Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of October 3-6, 2023

The following local governments' of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be holding meetings next week (October 3-6, 2023)

Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday October 3rd at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers/Zoom (4243 Sanders Avenue).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Quesnel - Meetings as noted below

1) Public Safety Committee on Tuesday, Oct 3rd at 9am in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Emergency Response - Discussion Item

2) Policy/Bylaw Committee - Thursday, Oct 5th.  When available, Committee Agenda is here

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake - Meetings as noted below:

1) Special Committee of the Whole - October 3rd at 12pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

*  Cariboo Regional District Solid Waste Management Plan Options and Cost Update

View the full Agenda here

2) Special Council Meeting - October 3rd at 5pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St).  Meeting to be a Closed/In-Camera Session as per Section 90(1i,1k/2b - legal advice, negotiations and confidential negotiations with the City of Williams Lake; Provincial/Federal Governments and a 3rd Party) of the Community Charter.  View the Closed Meeting Notice here

3) Regular Council Meeting - October 3rd at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  Meeting to be livestreamed via YouTube (click here).  On the Agenda:

Delegations -- 

* Darlene Doucette, Williams Lake Royal Purple re "Purple Thursday" Proclamation & Lighting Requests

* Denise Deschene & Ruth Lloyd, Go By Bike Williams Lake and Streets for All Williams Lake re "Fall Go By Bike Weeks" Proclamation Request

Business -- 

* 3-Year Transit Expansion Initiatives

* Business Improvement Area (BIA) Tax Levy Bylaw Renewal - Bylaw No. 2397 (for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings)

* Williams Lake Stampede Parade - 2023 Expressions of Interest Report

* Report from In-Camera -- Appointment of Kim Herdman to the City's Accessibility Advisory Committee

View the full Agenda here

State of Local Emergency Declared for 500 Wotzke Drive

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

As a precautionary measure, the City of Williams Lake has declared a State of Local Emergency (SOLE) due to potential land movement at 500 Wotzke Drive, known as Terra Ridge. 

On September 15, 2023, the City of Williams Lake activated its Emergency Operations Centre at Level 1 in response to an engineering report procured by the Terra Ridge strata. Out of an abundance of caution, four units at Terra Ridge were issued a “do not occupy” order and have been receiving Emergency Support Services.

Today, September 29, an evacuation order was issued for the same four units, and an evacuation alert has been placed on the remaining Terra Ridge properties.

The SOLE allows the City to undertake emergency measures to respond to and limit any damages to health safety and property to the community. 

The City has notified all relevant agencies and is working with Emergency Management BC to address the situation as it evolves.

The City will continue to monitor the situation from its Emergency Operations Centre and will provide updates as they are available.

To reach the Emergency Operations Centre please call 250-392-4321 Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Quesnel Council Highlights - Sept 26th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Annual Council Meeting Schedule - 2024 Council approved the following meeting schedule for 2024, which will be posted at City Hall public posting areas and advertised in the local newspaper. January 16, 30 February 6, 20 March 5, 19 April 2, 23, 30 May 21 June 4, 25 July 30 August 27 September 24 October 1, 22 *November 5, 6 - Strategic Planning November 26 December 17

Development Services Update Council approved the following: Development Permit for a secondary suite in the floodplain - 878 Rolph Street Development Variance Permit to allow an accessory building in the mobile home park - #82 - 313 Westland Road

 

Heat Alert Response Plan  Council approved the Heat Alert Response Plan which will be reviewed by the Emergency Management Committee and Public Safety and Policing Committee to action the recommendations. Website Link: Heat Alert Response Plan

Bylaws Bylaw 1951 - City of Quesnel Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw 1951, 2023 - First & Second Readings Schedule A - List of organizations

 

National Day for Truth & Reconciliation - Orange Shirt Day Saturday, September 30, 2023 Events hosted by Lhtako Dene Nation starting with a prayer at 11:00 am at Lhtako Dene Park

Cariboo RD Board Highlights - September 28th mtg

Present: Vice Chair J. Massier; Directors Sjostrom, Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais, Richmond, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Coleman, Paull, Rathor, Pinkney and Area "H" Alternate Director Chris Cummings

Meeting called to order at 9:45am

The Vice-Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional, unceded territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw and welcomed Alternate Director Chris Cummings from Electoral Area "H" to today's Board meeting and read out a statement in relation to the upcoming National Day of Truth and Reconciliation to be held on Saturday, September 30th

The Vice-Chair also acknowledged the passing of former Electoral Area "D" Director Sue Zacharias who served on the Cariboo Regional District Board of Directors' from 2005-2008 and then again for the City of Williams Lake from 2009-2012

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the Cariboo RD Board meeting held September 8th, 2023 were received/adopted

The Board received the "Delegations Memorandum of Business" as of September 8th, 2023

Business:

1) Development Services

a) The Board adopted Interlakes Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5371, 2022 and South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5372, 2022 (Area L/8117 Bridge Lake North Road)

b) The Board agreed to forward the Provincial Agricultural Land Commission application for subdivision, pertaining to District Lot 8853, Cariboo District, Except Plans 29337, PGP37533, PGP37933, PGP39646, PGP41981 and BCP8399 for property on Mile 168 Road in Electoral Area "D"

2) Emergency Programs 

a) The Board authorized Staff to proceed with an FireSmart application of up to $312,700 under the 2023 UBCM CRI FireSmart Community Funding and Supports Stream

3) Finance

a) The Board authorized a request from the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 261 Forest Grove for a permissive tax exemption and Staff were directed to prepare the necessary bylaw

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Directors Forseth, Pinkney (Area D, 100 Mile House)

b) The Board authorized Year Round Grant for Assistance applications, as follows:

a) Miocene Community Hall -- $1,000 from Area "F"

b) 100 Mile Repair Cafe -- $1,000 divided equally from Areas G,H,L

4) Administration

a) The Board received a DRAFT 2024 Board Calendar for discussion and was subsequently approved

b) The Board received the Consent Calendar as of September 28th, 2023

RESOLVED -- That the topic of SD27 Bursaries' be referred to a future Committee of the Whole meeting

c) The Board received the Committee/Commission Meeting Minutes Consent Calendar as of September 28th, 2023

d) The Board endorsed recommendations of Committees' or Commissions',. as follows:

i) South Cariboo Joint Committee - September 11th meeting

* That the memo from R. Scott, dated September 7, 2023, regarding the Outdoor Rink Cost Estimate be received. Further, that the project be included in the 2024 South Cariboo Recreation Business Plan for the design, cost estimate and potential construction to be located in the South Cariboo Recreation Centre overflow parking area.

ii) Committee of the Whole - September 7th meeting

* That up to $30,000 of the Growing Communities Funds be allocated for repairs to the Welcome to the Cariboo Regional District sign north of Quesnel.

* That $175,000 of the Growing Communities Funds be allocated to IT Enhancements and $150,000 of the Growing Communities Funds be allocated to Asset Management  Software.

* That $350,000 of the Growing Communities Funds be allocated to  Administrative support.

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Director Forseth (Area "D")

* That staff bring forward a report regarding video conference options for the Cariboo Regional District Board room for consideration during 2024 budget discussions

5) Directors' Items

a) At the request of Directors' Forseth, Neufeld and Anderson (Areas D,E,K) -- the Board authorized use of Electoral Area Director Initiative Funds to attend the CCCTA Summit that is taking place in Williams Lake from November 15-17, 2023 as well as purchase of the "Prospector” sponsorship package with funding to be allocated from the Central Cariboo-Chilcotin Economic Development Function 

The Board received the activity report of Chair Wagner 

Directors' provided verbal reports on their recent activities

At 11:20am -- the meeting recessed 

At 11:30am - the meeting resumed

Closed Board Session:

At 11:30am -- the Board recessed to hold a Closed Board Session as per Section 92 and 90(1a,e,l - appointment, land and strategic planning) of the Community Charter

At 11:40am -- the Board resumed its Open Meeting 

The Board adjourned at 11:40am

Cariboo RD Evacuation ALERTS rescinded at Twist Creek, Hell Raving Creek and Horn Lake areas

Yesterday -- the Cariboo Regional District's Emergency Operations Centre rescinded a number of Evacuation ALERTS, as follows:

i) Twist Creek Area -- https://www.cariboord.ca/en/news/2023-09-27-twist-creek-area-evacuation-alert-lift.aspx

ii) Hell Raving Creek -- https://www.cariboord.ca/en/news/2023-09-27-hell-raving-creek-area-evacuation-alert-lift.aspx

iii) Horn Lake Area -- https://www.cariboord.ca/en/news/2023-09-27-horn-lake-area-evacuation-alert-lift.aspx

~Steve 

Central Cariboo Joint Committee Highlights - Sept 27th mtg

Present from CRD -- Co-Chair (Director) S. Forseth; Directors Neufeld/LeBourdais

Present from City of WL -- Co-Chair (Mayor) SPS Rathor; Councillor Lyons

In the Chair: Co-Chair SPS Rathor

Meeting called to order at 5:30pm

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

Meeting Agenda adopted 

Minutes of the Committee meeting held on May 24th, 2023 as well as the Special Committee meeting held on July 19th, 2023 were both received/adopted

Business:

1) The Committee received the Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society's '2023 Q2/Q3 and Performances in the Park Report for 2023

2) The Committee received an Information Item - CCACS Exploring Mural Installation on Outside of Arts Centre

3) The Committee received an Information Item - CMRC Solar Panel Project Update

4) The Committee received a Staff Report concerning CMRC Fees and Charges 2024-2026 and after some time, resolved -- 

That the report of Kaitlyn Atkinson, Manager of Recreation and Leisure Services, City of Williams Lake dated September 11, 2023 regarding the proposed CMRC 2024-2026 fees and charges be received; the Committee authorize a 3% increase in user fees and Staff prepare the necessary bylaw

5) The Committee discussed the following matters -- 

a) City of Williams Lake's Williams Lake Age Friendly Project 'Seniors Homesharing Planning Project Final Report' dated July 7, 2023 (per Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus)

b) Williams Lake RCMP Detachment Operational Priorities between Williams Lake and CRD Areas D, E and F (per Co-Chairs)

c) Joint Planning with School District No. 27, City and CRD for Proposed Indoor Turf Facility (per Co-Chairs)

d) Williams Lake & Area Community Wildfire Protection Plan (per Co-Chairs)

6) The Committee received its' Action Page as of Sept 27th, 2023

The Committee adjourned at 7:45pm

Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus Highlights - Sept 27th mtg

Present: Chair M. Neufeld; Directors Forseth, LeBourdais, Pare and Anderson

Meeting called to order at 3:00pm

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

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the previous Caucus Meeting was received/adopted

Delegation:

Inspector Robert Lake, Williams Lake RCMP Detachment Commander was in attendance to provide an update on RCMP activities in the Central Cariboo-Chilcotin Electoral Areas

Following his presentation to Caucus -- a Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair thanked Insp. Lake for his time/information

Business:

1) Caucus held a discussion on the following matters:

i) City of Williams Lake/CRD Memorandum of Understanding

ii) CRD Grants for Assistance Policy (Year Round Grant Intake)

Afterwards, the following was resolved:

Resolved -- That Staff provide an update report on progress on a renewed City of Williams Lake/CRD Memorandum of Understanding at the November Rural Caucus meeting

2) Caucus received the Action Page as of September 27th 

Caucus adjourned at 3:47pm

Physician assistants are one step closer to joining B.C.’s health-care workforce

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Physicians and patients may soon have another resource in health care as consultation begins on bylaw changes to enable physician assistants to work in emergency departments in British Columbia.

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia (CPSBC), in consultation with the Ministry of Health, has posted the proposed bylaw changes online for public consultation and feedback within the next seven days. If approved, the amended bylaw will allow physician assistants to practise in emergency departments under the direction and supervision of physicians and will require them to register with the CPSBC.

“The Ministry of Health has been working with the College of Physicians and Surgeons to introduce physician assistants into B.C.’s emergency departments,” said the Hon. Adrian Dix, BC's Minister of Health. “This will support health-care workers to provide services to patients and help patients access the services they need as we continue to build out team-based care across the health-care system.”

Physician assistants work under the direction and supervision of physicians to provide a broad range of health services, including performing patient exams, ordering laboratory and diagnostic tests, prescribing medications, managing treatment plans, and advising patients on preventative care and optimal health practices.

“The College of Physicians and Surgeons of B.C. is pleased to be asked to license and regulate physician assistants,” said Dr. Heidi Oetter, registrar and CEO, CPSBC. “Physician assistants working in emergency departments will increase the workforce that provides emergency services and improve access to care for patients. The college joins its peers across Canada including the colleges in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Manitoba and Alberta in licensing and regulating physician assistants.”

There are currently three physician-assistant training programs in Canada and training generally takes 24-months. Graduates are then eligible to write the certification exam from the Physician Assistant Certification Council of Canada to practise in the country. It is estimated that there are approximately 30 to 50 physician assistants living in British Columbia. 

Expanding the scope of health-care professionals is part of the B.C.’s Health Human Resources Strategy. The strategy supports patients by ensuring they get the health services they need and are cared for by a healthy workforce. It focuses on 70 key actions to retain, recruit and train health-care workers, while redesigning the health-care system to foster workplace satisfaction and innovation.

Actions taken to build out team-based care for patients around British Columbia include the recent licensing of associate physicians, the expanded scope of practice for pharmacists to prescribe for 21 minor ailments, the tripling of nurse practitioners, the new payment model for family physicians, the new collective agreement with nurses, the building of a second medical school at Simon Fraser University, the increase of 602 new nurse training seats in B.C. and the building of primary-care networks.

Learn More:

To view the proposed amended bylaw and provide feedback, visit: https://www.cpsbc.ca/about/laws-and-legislation/bylaw-amendments

To learn more about B.C.’s Health Human Resources Strategy, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BCHealthHumanResourcesStrategy-Sept2022.pdf

To learn more about the associate physician program and the practice-ready assessment program, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2022HLTH0067-001799

To learn more about the College of Physicians and Surgeons of B.C., visit: https://www.cpsbc.ca/

New vision connects rural B.C. to a stronger future

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

The B.C. government has released StrongerBC: Good Lives in Strong Communities, a new vision that outlines investments to help build a brighter future for rural communities and the people who call them home.

“If you’re looking for people to help cut through the noise and get a job done, my bet will always be on the people who call rural B.C. home,” said BC Premier David Eby. “That’s why I’m proud to have so many rural British Columbians on our government team. Together, working with community members, this vision for rural B.C. will connect people to the opportunities and services that will help them build a good life in the communities they love.”

The vision focuses on concrete actions to make life better for rural British Columbians – including delivering high-speed internet to every community, helping goods and people move, and bringing more rural expertise and perspectives to government.

“Our vision is deeply rooted in respect for place. The challenges faced by rural places are different than those in urban centres, but all B.C. communities deserve the opportunity to thrive. Unique challenges, coupled with unique local solutions, require flexible support from the province,” said Roly Russell, Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Development. “These investments are a key part of our larger strategy to building strong and diverse rural economies, because we know that when rural communities thrive, it puts us all on the path to a brighter future.”

Another key focus of the new vision is enhancing people’s access to quality health care when they need it. An initial investment of $20 million to enhance medical-travel supports provided by the Canadian Cancer Society and Hope Air will support more people in rural and remote areas who need to travel for cancer care. Through this investment, more people will be able to travel and get cancer treatment in one of the six BC Cancer Centres or at one of the 41 Community Oncology Network sites throughout B.C.

“The size and landscape of the province can make it challenging to deliver health care in rural communities,” said Jennifer Rice, Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Health. “Some medical procedures are best delivered by specialists at dedicated medical centres that provide specialized care far from many communities. That’s why we’re going to help cover travel-related costs – including transportation, accommodation and meals – during a patient’s cancer treatment.”

Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples is a thread that runs throughout the new vision. Many of the actions and investments support the Declaration Act Action Plan, a cross-government action plan that guides the Province’s work to implement the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in B.C.

Learn More: 

StrongerBC for everyone – Investing in a bright future for rural communities

https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Good-Lives-Strong-Communities-2023.pdf

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of September 25-29, 2023

Following a long week in Vancouver attending the 2023 Union of BC Municipalities Convention --Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments' and Boards' of Education resume their meetings during the week of September 25-29, 2023 - as follows:

Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, September 26th at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue) or via Zoom.  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Quesnel -- Meetings as noted below, all in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St):

i) Regular Council Meeting at 5:30pm on Tuesday, September 26th.  On the Agenda:

* Committee Reports

* 2024 Annual Council Meeting Schedule (approve Council Meeting Schedule only)

* City of Quesnel Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw 1951, 2023 - First & Second Readings 

* Development Permit 2023-60 – 878 Rolph St. Secondary Suite addition & Floodplain development permit review

* Development Variance Permit 2023-70 - #82-313 Westland Rd. Variance for an accessory building

* Heat Alert Response Plan

View the full Meeting Agenda here.  Following the Open meeting, Quesnel Council will immediately convene a Closed Council Meeting as per Sections 90(1c,e,k - labour, land, negotiations) and 90(2b - confidential negotiations between City of Quesnel, provincial/federal governments' and a 3rd Party) of the Community Charter - click here

ii) Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee meeting on September 27th at 9am in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St). On the Agenda:

* Budget 2024

* Financial updates from Staff

* Tax Ranking Trends discussion

* Mater Fees - Discussion

View the full Meeting Agenda here

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

* Welcome from WLFN

* Reports from the Superintendent and Committees'

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole Session at 6pm on Tuesday, September 26th in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St). On the Agenda:

* Delegation -- Anel Jazybayeva and Nathan Lane, Thompson Rivers University Students' Union re TRU's Current Senate Governance Model

* Update on Temporary Overnight Sheltering and Homelessness Conversation

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District -- Meetings as noted below:

1) Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus -- Meeting at 3pm on Wednesday, September 27th in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation -- Inspector Robert Lake, Williams Lake RCMP Detachment Commander

* Discussion Items -- CRD / City of Williams Lake Memorandum of Understanding; Central Cariboo Grants for Assistance

View the full Agenda here

2) Central Cariboo Joint Committee - Meeting at 5:30pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Stacey Poirier, Williams Lake Studio Theatre Society (WLSTS) Treasurer re Need for Permanent Arts & Recreation Centre in Community and Home for WLSTS

* Central Cariboo Arts & Culture Society's '2023 Q2/Q3 and Performances in the Park Report'

* Information Item - CCACS Exploring Mural Installation on Outside of Arts Centre (Melissa Normandin)

* CMRC Solar Panel Project Update

* CMRC Fees and Charges 2024-2026

* Discussion Items -- Central Cariboo Recreation and Leisure Services 2023 Business, Financial and Capital Plans (to guide 2024 Budget discussions); City of Williams Lake's Williams Lake Age Friendly Project 'Seniors Homesharing Planning Project Final Report' dated July 7, 2023 (from CC Rural Directors'); Williams Lake RCMP Detachment Operational Priorities between Williams Lake and CRD Areas D, E and F; Joint Planning with School District No. 27, City and CRD for Proposed Indoor Turf Facility; Williams Lake & Area Community Wildfire Protection Plan

View the full Agenda here

3) Cariboo RD Board of Directors' - Meeting at 9:45am on Thursday, September 28th in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom.  On the Agenda:

* Land Use Planning matters (Area Directors' only)

* 2023 UBCM CRI FireSmart Community Funding and Supports Application

* Consider 2 Year Round Grant for Assistance Applications

* Review DRAFT 2024 Board Calendar

* Endorse recommendations from previous Committee meetings

* Request from Director Neufeld, Electoral Area "E" to Access Electoral Area E Director Initiative Funds to attend upcoming CCCTA Tourism Conference in November 

View the full Agenda here

Hell Raving Creek Area Evacuation ORDER DOWNGRADE

Courtesy of the Cariboo RD's Emergency Operations Centre:

Pursuant to the BC Emergency Program Act, the evacuation order issued on September 15, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. for the Hell Raving Creek Area is being downgrade to an Evacuation Alert by the Cariboo Regional District at the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).

Effective immediately residents are allowed to return to the area.

Hell Raving Creek Area Order Downgrade

Evacuation Order Downgrade and Map
Interactive Map

More information about re-entering the area following an evacuation order can be found in the Guide to Re-Entry After an Evacuation. 

Please watch for livestock and wildlife on roads.

Residents should be aware that there may be danger trees in wildfire affected areas. Danger trees on Crown Land will be dealt with by the BC Wildfire Service danger tree fallers. Home owners and private land owners are recommended to work with an insurance agency to have an assessment done by a qualified arborist.

Wildfires remain active and firefighting activities continue in the area. It is important for residents to stay out of active wildfire areas. Interfering in an active fire area will result in crews ceasing ground and air operations potentially endangering nearby properties.

Since these areas remain on evacuation alert, residents must be prepared in case the area receives a future evacuation order on short notice. Local governments may not have time to go door-to-door should a new evacuation order be issued. Residents under an evacuation alert should:

• Fill the fuel tank of personal vehicles before returning to the area.
• Bring a minimum of three days of food and essential supplies (e.g. medications, pet supplies) with you as local grocery stores may not yet have adequate stock.
• Have a plan to transport all family members should the area be brought under evacuation order.
• Keep the fuel tanks of personal vehicles full in case a new order is issued.

• Keep essential items readily available for a quick departure, including medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e. insurance), immediate care needs for dependents and, if you choose, keepsakes (photographs, etc).
• Ensure that any dependents or pets are prepared for departure.
• Prepare to move pets and livestock to a safe area.
• Ensure that you have accommodation options for your family, if possible. A Reception Centre will be made available again if required.
• Check with your insurer to determine what may be available to you if you are evacuated – homeowner or tenant insurance may provide greater support than the Emergency Support Services program.
• Self-register for Emergency Support Services on the Evacuee Registration & Assistance (ERA) tool at https://ess.gov.bc.ca/
• Monitor reliable news sources for evacuation order information and the CRD’s channels on Facebook and cariboord.ca. Further information will be issued as it becomes available.

Air quality may remain poor as a result of smoke from nearby fire activity. Those with respiratory issues, small children, and the elderly should consider this before they choose to return to the area. The BC Centre for Disease Control and regional health authorities have further information on their websites about the health impacts of wildfire smoke.

Residents returning to the area are encouraged to register for the Cariboo Chilcotin Emergency Notification System to receive a text, call or email regarding Evacuation Alerts and Orders impacting them.

For Cariboo Regional District information, please visit Cariboo Regional District's website, Emergency Operations Centre Facebook page, Twitter / X feed, or call the CRD’s emergency information line at 1-866-759-4977 (8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily).

Twist Creek Area Evacuation ORDER DOWNGRADE

Courtesy of the Cariboo RD's Emergency Operations Centre:

Pursuant to the BC Emergency Program Act, the evacuation order issued on September 11, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. for the Twist Creek Area is being downgrade to an Evacuation Alert by the Cariboo Regional District at the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC).

Effective immediately residents are allowed to return to the area.

Twist Creek Area Order Downgrade

Evacuation Order Downgrade and Map
Interactive Map

More information about re-entering the area following an evacuation order can be found in the Guide to Re-Entry After an Evacuation. 

Please watch for livestock and wildlife on roads.

Residents should be aware that there may be danger trees in wildfire affected areas. Danger trees on Crown Land will be dealt with by the BC Wildfire Service danger tree fallers. Home owners and private land owners are recommended to work with an insurance agency to have an assessment done by a qualified arborist.

Wildfires remain active and firefighting activities continue in the area. It is important for residents to stay out of active wildfire areas. Interfering in an active fire area will result in crews ceasing ground and air operations potentially endangering nearby properties.

Since these areas remain on evacuation alert, residents must be prepared in case the area receives a future evacuation order on short notice. Local governments may not have time to go door-to-door should a new evacuation order be issued. Residents under an evacuation alert should:

• Fill the fuel tank of personal vehicles before returning to the area.
• Bring a minimum of three days of food and essential supplies (e.g. medications, pet supplies) with you as local grocery stores may not yet have adequate stock.
• Have a plan to transport all family members should the area be brought under evacuation order.
• Keep the fuel tanks of personal vehicles full in case a new order is issued.

• Keep essential items readily available for a quick departure, including medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers (i.e. insurance), immediate care needs for dependents and, if you choose, keepsakes (photographs, etc).
• Ensure that any dependents or pets are prepared for departure.
• Prepare to move pets and livestock to a safe area.
• Ensure that you have accommodation options for your family, if possible. A Reception Centre will be made available again if required.
• Check with your insurer to determine what may be available to you if you are evacuated – homeowner or tenant insurance may provide greater support than the Emergency Support Services program.
• Self-register for Emergency Support Services on the Evacuee Registration & Assistance (ERA) tool at https://ess.gov.bc.ca/
• Monitor reliable news sources for evacuation order information and the CRD’s channels on Facebook and cariboord.ca. Further information will be issued as it becomes available.

Air quality may remain poor as a result of smoke from nearby fire activity. Those with respiratory issues, small children, and the elderly should consider this before they choose to return to the area. The BC Centre for Disease Control and regional health authorities have further information on their websites about the health impacts of wildfire smoke.

Residents returning to the area are encouraged to register for the Cariboo Chilcotin Emergency Notification System to receive a text, call or email regarding Evacuation Alerts and Orders impacting them.

For Cariboo Regional District information, please visit Cariboo Regional District's website, Emergency Operations Centre Facebook page, Twitter / X feed, or call the CRD’s emergency information line at 1-866-759-4977 (8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily).

Cariboo RD has success with its' UBCM Resolutions

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

Five "made-in-the-Cariboo" proposals were sent in, and five came out as official policy for the Union of B.C. Municipalities. The Cariboo Regional District Board’s original resolutions will now form part of the UBCM’s work to advocate for changes in provincial law and programs to better support citizens of B.C.

The resolutions endorsed at UBCM included calls to:

Empower property owners to make exclusion applications to the Agricultural Land Commission directly rather than through local governments;

Provide additional funding and support for the reconciliation efforts of local governments;

Require provincial approving officers to notify rural residents of subdivision applications in their area;

End the use of the Canadian Black Book as the basis for setting PST on used vehicles based instead of actual sales prices; and

Include local governments in the planning process for broadband/internet improvements.

Margo Wagner, Chair of the Cariboo Regional District, said “I am pleased that all of our resolutions submitted to the UBCM convention were endorsed by the delegates. By working together, we will achieve results that will benefit both the Cariboo region and the rest of the Province. These endorsements represent this collective vision.”

The North Central Local Government Association, which represents local governments from 100 Mile House north to the B.C. Yukon border and everywhere in-between, also endorsed the resolutions at their convention in May. This dual endorsement strengthens the advocacy efforts of the Cariboo Regional District to promote policy solutions that work for Cariboo residents. More information about UBCM can be found on their website, www.ubcm.ca.

UBCM 2023 - Day 5 of 5

Today is the Final Day (Day 5) of the 120th Annual Convention of the Union of BC Municipalities being held in Vancouver, BC.  The Convention guidebook and other related material can be viewed at https://www.ubcm.ca/convention-resolutions/2023-convention/program.  

For #UBCM2023/#UBCM23 Delegates - today is also Orange Shirt Day! After Resolutions Debate concludes this morning, UBCM Delegates will hear from the Hon. David Eby - Premier of British Columbia -- UBCM Delegates will head back home to their local communities

Once home from the UBCM Convention -- I will post my usual Post Event Report respecting my attendance at the 2023 UBCM Convention for my constituents... 

Have a great Friday, 

~SF

UBCM 2023 - Day 4 of 5

Today is Day 4 of 5 of the 120th Annual Convention of the Union of BC Municipalities being held in Vancouver, BC.  The Convention Guide can be viewed at https://www.ubcm.ca/convention-resolutions/2023-convention/program

As to my Agenda today:

* Resolutions Debate cont. 

* Meetings with Ministries of Emergency Management and Forests re: burnt out property on Lagerquist Rd in McLeese Lake as well as former Wildwood Elementary School property 

* Annual UBCM Banquet Dinner

Steve 

UBCM 2023 - Day 3 of 5

Today is Day 3 of 5 of the 120th Annual Convention of the Union of BC Municipalities being held in Vancouver, BC.  The formal portion of the Convention starts today.  The Convention Guide can be viewed at https://www.ubcm.ca/convention-resolutions/2023-convention/program

In the morning -- The Opening Ceremonies of the 120th Annual Convention of the UBCM/Union of BC Municipalities then Resolutions Debate then the annual NCLGA Annual UBCM Lunch and then in the afternoon -- Cabinet Town Hall and Provincial Clinics and then in the evening -- BC Government and CUPE BC Receptions

Have a great Wednesday, 

~SF

UBCM 2023 - Day 2 of 5

Today is Day 2 of 5 of the 120th Annual Convention of the Union of BC Municipalities being held in Vancouver, BC.  The Convention guidebook and other related material can be viewed at https://www.ubcm.ca/convention-resolutions/2023-convention/program

I'll be attending the "EA Directors' Forum" and then the Forum's Lunch to follow and in the afternoon, I have a meeting with BC Transit with my Cariboo Regional District Area "E" colleague, Melynda Neufeld, Cariboo RD CAO Murray Daly and also attending - Williams Lake City Councillor Micheal Moses, as he sits on two Williams Lake Council Committees' that deal with transit -- Community Services/General Governance

And then in the evening, attend the UBCM Welcome Reception

Have a great Tuesday, 

SF

UBCM 2023 - Day 1 of 5

Today - the 120th Annual Convention of the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) commences in downtown Vancouver, BC and will conclude at noon on Friday, September 22nd.  The first two days of the Convention will be pre-Convention sessions of clinics and various other learning and networking opportunities with the formal part of the Convention commencing Wednesday and conclude Friday with an address from the Hon. David Eby - Premier of British Columbia.  The full Convention program can be viewed here

Today -- I will be attending Shared Path of Reconciliation (9:30 -10:30 am), then Implementing UNDRIP: Guidance for Local Governments (10:30 - 11:30 am) and then an informal meeting of NCLGA Directors' at lunchtime...

In the afternoon -- I'll be attending Tools for Mindfulness and Stress Reduction and then Beyond Balance: Bypassing Barriers and finally the Electoral Area Directors' "Meet and Greet" in the evening... 

Have a great day, 

SF

Horn Lake Area Evacuation ORDER (Cariboo RD - Area "J")

Courtesy of the Cariboo RD's Emergency Operations Centre:

Pursuant to the BC Emergency Program Act, an Evacuation ORDER has been issued by the Cariboo Regional District's Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) for 28 parcels in the Horn Lake Area.  This order covers 6,368 hectares south of the community of Tatla Lake. This order replaces the evacuation alert issued on September 15, 2023 at 2:45 p.m.

Due to immediate danger to life safety due to fire, members of the RCMP or other groups will be expediting this action. The evacuation route is:  

• Travel NORTH on Bluff Lake Road to Highway 20;
• Follow Highway 20 EAST to Williams Lake.

Evacuees can access Emergency Support Services (ESS) by self-registering using the Evacuee Registration & Assistance (ERA) tool at https://ess.gov.bc.ca/. Evacuees can also call 250-267-4861 to register.

The Evacuation Order is in effect for the following area:

Horn Lake Area Order

Evacuation Alert and Map
Interactive Map

 

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO:

• You must leave the area immediately
• Register at the ESS Centre listed above
• Close all windows and doors
• Do not shut off your natural gas if you receive an evacuation order. For more information visit www.fortisbc.com
• Close gates (latch) but do not lock
• Gather your family: take a neighbour or someone who needs help
• Take critical items (medicine, purse, wallet, and keys) only if they are immediately available. Take pets in pet kennels or on leash.
• Do not use more vehicles than you have to.
• Do not use the telephone unless you need emergency service.

YOU MUST LEAVE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY

Further information will be issued as it becomes available. Please visit the CRD Emergency Operations Facebook page, the CRD website, or contact the CRD’s public information line at 1-866-759-4977, which is open today until 4:00 p.m. and then daily from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. daily.

Residents are strongly encouraged to register for the Cariboo Chilcotin Emergency Notification System to receive a text, call or email regarding Evacuation Alerts and Orders.