members may also have the opportunity to host, participate in, and support community events. These events will be used to promote and raise awareness about accessibility and make sure the needs of people with disabilities are being considered.

The Committee may:

• Conduct research and prepare reports on effective strategies that would help individuals with disabilities to participate in the community more fully.
• Develop and recommend accessibility standards to Council.
• Help to develop an Accessibility Action Plan.
• Examine City information involving current City facilities and infrastructure, programs, public services, activities, and policies, to identify areas of improvement to better support individuals with disabilities. 

If you would like to be part of this committee, please fill out the application form and email it to Laura Long at llong@quesnel.ca, or drop it off at City Hall reception at 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel BC V2J 7J5. Printed copies are also available at City Hall reception.

Quesnel Mayor Ron Paull says:

"I am very encouraged to have the Accessibility Committee starting up again. If you or someone that you know cares about accessibility, I ask that you please apply to be on this committee. I always commend our residents on their passion for volunteerism, and this is a great opportunity to come out and help make sure your community is accessible and inclusive to everyone.”

Williams Lake City Council meets Tuesday!

With all other local governments/Boards' of Education of the Cariboo-Chilcotin on break this upcoming week (August 28- September 1) -- only Williams Lake City Council will be meeting next week 

Williams Lake City Council -- Regular Meeting on Tuesday, August 29th at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  Meeting to be livestreamed via YouTube (click here)

On the Agenda:

Delegations:

i) Introduction of new Williams Lake RCMP Detachment Commander -- Robert G. Lake

ii) Rick Miller, Williams Lake KidSport Chapter - "KidSport BC Powered by Sport BC Week" Proclamation

Business:

* Approval of Council of Appointment of Councillor Moses to FCM Committees and Forums

* Approval of Tenders -- Winter Sand/Dried Bulk Highway Salt

* Development Permit No. 03-2023 - 564 Oliver Street - Cariboo Park Home Society (Glen Arbor)

* Endorse 3 Recommendations from previous Committee of the Whole meeting

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club receives funding from Community Services Recovery Fund

Congratulations are offered to the Williams Lake Cross Country Ski Club for receiving funding of $10,500 for satellite services for onsite programs and communications at their Bull Mountain facility, located just a few mins. north of Wildwood in #CaribooRD Area "D".  This will be another step in their plan to have a wonderful and well rounded Cross Country Ski facility at Bull Mountain

The funding is part of the $960,500 Government of Canada’s Community Services Recovery Fund and facilitated through the Prince George Community Foundation.  More details at https://www.pgcf.ca/news/51/74/Prince-George-Community-Foundation-delivers-960550.00-to-20-community-service-organizations-through-the-Government-of-Canadas-Community-Services-Recovery-Fund?fbclid=IwAR0S8MRkRXTK5V3Aj3TF6bi1oBEi1QYhJc2bP_q31w13lJ3ywWSowFHxyzc

Titetown Area Evacuation Alert Lift (Cariboo RD - Electoral Area "I")

Courtesy of the Cariboo RD's Emergency Operations Centre:

The Evacuation Alert issued on August 7 at 9:30 p.m. for the Titetown Area has been lifted.

An Evacuation Alert or Order may need to be reissued, however, if that is deemed necessary the process will re-commence.

Titetown Area Alert Lift

Alert Lifted and Map
Interactive Map

For more information contact: 1-866-759-4977

Residents must be prepared if the area receives a future evacuation order or alert on short notice.

To ensure public safety, stay out of fire affected areas and obey all warning and hazard signs.

For rural properties that have been impacted by wildfire, residents should be aware there may be danger trees in wildfire affected areas. Homeowners and private landowners are advised to work with an insurance agency to have an assessment done by a qualified arborist on their private property.

Residents are encouraged to register for the Cariboo Chilcotin Emergency Notification System to receive a text, call or email regarding evacuation alerts and orders.

For Cariboo Regional District information, please visit cariboord.ca or facebook.com/CRDEmergencyOperations or @CaribooRD or call the CRD’s emergency information line at 1-866-759-4977, which is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Cariboo Fire Centre Update - August 24th, 2023 at 3:45pm

Courtesy of the Cariboo Fire Centre:

1) Overview

The Cariboo Fire Centre received generous amounts of precipitation, higher humidity and cooler temperatures over the past week, which has assisted ground crews with fire suppression efforts. Initial Attack crews have been successful in preventing the growth of newly ignited fires. Fires that have started over the past week were actioned and brought Under Control or extinguished quickly.

 

One Incident Management Team remains active in the Cariboo Fire Centre, managing the Kappan Complex. The Kappan Complex is made up of the following wildfires; VA1456, VA1462, VA1167, VA1735, G41158, C51571, C11405, and C11892.

 

All open fires remain prohibited throughout the Cariboo Fire Centre and the Tsilhqot’in (Xeni Gwet’in) Declared Title Area Centre to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety.

 

The following activities and equipment are also restricted:

Fireworks, sky lanterns, burn barrels or burn cages of any size or description, binary exploding targets, tiki and similar kinds of torches, chimineas and air curtain burners.

2) Current Fire Activity

Fires currently burning: 22

New fires last week: 4

3) Active Fires

Quesnel Zone: There are six active fires in the Quesnel Zone.

C11290 (Townsend Creek) is 2,785 hectares and classified as Under Control

C11405 (Corkscrew Creek) is being handled with a modified response and managed by the Kappan complex.

C11437 (Pelican Lake) is 4,422 hectares and classified as Under Control

C11499 (Teepee Lake) is 7,864 hectares and classified as Under Control

C12135 (Burgess Creek) is 270 hectares and classified as Under Control

G41560 started in the Prince George Fire Centre, and has moved south into the Quesnel Zone. It is 1,144 hectares and is Out of Control.

G11293 started in the Prince George Fire Centre, and has moved south into the Quesnel Zone. It is being actioned by the Prince George Fire Centre.

 

Central Cariboo Zone: There are nine active fires within the Central Cariboo Zone.

C30399, C31143, C31349, C31442, C31684, C32266, and C32539 are located in the Horsefly Lake-Quesnel Lake area, are classified as Being Held and are being handled with a modified response.

C30446 is located in the Horsefly Lake – Quesnel Lake area, is classified as Under Control and is being handled with a modified response.

C22544 is 1 hectare and is Under Control.

 

Chilcotin Zone: There are six active fires within the Chilcotin Zone.

C51562 (Satah Mountain) is 6,713 hectares and is classified as Under Control

C51571 (Anahim Peak) is 3350 hectares and is classified as Being Held

C51753 is 2 hectares and classified as Being Held

C51974 (Bull Canyon Park) is 1,306 hectares and classified as Under Control

C51981 is 1,400 hectares and classified as Under Control

 

"Out of Control": The fire is not contained, and still has potential to spread.

"Being Held": Under current fire conditions, such as wind and weather, the fire is not expected to grow.

"Under control": The fire is not expected to grow any larger.

4) Fire Danger by Zone

Quesnel - 2 (Low)

Williams Lake - 1 (Low)

Horsefly - 1 (Low)

100 Mile House - 1 (Low)

Chilcotin - 3 (Low)

5) Weather Forecast

Cloud and fog will linger this morning in many areas of the Fire Centre with clearing seen by the afternoon. Temperatures will show some recovery this burning period however RH values will remain humid. Light easterly winds are forecast in most zones as the low tracks well to the east. Generally poor drying conditions are expected today with excellent RH recoveries overnight.

Temperatures will continue to trend slightly higher Friday under moderate Relative Humidity values. Smoke and haze will likely affect the Fire Centre with only fair venting due to the light winds. A low risk of an isolated thundershower will linger over the eastern Quesnel and Central Cariboo zones

West Fraser Road re-opens!

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

People in the Quesnel area can now travel a recently completed new section of West Fraser Road after the old road washed out in 2018. 

“The work done to move West Fraser Road restores direct access to Quesnel and provides a reliable route for people who live and work in the area,” said the Hon. Rob Fleming, BC's Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “Thank you to the workers who completed this project in a technically challenging area. Their hard work supports safe transportation for residents now that the route is much less likely to flood or be washed out.”

Chief Troy Baptiste, Esdilagh First Nation, said: “It has been five years since the West Fraser Road washed out. We are grateful that the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure recognized the significance of this road to the Esdilagh First Nation and the local residents, and had devoted extensive work to restore the road. For the safety of our people, we are happy to have the road reopened. This has been such an important project that we are proud to have been a part of. We are planning for a traditional ceremony once all the final work is completed.”

Along with a new two-lane bridge over Narcosli Creek, the newly opened 5.6-kilometre section bypasses the active slide areas along the old section of West Fraser Road that washed out in 2018. The new section is a two-lane paved road on the east side of Narcosli Creek, improving safety and reducing travel time by eliminating the 17-kilometre detour route that had been in place since the washout. 

In April 2018, high water from the spring freshet caused Narcosli Creek to erode five sections of West Fraser Road on the west side of the Fraser River, approximately 17 kilometres south of Quesnel. The damage was severe, spread over three kilometres, and the road had to be closed.

Final work on the project will continue alongside the road this fall and winter. The finishing touches on the project will not affect the travelling public and will include hydroseeding, planting, fencing, removal of the damaged bridge on the old alignment and decommissioning part of the old road. 

2023 City of Quesnel Annual Hydrant Flushing Program

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Public Works Notices

The Utilities Department's annual fire hydrant and water main flushing program begins on Wednesday, August 23, 2023 for approximately six weeks. This will occur from 8 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday.

The schedule is as follows, however, last minute changes are normal:

August 23-29	South Quesnel
August 30-September 5	Johnston and Carson Subdivisions
September 6-12	Downtown and North Quesnel
September 13-19	Two and Three Mile Flat
September 20-26	West Quesnel west of Baker Creek and Uplands
September 27-October 3	West Quesnel east of Baker Creek

Hydrant and water main flushing cause turbidity in the City’s water system. Residents should expect discoloured water. If you experience this, leave a cold water tap running until the water returns to normal.

For more information contact the Utilities Department at 250-992-6330. Thank you for your cooperation during this important annual maintenance program.

Reducing bear conflicts in Quesnel

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Bear season is well underway and multiple bear sightings have already been reported in and around Quesnel. How we manage our living space has a great deal of influence on the number of bears in our neighbourhoods. Garbage and fruit trees remain the top attractions to bears in the Quesnel area. A bear that is positively reinforced by food is likely to return to that area and repeat its behaviour, eventually becoming food conditioned. If bears are not receiving a readily available food reward within communities, the need for animal destruction will be reduced.

Ensure you take these steps to reduce bear conflict:

1. Do not store garbage outdoors. Garbage can be kept inside a garage or shed if it’s bear proof. Odorous garbage can be kept inside a plastic bag and frozen until garbage day. 
    
2. Remove all fruit from the trees in your yard. Fruit can be stored indoors while it ripens. Let friends or neighbours pick your fruit if you are not going to use it. Determine if the fruit trees are necessary or if they are still wanted, if they aren’t, replace trees with non-fruit bearing species.
    
3. Birdseed or suet filled bird feeders will attract bears through the odours they emit. Birdseed and suet are high protein food source for bears. Use bird feeders only in the winter when bears are hibernating, and natural bird food is limited.

Bylaw Enforcement will be monitoring areas throughout the City ensuring steps are being taken to remove the above attractants. Through Bylaw No. 1774 Solid Waste Collection And Disposal, no person shall set out their garbage collection carts other than between the times of 4 am and 8 am on collection days ($50 fine).

If you encounter a bear, remain calm. Slowly back away, talking to the bear in a quiet, monotone voice. Report aggressive or threatening bears to: 1-877-952-7277 (RAPP).

$5 million funding received for Wells wastewater project

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

People in Telkwa will be better protected against wildfires after an investment by the Province to replace a high-priority section of the village’s water system.

“Amidst the increased risks of wildfires throughout B.C., my ministry will continue to invest in reliable infrastructure to ensure the safety of our communities,” said the Hon. Anne Kang, Minister of Municipal Affairs. “Upgrades to Telkwa’s water system will replace aging sections of pipe, increasing the reliability of the system and improving water flow, so people in the community have the resources they need to remain safe in an emergency.”

Improved access to water during emergencies is made possible through an investment of $650,000 from the provincial government. This will support the replacement of aging pipe sections along Coalmine Road that connect Telkwa’s water-treatment plant to the village’s Morris Hill reservoir, which feeds the south side of the community. The replacement pipe will have a larger diameter than the existing one, significantly improving the water supply through the village.

“The village’s water and sewer systems require major updates in order to better serve the needs of the community and to ensure long-term sustainability,” said Leroy Dekens, mayor of Telkwa. “The village’s priority is to update critical high-risk watermains in the community, which will also increase fire protection.”

Nathan Cullen, MLA for Stikine, said: “People in Telkwa know first-hand how quickly wildfires can threaten a community. Earlier this summer, some residents in the regional district were issued evacuation orders as the Powers Creek wildfire expanded to the borders of the village. Our infrastructure needs to be able to support communities when they need it most. That’s why the improvements to the Telkwa water system are so important. The upgrade will ensure that first responders will have access to water without delays or interruptions.”

The Province is also working with the District of Wells and the District of Hudson’s Hope on two infrastructure projects:

• The District of Wells is receiving $5 million to support the Wells Wastewater Treatment Facility Upgrades and Expansion project, which will preserve water quality, aquatic life and recreational uses of the Will River.
• The District of Hudson’s Hope is receiving $550,000 to support the district’s Kendrick Lift Station Upgrades project, which will make improvements to the lift station to meet WorkSafeBC’s regulatory requirements.

These projects are part of a $450-million investment by the Province in crucial public-infrastructure projects to support clean drinking water, wastewater and solid-waste treatment, as well as reduce greenhouse gas emissions in communities throughout B.C.

This is in addition to the $1-billion Growing Communities Fund, which was provided to all 188 B.C. municipalities and regional districts to support their unique infrastructure and amenities needs.

Ed Coleman, mayor, District of Wells –

“The Wells Wastewater Treatment Facility Upgrades and Expansion Project creates long-term security and sustainability in our community and enables future development for the diversification of the District of Wells and the surrounding area economies.”

Learn More:

For information about the Growing Communities Fund, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/28220

Lhoosk'uz Area Evacuation ALERT LIFTED

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District's Emergency Operations Centre:

The Evacuation Alert issued on July 17 at 9:00 p.m. for the Lhoosk'uz Area has been lifted.

An Evacuation Alert or Order may need to be reissued, however, if that is deemed necessary the process will re-commence.

Lhoosk'uz Area Alert Lift

Alert Lifted and Map
Interactive Map

For more information contact: 1-866-759-4977

Residents must be prepared if the area receives a future evacuation order or alert on short notice.

To ensure public safety, stay out of fire affected areas and obey all warning and hazard signs.

For rural properties that have been impacted by wildfire, residents should be aware there may be danger trees in wildfire affected areas. Homeowners and private landowners are recommended to work with an insurance agency to have an assessment done by a qualified arborist on their private property.

Residents are encouraged to register for the Cariboo Chilcotin Emergency Notification System to receive a text, call or email regarding evacuation alerts and orders.

For Cariboo Regional District information, please visit cariboord.ca or facebook.com/CRDEmergencyOperations or @CaribooRD or call the CRD’s emergency information line at 1-866-759-4977 (Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.).

Two projects will ensure reliable highways in the Cariboo-Chilcotin

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

People in the Cariboo-Chilcotin will benefit from improved highway safety and reliability with two restoration projects that will stabilize roads located on historic landslide sites. 

“Restoring safe and reliable highways and roads in the Cariboo supports vital services and connections for people in the region,” said the Hon. Rob Fleming, BC's Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “With weather patterns changing as part of our new climate reality, building infrastructure that withstands extreme weather in the long term will keep people safe and maintain critical goods movement corridors across the Province.”

On Highway 97 at Cottonwood Hill north of Quesnel, a segment of highway affected by a significant slow-moving landslide will be stabilized. Highway 97 is a north-south artery that provides crucial access between communities in the region and is vital to the province’s economy.

On Blackwater Road at Knickerbocker Road, a road segment affected by landslides will undergo realignment and reinforcement, as well as measures to help prevent future slides in the project area.

Crews at both sites are completing work, such as geotechnical investigations, which includes collecting soil and water samples to inform the project designs, and environmental investigations. Construction is scheduled to begin next year. 

These are the first two projects within the Cariboo Road Recovery Projects program to move to construction. Both are being designed with a focus on resilience to changing weather patterns while addressing stability issues and building infrastructure for the long term.

The Province has approved $538 million in funding for these projects. This includes $334.6 million for the Highway 97 at Cottonwood Hill project and $203.4 million for the Blackwater Road at Knickerbocker Road project.

To learn more about the Cariboo Road Recovery Projects, visit: https://gov.bc.ca/cariboo

Cariboo RD downgrades Evacuation Order to an ALERT in Eliguk Lake Area..

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District's Emergency Operations Centre:

Pursuant to the BC Emergency Program Act, the order in the Eliguk Lake Area issued on August 17 is being downgraded to an Evacuation Alert by the Cariboo Regional District's Emergency Operations Centre (EOC). This area will be identified as the “Eliguk Lake Area Alert #2” by the EOC going forward.

Effective immediately residents are allowed to return to the area.

Full info: https://www.cariboord.ca/en/news/2023-08-21-eliguk-lake-area-evacuation-order-downgrade-to-alert.aspx

Cariboo RD Emergency Operations Centre rescinds Evacuation ALERTS in the Anahim Lake area

This afternoon -- the Cariboo Regional District's Emergency Operations Centre rescinded a number of Evacuation ALERTS in the Anahim Lake area within Electoral Area "J" (West Chilcotin) of the Cariboo Regional District, as follows:

1) Anahim Peak
2) Anahim Peak #2
3) Trumpeter Mountain

Details of these can be viewed at https://www.cariboord.ca/Modules/News/en

Williams Lake Council meets in Committee of the Whole Tuesday!

With all other local governments/Boards' of Education of the Cariboo-Chilcotin on break this upcoming week (August 21-25) -- only Williams Lake City Council will be meeting next week - Tuesday, August 22nd, 2023 in Committee of the Whole

Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole Session on August 22nd, 2023 at 6pm (meeting NOT to be either livestreamed or recorded) in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St).

On the Agenda:

Presentations -- 1) Anne Burrill, Urban Matters re Age Friendly Seniors Homesharing Project Final Report and 2)  Sherry Yonkman, DWLBIA re 5-Yr Renewal of BIA Tax Levy Bylaw Renewal from 2023-2028

Business:

1) Consider endorsing the BC Healthy Communities 'Williams Lake Age Friendly Project - Seniors Homesharing Planning Project Final Report and its' recommendations

2) Consider recommendation to direct Staff to commence process for new 5 Year Downtown Williams Lake BIA Tax Levy Bylaw (2023-2028)

3) 2024 Budget and Financial Plan Timeline and Direction to Staff 

View the full Meeting Agenda here

There will be a Closed Council Meeting following the Open Committee of the Whole Session as per Sections 90(1i/k - legal advice/negotiations) and 90(2b - confidential negotiations between the City of Williams Lake, Provincial/Federal Governments and a 3rd Party) of the Community Charter.  View the full Closed Meeting Notice here

Cariboo RD Board Highlights - August 18th mtg

Present: Chair M. Wagner/Vice Chair J. Massier; Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Forseth, Neufeld, Richmond, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Coleman, Paull, Rathor, Pinkney 

Meeting called to order at 9:47am

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

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the Cariboo Regional District Board meeting held July 14th, 2023 were received and adopted

Delegations Memorandum of Business was received

Business:

1) Development Services (Electoral Area Directors only)

a) The Board granted 1st/2nd Readings to South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5441, 2023 (Area H/2750 Bradley Creek Road). Adoption of this Bylaw will be subject to:

* The applicant offering to enter into and entering into a covenant to ensure compliance with the CRD Shoreland Management Policy with respect to sewage disposal system and riparian protection.

* The applicant providing an environmental impact assessment identifying protection requirements for any proposed development activity and offering to enter into and entering into a covenant to ensure compliance with recommendations from the assessment.

* The applicant applying for and receiving all required permits from the CRD Building Services department.

 

* The cost of registration of the shoreland management covenant be borne by the applicant.

* That the cost of preparation and registration of the environmental impact assessment covenant be borne by the applicant and registered as a priority agreement.

b) The Board adopted the following Planning Bylaws (Area G/7976 Begbie Road)

i) Green Lake and Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5374, 2022

ii) South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5375, 2022

c) The Board agreed to favorably recommend an ALR Application from Area "L" (6850 Fawn Lake AC01 Road) to the ALC Commission ( application for non-farm use)

Resolved -- That the Regional District’s ALR Exclusion Policy be brought back to the Board for reconsideration. (5-year exclusion requests)

d) The Board authorized Notices on Title for several properties in Electoral Areas G,H,L (4 in Area G; 1 in Area H and 2 in Area L)

2) Protective Services 

a) The Board passed Resolutions in relation to a Public Assent Process to acquire a new Miocene VFD Fire Engine as well as a new Interlakes VFD Fire Tender 

3) Finance

a) The Board received and ratified the Monthly Cheque Register for the month of July 2023, in the amount of $2,042,634.23

b) The Board dealt with Year Round Grant for Assistance Applications, as follows:

a) Kersley Farmer’s Institute - $1,000 from Areas A,B,C ($100), D and I in order to cover ALR Research (UNBC Student led) project costs, including community engagement sessions and travel expenses

b) Cariboo Stock Dogs -  $1,000 from Areas "A,B,I" in order to purchase a wireless Bluetooth communication system for stock dog training clinics and trials

c) Likely & District Chamber of Commerce - $1,000 from Area "F" in order to provide food and beverages for their volunteer appreciation dinner honouring all Likely community volunteers

4) Administration

a) The Board granted a Leave of Absence to Wells Director (and Mayor) Ed Coleman under Section 204(2)(b) of the Local Government Act for absences in excess of the amount stipulated in that section as circumstances have required his presence elsewhere.

b) The Board received its' "Consent Calendar" as of August 18th, 2023 

Resolved - That the Board agreed to write a letter of support regarding proceeding with the Quesnel Highway 97 North-South Interconnector Project

c) The Board received a report of the Manager of Communications regarding correspondence from Black Press Group Ltd. requesting the Cariboo Regional District to cease advertising through Facebook and 

Resolved/Defeated -- That the Cariboo Regional District Board support local media by temporarily suspending its advertising on Facebook, and review this decision in one year.

IN FAVOUR OF THE MOTION: Directors Forseth, Coleman and Rathor

Resolved -- That the Board write to the Federal Government and ask it to review Bill C-18 (Online News Act) in regard to its impact on local and Indigenous media 

5) Committee/Commission Minutes/Recommendations

a) The Board received the Committee/Commission Minutes "Consent Calendar" as of August 18th, 2023 

6) Invitations

a) The Board received an invite to meet with the BC United Official Opposition Caucus at the 2023 UBCM Convention to be held from September 18-22, 2023 in the City of Vancouver

Resolved -- That the Regional District write a letter in conjunction with the District of Wells, the City of Quesnel, and the Barkerville Heritage Trust regarding the status of Highway 26.

Meeting recess for lunch -- 12:05pm

Meeting resumed -- 12:49pm

7) Corporate Bylaws

a) The Board referred discussion on Cariboo Regional District Economic Development Services Merge Bylaw No. 5398, 2022 to a future Committee of the Whole meeting for discussion/next steps

b) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption to Cariboo Regional District North Cariboo Recreation and Parks Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw No. 5444, 2023 (Areas A,B,C,I and the City of Quesnel)

c) The Board adopted Quesnel-Hixon Subdivision Erosion Protection Works Service Repeal Bylaw No. 5437, 2023

The Board received the activity report of the Board Chair for the period ending August 16th, 2023

Closed Board Session:

At 1:03pm -- the Board recessed the Open Meeting and convened a Closed Board Session as per Section 90(1c and l -- labour and strategic planning) of the Community Charter

At 2:16pm -- the Board resumed its' Open Meeting

The Board agreed to adjourn at 2:17pm 

CCRHD Board Highlights - Aug 18th mtg

Present: Chair A. Richmond/Vice Chair M. Sjostrom and Directors Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais, Wagner, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Coleman, Paull, Rathor, Pinkney and Smith

Meeting called to order at 9:30am 

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw 

Meeting agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous CCRHD Board Meeting were received/adopted

The Board received the "Delegations Memorandum of Business, as of August 18th, 2023"

Business:

1) The Board received the "Consent Calendar" as of August 18th, 2023

2) The Board received a letter from Interior Health dated July 11, 2023, regarding a new Maternity Care Clinic at Cariboo Memorial Hospital

Resolved -- That all items for receipt be included on the consent calendar from this point forward, rather than requiring their own resolution of receipt.

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Directors' Richmond, Anderson, Bachmeier and Wagner (Areas B,G,H,K) 

At 9:40am-- the Board recessed to an In-Camera Meeting as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter

At 9:46am - the Board resumed its' meeting 

The Board adjourned at 9:47am

August 17th Wildfire Update (Cariboo Fire Centre/Provincial Outlook)

Courtesy of the Cariboo Fire Centre:

Provincial Wildfire Update -- https://blog.gov.bc.ca/bcwildfire/provincial-wildfire-status-update-august-17-2023/

1) Overall Picture

The ridge that has been producing warm and dry conditions provincially will begin to break down today. Due to this there will be a cold dry front that will sweep across the province creating high winds and a potential for dry lightning. These factors mean that fire activity is likely to increase, and public may see an increase in smoke. To see a map of smoke travelling through the region, please visit here. With the anticipated shift in weather, initial attack crews are in place and ready to respond as needed.

 

The Kappan Complex remains established within the Cariboo and is made up of the following wildfires; VA1456, VA1462, VA1167, VA1735, G41158, C51571, G41165, G41189, C11892 and C11405.

 

All open fires remain prohibited throughout the Cariboo Fire Centre and the Tsilhqot’in (Xeni Gwet’in) Declared Title Area Centre to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety.

 

The following activities and equipment are also restricted:

Fireworks, sky lanterns, burn barrels or burn cages of any size or description, binary exploding targets, tiki and similar kinds of torches, chimineas and air curtain burners.

2) Fire Centre Activity

Fires currently burning: 21

New fires last week: 0

3) Active Wildfires

There are 21 active fires in the Cariboo Fire Centre.

 

Quesnel Zone: There are seven active fires in the Quesnel Zone.

C11290 (Townsend Creek) is 2,785 hectares and classified as Under Control.

C11405 (Corkscrew Creek) is 1,282 hectares and classified as Under Control. It is being handled with a modified response and managed by the Kappan Complex.

C11437 (Pelican Lake) is 4,422 hectares and classified as Under Control.

C11499 (Teepee Lake) is 7,864 hectares and classified as Being Held.

C11892 (Irene Lake) is 342 hectares. It is classified as Being Held and managed by the Kappan Complex.

C12135 (Burgess Creek) is 270 hectares and classified as Under Control.

G41560 started in the Prince George Fire Centre, and has moved south into the Cariboo Fire Centre's Quesnel Zone. It is 1,026 hectares and is Out of Control.

 

Central Cariboo Zone: There are nine active fires within the Central Cariboo Zone.

C30399, C31143, C31349, C31442, C31684, C32266 and C32539 are located in the Horsefly Lake-Quesnel Lake area, are classified as Being Held and are being handled with a modified response.

C30446 is located in the Horsefly Lake – Quesnel Lake area, classified as Under Control, and is being handled with a modified response.

C22544 is 1 hectare and is Under Control.

 

Chilcotin Zone: There are five active fires within the Chilcotin Zone.

C51562 (Satah Mountain) is 6,713 hectares and is classified as Under Control

C51571 (Anahim Peak) is 3350 hectares and is classified as Being Held

C51753 is 2 hectares and classified as Being Held

C51974 (Bull Canyon Park) is 1,306 hectares and classified as Under Control

C51981 is 1,400 hectares and classified as Under Control

 

"Out of Control": The fire is not contained, and still has potential to spread.

"Being Held": Under current fire conditions, such as wind and weather, the fire is not expected to grow.

"Under control": The fire is not expected to grow any larger

4) Fire Danger Rating by Zone

a) Quesnel - Moderate to High

b) Williams Lake - Moderate to High

c) Horsefly - Moderate to High

d) 100 Mile House - Moderate to High

e) Chilcotin - High

5) Weather Forecast

Lower temperatures, but strong and gusty north to northwest winds and high ISI values are expected in the northern zones of the Fire Centre. Strong and gusty winds will spread south during the afternoon, affecting all zones by late afternoon and will persist into the overnight period and Friday morning. A slight risk of a few isolated thundershowers in the Fire Centre by late afternoon. Winds are expected to remain stronger and gusty overnight. Stronger northwest winds may linger in the 100 Mile Zone Friday morning and into the early afternoon. The risk of widely scattered thundershowers is also forecast to increase Friday, particularly in zones east of the Fraser.

6) Current Wildfire Prohibitions 

No Open Fires allowed

Forest Use Restrictions (Backcountry use) NOT in place currently 

Further updates on wildfires in the Cariboo Fire Centre can be accessed at https://wildfiresituation.nrs.gov.bc.ca/map

Quesnel Council Highlights - August 15th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Housing Accelerator Grant

Council approved application to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) Housing Accelerator Small/Rural/North/Indigenous grant funding stream for up to $3,700,000 to implement initiatives that will increase the housing supply in Quesnel.

Cariboo Gur Sikh Temple

The Cariboo Gur Sikh Temple at 431 Lewis Drive will be added to the Quesnel Heritage Register for its significance as a spiritual and social gathering space and to recognize the importance of the Sikh community in the development of Quesnel.

Local Government Climate Action Program Annual Report

Source of Greenhouse gases	2022	2021	Variance
Electricity	54.24	55.08	-0.84	-2%
Natural Gas	570.99	465.62	105.37	23%
Propane	0.61	1.46	-0.85	-58%
Diesel (including contractors)	599.54	447.59	151.95	34%
Gasoline	213.23	197.63	15.60	8%
TOTAL	1438.61	1167.38	271.23	23.2%

*The increase in Natural Gas was due to the new Public Works building, and diesel was up due to it being a heavier snow year.

Accessible Quesnel

Council will re-establish the Accessibility Committee and, will be asking for applications to sit on the committee from a diverse group of interested community members with disabilities.  There will not be a big time commitment but the value will be seen throughout the City.

If you would like to participate, follow the City facebook page or subscribe to our newsletter where we will post the application.