BC Premier announces immediate response, vows to defend B.C. against Trump tariffs

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

BC Premier David Eby is announcing immediate counter-measures to stand up for B.C.’s workers and businesses after the United States announced incoming 25% tariffs on Canadian goods and 10% tariffs on energy.

“President Trump’s 25% tariffs are a complete betrayal of the historic bond between our countries and a declaration of economic war against a trusted ally,” said Premier Eby. “As British Columbians, and as Canadians, we will stand strong and united in the face of this unprecedented attack.”

As a first step in response to the tariffs, Premier Eby announced immediate measures, including:

directing the BC Liquor Distribution Branch to immediately stop buying American liquor from “red states”, and remove the top-selling “red-state” brands from the shelves of public liquor stores; and

directing the B.C. government and Crown corporations to buy Canadian goods and services first.

The Province of British Columbia is assessing private-sector projects worth $20 billion with the goal of getting them approved as quickly as possible, and issuing their permits faster. These are expected to create 6,000 jobs in remote and rural communities. In addition, the Province has vowed to support and help implement the actions being taken by the federal government.  

Premier Eby added that additional measures are under consideration by B.C. and could be introduced in the coming days and weeks.

“We won’t back down or be bullied into becoming another state,” said Premier Eby. “Our Province is unified and resolute. We'll never stop standing up for B.C. and Canada.”

In January 2025, B.C. released its preliminary assessment of 25% tariffs. That analysis showed that B.C. could see a cumulative loss of $69 billion in economic activity between 2025 and 2028, along with the loss of more than 120,000 jobs. Estimates also indicated 25% tariffs on Canadian mineral exports alone will cost American companies over US$11 billion and have a profound effect on the U.S. defense industry, energy production, and manufacturing.

The B.C. government has a three-point approach to fight back against the tariffs and protect British Columbians:

i) respond to U.S. tariffs with tough counter-actions and outreach to American decision-makers;

ii) strengthen B.C.’s economy by expediting projects and supporting industry and workers; and

iii) diversify trade markets for products so British Columbia is less reliant on U.S. markets and customers.

To support B.C.’s strong tariff response and ensure actions are swift, responsive and co-ordinated, Premier Eby has established a trade and economic security task force to bring together business, labour and Indigenous leadership. The task force is co-chaired by Tamara Vrooman from the Vancouver International Airport, Jonathan Price from Teck, Bridgitte Anderson from the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade, and includes B.C.’s largest business organizations.

A new cabinet committee will act as a day-to-day war room, co-ordinating the whole-of-government approach the Province is taking to protect B.C.’s workers, businesses and economy.

Quick Facts:

54% of BC exports in 2023 were sent to the United States;

Wood, pulp and paper, metallic mineral and energy products combined make up approximately 67% of total goods exports.

The top five states for B.C.’s exports were: Washington ($9.8 billion), California ($3.2 billion), Illinois ($2.1 billion), Texas ($1.5 billion), Oregon ($1.3 billion)

Federation of Canadian Municipalities calls for coordinated Canada-U.S. response to tariffs

Courtesy of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities:

The Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) strongly condemns new U.S. tariffs on Canadian products and warns of the severe consequences they will have on local economies across the country.

“Municipalities are the backbone of the Canadian economy and the engine that drives growth, productivity and jobs,” said FCM President Rebecca Bligh who is also a Vancouver, BC City Councillor. “Tariffs put local businesses, workers, and supply chains at risk. Any response to the actions of the U.S. administration must be coordinated across all orders of government, as municipalities play a crucial role on Team Canada.”

Local governments have already been mobilizing. FCM, as the national voice of municipalities, has been working closely with federal and provincial partners and engaging with U.S. counterparts, including the U.S. Conference of Mayors and the National League of Cities, to defend local economies on both sides of the border.

To further ensure local governments’ voices are heard, FCM representatives will be joining Ontario Premier Doug Ford in Washinton, D.C., February 11-12, alongside the Council of the Federation delegation. On Feb. 6, President Bligh and FCM’s Big City Mayors' Caucus will meet with key federal ministers to ensure that Canada’s response protects local economies.

“Our priority is to defend Canadians' best interests and protect the economy during this uncertain time,” added Bligh. “Municipalities will be essential partners in Canada’s response. We need to act decisively to protect Canadian jobs and communities.”

FCM will represent municipalities in any discussions about tariffs, retaliation measures, or direct support from federal and provincial governments.

The Federation of Canadian Municipalities is the national voice of municipal governments, with over 2,100 members representing more than 92 percent of the Canadian population.

Steve's Meeting/Expense Report - January 2025

In the month of January 2025 -- I attended the following meetings or events:

* January 9th -- Webinar on Zero Emission housing construction and the role BC Local Government can play - more details at https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/standardized-offsite-supportive-coach-multiplex-designs-permitting-tickets-1084537523929?aff=oddtdtcreator

In addition, Monthly Meeting of the McLeese Lake Recreation Commission to provide a report respecting my activities as the Electoral Area "D" Director - Cariboo Regional District

* January 14-16: Attend 2025 BC Natural Resources Forum in Prince George, BC (along with the Cariboo Regional District Board Chair/Vice Chair, Cariboo Regional District Area "B" Director and the Mayors of Williams Lake and 100 Mile House).  More details at https://www.bciroc.ca/BPDwebsite/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/BCNRF-2025-Program-Single-Pages-Only-one-was-printed.pdf

* January 20 -- Met with Executive Director, Williams Lake and Area Social Planning Council 

* January 21  -- Attend meeting of "Communities Ending Poverty Leadership Table" 

* January 23 -- Attend meeting of Regional District Finance/Budget Committee

* January 24 -- Attend meeting of Regional Hospital District/Regional District Boards' 

* January 30 -- Attend monthly meeting of Williams Lake and District Chamber of Commerce 

In addition, responded to inquiries from Cariboo Regional District Area "D" constituents via social media, phone/text, email or in-person

Expenses submitted in the month of January 2025:

* January 14-16, 2025 -- $513.45 for registration at 2025 BC Natural Resources Forum and $254.92 for 2 nights (all-in costs included) at EconoLodge in Prince George.  Paid directly by the Cariboo Regional District and funded by the 2024 Area "D" Director Initiative Fund budget 

* January 23 -- $206 for attendance at Regional District Finance/Budget Committee

* January 24 -- $206 for attendance at Regional Hospital District/Regional District Boards' 

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings: Week of Feb 3-7, 2025

During the week of February 3-7, 2025 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments' will holding meetings, as follows:

Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, February 4th, 2025 at a time to be determined in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue) or via Zoom.  When available, the Agenda can be accessed here

Quesnel: 

1) Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, February 4th, 2025 at 5:30pm in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Committee Reports

* Consus Forest Management Lease Agreement

* West Fraser Timber Park Field House License of Occupation - Rock Tumblers

* 2024 Façade Improvement Report

* BC Hydro Energy Efficiency Programs

* Highway 97 Interconnector Project Assessment

* Reciprocal Building Inspection Services Agreement - Cariboo Regional District

View the full Agenda here

2) Financial Sustainability/Audit Committee - Regular Meeting on Wednesday, February 5th, 2025 at 9:00am in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Discussion of 2025 Budget including 2025 Budget Survey Results

* Closed Committee Meeting: Section 90(c + k = labour, negotiations) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, February 4th, 2025 at 6:00pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St).  On the Agenda: 

* Delegation: Madison Dahl, Cariboo Fire Centre (BCWS) regarding Overview of How to Access Wildfire Incident Information

* Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw Updates Project - RFP Award

* Support for WLSA (Williams Lake Stampede Association) NDIT Grant Application - Grandstand Electrical Upgrades

* Standing Updates -- Atlantic Power/Water Treatment Plant

* Closed Council Meeting -- Section 90(1g,i,j - litigation, legal advice and information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

100 Mile House - Public Hearing regarding Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 1439, 2025 to be held on Tuesday, February 4th at 6pm - 100 Mile House Community Hall (265 Birch Avenue)

Full background - click here

Finally - next Thursday/Friday (February 6/7, 2025) -- the 160 Area Directors from the 27 Regional Districts' of BC (including most of the 12 Area Directors of the Cariboo Regional District) will be holding their annual Forum in Richmond, BC at the Radisson Vancouver Airport Hotel.  The Agenda for this forum can be accessed at https://www.ubcm.ca/sites/default/files/2025-01/EAD%20Forum%20Agenda%202025_Updated_0_0.pdf

I will publish a Post Event Report from the Area Director Forum next weekend... 

Cariboo Regional District invites feedback on Budget 2025

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

Cariboo Regional District (CRD) is once again seeking feedback from residents about its proposed 2025 budget. The Board of Directors is seeking this feedback after providing preliminary approval of the budget on January 23, 2025.

Most property tax rates for CRD services are seeing minor increases or remaining the same as in 2024. However, significant assessment increases from new development and rising property values will result in increased taxation revenues. This will fund rising operating and maintenance costs along with any new project spending or savings generated for capital reserves.

A total of $2.49 million in additional property tax revenue will be requisitioned because of this budget. This increase is largely being driving by services in the Recreation, Fire Department, and Administration categories. Examples of how this increased funding will be used include:

• Increasing the amount of funding saved in capital reserves for recreation services in the North and Central Cariboo, which will safeguard funding for future project expenses.
• Financing a loan to rebuild the Red Bluff Firehall in the Quesnel Fringe Fire Protection Area.
• Replacing fire tenders for the Interlakes VFD and Barlow Creek VFD, which are essential for supplying water for firefighting in rural areas.
• Funding for new staffing positions, including a second Bylaw Enforcement Officer and a new Information and Privacy Coordinator.

More information will be available to residents on the Cariboo Regional District’s website, social media channels, and in sponsored advertisements. A flyer will also be sent out to residents of each electoral area to outline the proposed tax rates which could be applicable to their properties. Residents can participate and provide their feedback on the budget anytime up to February 19, 2025 by:

• Reviewing the CRD’s budgets, business plans, and decisions made so far at www.cariboord.ca/budget
• Tell us what you think at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/S983XZB

The results of the public feedback survey will be presented at the February 27, 2025 Finance-Budget Committee. Once reviewed, the Board will be able to consider approving the draft financial plan.

Enhanced visitor experiences planned for Barkerville historic site

Courtesy of the Government of BC:

Visitors can look forward to continuing strong operations, along with expanded hands-on demonstrations and interpretations at Barkerville Historic Town & Park and Cottonwood House Historic Site as part of the site operator’s proposed plan.

“Barkerville and Cottonwood House are among B.C.’s most iconic heritage destinations that visitors love to visit again and again,” said the Hon. Spencer Chandra Herbert, BC's Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “I can’t wait to see the new exhibits our partner, Barkerville Heritage Trust, is developing that will further enrich the storytelling and historical experience at this site.”

Barkerville’s resource-development history dates back to 1862, when Billy Barker struck gold at Williams Creek, ushering in the gold rush that drew fortune seekers from all over the world and made Barkerville the largest town in Western Canada at that time. Barkerville offers visitors a chance to step back in time to the late 1800s with its interpreters in period costumes, stagecoach rides and a collection of more than 500,000 artifacts, including 100 preserved heritage structures.

Barkerville Heritage Trust will continue as the site operator for the next seven years, with potential for renewal, as part of a new management contract with the Province. The trust is planning additional interactive activities to let visitors experience everyday life on the Cariboo homestead during the gold-rush era. This includes an increase in cultural programming, a greater diversity of stories that are part of B.C.’s heritage, particularly the culture and history of area First Nations, and more tourism offerings outside of the site’s peak season.

“We are thrilled to continue our stewardship of these cherished heritage assets, and with decades of experience operating Barkerville and Cottonwood House, our team has gained invaluable insights that will guide us as we work to deliver world-class tourism experiences for visitors over the next seven years,” said Al Richmond, chair of the Barkerville Heritage Trust. “We will be looking to expand the offerings at Cottonwood House, as well as sending Barkerville’s historical interpreters back to the Richfield Courthouse and continuing with our Indigenous and Chinese cultural interpretation. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support and concern from the public during last year’s wildfires, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to all who stood by us during that challenging time.”

The provincial heritage site’s popular 100 days of Barkerville season runs from May 31 until Sept. 7, 2025.

“Barkerville Heritage Trust is a trusted steward and operator of this iconic tourism destination in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast region,” said Amy Thacker, CEO, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism.  “Barkerville Historic Town & Park’s exhibits and interactive demonstrations for tourists and locals provide an incredible opportunity for people to explore, discover our history and create lasting memories. We look forward to sharing Barkerville’s plans with the community and inviting people to come back to see what’s new.”

The new heritage site management agreement begins on April 1, 2025. Barkerville Heritage Trust has operated the historical site since 2005.

Quick Facts:

Barkerville Heritage Trust was selected as the site operator for Barkerville Historic Town & Park and Cottonwood House Historic Site following a publicly posted request-for-proposals process in late 2024.

Barkerville Heritage Trust will receive more than $2 million in annual funding to support site operations, ensure conservation and maintain public access.

Since 2020, the Province has provided more than $55 million through various programs to celebrate, preserve and protect B.C.'s heritage assets.

Learn More:

To learn more about B.C. heritage sites, visit:

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/celebrating-british-columbia/historic-places/provincial-heritage-properties

To learn more about Barkerville Historic Town & Park, visit: https://www.barkerville.ca/ourstory/

Williams Lake Council Highlights - Jan 28th, 2025 mtg

Present: 

In Council Chambers:

Mayor Rathor; Councillors Delainey, Flaspohler, Moses and Nelson

Via Zoom:

Councillors S. Boehm and J. Lyons

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 approved - click here

Minutes of the previous City Council meeting was adopted 

Delegations:

1) Tyler Baker and Nanette Drobot from BC Housing appeared before Council to provide a Quarterly Update on Williams Lake Projects

Following the presentation - A Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor thanked Mssrs. Baker/Drobot for their time/information

2) Tamara Garreau and Paul French from the Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce appeared before Council to provide an update on Operations of Williams Lake Visitor Centre

Following the presentation - A Question/Answer period ensued

Mayor Rathor thanked Mssrs. French/Garreau for their time/information

Response to Delegations:

Council received for information the presentations from BC Housing and Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce

Business:

1) Council received for information the accounts payable computer cheque and EFT listings dated January 16, 17 and 23, 2025

2) Following No Public Input -- Council approved Development Variance Permit No. 05-2024 for property located at 791 Smith Street 

3) Council authorized travel, registration and other expenses for Mayor Rathor or alternate (COFI Convention only) to attend the following conferences:

i) 2025 Local Government Leadership Academy (LGLA) Forum in Vancouver, BC from March 12 to 14, 2025

ii) Council of Forest Industries 2025 Annual Convention in Prince George, BC from April 2 to 4, 2025

4) Council authorized the following regarding the 2025 Budget/2025-2029 Five Year Financial Plan for the City of Williams Lake:

* Direct staff to begin drafting the 2025-2029 Financial Plan Bylaw;

* Direct staff to remove/defer $655 thousand worth of capital projects from 2025 capital plan and use the savings thus achieved to aim at an approximately 3.2% tax rate reduction in the year 2025;

* Approve a further deferral of $5.9 million of Water projects from 2029 to 2030; and

* Early approval to initiate new projects recommended by staff prior to the approval of 2025-2029 Financial Plan Bylaw

CONTRARY TO THE MOTION: Councillors J. Flaspohler, J. Lyons and M. Moses

Council also authorized:

i) Mayor Rathor or Alternate attendance at the 2025 FCM/Federation of Canadian Municipalities Convention in Ottawa, ON from May 29th to June 1st, 2025

ii) Approval of student salary increase of $40,000 in 2025 to be included in the 2025 budget 

iii) Approval of  $30,000 to Boitanio Park Skate park Replacement – Design to be included in the 2025 budget

5) Council ratified an email poll authorizing a letter on behalf of Williams Lake City Council be sent to formally express support for continued operation of Sacred Heart Catholic School, and directing staff to request letters of support from the Cariboo Regional District and local First Nations

6) Council awarded the Risk Management Consultant Services contract to MNP for $68,000, plus GST

7) Council approved the proposed lease renewals with the Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce and the Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin Society for respective portions of the Williams Lake Visitor Centre (Tourism Discovery Centre) at 1660 Broadway Avenue South for a term of five years each, effective January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2029 at a lease rate of $1.00 per year including applicable taxes

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

a) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #01-2025 and the report of the Manager of Planning and Development dated December 10, 2024, Council maintain the status quo for Building Permit renewals in City of Williams Lake Building Bylaw No. 2274, 2019

b) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #02-2025, Council:

* Reaffirm its position that prolific offenders out on bail should be tracked using GPS monitoring;

* Send a letter to the Attorney General of Canada outlining Council's concerns with regards to prolific offenders and their impacts and costs on the community (copied to relevant Provincial cabinet members, local government advocacy entities and the local MLA and MP);

* Send a response from the Mayor's office to Crown Counsel inquiring how a local government may provide victim impact statements on matters that impact the community; and

* Discuss a potential resolution to NCLGA regarding the prolific offender issue at the next Committee of Whole Council Meeting

* Advise Crown Counsel, the Attorney General of Canada and the Ministry of Attorney General (BC Prosecution Service) that the City of Williams Lake is not prepared to use taxpayers dollars to fund the increased policing and community costs resulting from the revolving door of repeat prolific offenders being released into our community on bail conditions, and that the City will be reviewing options such as refusing to pay costs resulting from Crown Counsel’s decision to continually release repeat prolific offenders into Williams Lake."

c) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #03-2025 and the report of the Airport Coordinator dated January 15, 2025, Council approve the proposed purchase of a new pay parking machine for the Williams Lake Regional Airport in the amount of $20,000 from Airport Reserves

d) That pursuant to Committee of Whole Council Report #05-2025, Council request staff bring forward, as soon as possible, the rescinding of the do-not-occupy notices at the Terra Ridge complex as per the recently received Octo Engineering Report commissioned by Terra Ridge Residents

9) Council proclaimed April 28th, 2025 as "Day of Mourning" in the City of Williams Lake and authorization be given for the flag to be flown at half mast and for a memorial to be erected on the lawn of Williams Lake City Hall on this day

10) Council received the Council Information Package as of January 28th, 2025

11) Council received updates on the Water Treatment Plant/Atlantic Power and received a letter from Mayor Rathor to BC Premier David Eby dated January 21, 2025 regarding an urgent appeal to support continued operation of the Williams Lake Power Plant (Atlantic Power) as well as Mayor Rathor providing a verbal report on this subject... 

Members of Council reported on their recent activities... 

And then Council adjourned at 8:10pm

Limited Pool Availability at West Fraser Aquatic Centre - Jan 31st to Feb 2nd, 2025

Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The Cariboo Memorial Recreation Complex’s Sam Ketcham Memorial Pool will be temporarily adjusting its hours of operation this weekend for the annual Williams Lake Blue Fins Swim Club’s Frost Fest Swim Meet.

The closure will begin at 2 pm on Friday, January 31 with the pool reopening on Sunday, February 2 from 2-5 pm for a public swim.

During the closure, all public swimming, lap swimming, drop-in aquatics programs and pool activities will be unavailable.

“The Blue Fins Frost Fest Swim Meet is a great chance for the community to support our local swimmers and their development, and we invite everyone to come on down to the CMRC to cheer on the participants and to enjoy some exciting competition,” said Stacey Miranda, Director of Community Services for the City of Williams Lake

Competitive youth swimmers from Kamloops, Quesnel and Prince George will join Williams Lake athletes for the meet, which will officially get underway at around 4 pm on Friday, January 31 with racing.

For anyone visiting the CMRC, please note the following:

The pool will be closed to the public from 2 pm on Friday, January 31 until 2 pm on Sunday, February 2.

Other facility amenities, such as the fitness centre and ice arenas, will remain open during the swim meet.

“We’re excited to host this swim meet and support the talented athletes in our community,” Miranda said. “We appreciate the community’s understanding as we temporarily close the pool this weekend for this important event for our young swimmers. We look forward to welcoming everyone back on Sunday afternoon.”

For additional details on the swim meet visit the Blue Fin’s website at https://wlbf.poolq.net/event/frost-fest-home-meet or, for questions related to the CMRC, please call 250-398-7665.

Special Statement from Nits’ilʔin (Chief) Joe Alphonse re: 2025 Tl'etinqox Chief/Council Election

Courtesy of the Tsilhqot'in National Government:

Special Statement from Nits’ilʔin (Chief) Joe Alphonse, O.B.C, LL.D. (hon.). Tribal Chair, Tŝilhqot’in National Government and Chief of Tl'etinqox Government:

"Good day, this is to confirm that I will not let my name stand to run for Chief and or Council in the 2025 Tl'etinqox Government election.

It has been a wonderful, but sometimes turbulent, 16 years as Chief of Tl'etinqox. I am proud of the work I've done and leaving the community in the best financial situation it has ever seen. I feel it is time to move on and place my personal health first. It has been a difficult decision to step away and I hope the community can keep moving forward and build upon what I have established. 

I would also like to thank all of my supporters throughout my term as Chief. Without support you can't be Chief - so I am, and always will be, grateful for that. Politics in any realm isn't an easy game. It is a priority to look after your personal health.

Best wishes to the community and all the candidates running in this election."

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government/Board of Education Meetings - Week of January 27-31, 2025

During the week of January 27-31, 2025 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments or Boards of Education will be holding meetings, as follows:

Quesnel: Policy/Bylaw Committee - Regular Meeting on Thursday, January 30th at 3:15pm in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel).  On the Agenda:

* Property Development Proposal - Discussion

View the full Meeting Agenda here

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

* Presentation: Gavin Lake Forest Education Centre

* Delegation: Concerned Parents/Caregivers of Williams Lake

* Reports from the Superintendent/Secretary-Treasurer

* Report from Trustee Kohut (Zone 7 - Chilcotin)

View the full Agenda here

Williams Lake: Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, January 28th at 6:00pm in Williams Lake Council Chambers (450 Mart St, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegations -- i) BC Housing Corporation re Quarterly Update on Williams Lake Projects; ii) Williams Lake & District Chamber of Commerce re Update on Operations of Williams Lake Visitor Centre

* DVP for 791 Smith Street - For Approval

* Approval for Mayor Rathor's travel to Council of Forest Industries 2024 Annual Convention in April 2025 and LGLA Leadership Forum in March 2025

* 2025 Budget Development Update (Projects and Tax Rate Reduction Scenario) – Fourth Round Review

* Poll of Council - Sacred Heart Catholic School Support Letter (Editor's Note -- the Cariboo Regional District Board has authorized a similar support letter at the January 24th, 2025 Cariboo Regional District Board meeting at the request of Williams Lake Mayor/Director Surinderpal Rathor)

* TDC (Williams Lake Chamber of Commerce and Museum of the Cariboo-Chilcotin) Occupant Lease Renewals

* 4 Recommendations from previous Committee of the Whole meeting for endorsement

* Standing Agenda Items - Atlantic Power/Water Treatment Plant

View the full Agenda here

100 Mile House: all meetings below to be held in 100 Mile House Council Chambers (385 Birch Avenue, 100 Mile House) on Tuesday, January 28th

1) Committee of the Whole at 5pm.  On the Agenda:

* Illegal Secondary Suites

* Roaming Cats

* Business Licensing/Roaming Businesses

View the full Agenda here

2) Municipal Council at 5:30pm or upon adjournment of the Committee of the Whole meeting.  On the Agenda:

* Replacement of Bobcat equipment

* Fees and Charges Amendment Bylaw -- Adoption

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

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo RD Board rejects land use application for HeliSki Lodge in an environmentally sensitive area

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

At its January 24, 2025 meeting, the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) Board has rejected an application to permit a Heli Ski Lodge in the Bluff Lake – Middle Lake area. This proposal was presented to the Board for a possible second reading of a land use amendment bylaw and would have been referred for a formal public hearing if it had been approved. Because the application was rejected, no public hearing is required, and the application will be closed.

The applicant’s proposal was to change the land use designation under the CRD’s Chilcotin Area Rural Land Use Bylaw for 27 hectares of land. The land use would have been changed from Rural Residential and Resource / Agricultural to a Special Exception Commercial zone. The proposal would have facilitated development of a tourist commercial resort with plans to develop a lodge, several cabins, a spa, helipad, and support facilities.

During the meeting, Electoral Area J (West Chilcotin) Director Tolin Pare addressed the Board, stating that “the amount of correspondence that we have received and the number of people who reached out to me personally has been mind boggling. Residents, First Nations elders and leaders, and several Associations have all spoken against this proposal. I truly feel that I have given more than enough time to everyone with this file. I stated when I deferred this back in November 2024 that I would not go against the province on their recommendation.”

Importantly, the Province of B.C.’s Ministry of Water, Lands, and Resource Stewardship (WLRS) submitted information in October 2024 which detailed how the proposal would conflict with provincial wildlife conservation objectives for Mountain Goat habitat on nearby Crown Lands. WLRS reiterated these concerns in a submission made on December 12, 2024 after meeting with the applicant. The feedback from WLRS is consistent with the Province’s Chilcotin Sustainable Resource Management Plan.

Significant concerns have been raised by residents of the area, First Nations elders and leaders, and several associations representing parties interested in the area. A public information meeting in August 2024 saw 72 people attend to obtain information and provide comments on the application, with a majority objecting to the proposal. Written comments were also supplied to the CRD following the meeting. Opponents to the proposal indicated concerns about the proposed density of the development, its environmental impact, potential damage to archaeological sites, increased traffic, and the noise from more aircraft in the area.

The Board acknowledged the controversial nature of the application, along with the extensive work conducted by both the applicant and CRD planning staff to assess the proposal. CRD Planning Department representatives noted that a staff recommendation for rejection was made on the balance of public feedback, provincial recommendations, and the Chilcotin Sustainable Resource Management Plan. Clarification was also given that air traffic in the area is not subject to zoning regulations, however, the development of the tourist commercial resort is within the purview of the Board.

Cariboo RD Board Highlights - January 24th, 2025 mtg

Present: Chair M.Wagner/Vice Chair M. Neufeld and Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, LeBourdais, Richmond, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Coleman (via MS Teams), Roodenburg (via MS Teams), Rathor and Pinkney 

Meeting called to order at 9:45am

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

Meeting agenda adopted 

Minutes of the previous Cariboo RD Board Meeting were received/adopted 

Delegation (11am - 12pm):

Kim Grout, Chief Executive Officer of the Agricultural Land Commission and ALC Board Chair Jennifer Dyson appeared remotely before the Board to discuss relevant issues in relation to the Agriculture Land Reserve/Commission 

Following her presentation - a Question/Answer period ensued 

The Chair thanked Ms. Grout and Ms. Dyson for their time/information

Business:

1) The Board rejected a proposed re-zoning application in Electoral Area "J" from Mr. Dave King (file number 3360-20/20240014) because of the potential impact on wildlife values (Area J/Bluff Lake Road)

2) The Board gave 1st/2nd Readings to South Cariboo Area Zoning Amendment Bylaw No. 5496, 2024 for property at 4842 Hamilton Rd in Electoral Area "G" subject to: 

the applicant applying for and receiving a Controlled Access Permit from Ministry of Transportation and Transit for Lot A, District Lot 5, Lillooet District, Plan 5820, Except Plan KAP52790 and that the applicant providing proof to CRD planning staff that the Ministry of Transportation and Transit’s concerns regarding lighting impacts on the motoring public have been addressed

3) The Board adopted Central Cariboo Area Rural Land Use Amendment Bylaw No. 5477, 2024 (Area F/6414 & 6416 Horsefly Landing Rd)

4) The Board approved a Development Permit pertaining to Lot B, District Lot 4491, Lillooet District, Plan 32995 (Area L/6755 Little Fort Hwy 24)

5) The Board approved a Development Permit pertaining to District Lot 12409, Cariboo District (Area D/88 Soda Creek Road) 

6) The Board authorized for submission a joint application for the Universal Water Meter Pilot Project, including Horse Lake, Forest Grove, and Lac La Hache water systems

At 10:33am - the Board recessed to CCRHD Board 

At 11:08am - the Board resumed 

Delegation - Ag Land Commission ( as per above)

At 12:13pm — the Board recessed to lunch/CCRHD Board 

At 1:08pm  — the Board resumed

Business, cont:

7) The Board authorized NDIT Applications as follows:

* Roots to Grow Marketing

* Bouchie Lake Recreation Commission - Community Hall Playground Upgrade

* South Cariboo Pickleball Association Outdoor Pickleball Courts

* Local Government Intern for the 2025 internship program

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

* South Cariboo Community Enhancement Foundation - divide $800 equally between Areas G,H,L

* Williams Lake Blue Fins -- $1,000 from Area "D"

* Horsefly River Roundtable -- $1,000 from Area "F"

9) The Board authorized the funding contribution agreement with the Anahim Lake Community Association, the Nimpo Lake Community Association and the Tatla Lake Area Community Association to support operations and capital projects at their respective community halls for a term of five years and including an annual payment to the associations of $8,000 each with funding from the Area "J" Community Hall Contribution Service

10) The Board authorized the proposed Air Carrier Airport Use Agreement (2025-2029) renewal with Pacific Coastal Airlines for the Anahim Lake airport for a term of four years and five months with an annual fee of $70,000 plus applicable taxes increasing to $80,000 in the final year of the term

11) The Board received/ratified the Monthly Cheque Register, as follows:

* November 2024 -- $2,717,658.83

* December 2024 -- $4,062,419.22

12) The Board appointed Directors Pare, Anderson and Neufeld to the 2025 Parcel Tax Roll Review Panel and that the Panel will meet at 11:00 a.m. on February 27, 2025 in the Cariboo Regional District Board Room and the meeting be held via MS Teams

13) The Board held a discussion regarding NCLGA 2025 Resolutions and directed Staff to prepare NCLGA Resolutions, as follows:

* Mental Health for Local Elected Officials 

* Quesnel Interconnector Project (Highway 97)

* Agriculture Land Reserve (ALR) boundary Refresh / ALR 90 Sq. Ft rule for residential farm help 

* Elected officials on leave without pay being permitted to attend local government conferences

14) The Board received a number of Information-Only items and directed that a Letter of Support be provided to UBCM regarding the concerns of Regional District Kootenay Boundary/Cooperative Community Wildfire Response Initiative 

15) The Board endorsed recommendations from Policy Committee, as follows:

* That the draft Anti-Discrimination Policy be adopted

* That the following section be removed from the CAO Evaluation Policy:

Criteria:

In addition to the Board members’ observations and interactions with the CAO, the CAO will set annual goals and report to the Board on them which will assist in the Board’s CAO evaluation process.

Further, that the CAO Evaluation Policy be endorsed, as amended

* That the Privacy Management Program Policy be adopted

16) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption to CRD Election and Assent Voting Bylaw No. 5487, 2025

17) At the request of Directors Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, Richmond (Areas B,C,D,G) -- the Board authorized attendance at the 2025 Federation of Canadian Municipalities Convention in Ottawa, ON from May 29th - June 1st, 2025 with funding to be provided by the Areas B,C,D and G Director Initiative Funds

18) At the request of Directors Bachmeier, Forseth (Areas B,D) -- the Board authorized attendance at the Keeping It Rural Conference in Kelowna, BC from June 10-12, 2025 with funding to be provided by the Areas B,D Director Initiative Funds

19) At the request of Director Forseth (Area D) -- the Board authorized a letter be forwarded to the UBCM Executive requesting that they have a discussion with the Hon. Ravi Kahlon – BC’s Municipal Affairs/Housing Minister regarding the negative impacts on BC Local Governments’ complying with the Heritage Conservation Act (HCA) in relation to archeological studies for local government projects as well as negative impacts on rural property owners complying with the HCA with a copy of the letter being provided to BC’s Indigenous Relations Minister (Hon. Christine Boyle)

20) At the request of Director Forseth (Area D) -- the Board authorized a letter to the CRTC (Canadian Radio-Telecommunications Commission) requesting that telecommunications companies such as TELUS keep copper phone lines in place to rural customers’ homes in converting them to Fiber Optic networks unless and until alternate communication methods (ie: cell connectivity) are available, should the Fiber Optic networks go down, due to maintenance or other cause, with a copy of the letter be forwarded to the Premier of British Columbia and BC’s Minister of Citizen Services for their information 

Directors’ provided verbal reports on their recent activities in their Electoral Area/Municipality 

Resolved — 

1) That the appointment of Laila Potvin to the Area “D” Advisory Planning Commission be rescinded

2) That a letter of support be provided from the Cariboo Regional District to encourage CISKD (Catholic Ind. Schools of the Kamloops Diocese) to keep Sacred Heart Elementary in Williams Lake open 

3) That the appointment of Doug Watt to the Area "F" Advisory Planning Commission be rescinded

The Board adjourned at 2:58pm 

Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board Highlights - January 24th, 2025 mtg

Present: 

Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais, Richmond, Wagner, Glassford, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Coleman (via MS Teams), Roodenburg (via MS Teams), Rathor, Pinkney and Smith

Meeting called to order at 9:30am by the Deputy CAO 

The Deputy CAO called 3 times for nomination of CCRHD Board Chair for 2025:

Director Al Richmond was duly nominated

Hearing no further nominations -- Director Al Richmond was elected by acclamation Chair of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District for 2025

The Deputy CAO called 3 times for nomination of CCRHD Board Vice-Chair for 2025:

Director Mary Sjostrom was duly nominated 

Hearing no further nominations -- Director Mary Sjostrom was elected by acclamation Vice-Chair of the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District for 2025

Director Richmond assumed the Chair at 9:32am

The Chair recognized that the meeting was taking place on the traditional unceded territory of Williams Lake First Nation within Secwepemculecw and provided a verbal report on a conversation he held with the Hon. Josie Osborne - BC Health Minister

Meeting Agenda adopted

Minutes of the CCRHD Board Meeting held on December 6th, 2024 was received/adopted

Business:

1) The Board gave 1st, 2nd, 3rd Readings and Adoption to Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District 2025 Five Year Financial Plan Bylaw No. 226, 2025

2) The Board received the following Information Only items:

* Northern Health Community News - December 2024

* CCRHD Delegations - Memorandum of Business

* Quesnel Q4-2024 Healthcare Recruitment Report

3) The Board authorized a Foundation Partnership grant request for up to $1,600 from the West Chilcotin Health Care Society for the purchase of various medical equipment for the provision of Healthcare services in the West Chilcotin

At 9:40am-- the Board recessed 

At 10:40am - the Board resumed 

Delegation:

At 10:40am -- Dianne Kostachuk, Director of Business Operation from Interior Health, appeared before the Board to discuss Interior Health funding requests

A Question/Answer period ensued

The Chair thanked Ms. Kostachuk for her time/information

Business, cont:

4) The Board authorized capital funding requests from Interior Health in the total amount of $2,698,400 and capital expenditure bylaw amendments of Bylaw No. 191 an additional $150,200, and Bylaw No. 213 an additional $245,700 [Washroom Renovation for Wheelchair Accessibility at 100 Mile District General Hospital + Urgent and Primary Care Centre at 47 Cameron Street, Williams Lake]

and finally, the necessary capital expenditure bylaws be brought forward to the Regional Hospital District Board at its February 28th, 2025, meeting for consideration of three readings and adoption

At 11:07am-- the Board recessed 

At 1:00pm — the Board resumed and recessed to hold a Closed Meeting as per Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter

At 1:04pm-- the Board resumed its' Open Meeting 

The Board adjourned at 1:08pm

Cariboo RD Finance/Budget Committee Highlights - Jan. 23, 2025 mtg

Present: Chair J. Glassford; Directors Sjostrom, Bachmeier, Massier, Forseth, Neufeld, LeBourdais, Richmond, Wagner, Pare, Anderson, De Vries, Roodenburg (via MS Teams), Rathor and Pinkney 

Meeting commenced at 1:00pm

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

Meeting Agenda adopted (click here)

Minutes of the Committee meeting held November 6th, 2024 were received/adopted

Business:

1) The Committee resumed its' review of the 2025 Business Plans for the various services of the Cariboo Regional District and Regional District Managers/CFO or CAO responded to questions of the Committee 

2) The Committee received a report of the CFO concerning a revised overview of the 2025-2029 Financial Plan for the Cariboo Regional District 

Resolved: That the Committee approve that the revised 2025-2029 Financial Plan for the Cariboo Regional District proceed to Public Consultation

3 The Committee received a report of the CFO concerning 2025 Completed Roll Assessments in the Cariboo Regional District

4) The Committee held a discussion regarding the Cariboo Regional District's Community Works Fund Policy and following the discussion, the Committee resolved the following:

Resolved: That Regional District Staff be requested to compile capital priorities and associated amendments to the current Community Works Fund Policy to present at the next Committee of the Whole meeting

The Committee adjourned at 2:25pm

Post Event Report -- 2025 BC Natural Resources Forum

As is my standard practice -- find below my "Post Event" report respecting my attendance, in my capacity as the #CaribooRD Area "D" Director, at the 2025 BC Natural Resources Forum in Prince George, BC from Jan 14-16, 2025

Report: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1B-tujXNqPG5-p0x1gFbMIubv48u6xCEE/view?usp=drive_link

~Steve

Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Government Meetings - Week of Jan 20-24, 2025

During the week of January 20-24, 2025 -- the following Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments/Boards of Education will be holding meetings, as follows:

Wells - Regular Council Meeting on Tuesday, January 21st starting at 12:30 to 2pm, both in Wells Council Chambers (4243 Sanders Avenue) and/or via Zoom.  When available, the Agenda can be viewed here

Quesnel - Public Safety Committee on Tuesday, January 21st at 10:30am in the Fraser Room, Quesnel City Hall (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St).  On the Agenda:

* Canadian Ranger Patrol Group - Update

* Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Office Manager/Human Resources Support

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

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Williams Lake - Committee of the Whole session on Tuesday, January 21st in the Rick Hansen Boardroom (Basement - 450 Mart St).  On the Agenda:

* Building Bylaw Update and next steps

* Response Letter from Minister of Attorney General re Bail Reform - Referred from January 14, 2025 Regular Council meeting for further discussion 

* Approval for the Purchase of a New Airport Pay Parking Machine

* 2025 Budget Development Update (Tax Roll and Other Additional Information) - Third Round Review

* Motion to proceed to a Special Closed Council Meeting -- Sections 90(1c,g,i,j - labour, litigation, legal advice and information prohibited from public disclosure) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo Regional District -- Meetings as noted below.  FYI -- the Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District and Cariboo Regional District Board meetings for January 24th will NOT be livestreamed, due to technology issues.  Efforts are underway to repair those in time for meetings in March 2025... 

1) North Cariboo Rural Directors Caucus -- Regular Meeting on Tuesday, January 21st at 3pm in the Quesnel CRD Office (101-410 Kinchant St., Quesnel).  On the Agenda:

* Appointment of Chair/Vice Chair for 2025

* Appointment of North Cariboo Joint Committee Co-Chair (CRD) for 2025

* Appointment to North Cariboo Community Committees

* Correspondence from Quesnel Junior School and Correlieu Ski and Snowboard Teams regarding Provincial competition

* Friends of Barkerville Request for Funding

* Verbal Update from Director J. Glassford re: Quesnel Airport Advisory Committee meeting

View the full Agenda here

2) Central Cariboo Rural Directors' Caucus -- Regular Meeting on Wednesday, January 22nd at 3pm in the Cariboo Regional District's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  

On the Agenda:

* Election of Chair for 2025

* Appointment of Central Cariboo Joint Committee Co-Chair (CRD) for 2025

* Appointment to Central Cariboo Community Committees

View the full Agenda here

3) Central Cariboo Joint Committee -- Regular Meeting on Wednesday, January 22nd at 5:30pm in the Cariboo Regional District's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: WL Cycling Club

* Information Item -- Central Cariboo Arts and Culture Fall Grant Awards Report

* Discussion Item -- Response Letter from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy re: Williams Lake Air Quality Roundtable 

View the full Agenda here

4) Finance/Budget Committee -- Meeting on Thursday, January 23rd, 2025 at 1pm in the Cariboo Regional District's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Continued Review of Draft 2025 Business Plans and Five Year Financial Plan

* Information Item -- 2025 Completed Assessment Roll 

* Action Item -- CRD Community Works Fund Policy 

View the full Agenda here

5) Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board -- Regular Meeting on Friday, January 24th, 2025 at 9:30am in the Cariboo Regional District's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Election of Board Chair/Vice-Chair for 2025

* Delegation at 10:30am -- Interior Health re: Funding Requests

* 2025 Budget Bylaw for the Regional Hospital District

* Action Items -- Request from the West Chilcotin Health Care Society; Interior Health Capital Funding Request for their 2025/2026 Fiscal Year

* Closed Board Session - Section 90(1k - negotiations) of the Community Charter

View the full Agenda here

6) Cariboo Regional District Board -- Regular Meeting on Friday, January 24th, 2025 at 9:45am or upon recess/adjournment of the CCRHD Board, in the Cariboo Regional District's Williams Lake Boardroom (180D North 3rd Avenue, Williams Lake).  On the Agenda:

* Delegation: Agriculture Land Commission CEO Kim Grout (1 hr)

* Land Use Matters (Area Directors' only)

* Water Meter Pilot Project grant application (Areas G,H,L)

* Year Round Grant for Assistance applications

* NDIT Application - Roots to Grow Marketing

* Discussion Item: 2025 NCLGA/North Central Local Government Association Resolutions

* Committee or Commission Recommendations for endorsement

* Election and Assent Voting Bylaw No. 5487, 2025 (for 3 Readings/Adoption)

* Requests from Directors Bachmeier, Massier and Forseth (Areas B,C,D) to access Area Director Initiative Funds to attend 2025 FCM Convention in Ottawa, ON from May 29th to June 1st, 2025

* Requests from Directors Bachmeier, Forseth (Areas B,D) to access Area Director Initiative Funds to attend 2025 Keeping It Rural Conference in Kelowna, BC from June 10-12, 2025 

* Request from Director Forseth (Area D) to send a letter to UBCM Executive regarding impacts to local government complying with archaeological requirements as per the Heritage Conversation Act

* Request from Director Forseth (Area D) to send a letter to CRTC regarding deactivation of copper telephone lines in rural areas which Fibre Optic high speed internet systems are located -- copper phone lines are retained until better cell phone connectivity is in place

View the full Agenda here

Cariboo RD to replace Audio Livestream System

Courtesy of the Cariboo Regional District:

After many years of operation, the systems that allowed the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) to provide a live audio-stream of its Board meetings have stopped working. Because of this, CRD and Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District Board meetings will not be available for online live-streaming in January or February 2025. The next CRD and Cariboo-Chilcotin RHD Board meetings is scheduled for January 24, 2025 to commence at 9:30 a.m.

Anyone interested in viewing the proceedings of a Board meeting can attend in person. All meetings are open to be viewed and listened to by the public, except for any portion of a meeting which is closed to discuss labour relations, legal matters, or any other reason designated by section 90(1) or (2) of the Community Charter. While the meetings are open to be viewed, public  participation and commentary is not permitted except through delegations registered in advance of the meeting.

The CRD is in the final stages of replacing this system, using money from the 2023 Growing Communities Fund with no funds from taxation required. Research, technical assessment, and evaluation of possible replacement hardware and software systems occurred over the course of 2024. The new system is projected to cost $160,000 plus installation costs, and could be in operation by mid-March.