Wildfire Risk Reduction project planned for Dog Creek Road

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

BC Wildfire Service in partnership with the Cariboo Chilcotin Natural Resource District will be conducting pile burning along Dog Creek Road on the northeast side of the road, across from Ottoman Drive and on the northeast side of the road, behind Centaur Drive and Cataline Drive.

 

Completing this project will help reduce the wildfire hazard in an area near Williams Lake. The work that is remaining for this project is the burning of the debris piles located throughout the twelve hectare area. Cariboo-Chilcotin Natural Resource District staff will be working to ensure operational services meet the fuel management prescription(s) specifications and project objectives.

 

Burning will happen on any day that the venting forecast is good or fair from December 2, 2024, until March 31, 2025. Smoke and flames will be visible from Dog Creek Road and from the south side of Williams Lake.

 

The Ministry of Forests has completed wildfire risk reduction projects within the district, including on Fox Mountain, Airport Road, South Lakeside, Dog Creek, Chimney Valley, and Tinmusket.

 

For more information regarding the Ventilation Index and Open Burning and Smoke Control Regulations, please visit: Ventilation Index - Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)

 

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions and air quality advisories, visit the BC Wildfire Service website at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=IB-24---Dog-Creek-Pile-Burning&utm_source=Envoke-IB---Central-Zone&utm_term=Wildfire-Risk-Reduction-project-planned-for-Dog-Creek-Road-

 

Exposure to smoke from wildfires or burning can irritate eyes and respiratory tracts and worsen pre-existing lung and heart conditions. If your area is impacted by smoke:

Run portable air cleaners with windows and doors closed. Both commercial and home-made units (https://rb.gy/90uh5s) can be effective if operated properly.

Reduce the length and intensity of outdoor activities.

Manage pre-existing conditions and seek medical care if you have severe symptoms.

 

Learn more about protecting health from smoke online: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke

 

For more information, please contact:

Shelly Harnden, RFT – Contract Manager

Land and Resource Coordinator

Cariboo-Chilcotin Forest District

Phone: 250-706-6276

Email: Shelly.Harnden@gov.bc.ca

Chilcotin River Landslide Update

Courtesy of the Cariboo RD's Emergency Operations Centre:

Information checkpoints in Farwell Canyon will soon be disbanded. Community information officers from Tl’esqox and Yuneŝit’in have been stationed in this area since the Chilcotin River landslide occurred on July 31, 2024. They have been present to inform people entering the area of the continued risks in the area following the initial landslide.

There is an area of high-risk for further landslides along the riverbanks near Farwell Canyon Bridge. A highly visible fault line on the riverbank south of Farwell Canyon Bridge is of immediate concern, and the area below it is not safe for public access. While the primary concern remains the area near Farwell Canyon bridge due to the high level of public access and the presence of Indigenous fishing sites, other areas along the Chilcotin River may also pose significant hazards to public safety.

Because of the continued uncertainty about slope stability following the release of water on August 5th from the landslide debris dam, crown lands along the riverbed and riverbanks of the Chilcotin River are subject to a Crown Land Closure issued on September 18, 2024. This area extends from south of Dante’s Inferno Park to the confluence with the Fraser River. Hazard assessments are ongoing in this area and will inform further action to ensure public safety.

Public access to this area is strictly prohibited without authorization from the Province of B.C. to access the area. This instrument remains in place until January 25, 2025, but may be extended by the provincial government. At this time, Farwell Canyon Road remains open to the public and is not subject to the Crown Land Closure.

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments/Boards of Education Meetings - Week of Dec 2-6, 2024

During the week of December 2-6, 2024: the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments/Boards of Education will meet, as follows:

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

* DRAFT Capital Budget for 2025

* DRAFT 2025 Legislative/Community Support and Council Projects Budgets

* Request from Quesnel Junior School and Correlieu Ski and Snowboard Teams for funding

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake - Public Hearing and Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024, starting at 6pm in WL Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

1) Public Hearing at 6pm 

* 1138 Lakeview Crescent (Zoning/OCP Amendments) 

View the full Public Hearing Agenda here

2) Regular Council to follow Public Hearing.  On the Agenda:

* Consideration of 3rd Reading for Official Community Plan Amendment Bylaw No. 2382 and Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 2383

* Annual Appointment items

* Recommendations for endorsement from November 27th Central Joint Committee meeting

* Asset Management Policy, Strategy and Roadmap - Approval

* UBCM Community to Community (C2C) Funding Application

* Indigenous Relations Working Group Recommendations

* Recommendations from Nov 26th, 2024 Committee of Whole Council for endorsement

* Verbal Updates re: Atlantic Power and Water Treatment Plant

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District -- All meetings, as noted below, take place in the Cariboo RD's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake)

1) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District/Regular Board Meeting on Friday, December 6th at 9:30am.  On the Agenda:

* Information Items (4) -- Rick Hansen Foundation/Accessibility Certification; H Recognized as a Top Employer in Canada; CCRHD Delegations List and Update from School District 27 - Childcare Centre at Columneetza

Due to technical issues, the Meeting Agenda is NOT currently available on the Cariboo Regional District website but efforts are underway to rectify this issue ASAP... 

2) Cariboo Regional District/Regular Board Meeting on Friday, December 6th at 9:45am or upon adjournment of the CCRHD Board Meeting (whichever occurs first).  On the Agenda:

* Land Use Matters (Area Directors' only) 

* Delegations (2) -- Jason Ward, Senior Wildfire Officer, Prevention re: fire plans and bans in the Chilcotin & Nicole Pressey, Regional Agrologist, and Greg Bartle, Land Use Planner, from the Ministry of Agriculture and Food re: Land Use Planning for Agriculture

* 2025 Annual Intake Grants for Assistance in Electoral Area B

* Year-Round Grant for Assistance Application – Lone Butte Historical Association

*2025 Annual Intake Grants for Assistance Request from Tsilhqot’in National Government

* Committee Recommendations for approval

* Recommendations from Chair Wagner to External Organizations 

* Closed Board Session (Section 90.1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter

Due to technical issues, the Meeting Agenda is NOT currently available on the Cariboo Regional District website but efforts are underway to rectify this issue ASAP... 

Quesnel Council Highlights - Nov. 26th, 2024 meeting

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

MLA Prince George Cariboo-North Sheldon Clare 

MLA Clare came as a delegation and introduced his Senior Constituency Assistant for Quesnel, Adam Schaan, noting that the MLA office would remain in City Hall.  In Prince George, Jonathan Raine will serve as his Constituency Assistant and the office location is still to be determined.

MLA Clare expressed his dedication to working with Quesnel City Council to advance mutually beneficial goals and, expressed his thanks to former MLA Oakes for her service to the region.

Committees

The Financial Sustainability & Audit Committee is diligently reviewing the 2025 Capital budget.

As per City Development & Review Policy IWC-15, the Policy and Bylaw Committee is conducting a five-year review of Council and Administrative policies, and have updated or reaffirmed Council Communication Policies 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6.

The Housing Solutions Table has been reviewing the North Cariboo Interim Housing Needs Assessment, which will see changes to our Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaws, reviewing short-term rental accommodation and other housing solutions for our community.

Quesnel SPCA

Quesnel City Council approved extending the contract with the SPCA to act as the pound-keeper for the City for an additional year.

Forestry Initiatives:

Dragon Mountain

The wildfire incidents near Green Mountain (located beside Dragon Mountain) in the Quesnel area in 2017 and 2023 underscore the vulnerability of our communication towers, which are located on the top of Dragon Mountain.

Recent events, such as the destruction of communication towers in the Fishpot Lake area near Nazko in 2017 due to insufficient protective measures highlight the urgency of fuel management in these areas.

Quesnel City Council approved providing a letter to Elected Officials and Responsible Officials from the Provincial Government to urge wildfire risk reduction activities both within and adjacent to Dragon Mountain Provincial Park.

Three Rivers Community Forest

Since 2020, the governments from: Lhtako Dene, Nazko, ?Esdilagh and Lhoosk’uz First Nations along with the City of Quesnel, have been working on securing a Community Forest Agreement (CFA) through the Provincial area based tenure program. The CFA for the Quesnel area is called the Three Rivers Community Forest (TRCF) and is jointly held by all governments through a Limited Partnership Agreement.

Now that the area-based tenure has been secured, the next steps in the Three Rivers Community Forest process are to: hire a General Manager, sign onto a Forest Stewardship Plan (and eventually a Forest Landscape Plan), meet with local licensees to begin transition planning for existing cutting permits and forestry obligations within the tenure area, and continue our process of public engagement and community outreach. It is anticipated that the TRCF will be in operation by the end of 2025.

Development Services

Quesnel City Council approved construction of a single detached family dwelling on Leonard Street, with subjects as the build falls within the Hillside Hazard Development Permit Area.  A geotechnical report has been submitted with recommendations for development.

Comprehensive Fees Bylaw

Council approved the first three readings of the bylaw to update the City’s fees for 2025. Increases include a 10% increase to water utility fees ($26.68 per single-family residence), a 5% increase to sewer utility fees ($15.36 per single-family residence), and $15 for garbage collection per single-family residence.

These increases are required to keep up with inflation and provide for future capital needs of these services.

Other fee increases included landfill, museum, cemetery, and airport fees.

Correspondence

Quesnel City Council provided the following:

• Endorsement of the Mental Health and Addictions Accord (“Accord”) identifying shared principles and actions to promote improvements in mental health and addictions services across Central and Northern British Columbia, providing confirmation following the November 13-14, 2024 Mental Health and Addictions symposium.
• Support for the Quesnel Curling Club bid to host the 2026 BC Men's and Women's Curling Championships  (January 5-11, 2026) with a financial allocation from Council Initiatives toward the West Fraser Centre ice fees, up to $5417.00.

Bylaws

City of Quesnel Comprehensive Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw 1969, 2024 - First Three Readings

City of Quesnel False Alarm Bylaw 1970, 2024 - First Three Readings

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings: Week of Nov 25-29, 2024

The following local governments or Boards of Education of the Cariboo-Chilcotin will be holding meetings during the week of November 25-29, 2024, as follows:

Quesnel - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 26th, 2024 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Newly elected PG-North Cariboo MLA Sheldon Clare 

* Reports from Committees'

* SPCA Operating Agreement

* Three Rivers Community Forest

* Wildfire Risk Reduction in the Dragon Mountain Area 

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole Session in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Mark Savard from Cariboo Disc Golf Club regarding Boitanio Park Disc Golf Course and Maintenance

* Williams Lake Regional Airport Utility Plan

* 2025 Council Appointments

* Full Time GIS Clerk Position

* Resume discussions on 2025 Budget/2025-2029 Five Year Financial Plan

View the full Meeting Agenda here

100 Mile House - All meetings on Tuesday, November 26th, 2024, as noted below, to be held in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue):

1) Committee of the Whole at 3pm -- On the Agenda:

* Delegation: TRUE Consulting re: drought study findings, water source and treatment

options

* Discussion Items: First St. & Birch Ave Intersection and 721 Cariboo Trail - Zoning

Application

View the full Agenda here

2) Regular Council at 5pm -- On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Presentation from J. Keough in respect of BC Transit services in 100 Mile House

* South Cariboo Interim Housing Needs Study

* Grants for Assistance for 2025 (District of 100 Mile House portion with Cariboo RD Areas G,H,L) 

View the full Agenda here 

3) 100 Mile Development Corporation - 5:30pm (or upon adjournment of the Regular Council meeting):

* Draft 2025 Operating Budget

* 2024 Financial Plan Amendment

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District: 

1) Central Cariboo Joint Committee -- Regular Meeting on Wednesday, November 27th at 5:30pm in the Rick Hansen Boardroom, Williams Lake City Hall.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Jada Basi, Principal, CitySpaces Consulting Ltd. - Presentation of Interim Housing Needs Report for City of Williams Lake and Central Cariboo Region

* Consideration of Joint Grants in Aide/Assistance for 2025

View the full Agenda here

Operating Permit granted for Cariboo Gold Mine

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

A provincial statutory decision-maker has granted Barkerville Gold Mines, owned by Osisko Development Corporation, an operating permit under the Mines Act for its Cariboo Gold Mine in Wells, in east-central B.C.

The permitting process for the project was completed in 13 months, following a rigorous technical review conducted by a qualified team of technical experts in collaboration with First Nations.

Cariboo Gold is an underground mine that will employ approximately 634 people during construction and see an initial investment of $137 million and another $918 million over the life of the mine. The project will have the capacity to process approximately 1.1 million tonnes per year of gold-bearing ore. It will include underground mining over 16 years, ore milling at the Quesnel River mine, approximately 58 kilometres southeast of Quesnel, storage of waste rock at the Bonanza Ledge Mine near Barkerville, and a transmission line from the Quesnel area to the mine.

A permit under the Environmental Management Act (EMA) for the Cariboo Gold project is under consideration with a statutory decision-maker in the Ministry of Environment and Parks. A decision is expected in the coming weeks. An EMA permit would provide authority for the company to introduce wastes into the environment while protecting public health and the environment. The EMA regulates industrial and municipal waste discharge, pollution, hazardous waste and contaminated site remediation.

This is the first project entirely assessed under the new 2018 Environmental Assessment Act that has been granted a Mines Act permit.

The Environmental Assessment Office completed its assessment of the mine project with extensive consultation from experts, First Nations, including the Lhtako Dené, Xatśūll, and Williams Lake First Nations, government agencies and the public.

The Environmental Assessment Act was modernized to enhance public confidence, transparency and meaningful participation, to advance reconciliation with First Nations, and to deliver stronger environmental protections, while supporting sustainable economic development.

Learn More:

Cariboo Gold project page on BC mines website: https://mines.nrs.gov.bc.ca/p/6542d850dc00aa001b11a77b/overview

Cariboo Gold project page on EPIC: https://projects.eao.gov.bc.ca/p/5d40cc5b4cb2c7001b1336b8/project-details

Provincial environmental assessment certificate granted for Cariboo Gold: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023ENV0060-001574

Water Supply Given a Clean Bill of Health in Wells, BC

Courtesy of the District of Wells:

Recent water quality testing conducted by the District of Wells (District) validates that District water supply meets provincial water quality standards as safe to drink.  

The District had been under a precautionary Water Quality Advisory for lead in the water supply since January 2021.  

With recent testing meeting all water sampling protocols, lead in the water supply is now within the Guidelines for Canadian Water Quality maximum concentration of 0.005 mg/L (5 parts per billion).  Northern Health, holding responsibility for all water quality advisories, has confirmed the safety of drinking water in the District of Wells.  

The recent completion of the $640,000 water treatment facility upgrade also assures water quality meets all non-lead related water quality standards.  

While the District of Wells water supply meets all water quality guidelines for lead in water, the following practice is recommended: 

• Flush any stagnant water from your home’s plumbing pipes by letting your cold-water tap run for 1 to 5 minutes or until the water turns colder. This should be done before drinking or cooking, first thing in the morning or any other time the plumbing system has not been used for several hours. 

• Always use cold water for cooking or drinking as hot water can increase the leaching of lead. 

• Water filtration systems, although not necessary, can be used to remove lead from drinking water if concerned. Lead will not enter the body through skin or by breathing in vapours while showering or bathing. 

In British Columbia, water quality is protected by legislation requiring water suppliers to regularly perform water quality tests and treat water accordingly if necessary.  The District of Wells complies with all safety protocols.  

For District of Wells residents, the bottled water being supplied will be discontinued immediately.  Please return all empty water jugs to the Wells Community Hall on Sanders Avenue

For More Information: 

BC Ministry of Health:  

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-landwater/water/water-quality/drinking-water-quality 

Government of Canada Drinking Water Guidelines:

https://www.canada.ca/en/healthcanada/services/environmental-workplace-health/water-quality/drinking-water/canadian-drinkingwater-guidelines.html 

Williams Lake Council Highlights - Nov 19th, 2024 mtg

Present: Acting Mayor S.Boehm and Councillors Delainey, Flaspohler, Lyons, Moses and Nelson 

Meeting called to order at 6:00pm

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

Meeting Agenda approved - click here

Minutes of the previous City Council meeting held November 5th, 2024 was adopted

Meeting video here 

Delegation: 

A delegation from Interior Health and Central Interior Rural Division of Family Practice appeared before Council to provide a Quarterly Update - presentation here

Following the delegation's presentation - A Question/Answer period ensued 

Acting Mayor Boehm, on behalf of Council, thanked the delegation for their time/information

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated November 7 and 14, 2024

2) Council approved requesting BC's Minister of Municipal Affairs/Housing (Hon. Ravi Kahlon) to grant powers pursuant to Section 781 of the Local Government Act, for the disposition (write-off) of $60,888.15 uncollectible property taxes receivable, including penalty and interest amounts for property at 351 Hodgson Road

3) Council approved a 2025 application to Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) for a grant of up to $50,000 to host an intern under the Local Government Internship Program and that Council commits to providing a financial contribution of $10,000 and staffing resources to host an intern and to providing training and professional development opportunities for the intern, if the application is successful

4) Council deferred consideration of the preliminary 2025 budget, 2025-2029 financial plan and 10-year capital plan to the next Committee of the Whole meeting

5) Council approved the amended Statement of Works (SOW) provided by Recycle BC and directed the Mayor and Corporate Officer to sign the amendment on behalf of the City

6) Council approved moving to next design phases for the Water Treatment Plant based on the use of chloramines for disinfection

7) Council adopted the following Bylaws:

i) Parks and Public Land Bylaw No. 2419, 2024

ii) Bylaw Notice Enforcement Amendment Bylaw No. 2421, 2024 (Parks and Public Lands Fines)

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillor S. Nelson

8) Council proclaimed the month of November 2024 as "Lung Cancer Awareness Month" in the City of Williams Lake

9) Council received the "Council Information Package" as of November 19th, 2024

Council received verbal updates regarding progress on Atlantic Power and the Water Treatment Plant

Acting Mayor Boehm welcomed Cariboo RD Area "D" Director Steve Forseth to tonight's Williams Lake City Council meeting

Members of Council then reported on their recent activities 

Resolution to Close the Meeting to the Public:

At 7:47pm -- Council adopted the following Resolution:

That Council now resolve into a Closed Meeting, following adjournment of the Open Meeting of Council - according to Section 92 of the Community Charter for discussion of items identified under Section 90 (1) of the Community Charter:

(1c) labour relations or other employee relations

Council adjourned at 7:48pm 

New BC Cabinet appointed!

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

BC Premier David Eby has appointed a new cabinet that is ready to listen to British Columbians and deliver on the core challenges people are facing – a team that combines years of experience and fresh perspectives from outside of government.

“At a time when there is a lot of worry and uncertainty about the future, British Columbians have asked us to work together and get things done that make a real difference in their daily lives,” said Premier Eby. “This experienced and capable team will be focused on addressing the priority issues we heard loud and clear from British Columbians. We’re honoured to have been given the opportunity to tackle these serious challenges.”

The new cabinet’s top priorities will be bringing down costs for families, strengthening health care, making communities safer and growing the economy so everyone feels the benefits. Foundational to this work is a commitment to build partnerships with Indigenous communities and take action on climate change, both key to building a more prosperous B.C. for future generations.

“These are big challenges and tackling them all will take time. Getting there will take listening and learning from British Columbians of different perspectives,” Premier Eby said. “While British Columbians may sometimes disagree, we all want the same basic things in life – a good paycheque, a home we can afford in a safe community and high-quality health care that’s there when we need it. By working together on these common challenges, we can build a brighter future for everyone.”

The new provincial cabinet reflects the diversity and strengths of British Columbia. There will be more women than men in cabinet. Key portfolios are also filled by people with relevant professional and community experience, which will bring a real-world perspective to tackling today’s big challenges.

There will be separate ministries for Energy and Climate Solutions and Mining and Critical Minerals, reflecting the government’s commitment to leverage B.C.’s strength as a clean-energy powerhouse with the critical minerals that are essential to growing the clean economy.

The new cabinet includes 23 ministers and four ministers of state, and is supported in its work by 14 parliamentary secretaries. The cabinet is as follows:

• Premier: David Eby
  • Minister of State for Local Governments and Rural Communities: Brittny Anderson
• Agriculture and Food: Lana Popham
• Attorney General and Deputy Premier: Niki Sharma
• Children and Family Development: Grace Lore
• Citizens’ Services: George Chow
• Education and Child Care: Lisa Beare
  • Minister of State for Child Care and Children and Youth with Support Needs: Jodie Wickens
• Emergency Management and Climate Readiness: Kelly Greene
• Energy and Climate Solutions: Adrian Dix
• Environment and Parks: Tamara Davidson
• Finance: Brenda Bailey
• Forests: Ravi Parmar
• Health: Josie Osborne
• Housing and Municipal Affairs: Ravi Kahlon
• Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation: Christine Boyle
• Infrastructure: Bowinn Ma
• Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation: Diana Gibson
  • Minister of State for Trade: Rick Glumac
• Labour: Jennifer Whiteside
• Mining and Critical Minerals: Jagrup Brar
• Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills: Anne Kang
• Public Safety and Solicitor General: Garry Begg
  • Minister of State for Community Safety and Integrated Services: Terry Yung
• Social Development and Poverty Reduction: Sheila Malcolmson
• Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport: Spencer Chandra Herbert
• Transportation and Transit and House Leader: Mike Farnworth
• Water, Land and Resource Stewardship: Randene Neill

The Parliamentary Secretaries are:

• Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives: Jessie Sunner
• Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture: Harwinder Sandhu
• Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity: Jennifer Blatherwick
• Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Development: Steve Morissette
• Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors’ Services and Long-Term Care: Susie Chant
• Parliamentary Secretary for Rural Health: Debra Toporowski
• Parliamentary Secretary for Mental Health and Addictions: Amna Shah
• Parliamentary Secretary for Asia Pacific Trade: Paul Choi
• Parliamentary Secretary for Labour: Darlene Rotchford
• Parliamentary Secretary for International Credentials: Sunita Dhir
• Parliamentary Secretary for Accessibility: Dana Lajeunesse
• Parliamentary Secretary for Community Development and Non-profits: Joan Phillip
• Parliamentary Secretary for Transit: George Anderson
• Parliamentary Secretary for Arts and Film: Nina Krieger

Wildfire Risk Reduction Project planned for Sisters Creek Recreation Area

Courtesy of the BC Wildfire Service:

B.C. Wildfire Service and the B.C. Ministry of Forests, operating within the Quesnel Natural Resource District, will be conducting wildfire risk reduction treatments and pile burning activities at Sisters Creek Recreation Area in the Community of Kersley. The treatment area is located approximately 20 kilometers south of Quesnel and two kilometers west of Highway 97.

 

Completing this project will help reduce the wildfire hazard around Kersley as well as help restore the grown-in stands to a more natural/desirable state. This project will be approximately eight hectares of manual hand treatment on both sides of roads and trails within the Sisters Creek Recreation Area. The scope of the work involves removing the surface and ladder fuels, as well as pruning and thinning out the forest to create tree crown separation and reduce the risk of a high-intensity crown fires. Crews of five to twelve people will be working on both sides of the road and into the forested area, please use caution and pay attention to signage when recreating on trail and road networks within this area.

 

Wildfire risk reduction activities are expected to start November 15, 2024 eventually transitioning to pile burning and fuel clean up. Burning is expected to begin on any day that the venting forecast is fair until March 20, 2025. Ignitions and burning will only proceed if weather and site conditions are suitable and allow smoke to dissipate.

 

Smoke and flames may be visible from Kersley, Highway 97, and surrounding areas.

 

The Ministry of Forests has completed several wildfire risk reduction projects within the resource district, including areas around Nazko, Tibbles Road, Marsh Road, and Barkerville.

 

Fire is a natural process in many of B.C.’s ecosystems. The BC Wildfire Service works regularly with land managers to undertake fuel management activities (including the use of prescribed burns), to help reduce the severity of future wildfires and related threats to communities.

 

Learn more about prescribed burning online at prescribedfire.ca or at BCWS cultural and prescribed fire.

 

Exposure to smoke from wildfires or prescribed burning can irritate eyes and respiratory tracts and worsen pre-existing lung and heart conditions. If your area is impacted by smoke:

• Run portable air cleaners with windows and doors closed. Both commercial and home-made units (https://rb.gy/90uh5s) can be effective if operated properly.
• Reduce the length and intensity of outdoor activities.
• Manage pre-existing conditions, and seek medical care if you have severe symptoms.

 

Learn more about protecting health from smoke online: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke

 

Stay up-to-date on the latest BC Wildfire news on:

• Facebook
• X (formerly Twitter)
• YouTube
• The BC Wildfire Service mobile app (download it now on Apple or Android!)

 

Contact:

Vincent Luu, RPF

Land and Resource Specialist

Quesnel Natural Resource District

Ministry of Forests

Land.Resources.DQU@gov.bc.ca,

250-992-4400

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings: Week of November 18-22, 2024

During the week of November 18-22, 2024 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments or Boards of Education will be holding meetings, as follows:

Wells: Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 19th, 2024 at 3pm in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue) and via Zoom.  When available, the Meeting Agenda can be viewed here

Quesnel: Regular Meeting of the Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee on Wednesday, November 20th, 2024 at 9am in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* 2025 Capital Budget

* 3rd Quarter 2024 update on Capital Budget

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Williams Lake: 

1) Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, November 19th, 2024 at 6pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Interior Health re: Quarterly Presentation

* Request to Write-Off Uncollectible Taxes at 351 Hodgson Road

* NDIT Grant Application - 2025 Local Government Internship Program

* 2025 Budget and 2025-2029 Financial Plan and 10-Year Capital Plan - Preliminary Approval by Council

* Closed Council Meeting (to follow Open Council Meeting) -- Section 90(1c - labour) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

2) Special Closed Council Meeting on Thursday, November 21st, 2024 at 1:30pm under the provisions of Sections 90(1c,j - labour and information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter.  View the closed meeting notice here

Cariboo Regional District:

1) South Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus -- Regular Meeting on Monday, November 18th, 2024 at 11:40am in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House).  On the Agenda:

* 2025 Caucus Schedule

View the full Meeting Schedule here

2) South Cariboo Joint Committee -- Regular Meeting on Monday, November 18th, 2024 at 12:00pm in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: BC Transit re: discuss 100 Mile House Transit Operations and regional contract RFP

* South Cariboo Interim Housing Needs Assessment Report for Endorsement

* Request from South Cariboo Community Enhancement Foundation re: Funding Request

* Grants for Assistance Applications

* Closed Committee Session -- Section 90(1j - information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter

View the full Meeting Agenda here

3) Special Closed Meeting of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board -- Thursday, November 21st, 2024 at 2:30pm under the provision of Section 90(1j - information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter.  View the Open Meeting Agenda here

City of Williams Lake Endowment Fund Holiday Campaign Starts with $50,000 Contribution

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake is rolling out a Holiday Campaign starting November 12 to help raise funds for the City of Williams Lake Endowment Fund, which was established in 2021.

Thanks to multiple significant contributions from a private donor and a matching gift from Northern Development Initiative Trust, the fund is already valued at roughly $375,000.

Once the fund grows large enough, grants will be offered to community groups and organizations in Williams Lake. The goal is to generate consistent community funding through interest earned on the fund for years to come.

The City of Williams Lake has started the 2024 campaign with a $50,000 contribution to the fund. 

“Now we need the community’s help to reach the City’s next milestone of $1 million, at which point we can start donating the interest and make a real difference in the community,” said City of Williams Lake Manager of Economic Development Beth Veenkamp.

“Every dollar received adds to the funding pool, and interest earned is generated to flow back into the fund and, eventually, the community for generations to come.”

While the Prince George Community Foundation provides administrative support, the City of Williams Lake is responsible for growing the fund and retains control over how the interest income will be spent in the community.

Tax receipts for the City’s Endowment Fund will be issued from PGCF, but donors can be assured funds will remain within the Williams Lake fund and will continue to grow.  

“Contributing to the Williams Lake Endowment Fund is a great way to leave a lasting legacy to our community,” Williams Lake Mayor Surinderpal Rathor said. “This is a fantastic opportunity to invest in the future of Williams Lake and, for those of us who have been lucky enough to call Williams Lake home, a chance to pay it forward to generations to come.”

Stay tuned to the City’s Facebook and Instagram pages from now through until the end of December for more on the Endowment Fund.

For more information on the City of Williams Lake Endowment Fund and how to donate, visit: www.williamslake.ca/950/City-of-Williams-Lake-Endowment-Fund

Remembrance Day 2024

 

City of Williams Lake invites Residents to Shape Future of Active Transportation

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake invites the entire community to get involved in the active transportation network planning process.

The City is teaming up with Fraser Basin Council and Urban Systems to develop an Active Transportation Network Plan (ATNP) and is seeking community feedback. 

Active transportation includes all human-powered transportation modes, including walking, cycling, skateboarding, using a mobility aid, or e-scooters and e-bikes.

Through collaboration with community members, the ATNP will create a complete and comfortable active transportation network in Williams Lake for people of all ages and abilities, as well as help guide decision-making and investments related to active transportation improvements.

The grant-funded project aims to make it safer and easier to get around by walking, cycling, or rolling throughout the community.

“Providing more options for active transportation can play an important role in promoting a healthy, equitable and accessible community,” said Jane Wellburn, Fraser Basin Council Regional Manager, Cariboo Chilcotin. “Input from community members will form the foundation of this project and we would like to hear from a range of voices to create an ATNP that reflects the community’s active transportation interests and needs.”

To help to facilitate discussion and collaboration, the City has formed an Active Transportation Working Group with multiple user groups who will be involved in the project.

Throughout the planning process there will be a variety of additional opportunities for the community to provide input. To launch the community engagement process, community members are encouraged to participate in a community survey (https://www.surveymonkey.ca/r/WL_ATNP). Paper copies will also be available at Williams Lake City Hall and at various locations throughout the community.

“The survey will help us better understand how residents currently move around the community for their daily needs, identify current challenges and explore future opportunities for active transportation,” Wellburn said.

The deadline to participate in the survey is Monday, December 2, 2024.

To stay informed about the Active Transportation Network Plan visit the project website at

www.williamslake.ca/1025/Active-Transportation-in-Williams-Lake or follow the City of Williams Lake on Facebook, Instagram and X.

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government/Board of Education Meetings: Week of November 12-15

As a result of the Remembrance Day Long Weekend: Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments or Boards' of Education will have a shortened work week, as follows

School District #28 (Quesnel) - Regular Board of Education meeting to be held on Wednesday, November 13th at 7pm in the SD28 Boardroom (401 North Star Rd, Quesnel).  On the Agenda:

* Annual Elections (Chair, Vice-Chair, Committee reps.)

* Reports of the Superintendent

View the full Agenda here

School District #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) -- Committee Meetings, as noted below, at the SD27 Administration Office (350 2nd Avenue, Williams Lake)... 

1) Finance/Facilities Committee -- Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 12th at 4:15pm.  On the Agenda:

* Multi-Year Financial Plan

* Facility Rental and Use Update

* Transportation Update 

View the full Agenda here

2) Education Committee -- Regular Meeting on Wednesday, November 13th at 4pm.  On the Agenda:

* Draft - District Plan for Learner Success 2024 

* School Plans

View the full Agenda here

  

100 Mile House - Meetings, as noted below, all in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue) on Tuesday, November 12th, 2024

1) Committee of the Whole (Capital Budget 2025 Discussions) - to be held at 3:00pm

2) Regular Council Meeting - to be held at 5:00pm.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation -- Enbridge re: Sunrise Expansion Project 

* Bylaw Officer's report for October 2024

* Redevelopment of Wells in the District of 100 Mile House

* Municipal Facilities and Events Booking Policy 

View the full Agenda here

3) Committee of the Whole - to be held at 5:30pm or upon adjournment of the Regular Council Meeting.  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Hot July Nights 

* Discussion Items: First St. & Birch Ave Intersection and 721 Cariboo Trail - Zoning Application 

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District -- North Cariboo sub-regional Committee Meetings, as follows:

1) North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus -- Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 12th at 3pm in the Cariboo RD Quesnel Office (101-410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Emcon Services 

* 2025 North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus Meeting Schedule

* Discussion Items: North Cariboo Grants for Assistance and Future Delegations 

* Closed Caucus Meeting - Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

2) North Cariboo Joint Committee - Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 12th at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations: Introduction to the City of Quesnel's Event Coordinator, Ksenya Dorwart; Housing Needs Assessment - Presentation by Brendan Dawe – Urbanics and Quesnel Rodeo Club - President, Ray Jasper

* Administration Report #02/25 - Quarterly Budget Update

* Administration Report #01/25 - 2025 North Cariboo Recreation & Parks Budget & Financial Plan

View the full Agenda here