Quesnel Council Highlights - October 6, 2026 mtg

Editor's Note -- October 6, 2026 was the final meeting of Quesnel City Council for their 2022-2026 term

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Snow Contractor Liability Insurance

Council approved adding one snow removal contractor to the City’s liability insurance program. This helps ensure the City can continue to provide reliable winter maintenance services, as liability insurance can be costly and difficult for smaller contractors to obtain.

Food Hub Replacement – Award of Contract

Council has awarded the contract to rebuild the Food Hub at 101 Marsh Drive to Fresno Construction Ltd. The project is valued at approximately $2.4 million and is being funded through insurance proceeds and grant funding.
Following the fire in May 2025, work has been underway to design a replacement building that includes required code upgrades and improvements that were planned before the fire.
The total project budget is $3 million, and insurance and grants are expected to cover all costs. No City funds have been allocated to the project at this time. 

NDIT Business Façade Improvement Grant 

Council approved an application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust’s Business Façade Improvement Program for 2027.
This annual program helps local businesses and organizations enhance the appearance and functionality of their storefronts and building exteriors. The program continues to see strong interest in Quesnel, supporting investment in the community and helping keep our downtown and commercial areas looking their best.

UBCM Community to Community Grant Application 

Council approved a grant application to the UBCM Regional Community to Community Program to support meetings with local First Nations regarding the future of the former Quesnel Junior School property.
If approved, the grant would provide up to $20,000 to support collaboration, relationship-building, and early discussions on land use planning. These conversations will help develop a shared vision for the site and explore partnership opportunities for its future development.

Hillside Hazard Development Permit for 1142 Purmal Avenue 

Council approved a Development Permit to allow the reconstruction of a home destroyed by fire in the Hillside Hazard Development Permit Area.  The approval is subject to registering a restrictive covenant on the property referencing the geotechnical report submitted stating the site is safe for redevelopment on the existing foundation and is within acceptable risk tolerances in the West Quesnel Land Stability Area.   Additional conditions include restoring rear lane access for utility servicing and maintenance. 

Bylaws

• Bylaw #1986 - City of Quesnel Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 1986 of 2026 - Final Adoption

Announcements/Events

Mayor and Council provided closing remarks for the 2022-2026 Council term, reflecting on key accomplishments, key initiatives undertaken, and collaborative efforts over the past four years. Members expressed their appreciation to fellow Council members, City staff, community partners, and residents for their support and contributions throughout the term. The closing remarks can be viewed in the Council Meeting video recording beginning at 27:23.

Quesnel Council Highlights - September 25, 2026 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Response to Deepening Crisis in British Columbia’s Forest Sector

Council approved sending a letter to the Premier asking the Province to recognize Quesnel as a key partner in the proposed Forest Crisis Action Group and the Make More in BC initiative. With initiatives like the Future of Forestry Think Tank, Forestry Innovation Centre, and Three Rivers Community Forest already in place, Quesnel has the experience, partnerships, and leadership needed to help shape the future of B.C.’s forest sector.

City of Quesnel Permissive Tax Exemption Bylaw Amendment Bylaw No. 1986 of 2026

Council approved the first three readings of the 2024-2027 Permissive Tax Exemption Amendment Bylaw. The amendment reflects recent property changes, including the amalgamation of Tillicum Society properties related to the construction of a new apartment building. Tillicum Society has submitted updated applications to reflect the current and planned use of its properties. The bylaw also removes the SPCA property from the permissive tax exemption program, as the current municipal pound services agreement concluded at the end of August.

Sensitive Ecosystem Development Permit for 196 Tatchell Road

Council approved an application to construct a new covered deck within the Sensitive Ecosystem Development Permit Area. The conditions of approval include restoring disturbed soils, minimizing erosion and sediment runoff, and preserving existing riparian vegetation wherever possible.

 TUSE2025-06 Temporary Use Permit - 395 Elliott Street

Council received an update on the work staff has undertaken since September 1 to explore potential Temporary Winter Shelter location options, confirming no alternative options to 395 Elliott were identified. The report also outlined the process available to Council should it wish to reconsider or receive a new application for a Temporary Use Permit related to an emergency shelter at 395 Elliott Street.

Quesnel Council Highlights - September 1, 2026 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Housing Solutions Table Report

Council asked staff to explore other options for a warming shelter at 395 Elliott Street or another suitable location. Staff will also confirm whether BC Housing funding would still be available if the topic comes back to Council on September 22, 2026.

North Cariboo Highway Rescue Society Licence of Occupation

Council approved entering into a Licence of Occupation agreement with the North Cariboo Highway Rescue Society for their use of the property at 298 Evans Drive in Quesnel for a five-year term.

Political Campaign Sign Bylaw – 2026

Because of construction on the Johnston Bridge, Council approved North Star Road as an alternate location for campaign signs during the 2026 election. It will replace the Johnston Bridge Loop location listed in Political Campaign Sign Bylaw 1875, 2026.

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Quesnel Minor Baseball Association Licence of Use and Occupation

Council approved entering into a Licence of Use and Occupation agreement with the Quesnel Minor Baseball Association for their use of the clubhouse building adjacent to the ball field known as Rotary Ball Park in Lebourdais Park for a five-year term.

Quesnel Council Highlights - August 25, 2026 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Quesnel Ambassador Leadership Program

Council expressed appreciation to the 2025/2026 Outgoing Ambassadors Grace Cassidy and Ociah Woodruff, and welcomed the 2026/2027 Incoming Ambassadors Abigail Russell and Nora Aziz.

Quesnel Health Services - 2026 Updates

Council received an update on local health services from Daryl Petsul, senior operating officer, northern interior rural, and Michelle Lawrence, executive director, specialized services with Northern Health.

The presentation highlighted current efforts to strengthen healthcare services in the region, including physician recruitment, medical training initiatives, and the implementation of Teladoc services at urgent and primary care centres. Council also received an overview of the local physician workforce and how healthcare delivery continues to evolve to meet changing community needs.

Challenges facing healthcare systems across the province were also discussed, including workforce changes, an aging population, declining birth rates, increasing patient care complexity, hospital capacity pressures, and rising incidents of workplace violence.

Tourism Marketing Results

Amy Thacker, CEO of the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association (CCCTA), provided Council with an update on the results of the Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT) program and the positive impact it is having across the region.

With growing community participation, CCCTA’s marketing efforts have contributed to increasing room revenues, increasing the provincial share of room revenues for the region, and increasing qualified referrals to tourism operators, year over year, since the inception of MRDT in the region. The organization is also leveraging Destination BC funding to expand marketing efforts, promote key travel routes such as the Gold Rush Trail, and deliver targeted campaigns that encourage more visitors to stay longer and explore the region.

Looking ahead, priorities include tourism industry training, a highway signage strategy, responsible travel initiatives, and continued advocacy for improved transportation options. CCCTA also emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration with local tourism operators to support regional growth and development.

Nilhts’i Ecoener Wind Project

Council approved a request to provide a letter of support for the Nilhts’i Ecoener Wind Project as part of its Energy Regulator Activities Act permit application after receiving more information about the project's potential use of the Quesnel landfill and any associated impacts on landfill capacity and operations.

Local Government Climate Action Program Reporting

Council received the 2025 Local Government Climate Action Report, which tracks the City’s greenhouse gas emissions and local climate action efforts.

The report is required under the Local Government Climate Action Program, which provides funding to support projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainability in communities across British Columbia.

Capital Prioritization

Council reviewed and approved priorities within the City’s 20-year capital plan, while also providing recommendations for the next Council.

Council approved making the water treatment project the top priority for future infrastructure grant funding, implementing an annual increase to taxation of 1.5% per year to go into the capital reinvestment reserve to ensure adequate funding to maintain the city’s current infrastructure, and exploring long-term parking solutions as part of the planned RCMP detachment renovation project before it proceeds to referendum.

Council Information Package:

Council reviewed several items included in the Council Information Package.

A resident letter regarding public safety was discussed and will be forwarded to an upcoming Public Safety and Policing Committee meeting for further review.

Council also received an update on a letter of support provided for the Quesnel Kangaroos Hockey Club's bid to host the 2027 Western Canada Savage Cup Hockey Championship.

Quesnel Legion - Cenotaph Request

Council directed staff to review the request from the Quesnel Legion and bring a report back to a future council meeting regarding the possible relocation of the Cenotaph.

City of Quesnel Appointment of Officers and Delegation of Authority Amendment Bylaw No. 1985 of 2026 – Final Reading

Council approved the final reading of the City of Quesnel Appointment of Officers and Delegation of Authority Amendment Bylaw No. 1985 of 2026.

Quesnel Council Highlights - July 28, 2026 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

2026/27 Northstar Interchange Prescribed Fire Proposal

Matt Duran, Wildfire Technician with the Quesnel Fire Zone of the Cariboo Fire Centre, provided Council with an update on plans for a prescribed burn near the Northstar Interchange.

The project is designed to reduce the risk of spring grass fires by safely removing dead vegetation that can easily ignite and spread to nearby properties, infrastructure, and forested areas.

Planning and coordination are ongoing, with the BC Wildfire Service working closely with the Quesnel Fire Department, local First Nations, and other partners to ensure the burn is carried out safely and effectively.

The burn will only proceed when weather and site conditions are favourable. While timing will depend on those conditions, the current target is Spring 2027, when crews can remove winter vegetation and encourage healthy new growth in the area.

Quesnel Regional Airport Master Plan

Council recently received an overview of the upcoming Quesnel Regional Airport Master Plan from HM Aero Aviation Consulting.

The plan will help guide the airport's long-term future by identifying operational, infrastructure, and economic development priorities while adapting to changing industry needs. Work will be completed in four phases, including stakeholder engagement, background analysis, strategic planning, and development of the final Master Plan.

The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026 and will help shape the future direction of the Quesnel Regional Airport for years to come.

March with Arch

Council approved a request to reserve two campsites for four nights in support of the annual March with Arch Pilgrimage in 2026.

The March with Arch is an annual healing journey that honours Archie Chantyman and promotes messages of faith, hope, love, unity, and forgiveness. The pilgrimage brings participants together in a shared experience focused on healing and community connection.

The reserved campsite dates are September 11 to 13 and September 21 to 23, 2026.

Nilhts’i Ecoener Wind Project

Council deferred consideration of a request to provide a letter of support for the Nilhts’i Ecoener Wind Project as part of its Energy Regulator Activities Act permit application.

Council requested additional information regarding the project's potential use of the Quesnel landfill and any associated impacts on landfill capacity and operations. The matter will be brought back to a future Council meeting for further consideration once that information has been received.

City of Quesnel Appointment of Officers and Delegation of Authority Amendment Bylaw No. 1985 of 2026 

Council approved the first three readings of the City of Quesnel Appointment of Officers and Delegation of Authority Amendment Bylaw No. 1985 of 2026.

Providence Long Term Care and Assisted Living Update

Council received an update on the proposed Providence Long-Term Care and Assisted Living development at Cariboo Field (345 Roddis Drive).

Development Permit approval and site preparation for the new 144-bed long-term care and 144-bed assisted living facility is expected to begin in late fall, with construction anticipated to start in spring or summer 2027.

Council was also advised that the project has requested approval for construction activities between 7:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., seven days a week. Under the City's Nuisance Bylaw, construction noise is currently permitted from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on weekdays and 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on weekends.

Council Information Package:

Council discussed the Council Information package:

• Northern-Rural Homeowner Grant – City of Prince George:
  Council approved a letter be sent to the City of Prince George to support their request to the Province to reconsider the decision to end the Northern-Rural Homeowner Benefit.
• Temporary Winter Shelter:
  Council directed staff to obtain legal advice regarding the City's authority, responsibilities, and potential liabilities related to the provision or non-provision of winter shelter for unhoused individuals.

Correspondence

Council approved the following requests for resolutions of support for initiatives and grant applications:

• Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA) - Request for Support:
  Council approved a letter be sent to the Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA) in support of its Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) resolution advocating for the establishment of an Indigenous-led, cross-sector housing alliance and to endorse AHMA's advocacy efforts urging the Province of British Columbia to support the continuation of Canada's Urban Native Housing Program beyond its anticipated expiry in 2028.
• ECHEN Request for letter of support - Hall renovation NICHIE Marketing:
  Council approved a letter of support request to ECHEN Healing Society for their application to the Northern Development Initiative Trust Community Development Grants Program for the ECHEN Hall Renovation Project and the Nurturing Indigenous Culture, Heritage and Expression Promotion and Community Awareness Campaign.

Announcements/Events

• The Lhtako Dene Nation Traditional Powwow takes place from July 31 to August 2, 2026, at the Lhtako Dene Nation Pow Wow Grounds.
  Dates & Times: Opens Friday, July 31, 2026, at 5:00 PM and runs through Sunday, August 2, 2026.
• The 8th Annual Touch A Truck event takes place on September 19, 2026, hosted by the Quesnel & District Child Development Centre.

Special Quesnel Council Highlights - July 21, 2026 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

July 21, 2026, Special Open Council Meeting

Temporary Use Permit at 395 Elliott Street Council considered a Temporary Use Permit to allow a temporary winter shelter to operate at 395 Elliott Street. Following discussion, the motion to approve the permit was defeated. Council heard presentations from BC Housing and the Quesnel Shelter and Support Society regarding the shelter's operation from January to April 2026. During that time, the shelter provided overnight accommodation, meals, health and wellness supports, and case planning services. As part of the process, additional public notification was provided through newspaper advertisements, the City's website, and direct mail to nearby property owners. Community feedback included seven letters expressing concerns and twenty three letters expressing support. The City will continue working with community partners and stakeholders toward the development of a long-term shelter strategy for Quesnel.

Special Quesnel Council Meeting - July 21, 2026

On Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 5:30pm -- Quesnel Council will be holding a Special Council Meeting in Quesnel Council Chambers (4th Floor, 410 Kinchant St, Quesnel) 

On the Agenda:

Delegations -- i) Quesnel Shelter and Support Society and ii) BC Housing

Business: 

* Administration Report #59/26 - Temporary Use Permit Reconsideration for 395 Elliott Street, Quesnel

View the full Meeting Agenda here

Anticipated Future Meetings of Cariboo-Chilcotin Local Governments/Boards of Education:

District of Wells Council -- Tuesday, August 11, 2026

City of Williams Lake Council -- Tuesday, August 11, 2026

District of 100 Mile House Council -- Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Cariboo-Chilcotin Regional Hospital District/Cariboo Regional District Boards' -- Friday, August 14, 2026

Boards of Education for School Districts' #27 (Cariboo-Chilcotin) and #28 (Quesnel) -- September 2026 

Quesnel City Council Highlights - June 23, 2026 mtg

Courtesy of the City of Quesnel:

Temporary Winter Shelter – BC Housing David Sheach, BC Housing’s Non-Profit Portfolio Manager for the North, joined Council to provide the report required in January during approval of the Temporary Winter Shelter (TWS) at BC Housing owned 395 Elliott Street. The shelter operated from January through the end of April 2026, sharing the site with Northern Health who operated mental heath and addiction services from the location. An incident occurred that caused reconsideration of the co-location of the services and Northern Health relocated the services to other facilities. Security patrols of the site that were contracted by Northern Health have been expanded and continued by BC Housing. BC Housing is requesting approval to continue the Temporary Use permit for 395 Elliott Street for the next two winter seasons. Due to community concerns Council requested an additional meeting to review the request, wanting greater notice to and input from the neighbourhood. The meeting is expected to take place in July or August 2026.

PSI Group of Companies Dr. Curtis Berthelot, P.Eng., President of PSI Group of Companies, joined Council to talk about a potential new home for the company’s mine engineering materials laboratory, engineering design centre, training facility, and mine ground support materials distribution centre. PSI is looking at bringing state-of-the-art, mechanized, and lower-carbon technologies into the mining sector, with Quesnel proposed as its provincial headquarters. If the project moves ahead, it could bring meaningful economic growth to the community, including long-term jobs, technical training opportunities, and potential new revenue.

Long Term Shelter Plan  A draft plan for developing a longer-term shelter strategy was endorsed by Council. The plan lays out a process to be unrolled over the next two years to identify a new location(s) for shelter services following the closure of the current facility on Carson. The current location has been identified as inadequate based on location, capacity, and design. Council will be engaged in the process to provide input on the process and community engagement.

Cold Weather Planning Council received the final Cold Weather Plan prepared by LevelUp Consulting. Council requested staff ensure there are options for emergency warming/cooling centres to be available for all community members in need. Discussions on utilizing 395 Elliott as an emergency centre will be directed to future meetings on re-activating a Temporary Winter Shelter at this location as discussed below.

Cemetery Contribution Agreement with Cariboo Regional District Council approved the Cemetery Contribution Agreement with the Cariboo Regional District. This agreement is one of several individual service agreements that will replace the long-standing Memorandum of Understanding that previously covered multiple shared services. More agreements for other services will come forward separately.

Animal Control Services Council talked about the BC SPCA’s upcoming withdrawal of animal shelter services for the City of Quesnel and what that could mean for the City and residents. Council noted that the lack of shelter services is concerning, and there is still some uncertainty around how stray animals can be brought to the BC SPCA, and by whom. Council approved suspending dangerous animal seizures until a suitable facility can be identified to house dangerous animals, staff noted that there have been no instances where this was required the last two decades. Council also approved suspending pound services and the seizure of at-large animals once the BC SPCA ends extensions to the current contract. The current extension with the SPCA ends Aug 31, 2026. Staff will keep exploring options for animal shelter services, including issuing a request for proposals for someone to operate a facility in the community.

2025 Annual Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Report Council received an update on the 2025 Annual Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Report, confirming all routine testing requirements were met. A total of 371 samples were tested for E. coli, with no exceedances, and follow-up testing addressed any total coliform results. The City continues regular maintenance work, including leak detection, reservoir inspections, and water main flushing. A manganese water quality advisory remains in place, and work is ongoing with Northern Health and specialists to reduce levels and support lifting the advisory. The water permit requires the City to have water treatment in place by June 2030. The full report is available at City Hall and on the City of Quesnel website.

2025 Annual Report Council approved the 2025 Annual Report for the period ending December 31, 2025.

Announcements/Events  Billy Barker Days 2026 – 50th Anniversary: July 16th-19th.