Secondary suite program expands to 16 Regional Districts

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

More affordable housing options are on the way for people in B.C. as eligibility for the upcoming Secondary Suites Incentive Program (SSIP) is being expanded to 16 regional districts.

“We’re expanding the secondary suite program as part of our Homes for People action plan to support the supply of affordable long-term rentals in even more areas of the province so more people can access below-market housing in urban and rural areas alike,” said the Hon. Ravi Kahlon, BC's Minister of Housing. “We’re using innovative solutions to make it easier for homeowners and communities to build homes faster, so people can live and work in the communities they love.”

The three-year pilot SSIP was introduced in September 2023 and is set to launch in April 2024 to support the delivery of as many as 1,000 affordable rental units per year for three years. To do so, the SSIP will provide approximately 3,000 homeowners with forgivable loans for as much as $40,000 to create a new secondary suite or an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on their property. To qualify, the units must be rented below market rates for at least five years.

“Rural homeowners who want to create a rental suite and people looking for affordable homes in rural B.C. will have more options soon,” said Roly Russell, Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Development. “The housing crisis affects all corners of the province. Giving people more options and support is important, and the addition of below-market rental suites and accessory units will help rural people, and communities, everywhere.”

Sixteen of B.C.’s 27 regional districts have the necessary building bylaws, and building-permit and inspection services across their electoral areas that make them eligible for the SSIP pilot. The Province will review whether it can add some of the remaining regional districts in years 2 or 3 of the SSIP, as either they do not have building bylaws and permit/inspection services or they are only provided to some areas.

“The availability of affordable housing is a significant issue throughout the province in both urban and rural areas,” said Jerrilyn Kirk, director, Regional District of Fraser-Fort George and electoral area representative for the Union of BC Municipalities board. “Regional districts welcome their inclusion in the SSIP as it provides another tool to help regional districts and their residents address this challenge.”

The SSIP applies to all 161 incorporated B.C. municipalities and will now also be available in the following 16 regional districts:

• Alberni–Clayoquot
• Capital
• Central Kootenay
• Central Okanagan
• Cowichan Valley
• East Kootenay
• Fraser Valley
• Fraser–Fort George
• Kootenay Boundary
• Nanaimo
• North Okanagan
• Squamish–Lillooet
• Strathcona
• Sunshine Coast
• Thompson-Nicola
• Peace River

“This is a great program and it will make a difference in regional districts, too,” said Ben Maartman, director, Area H, Cowichan Valley Regional District. “I’m glad to see the government recognize this and expand eligibility to include electoral areas, and I look forward to seeing the impact this will have on housing availability in our communities for years to come.”

To help homeowners navigate the process for a secondary suite, the Province released Home Suite Home, a comprehensive guide to build and manage a rental suite in British Columbia.  

To help streamline the permitting process for local governments and homeowners, the Province has launched a standardized housing-design project and is developing standardized designs that will be pre-approved for ADUs and small-scale, multi-unit dwellings. Four of these standardized designs and plans for ADUs are expected to be available to local governments by summer 2024, and will help homeowners and builders save on time and costs.

The SSIP project is part of the Homes for People action plan and the $19-billion housing investment by the B.C. government. Since 2017, the Province has more than 77,000 homes delivered or underway.

Quick Facts:

• Legislation was introduced on Nov. 1, 2023, to allow secondary suites and ADUs across B.C.
• The Province will review whether it can add additional regional districts in years 2 or 3 of the SSIP.
• The Province allocated as much as $91 million over three years for a pilot project encouraging homeowners to develop new secondary suites in 2024.
• There are approximately 228,700 units that could be rented out as secondary suites in British Columbia, according to BC Assessment data from 2022.

Learn More:

For information about the Secondary Suite Incentive Program and to sign up for updates, visit: https://bchousing.org/secondary-suite

To read the Home Suite Home guide, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/secondary-suites#suite

To learn more about the standardized housing design, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HOUS0158-001798

To read the Homes for People action plan, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HOUS0019-000436

WL Council Highlights - Jan 30th mtg

Present: 

Mayor SPS Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Delainey, Lyons, Moses and Nelson

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

Mayor Rathor 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 Williams Lake City Council meeting held on January 16th (Regular) and January 25th (Special), 2024 were both adopted

Meeting Video here

Delegations: None

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated January 18 and 25, 2024

2) Council approved a 2024 Grant-in-Aid in the amount of $10,000 to the Social Planning Council of Williams Lake and Areas, in accordance with Council Resolution No. 492/23

3) At the request of Councillor Nelson, Council agreed to:

express its appreciation to the Province of British Columbia for the grant of $200,358 to assist in delivering housing for people faster and:

        Confirm the City of Williams Lake housing needs report is updated;

        Contract out the review for the City of Williams Lake Official Community Plan Bylaw;

        Align the City’s Zoning Bylaw with the Official Community Plan Bylaw to pre-zone for the total amount of housing Williams Lake needs on a regular basis;

        Streamline Public Hearings;

        Pre-zone key areas of the City for investment attraction;

        Pre-zone key areas of the City for density-driven development.

4) Council approved compensation, meals and registration costs for Councillor Micheal Moses to attend the UBCM Housing Summit being held February 13 to 14, 2024 in Vancouver, BC

5) Council agreed to continue to support the Lake Harvester program and that Council pursue a political program, through NCLGA/UBCM, to ensure the success of the Lake Harvester program

6) Council approved additional funding of $53,370.00 over the 2023 approved $75,000.00 to a total of $128,370.00 plus additional taxes for the Tower Crescent Reservoir Design project, and awarded the contract to McElhanney Ltd.

7) Council waived City of Williams Lake Purchasing Policy No. 138 to direct award the contract for 2024 Wildfire Mitigation Treatment projects, funded by UBCM and FESBC, to Borland Creek Logging for a contract cost not to exceed $219,150 (inclusive of taxes) to ensure that the treatments are completed during optimal weather conditions, and to the recommendation of experts for each treatment

8) Council approved an application to the 2024 Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) ‘Community Places’ grant program in partnership with the Williams Lake Rotary and staff were directed to support the project with the in-kind support and required documentation for the project as described in the City Staff Report 

9) Council ratified an email poll to approve a 2024 application to the Emergency Support Services Equipment and Training Funding Stream of the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) Community Emergency Preparedness Fund for up to $30,000 to enhance the capacity of the local Emergency Support Services team

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

* That pursuant to Committee of Whole Report #04-2024 and the report of the Chief Financial Officer dated January 11, 2024, all non-essential Water projects (costing approximately $6.4M) be deferred until after the Water Treatment Plant is completed (to 2028-2029), with the City managing the risks associated with this deferral, and that the City implement a 13% increase in Water rates (approximately $37/year for residential customers) to have funds available for contingencies during Water Treatment Plant construction and to operate the plant once constructed.

* That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #05-2024 and the report of the Chief Financial Officer dated January 11, 2024, Water Reserves be built up to have funds to implement these deferred projects by doubling up the Water Parcel Tax (additional $84 per parcel).

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillor Nelson

* That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #06-2024, staff be directed to review the capital plan, remove non-essential, non-grant-funded projects from the general capital plan, cover the remaining shortfall by raising tax rates or using reserves, and thereafter present an updated budget for Council's consideration.

11) Council received letters from Cariboo-Chilcotin MLA Lorne Doerkson dated January 8, 2024 and Bryan Withage dated January 15, 2024 in support of the City of Williams Lake's call for safety improvements to the Highway 20 corridor

12) Council agreed to support the IREA’s (Interior Rodeo Event Association) application to the NDIT Marketing Initiatives funding program to support their marketing needs for the upcoming Indoor Spring Classic Rodeo taking place April 19-21, 2024

13) Council proclaimed the following:

* The lights of Williams Lake City Hall be changed to blue on April 11, 2024 for "Parkinson's Awareness Month"

* The lights of City Hall be changed to purple from April 4 - 10, 2024 for "National Dental Hygienists Week"

* The lighting of City Hall be changed to purple on May 12, 2024 for "Fibromyalgia Awareness Day"

14) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of January 30th, 2024

Members of Council and the CAO provided verbal reports as to their recent activities

Closed Council Session:

RESOLVED AT 7:41pm -- That Council proceed into a Closed Meeting, following adjournment of the Open Meeting, according to Section 92 of the Community Charter for discussion of items identified under Section 90(1b) personal information about an identifiable individual who is being considered for a municipal award or honour, or who has offered to provide a gift to the municipality on condition of anonymity, Section 90(1i - the receipt of advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose;) and Section 90(1j - information that is prohibited, or information that if it were presented in a document would be prohibited, from disclosure under section 21 of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act)

 

Council adjourned at 7:42pm

North Cariboo Joint Committee Statement re: Jr. A Hockey Team in Quesnel

Statement of the North Cariboo Joint Advisory Committee:

Editor's Note -- for full context:

Letter from Junior "A" Hockey Team - click here

Letter from Quesnel Kangaroos - click here

Over the past few weeks, the North Cariboo Joint Advisory Committee has been in discussions with a proponent of a potential junior hockey franchise interested in locating to Quesnel. Last week, the committee hoped to reach an agreement that would both host this franchise and support the continued success of the Quesnel Kangaroos. However, the proponent has since withdrawn their proposal.

“We believe it is important that our community continues to support the Quesnel Kangaroos who have been embedded here since 1947,” said Co-Chair Director Jim Glassford. “Unfortunately, we were unable to come to a mutual agreement that would enable both teams to be viable.”

“We remain open to hosting a junior hockey team in the West Fraser Centre alongside the Quesnel Kangaroos. Quesnel has done it before, and we know we will again in the future,” said Co-Chair Councillor Laurey-Anne Roodenburg.

 

The North Cariboo Joint Advisory Committee is comprised of City of Quesnel Council and four Northern Directors of the Cariboo Regional District. Its primary role is to facilitate recreation services provided through several community facilities including the Quesnel & District Arts and Recreation Centre, West Fraser Centre and Quesnel Arena, the Indoor Sports Centre, and several parks and trails.

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of January 29 - February 2, 2024

The following local governments' of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be meeting during the week of January 29 - February 2, 2024, as follows:

Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, January 30th at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Reports from Committees'

* Remedial Action Resolution -- 2222 Maple Drive

* UBCM Emergency Operation Centres and Emergency Support Services Grant Application(s)

* Development Permit-2023-67 (#900- 855 Rita Road)

* City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1954, 2024 (Vape Store at 118 Juniper Road) [Rescind 1st/2nd Readings]

* Letter from Lhtako Quesnel 2024 BC Winter Games - Updated parking requests

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, January 30th at 6:00pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St) and to be livestreamed via YouTube. On the Agenda:

* 2024 Grant-in-Aid Application - Social Planning Council - Final Approval

* Report from Councillor Nelson re Support for Local Governments to Deliver Housing for People Faster

* Request from Councillor Moses to attend UBCM Housing Summit: February 13-14, 2024

* Wildfire Mitigation Treatments - Direct Award (Country Club Blvd. Area)

* Rotary Club of Williams Lake - Fitness Equipment for Kiwanis Park Project

* Poll of Council - UBCM Grant Application for ESS Equipment and Training

* 3 Recommendations (2024 Budget) from previous Committee of the Whole, for consideration of endorsement

* Closed or In-Camera Council Meeting - Section 90(1b - award or gift to local government under condition of anonymity) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

Meanwhile - local elected officials (Mayors, Councillors' and Electoral Area Directors') across British Columbia (including those from the Cariboo-Chilcotin Region) will be attending professional development sessions in Richmond, BC during the week of January 30th (afternoon) to February 2nd (afternoon), as follows:

UBCM Electoral Area Directors Forum/Jan 30-31, 2024 - Agenda here

Local Government Leadership Academy/Jan 31-Feb 2nd, 2024.  Agenda here

Central Cariboo Joint Committee Highlights - Jan 24th mtg

Present in the Cariboo RD Boardroom -- Mayor Rathor, Councillors Moses/Nelson and Directors Forseth/Neufeld

Present via teleconference: Director M. LeBourdais

In the Chair: Mayor SPS Rathor

Meeting called to order at 5:30pm

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw and asked Committee members to ensure that their mobile device was put into silent mode or turned off... 

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of meetings of the Committee held November 22nd (Regular)/December 18th (Special), 2023 were both adopted  

Delegation:

Laurie Walters, Executive Director, and Liane Nunn, Communications Coordinator from the Williams Lake and Area Social Planning Council, appeared before the Committee to speak to the Social Planning Council's proposed project as noted in its 2023 Grant-in-Aid applications

Following their presentation - a Question/Answer period ensued 

The Chair thanked the delegation for their time/information

Business:

1) The Committee received the following items for information:

* Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society Fall 2023 Grant Award Update

* Williams Lake Slo-Pitch 2023 Year in Review

* Williams Lake Youth Soccer Association 2023 Report

2) The Committee discussed the following items:

* Williams Lake Airshed Planning

* CMRC (Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex) Inclusivity of Indigenous Users

* Joint Cariboo RD/City of Williams Lake Grant in Aid Process

* Rotary Club's Kiwanis Greenspace Proposal for a Seniors Activity Park

Following discussion, the following Resolutions of the Committee were agreed to:

a) That Staff bring back a report as to background of Williams Lake Airshed Planning, Williams Lake Airshed Roundtable, current status and next steps/key targets

b) That staff investigate options for transitioning the City of Williams Lake/Cariboo RD going back to a joint grant for assistance process and bring forward a report to transition to a Joint process in time for the 2025 intake (Sept - Nov 2024)

c) That the Committee endorse in principle the location of the Rotary Club's Kiwanis Greenspace Proposal for a Seniors Activity Park and that staff bring back a full report on financing, timelines, etc. before making decisions regarding potential financing

3) Action Page

Following discussion -- the Committee agreed to receive the Action Page and directed that Item #5 be removed from the Action Page

The Committee adjourned at 7:10pm

Canada, B.C. help farmers, ranchers prepare for extreme weather

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

B.C. farmers and ranchers are being supported with a new round of funding to help prepare and protect their farms and animals from extreme-weather emergencies, ensuring people will continue to have access to local food in a changing climate.

Through the Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture program, $2 million is available to support producers with projects that help prepare farms for wildfires, flooding and extreme heat.

The program began in 2022 and has supported more than 150 projects on B.C. farms in the poultry, dairy, beef, tree fruit and berry sectors.

Examples include:

• improving cooling systems for barns
• enhancing shade and heat protection for livestock and crops
• protection and storage of feed and fuel
• protection of wells
• FireSmart critical infrastructure assessments
• retrofitting farm buildings in preparation of wildfires

Funding for B.C. farm and ranch businesses opened Tuesday, Jan. 23, 2024. Funding will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis with up to $50,000 available per applicant and per project category.

The Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture program is part of B.C.’s Climate Preparedness and Adaptation Strategy and is delivered by the Investment Agriculture Foundation of BC (IAF), with funding from the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), and CleanBC.

The Sustainable CAP is a five-year, $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of the agriculture, agri‐food and agri‐based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5-billion commitment that is cost-shared 60% federally and 40% provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.  

Learn More:

To find out more about the Extreme Weather Preparedness for Agriculture funding opportunities, visit: https://iafbc.ca/ewp/

Cariboo RD receives $$$ for building Indigenious Relationships during Emergencies

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Editor's Note -- the Cariboo Regional District will be receiving $30,000 for relationship building for cultural safety and humility: Training program development and implementation from this funding announcement of the Provincial Government

Communities across B.C. will receive funding to enhance cultural safety in local emergency management, helping ensure First Nations, Métis and Inuit people are treated with inclusivity and respect during emergencies.

“We have heard that emergency management supports can be delivered in a more culturally safe and inclusive way. Supporting Indigenous people and communities begins with understanding their history and values,” said the Hon. George Heyman, acting BC Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness, and BC Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. “By creating more opportunities for staff and volunteers to learn about cultural safety, we are working toward ensuring Indigenous people feel respected, included and cared for during emergencies.”

The Province is providing approximately $580,000 for 22 local projects under the Indigenous Cultural Safety and Cultural Humility Training stream of the Community Emergency and Preparedness Fund (CEPF). This funding will be used by local governments and First Nations to make emergency management and supports more inclusive of First Nations, Métis and Inuit people.

Projects include:

• Cultural safety and humility training will be provided for Town of Smithers staff involved with local emergency management, which is adapted to the cultural aspects and needs of the Wet'suwet'en community.
• A two-day workshop for Tseshaht First Nation emergency-response staff will focus on the history of residential schools, the effect of displacement on Indigenous Peoples and how to create culturally safe spaces in emergency reception centres.
• Training for emergency management staff, volunteers and elected officials across the Fraser Valley Regional District will increase understanding of cultural differences, the impact of words, the challenges that communities are grappling with, and recognizing how emergency decisions may systemically impact First Nations.
• Semá:th First Nation will develop a comprehensive training program to equip people with skills in intercultural competency, conflict resolution, human rights and anti-racism. It will be offered to a range of partners involved in emergency management, which may include emergency responders, local government officials, health-care providers, community volunteers, non-government organizations, education institutions, social workers, and community leaders and Elders.
• Building cultural competency for collaborative emergency management to bridge gaps between emergency responders, partner agencies and First Nations in the Central Coast Regional District.

“It is crucial that local emergency-management programs and services are centred in cultural safety,” said the Hon. Murray Rankin, BC's Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation. “With this provincial funding, Indigenous people in B.C. will benefit from more inclusive emergency management. These supports are part of B.C.’s work to build a better province where all people can access the services and programs they need.”

The CEPF helps communities to better prepare for and mitigate the impacts of climate-related emergencies by funding local projects and initiatives in several categories. These include disaster-risk reduction and climate adaptation, public notification and evacuation-route planning, and emergency-support services equipment and training.

The Province has invested $369 million into the CEPF since it was established in 2017. Approximately $176 million has been provided to First Nations and local governments through the CEPF for more than 1,700 projects.

Background can be viewed here

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government/Board of Education Meetings - Week of Jan 22-26, 2024

During the week of January 22-26, 2024 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments or Boards of Education will be holding Board/Council or Committee Meetings:

Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, January 23rd at 7pm in Wells Council Chambers/via Zoom (4243 Sanders Avenue).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Quesnel - Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee on Wednesday, January 24th at 9am in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* CN Rail Crossing – Rome Ave

* Operating Budget 2024

* Monthly Reporting from Finance Department

View the full Agenda here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) - Regular Board of Education Meeting on Tuesday, January 23rd at 6:30pm in the SD27 Boardroom (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole Session on Tuesday, January 23rd at 6pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* 2024 Budget, 2024-2028 Financial Plan and 10-Year Capital Plan - Update #3

* Closed/In-Camera Council Meeting, to follow open meeting of Committee of the Whole -- Sections 90(1a/1c - appointment/labour) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

100 Mile House - all meetings to take place on Tuesday, January 23rd in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue).  

i) Committee of the Whole - 2pm. On the Agenda:

* Delegation:  Parkside Arts Gallery 

* Capital Budget Planning Discussions' - 2024 Fiscal Year

View the full Agenda here  

ii) Regular Council - 5pm.  On the Agenda:

* Bylaw Officer's Report for December 2023

* Hot July Nights - Street Closure Request

* UBCM/Community Emergency Preparedness Fund application

* OCP/Zoning Amendment Application - 810/820 Exeter Truck Route

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District:

i) Policy Committee - Regular Meeting on Wednesday, January 24th at 10:00am in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake). On the Agenda:

* Board on the Road Meeting Policy Proposal

* Director Certificate of Recognition Policy

* Rescind TAC Policy

* Library Programme Rooms Policy - Update

* Regional District Engagement Strategy 2023 - 2027

View the full Agenda here

ii) Central Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Wednesday, January 24th at 5:30pm in the Cariboo RD Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Social Planning Council of Williams Lake and Area

* Information Items --  Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Society Fall 2023 Grant Award Update; Williams Lake Slo-Pitch 2023 Year in Review and Williams Lake Youth Soccer Association 2023 Report

* Discussion Items -- Williams Lake Airshed Planning;  CMRC Inclusivity of Indigenous Users; Joint Grant in Aid Process and Rotary Club's Kiwanis Greenspace Proposal for a Seniors Activity Park (referred from City of Williams Lake Council)

View the full Agenda here

BC Support for local governments to deliver housing for people faster

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Editor's Note -- the following local governments' of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be receiving financial support, based on this announcement of the Government of British Columbia:

* District of Wells - $150,975

* City of Quesnel - $195,142

* City of Williams Lake - $200,358

* District of 100 Mile House - $158,991

* Cariboo Regional District (Electoral Areas) - $327,132"

The Province is supporting local governments to build more housing for people faster with funding to help them meet new provincial legislative requirements.

“There is an urgent need for more homes for people, and we are working with local governments to build this housing faster,” said the Hon. Ravi Kahlon, BC's Minister of Housing. “With new housing actions to build homes in our communities, it is important that we support local governments to improve the processes to get the housing built that people in our community desperately need. By providing them with upfront funding, instead of distributing it over time, local governments will be able to support the building of more housing as quickly as possible.”

The Province recently passed a series of legislation aimed at creating more housing, such as transit-oriented development and small-scale, multi-unit housing. Starting Jan. 18, 2024, the Province will provide $51 million in grant-based funding from Budget 2023 to all municipalities, regional districts and the Islands Trust – a total of 188 local governments – in British Columbia. This funding is intended to support local governments to meet the new legislated requirements. 

Recognizing that local governments need immediate support to fulfil the requirements, the Province is providing this funding up front to help them undertake the necessary work. Local governments can use this funding to update housing needs reports, zoning bylaws, development cost charge and amenity cost charge bylaws, and community plans by hiring consultants and staff, and to do research and community engagement, as part of the transition to improve the development approvals process. This funding will be especially beneficial for smaller local governments that may have fewer resources to make changes.

This funding is part of the historic $19-billion housing investment by government. Since 2017, the Province has more than 77,000 homes that have been delivered or are underway.

Quick Facts:

In addition to the $51 million, the Province has provided a further investment of $10 million for a second intake for the Local Government Development Approvals Program (LGDAP), an application-based grant fund managed by the Union of British Columbia Municipalities that launched in 2021.

LGDAP grants support local government-initiated projects to implement best practices and test innovative approaches to improve their development approval processes.

Applications for this funding opened Jan. 1, 2024. Successful recipients may be announced in spring 2024.

Learn More:

To know the funding allocations per local government, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/Funding_allocation.pdf

To read more about the local government housing initiatives, visit:

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/housing-tenancy/local-governments-and-housing/housing-initiatives

To learn more about government’s new Homes for People action plan, visit:

https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023HOUS0019-000436

To learn about the steps the Province is taking to tackle the housing crisis and deliver affordable homes for British Columbians, visit: https://strongerbc.gov.bc.ca/housing/

2024 Business Facade Improvement Program grants available - Cariboo RD Electoral Areas'

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

Funding is once again available in the Cariboo Regional District (for businesses and property owners (Electoral Areas only) looking to give their commercial building a facelift. The 2024 Business Façade Improvement Program is open to all commercial businesses located within the rural areas of the Regional District. Program guidelines and application forms are available at cariboord.ca/bfi. Our online application form offers a streamlined portal for businesses to apply for the grant.

Eligible businesses can receive a 50 per cent reimbursement to a maximum of $5,000 for exterior renovations and improvements such as façades, signage, murals, architectural features, siding, lighting and awnings. Funding will be committed to eligible projects on a first-come, first-serve basis until all funding has been committed.

Businesses inside of municipal boundaries can also apply for funding through their municipality. The City of Quesnel, City of Williams Lake, District of 100 Mile House are offering their own programs for 2024.

The 2024 Business Façade Improvement Program is made possible through a $20,000 grant from the Northern Development Initiative Trust. For more information about Northern Development Initiative Trust’s funding programs and success stories, visit northerndevelopment.bc.ca.

Quesnel Council Highlights - Jan 16th mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Northern BC Highway 97 Quesnel North-South Interconnector

Council approved $12,000 from the Council Initiatives budget toward a campaign urging the provincial government to re-route traffic through Quesnel, diverting dangerous goods from our city centre, rehabilitating deteriorating infrastructure (Quesnel River bridge) and ensuring connectivity of Highway 97 as a major provincial transportation corridor.

Show your support and visit LET'S CONNECT for more information

Council will be presenting an information package to the Province and we need to reinforce the community support of the Quesnel North-South Interconnector.

Residents in the Quesnel area will receive a postcard in their mail in March 2024.  Mail the postcard to City Hall (postage is prepaid) or deliver the postcard to City Hall at 410 Kinchant Street.  Postcards must be received at City Hall by April 30, 2024.

If you don't receive a postcard contact us at 250-992-2111 or cityhall@quesnel.ca. 

530 Carson Avenue

BC Housing representatives attended as a delegation to present Council the details of their application to Rezone the property at 530 Carson Avenue (Grace Inn), for the phased redevelopment of the site to provide supportive and affordable housing.

Council provided First Reading of City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1956, 2024 (Grace Inn) and scheduled the Public Hearing for February 20, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. at Council Chambers, City Hall, 410 Kinchant Street.

BC Housing On-Line Community Dialogue Session

TUESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2024 - 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

BC Housing is inviting interested neighbours to join the first Public Consultation on   January 23rd, 2024 to learn more, meet project partners and ask questions.

• Where: REGISTER HERE
• For More information - Let's Talk Housing BC

Cariboo Regional District Emergency Notification System

The Cariboo Regional District along with neighbouring municipalities have chosen to switch to the Voyent Alert Emergency Notification System. A marketing campaign is underway to ensure that our citizens are aware of the change of system.  If you are signed up for the current system, you will automatically be transferred to the new system.

If you are not signed up:  SIGN UP

Development Services

Council approved:

Development Permit DP2023-66 for the construction of a single detached dwelling on LOT 9 DISTRICT LOT 81 CARIBOO DISTRICT PLAN PGP38117 (Lawlor Drive)

Development Permit DP2023-64 to rezone allowing a stand-alone Vape Retail store at 118 Juniper Road.  The Public Hearing was waived, as the spot zone is consistent with the Official Community Plan and, a Notice will be posted. 

2024 Budget

CAPITAL BUDGET:  Council approved the 2024 Capital Budget and directed staff to prepare the Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw.

OPERATING BUDGET:  This year, Council is holding a Special Open meeting to discuss the 2024 Operating Budget.  This will include a presentation, review & discussion, as well as an OPEN QUESTION PERIOD, allowing the public an opportunity to engage in the budget process.

OPEN QUESTION PERIOD

FEBRUARY 27, 2024 at 5:30 p.m.

Council Chambers, City Hall, 410 Kinchant Street

Bylaws

• Bylaw 1954 - City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1954, 2024 (DP2023-64 118 Juniper) - First & Second Readings
• Bylaw 1955 - City of Quesnel West Quesnel Business Improvement Area Bylaw 1955, 2024 - First & Second Readings
• Bylaw 1956 - City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1956, 2024 (Grace Inn) - First Reading - Public Hearing set for February 20, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. at Council Chambers, City Hall, 410 Kinchant Street.
• Bylaw 1957 - City of Quesnel Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw 1957, 2024 (668 Doherty Drive) - First Reading - Public Hearing set for February 20, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. at Council Chambers, City Hall, 410 Kinchant Street.
• Bylaw 1958 - City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1958, 2024 (668 Doherty Drive) - First Reading - Public Hearing set for February 20, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. at Council Chambers, City Hall, 410 Kinchant Street.

Lhtako Quesnel 2024 BC Winter Games

Organized by the Lhtako Quesnel 2024 BC Winter Games Society, the Games will be held February 22 – 25, 2024. Requiring up to 2000 volunteers, this is an opportunity to witness future Olympians, experience personal satisfaction, or get your children involved in supporting this massive event. Learn more http://www.bcwintergames.ca or register today to volunteer.

WL Council Highlights - Jan 16th mtg

Present: Mayor SPS Rathor; Councillors Boehm, Delainey, Lyons, Moses and Nelson

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

Mayor Rathor 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 Williams Lake City Council meeting held on December 19th, 2023 was adopted

Meeting Video here

Delegations:

1) Inspector Robert Lake, Williams Lake RCMP Detachment Officer in Charge appeared before Council to present the August to December 2023 Police Commission Report

2) Denise Deschene and Ruth Lloyd, Go By Bike Williams Lake and Streets for All Williams Lake appeared before Council to discuss their Fall 2023 Update

Following each presentation -- a Question and Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor thanked each delegation for their time and information

Business Arising from Delegations:

1) Council received for information the Police Commission Report for August to December 2023 from Inspector Robert Lake, Officer in Charge for the Williams Lake RCMP detachment

2) Council received the presentation from the Go By Bike Williams Lake and Streets for All Williams Lake group regarding an update on the October 2023 Go By Bike / Active Transportation events and activities, and a request for continued support for safer streets for bikes, pedestrians and mobility devices

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated December 21, 22 and 28, 2023 and January 4, 8 and 11, 2024

2) At the request of Councillor Nelson -- Council agreed to the following Resolution relating to Bill C-48 (new Reverse Onus Bail Federal Legislation)

That Council officially advise Crown Counsel, the judiciary and the RCMP that it takes a policy position that it objects to prolific offenders being released on bail into the community of Williams Lake in accordance with Bill C-48; and further, that Council request both the provincial and federal governments to implement secure, mandatory care for offenders dealing with addiction and mental health issues, particularly prolific offenders.

Council divided - Motion agreed to by the following vote:

Affirmative: Mayor Rathor; Councillors Boehm and Lyons

Negative: Councillors A. Delainey and M. Moses

3) Council received for information the report of the Chief Financial Officer dated January 10, 2024 regarding administration charges to City of Williams Lake water and sewer utility funds in relation to a letter from Mr. John Pickford dated December 10th, 2023 regarding concerns on the same subject

4) Council awarded the Janitorial Services contract for City Hall, the Fire Hall, the City Works Yard, the Tourist Discovery Centre and the Williams Lake Regional Airport to DRG Professional Building Maintenance for a two-year term, effective February 1, 2024, for the proposed annual amount of $149,553.00, plus applicable taxes; 

City Staff were also authorized to award one optional one-year renewal contract not to exceed $149,553.00, and the annual janitorial services budget be increased by $15,550 to accommodate this agreement

5) Council endorsed 3 Recommendations from a previous Committee of the Whole meeting, as follows:

i) The presentation from Dave Dickson, Rotary Club of Williams Lake regarding a proposal for a seniors activity park to be located in the vacant greenspace in Kiwanis Park located on Proctor Street adjacent to the playground area be received and Council endorse the project in principle, including the proposed location, and direct staff to bring forward a report outlining additional information on the project (i.e. estimated cost of in-kind contribution from City for installation of equipment, etc.) to a future Council meeting for consideration; and further, that prior to Council approval the matter be forwarded to the Central Cariboo Joint Committee for discussion.

ii) The presentation of Stuart Westie requesting Council to submit a resolution to the 2023 NCLGA Convention encouraging the provincial government to make amendments to the Cemetery, Interment and Funeral Services Act to permit the alkaline hydrolysis (aquamation) process for funeral services in BC be received and Council support in principle providing the requested resolution; and further, that the Cariboo Regional District co-sponsor an NCLGA resolution with the City on this topic.

iii) A meeting be scheduled for Council and our local government appointee to Interior Health, Chief Willie Sellars, to discuss the City's concerns with related healthcare delivery services to our community and region, and that a meeting also be sought with the BC Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Health Jennifer Rice.

6) Council received the Minutes of the Special Central Cariboo Joint Committee Meeting held December 18, 2023

7) Council received the letter from Cariboo-Prince George MP Todd Doherty dated January 9, 2024 and Council recognize the significance and importance of this initiative to ensure critical barriers are removed to those in a crisis and seeking help by endorsing the 988 crisis line initiative and displaying the 988 Crisis Line Information Poster in all municipally owned and operated buildings

8) Council agreed to provide a letter in support of Phyllis Webstad being presented with a plaque in LoLo's honour on behalf of the Federal and Provincial governments at the Jean Baptiste LoLo Cultural Event being held on June 1, 2024 in Kamloops, BC

9) Council received the poster and sponsorship information package for the Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce' 'Business at its Best!' event being held Saturday, February 10, 2024 at the Tourism Discovery Centre and Council directed that it shared on the City's social media pages

10) Council proclaimed the week of February 19 to 25, 2024 as "Heritage Week" in the City of Williams Lake

11) Council ratified the In Camera poll of Council conducted on December 20, 2023 authorizing a Certificate of Appreciation to be provided to Dale Taylor in recognition of his 40 years in local radio, and further that this resolution be brought forward to a public meeting after the certificate has been presented

12) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of January 16th, 2024

Members of Council and the CAO provided verbal reports on their recent activities... 

Council adjourned at 7:35pm 

2024 BC Natural Resources Forum

From today until Thursday afternoon -- the 21st Annual BC Natural Resources Forum gets underway in the City of Prince George 

Forum Agenda (Draft) -- https://bcnaturalresourcesforum.com/site/assets/files/6807/bcnrf2024_program_digital_web.pdf

Forum Speakers' Background -- https://bcnaturalresourcesforum.com/speakers/speakers/

On behalf of the Cariboo Regional District -- Board Chair (and Area "H" Director) Margo Wagner as well as Area "B" Director Barb Bachmeier, Area "C" Director John Massier, Board Vice Chair (and Area "E" Director) Melynda Neufeld and Area "K" Director Betty Anderson are in attendance at the Forum 

Looking forward to hearing about my #CaribooRD's colleagues' reports on the Forum at the Cariboo RD Board Meeting in February ... 

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government/Board of Education Meetings - Week of January 15-19, 2024

With some Cariboo-Chilcotin local elected officials attending the 2024 BC Natural Resources Forum in Prince George from January 16-18, 2024 -- Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments or Boards of Education will be meeting during the week of January 15-19, 2024 --- as follows:

Quesnel -- Regular Council Meeting on January 16th, 2024 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: BC Housing - 530 Carson Avenue

* Committee Reports

* City of Quesnel Zoning Amendment Bylaw 1956, 2024 (530 Carson Avenue)

* Reports from Quesnel Fire Department -- Incident Calls 2023 and Wildfire Deployment 2023

* Northern Development Initiative Trust Northern Housing Initiative Grant

* 2024 Capital Budget 

View the full Agenda here

School District #28 (Quesnel) -- Regular Board of Education Meeting on Wednesday, January 17th, 2024 at 7pm in the SD28 Boardroom (401 North Star Rd, Quesnel).  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, January 16th, 2024 at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations -- Williams Lake RCMP Inspector Lake re: Update; Denise Deschene and Ruth Lloyd, Go By Bike Williams Lake and Streets for All Williams Lake re Fall 2023 Update

* Request from Councillor Nelson re: Federal Bill C-48 on Bail Reform

* Administration Charges to Water and Sewer Funds (follow-up from letter of John Pickford)

* Janitorial Contract Award

* 3 Recommendations from previous Committee of Whole Council Meeting

* Jean Baptiste LoLo Cultural Event - Request for Support

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District -- 

1) North Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, January 16th at 4:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Lhtako Quesnel 2024 BC Winter Games - Brian Balkwill and Brenda Beatty

* Closed/In-Camera Committee Session -- Section 90(1c/k - labour and negotiations) of the Community Charter.  

View the full Agenda here 

Cariboo RD Board Highlights - January 12th, 2023 mtg

Present: Chair Wagner/Vice Chair Neufeld; Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, LeBourdais (via electronic means), Richmond, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Coleman, Paull, Rathor and Pinkney

Meeting called to order at 9:57am

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 Regional District Board Meeting held December 8th, 2023 were received/adopted

Delegation - 11:30am:

Christa Pooley appeared remotely to present an annual update of the Agricultural Development Advisory Committee's activities to the Board

Following her presentation -- a Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair thanked Ms. Pooley for her time/information

Business:

Development Services

1) South Cariboo Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5453, 2023 and South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5454, 2023 were both given 1st/2nd Readings with adoption be withheld until:

* The applicant offering to enter into and entering into a Section 219 covenant to ensure compliance with the CRD Shoreland Management Policy with respect to sewage disposal system and riparian protection and that the cost of registration of the Shoreland Management covenant be borne by the applicants.

(Area G/3676 Doyle Rd)

2) Following a Public Hearing -- South Cariboo Area Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 5442, 2023 and South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5443, 2023 were both given 3rd Reading

(Area G/Adjacent to 4833 Telqua Drive)

3) The Board approved an application for a Development Variance Permit pertaining to District Lot 1922, Lillooet District, Except Plans 18881 and 26801 be issued to vary Section 4.26 (c) (iii) (1) of the South Cariboo Area Bylaw No. 3501, 1999 as follows:

That the maximum total floor area of a secondary dwelling be increased from 130 square metres (1400 square feet) to 193 square metres (2077.43 square feet) to permit construction of a new principal dwelling.

(Area L/7442 Highway #24)

4) The Board concurred with a request of Rogers for a new cell phone tower at 4953 Cariboo Hwy 97 South (108 Mile Ranch - beside Spruce Hill Resort/Spa)

5) The Board appointed Chad Stump, David Zirnhelt, and Megan Flatt to the Agricultural Development Advisory Committee for a two-year term ending December 31, 2025

6) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings/Adoption to Development Procedures, Guidelines and Fees Bylaw No. 5458, 2024 - background here

7) The Board considered requests of the Agricultural Development Advisory Committee, as follows:

* CRD initiate developing a Drought Preparedness Plan and a Drought Emergency Response protocol

* Allocation of staff time to investigate the development of Livestock Exclusion Fencing as a Local Service Area Function

and referred the issue of fencing to Committee of the Whole for discussion regarding Highway 24/accountability for fencing as well as writing the Agriculture Development Advisory Committee to advising them of the status of their requests... 

Community Services:

a) The Board approved a request of the 108 Mile Ranch Community Association for $1,000 for the purpose of a mutigenerational Family Day event.  Funding to be provided by the Area "G" Grant for Assistance budget

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

Protective Services:

a) The Board was provided a verbal update from the Regional Fire Chief (R. Hollander)

Finance:

a) The Board received/ratified the Monthly Expenditures Board Summary Report for the month of December 2023, in the amount of $4,090,366.54

Administration:

a) The Board received notice from the North Central Local Government Association regarding 2024 Resolutions and directed Staff to prepare 2024 NCLGA Resolutions concerning Emergency and Disaster Management Act - request for regulation specific to RD's; ALC Letter of Intent and that Director Forseth will investigate the name change of UBCM to include local governments/Indigenous govts and report back to the Board

b) The Board agreed to cancel the Committee of the Whole meeting and Board on the Road meeting originally scheduled for June 13 and 14, 2024 and hold a Board Meeting on June 20th, 2023 to accommodate the calendar of the CAO/Deputy CAO respecting their attendance at a LGMA (Local Government Management Association of BC) Conference in June 2024 

Resolved - That Staff/Director Sjostrom be authorized to look into holding a "Board on the Road" event on May 23/24, 2024 in Electoral Area "A"

c) The Board received the Consent Calendar as of January 12th, 2024

Committee/Commission Recommendations:

a) The Board received minutes of recently held Committee or Commission meetings

b) The Board endorsed 2 recommendations from a previous meeting of the South Cariboo Joint Committee, as follows:

* THAT the agenda item summary from Kathie Vilkas, Regional Economic & Community Development Officer, dated November 30, 2023, regarding 2024 Annual Intake Grants for Assistance South Cariboo applications requiring follow-up and further discussion, be received. Further, that $5,000 be approved for the Cariboo Family Enrichment Centre's age-friendly program apportioned as $1,500 from Electoral Area G, $1,000 from Electoral Area H, and $1,000 from Electoral Area L, and that the organization be requested to attend as a delegation in June 2024 to provide an update on the program.

AND THAT $3,000 be approved for the Interlakes Community Centre Society towards bingo equipment from Electoral Area L.

* THAT the South Cariboo Recreation Centre site plan be received. Further, that an open house be held in January or February for recreation user groups to provide information on their current activities and future plans to the Joint Committee.

c) The Board endorsed 2 recommendations from a previous meeting of the Central Cariboo Joint Committee, as follows:

* That the Central Cariboo Joint Committee commit to prioritizing the Esler Fields Access Road Project for future grant opportunities and that staff be directed to prioritize such grant opportunities."

* That funds be allocated in the 2024 Grants For Assistance budget for the Social Planning Council of Williams Lake, to be allocated as $5,000 from Electoral Area D, $2,500 from Electoral Area E and $2,500 from Electoral Area F, for a total of $10,000.

Corporate Bylaws:

a) The Board gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings to West Fraser Fire Protection Service Boundary Amendment Bylaw No. 5459, 2024 

b) The Board gave 1st, 2nd and 3rd Readings to Forest Grove Fire Protection Service Area Expansion Bylaw No. 5460, 2024

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

c) At the request of Director Forseth, the Board deferred consideration of Central Cariboo Search and Rescue Service Amendment Bylaw No. 5461, 2024 until the stakeholders of the Central Cariboo Search and Rescue Service (CRD Areas D,E,F,G) as well as the Director for Williams Lake (S. Rathor) can discuss Bylaw #5461, 2024 in further detail 

Directors' Requests:

1) At the request of Director Coleman (District of Wells) -- the Board appointed Directors Massier and LeBourdais to the Osisko Development Table

Closed (In-Camera) Board Session:

At 1:00pm -- the Board recessed to a Closed (In-Camera) Board Session as per Sections 92 and 90(1a,b,g,k,l - appointment, award, litigation, negotiations and strategic planning) of the Community Charter 

At 2:43pm -- the Board resumed its' Open Meeting 

The Board adjourned at 3:03pm